Check out what Christmas and New Year’s are like in Rome. Here we give you all the tips you need to make the most of the end of the year in the Italian capital.
Christmas tree in Rome
The national holiday of the Immaculate Conception takes place every year on December 8, and this is precisely when the Christmas decorations appear all over Rome. In fact, the largest Christmas tree is in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
Another tree that attracts all eyes at this time of year is the one in front of the Colosseum. It’s well worth going there in the evening and enjoying this tourist attraction that becomes even more beautiful at Christmas.
- Important tip: Rome is a city with many tourist attractions, such as museums and tours. That’s why our tip is to always buy your tickets in advance. We buy everything on this website that has the best price.
Attend Christmas mass in Rome
The most traditional religious event at Christmas is the well-known Midnight Mass, which takes place in the Basilica di San Pietro in the Vatican. In order to guarantee that you will be able to attend Mass in the Basilica, you need to plan ahead as places are very hard to come by.
Below, we’ve listed 3 steps for attending Mass there:
- Firstly, go to the Vatican website, fill in the form available and send it to them by fax, preferably during the months of September to November;
- The reply comes by post in December. If your application is successful, just follow the instructions and be at the door of the Basilica on the scheduled date and time;
- If your request is denied or you don’t want to go through all this trouble, we suggest that you attend Mass in St. Peter’s Square, which is equipped with a series of big screens for those interested to watch.
Stroll along Via del Corso at Christmas in Rome
Via del Corso, considered to be one of the main shopping streets in Rome, is beautifully decorated at Christmas, changing every year and becoming even more innovative. It’s well worth going there to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and do some shopping.
Christmas market in Rome
Another attraction of this time of year in Rome are the traditional Christmas markets that are dotted around the city. They are very interesting because they are designed by merchants from all over Europe and offer various handicrafts and typical gastronomic products.
The best known of these is in Piazza Navona, one of the most important squares in the Italian capital. Sales usually start in December and last until a few days before Christmas.
Christmas dinner and lunch in Rome
Like many destinations, many restaurants in Rome are not open on the evening of the 24th and for lunch on the 25th. Therefore, it is best to call the establishment in advance and make sure it will be open.
Another tip is to book your place in advance, as they are even more crowded on these dates. It’s also worth paying attention to the prices of meals, which can increase due to the commemorative dates.
About New Year’s Eve in Rome
It’s common for people to spend New Year’s Eve with friends and family around a lavishly decorated table. This tradition takes place not only in Rome, but also throughout Italy.
The dishes are usually very typical, but it’s quite common to have lentils and pork, as Italians believe that lentils resemble small coins and bring wealth, while the fat content of pork means abundance and prosperity for the coming year.
- Important tip: to make the most of your trip to Rome, staying in the best areas is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the main areas, the hotels and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
Piazza del Popolo on New Year’s Eve in Rome
A great place to spend New Year’s Eve in the Italian capital is Piazza del Popolo. There you’ll often find tourists and locals alike, so the square gets even busier. In addition, the government also organizes some performances and concerts there. The program can be consulted just after Christmas.
Restaurants to spend New Year’s Eve in Rome
You can also opt for a quieter New Year’s Eve away from the hustle and bustle of the city’s squares. All you need to do is make a reservation at a good restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine. As we’ve already mentioned, it’s important to book well in advance to be able to go to the restaurant.
Watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Rome
The fireworks display is always something to look forward to in many destinations, and it’s no different in Rome. There, the fireworks usually last a long time and delight tourists and locals alike. That’s why it’s super worth going to a place where you can get a good view of the event.
Piazza Navona on New Year’s Eve in Rome
Piazza Navona is also a great place to spend New Year’s Eve, especially if you’re looking for more excitement. There are several bars there with great drinks and attractive atmospheres.
Temperature and weather on New Year’s Eve in Rome
It’s precisely at this time of year that Rome is at its coldest, with falling temperatures. Therefore, we recommend that you take heavy coats, gloves and scarves.
Save money on your trip to Rome:
Saving money: do you want to plan your trip while making the most of your budget? Be sure to read our article on how to travel to Rome cheap, with all the tips to save the most, while still enjoying it!
Tickets: find out where to buy your Rome tickets in the cheapest and safest way – for parks, museums and ticket combos. You can save up to 40%!
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Hotels: our article on where to stay in Rome. You will find out the best area and how to save a lot on the hotel.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
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