January is low season in Rome. It’s the ideal time to visit museums, go shopping and enjoy delicious winter specialties.
5 reasons to visit Rome in January
January in Rome offers mild temperatures compared to other European cities. Romans enjoy the delicious Roman winter cuisine in a cozy restaurant.
For tourists, January is ideal for visiting museums and churches as it is not as crowded as the high season. Take your time and enjoy the cultural treasures of Rome and the Vatican at your leisure.
Accommodation is reasonably priced. Enjoy the best location between the Colosseum and the Piazza del Popolo. Almost all the sights are within walking distance. For tips on cheap accommodation, see our information on hotels in Rome.
The end of the Christmas season also marks the beginning of the winter sales. Take the opportunity to go shopping in Rome. From luxury brands to budget goods, you will find the latest fashions at greatly reduced prices.
The museums offer numerous exhibitions and the music scene offers a wide range of classical concerts, musicals and operas.
A must-see for first-time visitors: Welcome to Rome Multimedia Show Tickets
Show about the history of Rome and exhibition with interactive models
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 203 
Bus 46, 62, 64, 916 Bus stop C.so Vittorio Emanuele / Navona
The weather in Rome in January
January is the coldest month in Rome. However, compared to Northern Europe, the temperatures are mild. Frost is rare.
It can rain occasionally in January, but the rain usually doesn’t last long.
It is memorable when it snows in Rome or when the fountains freeze. This happens only once every three or four years. This special spectacle is then reported in all the newspapers.
Climate data January
| Tmax Ø | 11°C/51,8°F |
| Tmin Ø | 4°C/39,2°F |
| Sunshine hours Ø | 3,7 |
| Days with rain Ø | 8 |
Source: www.wetter.com
What to wear in Rome in January
In winter, Romans dress as if they were going on an expedition to the North Pole. But it only gets really cold in the evening. In addition to a scarf and hat, you should pack a raincoat or umbrella in case of showers.
Comfortable shoes are also important, as you will be walking a lot.
Opening hours in January
St. Peter’s Basilica
Basilica 7-19.10 – dome 7.30-17 – treasure 7.30-18.30
St. Peter’s Basilica is closed during papal celebrations for which you need an invitation.
Vatican Museums
Admission Monday – Saturday 8 am – 6 pm, closing time 8 pm, closed on Sundays and January 1 and 6. Free admission on Sunday 26, 9 – 12:30 Closing 14:00.
Free entrance to National and Municipal Museums
In Rome, some of the museums belong to the municipality and some to the state.Free entrance to all National and Municipal Museums on January 5. You can find the complete list of museums on our Museums in Rome page.
Exhibitons Rome January
Events
Papal audiences and masses in January
General audiences of the Holy Father take place on Wednesdays at 9 am.
The Pope’s Angelus prayer takes place on Sundays and on January 6th at noon in St. Peter’s Square.
Papal masses are on January 1st and 6th.
Traffic-calmed Sunday
January 26, 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
January
No Events
Concerts
Rome has a lively music scene. Many pubs and music venues offer live music, especially on weekends. Classical music can be found in many churches and palaces.
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
FAQ
Is January a good time to visit Rome?
Rome is much less crowded in January than in the warmer months. Accommodation is cheap and churches and museums are calmer. Due to the winter sales, you can shop very well and cheaply in Rome.
What should I take with me to Rome in January?
In January in Rome you need warm clothes, rain protection and comfortable shoes. Leave enough space in your suitcase for the winter sales.
What can I do in Rome in January?
January is a good time to visit museums and churches and enjoy the excellent Roman cuisine. If you like to shop for the latest fashions, the winter sales are a great time to do so. Theaters, concert halls and the Music Park offer a rich program.