Christmas is one of my favorite times to visit Italy, in part because handmade crafts take center stage. At holiday markets across the country, you can locate treasures like glass ornaments, nativity figures, wooden toys, hand-woven woolen goods, and traditional sweets. 

December is also one of the best times of year to buy directly from the artisan. Many artisans who normally toil away in quiet studios open their doors to welcome visitors. Buying directly from the maker is always the best guarantee that you will go home with a high-quality, handmade item at the best possible price. The added bonus of getting to know the maker of your gift, and perhaps even watch it being made, is what authentic travel is all about.