Heidelberg Christmas Market, Florence

It seems quite odd to find a typically German Christmas market in the middle of Piazza Santa Croce, where the elaborate black and white church containing the tombs of Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Galileo just couldn't get any more Italian. But it somehow works, providing a really beautiful backdrop for the market, which brings a good selection of German food and gifts to Florence.

It's only open for 15 days, so you'll have to be quick if you want to try some of the Gluehwein, Bratwurst or Lebkuchen that's on sale from the traditional little wooden stalls there. But best of all are the desserts, especially the large range of chocolate covered fruit. There are also stacks of German Christmas decorations and hand-made items to make the perfect gift this Christmas.