Last updated:
Christmas in Rome 2026 isn’t just a holiday—it’s a full-season celebration filled with sparkling lights, centuries-old traditions, atmospheric markets, and unforgettable festive moments.
From world-famous Nativity scenes to enchanting Christmas villages and the Pope’s ceremonies at the Vatican, Rome turns into a warm, glowing wonderland from late November through early January.
Below you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect Christmas trip to Rome—updated, clear, and full of insider tips.
Christmas Atmosphere in Rome
The Christmas season officially begins in Rome on December 8 with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which is an Italian holiday. From then on, Rome lights up:
- Christmas trees at iconic locations
- Nativity scenes across churches and piazzas
- Concerts, events, and festive food everywhere
The atmosphere is elegant, romantic, and unmistakably Roman.
The celebrations traditionally end on 6 January with the Feast of the Epiphany, although some events continue beyond this date.
In Italy, La Befana, a witch, brings gifts on the night of 5–6 January. She also brings children sweets and coal.
Christmas Markets and Winter Events in Rome, 2026
Rome boasts charming, creative, and family-friendly Advent villages, nativity scene exhibitions, and amusement parks.
Christmas village in the EUR district
One highlight is the EUR district’s Christmas village around the artificial Laghetto lake. It remains open until January 11, which is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the festive atmosphere after New Year’s.
What to expect there:
- Street food stalls and Italian Christmas specialties
- Arts and crafts and gift ideas.
- There are also shows, music, and children’s programs.
- There is also an ice rink and winter decorations around the artificial lake.
New for 2025: A 50-meter-high Ferris wheel!
For the first time, EUR will feature the tallest Ferris wheel in the city, standing at 50 meters high. Ideal for:
- Romantic rides at sunset
- Panoramic views of the EUR lake
- Christmas lights from above!
A real photo highlight of the 2026 Christmas season!
Other Christmas markets in Rome
Other markets and events also bring Christmas spirit to the city:
Piazza Mazzini (Prati): Decorations, toys, nativity figures
The market in Piazza Mazzini in Prati is also worth a visit. This year-round market sells decorations and Christmas ornaments during the festive season.
Navona Christmas Market: carousel, sweets, arts and crafts
The Mercatino della Befana takes place on the Piazza Navona. A beautiful traditional carousel with horses from 1896 spins late into the night, accompanied by loud shooting galleries. A colorful mix of handicrafts, sweets, and cheap knick-knacks from the Far East is offered until January 6. Piazza Navona Photo Gallery>
Green Market Festival: small arts and crafts market
Christmas World in Villa Borghese: themed villages representing world capitals, shows, food, ice rink
The largest Christmas event in Rome is Christmas World at Villa Borghese from November 29 to January 11. There is also an ice rink with skate rental. Themed around 40,000 m², you will find landmarks from eight world cities with themed culinary offerings.
Local neighborhood markets: books, fashion, arts and crafts – perfect for unique gifts
There are also smaller markets scattered throughout the city, mostly in tents, selling everything from used books to costume jewellery.
Nativity Scenes (Presepi) – A Roman Tradition
Rome is known worldwide for its Nativity scenes. Must-sees include:
- Life-size nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square – a new artistic theme every year
- 100 presepi in the colonnades of St. Peter’s Square – international nativity scene exhibition
- Historical nativity scenes in basilicas such as Santa Maria Maggiore, Santa Maria in Aracoeli, and San Pietro in Vincoli
- Live nativity scenes in and around Rome (e.g., Tarquinia)
For many visitors, Rome’s nativity scenes are among the most impressive moments of the entire Advent season.
The nativity scene in 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.
The Christmas nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square in 2025 comes from Nocera in Campania. The scene depicts typical elements of the area: an early Christian baptistery, a fountain from Roman times, houses with courtyards, and tuff stone, which is typical of the region. Shepherds offering their harvest, religious symbols, and historical figures complete the picture. The approximately 27-meter-high spruce tree comes from South Tyrol, from the slopes of the mountain ridge between Venosta Valley and Val d’Ultimo. It is a donation from the municipalities of Ulten and Algund.
There are also nativity scenes on display in the Audience Hall and in the Baptistery of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Nativity scenes from previous years
In St. Peter’s Square every year are exhibited interesting Christmas cribs in different styles and from different countries.
The 2024 Christmas nativity scene depicted life in the Grado lagoon (near Venice) around 100 years ago, with its characteristic landscape and a typical fisherman’s hut with a reed roof, the “casone.”
In 2023, the crib came from the nearby province of Rieti, where St. Francis set up his first crib 800 years ago in the village of Greccio. The situation of 800 years ago has been recreated in St. Peter’s Square. In addition to the Holy Family and the shepherds, St. Francis was seen with his confreres. Photo gallery of the 2023 nativity scene
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>
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.
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.
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.
St. Peter’s Square
December 8 16:00 – January 8 19:00 10-19 (Dec 24 + 31 10-17) Bus 23, 34, 40, 46, 62, 64, 98, 115, 280, 870, 881, 916, 982 (Lgt Sassia / S. Spirito), 23, 34, 40, 982 (Traspontina / Conciliazione)The nativity scene of the street sweepers (all year round)
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.
During the Christmas season, reservations are required to visit the nativity scene.
The crib is located in a building of the garbage disposal company between San Pietro station and the Vatican.
Via dei Cavalleggeri 59-12 Bus 34, 46, 98, 190F, 881, 916, 982 (Cavallegeri / San Pietro)
Nativity scene exhibition in the Basilica of St. Anthony
A nativity scene exhibition with scenes from 18th-century Rome can be found in the crypt of the Basilica of St. Anthony on Via Merlana. Admission is free.
Via Merulana 124 Dec. 12 -Jan 10 16:30-19:00, on holidays also 9:30-12:45 Bus 16, 51, 85, 87, 714 Tram 3 (Manzoni / Merulana)December 13, 2025: Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
Live nativity scene on Saturday, December 13, 2025
Saturday, December 13, 2025
In the morning, audience of the nativity scene participants with Pope Leo in the audience hall.
11:30 Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore: Entry of the nativity scene participants through the Holy Door and Holy Mass.
2:30 p.m. Start of the procession with historical groups, historical musical instruments, flag bearers, and marching bands.
The live nativity scene of Tarquinia postponed to Jan. 11
100 kilometers north of Rome, in the Benedictine convent of Tarquinia , there is a living nativity scene beginning at 5 pm on December 26 and on January 6 postponed to Jan. 11 due to bad weather. It is a big spectacle with fire-eaters and fakirs and local culinary specialties.
How to get to Tarquinia: Regional train 4134 at 2:12pm from Termini with arrival at 3:27 in Tarquinia or train 4136 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 10:26pm. 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.
Vatican Events at Christmas
Christmas Eve Mass (Midnight Mass)
Held on December 24 in St. Peter’s Basilica with Pope Leo. Tickets are free but extremely limited—request them well in advance.
Urbi et Orbi Blessing (December 25)
At noon, the Pope delivers the famous blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Believers line up along Via di Conciliazione to receive the blessing. To gain access to St. Peter’s Square, it is necessary to arrive very early.
New Year’s and Epiphany
Both feature beautiful liturgies attended by visitors from around the world.
If you want to experience religious Christmas traditions, Rome is the place to be.
All dates can be found on the page December in Rome>
Ice rinks & winter fun
In addition to traditional Christmas cheer, there are many activities for families and couples:
- Ice rinks in Villa Borghese, Piazza Re di Roma, Piazza Cavour, or EUR
- Luneur Park Winter Edition: Santa Claus, children’s attractions, light show
- Cinecittà World: Christmas village, video mapping, shows, and rides
In 2025, the new Ferris wheel in EUR will be the central highlight for winter photos and sightseeing rides.r winterliche Fotos & Aussichtsfahrten sein.
Ice skating
During the Christmas season, various ice rinks are set up in Rome. At all the rinks you can find skate rental.
Christmas World, Villa Borghese (November 29–January 11)
Ice Park Piazza Re di Roma (December 8–January 6)
Ice Park Piazza Cavour (December 1–January 6)
Luneur Park
EUR Christmas Village, Metro B EUR Palasport (November 26–January 11)
Luneur
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.
Via delle Tre Fontane, 100
Bus 30/130F, 170, 714, 791, N2, N3 Colombo/AgricolturaCinecittà World
Christmas at Cinecittà World
Next to the outlet center Castel Romano. Christmas in the Cinecittà World Amusement park with roller coaster, virtual flight with Santa Claus and many other attractions. Cinecittà World
Christmas Shopping in Rome
Rome is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts in December:
- Via del Corso & Via dei Condotti: fashion, luxury brands, and festive lighting
- Rione Parione (Piazza Navona) & side streets: small boutiques
- Via Cola di Rienzo: boutiques, perfumeries, coffee roasters, and delicatessens
- La Rinascente – Via del Tritone: designer labels, rooftop view, and Roman aqueduct in the basement
Many stores have extended opening hours before Christmas—ideal for last-minute gifts.
For more details, see our category shopping in Rome.
In our photo galleries we show you our walks through the atmospheric streets of the city, with decorated stores and with mulled wine.
Cuisine: What do Romans eat at Christmas?
Culinary traditions are an integral part of Roman Christmas:
December 24 (Christmas Eve):
Light fish dishes, vegetables, pasta.
December 25 (Christmas Day):
- Antipasti
- Lasagna or cannelloni
- Lamb (“abbacchio”) or rabbit
- Panettone, pandoro & torrone
- To finish: espresso + grappa or limoncello (“ammazzacaffè”).
Practical tips for Christmas in Rome in 2026
Public transport
- December 24: Services end earlier (metro usually until around 9 p.m.)
- December 25: Holiday schedule, reduced frequency
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.
Museums
- Many state museums are closed on December 25 and January 1
- Vatican Museums: closed on December 25, December 26, January 1, and January 6
- Please note: There are large crowds during the Christmas season → Reserve tickets early!
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
Safety
- The city center (Piazza Navona, St. Peter’s Square, Via del Corso) can get very crowded.
- Important events such as the papal blessing are very popular – arrive early.
Conclusion: Is Rome worth visiting at Christmas 2026?
Yes, absolutely! Christmas in Rome offers the perfect blend of tradition, enjoyment, culture, and a festive atmosphere. Highlights include the wide variety of nativity scenes, the Christmas village in EUR, and the 50-meter Ferris wheel. The city will be even more spectacular this year.
Spend Advent or New Year’s Eve in Rome and experience one of the most beautiful and atmospheric times of the year in a city that celebrates Christmas with heart, history, and sparkle.
FAQ – Christmas in Rome 2026
Is Rome worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes—Christmas is one of the most magical times to experience Rome.
When do Christmas markets open?
Most open from late November. Piazza Navona starts in early December.
When is the main Christmas tree lighting?
The official Rome Christmas tree on Piazza del Popolo is lit on December 8.
What is celebrated on December 8?
The Feast of the Immacolata, officially opening the Christmas season in Italy.
Can I attend Christmas Eve Mass?
Yes, but tickets are limited and must be requested early.
Can we see the Pope in Rome at Christmas?
Yes. On December 25 at 12 noon, the Pope gives the solemn blessing “Urbi et Orbi” from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. This is free to attend, but very well attended.
What is the weather like in Rome at Christmas?
Expect 45–58°F (7–14°C) during the day and cooler nights. Occasional rain mixed with crisp, sunny winter days.
Is Christmas in Rome worth it for families?
Absolutely! Ice rinks, the Christmas village in EUR, Luneur Park, Christmas World in Villa Borghese, and many nativity scenes make Rome a perfect destination for families with children.
How long does public transport run in Rome at Christmas?
On December 24, the last departure is at 9 p.m. On December 25, operating hours are 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Termini – Centocelle only until 1 p.m.). On December 26, the holiday schedule applies and the metro runs until 1:30 a.m. Night buses run as usual.
Will be in Rome during Christmas. I need to get to a dinner Christmas day evening around 7:30 pm & be picked up around 11:30 pm. Are the taxis running at that time? I heard that transportation is limited on Christmas.
Hi Thomas,
Very few taxis are available on Christmas Eve. I would therefore recommend you to reserve a driver in time.