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December in Rome is a truly special experience. The city transforms into a festive masterpiece: fairy lights illuminate the shopping streets, almost every church displays a beautifully crafted nativity scene and St. Peter’s Square glows with its Christmas tree and crib.
Until 24 December the city is pleasantly calm – hotels and flights are available at attractive prices and the sights can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. From Christmas onwards Rome comes alive again: pilgrims from around the world flood the city, the Vatican and city centre fill up and the festive days give Rome a unique spiritual and celebratory atmosphere.
5 Reasons to Visit Rome in December
There are fewer tourists in Rome before Christmas. This means that lodging is cheaper, and even high-end hotels can be booked at reasonable prices.
The climate in Rome in December is mild. There is no frost.
In the lead-up to Christmas, Rome is beautifully decorated. The city sparkles with festive lights and decorations. Special attractions include the Christmas tree and nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square. Almost all churches have lovingly designed nativity scenes.
During the Christmas season, Rome becomes a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. Main streets such as Via del Corso, Via dei Condotti, and Via Cola di Rienzo are festively decorated, inviting you to stroll and shop amid their elegant storefronts. You will find a mix of luxury boutiques, international fashion brands, and unique Italian designer stores here.
Roman winter cuisine is particularly popular during the cold season. This includes fried rice balls, fried fish, traditional Roman pasta dishes, and oxtail. It is also the season for artichokes, which are prepared in special ways in Rome.
Our Top Pick for First-Time Visitors: Welcome to Rome Multimedia Show Tickets
Show exploring Rome’s history plus interactive exhibition models
Location: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 203 
How to get there: Bus 46, 62, 64, 916 Bus stop C.so Vittorio Emanuele / Navona
Weather in Rome in December
- Temperature: daytime 8–14 °C (46–57 °F), nights 3–7 °C (37–44 °F)
- Rain: December is among the wetter months – pack an umbrella
What to pack for Rome in December: A warm jacket or coat is needed in the evenings and on cooler days. Layering underneath allows easy adjustment during the day. Waterproof shoes with good grip are very practical on wet cobblestones. Also pack: an umbrella or rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes for long Christmas strolls and a belt bag to protect against pickpockets. For sacred sites – St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the catacombs – shoulders and knees must be covered. Leave room in your suitcase for Christmas shopping – the window displays along Via dei Condotti and Via del Corso are hard to resist.
Christmas in Rome
- St. Peter’s Basilica & Vatican: The Christmas tree and nativity scene on St. Peter’s Square are iconic.
- Christmas Mass: The Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on December 24 is world-famous (tickets required).
- Christmas markets: The Piazza Navona market is the most popular, featuring lights, sweets, and artisan crafts.
More about Christmas in Rome
Attractions in December
Rome’s sights are just as impressive in winter:
- Colosseum & Roman Forum – quieter and atmospheric in cooler weather
- Pantheon & Piazza della Rotonda – ideal spot for a coffee break
- Spanish Steps & Via Condotti – spectacular holiday lights and shopping
- Piazza del Popolo – home to Rome’s large Christmas tree
- Museums (Vatican Museums, Borghese Gallery) – perfect for rainy days
St. Peter’s Basilica is closed during papal celebrations, for which an invitation is required. In addition to Wednesday audiences, there are some Papal Masses. For more information, see Events and the holiday calendar.
Admission is free on the first Sunday of the month
Vatican Museums
Admission Monday – Saturday 8 am – 6 pm, closing time 8 pm. Closed on Sundays and December 8, 25 and 26. Closing on December 24 and 31 at 3 pm.
Free admission on the last Sunday of the month 9 – 12:30 Closing 14:00.
National and Municipal Museums
All national museums and museums in the municipality of Rome offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Municipal museums are closed on December 25. You can find the complete list of museums on our Museums in Rome page.
Exhibitions in Rome in December
Rome in December is not only known for its festive holiday atmosphere, but also for a wide range of art exhibitions and special showcases in museums and galleries. Whether you are interested in classical art, ancient collections, or contemporary works, the city’s cultural institutions offer a rich program during the winter months. Exhibitions are also a great option on cooler or rainy days.
Events in Rome in December
In addition to the Christmas spirit, Rome offers many cultural and traditional events in December. From seasonal festivities and open-air activities to theater performances and local traditions, there is always something happening throughout the city. December provides visitors with a diverse cultural program for all tastes.
- December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception – ceremony with the Pope at the Spanish Steps
- December 24–25: Christmas celebrations and papal masses at the Vatican
- December 31 / New Year’s Eve: Concerts and fireworks, especially near the Colosseum and Piazza del Popolo
- Nativity displays: Elaborate cribs in many of Rome’s churches
Porta Portese Market
every Sunday 7:00 – 14:00 Flea market & antiques
between Porta Portese and Via Ippolito Nievo
Ponte Milvio Market
Antiques market every Sunday
Between Ponte Milvio and Ponte Duca D’Aosta
Traffic-calmed Sunday
December 6, Traffic-calmed Sunday – driving ban for private vehicles with combustion engines in the city center
7:30 am – 12:30 pm, 4:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Christmas concert in the Vatican
Dec. 12 17:00 Auditorio della Conciliazione https://www.concertodinatale.it/en/home-eng/
Broadcast on 24.12. in the evening program of Canale 5
Sport
ATLETICOM WE RUN ROME
10 km run and 5 km run
Dec. 31 14:00, Stadio delle Terme di Caracalla
Concerts in Rome in December
Music plays a special role in Rome during December. From classical concerts in historic churches to modern shows in large venues, the city offers a wide variety of musical experiences. Christmas concerts in particular create a festive atmosphere and are a wonderful complement to sightseeing.
Rome’s Music Park
A jewel is the Parco della Musica, built by the internationally known architect Renzo Piano, in northern Rome on Via Flaminia. See all events here. Events and tickets
Tram 2
There are several auditoriums and an open-air stage in the Parco della Musica. There are performances in all styles.
Some events are also organized together with the Casa del Jazz. Events and Tickets Casa del Jazz
Bus 160, 671, 714, 792
Travel Tips for Rome in December
- Accommodation: Outside of Christmas and New Year’s, hotels are more affordable due to low season
- Tickets: Reserve in advance for papal masses and popular attractions like the Vatican Museums
- Transport: Public transport runs regularly, but may have holiday schedules
- Food & drink: Try seasonal specialties like panettone, hot chocolate, and mulled wine
Conclusion: Is Rome Worth Visiting in December?
Absolutely. Rome in December combines culture, spirituality, and holiday charm. With fewer crowds, festive lights, Christmas markets, and special events, visiting the Eternal City in winter is a truly unforgettable experience.
FAQ
Is December a good time to visit Rome?
There are few tourists in Rome until the 24th of December. It’s a very good time to get to know the city and its sights. The Holy Year begins on Dec. 24 and many pilgrims will come to Rome. The Vatican and the city center will be very crowded.
What should I bring to Rome in December?
In December, you will need warm clothes, rain protection and comfortable shoes. Leave enough room in your suitcase for Christmas shopping and a fashion accessory or two.
What to do in Rome in December
December is a good time to visit museums and churches and enjoy the excellent Roman cuisine. Stroll the streets decorated for the holidays and shop for Italian fashion, culinary specialties and antiques.
