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Rome in December: Weather, Events, & Things to Do

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A snow covered Roman Forum

A snow covered Roman Forum. Creative commons photo by StartAgain via Flickr.

Most people who plan vacations in Rome are thinking about visiting during the summer, when the sun is shining and the kids are out of school. But a trip to Rome in December can be magical – even if it’s cold. Here are some things to know about Rome in December before you go.

Winter in Rome can be more wet than white. November is generally the month with the most rain, but December can see quite a bit of rainfall, too. Still, it’s not unheard of for snow to blanket The Eternal City, which always makes the ancient monuments even more photogenic. It’s particularly fun to be in the Pantheon when it snows, flakes falling through the dome’s giant oculus onto the marble floor. Temperatures can range from the mid-30s F to the low-50s F, so be sure to bring warm (and water resistant) clothing and shoes.

December in Rome is something of a “low season,” although the city is popular year-round so it never quite empties of tourists. You’ll see fewer travelers in December, though, which means shorter lines at museums and lower prices on things like airfare and hotels. The exception to this is around the holidays, which are a mini-spike in prices and visitor numbers. Rome’s main attractions are open for business as usual in December, although many have shorter hours in the winter months.

Be on the lookout for winter treats like roasted chestnuts – sold from carts in public squares and on sidewalks, and served up in little paper bags that warm the hands – and “cioccolato caldo.” Italy’s version of hot chocolate is more pudding-like than watery, and it’s incredibly rich. You’ll savor a tiny cup slowly, and it’ll warm you from the inside out. You’ll also see holiday baked goods appearing in shop windows, such as “panettone” (Milan’s famous Christmas bread).

Whether you’re in Rome for Christmas or simply visiting in early December, you’ll see the city in holiday mode. There are outdoor Christmas markets in Rome in a few places, including the famous Piazza Navona, where you can pick up last-minute gifts for people back home, get some holiday souvenirs for yourself, and sample some Italian Christmas treats. December 8th is a national holiday in Italy (marking the Immaculate Conception), which usually includes a Papal parade from the Vatican to Piazza di Spagna. December 25-26 are also national holidays. On all of these days, shops, banks, restaurants, and some monuments will be closed.

Take a walking tour of Rome on Christmas Day to enjoy the city at its festive best with an expert local guide.

- Jessica Spiegel

Rome in December: Weather, Events, & Things to Do from Viator Rome


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