visit rome in christmas

Your guide to spending a magical Christmas in Rome

From christmas markets to traditional festive food..

Picture Rome ’s cityscape in December: twinkling Christmas trees, elaborate Nativity scenes, and vibrant markets tempting you with the sweetest treats. From its historical landmarks and lively piazzas to Baroque-style churches, Rome at Christmas is merry and bright.

The festive season typically begins from December and lasts through New Year’s. Besides April and October, December is one of the busiest times in Rome. Since stores have extended opening hours during this period, shopping takes on a new urgency—whether you’re bargain-hunting or blowing your budget on holiday gifts.

If you’re planning a trip to Rome during this time of year, bundle up and remember to bring an umbrella. The weather in December is usually chilly, with sporadic rain.

Ready to start exploring? Here are our recommendations on the top things to do in Rome during Christmas.

The best Christmas markets in Rome

Soak in the festive vibe at these charming Christmas markets in Rome. Can you smell that nutty aroma of roasted chestnuts? You’ll also find handmade gifts, delicious desserts and vin brulé—a locally-produced hot mulled wine.

Christmas market and carousel at the Piazza Navona in Rome

Piazza Navona Christmas market

When: December 1, 2023–January 6, 2024

The Christmas market at Piazza Navona , known for its three fountains, is a hive of activity this time of year. The Christmas market offers knick-knacks, unique gifts ( befana witch dolls, anyone?) and antiques. The whimsical carousel, carnival games and roving street performers amp up the festive vibe. Go there in the evening when everything is beautifully illuminated.

Christmas market at The Auditorium

When: December 2, 2023–January 6, 2024

The Auditorium is a modern-day version of the legendary Colosseum. Open from noon until 8 p.m., this Christmas market has over 20 food booths and stalls brimming with local artisanal products. Keep your eyes peeled for authentic Italian cakes and sweet treats. One of Rome’s popular ice-skating rinks is also nearby, so you can glide your afternoon away while live Christmas concerts play on in the background.

Piazza Mazzini Christmas market

When: December 8, 2023–December 24, 2023

If you’re looking for festive vibes without the crowds, swing by Piazza Mazzini . It runs as a flea market all year round but transforms into a bustling festive market during the holidays. Spanning around 89 stalls, this Christmas market in Rome sells toys, arts and crafts, lavish decorations and antique collectibles. If you have a sweet tooth, their delightful (read: sinful) Italian candy is one of the most sought-after in town. Start your day when the market opens at 9 a.m. and embrace a more traditional version of Rome at Christmas.

Traditional Christmas food in Rome

Fresh mussels and seafood with spaghetti in a restaurant in Rome.

In line with Christmas traditions in Rome, what’s a festival without a feast? This is your chance to eat like a Roman at Christmas.

Meat is not usually part of the Christmas Eve spread but there’s plenty of seafood. Visit Ristorante Tema and enjoy heaping plates of fish and shellfish. Pro-tip: try the famous baccalà, a classic Italian salted cod. Or check out La Torricella , a long-standing trattoria known for its fish specials.

On Christmas Day, start with a celebratory spread of antipasti and tortellini soup. Then, tuck into abbacchio (lamb cooked with garlic and served with potatoes) and stufato di coniglio (rabbit stew). Of course, pasta is a staple here. Savor Christmas specialties like gnocchi alla Romana, lasagne bolognese and ravioli.

Many restaurants in Rome are not open on Christmas Day, so check restaurant websites before you head out. Flavio Velavevodetto , in the Testaccio neighborhood, keeps their doors open throughout the festive period, so head there to sample their traditional holiday menu (booking required). For something a little special, splurge on a fine dining experience at Pipero Roma or Michelin-starred Metamorfosi Restaurant .

Italians love their desserts so take this chance to sample all-time favorites like Italian cookies, pangiallo (yellow bread) and torrone (nut-filled nougat). Don’t leave Rome without trying the classic Italian Christmas panettone (cake-filled candied fruit) and bombardino (Italian eggnog). You’ll find them at many supermarkets but if you want the gourmet versions, pop by Scutellà Pastry Shop or Giuliani . Rome at Christmas is pretty sweet.

Things to do in Rome on Christmas Day

A man silhouette walking next to Trevi Fountain in Rome

Rome at Christmas is a family affair and all about Christmas traditions. The streets empty out on Christmas Day as many locals gather at home with their loved ones.

If the plan was to museum-hop, avoid doing it on Christmas Day. Major tourist attractions like the Colosseum , Vatican Museums , Borghese Galleries , Palatine Hill and Roman Forum are shut on December 25. The majority of shops and malls are also shut. But if your trip extends until January, expect some solid winter sales to justify your spending.

Public transportation operates on a reduced timetable on Christmas Day. It’s best to remain within walking distance of places you wish to see.

Here are some things to do in Rome on Christmas Day:

Toss a coin at the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is an iconic landmark and one of the most celebrated fountains in the world. The Baroque-style marble sculptures and tumbling pools are the perfect backdrops for your next Instagram shot. Do the ritual coin toss to ensure a return to Rome. No admission fee.

Shop at Sempre Natale

Specializing in handmade artisanal ornaments, Sempre Natale (which means “Christmas Always”) is open all year round. The store is just a stone’s throw away from The Pantheon . If you’re looking for a souvenir or meaningful gift to take home, there’s a whole range to choose from: gorgeous tree toppers, hand-painted glass orbs and even those resembling desserts like the cannoli.

See the glorious Vatican Christmas Tree

There’s no better way to take in the holiday feels than to be right next to the Vatican Christmas Tree in St Peter’s Square . Aglow with hundreds of fairy lights, this 28-meter-high spectacle will leave you in awe. Stroll around the square and soak in the magical views of Rome at Christmas.

Join a Christmas walking tour

Wander through Rome—from your starting point at the Spanish Steps —with a local guide on a Christmas walking tour and spot some of the city’s best holiday displays.

Visit Rome’s churches at Christmas

With over 900 churches dotting the city, you’ll have to pick a handful to get a sampling of the majestic domes, glittering mosaics, splendid artwork and maybe even Christmas mass. Our recommendations? Santa Prassede for the best mosaics, Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo for masterpieces by the likes of Caravaggio and Bernini, and Santa Maria della Vittoria for its stunning “Ecstasy of St Teresa”.

Recommended tours and activities

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How to see the best of Rome at Christmas

Learn more about celebrating Christmas in Rome. A truly a magical time, as the city transforms into a festive wonderland.

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Unsure what to do for your Christmas in Rome Trip? Here are a few Christmas Day Tours we highly recommend for you!

Celebrate Christmas in Rome – Small Group Walking Tour Christmas Eve Aperitivo and Mass at St Peter’s Basilica Rome’s Festive Sights And Christmas Lights Special Tour December 25th with Papal Blessing

Christmas in Rome is truly a magical time, as the city transforms into a festive wonderland.

Rome, the capital of Italy, embraces its rich history and cultural heritage during the holiday season, showcasing a marvellous fusion of age-old traditions and contemporary celebrations. Visitors and locals alike can experience a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of Italian Christmas spirit.

The Eternal City adorns itself with mesmerising lights and decorations, adding a sparkle to its picturesque streets and historic monuments. One of the must-visit locations during Christmas in Rome is the Piazza Navona Christmas Market, featuring a delightful array of gifts, antiques, and festive entertainment. A wide range of activities, including exploring nativity scenes, visiting baroque churches, and indulging in panettone, await those seeking a memorable experience of Italian customs during the holiday season.

Whether it’s attending a traditional midnight mass or simply strolling through Rome’s enchanting piazzas and cobblestone streets, there is a myriad of opportunities to bask in Italy’s Christmas charm. With a variety of events, sights, and traditions to immerse in, spending Christmas in Rome truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to revel in the joyous spirit of the season.

Historic Significance of Christmas in Rome

The celebration of Christmas in Rome has deep-rooted connections to the city’s rich history and religious heritage. It goes beyond present day festivities and holds a historic significance surrounding the birth of Christianity and the inception of Nativity Scenes.

Due to its status as the centre of the Catholic world, Rome offers an unparalleled experience for celebrating Christmas, as events unfold in prominent landmarks like Vatican City . The city’s numerous Nativity Scenes, known as Presepi in Italian, have their origins traced back to Francis of Assisi.

Francis of Assisi is renowned for having created the first Nativity Scene in 1223, marking a significant turning point in the history of Christmas celebrations. Over time, the tradition of staging elaborate Nativity Scenes spread throughout Italy, and Rome became a central hub for this iconic part of the Christmas celebration. Today, the city hosts a remarkable variety of Nativity Scenes – from small traditional displays to expansive modern installations.

One of the most sought-after Nativity Scenes in Rome is located in St. Peter’s Square, within the Vatican City. This magnificent display becomes the centerpiece during Christmas celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors who witness the beauty and intricacies of the carefully crafted Nativity Scene.

Another notable site to visit during the Christmas season is the Castel Sant’Angelo , which features unique holiday decorations, a stunning backdrop, and festive events that encapsulate the essence of Rome’s Christmas celebrations.

As you chart a journey through Rome’s past and admire its architectural marvels – from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum , and the Palatine Hill – the historic significance of Christmas in Rome becomes unmistakable. The customs, landmarks and experiences surrounding the festive season create a captivating atmosphere that echoes the spirit of ancient Rome and reminds us of the city’s unparalleled heritage in the evolution of Christmas celebrations.

Festive Attractions

During the Christmas season, Rome transforms into a magical city filled with holiday spirit. One of the most iconic festive attractions is the Piazza Navona Christmas Market. Here, visitors can indulge in seasonal treats, shop for handmade crafts, and admire the enchanting atmosphere.

A visit to the Vatican is a must, especially during Christmas. The beautifully decorated Vatican Christmas tree and nativity scene are awe-inspiring sights. Additionally, attending a midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, led by the Pope himself, is a memorable and unique experience.

The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon also embrace the festive season with special events and illuminated decorations, making them even more breathtaking during this time of the year.

Another beloved tradition is tossing a coin and making a wish at the Trevi Fountain . With its stunning Baroque architecture and cascading water, the fountain becomes even more magical with Christmas lights surrounding it.

Apart from the most famous attractions, visitors should not miss exploring the cobbled streets of Rome. Wander through charming neighbourhoods like Trastevere to discover hidden gems, traditional markets, and local festivities. Don’t forget to sample some traditional Italian holiday treats, such as panettone or torrone, at one of the many restaurants and cafés found throughout the city.

In conclusion, Rome’s timeless allure is enhanced by Christmas celebrations and decorations. From famous landmarks to enchanting neighbourhoods, the Eternal City offers countless festive attractions for visitors to create cherished memories during the holiday season.

Food and Traditions

Christmas in Rome is a time filled with flavourful dishes and age-old customs. The city’s vibrant food culture can be experienced in places such as Rome’s lively Campo De’ Fiori Market , where one can find fresh local ingredients to try traditional Christmas recipes.

Panettone and Pandoro are two staple Christmas desserts in Rome. Panettone is a tall, domed sweet bread filled with dried fruits and candied citrus, while Pandoro is a star-shaped cake dusted with vanilla-scented icing sugar. Both cakes are made with a similar leavened dough, but their flavours and shapes are distinctive.

Tomato-Braised Baccala with Olives and Polenta

A widely enjoyed savoury Christmas dish in Rome is Baccalà, which is salted cod. This festive favourite can be prepared in various ways, such as fried or baked, and is often paired with seasonal vegetables. Baccalà represents a blend of Italian culinary traditions and flavours.

Baccalà: Salted cod prepared in various styles
Pasta con le Sarde: Pasta with sardines, raisins, and fennel
Trenette al Pesto: Pasta served with a basil and pine nut sauce

Pasta con le Sarde (Sicilian Pasta with Sardines)

Christmas Eve is especially significant for Italians because they abstain from eating meat. Instead, they feast on a variety of fish dishes, pasta, and vegetables. One popular dish is Pasta con le Sarde, a Sicilian pasta dish often eaten around Christmas. It combines sardines, raisins, and fennel for a mix of sweet and savoury flavours. Another pasta dish enjoyed during Christmas time is Trenette al Pesto, a traditional Genoese pasta served with a basil and pine nut sauce.

In conclusion, Rome’s Christmas food and traditions are a delightful mix of flavours, textures, and customs that reflect the city’s rich history and culinary expertise. Whether trying Panettone and Pandoro or feasting on Baccalà and pasta, there is a dish for everyone to enjoy during the festive season in Rome.

Activities and Events

Rome, being a popular destination for the Christmas season, has an array of events and activities lined up for the festive period. One of the highly anticipated events is the lighting of the Vatican’s official Christmas tree which usually takes place early in December. The tree, often a symbol of unity and joy, is adorned with vibrant ornaments and gleaming Christmas lights, making it an excellent spot for memorable photographs.

If you’re a fan of Nativity scenes, Rome has just the right event for you: the 100 Presepi exhibition. Founded 45 years ago, it showcases a fantastic variety of nativity scenes, also known as presepi , from all over Italy and other nations. The collection comprises intricate, handcrafted traditional presepi as well as more modern interpretations, thus offering a blend of culture and creativity to its visitors.

During the Christmas season, Rome’s streets and squares transform into bustling festive marketplaces that offer a truly magical experience. The Piazza Navona Christmas Market is one of the most popular, attracting tourists and locals alike. With over 100 stalls, it offers an array of artisanal goodies, ornaments, and handmade gifts, reflecting the tapestry of traditions that Rome is renowned for.

If you want to know more about Rome’s Traditions, make sure to check out our article about Festivals in Rome: A Tapestry of Traditions .

One should not miss the chance to enjoy the mesmerising displays of Christmas lights that illuminate the city. Rome’s streets and iconic spots such as the historic Piazza Venezia and Via Del Corso come alive with vibrant light installations, which are guaranteed to leave you feeling enchanted and full of festive cheer.

Travel Considerations

When planning a Christmas trip to Rome, there are several aspects to consider for a delightful experience. First and foremost, anticipate the weather in Rome during Christmas. The city experiences mild winters with average temperatures around 8°C to 13°C. It is essential to pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes for outdoor excursions.

Considering the high season during Christmas, booking hotels well in advance is advised. The weeks between the 8th of December and the 6th of January tend to be busy, so secure your accommodation early to avoid disappointment. Moreover, make reservations for special events such as Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas lunch and dinner, and New Year’s Eve dinner.

When exploring the Eternal City, public transport is a convenient option. Rome’s metro system, buses, and trams provide excellent connectivity and are an economical choice for getting around. However, keep in mind that public transport schedules may change during the festive season, an aspect to keep in mind when planning your itinerary.

A visit to Rome during Christmas must include a trip to the iconic Capitoline Hill . This exceptional destination blends antiquity and the Renaissance, offering breathtaking views and fascinating architecture.

Lastly, be mindful of sustainable travel practices during your visit to Rome. Adopt eco-friendly habits such as using reusable bags, conserving water, and supporting local businesses, to help foster responsible tourism and protect the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visiting Rome In December, The Full Scoop & What To Do

What’s it like to visit Rome in December? Sublime, if you can handle a few crowds.

In December, Rome is particularly magical. It’s like a month long festival.

The city sparkles under a canopy of festive lights, with streets and squares like Via del Corso and Piazza Navona illuminated in holiday splendor.

There are grand trees and lighting ceremonies in the main squares. Cafes and restaurants are dressed up in lights and decorations.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know for a December visit and give you tips on what to see and do. I’ll cover everything from weather to crowds to Christmas trees.

admiring the Christmas tree on the Spanish Steps

Rome In December: What To Do

Christmas decorations & events.

December 8th marks the official start of Italy’s festive holiday season. The day is called L’Immacolata , the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Rome transforms into Christmas wonderland, with decorations and lighting blanketing the city. There are towering Christmas trees and tiny alleyways strung with lights and stars.

Christmas is a national holiday in Italy, so many businesses and schools are closed, so people can participate in religious services.

I was in Rome recently from December 5 to 14. The number of tourists exploded after December 8.

A good way to see the lights and decorations is to take a Christmas walking tour or, even more fun, a Christmas vespa tour .

Christmas Trees

Though Christmas trees originated in Germany, Rome embraced the tradition in the 20th century.

The presence of a Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square, for instance, is a relatively recent tradition. It began in 1982 under Pope John Paul II.

You’ll find Christmas trees in all the main squares — St. Peter’s Square, Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Popolo, and Piazza di Spagna. When these trees are lit up in the evening, crowds gather to witness the event.

You’ll also find Christmas trees in some of Rome’s churches, shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants. Most of the trees are fairly traditional. But you’ll also find some modern ones.

Column of the Immaculate Conception

For a really unique Roman experience, you can watch a large Christmas wreath being hung on the Column of the Immaculate Conception. This column is located near the Spanish Steps, in Piazza Mignanelli.

The column was erected in 1857. It features a statue of the Virgin Mary atop an ancient Roman column.

The annual ceremony of adorning the statue with a floral wreath is a significant event in Rome, taking place on December 8th.

The Pope traditionally honors this day with a visit to to lay a wreath and pray before the statue of the Virgin Mary. Then, the Fire Brigade of Rome uses a ladder to reach the statue and place the wreath, as a large crowd watches the ceremony.

Christmas Markets

Rome is not particulary known for its Christmas markets.

Still, starting around the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Christmas markets pop up in various piazzas across Rome.

These markets sell a variety of goods, from holiday decorations and artisan crafts to seasonal treats and gifts.

The main Christmas market is in Piazza Navona . With its Baroque architecture and Bernini fountains, it’s one of the world’s most beautiful squares.

The market lasts from late November or early December until January 6th. Hundreds of stalls pop up selling Christmas goodies, knickknacks, and treats.

There are carnival games to play. And a carousel for children.

Nativity Scenes

During December, Rome goes big on nativity scenes, called presepi . They’re a significant feature of Rome’s Christmas celebrations.

I felt like every church I visited in Rome had an elaborate Christmas nativity scene. They keep them closely under guard until they are unveiled on December 8.

It’s quite a process. In each church I visited before the big day, parts of the churches were closed down and I saw many workers toiling away to construct the nativity scenes.

The largest one, in St. Peter’s Basilica , is life size.

Christmas Mass

If you would like to attend a Roman Christmas mass, I recommend trying to attend the service at Santa Maria Maggiore , a beautiful basilica in the Monti neighborhood.

You could also try Santa Maria in Aracoeli on Capitoline Hill. This beautiful church is famous for the wooden statue of Santo Bambino (Holy Child). On Christmas Eve candles are illuminated on the 124 steps leading up the church.

And St. John Latern is a good option. It’s slightly off center and not as visited as the more famous churches.

It’s worth a visit to the complex during the day as well. You can admire Baroque statues in the nave, visit the evocative cloister, and climb the Holy Stairs .

street musicians playing on Via dei Fori Imperiali

Attend A Classical Museum Concert

In Rome, the sounds of Christmas are just as integral to the festive season as the decorations themselves. To see what concerts are on, you can check the official church websites or ask at the tourist offices.

Many of Rome’s churches, even the lesser known hidden gems, host live classical concerts. You can hear music by Vivaldi, Handel, Bach, Puccini, Beethoven, and Mozart.

In particular, you should also check out what’s playing at the Pantheon . This perfect building boasts outstanding acoustics.

You could also attend a Baroque a cappella concert at the Capuchin Crypt . Along with music, you can tour the skeletal remains of 3,000 Capuchin friars.

Don’t feel like paying for a concert? There’s usually live music in the evenings on Via dei Fori Imperiali.

See The Pope

During the Christmas season, the Pope makes several traditional appearances in St. Peter’s Square.

First, he often participates in the lighting of the Christmas tree and unveiling of the Nativity scene on December 8.

On Christmas Eve, the Pope leads the Midnight Mass inside St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s the ultimate ritual for religious Romans. Unfortunately, it’s by invitation only or you can book a ticket (at great expense).

On December 25, the pope delivers the Urbi et Orbi (“to the city and to the world”) blessing from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. This event is one of the most significant during the Christmas season, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors to St. Peter’s Square.

You could also attend a papal audience in the Aula Paolo VI audience hall. They are held every Wednesday in December at 10:30 am when the Pope is in Rome.

These general audiences are a chance for pilgrims and visitors from around the world to see the pope. You can hear the papal address, receive his blessing, and sometimes have the opportunity for a personal greeting.

The tricky part is getting tickets. You can order tickets by mail or fax from the V atican website . You download the form and mail it in.

It’s advisable to request tickets as early as possible due to high demand. Even with a ticket, seating is generally on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended.

Weather & What To Wear

Figuring out what to wear in Rome win December can be a bit tricky. The temperatures can range from 30-60 degrees in a single day, coldest at night.

In my experience, Rome is often clear and sunny in December, and not terribly cold.

This is in stark contrast to Paris in winter, where you be wrapped in grayness most of the time. Nonetheless, you will still get some gray days and a splattering of rain here and there.

So, I would be prepare by bringing layers. Avoid a heavy coat, which could make you too hot during the day.

Bring a hat, scarf, and gloves that you can take on and off. And throw an umbrella into a small backpack.

Seasonal Food Specialties

Rome in December has a special focus on sweets.

The Italian Christmas cake is panettone . It’s a tall, soft, dome-shaped cake filled with candied fruits, chocolate, and/or raisins.

You can also try panettone gastronomico . This is a savory version of the sweet panettone, filled with various ingredients such as mayonnaise, smoked salmon, and other savory fillings. It’s often served as an appetizer during the holiday feasts.

One of my favorites treats — artichokes — is also in season in Rome in December. They are served in dishes like such as carciofi alla romana (Roman-style artichokes), carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes), and fettuccine con agnello e carciofi (lamb and artichokes).

Cotechino con lenticchie is a traditional Italian dish that’s especially popular inn late December and New Years. It consists of cotechino, a type of slow-cooked, spiced Italian sausage made from pork, and lenticchie , which are lentils.

Lentils are a symbol of good luck in Italy. This belief stems from the lentils’ round shape, which is reminiscent of coins, suggesting prosperity and wealth for the coming year.

And you can’t help but soak in the smell of roasted chestnuts everywhere on the streets. Chestnuts are also incorporated into cakes and pasta.

You could even take a cooking class indoors. You can bone up on your cooking skills and learn how to make some hearty pasta dishes or one of Rome’s classic quartet — carbonara , cacio e pep e, gricia , and amatriciana .

As in Paris, cafes in Rome are an integral part of daily life.

Often laid-back and casual, Roman cafes can range from traditional bars serving espresso at the counter to quaint spots with outdoor seating in picturesque piazzas.

In December, they are almost all decorated to the hilt with lights and wreaths.

And even in the cold, the Roman are sitting outside. Often, overhead heat lamps keep you warm.

Via dei Condott is Rome’s premier shopping street. It’s home to high-end fashion houses and luxury boutiques.

Brands like Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Bulgari have their flagship stores here. The streets surrounding the Spanish Steps, such as Via Borgognona and Via Frattina, also offer a plethora of luxury shopping options.

Via del Corso is a long and bustling street that runs through the heart of Rome from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia. It’s known for its variety of shops, ranging from affordable fashion brands like Zara to specialty stores.

Plus, the areas around Campo de’ Fiori, Piazza Navona, and the Monti neighborhood have interesting boutiques and specialty shops.

Take A Food Tour

I went on three different food tours when I was in Rome in December: Trastevere , Campo de Fiori and the Jewish Quarter , and Monti .

I loved the first two especially. Your guides will take you to authentic Roman wine bars, cafes, and eateries, not the typical tourist spots.

You’ll have a chance to sample local wine, street food like arancini , many Roman dishes and some holiday specialties.

Visit the City’s Museums

December is a splendid time to visit the city’s museums. Usually, they are less crowded than during high season and you can enjoy the art up close and personal.

The only place this isn’t true is the Vatican Museums and the Borghese Gallery . These two museums are still exceedingly popular.

The Borghese Gallery handles crowd control by only letting a set number of people in every two hours. So, if you book a skip the line ticket well in advance, you can admire some of the best art in Rome.

The Vatican Museums, in contrast, will be swamped with visitors. You will inch down the main corridor, cheek by jowl with other tourists. I don’t recommend it.

But there are excellent museums in Rome that fly under the radar and will be largely empty — Palazzo Massimo , Palazzo Altemps , Doria Pamphilj , Trajan’s Market s , and the Capitoline Museums .

Tip : Museums (and everything else) will be closed on December 24 and 25.

Indoor Attractions

Aside from the museums, there are plenty other attractions where you can escape any chilly weather.

If you’re interested in Roman ruins, you could visit Diocletian’s Baths , the Baths of Caracalla , Domus Aurea , or the House of Augustus on Palatine Hill .

If you’re interested in art and architecture, you can visit some of Rome’s beautiful churches .

Beyond St. Peter’s Basilica, consider visiting the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano, the Basilica of San Clemente, and the Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, which houses three Caravaggio paintings.

The Capuchin Crypt beneath the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini is another option, albeit a bit eerie. The crypt is decorated with the bones of over 4,000 Capuchin monks, arranged in macabre displays of art.

From December 1-8, the crowds in Rome in December are perfectly manageable. When the trees are lit up on December 8 and Christmas festivities begin in earnest, the crowds will be comparable to summer.

Aside from the Colosseum, the indoor attractions won’t have crushing crowds.

But I found it hard to even walk around the Trevi Fountain and down the main shopping street, Via Condotti.

Because December in Rome is so popular, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance. And pre-book skip the line tickets for the Colosseum , Vatican Museums , and the Borghese Gallery .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Rome in December. You may find these other Rome travel guides and resources useful:

8 ways to spend 1 day in Rome
2 day itinerary for Rome
3 day itinerary for Rome
4 day itinerary for Rome
5 day itinerary for Rome
Hidden gems in Rome
Best museums in Rome
Archaeological sites in Rome
Guide to Palatine Hill
Guide to the Roman Forum
Walking tour of central Rome

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The Complete Guide To Spending Christmas in Rome: Look No Further!

Brandon Shaw Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Christmas in Italy is all about the light shows, religious traditions, and decadent shopping. The Eternal City is the best city to experience that Italian festive flare. After all, Rome is an important city to the Christian faith, so Christmas is an iconic time to visit the city. If you want to “do as the Romans do,” we’ve listed everything you need to know about spending Christmas in Rome .

Pro Tip: Planning a holiday trip to Rome? Bookmark this post in a “Rome Christmas” folder so you can easily find it. See our comprehensive guide to Rome for more planning resources and our curated list of Rome Christmas tours for a memorable trip. We also have a great post about spending Christmas in Florence if you’re heading there too!

How To Spend Christmas in Rome

Rome is an important city to the Christian faith, so it makes sense that you’d be interested in spending this special time of the year in the Italian capital. Rome is a breathtakingly beautiful city to visit at any time of year, and Christmas in Rome has a particular magical element that puts the city on a whole new level.

The Eternal City becomes a charming haven with streets lined with lights and decorations adorning all the top sites. Restaurants are decked out and filled with locals looking to get into the festive mood. Nativity scenes and Christmas trees can be found throughout the city too.

You may, however, be wondering what there is to do at Christmas in Rome and how best to enjoy it. In this guide, find out everything you need to know about how to spend a wonderful Christmas in Rome. Here’s what we’ll cover:

Planning ahead for Christmas in Rome
What is Rome like at Christmas?
Worship events on Christmas Eve
Nativity scenes
Christmas markets
Christmas concerts
Traditional Christmas food in Rome
Things to do on New Year’s Eve

Not ready to book a tour? See if Rome tours are worth it .

Planning Ahead for Christmas in Rome

Here’s an important tip upfront: If you’re planning on spending Christmas in Rome, book everything in advance! Christmas through New Year’s is the high season. Everything is open and everything books up months in advance. From December 24th until January 5th, you’re looking at the same number of visitors as the summer, so be prepared for high season rates and book ahead.

Restaurants

If you’re planning to eat out at special places or want an authentic Roman cuisine experience in the top places to eat, check out our list of the best restaurants in Rome by attraction and reserve in advance.

Hotels and Accommodation

Expect to pay the same rates as the high summer season in Rome and definitely book in advance. If you’re shopping for a particular room type or adjoining rooms, consider booking three or more months out. For more information on the best hotels and where to stay, take a look at our articles on Rome accommodations:

Where to stay in Rome by neighborhood
Best hotels in Rome
Best family-friendly hotels in Rome
Rome hotels with rooftop terraces and bars

Tours and Activities

Similar to hotels and restaurants, the best tours at Christmas sell out quickly. You’re definitely going to want to visit at least the Colosseum and the Vatican while you’re in Rome.

Not only will visiting with a guide elevate your experience and make it much more memorable, but you’ll also get skip-the-line access to most attractions that generally have very long lines to get in.

It’s worth considering because standing in long queues in winter is not going to be particularly fun. Explore our curated list of holiday Vatican and Colosseum tours as well as the rest of our Rome tours—we have options to suit different travelers and schedules.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our best Rome tours to take and why .

What Is Rome Like at Christmas?

The week leading up to Christmas will be quieter with fewer tourists in town. I would say things really start picking up from December 26th through the New Year. This makes sense because many tourists will enjoy Christmas with their families in their hometowns throughout the world and then venture to the Eternal City for the New Year.

So, surprisingly for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, you won’t find nearly as many people as you’ll see just a few days later. From the 26th, the crowds really start to pick up and, of course, culminate over New Year’s.

The ambiance in Rome is magical though. You’ll find lit-up Christmas trees throughout the main piazzas, Christmas markets, and beautiful nativities or presepi on display. The weather is also milder than you think, though you’ll definitely need a jacket.

Worship Events on Christmas Eve in Rome

Saint Peter Basilica in Rome at Christmas

Christmas Eve Mass at the Vatican is the most popular place for worship. If you’d like to book a seat inside St. Peter’s Basilica, you must book far in advance. These tickets are very hard to come by. However, you’ll get to sit (or stand) with people from all over the world coming together to watch the pope.

You can also return to St. Peter’s on Christmas day at noon when the pope gives his Christmas Day Urbi et Orbi speech and blesses the crowd. He only does this on Christmas and Easter, so expect large crowds. Looking for fewer people? Head to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore , one of the oldest churches in Rome.

A giant Christmas tree accompanies the huge nativity scene in front of St Peter’s. Both are in the middle of St. Peter’s Square and are available for public viewing without security. To see the tree light up, get to St. Peter’s Square before sunset to secure a viewing spot. The tree is illuminated shortly after sunset.

Nativity Scenes ( Presepi )

Few things describe Italy at Christmas better than nativity scenes or presepi . It’s said that in 1223, St. Francis of Assisi created the first nativity scene, and since then, the tradition has remained strong. St Francis was a medieval monk who was a humanist, environmentalist, and master teacher of Bible lessons. Since most of the population was illiterate during this time, he was permitted by the Pope to physically build the story of the birth of Jesus with clever props.

St. Francis included the elements from all of the gospel stories and used live animals to build his manger in a cave about 100 km north of Rome. This creative storytelling helped local people connect with the story of the Nativity and the Christmas message in a vivid way. Even miracles were associated with the first manger scene built by St Francis.

To better understand the birth of Christ, the manger is in an area local Italians would recognize rather than traditional Bethlehem. Some 800 years later, these teaching tools about the first Christmas can be seen all over Rome. They are often placed in local villages or piazzas in Italy, just as St. Francis did.

You’ll see presepi in every church around the holidays, as well as most shop and bakery window displays. For an impressive, life-size display, head to St. Peter’s Square next to the Christmas tree.

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Rome in a Day Tour with Colosseum and Vatican Museums

Our “in a day” tour is best way to get your bearings all in one day. Visit the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and more with a licensed, fun English-speaking tour guide. They’ll add tons of insights and make the entire experience so much more memorable. Also, you’ll get a feel for the city, so it’s a great option on one of your first days in Rome. Bring your walking shoes and water bottle!

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Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable, English-speaking guide who will bring the museum to life with stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and even tragedy! This tour has start times throughout the day so you can choose when to visit based on your schedule!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Rome tours are worth it .

Christmas Markets

Via del Corso is fun to see for the never-ending Christmas lights, but there’s more to explore! Streets vendors will line the busy squares, like Piazza Navona and Campo de’ Fiori, where you can buy unique handcrafted gifts.

One of the most popular Christmas Markets in Rome is in the iconic Piazza Navona. It’s also known as the Befana Christmas Market and opens the first week of December and ends January 6. It’s not as full of vendors as it used to be, but you can still find treats and treasures.

Other Markets to check out are in the Borghese Gardens and Campo Dei Fiori. The Mercato Monti is another great market that Romans flock to around the holidays. If you’re looking for a special event, head to Wave Market at Lanificio . Think vintage and handcrafted accessories, jewelry, clothes, and even funky and trendy home decor.

Streets vendors will line the busy squares, and the best place to keep yourself warm is next to the guy roasting chestnuts. The festive surroundings, aroma, and popping sound of the chestnuts mean that Christmas is around the corner.

Christmas Concerts and Lights

Listening to classical music by local musicians in some of the most beautiful churches in the world is an unforgettable experience to have in Rome at Christmas. The main churches that put on concerts every year are Chiesa di Sant’Antonio dei Portoghesi , Santa Maria ai Monti , and Sant’Ignazio .

Check out the Conciliazione Auditorium near the Vatican for their schedule of holiday concerts. It’s not uncommon for school groups or adult choirs to casually gather in Piazza Navona. You may not find signs or schedules, but while wandering around the city, you’re bound to stumble upon a surprise concert!

And after your concert, be sure to stroll through the city’s top streets for amazing light displays. The theme this year for the holiday lights along Via Del Corso is Hope. The beautiful light display stretches from Piazza Venezia down to Piazza del Popolo, the entire length of Via Del Corso.

A good walking route to get into the holiday spirit is to start in Piazza Venezia to check out their giant Christmas tree, then head down Via del Corso to the Christmas Market in Piazza del Popolo. If you can’t make it all the way down to Piazza del Popolo, you can always turn up Via Condotti, where you can end at the Spanish Steps where a small Christmas market is sometimes located.

Traditional Christmas Food in Rome

It’s not difficult to find local Roman hotspots offering special menus around the holiday season. There’s a misconception around town that everything shuts down at Christmas. That’s actually false!

Skip the tourist traps and go for one of these locally approved restaurants in Rome that serve traditional Roman food. The different traditional Italian Christmas foods vary depending on the day of the celebrations. Christmas Eve is all about the fish in Italy, while Christmas Day traditionally starts with a tortellini soup followed by meat.

Other dishes are also worth trying for an authentic flavor. Broccolini is everywhere in Rome during the winter and very difficult to find outside of the season. Puntarelle is my favorite Roman vegetable dish and only seasonal. It is chicory, typically sliced thin, dressed like a salad with olive oil and vinegar, and topped with anchovies.

Panetone is ubiquitous all over Italy at Christmas, and you will find towers of boxed Panetone in every grocery store in Rome. The soft round Italian fruitcake is always a perennial favorite.

I Pizzicaroli offers a fondunta (Italian fondue) made of cheese from northern Italy. Trust me, this warm, cheesy goodness hits the spot on a cold winter day in Rome.

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This our most popular and longest-running Vatican tour to date. It enters the Vatican City & Museums an hour before the public opening and visits the Sistine Chapel as it opens. Admissions are included and our English-speaking guides do a wonderful job bringing the museums to life! Admissions included.

Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel & St. Peter’s Basilica

One of our most popular Vatican tours since it is such an amazing value. Skip the line to get inside with a super-knowledgeable English-speaking guide that will bring the museum to life. Stories of the artists, popes, conspiracy, love, and of course tragedy! Admissions included.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Vatican tour is worth it .

Things To Do in Rome on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

If you extend your vacation to New Year’s Eve, Rome won’t disappoint in terms of entertainment! The tradition in Italy is to have a special New Year’s dinner called cenone . For this reason, many restaurants will offer special menus and rates. It’s best to call and book your favorite culinary experience in advance.

After dinner and some drinks, Romans usually go out to watch fireworks at midnight. The main city-sponsored public event on New Year’s Eve will be a show at Circus Maximus starting at 9:30 pm. The Catalan dance company “La Fura dels Baus” will perform dance and circus shows. After midnight, welcome the new year with a live DJ set.

New Year’s Day Activities

January 1st is a Catholic holiday called Solemnity of Mary. On this day, you can attend the Angelus at noon in St. Peter’s Square. Most shops, restaurants, and sites will be closed on New Year’s Day. However, there are some musical performances that you’ll be able to attend.

Check out the official Rome tourism site for the most up-to-date information for your New Year’s Eve plans.

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Reader Interactions

Comments (2).

August 16, 2020

Hi Roman Guy,

We love reading your blogs and watching you on YouTube.

We will be returning to Rome for the 4th time and hope we can do it arriving Christmas morning from the UK. Which restaurant can we book a Christmas meal at? Will Conad be open from the 26th?

Thank you so much

August 19, 2020

Hi Megan! Conad will be closed on the 25th and Jan 1st. As for open restaurants on Christmas and Christmas Eve, you are going to have your best luck with hotel restaurants. I found this article, in Italian, with a list of restaurants from 2018 and they are all hotels. https://www.romatoday.it/eventi/de-magna-e-beve/vigilia-natale-ristoranti-roma.html I will put it on my list to publish something in English that is more up to date sometime in December and comment it back here. Thanks!

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December 16, 2023

Christmas in Rome: 11 things to do and places to go

Overview article of things to do and to visit during Christmas in Rome this year (2023).

Rome is Christmas town par excellence. With all the baroque churches, nativity scenes, the highest Christmas tree contest and luxury (decorated) shops, Rome belongs to Christmas.

How is Christmas celebrated in Rome?

At first glance, Christmas is not celebrated so differently than in other (Western) countries. Nevertheless, there are differences.

The Advent Calendar is a more typical custom in Germany, yet the Advent calendar is also becoming more and more popular in Rome. The calendar counts down the Advent period (which is the four weeks before Christmas). Advent starts in 2022 on December 3 and ends on December 24.

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All kinds of brands and companies now have the advent calendar in their portfolio (most start at December 1). It used to have a religious function without any presents attached, then the calendar became the tiffany’s of chocolate providers. Nowadays, the cosmetics industry has also discovered the advent calendar, such as Armani and Kiko.

Christmas tree and nativity scene at home

The Christmas tree is also an integral part of Italian Christmas celebrations. But beware. the tree may not be put upwards until December 8. Not that you will be arrested by a kind of Christmas tree police, but that’s tradition. First, the important Catholic feast of Mary Immaculate Conception must be behind us, which falls precisely on December 8.

The nativity scene is very Italian. Many families build a small version at home, on the same day that the Christmas tree is put up. Many stores, like construction store Leroy Merlin, have a separate section that sell objects and figurines for the nativity scene.

Also read: our article on 15 free things to do in Rome

Christmas Eve

For those who don’t know, Christ was born on December 24, and in a country with a strong Catholic tradition, that fact is also celebrated, and it’s not just about food and gifts. Traditionally, people go to church on Christmas Eve although not everyone adheres to that custom anymore due to secularization. On this evening the Christ child is placed in the manger of the nativity scene (at home or/ and in the church), a tradition entirely made in Italy.

Christmas Eve is thus a typical family evening. Most families or groups of friends then have their pack night.

Dinner at home is ‘lean’ and according to tradition contains no meat . It is fish that is on the table. Take the Italian state president. From his kitchen in 2020 came risotto alla pescatora (fisherman’s risotto) and fried fish, the presidential master of ceremonies stated.

Ideas for Christmas home cooking can be found on one of the most important Italian cooking site s (also in English).

Of course, on December 24, and throughout the Christmas season, there is the panettone and the pandoro on the table. It is also the typical ánd clichéd Christmas gift from employers to their employees. You can get pannetone or pandoro from 3 euros in the supermarket, but really good ones have a cost of about 40 euros each (1 kilo).

Also very traditional is to play at home a board game that is similar to bingo, which in Italy is called tombola . Often it is not about winning money, but awards in kind. Especially a must is playing the Neapolitan version, where each of the 90 numbers has a meaning.

Important to note : Very few people go out to eat on this night. It is not easy as a tourist to get a restaurant booked.

Christmas Day

Is the evening of December 24 typically spent at home, on the 25th is the day to have dinner out. The key is to make reservations in advance . This can of course be done by simply calling, with the disadvantage that there may be a language problem (many Italians don’t speak English). Of course you may use booking sites. Some restaurant have online options. One is our favorite, a beautiful botanical garden restaurant with original fusion cuisine: Le Serre . You do have to take the car (or bus 913 or 990) for it.

Some restaurants do not accept reservations. In that case, it’s waiting at the door, a pretty authentic Roman experience. But especially at Christmas, a fair number of restaurants offer (quite expensive) menus for a fixed price.

Christmas in Rome Campo Fiori cozy street

Many Italians consider the luncheon on Christmas Day to be the most important gathering during this period.

Also read: the 4 best travel guides for Rome according us

St. Stephen’s Day

The day after Christmas Day is named after Stephen, an early christian saint. The classic activity is shopping and at the end of the day going to the movies with the whole family. Italy has a great tradition of cinepanettone or Christmas movies, i.e. highly successful films characterized by a simple script not sparing benalities and ambiguities.

If you are not in Rome, but still want to experience Christmas in Rome, it is a good idea to watch the (American) movie ‘Christmas in Rome’ from your own couch. It is certainly not a masterpiece, but still a nice way to get in the mood.

What to visit during Christmas in Rome?

Christmas tree s.

Every year it is a competition who has the most beautiful and tallest: the municipality of Rome or the ‘municipality’ of the Vatican?

The 2017 contest was unforgettable. The municipal Christmas tree, a 22-meter tall spruce from the Dolomites was barely in place or the poor thing started losing its needles. Not just a few, it was raining needles. The spruce was already bare in mid-December. The inhabitants of Rome called him ‘Spelacchio’, the bald one or toilet brush.

But the nickname has since become a badge of honor, and the Christmas trees since 2018 have all been called Spelacchio turning the unveiling on December 8 into an event.

The tree traditionally is located in Piazza Venezia. As an exception, the 2023 Christmas tree is festooned in Piazza del Popolo, a mile away from Piazza Venezia. Work will be carried out in that (Venezia) square for the next eight years (!) due to the construction of the underground railway. Presumably, the 2024 tree will also be in Popolo Square.

The Vatican tree, two kilometers further away, is every year invariably 27 meters long and holds its needles. The Vatican Christmas tree in 2023 comes from Macra, a tiny municipality in Piemonte. At the inauguration the Piemonte governor said that the tree is more than 50 years old and would have been cut down anyway for safety reasons.

Piazza del Popolo, as of December 8, 2023 (a 21-metre long tree from Trentino) Saint Peter’s Square, starting December 9, 2023 (until January 7, 2024)

Nativity scene s

Italy is the birthplace of the nativity scene, a typical Catholic tradition. This has to do with its probable introduction by Francis of Assisi, who in 1223 attended Christmas Eve in Greccio (100 km north of Rome) and thought it would be nice to liven up the celebration with “hay between the ox and the donkey”.

Today’s nativity scene consists not only of Jesus, Mary and Josef, and stable attributes, but it also depicts everyday life, trades and people. The most elaborate and original nativity scenes can be found in Naples (Napoli).

But also in Rome you can get away with it. What else can you expect in a city with at least 366 parish churches. Note the sign ‘presepio’ or ‘presepe’. This indicates that there is a nativity scene in the church. Most churches do have one.

We recommend the following churches in the city center:

Santa Maria in Via (near the Trevi Fountain), The nativity scene (from 18 century Naples) is located to the left of the main altar. The church is sometimes referred to as little Lourdes. In the first chapel on the right is a Madonna image and and a small tap, which allows the faithful who request it to drink the water of the ancient well, as this water seems to have produced many miracles. Via del Mortaro 24.
Santa Maria dell’Ara Coeli (next to Capitol Hill). Especially famous for the bambinello , the baby Jesus, that is venerated by the Roman people. The bambinello is carried in procession and shown to the population on January 6 at the top of the steps of the church. Scala dell’Arce Capitolina 12
Santi Cosma e Damiano (near het Forum): a permanent Neapolitan nativity scene of the 18 th century. Via dei Fori Imperiali 1
Road sweepers’ Nativity . The nativity scene of the road sweepers of the municipal waste collection service is an interesting permament exhibition with statues of also Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Via dei Cavalleggeri 5
The nativity scene, set up as usual in St. Peter’s Square , next to the Christmas tree (and obelisk) in 2023 comes comes precisely from Greccio. Of course, this is a coincidence because this year it is exactly 800 years since the nativity scene was ‘invented’ in Greccio. From December 9, 2022 to January 7, 2023
For seven years now, the Vatican has been holding its own nativity show. That is, in a modern space at St. Peter’s Square you can see numerous nativity scenes in a kind of museum arrangement. “ 100 Cribs at the Vatican”, Colonnade of St. Peter’s Square (until January 7, 2024)

Vatican Birth Church Sint Pietro Christmas in Rome Italy

Papal masses

This is the papal agenda of this year:

Christmas Night Mass on 24 December in St. Peter’s Basilica (7.30 PM)
Christmas Day: ‘Urbi et Orbi’ Blessing (12 AM)
New Year’s Eve: Pope Francis will celebrate the First Vespers and the Te Deum in thanksgiving for the past year in St Peter’s Basilica (5 PM)
New Year’s Day (and 56th World Day of Peace): the Pope will preside at Mass in St. Peter’s (10.00 AM)
Epiphany (Jan 6, 2023): Mass will be celebrated in the Vatican Basilica (10 AM)
Baptism of the Lord (Jan 7): Sistine Chapel (Mass and Baptism of some children – access by invitation) (9.30 AM)

Read more from the ‘ papal household ‘ on accessing the pope and getting (free) tickets

Christmas illuminations

Rome is no Paris, but at Christmas and New Year, the town does have a touch of the City of Lights. The traditional Christmas illuminations will be set up in Via del Corso , a 1,500-metre long ‘starry sky’ will be installed.

The most important monuments are also illuminated, as they are every day, and in a generally modest and atmospheric way. Illuminated monuments include the Colosseum, the Trevi fountain and the Angel’s Castle.

Many other shopping streets are beautifully lit, such as the Via Vittorio Veneto. In fact, each shopping street association lights their streets in their own way.

Christmas concerts

Numerous concerts are held in the period around Christmas. Rome is also no Houston (capital of hip-hop), so we are talking mostly about opera and classical music. Not surprising either, in the capital of Roman Catholicism.

Here are a few possibilities:

Kind of early for Christmas: Sunday, December 12 the traditional Christmas Concert of the Choir of the Diocese of Rome will be held in the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran.
The Concert for Peace organised by the Vatican is entering its 30th year. This year’s edition is on December 17 in the concert hall on Via della Conciliazione.
Rome’s famous opera house has daily performances in December of Don Chisciotte (the ballet in three acts from the novel by Miguel de Cervantes).
The Roma Opera Omnia is a well-known performer of all kinds of concerts. They offer good quality and have the best venues in Rome, including ‘Pope Innocence X’ Hall at Palazzo Pamphilj in Piazza Navona. Their concerts are offered by all international internet providers, so you can’t speak of an unpolished diamond. Price is on the high end.
A more accessible (in price) concert for a general audience offers the Rome Opera Concerts group. They perform an evening of a medley of piano, Neapolitan and famous Christmas songs. Concerts on Dec 22, 23, 26, 30 and Jan 2, 5 (2023). The venue is fairly central on Via Venti Settembre 7.

Christmas market

The typical Christmas market with wooden stalls, uncountable lights, Christmas items, glühwein (mulled wine) around the cathedral is a typical European phenomenon that you find mainly in Germany and the Alpine countries. In Italy, Bolzano is the place to be.

Rome also has a Christmas market in the lovely Piazza Navona. There too, wooden stands and Christmas delicacies are on display, there is an old-fashioned shooting gallery and so on. Since a few years (unfortunately) the number of stalls has been greatly reduced. Most ‘stalls’ consist of carnival-style attarctions, such as the shooting gallery.

Don’t forget to buy: an object of the witch Befana (in a similar role to Black Pete or wicked helper of Santaclaus), the sugared apple on a stick and the Roman donut. The market will stand until Jan. 6, 2023.

What to do with kids during Christmas in Rome?

Explora , also known by its ill-named Children’s Museum, offers children from 3 years of age every opportunity to discover the world. Admission four times a day for almost 2 hours (9 euros p.p.): 10, 12, 15 and 17 hours. Open: Thursday through Sunday. Via Flaminia 82 (near Villa Borghese).
In the middle of the city, caring ladies take care of the less fortunate cats . In the ancient remains of a Roman temple, everyone is welcome to see how Micio and Micia (typical Italian cat names) are doing. Largo Torre Argentina, on the side of Via Florida.
Cinnecittà World: theme park around the (Italian) film, named after the famous film studios in Rome. 30 km from Rome’s city center, next to the Outlet Center ‘Castel Romano’ . The park is open during Christmas and New Year’s First Week.

Christmas in Rome Questions

What is the italian word for christmas.

Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus also known as ‘Nativity’. The Italian ‘ Natale ‘ derives from that word.

What is the Italian name for Santa Claus?

Santa Claus is the corrupted word for Saint Nicolas from Bari. In Italian, he is called Babbo Natale (Daddy Christmas).

What desserts do Italians eat at Christmas?

Panettone (a bread of sweet dough with candied fruits and raisins), pandoro (eight-pointed star-shaped plain panettone) and torrone (nougat) are the sweets that Italians eat especially during the Christmas season.

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Christmas in Rome: Your Guide for 2023

Spending Christmas in Rome is an experience like no other. The Italian capital is calmer and less crowded than during the hectic months of the high season. The Christmas lights that illuminate the city’s cobbled streets add a festive sheen to the already stunning historic centre. Best of all there’s the weather, which consists of clear, sunny days and chilly, but never freezing nights.

Rome with Chef has written this guide to help you plan your winter visit to Rome this year. It’s packed full of useful tips and insider recommendations for where to go, what to do, and—most importantly—what to eat. If you want to learn all about Rome’s Christmas traditions and how you should plan your visit, keep reading—you’ve come to the right place.

Table of Contents

Roman Christmas: A History

The ancient Romans didn’t celebrate Christmas; their pagan religion predated the birth of Christianity by some 700 years. Instead they observed the Saturnalia —a seven-day festival held in honour of Saturn, the god of time, abundance and renewal. Starting on December 17th, the Romans would invert their social conventions in imitation of the Golden Age that preceded Saturn’s mythical deposition. Wealthy Romans would hold banquets for their slaves, the streets would fill up with carnivalic celebrations, and the Romans would exchange small gifts – a tradition which has since infused today’s Christmas traditions.

The poet Catullus, who is the author of the saying carpe diem , described the Saturnalia as optimo dierum – “the best of days.”

Spend Christmas in Rome today and you’ll see his description still stands.

Gift-giving thrives in Rome, as it does around the world. But you won’t find any other remnants of the pagan Saturnalia in the homes of the Eternal City. Christmas in Rome today is instead centred around another widepsread religion: Christianity. This is in no small part because of the presence of the Vatican ‘s presence in Rome, which becomes a focal point of festivities between the Day of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th and the Epiphany on January 6th.

Today’s Italian Christmas traditions are very similar to ours, with a few exceptions.

It is not Santa Claus who is tasked with delivering gifts but La Befana , an ugly benevolent witch, and the date of her arrival is January 6th (though modern Italians open their gifts on Christmas Eve). It goes without saying that Food plays a central role in Italian Christmas traditions. Panettone and pandoro are joyfully consumed in considerable amounts from early November onwards while December 24th is seafood-centred in honour of the Feast of the Seven Fishes . So when in Rome at Christmas, save plenty of stomach space so you can sample and savour its myriad of treats.

The Best Things to do in Rome at Christmas

Christmas is the best time to visit Rome for sightseeing as its attractions are far less crowded. The lack of crowds and enthusiasm of the tour guides (whose work is much thinner on the ground than in summer) means you get a more personalised, intimate experience when taking a tour .

But there are plenty of other ways to take advantage of the lack of crowds and mild weather in Rome at Christmas. Here are our top recommendations.

Treat Yourself to a Christmas Cooking Class

Travelling is all about trying new things, immersing yourself in the local culture, and having plenty of fun. This festive spin on our classic cooking class delivers all three! Enjoy the timeless Italian traditions of sipping on traditional cocktails and making delicious homemade pasta. Expect Christmas songs, heaps of tinsel and a whole lot of festive cheer as you master making three traditional cocktails and delicious handmade fettuccine pasta and sauce.

Cycle the Appian Way

Winter is the best time to journey down Rome’s oldest road, the Via Appia Antica . Built at the end of the 4th century BC, the Old Appian Way runs southeast from near the Circus Maximus to the southern city of Brindisi (though you wouldn’t be able to make it this far even if you wanted to, as much of the road remains buried). The Appian Way is lined with tombs, catacombs , and sprawling imperial villas, meaning there’s plenty to explore.

Set off early to make sure you’re not stranded outside after sunset; this 2,000-year-old road isn’t very well-illuminated!

Book your Appia Antica Tour

Visit Rome’s Christmas Markets

While Rome’s historic city hosts several low-key Christmas markets, including a somewhat disappointing market in Piazza Navona , the best ones (and the only ones really worth visiting) are situated on the peripheries: in the north, at Villa Borghese , the Parco della Musica and Piazza della Vittoria , and in the south at Cinecittà.

Every year, Rome’s Auditorium hosts a Christmas festival, consisting of a small artisan Christmas market, an ice rink, and Santa’s Grotto—or ‘official Roman residence’ as you can tell your kids! The dates haven’t been confirmed yet for this year, but going by previous iterations it should run from December 8th until January 6th, from midday until 8pm.

See the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square

You can find nativity scenes ( presepi , as they’re called in Italian) everywhere in Rome during Christmas. Every church has one on display, with the most charming and intricate exhibited within the Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano just off the Via dei Fori Imperiali, behind the Roman Forum. But the most famous nativity scene is the life-size artwork in Saint Peter’s Square.

Though the size and dimensions of the nativity vary year on year, the Vatican’s nativity scene and Christmas Tree are always the most tasteful and majestic in Rome. We still don’t have details about the design (or the designer). But watch this space and we’ll be updating the page once we do.

Get creative in the kitchen on a hands-on Cooking Class

Take the know-how of Italian cooking home with you by taking part in a hands-on cooking class! Perfect the art of authentic pasta and tiramisù or try something different, blending heady cocktails and hand-rolled pasta on a Spritz & Spaghetti cooking class!

Our classes are fun, family-friendly and sustainable. We source only local ingredients from trusted producers and strive to combat food waste by donating any leftover food.

Watch the Vatican’s Christmas Eve Mass

Known as Midnight Mass or Natale del Signore, Christmas Eve Mass is one of the most important events in the Vatican’s liturgical calendar.

The Mass is celebrated in Saint Peter’s Basilica, partly because of its ceremonial significance and partly because of its capacity to accommodate more than 60,000 people.

What time is Christmas Eve Mass?

The service takes place at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday 24th December. But to attend in person you have to have applied for tickets by the deadline of October 25th. If you cannot attend in person, stream the service via the Vatican’s YouTube channel instead, or attend another mass in one of Rome’s Papal Basilicas .

Christmas Eve is when Italians really celebrate Christmas. Many of Rome’s museums and galleries close or operate reduced opening hours, public transport operates less regularly (especially in the evening), and most restaurants close.

Many of our tours run as usual on Christmas Eve, and with the city practically empty this can be one of the best days to explore Rome and snap your shots of its usually crowded attractions. But the one thing you must do on Christmas Eve is eat, and eat well.

The Vatican's Christmas nativity. Photo credit: Wanted in Rome

Treat Yourself to a Food Tour

Did you know that Rome has been voted the best city in the world for food ? The Italian capital specialises in delicious fried street food, pizza by the slice, cheese and prosciutto cuts and more, but beating its cobbled streets can be more of a trial than a treat during the sweltering summer months.

Christmas is one of the best times to indulge yourself in Roman street food: the weather is milder, there are fewer tourists and there’s something more magical about tasting your way through the medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere as the sun sets and the Christmas lights come on. Check out the video below for a preview of our food tour and book your food tour here .

What to eat for Christmas Eve dinner

You must book in advance to guarantee your table for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Most restaurants close during this period and an increasing number of families trade in the stress of cooking at home for the convenience of eating out together.

Italians generally abstain from eating meat on Christmas Eve and feast on fish instead. As a general rule, the further south you go, and the closer to the coast you are, the more abundant the portions of seafood—culminating in the Sicilian Christmas dinner which could comfortably feed the five-thousand.

Here are our top recommendations for where to eat Christmas dinner in Rome :

Siciliainbocca . Sicilian cuisine is delicious, and nowhere in Rome does it better than Siciliainbocca . Last year on Christmas Eve they served up such delights as orange and fennel salad, pasta with sardines, and such seafood secondi as baccalà al nero di seppia .
La Pergola (Waldorf Astoria Hotel) . If money is no issue, you can find no finer dining that at the La Pergola . Situated on a hill overlooking the Vatican in the Balduina neighbourhood, Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant serves up a menu alla carta matched only by its views.
Gourmand’s Restaurant (The Building Hotel) . Centrally situated not far from Termini Station, Gourmand’s Restaurant serves up a deliicous Here’s their New Year’s Eve menu to get a taste of what they offer.

Celebrating Christmas Day in Rome

Almost all businesses close on Christmas Day so people can spend the day with their family. The Vatican closes on December 25th and 26th and on January 1st while the Colosseum bars its gates on December 25th and January 1st.

Bear in mind that the Colosseum operates reduced opening hours during winter (9:00 am – 4:30 pm with last entrance at 3:30).

What to eat for Christmas Dinner

As with the dinner on the 24th, most restaurants serve a menu alla carta instead of dishes on selection. Having said that, if you get a chance then when in Rome, do as the Romans do and try abbacchio al forno con patate (lamb done in the oven with potatoes). It’s a salty affair: traditionally, the lamb is braised in garlic, balsamic vinegar, and anchovies, creating a taste that’s a far cry from our classic mint sauce combo. But for the carnivores among you, it is absolutely delicious.

Winter weather in Rome

Rome’s climate is Mediterranean, which means cold, but never freezing winters. Temperatures hover between 7-10°C (45-50°F) on average, with six hours of sunshine per day and sunsets between 4:30 and 5:00 pm. The only downside during Italian winters can be the rain. Average rainfall is 111mm spread across the month so you’ll want to pack something waterproof or buy an umbrella while here.

But on the whole, Christmas is the most temperate time of year to explore the city, as it’s not too hot and never really too cold.

Snowfall is rare but not unheard of, and seeing the Eternal City wrapped in a blanket of snow is really a sight to behold. When visiting Rome at Christmas, pack warm, waterproof clothes and sturdy, waterproof shoes that offer grip on Rome’s cobbles.

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12 Top Things to Do at Christmas in Rome

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Rome is a popular Italian city to visit during the Christmas holiday season . It's also the place where some major religious Christmas traditions originated. The first Christmas Mass was said to take place at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the earliest known permanent nativity was created for the Rome Jubilee in 1300.

There is much to do and see in Rome during the Christmas holiday season, from early December through Epiphany on January 6. You can shop at the Christmas markets, visit a traditional nativity, and even go ice skating.

Please note some of these events have been canceled or altered in 2020; confirm details below and on event websites.

Enjoy Saint Peter's Square

Henryk Sadura / Getty Images

Each year, a huge Christmas tree is erected in Saint Peter's Square. A life-sized nativity is also set up but usually not unveiled until Christmas Eve. Thousands of visitors flock to Saint Peter's Square when the pope celebrates midnight mass on Christmas Eve inside Saint Peter's Basilica (in the square, the mass is shown on large screens). He delivers his Christmas blessing at noon on Christmas Day. On December 13, a colorful parade to Saint Peter's Square for Santa Lucia Day is held. For 2020, the midnight mass was moved to 7:30 p.m.

Cherish the Christmas Trees

Richard l'Anson / Getty Images

Christmas trees are not an Italian tradition but have become more popular in Rome, though decorations on the trees are usually fairly simple—often just lights. In addition to the one in Saint Peter's Square, two of the city's largest Christmas trees are typically the ones set up in Piazza Venezia and next to the Colosseum. There's also a tree in the area in front of the Museums on Capitoline Hill. Some shops, hotels, and restaurants display small trees.

View the Santa Maria Maggiore Christmas Nativity

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The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is said to have the oldest permanent presepe , or nativity scene. It was carved in marble by Arnolfo di Cambio in the late 13th century, a commission for the first Rome Jubilee held in 1300. Although originally displayed in the church, the nativity is now in the museum of Santa Maria Maggiore. Below the altar is a reliquary said to contain pieces of the original manger. It's kept in a niche in the same dimensions as the cave where Jesus was born. The first Christmas Mass was said to be held in Santa Maria Maggiore. When bells are rung at midnight, it signifies the start of Christmas.

Stroll by the Nativity at the Church of Saints Cosma and Damiano

Eleanor Scriven / Getty Images

The Church of Saints Cosma and Damiano , above the Roman Forum, displays one of the largest nativity scenes. Commissioned by Charles III of Naples, it includes not just religious figures but also intricate figures of people from everyday life. Six master woodcarvers worked on the scene for 40 years, adding new figures each year. Figures representing royalty are dressed in fine fabrics. This project started the Naples-style nativity, which still includes figures from everyday life. The city of Rome bought the nativity and restored it in the 1930s.

See the Santo Bambino in the Church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli

Byron T. / Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

In the 16th century, a statue of the Santo Bambino (child Jesus) was carved from a piece of olive wood from the Garden of Gethsemane. According to legend, an angel finished painting it after the friar who had started to do so ran out of paint. On its way to Rome, the ship carrying the statue sank but the art washed ashore in Livorno, Italy. The pope blessed the statue and kept it in the Basilica di Santa Maria in Aracoeli on the Capitoline Hill.

After the statue was reportedly stolen from the church in 1994, a copy was made to replace it, again blessed by the pope.

Roman children write their Christmas letters to Santo Bambino. On Christmas Eve, the statue is put in the church's Nativity, and on January 6, he's paraded down the church stairs—thousands of people come for the procession.

Head to the Menorah in Piazza Barberini

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Rome has a large Jewish population and Hanukkah is another important holiday celebrated in December. A large menorah is erected in Piazza Barberini in the city center . One candle is lit each night during the Hanukkah season. There is also usually a big Hanukkah Street Party in Rome’s Jewish Ghetto , where visitors can enjoy dancing, food, and marches.

Check Out 100 Presepi

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Nativity displays are a classic Italian form of Christmas decorations, and 100 Presepi , with nativity scenes from all over Italy and other parts of the world, is an annual traditional display. In 2020, the free event was limited to fewer visiting hours between December 13 and January 17, 2021, in the Colonnade of Saint Peter's Square.

Explore the Christmas Shop

Sempre Natale

Sempre Natale , which translates to always Christmas, is a shop all about the December holiday, located on Via della Scrofa in Rome and open all year. The store is known for European blown-glass ornaments, which are handmade in Italy, Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic. Before heading to the shop, you may want to get a sense of the unique, sometimes humorous, and beautiful ornaments .

Partake in Lights, Ice Skating, and Roasting Chestnuts

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The Auditorium Parco della Musica, which houses the ice skating rink, was temporarily closed in December 2020. Information on whether the ice rink is open is unavailable. Christmas markets in Rome were canceled for 2020.

Rome's main streets are decorated with lights and often have entertainment by roving musicians and vendors selling roasted chestnuts. Good places to go during the holidays are the shopping streets near Piazza di Spagna.

An outdoor ice skating rink is set up near Castel Sant'Angelo, where there's also a small Christmas market.

Hear the Pope's Christmas Day Address

The pope's annual Christmas day address is called Urbi et Orbe, which is Latin for “to the city and to the world.” Addressing the crowd in St. Peter's Square and around the globe through the media, the pope usually speaks in several languages and may use the opportunity to urge peace or address a current issue of concern.

He then gives his blessing to all those in the Square and people listening around the world.

Visit the Piazza Navona Christmas Market

Richard I'Anson / Getty Images

The Piazza Navona Christmas market was canceled for 2020.

In December, Piazza Navona —Rome's famous Baroque square—is transformed into a huge Christmas market. You'll find stands selling all kinds of Christmas sweets, toys, nativity figures, decorations, and gifts. There's a merry-go-round and Babbo Natale , Father Christmas, makes an appearance to delight the kids. A large nativity scene is on display in December as well.

Attend Mass at the Pantheon

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The Pantheon was temporarily closed to the public in December 2020.

Most visitors to Rome don't know that there is a beautiful and unusual Christmas Eve Mass celebrated at the Pantheon . The originally pagan building was designed in early Roman times to be a temple where one could worship any deity. In 609 A.D., it was consecrated as a Christian church and is used for Catholic services. On Christmas Eve, the candlelight Christmas celebration with Gregorian chants is beautiful and mystical.

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Christmas at the Altar of the Fatherland

A Traveler’s Guide to Spending Christmas in Rome

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and celebration. And what better place to spend it than in the Eternal City of Rome? In this blog post, we will give you all the information you need to plan your Christmas vacation in Rome. We will tell you about the best places to stay, what to see and do, and how to get around the city. And, of course, we’ll tell you about the famous Christmas Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City! So put on your Santa hat and prepare for an Italian Christmas adventure!

How To Spend Christmas in Rome

Christmas is a large holiday regardless of where you are in the world, but it’s particularly important in Rome.

If you’re planning on spending Christmas in Rome, the first thing you need to do is figure out where you’re going to stay, what you should see and do, and how to visit the Vatican during this special time of the year.

Is Rome a Good Place to Visit for Christmas?

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Rome is an excellent place to visit any time of the year (it made our list of must-see places in Italy ). Still, it’s particularly charming to visit for Christmas if you are interested in the holiday festivities.

The Vatican celebrates Christmas with a large mass, and there are also several other events throughout the city, like Christmas markets and nativity scenes. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate Christmas away from home, Rome is a great option.

Rome can be crowded at Christmas, particularly near the Vatican and other popular tourist attractions, but it’s not as bad as you’d think. Most people spend the Christmas holiday at home, so the tourist crowds aren’t nearly as bad as they are for New Year’s Eve.

If you’re planning on visiting Rome during the holidays, it’s still a good idea to book your accommodation and tickets in advance just to avoid any hiccups with your travels.

Think about everything you would want to do and see and then book your tickets at least six months before your Rome Christmas vacation.

Restaurants
Vatican mass
Colosseum tours
Sistine Chapel

Each of these will require you to set them up as soon as possible. We found out the hard way when we tried to book a hotel for Christmas/New Years in Rome, and they had been completely booked for a few months.

One of the most common questions we get about spending Christmas in Rome is whether or not it snows.

The answer to this question is that it does snow in Rome, but not very often. The last time it snowed on Christmas Day in Rome was in 2012, and before that, you have to go back to 1985.

So, while you may see a white Christmas in Rome, it’s not very likely.

The weather in Rome during Christmas is usually mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-60 degrees Fahrenheit).

You may see some rain during your stay, but the Roman winters are not as rainy as the summers.

If you’re spending Christmas in Rome, you must pack for the weather and activities you have planned. Chances are that you won’t wear the same clothes at Christmas Eve mass as you would for exploring the Colosseum.

Above all else, make sure to pack a jacket or coat, as well as comfortable shoes for walking.

And, of course, don’t forget your camera to take plenty of pictures of the beautiful Christmas lights and decorations!

Yes, the Colosseum is open over Christmas break, but not on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day. We recommend booking your tickets in advance, as the Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome.

If you’re planning on heading to the Colosseum over the Christmas holidays, you should know ahead of time that the Colosseum observes the winter hours, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM every day, with the last admission at 3:30 PM.

You can book your tickets online here.

One of the best things about spending Christmas in Rome is that you can experience how the Roman Catholics celebrate this holiday.

The Vatican holds a large mass on Christmas Eve, and the Pope attends it to give his blessings to the crowd. This is followed by a procession of the Nativity scene, which is set up in Saint Peter’s Square.

On Christmas Day, there is another mass at the Vatican, and then several other events take place around the city, such as Christmas markets and nativity scenes.

Roman taxi drivers waiting for passengers

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Yes, there are several Christmas markets in Rome. The most famous one is the Christmas market at Piazza Navona, which is held from December 8th to December 24th.

This market is located in one of Rome’s most beautiful squares and is the perfect place to find Christmas gifts and decorations.

There are also markets at Campo de’ Fiori, Largo Argentina, and Piazza Venezia.

The answer to this question is a little complicated.

Some trains do run on Christmas Day, but many of them do not. It is best to check the schedule ahead of time to see if your train will be running.

If you’re planning on taking a train on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, we recommend booking your tickets well in advance.

If you’re looking for a traditional Italian Christmas dinner, we recommend heading to Trattoria da Bucatino .

This restaurant is located in the Trastevere district and it is known for its delicious Bucatino all’Amatriciana, a pasta dish made with pork and tomato sauce.

For something a little more modern, we recommend dining at La Pergola . This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in the Rome Cavalieri hotel and it offers an unforgettable dining experience.

No matter what type of food you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Rome at Christmas time.

In addition to exploring the city’s Christmas markets and nativity scenes, there are plenty of other things to do in Rome at Christmas.

You can visit the Vatican Museums, which are decorated for the holiday season, or take a tour of the Sistine Chapel .

We recommend visiting some of Rome’s Best Museums , which we put in a guide to help you quickly identify which ones interest you the most.

If you’re looking for something a little more festive, you can attend the Christmas concert at the Vatican or go ice skating in Piazza Barberini.

No matter what you decide to do, you’re sure to have a magical time spending Christmas in Rome.

Rome is Cold, Grappa Can Help

Grappa is a local tradition used to warm up Italians during winter.

This map points you to several areas of interest for spending Christmas in Rome:

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
Obelisk of St Peter’s Square
Piazza Navona
Campo de’ Fiori
Chiesa di Sant’Antonio dei Portoghesi
Chiesa di Santa Maria ai Monti
Chiesa di Sant’ Ignazio di Loyola
Altar of the Fatherland

Christmas at the Vatican

One of the most popular things to do in Rome during Christmas is attending mass at the Vatican. This is a beautiful experience, and it is something that you will remember for the rest of your life.

However, it is important to note that the Vatican does not allow flash photography during mass.

You will also need to dress modestly, so pack a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders.

The Vatican website has more information about attending mass at the Vatican during Christmas.

Vatican City is open every day, including during Christmas. However, keep in mind that you won’t be able to access the Vatican Museums on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

On Christmas Eve, the Pope leads a mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. This is followed by a procession of the Nativity scene, which is set up in Saint Peter’s Square.

On Christmas Day, there is another mass at the Vatican and similar events like Nativity Scenes and Christmas markets.

The Sistine Chapel is open every day except for December 25th (Christmas Day) and January 1st (New Year’s Day).

Oddly enough, the week leading up to Christmas and the day after Christmas are relatively quiet, with fewer tourists in the city than usual. This gives you the perfect opportunity to explore the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

That said, Rome gets very crowded on the days leading up to New Year’s Eve. So make sure you visit the Museum and Chapel before everyone arrives in Rome.

You can also visit St. Peter’s on Christmas day at noon when the Pope gives his Christmas Day Urbi et Orbi speech and bless the crowds.

However, we recommend getting there early so you can get a good spot. Many people start lining up hours before the mass begins.

If you haven’t booked a seat (or standing) at least several months in advance, you likely won’t be able to enter St. Peter’s Basilica. People come from around the world to watch the Pope and pray together. We booked our tickets one year in advance and recommend you do so.

If you miss tickets, you can still go to mass at other beautiful locations, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore , one of the oldest churches in Rome.

Midnight Mass, or “Mass of the Lord’s Supper,” is the Catholic Mass that takes place late on Christmas Eve. Despite its name, Midnight Mass actually starts around 9:30 PM.

Christmas Midnight Mass usually includes readings from the Bible, carols, and other hymns. The Pope leads this mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.

If you’re not Catholic, don’t worry! You can still attend Midnight Mass and join in on the beautiful celebration. All are welcome.

We’ve mentioned it a few times, but the first thing to remember is that you should book as soon as possible. Tickets for Midnight Mass run out quickly.

You can request tickets through the Papal Audience , but they haven’t moved into the 21st Century yet, and getting tickets isn’t as straightforward as you’d assume.

Note tickets are free, and you should never pay for your mass tickets.

The best way to get your tickets for Christmas Mass at the Vatican is by sending a request via email directly to the Vatican 2 to 6 months in advance.

The Vatican will respond and notify you that they received your request. You then take this acceptance letter to the Swiss Guards in St. Peter’s Square at the “Bronze Door.” The Swiss Guards will grant you access.

Fill out the form found on the bottom right side of the Papal Audience website (look for the coat of arms icon) and submit it any of the following ways:

Email: [email protected]

Fax: +39 06 6988 5863

Snail Mail:

Prefecture of the Papal Household Vatican City State, 00120

Christmas in Rome is a magical time. If you’re planning on spending the holidays in Rome, be sure to check out our guide for what to see and do. From visiting the Vatican to soaking up the festive atmosphere in Piazza Navona, there’s something for everyone during Christmastime in Rome. Do you have any other tips for visitors? Let us know in the comments!

About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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A Guide to Christmas in Rome

View of Piazza Navona Christmas market in Rome

Northern European destinations tend to monopolize the lists of top spots for a fairytale white Christmas. It’s hard to argue with snow-capped mountains and mulled wine. But if you prefer pasta to goulash and hope to stroll glittering streets without your toes going numb, then Rome makes a perfect holiday season mini-break.

After a few less-than-cheerful Christmases due to the pandemic, Italy’s capital city — and my home base! — has come back in full force, delighting residents and tourists with seasonal activities. If you’re ready to pile on the holiday cheer, Italian-style, here’s a quick guide to spending a few festive days in the Eternal City — all suggestions that have my local’s seal of approval.

Things to do during the Christmas season in Rome

Keeping to tradition, December 8 marked the official kickoff of the Italian holiday season as the country celebrated La Festa dell’Immacolata , formally known as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Now that Rome has officially moved into Christmas mode, there’s no shortage of ways to embrace the holiday joy.

Explore the Christmas market in Piazza Navona

Carousel at the Christmas market of Piazza Navona in Rome

Munch on sweet treats and pick up some artisan-made toys, holiday decorations and crafts — all against the backdrop of one of Rome’s most beautiful piazzas and its Baroque masterworks. The market kicks off every day at 10am and stays open until 1am during the week (2am on weekends), so you can squeeze in a visit after dinner without any risk of being booted out. Don’t skip the carousel for a whimsical moment of pure holiday fun.

Take in the glittering holiday lights

Few things spark more joy than Christmas lights — my personal favorite (and mostly free) way to celebrate the holidays is wandering around Rome and basking in their glow. Some of the sparkliest are concentrated in the shopping boulevard of Via del Corso and on Via dei Condotti toward the Spanish Steps. Trastevere, too, dials up the charm even more than usual this time of year; the highlight in that area is the show-stopping Incanto di Luci experience at the Orto Botanico, which dazzles with its 1.5km trail of glittering lights. Tickets are limited — and the fun only runs through January 8, 2023 — so you’ll want to book ahead on their website.

Twinkle lights are stars in their own right, but what’s Christmas without a tree (or a few?) If it’s trees that tower stories high you’re after, you’ll want to add Piazza Venezia, Piazza San Pietro and the Colosseum to your lights tour.

Travel the globe at Christmas World

Mini Berlin-style area at Christmas World in the Villa Borghese in Rome

Organizers say it’s the largest Christmas event in Europe. Though other markets and villages have made similar claims, “who’s truly the biggest?” seems like needless hair-splitting when you’ve got 30,000 meters of Christmas cheer spread across Villa Borghese to enjoy. Decorations and stands take inspiration from global capitals (and Santa’s workshop): You’ll explore New York, Berlin, Paris, Tokyo, London, and the North Pole during your visit, with each area offering tailored entertainment and activities. Tip: Book in advance and, if you’re flexible on visit times and find crowds a challenge, consider the period between Boxing Day and New Year’s, when many locals will be snuggled up at home.

Admire the nativity scenes

It’s no surprise that in a city with more than 900 churches, you’ll find countless presepi (nativity scenes) on view. Ranging from small and traditional to expansive and modern, presepi are a quintessentially Italian Christmas tradition and a must during holiday trips to Rome. The city’s most sought-after nativity scene is found just where you might expect it, in St. Peter’s Square. This year, the 116-square-meter scene was entirely crafted from sustainably sourced wood by artisans from Sutrio in the Udine province. But it’s not just Italian crafters in the spotlight at Saint Peter’s: Spaced throughout the famed colonnade are additional presepi that make up the fifth edition of the 100 Presepi in Vaticano exhibition , sourced from countries as far-flung as Taiwan, Venezuela and Ukraine. Entrance is free.

And hey, while you’re there, you might as well step off to visit the epicenter of Catholicism. ‘Tis the reason for the season, after all: After you’ve presepe- hopped and gazed at the albero di natale (Christmas tree), take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums to gain a greater understanding of the history of the Catholic faith and its influence in Rome.

What to expect during December 24-26 in Rome

Via dei Condotti during Christmastime in Rome, 2021

If you will be visiting Rome at the height of the Christmas holiday, you’ll need to plan ahead to ensure that you avoid any “no room at the inn”-style scenarios as you explore the city. Make note of these tips and get moving if you want to experience Christmas like a Roman: December 25 will be here before you know it!

Many restaurants close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Shuttered restaurants in Piazza Navona, Rome

As many restaurants close their doors to celebrate Italy’s biggest holiday, you’ll need to proactively book for Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day lunch or dinner. Check out this list of restaurants located near the city’s most famous monuments and call around to find a spot for a delicious festive meal. (Emailing or online booking for restaurants is very hit or miss; start trying at least a week in advance if you can’t call.) A good rule of thumb is that fine dining joints and luxury hotel restaurants (like Settimo at the Sofitel Roma Villa Borghese ) are more likely to be open and to feature fixed-price holiday menus than your neighborhood trattoria — giving you a ready-made excuse to splash out. I’d also typically suggest trying your luck at restaurants located in the city’s historic Jewish quarter , but this year Hanukkah and Christmas overlap, causing a frenzy of festive meals!

Museums in Rome close on Christmas Day

In 2022, all of the civic museums (which include the Capitoline Museums, Trajan's Market, and the Ara Pacis) are closed on Christmas Day but will be open on Christmas Eve from 9am-2pm, with last admission at 1pm. State museums (which include the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill; the Galleria Borghese; the Museo Nazionale Romano; and Palazzo Barberini, among others) are also closed on Christmas Day, but their opening times on Christmas Eve, New Year's Day and Epiphany are much less uniform. If you can brave a squint-inducing timetable in Italian, here is the complete list from the City of Rome's tourist call center, 060608 .

Attend a midnight mass on Christmas Eve

While you would have needed to request Papal Mass tickets for Christmas Eve several months ago, you can still watch the service from the big screens in St. Peter’s Square without a ticket. Otherwise, you can attend a mass at any of the city’s many churches in Italian. For those looking for services in English, St. Patrick’s Catholic American Parish near the U.S. Embassy or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on the central Via Nazionale have full Christmas season calendars.

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Rome in December – An Easy Guide to Planning Your Trip

If you ask me, one of the best times to visit Rome is fall and early winter. If you are planning a trip to Rome in December be prepared to enjoy a fully festive atmosphere. Christmas markets, trees, and Nativity scenes all around are made even more cheerful by the colorful lights sprucing up the streets everywhere.

Whether you want to travel early in the month or towards the end of the year, our guide will help you organize your vacation with tips on what to pack, what to wear, and where you should book to avoid standing in line or finding fully booked hotels, restaurants, and landmarks.

If you want to spend December in Rome, you will need some preparation and planning. We hope our tips will be of help!

Don’t miss our extensive Rome travel guide for precious tips to plan your trip.

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5 Reasons to visit Rome in December

It’s cheaper. From international and domestic flights to Rome hotels, if you plan your trip to Italy in December instead of summer, you will certainly save good bucks.
Summer heat is a far memory. No more sweating, panting and getting tired quickly. You will enjoy walking and if it starts to rain, you can always duck into a coffee shop or bar for a nice espresso shot and croissant.
Less crowded. This is a big reason to visit Rome in December. You will find smaller lines than in summer at most landmarks, especially in museums and historical sites such as Castel Sant’Angelo or the Trajan’s Markets . Other major attractions such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum are still very busy, and close to Christmas even more so. This is why I strongly recommend you book ahead your entry to these two places to avoid standing hours in line or even finding no available spots.
Christmas makes it magical. It’s only normal that Christmas is a very busy time of the year in Rome. Between Christmas markets and trees, Nativity scenes set up in all the local churches, and bright street lights and decorations starting from December 8th, December is a fantastic festive time to visit Rome .
New Year’s Eve is a big party. Whether you are planning to join a private party or public events organized for the occasion, New Year’s Eve is a big date in Rome and Italy in general. Every year in Rome, the local municipality organizes fireworks in the Colosseum and a public concert at the Circus Maximus. Over the last two years, a large selection of events, concerts, and performances took place from the night of December 31st all the way through January 1st. Many local celebrations on this occasion also happen in Piazza del Popolo .

Don’t miss our tips on the best things to do in Rome for Christmas .

The weather in Rome in December

The weather in Rome in December is pleasantly mild, similar to most of Spain in winter . Even though you might find some rainy days, it’s usually sunny or cloudy at most. In Rome, in winter it does rain quite a lot, but December goes out pretty mild.

Usually, the rainy days in the past years in December in Rome were an average of 9 days for the whole month. Even if you happen in a little more rainy period, you can also expect long dry breaks. December is usually less rainy than November.

How warm is it in Rome in December? December marks the shift between fall and winter, which officially starts on the 21st, the longest night of the year known as the winter solstice. The temperatures in December in Rome range between 13°C (55°F) the highest and 4°C (39°F) the lowest.

The beginning of December can show more autumn weather still, with warmer temperatures and maybe more rainy days.

Wondering if you should book your trip in the fall? Don’t miss our guide to visiting Rome in November .

Holidays in December in Rome

The biggest holidays in Rome and all of Italy December in Rome:

December 8th is the Immacolata Concezione (Immaculate Conception), a holiday devoted to the Virgin Mary. Schools and offices are closed, most shops and restaurants in the city center will be open, and from this day we set up the Christmas decorations, trees, and nativity scenes. Many Christmas markets will open on this day.
December 25th is Christmas Day. Banks, post offices, police, local municipality, and all types of public and private offices will be closed. In the city center, many shops will be open, while in other districts suburban and even near the historic center but not so touristy, will close.
December 26th is Boxing Day. In Italy, we celebrate Saint Stephen’s Day. Closures are the same as for Christmas, offices are closed and shops open only in tourist areas.
December 31st is actually not a holiday. In fact, all shops and offices will be open, at least for half of the day. Probably some will close a little earlier to get ready for the celebrations for New Year’s Eve all around the city.

Image: Visiting the Vatican is something to do in Rome in December

How long are the days in Rome in December?

December is the first month of the winter season, and on the 21st, there is the longest night of the year. This is known as the winter solstice and what in the Persian world is known and celebrated as Yalda.

At the beginning of December in Rome, you can expect the sun to rise around 7.15 am and set at 4.37 pm. Around mid-December, dawn is around 7.30 am and dusk is at 4.36 pm. Getting towards the end of the month, the sun rises between 7.10 and 7.14 am and sets at 4.40 pm.

On the winter solstice and after, the 21st and the 22nd of December, the sun rises at 7.32. am and sets at 4.38 pm. From now on, daylight starts to increase. At the end of the month, dawn is 7.36 am and dusk at 4.44 pm.

The daylight in Rome in December goes from around 9 hours and 20 minutes at the beginning of the month and a little more than 9 hours towards the end of the month when winter has already started.

What do to in December in Rome

Thanks to the pleasant weather, fewer crowds at historical landmarks, and season festivities, there are many things travelers can do in Rome in December. Here are some of our suggestions.

Chase Christmas markets

A big role in the Yuletide spirit in Rome is played by the many Christmas markets set up around the city’s main squares. From Piazza Mazzini in the Prati area to Piazza Navona to Piazza Risorgimento in the shade of the Vatican Walls, they sell anything you can think of.

In Piazza Navona you will mainly find toys, sweets and candies. However, even though this really is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Rome , in recent years it has lost its charm and doesn’t really sell local artisan products. A few years ago, the local municipality, much to everyone’s surprise, has decided not to run this market, so we will regularly update as soon as we have the latest news.

Other markets sell also clothes and food products from all the Italian regions like in the stalls set up in Piazza Mazzini or handmade objects and decorations like in Piazza Risorgimento.

These markets are fantastic places for shopping. Whether you are looking for some gifts from Rome for your family and friends or something for yourself, here you can find plenty of nice options.

Go on a shopping spree

Apart from the Christmas markets, the shops of Rome in December are a feast for the eyes. The windows are shimmering with festive lights and colors and will lure you in to try new clothes and shoes, discover new jewelry and accessories collections, or explore local and regional food specialties.

Some of the best areas for shopping in Rome are Via del Corso in the city center, Via Cola di Rienzo in Prati, and Via dei Condotti and its back streets around Piazza di Spagna .

See the Christmas trees

While you will see Christmas trees around every corner and in many restaurants and even bars in Rome in December, the largest ones are in Piazza Venezia and in St. Peter’s Square.

The tree in Piazza Venezia is set up by Rome’s Council with the aid of some private sponsors, while the giant tree in St. Peter’s Square is usually donated to the Vatican by a different country every year.

Image: Christmas tree at the Colosseum in December in Rome

Walk along the river Tiber

Strolling along the river and across the scenic bridges of Rome is a fabulous experience in every season, but with the colors of the month of December and the lights set up for the festivities reflecting on the water, the atmosphere becomes really magic.

Cross scenic bridges like Ponte Sant’Angelo connecting the Hadrian Mausoleum to the city center or Ponte Vittorio Emanuele for fantastic views. If you want to soak in the history, don’t miss the oldest Roman bridge and head towards the Jewish quarter to see Pons Fabricius .

Image: Sant'Angelo bridge in Rome in December

Go to a museum

There are so many fantastic museums in Rome that you will be really spoiled for choice. Important museums like Musei Capitolini, Museo Nazionale Romano, Galleria Borghese, and the Vatican Museums are unmissable if it’s your first time in Rome and a perfect shelter if it starts raining.

Adding to the permanent collections, in many museums, you can also enjoy great temporary exhibitions that are often in place during Christmas time and beyond. Some of the best places to see temporary exhibitions are the Ara Pacis, Chiostro del Bramante, and Palazzo delle Esposizioni.

Check out our article on what to do in Rome when it rains !

Join the Christmas festivities

For Christmas in Rome, there will be holy functions in just about every church. The midnight Mass on the 24th and morning Mass on the 25th and 26th of December are the most important appointments but not the only ones.

The Vatican always has a range of initiatives you can attend, including the papal audiences and the Angelus prayer every Sunday.

All around the city, there will be also many events along with the Christmas markets and decorations.

This year, on the weekend of December 16th and 17th, you can join the Christmas edition of Roma Diffusa , a series of over 50 workshops scattered around different neighborhoods such as Centro Storico, Monti, Trastevere, Testaccio, and Prati. Local artisans will show everyone how to create the best Christmas gifts following the art and craft of their own shops. You can see the full program and the shops participating here .

Visit an ice skating rink

If you enjoy ice skating, you will be happy to know that in Rome there are several ice skating rinks open in winter, especially during the Christmas period.

One of the most popular is the one set up in the Auditorium Parco della Musica inside the Christmas village which, apart from the rink, hosts also a Christmas market and the house of Santa Klaus for children. The organizers of this rink hold free introduction courses to ice skating.

Every year in Rome in December they open ice rinks in different locations especially close to Christmas.

Go to a concert

December is a feast of concerts in Rome. Italian and international artists perform in places such as Palazzo dello Sport, Auditorium Parco della Musica, and Palalottomatica.

This year, on December 2023, these are some of the singers and bands lined up for a show:

Concerto di Natale on December 16th at Auditorium Conciliazione (Via della Conciliazione 4) at 5 pm.
Peppe Lanzetta Jazz concert on December 21st at Teatro Studio Borgna (Via Pietro de Coubertin) at 9 pm.
Eric Waddell & The Abundant Life Singers on December 21st and 22nd at Auditorium Parco della Musica (Via Pietro de Coubertin) at 9 pm.

Explore St. Peter’s Basilica and Square

The symbol of Christendom and one of the most important places in the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the best places to visit in Rome in December for both tourists and pilgrims. If you are a pilgrim, you can check out their schedules and join the religious functions and the celebrations when the Pope appears.

A great site to visit within the Vatican right underneath St. Peter’s Basilica is the ancient necropolis right under the Renaissance church and where is the tomb of the Apostle. There are no functions here so it’s likely to be closed on the 25th and 26th of December, but if you manage to squeeze that into your itinerary, it will add incredible value to your trip.

Image: Saint Peter's Square and Basilica in Rome

Visit Rome’s Centro Storico

All neighborhoods of Rome are beautiful during Christmas, but the Centro Storico is truly fascinating. It’s here that you will find the best decorations installed to spruce up the main roads and back alleys. It’s all around the most famous tourist sites such as the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain , and the Pantheon where the winter festive ornaments and vibe will remind you of the Yule spirit at every step.

Take a stroll in Trastevere

Any time is a good time to stroll around the wonderful Trastevere neighborhood . Being December a festive month, the traditional vibe of Trastevere makes it a charming experience. Get lost in the maze of narrow alleys, enjoy window shopping around the small local boutiques and artisan workshops, eat some great gelato, and cross the bridges to the Jewish Ghetto.

Among the best places to visit in Trastevere is also the Botanic Gardens where you can enjoy some peace and green, many different species of plants, and historical landmarks.

Don’t miss our guide to the best restaurants in Trastevere !

For as beguiling as the Centro Storico will be, going offbeat in Rome is always a charming adventure, especially if it’s not your first trip and you have already seen the main landmarks. For example, you can visit underrated neighborhoods like Ostiense and Testaccio or quaint areas like the lovely Quartiere Coppedè in the Trieste district.

To explore a lesser-known side of Rome you can also visit places that are slightly out of the city center but still easy to reach by public transport. Some utterly fascinating options include Parco degli Acquedotti to learn more about the history of the city’s ancient aqueducts or historical sites like Sant’Agnese Fuori le Mura complex where you can also visit early-Christian catacombs and see the wonderful mosaics of Santa Costanza mausoleum.

Take a food tour or cooking class

Eating and cooking are always a favorite in Italy. In December in Rome, you can book a food tour to sample local delicacies or a cooking class to learn to make the same specialties at home.

Many experiences are running all over the city. We joined a lovely evening food tour in Trastevere and a morning food tour in Testaccio . Both of them had great tastings combined with historical sightseeing and anecdotes.

If you wish to learn some cooking secrets and how to prepare some Italian dishes to surprise your friends and family back home, join a cooking class in Rome to have fun and enjoy plenty of tastings like the pasta-making class we took in Trastevere .

Check out our guide to the best food tours in Rome .

Image: eating in Italy at norcineria trastevere food tour in Rome

What to book ahead for Rome in December

Even though not as crowded as July and August, also December can be a pretty busy month with both domestic and international tourists.

Hotels. It’s always a good idea to book your hotel in advance, but more so when it’s tourist season. Particularly if you come to Rome around Christmas time, booking your room ahead of time will help you find more and better options. When I travel, I always use Booking for my hotel reservations so I recommend this for Rome, too.
Colosseum and Roman Forum. The Colosseum is one of the busiest landmarks in Rome the whole time, more so during the peak seasons like Christmas and the summer months. I suggest you book your ticket or tour before arriving in Italy as you can do so easily online. Check out the best Colosseum tours or here to book a skip-the-line entry . The opening hours of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum in December are every day from 9 am to 4.30 pm. On December 25th, The Colosseum and the Roman Forum are closed.
Vatican Museums. Around Christmas, the Vatican truly teems with tourists and pilgrims. Since the Vatican Museums are a very popular destination packed with history and artwork, booking ahead your entry or a private tour is highly recommended. To help you decide, check out our guide to the best Vatican tours or purchase a skip-the-line ticket here .
Restaurants. Reserving a restaurant in Rome is recommended all year long, especially on the weekend and more in the city center, even though popular restaurants also in other neighborhoods can be very busy. Obviously, you don’t need to book your table before traveling, but once you are here, you can book from the day before if it’s for lunch or from the morning if it’s for dinner.
Christmas Day lunch and dinner. If you wish to go to a fancy restaurant on December 25th, booking is mandatory, otherwise, you are likely not to find space whether it’s lunch or dinner. Call in advance also to make sure the restaurant is open.
New Year’s Eve dinner. The dinner on New Year’s Eve is known as “cenone” and it’s an expensive, all-inclusive dinner that you can have in many restaurants in Rome. Here booking is required because places are limited. Not all places organize the cenone so call in advance to enquire who does and who doesn’t. This way, you can also choose which type of dinner you prefer.

What to pack for a trip to Rome in December

While there are some regulars to pack for Rome in any season , December can have its own packing list. Here are some of the essentials I suggest taking with you if you plan your trip to Rome in December.

Umbrella. From November all the way to April, carrying a small, foldable umbrella in your bag or backpack in Rome is a good idea. In December in Rome, it doesn’t rain a lot, certainly every day, but it usually takes you by surprise so to avoid having to buy a low-quality one from a street vendor, better if you carry your own.
Medicines. Even though not too cold, it’s still wintertime and flu season so whatever you are used to taking in these cases, be it aspirin or paracetamol, it’s a good idea to have it with you. Usually, these drugs are easily available from the counter without the need for a prescription, but if you also need antibiotics, it’s even more important that you carry them with you from home.
Winter clothes. Some warm trousers, jumpers, and a jacket are something to include in your list when packing for Rome in December . More on what to wear is below.
Travel backpack. A small backpack or a crossbody bag will help you carry safely your valuables and personal objects in Rome. Keep in mind that backpacks are not allowed in some landmarks including the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums so a crossbody bag, in this case, will be a better option.
Reusable water bottle. This definitely applies to every season, especially in summer when it’s of utmost importance to remain hydrated. The ubiquitous presence of the nasoni fountains makes it easy to refill your bottle with fresh drinkable water.

Traveling in July or August? Don’t miss our tips on what to pack in Rome for summer .

What to wear in December in Rome

Jumper or sweater. Unless you are German, you won’t want to wear a T-shirt or even a blouse in Rome in December. A jumper or a sweater is necessary, and most of the time you will also need a jacket on top.
Cotton shirts. Long or short-sleeve cotton tops are very useful to wear layers. Since December is a bit in between fall and winter, sometimes it’s cold but sometimes it can get warm, especially around midday. Layering will save you from too much sweating or being unprepared for sudden temperature drops.
Socks or tights. If you are wearing a skirt, stockings are needed in winter in Rome . In the evening, I would even suggest a warmer pair of tights. If you are wearing ankle boots or sneakers, a pair of cotton socks will be fine.
Raincoat. In December in Rome, you might find rain and wind, so if you have room in your luggage, an easy-to-pack raincoat is a good option.
Jacket or coat. Depending on your style, you will wear either a jacket or a coat, but you will find one of them necessary at the beginning of winter in Rome. It’s not unusual to remove the jacket during the hottest time of the day, let’s say between 1 and 3 pm, but apart from that, some coat or jacket is required in Rome in December.
Winter shoes. Boots or ankle boots might be necessary if it rains, otherwise, a pair of winter sneakers is enough. You might want to pack at least two pairs of shoes in case one gets wet if it rains.
Scarf. A scarf for me is mandatory since just about October, more so in December. It protects you from the humidity and occasional wind, alongside the decreasing temperatures.
Hat. You might want to wear a warm hat in Rome in December, especially at night.
Gloves. If you feel cold easily, gloves might be necessary for Rome in December, especially at night. Probably I wouldn’t wear them during the day because it’s not that cold. I’m quite sensitive to cold temperatures but I rarely wear gloves in winter in Italy and for sure not in Rome in December. If I wear gloves in Rome, it’s hardly before January or February.

Check out our full guide to what to wear in Rome in December .

Is December a good time to visit Rome?

December is a fantastic time to visit Rome. I’ve been less enamored of the summer heat these past few years, so I immediately welcome the beginning of fall and colder temperatures. As December is not too cold yet and the summer heat is long gone, it’s one of my favorite months in Rome.

The few rainy days and the very moderate showers won’t certainly put you off from visiting and exploring. In fact, most of the time you will find sunny days and crisp weather, so walking and sightseeing will be a pleasure.

Due to the imminent Christmas holidays, a local and traditional feel will permeate throughout the city, making your experience more authentic than what you can perceive in the summer months.

The beginning of December will be quieter than the end because it’s more preparation of the coming holidays. So you can expect a different adventure depending on when you travel. In the first part of the month, you will witness a more hectic routine, the groundwork for the Christmas festivities.

This entails sprucing up the streets and the shops’ windows, roasting chestnuts around the corner of the main piazzas, showcasing Christmas offers and promotions and preparing for the biggest sales of the year. Shopping streets will be busy mainly with locals darting back and forth to buy gifts and carry on with their daily life.

Towards the second half and even the last week of the month, Rome becomes busier with tourists and pilgrims who arrive to spend Christmas in Italy and join the religious celebrations in the Vatican. This is also the time when landmarks will be more crowded and lines longer.

Is the Vatican busy in December?

Very. That’s why if you are visiting Rome in December, booking ahead your ticket to the Vatican Museums is strongly recommended. Many tourists like to visit the Vatican in December, be it for religious reasons or sightseeing. Even religious tourists seize the occasion and book their Vatican Museums and Gardens tour.

Especially towards the end of the month of December and the nearing of Christmas, the city and the Vatican become busier. You will find larger crowds and queues both in St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums.

An easier way to reach early morning could be to book your hotel near the Vatican so you can avoid peak hours on public transport and getting stuck in traffic.

Is the Vatican open on Christmas?

The Vatican Museums are closed on the 25th and 26th of December, which are Christmas Day and Boxing Day (in Italy Saint Stephen’s Day).

The Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican, however, is open and you can visit it except when there are religious functions.

Don’t miss our full guide to visiting the Vatican in Rome .

Is the Colosseum in Rome open on Christmas Day?

No, the Colosseum is closed on December 25th (Christmas Day) and on January 1st (New Year, the Italian “Capodanno”). It’s open from 9 am to 4.30 pm on Boxing Day, December 26th.

Does Rome have a Christmas market?

Rome has many Christmas markets. Many of the most famous Rome piazzas host a Christmas market, from Piazza Navona to Piazza Mazzini to Piazza Risorgimento. I have often found smaller markets in other squares such as Piazza della Chiesa Nuova along Corso Vittorio Emanuele II.

On top of the stalls open only for the holidays, all the flea and food markets of Rome will have plenty of timely promotions and products specific for the winter and Christmas periods.

About The Author: Angela Corrias

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Rome at christmas: guide for visitors.

In Rome for Christmas? Find all you need to know to enjoy the Eternal City during the holiday season with this practical guide to Rome at Christmas -updated 2023.

Rome is always stunning, but Rome at Christmas is magical.

When the festive season dusts its ancient walls with lights and cheer, the often prickly personality of this multifaceted city softens and acquires an air of joyful elegance that lifts the spirits of inhabitants and tourists alike.

Growing up in Rome I witnessed often the transition from a dull winter day to the light-filled days of Christmas.

The first big day for Christmas festivities in Rome is the 8th of December, when trees are traditionally decorated, and celebrations carry through all the way to the 6th of December, when the epiphany ‘takes away’ the holiday ( L’Epifania, tutte le feste porta via ).

These full tree weeks of holidays are filled with seasonal events in Rome and I can think of many unique things to do in Rome at Christmas that I am personally looking forward to the experience and that I am sure will put the city on your wish list for Christmas plans next year.

Visiting Rome soon? Check also our FAVOURITE ROME ITINERARY, OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST THINGS TO SEE IN ROME FOR FREE AND OUR SELECTION OF ROME HOTELS

Table of Contents

10 awesome things to do in Rome at Christmas

Look up at the christmas tree rome’s main squares.

Many of Rome’s main piazzas get tall Christmas trees during the holiday season and they are a cool sight for kids and adults alike.

Among the most impressive, there are the tall tree in Piazza Venezia and the one in St Peter’s square.

The most impressive of all is the one in St Peter’s square.

I can think of many reasons why you should visit St Peter’s square and basilica at Christmas, but the one I cherish most of all and is always a great hit with the kids is the big tree that graces the centre of this peculiar yet important State.

The tree reaches the square each year from a different destination but it is always immensely tall (in 2017 it was 28 metres!), sustainably grown and meaningful: its wood, once the festivities are over, is donated to charity.

The tree arrives in the Piazza at the end of November and gets lit around the 8th of December (the exact date changes every year).

Top tip for families visiting with young children: the tree is always a great sight but especially if you have a toddler or anyway a young boy the real fun moment is when the tree arrives. Because of its size, the tree is usually carried by big cranes and machines, effortlessly maneuvering it around as it if was a piece of lego! It is not the most cultural of events in Rome, but I can guarantee it will be one little kids will remember fondly.

Marvel at the elaborate nativity scenes

Italy has a strong tradition of nativity scenes and if you are curious about this special craft and its significance, the ‘100 nativity scenes’ exhibition the place for you.

Like the name suggests, the exhibition has over 100 variations on the theme of the Bethlehem crib and it is interesting because it hosts creations not jut from several Italian regions but also from foreign countries – Belgium, el Salvador, China, Korea, Panama, Indonesia and Peru, just to name a few!

The exhibition takes place in Piazza San Pietro and is free, you can just walk in (it’s under the colonnade, you cannot miss it once you’re in the square, you’ll see it)

Vatican main square at Christmas with tree and nativity scene

Where are the best nativity scenes in Rome at Christmas?

Another great way to see nativity scenes is to spot them in public spaces around town.

The best known are at the Campidoglio (to the left of the main stairway), Piazza Navona and in churches such as Santa Maria Maggiore or the wonderful Sant’Eustachio.

Nativity scene in St Eustachio church. Rome

Celebrate Christmas mass at the Vatican

On Christmas, the eyes of the catholic world turn to St Peter’s square and if you are spending Christmas in Rome, you may want to participate to this event and see the Pope in person.

This is possible however, it does take some planning and a good bit of luck as tickets for the mass in the Vatican are limited and hard to get.

However, should you not be one of the chosen few who can participate to the even from inside the church, there is an alternative.

On Christmas even, you can head to St Peter’s square and join the many visitors who follow the mass from the big screens in the square or, on Christmas day, you can participate to the mass held in the square at noon.

This one does not require tickets (but does get super busy).

You can find here >>> all you need to know about visiting the Vatican at Christmas.

Go ice skating at the auditorium

Rome doesn’t see snow at Christmas but ice skate rings do pop up during the festivities.

One I love is the small but beautiful ring in the Auditorium, open until late in the evening.

The auditorium is an impressive building with a good programme of musical events.

It is not in the centre of town and as such is unlikely to be on your itinerary especially if you are on a tight schedule, but if you love music it is worth the detour and the ice skating can be fun for kids.

If you go, make sure you also stop and the bar for a stylish aperitivo : kids can come too and will find a selection of juices, crisps and nibbles.

Celebrate Christmas eve eating fish

Christmas eve is a big festivity in Rome and much more than just a warm-up for the big day.

Families gather on Christmas eve and celebrate the occasion with glorious meals with, usually, a fish menu.

This tradition has roots in the Christian habit of fasting or at least to eat light on the day preceding a big religious event, but over the course of the centuries it has changed and has become a gourmand extravaganza.

Salmon, oily fish and shrimps are the most popular starters and shellfish pasta and roast fillets of fish are traditional mains.

If you are renting an apartment in Rome for the festivities, which I highly recommend, you can join this tradition.

Just be aware that shops do close early on Christmas eve so any stock must be bought in the morning at the very latest.

Rome piazza Venezia a Christmas with Christmas tree and Vittoriano in the background

Join the debate: do you prefer panettone or pandoro?

Italy has many Christmas dessert and the two most famous are panettone and pandoro .

To the non-initiated, they may look similar, but Italians have very strong opinions about them and are divided into what I can only call two factions: panettone vs pandoro lovers.

Both desserts are not homemade but rather bought (in supermarkets or in their craft version in some deli shops and bakeries) and their appearance is somehow reminiscent of the one of a brioche, soft and sweet to the bite.

Italians are evangelical about preferring one of the other and while they will not hold it against you if you don’t agree with their choice, they are likely to take note of which side of the debate you are on.

So, taste aways and pick a favourite!

Load up on sweets at Rome Christmas markets

Christmas markets are not part of the Italian Christmas traditions but in the last few years they have become quite popular.

You can find some in the city and they are great places to pick up sweets, local specialities and knick-knacks.

The most famous Christmas market in Rome happens in Piazza Navona and usually runs until the 6th of January.

Buy sweet coal

Italy celebrates the epiphany (6th of January) with a very special character, la befana .

Abroad it is often referred to as Italy’s Christmas which and she is an old witch-like lady who on the night of the 5/6th of January flies around Italy on a broomstick to deliver sweet to the good kids and coal (sugar in the shape of coal, nowadays) to the naughty ones.

If you want to introduce your kids to this tradition, there is no place like to Rome to get your fix of sugar coal!

Go sightseeing

Many attractions stay open during the Christmas period, catering for the many tourists that come to Rome at this time of the year.

Cold and wet days make museums the best places to visit at this time but this doesn’t mean attractions such as the Colosseum of the Roman Forum see shorter crowds.

When sightseeing in Rome at Christmas, wrap up warm and make sure you get hold of skip the line tickets!

See the lights

In the last few years, Rome has embraces the tradition of lights and decoration to an incredible extent.

While the displays are not as impressive as the ones in, let’s say, New York (but really, who can compete with that?) the city really puts on a show.

The best areas to enjoy the Christmas lights in Rome are the streets between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Venezia (via del Corso), Trastevere and Piazza Navona.

How cold does it get in Rome in December?

December is one of the coldest months in Rome and while temperatures stay well above freezing, especially on a wet day it is wise to wrap up.

The average temperature is around 10 degrees and showers of rain are possible while, usually, short lived.

What to pack for visiting Rome at Christmas

If visiting Rome in December you will need good, warm, walking shoes, a coat (ideally waterproof) a scarf and an umbrella.

Heating is not as full on in Italy as you may be used to in other countries, so don’t expect to have to take off many layers once entering museums or restaurants.

You will find yourself keeping warm sweaters on at all times!

YOU CAN FIND MY FULL PACKING LIST FOR ROME IN WINTER HERE

Where to stay in Rome at Christmas

Christmas festivities make the already chaotic Rome public transport system unreliable, with fewer services available.

If you can, stay in the city centre, in the area around Piazza Navona or the Pantheon. The extra cost for such a location will be offset by the ease of movement.

A good alternative are the roads between the Colosseum and Rione Monti or Trastevere, which is separated from the centre by the river Tiber, but is atmospheric and very well served with local shops and restaurants.

Find here >>> my recommended hotels in the Pantheon/ Navona area

Closing hours of main Rome attraction at Christmas

Most tours and attractions will be open over Christmas and will follow standard opening hours and schedule.

However, there are some notable exceptions on Christmas eve, Christmas day, St Stephen’s day (the 26th of December), New year’s day and January the 6th.

Sites that close during Christmas in Rome

The colosseum, the forum and the Borghese gallery are closed on Christmas day and new years day

The Vatican museums are closed on all the above mentioned days, but the main square stays open, and so does the basilica

Are shops open in Rome during Christmas week?

Shops have prolonged opening hours during the Christmas weeks but do close early on the 24th of December and tend to reopen on the 27th.

While you will always find some form of food in Rome, it is best to check your local supermarket opening hours so you know don’t get stuck.

If you are really stuck for supplies, your best bet is to head to Termini station where shops are usually open even after hours and during festivities

Important note for shopping lovers: in Rome, sales do not start immediately after Christmas, you have to wait January for bargains!

Are Rome restaurants open at Christmas?

Eating out in Rome on Christmas eve and Christmas day is not always easy: many restaurants close on the 24th and the ones that are open tend to have special Christmas menu with equally ‘special’ price tags.

The same happens for new year’s eve when restaurants tend to be booked for events or offer special festive menus.

Book in advance to make sure you are happy with the deal you are offered or to do as the Romans do: stock up on food at home and join the celebrations after dinner!

I hope you enjoyed reading about Rome at Christmas. Safe travels!

Marta Correale

Marta Correale is the creator, writer and creative mind behind Learning Escapes. A travel loving mama of two from Italy, Marta currently lives in Ireland with her husband and two kids, they take frequent trips to European destination, the US and beyond. A professional travel blogger for over a decade, Marta is passionate about traveling with kids and helping others to travel more and better as a family.

6 thoughts on “ Rome at Christmas: guide for visitors ”

These are great suggestions for anybody who plans to be in Rome around Christmas time! We wish we could have experienced that time when we stayed in Rome for several months a few years ago!

great escape, Marta ! I can’t wait to make the most of your sugestions in a few days, while in Rome with my family for a few , hopefully sunny, days. By the way, wasn’t it in one of your posts that ice cream shops in Rome are open even in the coldest weather? I strongly hope so …..and not only for my grandchildren!

Oh my gosh. To see Rome all dressed up for the holidays would be a dream!

I’ve been to Rome at Easter and it was wonderful. I can’t imagine how much more magical it would be at Christmas time! I would eat Panettone every single day.

What a lovely and helpful list of activities! We’re headed to Rome for a month-long stay over the holidays and this post will be a handy reference! Thanks.

Thank you for taking the time to write a comprehensive summary. I love to travel and was in London last Christmas and will be in Rome this year, and you hit on all the key topics. Excellent!

Especially important is to consider what you can walk to on Christmas Day (and for the Christmas Eve evening meal) as transport/cabs—are usually limited if available at all. Re: food Beware meals available in tourist areas for price fix—can be very expensive–esp if you are traveling with kids. Another alternative, I’ve seen a number of posts suggesting that Rome’s Jewish quarter can be an option on these dates.

Great article!

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Rome in December: All you need to know to plan your trip

All you need to know for a trip to Rome in December. What to expect from the weather, what to pack and all you need to know about Rome at Christmas . Updated November 2023.

December is a wonderful month to visit Rome. I am from Rome and love my city in all seasons but December has a special place in my heart.

At this time, the weather is cold but it is also often bright and crisp, city life is in full swing, offering exhibitions, theater and concert galore and the city has a wonderful local feel. It is the best time to see Rome as it really is: a mix of tourism but also real life and tons of personality!

Piazza Venezia Rome at night with Christmas tree

Also, the lead up to the Christmas festivities means great shopping opportunities and seasonal activities!

However, Rome in December can also be frustrating for visitors.

While the beginning of the month is usually quiet and mostly low season, once you hit Christmas weeks things change.

Rome at Christmas is wonderful but really jam packed with people.

The experience of Rome you will have if you came in early December or over the Christmas weeks is very different: in this guide, I give an overview of what to expect during December in Rome.

You can find more specific information about Christmas festivities in Rome in my article about Rome at Christmas

This article is part of our series ‘ the best time to visit Rome ‘ – 12 monthly guides to the Eternal City.

Important : For official information and travel advisory that may affect your ability to enter Italy, please refer to your Government travel advisory. Check here for official info if traveling from US , Canada , UK , Ireland , Australia , New Zealand .

Please note: this post contains affiliate links and, should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission.

Table of Contents

Weather in Rome in December

The weather in December in Rome is usually cold and dry, with bright sky and the occasional rainy day.

December is a winter month in Rome.

The average temperature in Rome in December is 9C/49F with a range from 15C/59F to 4C/39F degrees, which means you want to wear a sweater and a good coat, scarf and closed shoes.

Usually, you have about 9 days of rain in Rome in December although recent weather patterns are making this a lot harder to predict. Overall, however, being ready for rainy days is important.

In December, you can expect short daylight hours and long evenings, so this month is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy museums and restaurants more than the outdoors.

Despite the short hours of daylight however, December can be an exceptionally bright month.

Some of my favorite photos of Rome were taken in crystal clear December blue sky days!

Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, in December, with tall decorated Christmas tree in front of St Peter's Basilica

What to wear in Rome in December

December is chilly in Rome, rather than cold, but it can be humid so the best clothing for Rome at this time is full winter attire.

Find here >>> my complete packing list for Rome in December .

If you are traveling to Rome in December, it is important to pack:

Good walking shoes (find here >>> my list of recommended shoes for Rome ), closed-toe and waterproof. I recommend two pairs should one get soaked and not dry overnight: sneakers and ankle boots or full boots work well in this season. You do not need lined boots.
Socks and/or tights
Long trousers/pants
Short sleeve tops (for layering)
Long sleeve tops
Cardigan / woolen sweater
Winter coat
Scarf, gloves, hat (Rome is humid and feels much colder than the temperature suggests)
Small umbrella
You do not usually need a thermal layer
A nice outfit if visiting over the Christmas season and planning on a nice dinner or night out. Rome is not overly dressy but a sparkly top for women and a blazer and shirt for men will make you feel comfortable if dining out during the festive season.

Festivities in December in Rome: need to know

December is an important month in Rome and even more in the Vatican City so it is important to be aware of closures and reduced opening hours that may affect museums, attractions, shops and restaurants.

Important dates to know for visiting Rome in December:

8th December (Immaculate Conception Day): this is a Catholic festivity and a date that marks the beginning of the festivities.

This is a day off for locals and it is usually the day when Christmas trees get decorated.

The most impressive one is in Piazza St Pietro (St Peter’s Square) while the one in Piazza Venezia has seen mixed fortunes (see below!)

Shops are not usually closed on this day in the city center but you may find smaller businesses shut as this is traditionally a family day

24th December (Christmas eve): Christmas eve is a big deal in Rome.

This is when families gather for a pre-Christmas dinner and when many go to midnight mass.

On the 24th of December shops do close early and reservations for dinner are necessary.

In many cases, restaurants will have set menus for Christmas dinner and prices may be higher than normal: make sure you plan for this meal in advance.

25th December (Christmas day): Christmas in Rome is traditionally a family and church day and this affects opening of attractions and shops significantly.

This is one of the very few days of the year when the Colosseum is closed (good to know: it is open for part of the 24th and 31st), the Vatican is closed (the museums, not the piazza nor the basilica) and also the Borghese Gallery

26th December (St Stephen’s day). The 26th of December is still a holiday for Italians however, many attractions open again this day so you won’t notice as much as Christmas day.

The big exception are the Vatican museums, closed on this day.

31st December (New Year’s eve): New years eve is a normal working day for most of Rome and this means it doesn’t impact much on your sightseeing.

However, it may impact on your dinner plans as many restaurants do not offer a normal service and may require advance booking and provide a special menu.

Make sure you book one you are happy with well in advance.

Traditional celebrations and gathering happen in Piazza del Popolo (careful, it gets very crowded)

Photo collage with St Peter basiclica and Trevi fountain with overlay text 'What to expect in Rome in December'

The best things to do in Rome in December

December in Rome is an ok time for sightseeing but changeable weather will call for a mix of outdoor and indoor attractions.

Places I recommend you visit in December are:

Visit the Colosseum in December

If you get a slot in the middle of the day, a visit to the Colosseum in December can be a lovely idea.

Advance booking is mandatory and you can choose the date and time of your visit: in winter, I recommend you try secure a slot in the late morning (after 11 am) or early afternoon, to avoid the chilliest hours of the day.

You can read here >> my guide about how to visit the Colosseum and ticket recommendations

Christmas Tree in front of Rome Colosseum at night with lights

The Colosseum area can get very humid!

The best value tickets for visiting the Colosseum are these ones , issued by the Colosseum management company itself, called Coopculture).

They offer several types of visit and the quality is high however, there is no flexibility with their bookings so I recommend you book only once you are sure the time and date is suitable.

If you need more flexibility, I recommend you check out our guide to the best Colosseum tickets here.

If visiting the Colosseum in December, especially towards the end of the month, wrap up as it can get chilly, especially if you go early in the morning or late in the afternoon/night.

The Colosseum ticket included access also to the Roman Forum and the Palatine hill.

I adore both the Forum and the Palatine however, especially the Palatine gets very cold this time of the year.

I only recommend visiting on a warmer day, in the hottest hours of the day or, at least, if well wrapped up!

You can find my guide to visiting the Roman Forum here.

Visit the Vatican in December

I cannot think of a better time to visit the Vatican than Christmas, especially the weeks leading up to Christmas day.

St Peters’ square in December hosts a massive tree and Nativity scene, different every year, and it is always a magical, wonderful and touching sight (even if you don’t have a religious background).

If you are going to Rome in early December this is also a good time to visit the museums.

The same cannot be said for the last week of the month: the crowds at this time are insane! Stick with the piazza and basilica only for sanity.

Make sure you get tickets in advance as there is no such thing as a truly quiet day there!

If planning a visit to the Vatican, I recommend you check out our free guides to the area:

All you need to know to plan a visit to the Vatican at Christmas

Tips for visiting St Peter basilica + highlights

How to visit the Vatican Gardens

What to see in Vatican City beside the museums

ST Peter basilica with fountain in front

Explore Rome main piazzas with Christmas trees

All Rome main piazzas can be visited this time if the year.

Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps), Piazza Venezia, and PIazza Navona in particular get lovely Christmas trees and PIazza Navona even hosts a Christmas market with a carousel!

This is a fabulous time to visit and take in the beauty of the piazzas and the seasonal atmosphere.

Also check out smaller squares such as Piazza Mattei and Piazza Mincio for a taste of local life.

In December, Rome’s local life is in full swing so as soon as you leave the most popular areas you will see the city’s living and breathing heart.

Visit Rome churches and their nativity scenes

Visiting Rome churches is always a good idea but never as good as over Christmas, an exceptionally joyful and important time for Catholicism.

During the weeks leading up to Christmas, you will find churches regularly celebrating mass and services.

These may impact your ability to visit however, there are so many churches in Rome, if you cannot get into one, you will get into the next!

Some of the many churches worth seeking out are San Luigi dei Francesi (with a famous Caravaggio), San Pietro in Vincoli (with Michelangelo’s Moses) , Santa Prassede (incredible mosaics), Santa Maria della Vittoria and Santa Maria in Trastevere, but the list could go on!

Many churches also display wonderful nativity scenes: one worth seeking out in the center is the one in Sant’Eustachio: absolutely wonderful!

You can find my list of the most beautiful churches in Rome here.

See the Borghese Gallery

The Borghese Gallery is indoors and perfect for a deep dive into art on a cold day.

The Gallery houses masterpieces by Bernini, Canova, Raffaello and many other art masters and it is one of the most beautiful museums in the world.

You can find info on how to visit the Borghese Gallery and best tickets here

Visit Piazza Navona and its Christmas market

Piazza Navona looks very different depending when in December you go visit.

At the beginning of the month, the square is a stunning vision of sculptor perfections, with masterpieces by Bernini and Borromini taking center stage in this old imperial stadium

In the second part of the month however, Piazza Navona hosts a Christmas market and fills up with stalls selling knick- knacks.

The market doesn’t compare in beauty and size with those you get in Germany or the Dolomites however, it is atmospheric and unique because of its’ incredible backdrop! Definitely worth coming here if in Rome in December.

Good to know! You can find lovely markets in Rome if you venture outside of the center and join more local events. You can find my selection of nice Christmas markets in Rome here

PIazza Navona Christmas market (send half of December)

Visit Nero’s Domus Aurea

The Domus Aurea is the lavish palace of Emperor Nero.

Build it in the I century AD as an over-the-top mansion, the Domus is now an archaeological underground dig but it is wonderful and incredibly interesting to visit.

The Domus is now underground and a wonderful, unique place to spend a cold December afternoon.

You can read my guide to the Domus Aurea and tips for visiting here .

ancient columns inside the Domus Aurea in Rome

Visit Rome’s catacombs

The catacombs of Rome are an extensive network of underground tunnels dating back to early Christian times.

The tunnels are ancient cemeteries and they are very interesting to visit in terms of experience (you find yourself many meters under Rome!) and educational value.

You can only access the catacombs with a guide and the information and stories they share are unique!

In December, the catacombs are also a good place to escape the rain: just make sure you wrap up as they are rather cold!

Among the many, I love the catacombs of St Callistus the most. Get tickets here .

Warm-up in a Rome enoteca (wine bar)

Rome may conjure up ideas of apertitivo in the piazza but in December, this is hardly ever a reality.

In Rome in December what you really want to do is warm in up in a cozy interior and this happens nowhere better than in a local enoteca, Rome’s wine bars.

Enoteche in Rome come in all shapes and sized and usually are small establishments with small tables, dark wood decor and warming food.

Go shopping

Hoping for a spot of shopping pre-Christmas?

Rome will not disappoint: whether you are looking for Rome souvenirs, gifts for Rome lovers , fashion items or anything really, Rome has something for you.

You can find my guide to the best shopping in Rome here.

Have a hot chocolate at Rome’s Chocolate factory

A wonderful way to warm up in Rome in December is with a cup of hot chocolate.

The best place for it is the wonderful SAID, Rome’s Chocolate Factory which is delicious and very pretty too!

Sweets and chocolate creations in Rome's chocolate factory

Go to a concert in the Auditorium

The Auditorium has a great program of concerts and it is social in December as it also hosts Christmas events that make this beautiful building even more special in this season.

You can find here here >> The Auditorium Official site and event calendar

Go on a food tour or cooking class

Rome’s tasty and earthy food goes exceptionally well with the change of season. This is a wonderful time of year to take a food tour and taste it all!

These are food tours worth considering:

Rome Street Food Tour with local guide
Trastevere evening Food tour
Rome epresso, gelato and tiramisu tasting tour

December in Rome is also a great time to learn to cook! A fantastic class I can recommend is this pasta making class in Trastevere by the lovely people of Walks/ City Experiences.

When you are in Rome in December, you must eat all that glorious Roman food and of course the more traditional Italian Christmas food! In this season I recommend:

Carbonara : warming and tasting and perfect for the slightly cooler weather of this season
Trippa, warming dish for the adventurous
Suppli, fried balls of rice with a melting mozzarella heart, a traditional Rome appetizer
Pizza, perfect all year round: find here >>> where to eat the best pizza in Rome
Panettone: originally from Milan, this is Italy’s most distinctive Christmas sweet
Pandoro: the big ‘rival’ of Panettone, the country is divided between those who love one over the other and those of a different opinion! Taste both and the pick a side for a real Italian food experience
Panforte: another Christmas favorite, this is an Italian Christmas cake of fruit and nuts
Ricciarelli: chewy Italian almond cookies especially popular at Christmas
And what if you want gelato? You still can! While you want to tuck in a little less than in summer, gelato is available all year round and you won’t stand out if you order one!

Go to an exhibition

Rome always have many exhibitions going on at any given time and December is a great time for museum going.

You can find here an up to date calendar of Rome events in December (In Italian, but the names and location are reasonably universal)

December in Rome with kids

December in Rome with kids can be fun but only if you come over Christmas (or immediately before), when the festive spirit compensates for the limited choice of indoor options.

However, there are some child friendly things to do in Rome in December that can be lovely add ons to the more standard visits and tours.

You can find here >>> a complete list of things to do in Rome with kids .

Take a pizza class

A fun, hands on activity for this that keeps you inside, entertained and well fed is a family pizza class . We took one with our kids one cold say in the winter and it was lots of fun.

You can book the same experience here

Go to Explora

Explora is Rome’s children museum and it is a wonderful place to explore with kids or if you are in Rome with a toddler . In December, this is an exceptionally handy place to know for a rainy day or any time the weather doesn’t seem suitable for extended hours in the park.

Take a mosaic class

A fabulous class I took with my daughter taught us to make mosaics in a stimulating, beautiful, immensely creative environment. You can read all about our experience here .

Go to a child friendly museum

While Rome only has one museum that is just for children, it also has several art museums that are children friendly.

Places my kids love are:

Museum if Illusions
Ikono Romę interactive Museum
Leonardo Exhibition
In December 2023 Rome also hosts the kid-friendly Museum of Dreams!

You can find a selection of those we enjoy the most as a family here .

Go to the free 100 Nativity scenes exhibition

St Peter’s square hosts a lovely free exhibition with 100 nativity scenes from around the world! The exhibition doesn’t take long to see, you do not need to book and it is lovely: it shows the many different way the story of the nativity is represented in different parts of the world – absolutely fascinating!

Check out the Christmas Trees

Christmas trees make their appearance in Rome in early December and the process can be fun for kids to see (I know my toddler was enchanted by the big machinery involved!)

The best one to see is the tree in St Peter’s Square but you will also find decorated trees in Piazza Venezia, near the Colosseum (this year this may be disrupted by current work going on in the area) and in other Rome piazzas.

Not all Christmas trees are as good as one another.

Notoriously, a couple of years ago Piazza Venezia had one that was so unhappy and skinny, Romans called it ‘spelacchio’ (= scraggy)! Lately it has been distinctly less scraggy but we always go check it out and the story of spelacchio is always a hit with my two!

Go ice skating

A lovely ice rink pops up at the auditorium over Christmas: it is contained and beautiful, especially later in the afternoon with the lights shining over its peculiar structure.

A wonderful Christmas activity in Rome for kids!

I hope you enjoyed this overview of Rome in December. Safe travels!

Updated 2021

My name is Marta, I am a travel-loving mama born and bred in that messy, wonderful, infuriating, awe-inspiring unbelievably beautiful city that is Rome. A classics graduate and professional travel blogger, on this site I share my insider tips to help you plan your dream trip to Rome, Italy.

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Celebrate Christmas in Rome 2023 | Christmas Feasts, Concerts, Tours, and more!

The city of Rome takes its celebrations seriously, and that includes Christmas time. Every holiday season, the city beckons tourists with its plethora of things to do on Christmas in Rome. Read on to explore your options during Christmas in Rome with the fun-filled ways Romans express their Christmas cheer!

Why Spend Christmas in Rome?

As the month of December is right smack in the middle of the off-season for tourists, most of the city's attractions and events will be free of the bustling crowds of tourists.
Many of the attractions in Rome are decked up especially for the holiday season while offering Christmas-exclusive events and activities.
Christmas in Rome is a haven for those who are more inclined towards the more traditional, cultural aspects of the holiday season.
The weather is quite pleasant during winter in Rome , as the occurrence of snowfall is rare, and the slight chill in the air adds a festive atmosphere to your travel.

Top 9 Things to do on Christmas in Rome

1. Attend Christmas Mass

The Christmas mass is one of the most significant events during the holiday in Rome, and one that’s typically free to attend in most places. This tradition is followed throughout Rome, but there’s a few you simply cannot miss.

The most popular locations for Christmas Mass are:

St Peter's Basilica
All Saints' Anglican Church | Find on map
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Nativity Scenes in Rome

2. Check Out Nativity Scenes

Yet another cultural gem of Rome on Christmas, the nativity scenes (or the Presepe) can be seen all throughout the city - even in most shop displays. To gaze at some notable nativity scenes, going to popular churches is a good idea.

Here are the locations for the best nativity scenes:

St Peter's Square | Find on map
Church of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli | Find on map
Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Christmas Trees in Rome

3. Admire the Christmas Trees

Some of the most awe-inspiring Christmas trees can be found standing tall in the middle of popular public spaces, with glittering lights and decorations abound. After all, there’s nothing like seeing a majestic Christmas tree to get you in the Christmas spirit!

Locate the best Christmas trees in Rome at:

Piazza Venezia | Find on map
Imperial Forums | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Christmas Markets in Rome

4. Explore the Christmas Markets

The usual markets in Rome get a whole new festive makeover, come Christmas time. Expect to purchase Christmas-exclusive goods, Christmas ornaments, vintage goods and antiques, candy coal, crafts, and more!

Find Rome's best Christmas markets at:

Piazza Navona | Find on map
Piazza Mazzini | Find on map
Cinecittà World | Find on map
Borghese Gardens | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Christmas Food in Rome

5. Relish Christmas Food

As Christmas anywhere is incomplete without a hearty meal to fill you up, don’t forget to sample the season’s offerings in Rome by heading to eateries frequented by locals and Christmas markets!

Know about Roman Christmas food and where you can find it:

Pandoro at Pasticceria Gruè | Find on map
Panettone at Eataly | Find on map
Seafood at Hotel Hassler | Find on map
Limoncello from Carrefour | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Christmas Concerts in Rome

6. Head to a Christmas Concert

Fans of classical music will love Christmas in Rome, as almost all the stages in auditoriums and churches are taken up by choirs and performers putting on their renditions of classic holiday music.

The best Christmas concerts in Rome are:

The Three Tenors in Rome at St Paul's Within the Walls Church, Via Nazionale | Find on map
Baroque Christmas Concert at Capuchin Crypt, Via Vittorio Veneto | Find on map
Rome Opera Christmas Concerts at St Andrew’s Church of Scotland, Via Venti Settembre | Find on map
Christmas Concert at the Auditorium of Ponte Sant'Angelo in Rome | Find on maps

Christmas in Rome - Christmas Lights in Rome

7. Gaze at the Christmas Lights

The first Christmas lights are put up around early December, right from the Immaculate Conception, so by Christmas, all the streets of Rome reflect a blindingly bright spirit of the holiday season.

Spot the most beautiful Christmas lights at:

Piazza di Spagna | Find on map
Via dei Condotti | Find on map
Via del Corso | Find on map

8. Go Ice Skating

A festive activity that warms you up in the midst of the chill of the Roman winter, ice skating in one of the city’s many rinks has recently become a tourist favorite, especially on Christmas. So strap your skates in and prepare for some graceful festive gliding!

The best ice rinks on Christmas are:

Castel Sant'Angelo | Find on map
Piazzale Ankara | Find on map
Auditorium Parco della Musica | Find on map
Galleria Porta di Roma | Find on map

Christmas in Rome - Take a Tour on Christmas in Rome

9. Experience a Hassle-Free Tour

As December is the low season for tourism in Rome, you can make the best of it by experiencing fewer crowds, queues - and of course, the opportunity to take some of the best tours in Rome during a quieter (and more festive) time.

Top Experiences in Rome

Frequently asked questions about celebrating christmas in rome.

With the city putting up Christmas-exclusive events, markets, decorations and cultural traditions during the month of December , Christmas is a great time to visit Rome .

Do as the Romans do on Christmas by taking your skates out for a spin on the many ice skating rinks in Rome , digging into some irresistible Christmas fare like Panettone, attending Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, and more.

Winter in Rome is not particularly chilly, with average daily temperatures only going as low as 7°C. Snowfall is rare, but rain showers tend to occur throughout the month.

Surprisingly, Rome is not as crowded with tourists as you would expect during Christmas. This makes it a great time to go sightseeing!

Most attractions in Rome are closed during Christmas Day, and so are most eateries. It is always best to check what's open around you as you head out to get a meal on December 25th.

Piazza Navona is, hands down, the most popular Christmas market in Rome - and also the biggest. Some other popular Christmas markets are the ones in Auditorium Parco della Musica and Piazza Mazzini.

With the exception of some restaurants that offer special Christmas menus to celebrate the holiday season, most restaurants are closed on Christmas Day.

It is advised to stay around Monti during Christmastime in Rome, as this area is the closest to almost all the Christmassy activities - whether you want to see the Christmas tree at the Colosseum or attend Christmas Mass at the Pantheon .

Indulge in well-loved Christmas delicacies in Rome by getting some pandoro and panettone , as the Romans love their desserts during the holiday season. Another culinary tradition in Rome during Christmas is eating seafood instead of meat.

Hotel Hassler and Bucavino are Roman favorites for a Christmas meal, as their delectable Christmas menu offers both gourmet and authentic flavors to your tastebuds.

You can marvel at rows and rows of glittering Christmas lights at Piazza di Spagna and Piazza Venezia, as both these notable streets have the best views of Christmas lights to offer.

Apart from merrymaking by gorging on Christmassy desserts, Romans celebrate their Christmas by attending Midnight Mass at the Vatican, consuming seafood instead of meat, and often displaying a ceppo in their households.

Visiting Rome at Christmas: Your Guide for 2023

Alexander Meddings

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PUBLISHED ON Nov 29, 2022

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Christmas is our favourite time of the year in Rome.

The usually bustling capital is calmer and less crowded than during the hectic summer months while the myriad of Christmas lights that illuminate the city’s cobbled streets add a special romantic sheen to the already stunning centre. Best of all, Rome’s winter climate is characterised by clear, sunny days and chilly, but never freezing nights (more on this later), making this the perfect time to visit.

We’ve written this guide to share all our insider knowledge for spending Christmas 2023 in Rome. If you’re looking for inspiration for the best things to do around Christmas this year, click on the link in the contents and it’ll take you straight there. If you want to learn all about Rome’s Christmas traditions and how you should plan your visit then just keep reading!

History & Traditions

As Roman paganism predated Christianity by some 700 years, the ancient Romans didn’t celebrate Christmas but the Saturnalia – a seven-day festival held in honour of Saturn, the god of time, abundance, and renewal.

Starting on December 17th, the Romans would invert their social conventions in imitation of the Golden Age that preceded Saturn’s mythical deposition. Masters would host banquets for their slaves, carnivalic celebrations would fill the streets, and the Romans would exchange small gifts – a tradition that has since infused today’s Christmas traditions.

The poet Catullus, who came up with the saying Carpe Diem , once called the Saturnalia optimo dierum – “the best of days.” It’s fair to say that Christmas in Rome still fits the bill.

While the tradition of gift-giving thrives in Rome as around the world, you won’t find many other remnants of the pagan Saturnalia in Rome’s streets or homes. Instead, today’s Italian capital assumes pride of place at the global table of Christian Christmas celebrations. This is in no small part because of the presence of the Vatican City —the centre of Christianity—which becomes a focal point of festivities between the Day of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th and the Epiphany on January 6th.

Today’s Italian Christmas traditions are very similar to ours, with a few exceptions.

Instead of Santa Claus delivering gifts on Christmas Eve, it is La Befana , an ugly benevolent witch, who brings good children gifts and bad children coal on January 6th. (In reality, Italians have adapted to Anglo-American traditions, opening their gifts on Christmas Eve).

Food plays an unsurprisingly crucial role in Italian Christmas traditions. Panettone and pandoro are given and gorged upon in considerable quantity from early December onwards while December 24th is seafood-centered in honour of the Feast of the Seven Fishes .

The Best Things to do in Rome at Christmas

Christmas is by far the best time of year to visit the attractions that are so busy during summer. Our small-group Colosseum tours and Vatican tours are smaller still in the low season, and the lack of crowds and extra attention you get from your guide makes the experience even more worthwhile.

But there are plenty of other ways to take advantage of the lack of crowds and mild weather. Here are our top recommendations.

Stroll or cycle the Appian Way

Winter is the best time to journey down Rome’s oldest road, the Via Appia Antica . Built in the late 4th century BC, the Via Appia runs southeast from near the Circus Maximus to the southern city of Brindisi (though you couldn’t make it this far, even if you wanted to, as many parts remain buried underground).

There’s plenty to see as the Appian Way is lined with tombs, catacombs , and sprawling imperial villas. Set off early to make sure you’re not out after dark; this 2,000-year-old road isn’t very well illuminated!

See the Fidia exhibition at the Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums is hosting Fidia , their first monographic exhibition based on the works of the Classical Era’s greatest sculptor. This fascinating exhibition documents the life and times of the creator of world wonders and famous monuments, including the Parthenon, the mythical chryselephantine colossi of Athena Parthenos (that long word just means it was covered with gold and ivory), and the colossi of Zeus.

A legendary figure, Fidia’s life is shrouded in mystery. We know nothing about many details of his life through a vast and valuable selection of more than 100 works – including archaeological finds, Greek originals and Roman replicas, paintings, manuscripts, and drawings, some exhibited for the first time. A creative genius who still inspires contemporaries – Fidia is not to be missed.

Snap shots of Rome’s Christmas Tree

Seeing the sorry state of Rome’s Norwegian Spruce in 2017, you’d have been forgiven for thinking Italy and Norway were at war. So traumatised and depilated did it look that locals bestowed on it the nickname Lo Spelacchio (the bald one), much to the embarrassment of the authorities.

'Spelacchio' Christmas Tree in 2017. Photo credit: Panorama

The tradition has stuck, however, and now every Christmas Tree that has graced the central roundabout of Piazza Venezia since 2017 is called Lo Spelacchio —no matter how flourishing its foliage.

This year’s tree is infinitely more Instagram friendly so get down to Piazza Venezia after sunset to snap some shots against its lights!

See the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square

You can find nativity scenes ( presepi , as they’re called in Italian) all around Rome at Christmas. Every church has its own, with the most charming and intricate exhibited within the Basilica of Saints Cosma and Damiano just behind the Roman Forum. But the most famous nativity scene is the life-size artwork in Saint Peter’s Square.

Though the size and dimensions of the nativity vary year on year, the Vatican’s nativity scene and Christmas Tree are always the most tasteful and majestic in Rome. This year’s nativity will evoke the first living nativity, created by St Francis in a cave in Greccio, north of Rome, in 1223. It’s the nativity’s 800th anniversary!

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Visiting Rome’s Christmas Markets

While Rome’s historic city hosts several low-key Christmas markets, the best ones (and the only ones really worth visiting) are situated on the peripheries: in the north, at Villa Borghese and Piazza della Vittoria, and in the south at Cinecittà.

Christmas World at Villa Borghese

From December 3rd until January 8th, Villa Borghese’s riding track will host Christmas World . Among its attractions, visitors will be able to skate on the ice rink, meet Santa in his grotto, go shopping at the toy factory and enjoy plenty of tasty treats at the food stalls!

Attending the Vatican’s Christmas Eve Mass

Known as Midnight Mass or Natale del Signore, Christmas Eve Mass is one of the most important events in the Vatican’s liturgical calendar. The Mass is celebrated in Saint Peter’s Basilica, partly because of its ceremonial significance and partly because of its capacity to accommodate more than 60,000 people.

How to get tickets

You must reserve tickets in advance to attend Christmas Eve Mass or any other papal audience event. Tickets are free, but to obtain them you have to fill out this form and fax it to the Vatican (+39 06 698 85863) at least two months in advance.

After faxing this form, you can expect to receive a letter from the Church stating that they have received your request, but this is not a confirmation letter. To get this, you must go to the Prefettura Office 4 to 5 days before the mass to collect your tickets.

What time is Christmas Eve Mass?

The service starts at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday 24th December. If you cannot attend in person, you can always stream the service via the Vatican’s YouTube channel.

What to do in Rome on Christmas Eve

What to eat for Christmas Eve dinner

Here are our top recommendations for where to eat Christmas dinner in Rome :

Siciliainbocca . Sicilian cuisine is delicious, and nowhere in Rome does it better than Siciliainbocca . Last year on Christmas Eve they served up such delights as orange and fennel salad, pasta with sardines, and such seafood secondi as baccalà al nero di seppia .
Gourmand’s Restaurant (The Building Hotel) . Centrally situated not far from Termini Station, Gourmand’s Restaurant serves up a deliicous Here’s their New Year’s Eve menu to get a taste of what they offer.
La Pergola (Waldorf Astoria Hotel) . If money is no issue, you can find no finer dining that at the La Pergola . Situated on a hill overlooking the Vatican in the Balduina neighbourhood, Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant serves up a menu alla carta matched only by its views.

Celebrating Christmas Day in Rome

Most businesses close on Christmas Day so people can spend the day with their family. The Vatican is closed on December 25th and 26th and on January 1st while the Colosseum is closed on December 25th and January 1st. Be aware that the Colosseum operates reduced opening hours during winter (9:00 am – 4:30 pm with last entrance at 3:30).

What to eat for Christmas Dinner

Winter weather in Rome

Rome’s climate is Mediterranean, which means cold, but never freezing winters. Average temperatures hover between 7-10°C (45-50°F) with six hours of sunshine per day and sunsets between 4:30 and 5:00 pm.

Rain is the only slight inconvenience during Italian winters. Average rainfall is 111mm spread across the month so you’ll want to pack something waterproof or buy an umbrella while here. But on the whole this is the most temperate time of year to explore the city, as it’s not too hot and never really too cold.

View from the Janiculum Hill over Rome at Christmas

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Alexander Meddings is a professional copywriter and postgraduate in Roman history from the University of Oxford. After graduating with his MPhil, he moved to Florence and then Rome to carry out his research on the ground and pursue his passion at the source. He now works in travel, as a writer and content consultant, and in education as a university lecturer and translator.

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Rome At Christmas
Christmas Events in Rome

Christmas Events in Rome and Things to Do 2023

By Elyssa Bernard

November 16, 2023

What are the best Christmas Events in Rome?

From Christmas markets to concerts to tree lightings to Vatican events, find out what's happening in Rome at Christmas this year!

Christmas Events in Rome 2023

Christmas is a magical time of year to be in Rome. The city is beautifully lit up with decorations, lights, and even some Christmas trees, and there is a festive feeling in the air.

On this page you'll find updated Christmas Events in Rome for 2023 including:

Christmas markets in Rome

Christmas decorations around Rome
Christmas trees and lights in Rome

Nativity scenes around Rome

Christmas concerts in rome, christmas tours to take in rome.

December 8 - Immacolata
December 24 - Christmas Eve
December 25 - Christmas Day
December 26 - Santo Stefano
January 6 - Epiphany/Befana

Without a doubt, one of the most popular Christmas events in Rome is the opening of the Piazza Navona Christmas market and fair.

While this has gone through a lot of changes in recent years, it's still where tourists and locals alike flock every year to enjoy the holiday feel.

When is the Christmas market in Piazza Navona going up in 2023? It has been confirmed as taking place from December 8 - January 6, find out all about the Piazza Navona Christmas Market in Rome, along with other Rome Christmas markets on my dedicated page.

Christmas decorations and lights around Rome

There are two types of Roman Christmas decorations to look for - the ones that private companies like shops, restaurants and hotels put up, and the ones that the city puts up.

When do Christmas decorations start going up in Rome?

Honestly there is no one answer to this. It seems to me that each year they go up at different times.

If you're coming to Rome in early - mid November , I would not count on seeing too many Christmas decorations but you will see a few because many shops, hotels, and restaurants start getting their act together, in part to attract customers.

You will really see Christmas decorations and lights in Rome in full force by early December .

Christmas trees and lighting events in Rome

Like Christmas Markets, Christmas trees are not really part of the Italian festive traditions.

Both of these are more common in northern European countries.

But typically we have two major Christmas trees in Rome - one at Piazza Venezia and one in St Peter's Square at the Vatican.

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Vatican Christmas tree lighting - 2023

In 1982 during the pontificate of Pope John Paul II , the first Christmas tree went up in Saint Peter's Square .

Pope John Paul II was Polish and perhaps he wanted to bring just a bit of his Christmas culture to the Vatican.

This new tradition was very popular, and every year since then, different European countries (or regions within Italy) vie for the honor of donating the tree to the Holy See.

Vatican Square Christmas tree and nativity

Typically the tree gets lit sometime in early December and stays up sometime around the 6th of January or just after that date.

When will the Vatican Christmas display tree be lit in 2023?

In 2023, the tree will be lit on Saturday December 9 at 5:00pm.

Also for 2023, the Vatican will recreate the first living Nativity scene of St Francis on the 800th anniversary of its creation in Greccio north of Rome in 1223.

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Piazza Venezia Christmas Tree lighting - 2023

There usually is a tree in Piazza Venezia but due to construction this year, the tree will be in Piazza del Popolo.

The tree will be lit on December 8th and stays up through the 6th of January or maybe a day or two after that.

The perfect 3-day itinerary in Rome

Trying to figure out how to organize your visit to Rome? I've got the perfect 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors (or those who have not been here in a while.) It works for a 2.5 day visit as well.

In my 3-day itinerary, you'll see all the major must-see Rome attractions like the Vatican , Colosseum , Trevi Fountain , Pantheon , Piazza Navona , Spanish Steps , Castel Sant'Angelo , and much more.

And if you have more time, or want suggestions for extra/other things to do, you'll find that there too.

Visit my page with the best 3-day itinerary in Rome for first-timers .

You pretty much cannot walk into a church in Rome during Christmastime and not see a nativity scene ( presepe in Italian.)

They vary in size and quality but often are beautiful and intricate.

The most popular nativity scenes around Rome are the ones at Piazza di Spagna (Spanish Steps), and at Vatican Square .

Some churches may also have a collection of nativity scenes in the form of a kind of museum exhibit.

In 2023 in St Peter's Square, the Vatican will recreate the first living Nativity scene of St Francis on the 800th anniversary of its creation in Greccio north of Rome in 1223. Starting on December 9th.

There are many opportunities for enjoying a Christmas concert in Rome.

The concerts put on by the Vatican are often either not open to the general public or are very difficult to get tickets for. But they are live-streamed.

And there are plenty of other concerts around Rome during the Christmas holidays as well.

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Vatican Christmas concerts in Rome

The below are official Vatican Christmas concerts .

On December 17, 2023 , you can attend the Christmas concert inside the beautiful cathedral of San Giovanni in Laterano, Saint John in Lateran .

You can visit their website for photos and more details.

On December 16, 2023 , you can attend the Christmas concert i n Auditorium Conciliazione in Rome . -

More Christmas concerts in Rome - 2023

Some of the below are Rome Christmas concerts normally held every year.

I will continue to monitor the situation and update this page when there is anything new to report.

For a unique and solemn experience, attend the Christmas Baroque Concert inside Rome's Capuchin Crypt .

December 21, 26, and 28, 2023 . From 83€.

Optional dinner available.

Listen to a Christmas concert with a variety of holiday songs , from opera arias to classics like White Christmas and Jingle Bells.

Enjoy a light aperitivo of snacks and sparkling wine after the show, together with the artists.

December 22, 23, 26, 29 and 30, 2023 . From 37€.

Check out the Rome Gospel Festival at the Rome Auditorium .

There will be a special Christmas Day concert by the Harlem Gospel Choir.

Tickets from $20.

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These tours are available only during the Christmas season.

Some are available on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and others are not available those days.

Click each link to see details and more tour options.

Enjoy the Holiday atmosphere in Rome with a local .

Visit all the best shopping areas and see Rome's streets lit up for the Christmas season. Take in the city's nativity scenes and spot a few Christmas trees. One drink included.

Wheelchair accessible .

Learn all about the Christmas traditions in Rome on this Nativities and Angels tou r , taking you on a walking tour across the historic center of Rome.

Starting in Piazza del Popolo and ending in St Peter's Square this a great way to see Rome's decorations!

Ready to plan your trip?

Important Dates on the Christmas Calendar and Things to Do

The below are the most important dates in the Christmas Calendar in Rome.

December 8 - Immacolata/Immaculate conception

December 8, the Immaculate Conception, or Immacolata , is the official beginning of the Christmas season in Italy.

There are two major Christmas events in Rome on this day, both involving the Pope:

Angelus with Pope Francis in Saint Peter's Square

Throughout the year, you can attend the Angelus in Saint Peter's Square on Sundays when the pope is in town.

On December 8, you can also attend the Angelus at noon in Vatican Square.

The changing of the wreath of the virgin Mary

In Piazza Mignanelli, next to the piazza at the bottom of the Spanish Steps , you can spot this column with the Virgin Mary at the top.

All year long, she holds a wreath.

Every December 8 at 4:30pm , Pope Francis comes to change the wreath that Mary is holding.

In reality, this is done by firemen, but the pope is (usually) in attendance.

This has become very popular in recent years and due to security, you will need to get there quite early to get close enough.

December 24 - La Vigilia di Natale/Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is one of the most important dates on the Christmas calendar for Italians.

Most Italians I know (or at least Alessandro and his family) care more about the fish-based dinner on Christmas Eve than the lunch on Christmas Day.

We make a big seafood dinner, followed by panettone and pandoro , and we open gifts at midnight (not on Christmas morning).

Wondering where to eat dinner on Christmas? Visit my dedicated page here.

The Feast of the 7 Fishes

The Feast of the 7 Fishes is delicious and a lot of fun, but it's not Roman or Italian .

It's an Italian American tradition so you won't find it celebrated anywhere in Rome.

Many churches around Rome, including the Pantheon , offer Midnight Mass.

If you plan to attend midnight mass at the Pantheon, you will need to come early as space is always limited.

Christmas events in Rome - midnight mass in Saint Peter's Basilica

If you want to attend Midnight Mass at the Vatican on Christmas Eve, first you should know it's not actually at midnight but at 9 or 10pm.

Visit my page here to find out how to request tickets to attend mass inside Saint Peter's Basilica.

December 25 - Natale/Christmas Day

Well, on a page about Christmas Events in Rome, the big day is obviously Christmas Day, Natale .

Just about everything is closed in Rome this day but there are exceptions.

NEW FOR CHRISTMAS DAY 2023 - The Colosseum will be open from 9 am to 1 pm.

Vatican Christmas events in Rome

On December 25, you can attend the Urbi et Orbi at 12 noon in St. Peter’s Square .

The event is free and open to everyone.

Music/theater Christmas events in Rome on Christmas Day 2023

There are two shows of the Harlem Gospel Choir at the Rome Auditorium, at 5:30 PM and at 9:00 PM.

The show is available on several dates but it's also nice to know you can enjoy this on Christmas Day itself.

Other things you can do on Christmas Day in Rome include:

Walk around and enjoy the quiet city center
Visit the Christmas Market in Piazza Navona - confirmed for 2022
Visit the Christmas Market in Piazza del Popolo
Visit churches and nativity scenes
Enjoy a big Christmas lunch

December 26 - Saint Steven/Santo Stefano

Saint Steven's Day is dedicated to the first Christian Martyr.

While in Many Anglo-Saxon countries, this is a day to shop post-Christmas, in Italy it is considered an extension of the Christmas holiday season.

Shops and the Vatican Museums remain closed.

Even when shops do reopen on December 27, you will not find after-Christmas sales as you'd find in the USA or other countries.

Winter sales in Italy begin the first Saturday after New Year's Day .

However, just about every other site and museum is open on this day, so it's a great time do some sight-seeing in Rome.

There aren't any specific Christmas events in Rome on this day after Christmas, but you can enjoy the markets, lights, and decorations as well as the Christmas Markets and other Rome attractions.

January 6 - The Epiphany/La Befana

January 6 is the Epiphany , also known as the Day of the Kings .

In Italy we celebrate it but it also has another name, La Befana .

On this last day of Christmas events in Rome, you can attend the Viva La Befana procession on the Via della Conciliazione leading to the Vatican.

While the Epiphany does celebrate the arrival of the Magi to visit the Christ child, the Befana story combines a bit more local folklore.

The tradition of the Befana in Italy is actually very old, and there are several versions of the story.

Basically the Befana is portrayed as an old hag or witch, who was sweeping her house when the Magi stopped by. Perhaps she gave them food and shelter. Or maybe they just needed to rest. Either way, they were impressed by her tidy house and asked her to join them in bringing their gifts to the baby Jesus.

She declined but once they were gone, she changed her mind. She looked everywhere but couldn't find the baby Jesus, so she gave the toys she had brought with her to other children.

The tradition in Italy is for children to receive small gifts and toys on the Befana .

The Befana is the last of the Christmas Events in Rome. Things to do include:

Attending the Viva La Befana procession
Attending the Papal Mass
Attending the Angelus in Saint Peter's Square at noon
Visiting the Christmas Market in Piazza Navona and buying some befanas and other toys for yourself and/or family and friends - confirmed for 2022

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Rome In December: Ultimate Rome Winter Guide (2024)

I first visited Rome in December and it is one of the most magical trips I have ever taken.

It’s such a special time to visit Rome for so many reasons and the fact it was my first-ever solo trip, makes it even more special for me.

That being said, before visiting, I was concerned it might be a wasted trip compared to visiting Rome in the sunny summer.

But thankfully, it wasn’t! But I’m here to provide a complete guide to Rome in December so that you won’t have any worries before your trip.

Is December A Good Time To Go To Rome?

In one word, yes! December is without a doubt an amazing time to visit Rome.

There are lots of reasons to visit but the main reasons are fewer crowds, of course, cheaper prices, Christmas festivities and not to forget, decent weather!

I absolutely loved my time in Rome at this time of year and having since visited in the summer too, I actually prefer December!

Rome Weather In December

Rome in December experiences colder temperatures than in other months (obviously) but it is by no means miserable and rainy all day every day.

You can expect an average daily temperature of 9.5ºC (or 49ºF) throughout the course of the day. Obviously it’s going to be warmer than that in midday and colder than that during the night. But in my opinion, that weather is pretty good for December!

The temperature is pretty good during the day, but it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings. Make sure to bring a jacket because there are so many amazing Rome night tours .

Though when I visited, it felt like Summer back home in the UK! The skies were blue, the sun was shining and I could walk around without a jacket on.

A picture of the Roman Forum in Rome in December. It shows a clear, blue sky with the sun shining in the corner.

It only rained once during my 4 days in Rome , but I think I might have just been very lucky! You should expect some rain when visiting Rome in December, but don’t let it put you off- the weather, for the most part, is perfect.

Warm enough to feel nice, but not too warm to make walking around Rome uncomfortable, which was a nice balance.

Also, if you are wondering, it more than likely won’t snow during your trip to Rome. There are only 4 cases of snow in Rome since 1986 . The climate isn’t really suited for snow.

What To Expect In Rome In December

When visiting Rome in December, you should naturally have completely different expectations from someone visiting Rome in the Summer months.

If you are visiting Rome in December, expect Rome to be relatively quiet. Of course, there will be tourists- it’s Rome- but it isn’t very busy at all.

But you can walk around the Colosseum without rubbing shoulders with someone, you can actually see the Spanish steps instead of hundreds of people sitting on them, you can get a photo at the Trevi Fountain if you wait in turn (you’d wait hours in Summer), and you can walk into the Vatican Museums with little to no queue.

It’s so different to visiting in peak season. I remember I expected the Colosseum to be packed, but there were maybe only a few hundred people there , which compared to the thousands there normally are, was a welcomed surprise.

A picture of the Spanish Steps with only a few people on them.

And with fewer crowds come lower prices. As it is not peak tourism season for Rome, prices are generally slightly lower than they would be in the Summer months. Not huge amounts, but every penny counts, right?

You can also expect Rome to be decorated beautifully for Christmas . I expected Rome to have some Christmas festivities being the home of Catholicism, but I didn’t expect just how blown away I would be by the Christmassyness of Rome in December. This leads onto…

Holidays In December In Rome

Italy and Rome in particular are predominantly Christian – Rome is home to the Vatican after all. This means that Christmas is very widely celebrated in Rome on the 25th of December each year.

Which means in late November and December, in the lead-up to Christmas, Rome completely transforms and somehow becomes even more beautiful. Seeing the decorations was one of my favourite parts about visiting around Christmas time.

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Rome, but in December, I would push it to 4. Having an extra day in December is really worth it, as the city is completely transformed.

Personally, I spent 4 days in Rome and it was great having some spare time to experience some of the festivities.

The lights, Christmas decorations, and HUGE Christmas trees throughout Rome, really make it feel like a big Santa’s grotto. My favourite Christmas tree is the one in Piazza Venezia, the busiest piazza in Rome. It’s simply spectacular. Photos really can’t and don’t do it justice.

A picture of me in front of the Christmas Tree in Piazza Venezia.

A second-place shoutout goes to the Vatican City Christmas tree. It is also very impressive. The Vatican was very beautiful at Christmas, the nativity display was amazing too .

If you are in Rome over Christmas, the Pope addresses Vatican City during his Christmas Day speech. Of course, there is also mass on Christmas Eve, in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Watching the Pope’s speech on Christmas would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, and a special moment too.

All in all, the Vatican at Christmas is just incredible.

A picture of the Nativity display in St. Peter's square.

Throughout Rome, there is also a buzz in December, in the lead-up to Christmas, everyone is in the Christmas spirit. It would be common to say “Merry Christmas” when saying goodbye to someone, for example.

The city really gets festive, and there are Christmas markets in Piazza Navona . The markets are small but filled with lots of Christmas goodies.

The Christmas Markets in Piazza Navona in Rome in December.

You should have high expectations for Rome regardless of when you visit. The city is extraordinary, but in my opinion, Rome in December is that tiny little bit better than at any other time of the year!

What To Wear In Rome In December

Me standing outside the Pantheon in a typical outfit for Rome in December: jeans, t-shirt and sweatshirt.

As I said, Rome can get pretty chilly in the mornings and evenings, so you’ll want to have appropriate clothing.

During my 4 days in Rome, I wore long bottoms (usually jeans, but sometimes jogging bottoms for comfort) and a t-shirt with a sweatshirt, and I always carried a jacket or coat for when it got cold.

Make sure your layers can be taken on and off as needed. As you probably won’t need to wear your jacket during the sunny daytime but will need to wear it as the sun begins to go down (around 4.30 pm in December).

It’s especially important to stay warm, as the best way to get around Rome is by walking.

I did see some people wearing shorts, but I wouldn’t recommend it. You also can’t wear these if you visit the Vatican or any churches. Remember to dress respectfully – as a basic rule of thumb, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered .

Where to Stay in Rome in December

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No matter what time of the year you decide to visit Rome, I always have the same hotel recommendations.

If you ask me, the best area of Rome to stay in is near Roma Termini. It’s the central station in Rome and it’s right in the heart of the city. Everything is within walking distance and you are close to all of the main sights and attractions.

The best hotel for your money is the Seven Hotel. It’s got a very high rating on Booking with a score of 8.8/10. The rooms are very modern and stylish- fitting in perfectly with the theme of Rome. It’s also got heating in the rooms which might be welcomed in December. And I normally recommend getting the bus from Fiumicino , but Seven actually has its own shuttle bus. It is so useful and takes away all the stress of arriving in a new city.

If Seven is a little out of your budget then I recommend the Raeli Hotel Regio . It’s a budget hotel so it’s not quite a hotel with a view of the Colosseum , but it’s definitely good value for money. Rome is a city where you spend little time in the hotel anyway, so it doesn’t really matter where you stay, as long as you have somewhere to sleep, right? Raeli Hotel Regio is the perfect place to sleep on a smaller budget.

➡️ Best hotel in Rome: Seven ➡️ Best budget-friendly hotel in Rome: Raeli Hotel Regio

Best Things To Do In Rome In December

Before visiting Rome in December, you may wonder what there is to do.

Of course, there are things which you should do when you visit Rome no matter what time of the year it is such as taking a tour of the Colosseum , making a wish at the Trevi Fountain etc., but I am not going to include these as these are year-round activities.

So here are 5 things to do exclusively in December while in Rome.

1. Go Christmas Tree hunting

This is one of the best things to do in Rome at night in December. The city is full of beautiful trees and decorations.

Around every corner and in every main square is a huge tree with some of the best decorations you will ever see.

As I said before, my favourite is in Piazza Venezia . A bonus with this tree is that it is also fully powered by solar panels surrounding the base of the tree.

2. Visit the Nativity at the Vatican

Another free thing to do in Rome in December (free things are great to do if you are visiting Rome on a budget ) is to see the Nativity display in St. Peter’s Square.

It’s even better if you visit on Christmas Eve after the baby Jesus has been added to complete the display – but it’s still worth seeing if you visit before this.

It’s definitely the best Nativity scene I have seen.

The Christmas Nativity Scene in Vatican City.

3. Explore the Christmas Markets in Piazza Navona

The Christmas Markets in Piazza Navona offer a fun and traditional activity for Christmas time in Rome.

It’s not quite a full-blown German Christmas Market, but there are wooden huts selling Christmas goodies and food (mainly yummy sweet treats), with some carnival games and a Carousel. I still enjoyed a walk around.

Regardless of the markets, seeing the square is a must when visiting Rome for the first time . It’s one of the famous must-dos.

4. Attend midnight mass in St. Peter’s Basilica

Midnight between Christmas Eve (24th December) and Christmas Day (25th December) is marked in the Vatican by attending mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Tickets are required to attend but they are free, so make sure you apply for tickets in advance if you plan to attend.

St. Peter’s Basilica is the largest church in the world, and the mass ceremony surely won’t be one to forget. Even though it’s “midnight mass”, it’s actually now held at 10 p.m .

5. Listen to the Pope’s Christmas address

The Pope showers his blessings in the Vatican twice a year, once at Easter and once at Christmas.

And if you’re in Rome over Christmas, you have the chance to attend and experience something extremely unique.

On Christmas morning, the Pope delivers an address to Vatican City, which you can attend to listen to and watch one of the Pope’s infamous Christmas speeches. The atmosphere is also great, with lots of festivities such as singing Christmas carols.

The pope offering his blessings on Christmas day.

Below are a few FAQs related to Rome in December, along with my answers.

Rome is amazing to visit at Christmas. Seeing the city decorated in lights and Christmas decorations is beautiful. Vatican City, in particular, is very pretty at Christmas time.

Rome has short but relatively warm and sunny days in December. However, the mornings and evenings get very chilly.

Rome is not too cold in December. You can expect average daily highs of 13°C (55°F) and average daily lows of 5°C (41°F). It’s only really chilly in the mornings and evenings, during the day it is fine.

Not at all. The crowds in Rome in December are very low. You don’t have to queue for hours to get into the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain isn’t flooded with crowds- it’s very nice and bearable as a tourist.

Yes, you can! In fact, Rome is amazing to visit in December. Rome is decorated for Christmas and it is absolutely breathtaking. Not to mention, there are low crowds and good weather.

Without a doubt, yes, it’s absolutely worth visiting in December! Rome is beautiful when it is decorated for Christmas. It is also significantly less busy, with fewer crowds. And the weather is okay too!

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, a complete guide to visiting Rome in December . Before I booked my trip, I too wondered if it would be worth visiting Rome in the winter months, but I am so glad I did.

I had the best time ever, I absolutely loved Rome and I would recommend to anyone that the best time to go is in December.

For other reasons mentioned throughout this article: Christmas decorations- wow; fewer crowds- who wants crowds; okay weather- can’t complain for December; cheaper prices- prices are down as it’s not peak season.

To me, it’s a no-brainer on whether to visit in December or not.

So if you book a trip to Rome in December, I hope you have a great time and enjoy your trip! It will be one of the best trips of your life for sure. Rome is a real-life fairy tale.

Now that you’ve decided it’s a great time of year to visit Rome, it’s time to start planning things to do. I’d recommend a food tour of Rome , especially at this time of year.

Josh Band is the founder of A Backpacker's World. He is a full-time traveller currently on a mission to visit every country in the world. As a full-time traveller, Josh knows exactly how to make the most of any trip and shares these tips with his readers. Josh mostly travels as a backpacker on a budget, so he is also an expert when it comes to getting the most of your money while travelling.

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Rome in December and Christmas

This post covers the top events and things to do in Rome in December 2024, including free attractions, things to do at night, and family-friendly options.

Don't forget to check out these posts for even more ideas and information.

As local tour guides, we compiled this list based on our own experiences, but also answering your questions.

We lead thousands of people each month through the streets of Rome and on every tour you ask us about things to do in the city.

And, in the video below, Matteo from Rome Free Tours takes you on a virtual walk in and around Piazza Navona, Rome's most famous square.

We also grabbed ideas from the members of our popular Rome Travel Tips Facebook group.

Events and Activities in Rome in December

The group consists of locals, like our tour guides, veteran travelers, as well as newbies to Berlin.

You don't need to join in order to read the posts, comments, and recommendations.

Check out the group once you are finished reading this post. A link can be found at the bottom of the post.

Things to Do in Rome (Any Time of Year)
Free Tours By Foot
How's the Weather in December?

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN DECEMBER

In this section, we provide our top ten list of the best activities in Rome during the month of December.

If you’re looking for help finding the most popular activities in Rome, check our most popular posts:

Rome Walking Tours
Best Bus Tours
The Colosseum
Vatican Museums

Keep in mind that several of the activities below are either cheaper or free with the help of a Rome tourist pass .

1. Take a Walking Tour

December is one of the best times to take a walking tour of Rome.

Not only is this the beginning of the slow season for tourism, but there are also a lot of fantastic Christmas decorations being put up around many of the historic sites.

In addition to tours of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill , you can also take a tour of Rome’s city center .

Alternatively, you may want to consider taking a guided walk through the Vatican Museums .

Some of these walking tours are either free or pay-what-you-wish, so this is a great way to save money while exploring the city and learning about the history of Rome.

2. Attend a Concert

Rome has a long history with music. Some of the most well-known composers have created their works here.

If you'd like to attend a concert in some of the same places where great works were performed, you have a number of options.

Classical Music/Opera

Vivaldi/Bach at St. Paul's Within the Walls | Mondays
Rooftop Bar Opera Show: The Great Beauty in Rome | Wednesdays
Capuchin’s Crypt: Sacred Music in the Heart of Rome | Thursdays
Open Air Opera Concert: Best Arias and Love Duets | Fridays
Open Air Opera Concert at Terrazza Borromini | Fridays
La Traviata at St. Paul's Within the Walls | Fridays
The Three Tenors in Rome | Saturdays
Mefistofele | December 2nd, 3rd, 5th
Tosca | December 12th, 14th

TIP: Teatro dell’Opera is roughly a 15-20 minute walk from famous sites such as the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain .

3. Go Christmas Shopping on Via dei Condotti

Via dei Condotti is the fashion district of Rome. It has stores such as Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co, and more.

It is also the street that typically has some of the best lighting displays in all of Rome.

In recent years, there have been lights in the shape of popular cartoon characters like Scooby-Doo, Tom & Jerry, The Powerpuff Girls, Adventure Time, and more.

4. Enjoy a Christmas Concert

There will be two great opportunities to hear some of your favorite Christmas carols performed live in Rome this holiday season.

The most notable experience will be a Christmas Baroque Concert taking place at the Capuchin Crypt on December 21st, 26th, and 28th (Rome celebrates Christmas well past the 25th).

In addition to that opportunity, you can also attend an Opera Aria concert which will include popular Christmas songs.

This performance will be held on December 22nd, 23rd, 26th, 29th and 30th.

5. See the Pope and Vatican City

With so many holy days taking place in December, there will be more than a few opportunities to see the Pope during this month.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception | December 8th | Piazza Mignanelli
Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve | December 24th | St. Peter's Basilica
Urbi et Orbe on Christmas Day | December 25th | St. Peter's Square

Note that it's difficult to get tickets for the Christmas Eve service, but it is free to attend if you are granted admission.

In addition to these special occasions, the Pope will also hold audiences on Wednesdays and perform the Sunday Angelus each week.

You can learn more about both activities in our post covering how to see the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica .

The Vatican will be decked out in decorations during December. If you can't make it to mass, see what else you can do here throughout the month .

TIP: It’s worth noting that the Vatican Museums will be open to the public for free on December 24th, and open at regular prices throughout the Christmas season.

6. See All the Christmas Displays

No other city celebrates Christmas quite like Rome.

Not only are there several events and activities related to the holiday, but you’ll also find Christmas Trees and more near many historic landmarks.

Here are just a few places you can expect to find a nice holiday display:

The Spanish Steps
St. Peter’s Square
Capitoline Hill
Piazza Venezia
Piazza Navona

TIP: Each of these locations is either included as a stop or very near one of the destinations provided by hop-on-hop-off bus tours .

If you’re hoping to see as many of these Christmas displays as possible, this is a great way to get around the city.

And if you're looking for more after-dark activities, check out our section on things to do at night .

7. Enjoy Free Admission to Popular Sites

Free admission was granted at certain popular landmarks and historic sites on the first Sunday of every month.

There are at least 20 free museum days throughout the year at notable locations across the city.

Just a few of the public museums that have this day are:

The Roman Forum
Borghese Gallery
Castel Sant’Angelo
Baths of Caracalla

Here's an entire list of other locations that take part. Note that this offer does not cover special exhibitions that require a fee to enter.

TIP: If you want to avoid the possibility of large crowds altogether, consider using a Rome attraction pass to visit each of these locations on a less popular day without paying full price.

8. Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Most people come to Rome for two things: eat the food and see the sights!

The Colosseum is perhaps the most recognizable site in the city and on most people's lists of must-see Rome.

Other iconic sights and areas to see are the Trastevere neighborhood , Piazza Navona , the Vatican Museums , and the Trevi Fountain .

A convenient way to travel between sights is to take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

These tours allow you to cover much more ground than you would on foot.

Spend time at the sights you want by hopping off - and the great thing is that in December there is much less crowding at famous spots like the Borghese Gallery .

If you do want to explore by foot and get up close and personal with the Eternal City, take a look at these tours of the city center to find a walk that is right for you.

9. Celebrate New Year’s Eve

As with their celebrations for Christmas, Rome tends to throw a pretty great party for New Year’s Eve.

Everything starts at Circus Maximus, with "The Moon" festival. There will be live theatrical performances and, of course, fireworks.

You'll also find live local rock bands and folks who gather to watch the fireworks at Piazza del Popolo.

And there are free concerts taking place at Via dei Fore Imperiali and Circo Massimo!

Don't worry about getting to bed early as most museums and notable sites are closed the next day. Just have fun at these free events!

For more fun activities that won’t cost a euro, check our free things to do section .

10. Save Money with a Tourist Pass

If you’re planning on visiting a lot of popular attractions in Rome this month, a tourist pass will help you save a lot of money.

Depending on which pass you choose and how you use it, you could easily save 50% or more off general admission prices at a variety of locations.

There are currently a few different types of tourist passes in Rome.

An all-inclusive pass includes admission to dozens of different attractions and activities that you can enjoy for a specific amount of time (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 days).

Alternatively, you can also choose a prepackaged pass that offers admission to specific activities in addition to discounts of 10% - 50% off other popular attractions.

No matter which option you pick, the following tours and locations are usually included with at least one major Rome tourist pass:

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour
Hop-on-Hop-off Cruise
The Vatican Museums
Capitoline Museums
Catacombs Tour
Opera Tickets

Some tourist passes offer skip-the-line admission at locations such as the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, allowing you to save both time and money.

For more details on these services, please read our post covering Rome tourist passes .

11. Go to a City Centre Christmas Market

If you’re still looking for the perfect Christmas gift, consider going to one of the many Christmas Markets that pop up in Rome during December.

One of the biggest markets is located at Piazza Navona , which was once actually the site of the main city market.

There will be various holiday pastries, toys, and other trinkets available for purchase.

You can also expect live street musicians and artists to perform a lot of festive tunes.

Alternatively, you can also head to Campo de’ Fiori, which will also be open and participating in the holiday festivities.

Given that this is more of a traditional marketplace, you’ll probably find a wider variety of potential gift ideas here.

TIP: Campo de’ Fiori is actually the first stop on our self-guided walking tour of Rome . It is also included with some guided walking tours of the city centre .

12. Experience the Pantheon on a Snowy Day

It’s not every day that it snows in Rome, but December offers some of the best opportunities to see this rare event.

If you happen to be in the city when snowflakes begin to fall, head to the Pantheon as quickly as possible.

Thanks to the open dome at the Pantheon, all of the elements such as rain and snow actually fall through the roof and into the building.

According to many visitors, this is a very beautiful sight to behold.

The way the light hits the snowflakes makes them look as if they are falling from heaven.

Even if it doesn’t snow, you might still want to see this historic landmark on a rainy day for a similar effect.

NOTE: The Pantheon is very close to other historic sites such as Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain .

13. Attend Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica

On Christmas Eve, Catholic churches around the world celebrate the holiday by holding mass at midnight.

This time-honored tradition is held everywhere – including St. Peter’s Basilica, where the pope himself will be on hand to deliver the mass.

Even if you can’t manage to get tickets for this event, remember that there are several churches in Rome where you can attend midnight mass.

To obtain tickets, you need to ask for them ahead of time by mail. Be sure to include all of the information they are asking for.

If you do manage to get tickets, you must take them to the Preffetura Vaticana at least a few days before the event to confirm that you have them.

14. See the Wood of the Manger

According to religious leaders, the church of Santa Maria Maggiore holds within its walls some of the wood that came from the manger where Jesus was born.

You’ll find the relic in an item known as The Holy Crib, which is located near the kneeling statue of Pope Pius IX.

To this day, visitors are welcome to come and venerate this holy item.

What better time of year to see such an important artifact than during the month leading up to Christmas?

15. Visit the Santo Bambino of Aracoeli

In addition to all the nativity scenes and holy items such as the wood of the manger, you may also want to go see the Santo Bambino of Aracoeli during this special time of year.

This holy artifact is a carved wooden image of the baby Jesus.

According to some visitors, this religious relic has the power to heal the sick.

Worshippers often leave letters for “Il Bambino” in hopes that their prayers will be answered.

Located at the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, visitors are welcome to come and see or worship Santo Bambino for free.

This site is very close to historic landmarks such as Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum , so it shouldn’t be too difficult to find.

NOTE: There are hop-on-hop-off bus stops very close to the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli.

If you're looking for more free activities, check out our post of free things to do .

16. Celebrate Hanukkah at Piazza Barberini

Rome may be a predominantly Catholic city, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any other religious cultures in the area.

Believe it or not, there is a big enough Jewish community that they actually hold a special event for Hanukkah every year at Piazza Barberini.

On every night of Hanukkah, in 2023 December 7th - December 15th, one of the candles of a 20-foot tall menorah will be lit in this public square.

This attraction draws a pretty big crowd, with a big party and dancing.

Even if you’re not religious, you may want to head to this plaza during the holiday to celebrate and enjoy the event.

NOTE: Historic sites such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps are only about 10-15 minutes away from Piazza Barberini.

Both locations are free to visit and would make for great activities either before or after this event.

17. Enjoy The Three Tenors at St. Paul Within the Walls

If you’re looking for a more classical concert, there will be several opportunities to hear the Three Tenors at St. Paul’s Within the Walls.

They appear each Saturday to sing "famous Neapolitan songs and the most beautiful opera arias".

Purchase tickets to The Three Tenors in Rome here. Note that you can save €5 using the Go City Rome Explorer Pass .

Find more evening entertainment in our post on things to do at night .

18. Go Ice Skating

Although it rarely gets cold enough for ice to form in Rome, there are a few locations where you will find a skating rink during the winter.

The two ice rinks closest to the city center are Auditorium Parco della Musica and Ice Space Village in Testaccio.

Each park will only be open for a limited time in the winter, and they both open up in December.

You may also find a rink open at Grinzing Village by Castel Sant'Angelo.

NOTE: Auditorium Parco della Musica is just across the river from Olympic Stadium. If you’re planning to see a football game with the family, you may want to add this activity to your trip for some extra fun.

19. Christmas Treats in Rome

When it comes to holiday treats, Rome is home to several interesting options you may not be familiar with.

The two most popular choices are Panettone and Pandoro.

Panettone is similar to fruitcake, it’s bread with candied orange, lemon, and raisins.

Pandoro is more of a traditional cake, shaped like a star and covered with sugar.

If you need some help finding the most festive and delicious holiday treats in this city, consider taking a Christmas walking tour in Rome .

If you’re looking for more of a traditional candy, try some Torrone -- a bar of nougat with roasted nuts.

20. Listen to Christmas Carols

Although there are no guarantees, we recommend visiting at least a few public squares like Piazza Navona or Piazza del Popolo in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Sometimes groups of carolers will gather in these areas to song traditional holiday music.

It’s also worth noting that most churches will host a special Christmas mass or other events on Christmas Eve, and these activities usually include the opportunity to sing carols with everyone else.

21. Celebrate St. Stephen’s Day

Even if Christmas is technically over, that won’t stop the Romans from celebrating for another two weeks at least!

One popular celebration is St. Stephen’s Day on December 26th, and on this day the Vatican Museums are entirely free to visit.

Crowds are usually large on free days, but as there are a lot of notable and historic things to see here, it’s definitely worth it.

22. Visit a Trastevere Christmas Market

The Trastevere neighborhood is where many people feel that you can get a true taste of what Rome is really like, and there are at least two-holiday markets in the area you may want to visit.

Piazza San Cosimato is home to an open-air market every day except Sunday, and they focus mostly on fresh foods.

This could be a great spot to find a few things for Christmas dinner, and there are several great restaurants in the area to grab some festive foods as well.

If you’re looking to do some Christmas shopping, head to the Agora Market at Live Alcazar, a former movie theatre.

This market is all about fashion, vintage collector's items, music, and more.

23. Celebrate The Feast of The Immaculate Conception

On December 8th, Roman Catholics will pay homage to the Virgin Mary by making a pilgrimage to Piazza Mignanelli, which is roughly one block away from Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps.

In a tradition dating back to 1958, the pope himself will be there to kneel in prayer and leave a wreath to be placed on the statue of the Madonna.

Since this is a national holiday, all schools and government offices will be closed for the event.

Thankfully, the shops will remain open, but you can expect road closures and particularly large crowds around Piazza Mignanelli.

NOTE: This is one of the rare occasions where you will be able to see the Pope in public outside the walls of the Vatican.

If you want to learn more about opportunities to see him, check out our post about visiting St. Peter’s Basilica .

24. See the Nativity Scenes of Rome

In addition to all the Christmas trees and holiday lighting displays you’ll find all over the city, you’ll also find plenty of incredible nativity scenes spread across Rome.

You’ll find the most notable examples at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Square, Santa Maria in Trastevere, and San Marcello on the Via del Corso.

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Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more

Christmas in Rome combines Christian tradition, shopping, nativity scenes, markets, museums and Roman cuisine to create an unforgettable experience.

A visit to Rome at Christmas is something very special. In addition to shopping, decorated streets, museums and good food, you will experience one of the highest celebrations in the center of Christianity.

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Advent in Rome

The Christmas season officially begins in Rome on December 8 with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception , la Immacolata Concezione, which is a holiday in Italy. Yet the Christmas decorations are turned on earlier in Rome as well. The tradition of St. Nicholas on December 6th is not celebrated in Rome.

This year, for the first time, the City of Rome’s Christmas tree will not be shining in Piazza Venezia due to the major construction site for the new metro station. The 2023 Christmas tree can therefore be admired in Piazza del Popolo, at the other end of Via del Corso. Piazza del Popolo is a pedestrian zone, the atmosphere is magical.

The Xmas season ends in Rome with the feast of the Magi on January 6th. On the night of the 5th to the 6th of January the witch, La Befana, comes and brings sweets and coal to the children.

Nativity scenes in Rome

Rome Christmas cribs. In Rome there is at least one crib in each church. And there are many churches in Rome! You can also visit some exhibitions. The largest is near to the Vatican. In the surroundings of Rome there are nativity scenes with performers and animals, so-called “living cribs”.

The nativity scene on St. Peter’s Square

The most famous nativity scene in Rome, with life-size figures, is set up every year in St. Peter’s Square.

In 2023 the scene comes from the nearby province of Rieti, where St. Francis built his first Christmas crib 800 years ago in the village of Greccio. In St. Peter’s Square, the situation 800 years ago is recreated. Next to the Holy Family and the shepherds, one sees Francis with his confreres. The figures in painted clay wear clothes like 800 years ago. The structure reproduces the rock of the sanctuary of Greccio and the river Velino. Photo gallery of the 2023 nativity scene

In the audience hall, a structure made of Venetian glass tells of the birth of Jesus. He is welcomed by St. Francis and St. Chiara.

The Christmas tree in St. Peter’s Square comes from the Alps of Piedmont. The 25m high fir is donated by the village of Macra, which has only 40 inhabitants and is located in a picturesque mountain region with beautiful hiking trails.

The inauguration of the crib and the tree will take place on Saturday Dec 9 at 5 p.m.. They can be visited until January 7.

There are also nativity scenes on display in the Audience Hall and in the Baptistery of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Nativities of previous years

In St. Peter’s Square every year are exhibited interesting Christmas cribs in different styles and from different countries. In 2022, the nativity scene came from the village of Sutrio in the Friulian Dolomites.

The 2021 nativity scene came from faraway Peru, from the peasant community of Choppca, located in the Andes at an altitude of 3,680 to 4,500 meters in the district of Huancavelica. Photo gallery nativity 2021>

Nativity scene St. Peter's Square 2020 Holy family without baby Jesus

In 2020 the nativity scene came frome the city of Castelli in the Apennines and the 28 m / 92 ft high tree from Kočevje in Slovenia. Photo gallery nativity 2020>

In 2019 the crib and tree came from the Italian Alps. Photo gallery nativity 2019>

In 2018, the Nativity scene was carved out of a block of sand from Jesolo.

Rome Christmas St. Peter's Basilica Nativity 2016

In 2016 it came from Malta. Click here for the picture gallery of the crib 2016>

In 2017, the crib came from Naples. In 2018, the nativity scene was carved out of a block of sand from Jesolo.

Nativity scenes exhibition

Many Romans make nativity scenes as a hobby and tinker with them all year round. There are beautiful landscapes and often moving figures, often depicting village life and various activities. Particularly active is the Italian association of nativity scene lovers AIAP (Associazione Italiana Amici del Presepio, website AIAP ), whose members mostly pursue nativity scene making as a hobby. The AIAP exhibits nativity scenes in various churches and also participates in the nativity scene exhibition at the Vatican.

100 Nativity scenes in the Vatican

The exhibition 100 Cribs in the Vatican is on St. Peter’s Square under the left colonnade of Bernini. It is called “ 100 presepi in Vaticano “. The exhibition shows 100 cribs from all over the worldmade of different materials like wood, glass or metal and in different styles. Entrance is free.

The crib of the street sweepers (all year)

The crib of the street sweepers (il presepe dei netturbini) was created in 1972 and has grown steadily. The model of life in Palestine 2000 years ago consists of 200 buildings, roads and rivers with 8 bridges and 5 aqueducts. There are also springs and caves as well as numerous figures. The entrance is free.

The crib is located in a building of the garbage disposal company between San Pietro station and the Vatican.

Nativity exhibition in the Basilica of St. Anthony

Another nativity scene exhibition is in the crypt of the Basilica of St. Anthony of the Franciscan Order. Entrance is free. The basilica is located on the Via Merulana corner of Viale Manzoni. Via Merulana leads from the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to the Basilica of St. John.

Nativity exhibition on Via Tuscolana (all year)

There is a year-round exhibition of cribs at the parish of St. Anthony and Annibale Maria.

Living nativities

In the living nativities, participants recreate life at the time of Jesus’ birth in Palestine. There are stalls, artisans, shepherds with their animals, Roman officials and soldiers, and of course the holy family with the baby Jesus. Ox and donkey are also around somewhere.

The living crib of the missionary community of Villaregia

Living nativity missionary Villaregia Rome

Around 20 km south of Rome, a living crib is organized by the Villaregia mission community in Via Antonio Berlese 55. This nativity scene is lovingly prepared in months of work and the proceeds are used for the mission in Ethiopia.

How to get there : You can reach the crib by bus 703, stop Strampelli / Berlese. The line 703 departs from Via Cristoforo Colombo, previous to the obelisk, from the Civiltà del Lavoro stop. The bus runs about twice an hour and the journey time is just under 45 minutes. To get to the Civiltà del Lavoro, take bus 30, 170, 714 and 791. Or take the metro B to Eur Fermi and then take bus 703 at the Arte / America stop. For the journey you need a day ticket BIRG for 3 zones for the price of 8 Euro.

The living crib of Tarquinia

How to get to Tarquinia : Regional train 2342 at 2:12pm from Termini with arrival at 3:27 in Tarquinia or train 2344 at 4:12pm. From the station you can go by local bus to the city center or 3 km on foot. Return trains are at 8:29 and 10:29pm. For the journey you need a day ticket BIRG for 4 zones for the price of 9,30 Euro or train tickets for the price of 13,80 Euro for round trip. Children between the ages of 4 and 12 pay a reduced price of 7 euros round trip with the train ticket.

The Living Crib of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore

Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more 1

Saturday Dec. 16 from 13 to 18

The crib will be created by participants from all over Italy

13:00 Access to the crib area

14:00 Performance of folklore groups

15:00 Performance of the living crib

Christmas markets

In Rome you will find a huge variety of culture, churches, archeology, gastronomy and shopping. But Xmas markets, as they are known from northern countries, do not exist in Rome. Reasons for this are the warmer climate and the missing gastronomic offer at the Christmas markets in Rome.

The witches’ market, the Mercatino della Befana , takes place in Piazza Navona. In Italy, it is the witch who brings presents to the kids, on the night of January 6th. The beautiful traditional carousel turns late into the night alongside noisy shooting galleries. A colorful mixture of handicrafts, sugar stuff and cheap junk from the Far East is on offer, until January 6.

Very nice is the market in Piazza Mazzini in Prati. This year-round market offers Christmas decorations and has a nice ambience.

There are other markets scattered around the city, mostly in tents offering everything from used books to costume jewelery.

Throughout the year, on Sundays, the Porta Portese flea market takes place with housewares, second-hand goods, clothing, furniture and antiques. Tram lines 3 and 8.

Green Market Festival Small Art Market

7-10 Dec 10-20 Green Market Festival on Christmas

22 Dec 15-20, 21 Dec 10-20, 24 Dec 10-16 Solidarity Christmas

Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more 2

Santa Claus Wonderland – Santa’s house – post office – ice rink and skate rental

Ponte Milvio – Lungotevere Maresciallo Diaz

Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more 3

Ragusa Off: Giftland Christmas market on 6,000 m² covered area with over 200 exhibitors

Vintage – Craft – Food Corner – Mulled Wine – Farmers Market

Dec 2-3; Dec 8-10; Dec 16-17 10 am – 8 pm

Christmas World in Villa Borghese

The biggest event at Christmas in Rome is Christmas World at Villa Borghese from December 1 to January 7. There is also an ice skating rink with skate rental. Thematically, 60,000 square meters feature the landmarks of 8 world cities with themed gastronomic offerings.

Entrance tickets should be reserved online.

Piazza Navona Christmas Market

A kind of fair takes place in Piazza Navona from 2nd December until January 7th, the “Festa della Befana”, the festival of the witch.

It has a beautiful carousel with horses from 1896. A few stalls sell handcrafted nativity scenes, regional specialties and there is a puppet theater. Most of the fairgrounds, however, sells worthless stuff. There are also numerous shooting galleries that draw attention to themselves. A serving of food and drinks does not exist. Piazza Navona Photo Gallery>

Museums at Christmas

Xmas is high season. Many tourists and pilgrims are in Rome. For the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum, you need to reserve in good time, as only a limited number of visitors are allowed.

Many National Museums and the Museums of the Municipality of Rome are closed on December 25th and January 1st. The Colosseum and Castel Sant’Angelo are open. You can find out which other museums are open on December 25 in our current information on December in Rome .

The museums of the Municipality of Rome will close on December 24th. and 31.12. at 14 o ‘clock. On January 1st, some museums in the municipality of Rome have a special opening time.

The Vatican Museums are closed on December 25th and 26th as well as on the 1st and 6th of January

Shows and concerts

01 oct 23 31 jul 24 Auditorium Parco della Musica The Music Park in Rome offers music from classical to folk to modern in concert halls and on an open-air stage. Parco della Musica , Via Pietro de Coubertin, 30, 00196 Roma RM

Shopping for Christmas in Rome

The Romans plan not long in advance, and only in the last few days before the feast it is hectic in Rome. Many visitors come from the surrounding countryside to Rome for the Christmas shopping and it is tight on the streets and in the shops. everything is festive. In Via dei Condotti you will find the big fashion brands, on the Via del Corso and in the surroundings you will find an extensive offer in every price class.

In our photo galleries we show you our walks through the atmospheric streets of the city, with decorated stores and with mulled wine.

Amusement parks

Ice skating.

During the Christmas season, various ice rinks are set up in Rome. At all the rinks you can find skate rental.

Ice Christmas Village, Ponte Milvio, until Jan. 8.

Christmas World, Villa Borghese, until Jan. 8.

Piazza Re di Roma, until Jan. 8.

Shopping Center Euroma2, until Feb. 4.

Christmas in the Luneur

In the district EUR is the amusement park Luneur. Luneur celebrates Christmas in December with Christmas decorations and mythical creatures. The children can hand over their wish list to Santa Claus. The opening times you find in their calendar .

Christmas at Cinecittà World

Tickets on Tiqets

Cinecittà World is open on December 25

10:30 Holy Mass

Christmas menu

Public transport

On Xmas Eve 24th December, bus, tram and metro will stop operation with a final departure at 9pm. The last departure on the line to Ostia is at 9:30 p.m., from Ostia at 8:45 p.m.

The night buses go according to the timetable. The lines of the night buses are marked with an N.

On the 25th December public transport will run from 8:30 to 13:00 and from 16:30 to 21:00. This also applies to the line to Ostia and to the city area of the line Rome-Flaminio Montebello. The night buses go according to the timetable.

On December 26, the normal holiday timetable applies.

Celebrating Christmas in Rome

On Christmas Day, the traditional Christmas message and the blessing “Urbi et Orbi” will take place at noon in St. Peter’s Square.

The 24th December is the day of the expectation of the birth of Christ and therefore not a holiday and there is no banquet. The tradition is fish or simple dishes.

On the 25th December the dishes will be served in the right way. The tradition includes a wide choice of appetizers, pasta, lamb (abbacchio) or rabbit (coniglio) or other specialties of the Roman cuisine. Finally, the traditional Christmas biscuits, Pannettone or Pandoro and, of course, caffè and a grappa or a liqueur such as limoncello as “Ammazzacaffè” (coffee butcher), which counteracts the taste and caffeine of the caffè.

On December 26, friends are visited and the leftovers are eaten.

Christmas masses

You need a reservation to attend Masses in St. Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

25.12. 12:00 Loggia delle Benedizioni, Urbi et Orbi. For Christmas, the Pope donates the blessing for the city and the world. You can follow the blessing live in St. Peter’s Square or on our page about the live broadcasts from the Vatican .

All dates can be found on the page December in Rome>

Churches in Rome with services in English language

Roman catholic:.

Pontifical Irish College (Roman Catholic), Via dei SS. Quattro 1, tel. 06772631 https://www.irishcollege.org/

St Isidore’s College (Roman Catholic), Via degli Artisti 41, tel. 064885359 https://stisidoresrome.org/

St Francis Xavier del Caravita (Roman Catholic), Via della Caravita 7 http://caravita.org/

S. Silvestro in Capite (Roman Catholic), Piazza S. Silvestro 1, tel. 066797775 https://sansilvestroincapite.org/

St Patrick’s American Community (Roman Catholic), Via Boncompagni 31, tel. 0642014554 https://stpatricksamericanrome.org/

Venerable English College (Roman Catholic), Via di Monserrato 45, tel. 066868546 https://www.vecrome.org/

Other churches

All Saints’ Anglican Church, Via del Babuino 153/b, tel. 0636001881 https://www.allsaintsrome.org/

Ponte S. Angelo Methodist Church, Piazza Ponte S. Angelo 68, tel. 0668768314 http://www.methodistchurchrome.com/

Rome Baptist Church, S. Lorenzo in Lucina 35, tel. 066876652 http://www.romebaptist.org/

St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church of Scotland, Via XX Settembre 7, tel. 064827627 https://www.facebook.com/presbyterianchurchrome/

St Paul’s Within the Walls (Episcopal), Via Nazionale, corner Via Napoli 58, tel. 064883339 https://www.stpaulsrome.it/

Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more 4

Rome in December: weather and climate tips

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Experience Rome's timeless charm in December as the city wears its winter veil. Discover a captivating mix of history and festivities amidst the weather in Rome in December. From the crisp air carrying whispers of antiquity to the cosy embrace of cafes, let's navigate the enchanting mosaic of Rome's December climate to make the most of every moment in this timeless city.

Is December a good time to visit Rome?

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Tailor-made trips for Italy

December casts a unique spell over Rome , making it an unforgettable time to visit. Although the weather in Rome in December can be chilly, the city exudes an enchanting aura, combining historical grandeur with a festive mood.

Moderate crowds allow you to see iconic sights like the Colosseum and the Vatican without the scorching heat of summer. Imagine walking through cobbled streets decorated with twinkling lights and festive decorations while the aroma of roasted chestnuts wafts through the air.

True, you'll have to wear a jacket for this, but this is offset by the cosy warmth of traditional Italian trattorias and cafes.

Planning a trip to Italy ? Make sure to browse our itineraries

partheon-night-rome-italy-shutterstock_523979521

Pantheon at night, Rome @ Shutterstock

The weather in Rome in December experiences a mild and pleasant winter climate that draws visitors seeking a respite from the colder temperatures in other parts of Europe. Average daytime temperatures hover around 12 to 15°C (54 to 59°F), making it a comfortable time to explore the city's historic sites and charming neighborhoods without the scorching summer heat.

However, evenings can get chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 3 to 5°C (37 to 41°F), so it's advisable to bring a jacket or coat if you plan to venture out after sunset. December also brings occasional rainfall, so packing an umbrella or raincoat is a smart choice to ensure an enjoyable visit to the Eternal City during this festive holiday season.

Make sure to read all about the weather in Italy in November and the best time to visit Italy .

Piazza Navona,Rome during christmas time © Shutterstock

December in Rome is a welcome respite from the usual crowds of tourists, making it an attractive time to visit. Compared to the peak summer months, there are fewer tourists in the city, which creates a quieter and more intimate atmosphere at popular attractions. This allows you to explore iconic sites with greater ease and without the long queues that are usually seen during the high season.

In terms of cost, while some hotels and inns may offer slightly lower prices compared to peak tourist months, it is important to note that December is also a popular time for holiday travel, which can affect prices.

Overall, December is a balance between fewer tourists and a festive atmosphere, making it an enjoyable time to explore Rome for a more authentic and relaxed experience. It is advisable to book accommodation and flights in advance to ensure the best prices and availability during this popular festive period.

Rough Guides Tip: not sure about December? Perhaps Rome weather in November is more appealing to you.

The weather in Rome in December adds to the overall charm of the Eternal City @ Shutterstock

Yes, it can get relatively cold in Rome in December. Average temperatures this month range from around 4°C (39°F) in the early mornings and evenings to around 12°C (54°F) in the afternoon. Although not as cold compared to some other European destinations, you can expect cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings.

To stay warm while exploring the city, it's best to bring warm clothes such as jumpers, jackets, scarves and gloves. The weather in Rome in December can be very changeable, so layering is key to adapting to temperature changes throughout the day.

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An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy

V isiting the Eternal City for the first time? Rome is one of the most visited cities in Italy and we created an easy travel guide to Rome so that you know the best things to see and do.

In this post, we’re sharing all we’ve learned from our vacations in Rome to help you plan your getaway. We’ll cover the most popular neighborhoods, the best things to see and do, how to get around in Rome, the best time of the year to visit, how to get to central Rome from FCO Airport, and tips for traveling.

Where is Rome

Rome is located in the region of Lazio, near the and is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in Italy. It has the highest population of all cities in Italy and sits about 1 hour from the western coast.

And when it comes to tourism, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the globe travel to Rome to see its beauty and Renaissance art, experience Roman cuisine and Italian cooking , shop the fashion capital, discover the piazzas and fountains, explore the historical landmarks, or even practice Italian phrases that they’ve learned.

The various neighborhoods are the most widely visited by tourists because they are where most attractions can be found. Traveling through the city is easy on foot, but you should also consider the Rome sightseeing bus or the Rome golf cart tours .

The Best Time of Year to Visit Rome

Rome can be extremely uncomfortable in the summer months (primarily June through September). In April and May, the spring temperatures are nice, the mornings are cool, and by noon you probably won’t need a jacket.

The Best Things to See and Do (by Neighborhood)

Each neighborhood of Rome has museums, churches, gardens, parks, and iconic spots to visit. This list gives a brief description of each district, and helps you understand what to see in each neighborhood. It will come in handy for deciding where to stay in Rome while planning your trip.

You may need to take public transportation to reach a specific neighborhood depending on where you stay. However, once you arrive, the area is completely walkable and getting from one point of interest to another is easy.

Modern Center

This neighborhood is located around Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps, the Modern Center neighborhood combines classic and contemporary influences. It has a mix of upscale boutiques, trendy cafes, and luxurious hotels, making it a hub for shopping, dining, and experiencing the modern side of Rome.

Palazzo del Quirinale

Complesso delle Quattro Fontane

Trevi Fountain

Galleria Nazionale d’Arte Antica a Pallazo

Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri

Castro Pretorio

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Vittoria

Museo e Cripto dei Frati Cappuccini

The heart of Rome’s historic center, the Old Rome neighborhood captivates with its cobblestone streets, charming piazzas, and awe-inspiring landmarks like the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

Scalinta di Trinita dei Monti (Spanish Steps)

Museo dell’Ara Pacis

Campo de’ Fiori

Palazza Farnese

Piazza Navona

Museo di Roma Palazzo Braschi

Chiesa di San Luigi dei Francesi

Chiesa di Sant’Agnese in Agone

By far this is the most popular neighborhood in Rome for travelers. Trastevere is a bohemian neighborhood located on the west bank of the Tiber River. It is known for it narrow, winding streets, nightlife, and charming piazzas. Trastevere has a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, and traditional trattorias.

Villa Farnesina

Galleria Corsini

Basilica di Santa Maria

Orto Botanico

Home to the iconic Colosseum, the Colosseum neighborhood in Rome immerses visitors in ancient history as they explore the grandeur of the Roman Empire, marvel at ancient ruins, and soak in the architectural splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Roman Forum

Palatine Hill

Bocca della Verita

Circo Massimo

Piazza Venezia

Altare della Patria

Aventino – Tastaccio

Testaccio is a historic working-class neighborhood that has transformed into a culinary hotspot. It offers a vibrant food scene with traditional trattorias, gourmet restaurants, and a bustling food market.

Basilicia di San Giovanni

Terme di Caracalla

Knights of Malta Keyhole

Esquilino – San Giovanni

Located near Termini Station, the Esquilino neighborhood is a melting pot of cultures and flavors. Known for its diverse immigrant communities, Esquilino is a mix of ethnic restaurants, colorful markets, and architectural gems like the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore.

Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Museo Nazionale Romano

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincole

Nomentano combines residential tranquility with commercial areas. This neighborhood is characterized by its leafy parks, elegant villas, and the iconic University La Sapienza. There is a mix of students, locals, and dining. Nomentano has a relaxed and intellectual atmosphere.

Sapienza University

North Center

The North Center neighborhood of Rome, encompassing areas like Villa Borghese and Parioli, presents a more tranquil and residential atmosphere. With its leafy parks, elegant villas, and cultural institutions like the Galleria Borghese, this area provides a peaceful retreat from the city center.

Museo e Galleria Borghese
Villa Borghese
La Galleria Nazionale
Museo Nazionale Etrusce di Villa Guilia

Vatican City

Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and the spiritual center of Catholicism. Home to St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Sistine Chapel, this iconic neighborhood offers a rich blend of religious significance, magnificent art, and awe-inspiring architecture.

St. Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Vatican Museums

Castel Sant’Angelo

Southern Rome

The southern part of Rome is less touristy and has an authentic atmosphere that portrays a taste of local Roman life. From food markets and traditional trattorias to vibrant street art and a strong sense of community, Southern Rome provides a glimpse into the city’s everyday charm.

Via Appia Antica

Catacombe di San Sebastiano

Catacombe di San Callisto

Museo Capitoline Centrale Montemartini

How to Get Around Rome

Getting around the cobbled-stoned streets of Rome is not hard. I’ve walked, biked, and bused throughout Rome and loved it! All are great ways to get around and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and your personal preference.

I recommend the Big Bus Tour or a Golf Cart Tour in Rome if you are short on time or if you booked your travel in the dead heat of summer (which can be intensely hot).

With these tours, you’ll see all the top Rome attractions with audio commentary in your language of choice. If you choose an open top tour bus, the added benefit is free wi-fi and for 3 extra euros, you can use your ticket for two days (it is worth it).

When it comes to seeing Rome, walking can not be avoided especially when getting to an attraction that require climbing hilly pathways or navigating ancient streets. In my opinion, being on foot is one of the best ways to travel in Rome.

Exploring the narrow streets can lead you to the most marvelous pasta, the creamiest gelato, or the most perfect pasta! I highly recommend visiting the Trastevere neighborhood for Italian street food .

Public Transportation

This is the best option for getting to a part of town that is more than 20 minutes on foot, especially if visiting a museum or park. Save your energy and use public transportation for less than 2 euros. You can purchase them at the tobacconist store.

You will need to validate your ticket upon boarding the bus (it’s an honor system). Getting caught with an un-validated ticket can result in a fine. You should also use a really good map of Rome.

Bike or Vespa

Peddling around the city on your own time feels so liberating. Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the Italian breakfasts that you eat, and explore Rome.

You can find rentals for as little as 13 euros for 24 hours, complete with lock, for a standard bike. The price for e-bikes is higher.

Getting around on a two-passenger scooter is loads of fun! Rent a Vespa to skirt traffic or explore outside the city. They can be rented by the hour or day. This will make your trip to Rome memorable as you travel in true Italian style!

How to Get to Central Rome from FCO Airport

There are several options to get from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport to the center of the city. I found the train to be the quickest and most affordable especially if you’ve had a long day of travel and want to get to Termini station.

The most economical way to get from the airport to the city center is via a shuttle bus service from the airport. You can travel conveniently between Rome’s city center and the airport and take pleasure in a stress-free arrival or departure from the city.

The ride takes about 50 minutes and departures run from the airport every 30 to 40 minutes so you have time to collect your luggage. Shuttles stop in Terminal 3’s arrivals section. Look for the respective service at the arrival platform.

Terravision offers a shuttle service for less than 8 euros it’s quite popular. The buses are air-conditioned and there is no cost to bring your luggage aboard. It goes directly to Termini station with no extra stops.

Another option is the public transportation system, which costs about 6 euros. The bus stops multiple times in the city center, including one close to the Vatican and one at Termini Station, throughout the 45- to 1-hour one-way trip.

Buses halt in Terminal 3’s arrivals section, at number 14. You can purchase tickets at the airport desk or online.

A taxi is quite expensive. It will set you back almost 50 euros and the ride takes just as long as a shuttle service (about 50 minutes). You can find the taxis at the arrival level of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The Leonardo Express train is less than 20 euros and runs every 15 minutes during peak periods. It is operated by Trenitalia and the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes.

If you wait to collect your luggage, and then make your way to the window or kiosk to purchase your ticket, note that many others will be doing the same. Hate long lines? You can purchase tickets in advance and be ready for validation after boarding the train.

I can’t recommend a car rental unless you plan a day trip and need a set of wheels. Rome is completely walkable. Not to mention, even Italians know that finding a parking space can be a hassle.

Tips for Visiting Rome

I adore visiting Italy. And no trip would be complete without seeing some of the most iconic and historic spots in the Eternal City.

Don’t make the mistake (that I made on my first trip) and skip these incredible spots! Fortunately, I was able to see them on return visits!

Whether you are visiting the Vatican for the first time or returning because you tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain, these Rome travel tips will come in handy to make your stay enjoyable.

Be prepared! Read these tips on the essentials for an international flight .
Think comfort when flying coach , it will help you stay calm and confident.
Beware of scammers, pickpockets, and panhandlers. It’s a thing in Europe and it can happen when you least expect it.

So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight to Rome and thank me later.

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

19 Best Things to Do in Rome at Christmas 2023
Viterbo's Christmas Village runs from November 25th, 2023 to January 6th, 2024. Until December 22nd, it will open only on weekends and for Immacolata Day on December 8th-10th from 10 am to 8 pm. Getting close to Christmas, it will be open every day from December 23rd to January 6th from 10 am to 8 pm.
Rome at Christmas: all you need to know for a magical stay
Christmas holidays in Rome. The main festive days you need to be aware of in Rome at Christmas are: December 8th. December 8th is a day off for locals. However, it usually does not affect your ability to visit museums and attractions, open on this day. 24th December. Christmas eve in Rome is pre-festive.
Your guide to spending a magical Christmas in Rome
Christmas market at The Auditorium. December 2, 2023-January 6, 2024. The Auditorium is a modern-day version of the legendary Colosseum. Open from noon until 8 p.m., this Christmas market has over 20 food booths and stalls brimming with local artisanal products. Keep your eyes peeled for authentic Italian cakes and sweet treats.
Christmas In Rome: A Magical Guide To Celebrations
During the Christmas season, Rome transforms into a magical city filled with holiday spirit. One of the most iconic festive attractions is the Piazza Navona Christmas Market. Here, visitors can indulge in seasonal treats, shop for handmade crafts, and admire the enchanting atmosphere. A visit to the Vatican is a must, especially during Christmas.
Visiting Rome In December, The Full Scoop & What To Do
A good way to see the lights and decorations is to take a Christmas walking tour or, even more fun, a Christmas vespa tour. Christmas Trees. Though Christmas trees originated in Germany, Rome embraced the tradition in the 20th century. The presence of a Christmas tree in St. Peter's Square, for instance, is a relatively recent tradition.
The Complete Guide To Spending Christmas in Rome: Look No Further!
Christmas in Italy is all about the light shows, religious traditions, and decadent shopping. The Eternal City is the best city to experience that Italian festive flare. After all, Rome is an important city to the Christian faith, so Christmas is an iconic time to visit the city. If you want to "do as the Romans do," we've listed ...
Christmas in Rome: 11 things to do and places to go
Overview article of things to do and to visit during Christmas in Rome this year (2023). Rome is Christmas town par excellence. With all the baroque churches, nativity scenes, the highest Christmas tree contest and luxury (decorated) shops, Rome belongs to Christmas.
Rome at Christmas
The city is quite alive and only a few places close on Christmas Eve and/or Christmas Day, but there is still plenty to do and you will not be without a place to eat. The Christmas holiday season in Rome starts on December 8, which is the holiday of the Immaculate Conception, or Immacolata. The season officially ends on January 6, the Epiphany.
Christmas in Rome: Your Guide for 2024
The Via Appia Antica Visit Rome's Christmas Markets. While Rome's historic city hosts several low-key Christmas markets, including a somewhat disappointing market in Piazza Navona, the best ones (and the only ones really worth visiting) are situated on the peripheries: in the north, at Villa Borghese, the Parco della Musica and Piazza della Vittoria, and in the south at Cinecittà.
Things to Do for Christmas in Rome
Rome is a popular Italian city to visit during the Christmas holiday season.It's also the place where some major religious Christmas traditions originated. The first Christmas Mass was said to take place at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the earliest known permanent nativity was created for the Rome Jubilee in 1300.. There is much to do and see in Rome during the Christmas holiday ...
Ultimate Guide to Spending Christmas in Rome
The most famous one is the Christmas market at Piazza Navona, which is held from December 8th to December 24th. This market is located in one of Rome's most beautiful squares and is the perfect place to find Christmas gifts and decorations. There are also markets at Campo de' Fiori, Largo Argentina, and Piazza Venezia.
Rome in December
Enjoy the Holiday atmosphere in Rome with a local. Visit all the best shopping areas and see Rome's streets lit up for the Christmas season. Take in the city's nativity scenes and spot a few Christmas trees. One drink included. Wheelchair accessible.
A Guide to Christmas in Rome
Ranging from small and traditional to expansive and modern, presepi are a quintessentially Italian Christmas tradition and a must during holiday trips to Rome. The city's most sought-after nativity scene is found just where you might expect it, in St. Peter's Square. This year, the 116-square-meter scene was entirely crafted from ...
Rome in December
At the beginning of December in Rome, you can expect the sun to rise around 7.15 am and set at 4.37 pm. Around mid-December, dawn is around 7.30 am and dusk is at 4.36 pm. Getting towards the end of the month, the sun rises between 7.10 and 7.14 am and sets at 4.40 pm.
Rome at Christmas:practical guide for visitors
The first big day for Christmas festivities in Rome is the 8th of December, when trees are traditionally decorated, and celebrations carry through all the way to the 6th of December, when the epiphany 'takes away' the holiday ( L'Epifania, tutte le feste porta via ). These full tree weeks of holidays are filled with seasonal events in ...
Rome in December: All you need to know to plan your trip
The weather in December in Rome is usually cold and dry, with bright sky and the occasional rainy day. December is a winter month in Rome. The average temperature in Rome in December is 9C/49F with a range from 15C/59F to 4C/39F degrees, which means you want to wear a sweater and a good coat, scarf and closed shoes.
Christmas in Rome 2024
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore | Find on map. 2. Check Out Nativity Scenes. Yet another cultural gem of Rome on Christmas, the nativity scenes (or the Presepe) can be seen all throughout the city - even in most shop displays. To gaze at some notable nativity scenes, going to popular churches is a good idea.
Visiting Rome at Christmas: Your Guide for 2023
Winter weather in Rome. Rome's climate is Mediterranean, which means cold, but never freezing winters. Average temperatures hover between 7-10°C (45-50°F) with six hours of sunshine per day and sunsets between 4:30 and 5:00 pm. Rain is the only slight inconvenience during Italian winters.
Christmas Events in Rome
December 25 - Natale/Christmas Day. Well, on a page about Christmas Events in Rome, the big day is obviously Christmas Day, Natale. Just about everything is closed in Rome this day but there are exceptions. NEW FOR CHRISTMAS DAY 2023 - The Colosseum will be open from 9 am to 1 pm.
Rome In December: Ultimate Rome Winter Guide (2024)
Rome Weather In December. Rome in December experiences colder temperatures than in other months (obviously) but it is by no means miserable and rainy all day every day. You can expect an average daily temperature of 9.5ºC (or 49ºF) throughout the course of the day.
Things to Do in Rome in December and Christmas (2024)
See the Pope and Vatican City. With so many holy days taking place in December, there will be more than a few opportunities to see the Pope during this month. Feast of the Immaculate Conception | December 8th | Piazza Mignanelli. Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve | December 24th | St. Peter's Basilica.
Rome Christmas 2023 · Christmas markets, nativity scenes & more
The nativity scene on St. Peter's Square. The most famous nativity scene in Rome, with life-size figures, is set up every year in St. Peter's Square. In 2023 the scene comes from the nearby province of Rieti, where St. Francis built his first Christmas crib 800 years ago in the village of Greccio. In St. Peter's Square, the situation 800 ...
Rome In December: Weather And Climate Tips
Temperatures in Rome in December. The weather in Rome in December experiences a mild and pleasant winter climate that draws visitors seeking a respite from the colder temperatures in other parts of Europe. Average daytime temperatures hover around 12 to 15°C (54 to 59°F), making it a comfortable time to explore the city's historic sites and ...
An Easy Travel Guide to Rome, Italy
Bike rental is very affordable and is an enjoyable way to experience the outdoors, get some exercise to make up for all the. Italian breakfasts. that you eat, and explore Rome. You can find ...

Your guide to spending a magical Christmas in Rome

The best Christmas markets in Rome

Piazza Navona Christmas market

Christmas market at The Auditorium

Piazza Mazzini Christmas market

Traditional Christmas food in Rome

Things to do in Rome on Christmas Day

Toss a coin at the Trevi Fountain

Shop at Sempre Natale

See the glorious Vatican Christmas Tree

Join a Christmas walking tour

Visit Rome’s churches at Christmas

Recommended tours and activities

Your go-to guide for winter travel

How to see the best of Rome at Christmas

Unsure what to do for your Christmas in Rome Trip? Here are a few Christmas Day Tours we highly recommend for you!

Christmas in Rome is truly a magical time, as the city transforms into a festive wonderland.

Historic Significance of Christmas in Rome

Festive Attractions

Food and Traditions

Activities and Events

Travel Considerations

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Visiting Rome In December, The Full Scoop & What To Do

Rome In December: What To Do

Christmas Trees

Column of the Immaculate Conception

Christmas Markets

Nativity Scenes

Christmas Mass

Attend A Classical Museum Concert

See The Pope

Weather & What To Wear

Seasonal Food Specialties

Take A Food Tour

Visit the City’s Museums

Indoor Attractions

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The Complete Guide To Spending Christmas in Rome: Look No Further!

How To Spend Christmas in Rome

Planning Ahead for Christmas in Rome

Restaurants

Hotels and Accommodation

Tours and Activities

What Is Rome Like at Christmas?

Worship Events on Christmas Eve in Rome

Nativity Scenes ( Presepi )

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Skip the Line Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

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Privileged Entrance Vatican Tour with Sistine Chapel

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