Rome in December is a MAGICAL time of year and I highly recommend visiting when the weather is cool and the city glitters to life with vibrant Christmas decorations.
Yes, you’ll need a warm coat and plenty of thick layers to stay toasty in Rome in December.
But, if you can handle the cold, and the crowds that flock here for Christmas in Rome, you’ll love seeing the Christmas decorations, attending midnight mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, and more.
So, stop stressing and use this epic guide to winter in Rome to figure out what to wear in Rome in December, the weather in Rome in December, the best things to do in Rome in December, and more.
After all, I have been to Rome MANY times and December is one of my all-time favorite months to visit this city.
Now, have a look at this incredible guide and find out exactly what to expect from this city in December. This way you can better plan for an amazing trip to Rome.
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Is It a Good Time to Go to Rome in December?
If you don’t mind cold weather and a bit of rain then December is a GREAT time to visit Rome. Firstly, December is the beginning of the low season.
Yeah, the cost of flights and hotel rooms starts dropping in November in Rome. They continue to go down all winter in Rome and only increase for Christmas and New Year.
The same holds true for crowds. The city will be pretty empty all month long and only fill up with people for Christmas and New Year.
So, if you hate crowds and want to save money on hotels and airfare, visit Rome before December 20th (roughly).
However, if you don’t mind crowds, have money to spend, and love Christmas/New Year celebrations then visit at the end of the month.
This is a fun and festive time of year that offers visitors a unique experience in Rome.
Just be sure to book EVERYTHING (hotels, tours, attraction tickets, flights, etc.) WELL in advance since this is a very popular time to visit the city.
If it were me, I would try and visit earlier in the month to avoid high prices and large crowds in the city. I would also spend more than a day in Rome since there is a lot to do.
What is the Weather Like in December in Rome?
I’m not gonna lie to you, the weather in Rome in December can be cold. So, bring your warm clothes and wear plenty of layers.
Obviously, it will get a bit colder as the month progresses. But, you can expect average daily lows of 4°C (39°F) in the evening and early morning mornings.
You can also expect average daily highs of 12°C (54°F) in the afternoon.
Therefore, it’s not FRIGID. But, you’ll need a warm winter coat, especially in the evening or if you plan to spend a day in Milan. Yeah, I found Milan a lot colder than Rome.
In terms of rain, you can expect around eight days of precipitation throughout the month. So, I would 100% pack a waterproof coat and an umbrella to help you stay dry.
I would also consider wearing warm, waterproof shoes or boots. After all, there’s nothing worse than walking around with wet feet during your 48 hours in Rome.
Staying warm is especially important since you won’t experience a lot of daylight. After all, the sun tends to rise at 7:30 am and set at 4:40 pm. So, you’ll only have around nine hours of daylight per day.
Therefore, plan accordingly and wear lots of warm clothes since the temperature can drop quite a bit once the sun goes down.
What to Eat in December in Rome?
Some amazing, must-try foods in December in Rome are:
- Artichokes – These bad boys of the veggie world are available EVERYWHERE in winter. So, enjoy them fried (alla giudia) or stewed. I prefer them fried but, honestly, artichokes in Rome are always a good idea.
- Oranges/Clementines – I was surprised when went to the market and saw that so many citrus fruits were in season. But, it’s true. So, pick some up and enjoy a nice glass of fresh OJ.
- Chicory – Chicory is served raw or cooked. I like it in puntarelle which is a raw chicory salad. The Chicory is nice and crunchy and adorned with lemon, garlic, olive oil, salt, and anchovies.
- Fennel – Fennel season is winding down but you can still enjoy it with some potatoes and cheese. So DANG good.
- Persimmon – I love this fruit and tried it for the first time in South Korea since it’s not really a thing in the USA. It’s delicious and I like to eat it as is since it’s super sweet and delicious. Just remember that the Persimmon season starts to wind down in December.
You could also try a Rome half-day tour and taste some of the best food in Rome that way.
Events in December in Rome
Unlike September in Rome and October in Rome, there is A LOT going on in December.
So, some public holidays you should be aware of are the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th, Christmas on December 25th, and St. Stephen’s Day on December 26th.
Most major, non-religious attractions will be open on December 8th but a lot of things can be closed on December 25th and 26th.
So, plan ahead, check attraction websites before you visit, and create an itinerary around what is and is not open.
For example, the Colosseum will be closed on December 25th only while the Vatican Museum will be closed on December 25th and 26th.
On the whole, the city is pretty quiet the night of the 24th through the 26th.
Most stores tend to close early on Christmas Eve and the only things open on Christmas Day are restaurants and movie theaters.
Therefore, I would try to visit free attractions, like the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, on days when most other museums and attractions will be closed.
In terms of special December events, you can always enjoy things like:
- Attend the Christmas Market at Piazza Navona – Held from December 1st through January 6th, this vibrant Christmas market features festive nativity scenes, beautiful decorations, carnival games, a carousel, and Christmas tree ornaments for sale. You can also try delicious seasonal foods like sugared apples, chestnuts, licorice, torrone, and porchetta.
- See the Nutcracker “Lo Schiaccianoci” – I attend this show during Christmas in New York and absolutely love it. It is a great way to get into the spirit of the season and is shown at the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma from December 20th through December 31st.
- See Christmas World at Villa Borghese – This amazing spectacle is held from December 1st through January 7th. It takes you around the world and across 30,000 square meters of space as you see various shows, installations, and go ice skating beneath the “Brooklyn Bridge”.
Best Things to Do in Rome in December
There are some really cool things to do in Rome in December. Check out some of my faves below and create the perfect itinerary today.
1. Marvel at the Christmas Lights
Every year Rome puts up a dazzling array of Christmas lights that are truly stunning to behold.
If you want to see these lights for yourself, then visit Rome any time after the Immaculate Conception on December 8th.
TBH, I would visit later in the month to see Christmas lights since they only start going up around the 8th.
However, once Christmas rolls around then you’ll be able to see awesome lights in places like Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Venezia, Via del Corso, Via dei Coronari, St, Peter’s Square, Galleria Alberto Sordi, etc.
Another great place to go is the Vatican. They have an amazing Nativity scene on display in St. Peter’s Square and it is a great thing to do if you’re visiting Rome on a budget (it’s totally free).
Try to stop by on Christmas Eve (or after) when baby Jesus has been added to the display. You can also ask some of the hostels in Rome for more advice.
2. Attend Midnight Mass with the Pope
If you want to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience in Rome then try attending midnight mass with the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica over Christmas in Rome.
I TRIED to do this the very first time I visited Rome and slept through the service (whoops).
Anyway, tickets are free but you do have to sign up well in advance since this service is very popular. Therefore, plan to reserve a ticket between 2 and 6 months in advance.
It’s also worth noting that the mass begins at 9:15 pm, not midnight. So, don’t roll up at midnight and expect to attend mass because it’s not gonna happen.
Yes, the area will be crowded since thousands of people are in attendance. But, I have since gone to the mass and the whole experience has a very concert-like vibe that I love.
Also, it’s one of those things you do once and can then tick off your bucket list.
Expert Tip: This is not about religion but about the unity of upwards of 15,000 people. So, even if you’re not Catholic you are welcome and encouraged to attend this mass.
If you are Catholic, you may also want to sign up for one of the best tours of Rome for Catholics.
3. See The Pope’s Speech on Christmas Day
If you aren’t a night owl or don’t feel like attending midnight mass (or couldn’t get a ticket) then see the Pope’s Christmas Day speech instead.
This is a magical event (it also takes place on Easter) where the Pope gives his blessings to the people and delivers an address at 12:00 pm on Christmas Day.
This event takes place at the Vatican and you are welcome to attend. No tickets are required but I would arrive around a half-hour early so that you have time to go through security.
Overall, I love the super festive vibe since it includes lots of singing and Christmas carols.
4. Celebrate the Immaculate Conception (Immacolata) on December 8th
The Immaculate Conception takes place on December 8th and is a holiday that celebrates Mary’s conception without sin.
This is a public holiday in Italy so most stores will be closed. However, most landmark sites will be open, with the exception of religious spots like the Vatican Museums.
If you want to do something unique that only happens in Rome then head to St. Peter’s Square to hear the Pope give the Angelus. It’s free and is only fifteen minutes long.
Otherwise, head over to Piazza Mignanelli. It sits near the Spanish Steps and at 4:00 pm the Pope will change the wreath of the Madonna.
Okay, real talk? The Pope doesn’t change the wreath. He used to do it, but now a local fireman changes the wreath instead. However, the Pope still attends the event, so that’s pretty cool.
Also, be prepared for large crowds and lots of security since this event has gotten MEGA popular in recent years. Therefore, try to arrive well before 4:00 pm if you want to attend.
Expert Tip: Expect large crowds in Rome if the holiday falls on a Monday or a Friday since it will be a long weekend in Italy.
5. Attend Some New Year’s Eve Parties
One of the best things to do in Rome in December is to attend a fun New Year’s Eve party on December 31st.
After all, Rome is a popular place to ring in the New Year since the city has a fun, festive atmosphere that visitors love.
For a vivacious celebration, head to iconic spots like the Colosseum or Piazza del Popolo. Highlights include fireworks, a New Year-style countdown, and live music.
Other places with fun New Year’s Eve celebrations are the Hard Rock Cafe and Circus Maximus for a cool New Year’s Eve concert.
6. Explore Orto Botanico
Take a moment to clear your mind and breathe in the fresh air at Orto Botanico di Roma.
Tucked away within the vast expanse of Janiculum Hill, this Botanical Garden is a captivating hidden gem that solo travelers in Rome will love.
Situated just north of Trastevere, where you can find some of the coolest food tours in Rome, it features an extensive collection that includes 8,000+ plant species from around the globe.
Easily accessible and a photographer’s dream, the 12-hectare park is a welcome respite from the chaotic city. Plus, entry is a bargain at just €4.00 per person.
7. Visit the Colosseum
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (42179 Reviews) Price: $60+ per person Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies Operator: Crown Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
You absolutely must visit the Colosseum during your time in Rome.
It stands out as one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is worth seeing in December since the sun is less harsh and the crowds are minimal.
Be sure to plan this activity for a sunny day, since walking around in the rain can be kind of a drag.
If possible, opt for a guided tour of the Colosseum. This way you can enjoy fun stories about battle-ready gladiators, get skip-the-line access, and will also be able to visit the Roman Forum/Palatine Hill.
“Our tour guide Matej was amazing! Really knowledgeable and funny. The tour was appropriately paced. Matej kept it interesting the whole time. Easy to find. When we arrived to the meeting point we were directed to their office to check in, this was visible from the meeting point.”
Paige (read more reviews now)
Overall, I had an incredible time here, captured stunning photos of the Emperor’s Palace, and loved exploring this remarkable amphitheater with my local guide.
8. Explore the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (5429 Reviews) Price: $90.00+ per person Duration: 2.5-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Via Mocenigo 15 Operator: Crown Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Explore the museum’s extensive four miles of galleries and I dare you not to be impressed.
However, do know that this place is insanely large. Therefore, hiring a guide is highly recommended.
This way you can make the most of your visit and see all of the museum’s major highlights without getting lost.
“It was a great tour covering the must-see elements of the Vatican city. Elena, the tour guide, was so knowledgeable and friendly. She told us amazing stories about Vatican, its history, Michelangelo paintings and sculptures and lots of other great stuff.”
Pouira (read more reviews now)
As always, be prepared for insane crowds, even in December, since everyone wants to come here and stare at the awesome beauty of the Sistine Chapel.
It’s understandable though since Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling frescoes depicting the Last Judgment are incredible.
As a result, you’ll find around 2000 visitors here at any given moment and should book tickets well in advance.
9. Explore the Capitoline Museums
Learn more about ancient Roman history at the world’s oldest museum, the Capitoline Museum.
This unique museum dates back to 1471 and includes a stunning collection of Renaissance art and sculptures, including the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius and the Capitoline Venus.
Other must-sees include the Lupa Capitolina (Capitoline Wolf) and the Galata morente (Dying Gaul) as well as a wide array of paintings from masters like Caravaggio, Titian, Rubens, and Tintoretto.
December is an especially good time to visit since it coincides with a series of awesome winter exhibitions.
10. Visit the Pantheon
Without a doubt, this is one of the best things to do in Rome in the winter.
See, the Pantheon is a 2,000-year-old temple that was originally designed to honor the seven planetary Gods by Marcus Agrippa.
Later, the temple was converted into a church by Emperor Hadrian and now stands as one of Rome’s most well-preserved ancient monuments. In fact, has been a central landmark in Rome since 125 CE.
Despite its weathered exterior, walking through the bronze doors and gazing up at the 9-meter-wide (29.5 feet) oculus is truly awe-inspiring.
This experience is made even more magnificent by the light streaming through the oculus that illuminates the royal tombs inside this building’s marble walls, like that of Renaissance painter, Raphael.
Sadly, visiting the Pantheon is no longer free and you must now pay €5.00 to enter.
What to Wear in December in Rome
Is Rome the coldest city in Europe in winter? No, not a chance. However, it still gets quite cold in the mornings and evenings and you’ll need to bundle up.
I would pack a scarf, hat, gloves, a waterproof winter coat, long johns, a fleece, waterproof boots, warm socks, long t-shirts, pants, etc.
That being said, temperatures do warm up quite a bit during the day. Therefore, layers will be key when deciding what to wear in Rome in December.
I like wearing lots of layers in Rome in winter because I can bundle up in the morning and then take off extra layers when things warm up in the afternoon.
I would also recommend packing some waterproof boots, coats, and luggage since December can be a bit of a rainy/snowy month in Rome.
TBH, you probably won’t need to wear a coat during the day and can probably skip the hat, gloves, and scarf if you are visiting earlier in the month.
Conclusion
Overall December is one of my favorite times to visit Rome. I love the cooler weather and enjoy seeing all the Christmas lights come to life across the city.
Personally, I hate crowds and love to save money on hotels/flights. So, I recommend visiting BEFORE December 20th since this is off-season in Rome.
However, there is something special about Christmas in Rome, even if it is peak season.
So, if you have the cash and don’t mind the crowds, then give it a try and let me know what you think.
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