Best Things To Do In Rome At Christmas Time (2025)

Discover the best things to do in Rome at Christmas time, from festive markets to Vatican experiences, epic food, cozy stays, and day trips.

Rome is the #1 Christmas city for 2025, powered by the massive Jubilee celebrations expected to draw millions of pilgrims worldwide.

Unlike a London Christmas that’s exuberant and dazzling, Christmas in Rome is warm, traditional, quietly radiant, and steeped in old-world charm.

If you love twinkling lights, hot chocolate, ancient ruins, and the soothing knowledge that carbs don’t count on vacation, then Christmas in Rome is your personal holiday movie set.

🎅 Things To Do in Rome at Christmas Time

This guide brings together the best things to do in Rome at Christmas time – from Vatican celebrations to festive markets, food, stays, and day trips – perfect for anyone ready to live their Roman Holiday fantasy.

✝️ Christmas Mass & Vatican Jubilee

What is the Jubilee in Rome? It’s a special Holy Year in the Catholic Church that occurs only once every 25 years, drawing pilgrims to Rome for spiritual renewal and the ceremonial opening of the Holy Doors until the end of December and early January.

Celebrating Christmas at the Vatican during the Jubilee is incredibly meaningful, blending faith, history, and tradition. These Vatican tours help you explore that story more closely and appreciate the season with a deeper understanding.

Christmas Eve Mass with Pope Leo XIV Private Tour: Attend Vatican Christmas Eve Mass by the Pope at St. Peter’s Basilica with a luxurious chauffeured service and chaperone.
Papal Audience Experience with Pope Leo XIV: Devout travelers can’t miss this unforgettable Papal Audience, where they can listen to the Pope’s words of wisdom, hymns, and prayers.
Meet Pope Leo XIV at St Peter’s Square, Vatican City: Get a confirmed reservation that guarantees entry, plus a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Rome.
Rome Holy Doors Pilgrimage with Private Driver & Guide: Discover Rome’s Holy Doors with a private guide and driver for an intimate spiritual experience.
Jubilee 2025 Christian Basilicas 4 Door Private Tour: Walk through all Holy Doors and receive a full indulgence at Rome’s four main basilicas with this private van tour.
Celebrate the Ancient Jubilee in the 4 Papal Basilicas: Experience the 2025 Rome Jubilee with a tour of all four papal basilicas and the four Holy Doors.
Exclusive Clavigero Vatican Guided Tour in Rome: Enter the Vatican Museums at dawn with the key-keeper for a rare, crowd-free visit to the Sistine Chapel.
Vatican, Sistine & St. Peter’s Fast-Track Private Tour: Skip the line and get priority admission to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
VIP Vatican Breakfast & Tour with Sistine Chapel: American-style breakfast in the Vatican Courtyard and sightseeing through a fast-track entrance, minus the crowds.
Vatican Museums, Bramante Staircase, Niccoline & Sistine Chapels Private Tour: Off-limits to most visitors, the iconic double-helix spiral staircase is one of the highlights.
St Peter’s Basilica Tour with Dome Climb & Grottoes: Get a rare bird’s-eye view over Rome, then head underground to see the grottoes and St. Peter’s tomb.
Vatican Papal Tunnel & Castel Sant’Angelo: Secret corridor linking Vatican City to Castel Sant’Angelo, once used by popes as an escape route and featured in Angels & Demons.
Vatican Gardens: Spanning 23 hectares, these Renaissance and Baroque gardens are adorned with ornate fountains and sculptures. Visits require a private tour booked well in advance.
St. Peter’s Square Lights & Nativity Tour: Learn about Christmas traditions and legends.
Papal Blessing (Urbi et Orbi): Delivered from the central balcony on Christmas Day.
Christmas Mass in Pantheon (24 Dec, 6 pm): Book your ticket (free but pre-booking required) through the Pantheon’s official website or by calling the church directly.

Rome Vatican Tours

⛪ Vatican Entry Options Guide

Plan your visit to the Vatican efficiently with this guide to entry options, ticketing, and smart tips to avoid crowds.

🖼️ Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Skip-the-line/fast-track tours recommended.
Access via the Viale Vaticano main entrance.
Optional guided tours or internal passage to St. Peter’s Basilica.

⛪ St. Peter’s Basilica & Square

Free entry to the Basilica and the Square.
Ticketed extras: Dome climb, Necropolis, Treasury.
Access via Via della Conciliazione or internal passage from Museums.
Security check and dress code apply (shoulders/knees covered).

💡 Tips to Avoid Crowds

⏰ Visit Early: The First hour at the Museums is the quietest.
🔥 Hot tip: Enter with the key master (Clavigero) before the public.
🎫 Pre-Book Tickets: Skip-the-line/fast-track online tickets save hours.
📅 Choose Off-Peak Days: Visit on weekdays, avoid weekends.
🚪 Use Internal Passages: Some tours go from the Sistine Chapel → Basilica.
🌸 Shoulder Seasons: Visit Oct-Nov or Mar-Apr for fewer tourists.
🥾 Start at the End: Explore less popular galleries first.
🕒 Afternoon Basilica: Crowds thin in the late afternoon.
📱Check Live Updates: Apps show real-time crowd levels.

Rome Vatican Tours

🎅 Best Christmas Markets in Rome

Are there Christmas markets in Rome? Yes, and they’re full of crafts, chocolate, mulled wine, and festive Roman charm. And where are the Christmas markets in Rome? Mostly in historic piazzas and iconic parks across central neighborhoods.

Here are some unique ways to enjoy Rome’s Christmas lights, markets, and attractions:

- Christmas in Rome: Experience the festive magic of Rome this Christmas with a family-friendly tour through the Eternal City.
- New Year’s Private Tour of Rome: Toast to 2026 by Golf Cart as you enjoy Rome’s festive lights, a luxury champagne toast, and Iginio Massari’s artisanal panettone.
- Rome Christmas Lights Vespa Sidecar Tour: Take in the iconic highlights of Rome on a special Xmas evening tour with custom-built, modern, comfy Vespa Sidecars.
- Private Christmas Walking Tour with Local Guide: Discover festive lights, charming holiday markets, and hidden seasonal gems to make your visit truly memorable.

When do the Christmas markets in Rome start? Most run from late November to early January. Here are the dates for the Christmas markets in Rome for 2025:

Christmas World, Villa Borghese (1 Dec 2025 – 7 Jan 2026): Rome’s grandest park features artisan stalls, Santa’s Workshop, and an ice-skating rink.
Piazza Navona Christmas Market (1 Dec 2025 – 6 Jan 2026): Rome’s most famous festive market in a baroque square with carousel rides, sweets, crafts, and holiday charm.
Piazza Mazzini Market (1 Dec – 30 Dec 2025): Beloved neighborhood market offering handmade decorations, artisanal gifts, and a lively, local Roman atmosphere.
Piazza di Spagna Christmas Market (8 Dec 2025 – 6 Jan 2026): Home to the iconic Spanish Steps staircase and the boat-shaped Fontana della Barcaccia.
Auditorium Parco della Musica Market (1 Dec 2025 – 6 Jan 2026): A stylish, food-forward Christmas village featuring gourmet stalls, artisan products, and entertainment.
Campo de’ Fiori Pop-Ups (starts early December): Small but spirited festive stalls appear around the square, adding seasonal sparkle to one of Rome’s most historic piazzas.
Cinecittà World Christmas (8 Nov 2025 – 6 Jan 2026): Street performers, running waiters, a quirky mayor, and a festive flash mob you can join.
Borgo di Babbo Natale (22 Nov – 14 Dec 2025): A charming Santa’s village experience with markets, decorations, and family-friendly Christmas fun.
Vatican tree & Nativity Scenes in St. Peter’s Square (7 Dec 2025 – 12 Jan 2026): One of Rome’s biggest traditions – the Christmas tree and life-size nativity scene.
Capitoline Hill Christmas Tree (8 Dec 2025 – 6 Jan 2026): Lights up Piazza del Campidoglio with a festive glow.
Via dei Condotti & Via del Corso: Famous shopping streets shimmer with an iconic holiday glow, turning evening walks into pure Christmas magic.

Christmas markets in Rome, Italy, may not rival Germany’s Christmas markets in size, but they deliver heaps of character, making them the best places to see in Rome at Christmas time.

Rome Christmas Tours

🎆 How to Celebrate New Year’s in Rome

Ring in the New Year in Rome with unforgettable sights, festive traditions, incredible food, and dazzling fireworks across the Eternal City.

Book a New Year’s Eve concert & dinner.
Book a NYE cooking class & gourmet dinner with music.
Reserve a traditional Cenone (multi-course feast).
Ring in 2026 at the free concert at the Circus Maximus.
Visit Campo de’ Fiori, Trevi Fountain, and Pantheon at night.
Watch the New Year’s Parade through Rome on New Year’s Day.

Where to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Rome:

🎁 Best Christmas Markets in Italy

Italy’s festive magic doesn’t stop in Rome. These markets are easily reachable and perfect for travellers planning to travel to Rome and Florence or beyond.

Bolzano (Piazza Walther): Italy’s biggest market with Alpine charm.
Verona (Piazza dei Signori): Romantic wooden huts and glowing lights.
Florence (Piazza Santa Croce): German-style market in Piazza Santa Croce.
Trento (Piazza Fiera & Piazza Cesare Battisti): Alpine town glowing with tradition.
Milan (Duomo Market & Oh Bej! Oh Bej!): Fashion capital glowing with Christmas.
Merano (Passirio River): Historic spa town dazzles with Alpine lights.
Bressanone (Cathedral Square): Baroque town sparkling with holiday lights.
Aosta (Marché Vert Noël): Mountain town wrapped in festive cheer.
Naples (Via San Gregorio Armeno): Vibrant city rich in Christmas traditions.
Christmas Market on Como Lake: Scenic lakeside town alive with holiday magic.
Arezzo & Montepulciano Christmas Markets: Tuscan Christmas celebrations.

🎶 Experience Opera in Rome

Listening to opera in Rome at Christmas immerses you in the city’s rich artistic heritage, blending festive performances with historic settings for an unforgettable holiday experience. Get a Rome Opera Pass for priority access to an opera of your choice.

⛪ Free Things to Do in Rome

Rome is basically one giant open-air museum. With so many free attractions in Rome, from elegant gardens to centuries-old churches bursting with remarkable art, you can soak up history and culture without spending a dime.

💁🏻‍♀️ How to see free attractions in Rome:

EU citizens under 17 get free entry to many attractions in Rome.
While entry to most churches and basilicas in Rome is free, some areas require tickets.
Get free access to major museums and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of the month (Domenica al Museo).
The Vatican Museums are free on the last Sunday of every month.

➡️ Heads Up: On 13-14 December 2025, 84 cultural sites across Lazio – including Villa Falconieri, Palazzo Chigi, Villa d’Este, Forte Sangallo, and Palazzo Barberini – will offer free entry through the Dimore Storiche initiative.

Here are some free things to do in Rome, Italy:

Trevi Fountain: Starting 7 January 2026, tourists pay a €2 fee to see it up close.
Rinascente Roma Tritone: Miniature Christmas wonderland on the lower floors.
St. Peter’s Basilica: The world’s most iconic church and its breathtaking interior.
Galleria Sciarra: Hidden gem close to the Trevi Fountain.
Piazza Navona: Elegant Baroque square filled with fountains and artists.
Spanish Steps: The historic staircase featured in Roman Holiday.
Temple of Hadrian: A 2,000-year-old Roman temple.
Villa Borghese Gardens: A beautiful central park, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Trastevere Streets: Atmospheric cobblestone lanes full of charm and character.
Roseto Comunale: Hilltop garden with hundreds of colorful rose varieties.
Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci): Hilltop garden with fragrant orange trees.
Appian Way (Via Appia Antica): One of Rome’s oldest roads surrounded by ancient ruins.
Non-Catholic Cemetery: A serene historic cemetery where poets like Keats rest.
Museo delle Mura: A free museum housed within Rome’s ancient defensive walls.
Nasoni Water Fountains: Charming public fountains with fresh drinking water.
Casanatense Library: 17th-century Baroque reading hall with rare manuscripts.
Villa Giustiniani Massimo: A serene historic villa with elegant gardens.
Sant’Agnese in Agone: Baroque architecture and intricate frescoes.
Church of Gesù & St Ignatius: Jesuit church featuring trompe l’oeil optical illusion.
Chiesa di San Pietro in Montorio: Features works from Bernini, Bramante, and Vasari.
Chiesa di Santa Maria Immacolata: Elegant architecture and serene atmosphere.
Basilica di Sant’Andrea della Valle: Baroque church with grand dome and frescoes.
Basilica of Santo Stefano Rotondo al Celio: Circular 5th-century basilica with frescoes.
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore: Shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri: Michelangelo-designed masterpiece.

🏛️ Top Tourist Attractions in Rome

Discover the top attractions in Rome with guided sightseeing tours that bring the city’s history, legends, and holiday charm vividly to life.

🚌 Top Experiences & Tours in Rome

Rome Tourist Card: On a budget? See the Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, and more attractions in Rome with one easy pass.
Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tours: See top tourist attractions in Rome on your own schedule with a hop-on hop-off tour.
Rome’s 12 Best Highlights: Skip the guesswork with an expertly curated itinerary that no first-time visitor could match.
See Rome by Night: Skip the crowds on a private golf cart tour that reveals the city’s most iconic landmarks at their serene, illuminated best.
Rome Underground Tour: Immerse yourself in Roman history on this tour of Rome’s underground with air-conditioned transportation.
Christianity in Ancient Rome: Explore historic sites related to the first Christians in Ancient Rome on a private tour.
Roma World – The Ancient Rome Theme Park: Live a day as a Roman legionary: train, eat, and explore like an ancient warrior with hands-on activities in the Italian countryside.

🏺 Archaeological Sites in Rome

Trevi Fountain: While free for Romans, tourists will pay a €2 fee to see it up close from 7 Jan 2026.
Rome’s Colosseum: Explore the iconic arena where gladiators fought, and chariot races thrilled ancient Rome.
Rome’s Pantheon: Once a Roman temple, a church since the 7th century, renowned for its perfectly proportioned, unreinforced 2nd-century dome.
Roman Forum: Explore ancient ruins, historic temples, and the former Senate House near the Colosseum.
Stadium of Domitian: An impressive overview of underground ancient ruins, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Vicus Caprarius – Trevi District Underground: Discover ancient subterranean ruins and aqueducts while exploring the remarkable engineering beneath the city.
Catacombs of Saint Callixtus: Famed for the Crypt of the Popes, which once housed papal tombs from the 2nd to 4th centuries.
Terme di Caracalla: One of ancient Rome’s grandest bath complexes, now an impressive archaeological site.
Trajan’s Market: Ancient Rome’s multi-level commercial complex, showcasing the city’s architectural and economic ingenuity.
Circus Maximus: Ancient Rome’s largest chariot-racing stadium, now an open-air historic site featuring state-of-the-art virtual reality and interactive display technology.
Case Romane del Celio: An underground site beneath the Basilica Santi Giovanni e Paolo, featuring 20 rooms dating from the 2nd to 4th centuries AD.
Castel Sant Angelo: Skip the line to admire beautiful frescoes by Raphael and enjoy panoramic views of Rome.

🖼️ Roman Museums & Art

Capitoline Museums: Opened in 1734, this monumental complex spans four historic palazzos and features architecture envisioned by Michelangelo.
Cartier and Myths Exhibition, Capitoline Museums (until 15 March 2026): Elegant exhibition pairing Cartier’s iconic jewels with classical mythology.
Ara Pacis Museum: Home to Emperor Augustus’s iconic Altar of Peace, encased in a striking travertine-and-glass structure designed by Richard Meier.
Roman Ships Museum: View the hulls of ancient Roman ships excavated from the Harbour of Claudius, carefully restored and displayed on-site since 1979.
Mostra di Leonardo: A captivating exhibition that immerses you in the brilliance and innovation of Leonardo da Vinci and the Renaissance era.
Museo Hendrik Christian Andersen: A hidden gem showing his utopian sculptures and grand visions in his former studio.
Caravaggio & Baroque Masterpieces: Learn about Caravaggio’s life and work with an art historian at the Baroque painter’s former residence.
Borghese Gallery: Skip the line to admire captivating works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Galleria Colonna: One of Rome’s most magnificent private palaces, showcasing opulent Baroque halls, grand staircases, art, and history.
Galleria Corsini: Built in 1511 by Cardinal Raffaele Riario and acquired by the Corsini family in 1736, this Roman gallery near Trastevere showcases Italian masters.
Palazzo Braschi: Late-18th-century neoclassical palace housing the Museum of Rome, featuring over 100,000 art and craft works. Fully wheelchair accessible.
Palazzo Merulana: Home to a collection of 20th-century Italian art from the Cerasi Foundation.
Villa Giulia (National Etruscan Museum): A Renaissance villa housing Italy’s premier Etruscan collection, showcasing masterpieces like the iconic Sarcophagus of the Spouses.
Doria Pamphilj Gallery: Private Roman palace showcasing an exceptional art collection, and the Bagno di Diana, a 19th-century bathroom with a shell-shaped bath and frescoes.

🏰 Roman Palaces & Villas

Domus Aurea: A vast landscaped palace built by Emperor Nero after the fire of 64 AD, now open for guided weekend tours.
Palazzo Barberini: A late-Baroque masterpiece built for the Corsini family in the 18th century, now home to an extraordinary collection of art.
Palazzo Altemps: Refined Renaissance palace renowned for its exceptional collection of classical sculptures.
Palazzo Chigi: An imposing structure built in 1562 – 1580, it’s the official residence of the Prime Minister of Italy.
Palazzo Valentini: Built in 1585, it has housed Rome’s provincial administration since 1873, and features recently uncovered ancient Roman remains.
Palazzo Venezia: Former papal palace and political hub, now a museum showcasing 800 years of applied arts, from ceramics to paintings and sculptures.
Palazzo Silvestri-Rivaldi: 16th-century Renaissance palace reopening after 40+ years to small groups from 8 January 2026. Free garden access from 15 Dec – 8 Jan.
Villa Farnesina: Renaissance masterpiece famous for its exquisite Raphael frescoes and elegant riverside setting.
Villa Torlonia: A neoclassical estate once home to the Torlonia family and Mussolini, celebrated for its whimsical architecture and serene gardens.
Villa Medici: Renaissance villa on the Pincio Hill with elegant gardens, sweeping city views, and home to the French Academy in Rome.

Rome Christmas Tours

🚆 Best Day Trips from Rome

December is the perfect time to explore places near Rome decorated with lights and overflowing with winter charm. These day trips add variety to the things to do in your ‘Rome in 3 days’ itinerary.

Papal Palace & Gardens of Castel Gandolfo: A papal retreat, the Pontifical Villas in Castel Gandolfo, 25 km south of Rome.
Santa Severa Castle: A striking landmark on the Tyrrhenian coast north of Rome, easily reached by train or car, and perfect for a beachside day trip.
Pompeii, Amalfi Coast & Positano: Hassle-free full-day transportation to Pompeii and Positano from Rome.
Tuscany & Montepulciano: Visit Montepulciano, Pienza, and Montalcino Castle, with wine and olive oil tasting.
Florence & Pisa: Check off multiple landmarks, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the statue of David.
Tivoli Day Trip: Visit the historic vacation homes of the Roman elite – Tivoli’s UNESCO-listed sites, Hadrian’s Villa, and Villa d’Este.
Assisi & Orvieto: Explore Assisi and Orvieto with tickets to the Basilica of San Francesco and Orvieto Cathedral.

🍝 Food Experiences & Restaurants in Rome

Rome knows how to celebrate with its stomach. Wondering what to eat in Rome, Italy, during the festive season? From pasta alla gricia and crisp puntarelle salad to panettone, pandoro, and a cup of vin brulé, it serves the perfect holiday flavors.

Food Tours in Rome:

Cooking Classes in Rome:

Best Restaurants in Rome:

Celebrate the season in style with some of the best restaurants for Christmas in Rome, offering festive menus, warm ambience, and unforgettable holiday dining – one of the tastiest and fun things to do in Rome, Italy.

La Pergola (Rome Cavalieri, Waldorf Astoria): 3-Michelin-star location, top-tier luxury.
Ristorante Aroma (Via Labicana): Michelin-starred, roof-garden, Colosseum views.
Lumen Restaurant (St Regis): Elegant, refined dining experience.
Imàgo (Hassler Hotel Roma): Superb views, festive décor, refined menu.
Hassler Bar (Hotel Hassler Roma): Timeless, classic Roman sophistication.
Bvlgari Cafe (Bvlgari Hotel Roma): Chic, polished, luxurious Italian indulgence.
Bar la Minerva (Orient Express La Minerva Hotel): Elegant, serene, art-filled cocktail escape.
Bar della Musa (Palazzo Talìa): Glamorous, contemporary Roman cocktails.
Bar Mascagni (Grand Hotel Plaza): Opulent, vintage Italian elegance.
Osteria la Gensola (Piazza della Gensola): Great for Christmas Eve seafood.
Osteria Gnocco (Via della Scrofa): Refined takes on Roman classics.
Emme Ristorante (Via Margutta): Stylish ambiance without ultra-luxury formality.
Sapori D’Ischia (Via Marche): Wonderful holiday menus for Christmas.
Art Cibò Ristorante Dai Pupi (Via Leccosa): Memorable Christmas dinner atmosphere.
Osteria di Ponte (Via Di Panico): Fresh pasta in a rustic, family-style setting.
L’Antica Pizzeria Trevi (Fontana di Trevi): Neapolitan favorites steps from Trevi.
Da Enzo al 29 (Trastevere): Authentic Roman dishes in Trastevere.
Luciano Cucina Italiana (Campo de’ Fiori): Creative Italian cuisine in Campo.
Alla Rampa (Piazza di Spagna): Classic Roman dining near Spagna.
Etablino – Caffè Due Fontane (Piazza Perin del Vaga): Elegant brunch café Perin Vaga.
Mordi Sandwichhouse (Borgo Pio): Exquisite paninis near the Vatican.
Pane e Salame (Via Santa Maria in Via): Cheese boards and cold cuts.
Felice a Testaccio (Testaccio): Iconic Testaccio cacio e pepe.
Ruver Teglia Frazionata (Viale Aventino): Next-gen pizza al taglio.
Sofia Pizza Napoletana (Corso del Rinascimento): Napoli-style pizza in the heart of Rome
Pizzarium Bonci (Via della Meloria): Creative pizza combinations for takeaway.
Supplì (Trastevere): Best suppli and street food, wallet-friendly.
Da Corrado (Trastevere): Family-run, changing menu, huge portions, authentic vibe.
Il Marchese (Via di Ripetta): 600+ types of amari (liqueurs).
Pompi (V. della Croce): Dessert bar with the best tiramisù.
Caffè Tazza d’Oro (Via Appia Nuova): Iconic coffee shop near the Pantheon.
La Gelateria Frigidarium (Via del Governo Vecchio): Creamy gelato in bold flavors.
Fatamorgana (Trastevere): 100% gluten-free artisanal gelato.

Expert tips:

Dine away from monuments for better food.
Eat seasonal foods like roasted chestnuts, carciofi, and puntarelle.

🏨 Where to Stay in Rome at Christmas Time

Whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury worthy of a classic film, Rome has accommodations that match every travel style. Staying central is key to enjoying the top things to do in Rome, Italy, with ease.

Here are some top-rated hotels near major attractions in Rome:

Budget Stays / Hostels:

The Beehive: Eco-friendly, cozy, community-focused.
YellowSquare Rome: Social, fun, and great for solo travellers.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Albergo del Senato: Overlooks the Pantheon; magical during the holidays.
Hotel Artemide: A guest favourite with spa, rooftop, and warm hospitality.

Luxury Hotels:

Hôtel de Russie: Elegant Christmas décor and lush gardens.
The St. Regis Rome: Grand, opulent, and famous for extravagant holiday displays.
Palazzo Shedir: Book the Borghese Suite of this sophisticated Roman residence.

🚶‍♂️ How to Get Around Rome

Rome is built over so much history that it’s nearly impossible to dig anywhere without uncovering ancient Roman ruins. The new metro station near the Colosseum is a perfect example, doubling as a museum filled with artifacts revealed during construction.

Explore Rome effortlessly with this guide to walking, public transport, taxis, and other ways to get around the Eternal City.

🛫 Airport Transfers: Book airport transfers in Rome with a money-back guarantee.
🚉 Leonardo Express: Travel with ease from Fiumicino Airport to the center of Rome.
🚍 Big Bus Tours: Hop-on hop-off access to the top sights with 24, 48, or 72-hour tickets.
🎄Free Christmas shuttle buses: Explore key festive spots and shopping streets.
🚇 Metro: The fastest way to cross the city, with only three lines (A, B, C). Avoid rush hours.
🚌 Bus & Tram: Covers areas the metro doesn’t reach. Buy tickets before boarding.
🚕 Taxi / Ride-Sharing: Official white cabs are metered. Free Now and Uber operate.
🚶‍♀️ Walking: Central attractions are walkable. Comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.
🚲 Bike Rental: Great for short trips, parks, or riverfront areas. Avoid busy streets.
🛬 Airport Lounge: Get 3-hour access to Plaza Premium Lounge at Fiumicino Airport.
🛅 Luggage Storage: Keep your bags safe and secure while you explore the city freely.
🎟️ Tickets: BIT tickets (~€1.50) give 100-minute access to the metro, bus, and tram. Buy them at ATAC stations or use a contactless card. Daily/weekly unlimited passes available.

➡️ Online train tickets on the Trenitalia app or Trainline don’t require validation. Paper tickets do (or risk a €50 fine).

➡️ Keep these strike dates for 2025 in mind, as they can affect your mobility:

Rome public transport strike (9 Dec 2025 )
Nationwide general strike (12 Dec 2025)
Nationwide airport & airline strikes (17 Dec 2025)

If you’re planning to travel to Italy in 2026, read these Italy travel etiquette tips to avoid cultural faux pas and navigate transport rules without drama and fines.

🛍️ Where to Shop in Rome

Learn where to shop in Rome, Italy, whether you’re looking for cheap deals, affordable fashion, or luxury brands.

🛣️ Streets (Clothes, Luxury & Affordable)

Via del Corso: Shop for clothes – easy, central, and packed with international brands.
Via Dei Condotti: The go-to for luxury brands, featuring Gucci, Prada, and Bulgari.
Via Cola di Rienzo: Affordable buys, mixing popular brands with local stores.
Via Nazionale: Great for cheap buys with chain stores and budget fashion.
Via Vittorio Veneto: An elegant street for upscale shopping and classic Roman style.
Via Margutta: Artistic and unique, known for galleries and boutique finds.
Via dei Coronari: Perfect for vintage lovers and antiques.

🧺 Markets (Cheap & Local Finds)

Porta Portese Market: Cheap shopping – huge Sunday flea market with bargains.
Campo de’ Fiori Market: Daily market for food, gifts, and local products.

🏬 Malls & Department Stores

Galleria Alberto Sordi: Historic arcade with stylish mid-range and designer shops.
Rinascente Roma Tritone: Upscale store for fashion, beauty, and gourmet food.

💬 Popular Tip: Combine Via del Corso + Porta Portese for the best mix of value and variety.

🎁 Travel Tips for Christmas in Rome

Be aware of the 8th Dec celebrations for crowd planning
Reserve Vatican events weeks (or months) early.
Understand Vatican entry options for easy planning.
Book Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners ASAP.
Restaurants reopen around 7 pm; locals eat after 8 pm.
Book skip-the-line tickets online for major attractions.
Pre-book Christmas & New Year’s Day plans (limited transport and closures).
New Year crowds at Circus Maximus, Colosseum, Piazza Navona & Trastevere.
Crowds in Piazza Navona for 6 Jan (Epiphany) Befana celebrations.
Enjoy Christmas lights and markets after dark.
Confirm holiday opening hours to avoid surprises.
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and legs) in religious sites.
Pack warm layers. Rome is colder than you expect in December.
Expect occasional rain and keep a scarf and umbrella handy.
Keep valuables close at major tourist attractions in Rome.
Taxis are hard to flag down – use Uber at peak times.
Read these Do’s & Don’ts in Rome for more tips.

🎬 Christmas in Rome Filming Locations

Hallmark fans and cinephiles, rejoice. Christmas in Rome filmed across the city’s most picturesque spots – ideal for travellers seeking cinematic walks.

Key Filming Spots:

Spanish Steps (Piazza di Spagna): Sparkling at night, and iconic in Roman Holiday.
Via dei Condotti: Luxury boutiques strung with lights.
Castel Sant’Angelo: Romantic nighttime views across the Tiber.
Piazza Navona: Featured prominently in the movie, especially during festive scenes.

Rome at Christmas time is magical, bright, and full of soul. Whether you come for faith, food, festive markets, or film locations, it’s a Christmas vacation you’ll never forget.

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Priya Florence Shah

Priya Florence Shah, author, blogger, and travel writer, finds joy in peaceful escapes and uncovering the stories behind everything — from food and wildlife to art, history, and culture — wherever she travels.

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Best Things To Do in Rome at Christmas Time (2025)