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A Guide to Visiting Rome in December | Attractions, Weather, Museums & More
Contents
Rome is the capital city of Italy and the center of the Metropolitan City of Rome. It is known as one of the most well-planned and developed cities of the ancient world and boasts a history spanning 28 centuries. Some of its yesteryear architectural marvels like the Roman Colosseum, Palazzo Barberini, and the Roman Pantheon still mesmerize the world. St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums in Vatican City are some of the other important and most-visited historical landmarks in Rome. Now, let us help you plan your trip to Rome in December.
Is December a Good Time to Visit Rome?
December is a great time to visit Rome, as it is the low season with fewer tourist crowds and greater discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings. Moreover, it is one of the few European cities where you get to experience the festive season frost-free.
Why You Should Visit Rome in December?
- Rome is one of the few European cities where you can enjoy a snow-free winter in December.
- December is part of the low season in Rome, meaning lesser waiting times and fewer crowds at tourist hotspots.
- Cheaper flight tickets and hotel tariffs is also an advantage of visiting Rome in December.
- Rome is one of the best cities in Europe to witness Christmas and St. Stephen’s Day celebrations.
- Christmas shopping and festive sales begin in Rome in December.
What to Look Out For in Rome in December?
- Carry an umbrella as Rome gets a few showers in December.
- Cover yourself well as December is chilly and windy in Rome.
- December records the shortest days of the year in Rome, lasting for only around nine hours long. So plan your itinerary accordingly.
- Some museums and attractions have fixed times for visitor tours. Make sure you book your convenient timeslot well in advance to ensure all goes as per plan.
- The waters around Rome may be too cold for a swim. So if you are looking for an Italian beach holiday, then December probably isn’t the best time.
Overview of Weather in Rome in December
December is the first month of winter in Rome where the temperature falls to 3℃ on some days. Evenings feel more chilly due to the strong winds. The maximum temperature during the month is 14℃. 8 days of light rains are expected throughout this month. December records the shortest days in Rome with only 9.2 hours of daylight, and the least amount of sunshine at about 3.6 hours a day.
- Average Temperature: High - 12.6 ℃ Low - 4.2 ℃
- Average Rainfall: 81 mm
- Average Wind Speeds: 8.1 miles per hour
- Average Daylight Hours: 9.2
Best Things to do in Rome in December
1. Roman Colosseum
Historic Landmark | Tourist Hotspot
The Colosseum represents the history of Rome and speaks of its resilience like no other monument, making it the most visited landmark in the city. Home to the ancient gladiator fights, this iconic amphitheater stands as an architectural marvel with the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill. Visit the world’s largest amphitheater with fewer crowds in December.
December Timings: Daily: 10:30 AM - 7:15 PM | Last entry at 6:15 PM Closed: 25th Dec
from €21
2. St. Peter's Basilica
Religious Landmark | National Monument
St. Peter's Basilica is Italy’s largest basilica and the pride of Vatican City. Here you can climb the mesmerizing dome of Michaelangelo and enjoy great views of Rome. You can also admire the Papal Sarcophagi, the artistic brilliance of Bernini, and other artworks like Michaelangelo’s Pieta inside the Basilica. December is one of the best times to leisurely explore the Basilica.
December Timings: Daily: 7 AM - 6:30 PM
from €27
3. Vatican Museum
Art Museum | Tourist Hotspot
The Vatican Museums, founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century is home to one of the world's finest art collections. Here you will find Renaissance sculptures at the Pio Clementino Museum, paintings by renowned artists at the Pinacoteca, and historic artifacts across the 54 illustrious Galleries. The Vatican Museums can be explored amidst fewer crowds in December.
December Timings: Mon - Sat: 9 AM - 6 PM | Last entry at 4 PM Closed: 25th & 26th Dec
from €27.50
4. Sistine Chapel
Historical Landmark | Religious Landmark
Initially known as the Cappella Magna, meaning ‘Great Chapel’, The Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the Pope and the venue for all important papal ceremonies. Situated in the Apostolic Palace, the Chapel is home to ‘The Last Judgment’ by Michelangelo and illustrious frescos by Renaissance painters like Botticelli, Perugino, Pinturicchio, Ghirlandaio, and Rosselli, that depict the lives of Jesus and Moses.
December Timings: Mon - Sat: 9 AM - 6 PM | Last entry at 4 PM Closed: 8th & 25th Dec
from €27.50
5. Palazzo Barberini
Art Museum | City Attraction
Palazzo Barberini is a Baroque-style palace that was built in the 17th century. With ceiling and wall frescoes designed by Pietro da Cortona, staircases by Bernini and Borromini, and artworks like Raphael's ‘La Fornarina’, Caravaggio's ‘Judith Beheading Holofernes’, and Filippo Lippi’s ‘The Annunciation’ on display, this architectural marvel is a must-see attraction in Rome, especially during the less crowded December.
December Timings: Tue - Sun: 10 AM - 6 PM | Last entry at 5 PM Closed: 25th Dec
6. Roman Catacombs
Historic Landmark | Burial Ground
The Catacombs of Rome are underground burial places with historic significance as it was prohibited to bury dead bodies within city limits in Ancient Rome. Out of the 60-plus catacombs in the city, only five are open to the public. Join a tour guide while visiting in December to hear interesting stories and facts about the history and usage of this place.
December Timings: Thu - Tue: 9 AM - 12 PM | 2:00 PM to 5 PM Closed: 25th Dec
7. Castel Sant Angelo
Historical Monument | City Attraction
Castel Sant Angelo, also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, is an ancient fortress close to Vatican city. It was built in 139 AD and converted into a museum in 1901, that now displays some of the finest examples of Roman architecture, art, sculptures, and weaponry giving its visitors an in-depth understanding of Roman history. Take your own time exploring the Mausoleum in December.
December Timings: Mon - Sun: 9 AM - 7:30 PM Closed: 25th Dec
from €25
8. Walk Around Trastevere Neighborhood
City Streets | Leisure
Trastevere is an authentic Roman neighborhood across the river Tiber, that has preserved its suburban charm through the years. As you walk down its streets in December, you will experience the rich history and culture of the place and also get to taste some mouth-watering delicacies at the street-side food stalls.
9. Take a Day Trip to Tuscany
Leisure | Day Trip
On this full-day tour from Rome, embark on a sun-drenched expedition to the breathtaking region of Tuscany. Board comfortable air-conditioned coaches that will transport you to and from Tuscany, leaving you with the sole obligation of having a good time. Enjoy this authentic tour with a small group and an expert English-speaking tour guide. As you travel through Tuscany, gain knowledge about its history, architecture, and ancient faith while taking in the view and sounds.
10. Roman Pantheon
Historic Landmark | Tourist Hotspot
The Pantheon is a 2000-year-old Roman temple that was converted into a cathedral in 609 AD. The Corinthian columns in granite, the design of the oculus, and the coffered concrete dome - which to this day stands as the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome - make it one of Rome's best-preserved heritage landmarks and one of the most studied architectural marvels of the ancient world.
December Timings: Daily: 9 AM - 7 PM | Last entry at 6:30 PM Closed: 25th Dec
from €5
11. Borghese Gallery
Art Gallery | City Attraction
The Borghese Gallery is home to Rome’s finest art collection, started by Cardinal Scipione Borghese, the most knowledgeable art collector of his time. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, ancient mosaics, and bas-reliefs from the 15th to the 19th centuries, featuring the works of Raphael, Caravaggio, Bernini, and others. Explore this well-curated art collection at your own pace when visiting in December.
December Timings: Tue - Sun: 9 AM - 7 PM | Last entry at 5 PM Closed: 25th Dec
from €21
12. Walk Around Orto Botanico
Botanical Garden | Leisure Walk
What was once the private garden of Palazzo Corsini is now the 12-hectare Botanical Gardens of Rome. The Orto Botanico is a beautiful place to walk around and explore the 8000 species of plants from around the world, including some of Europe's most vulnerable ones. Make sure you are fully covered in thick clothes when taking a stroll in the Garden in December.
December Timings: Daily: 9 AM - 6:30 PM
0
Festivals in Rome in December
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Venue: All around Rome
Date: 8th of December 2023
Feast of the Immaculate Conception or Immaculate Conception Day is celebrated all over Italy and declared a national holiday. In Rome, this day is celebrated as Festa dell'Immacolata, which is usually marked by the Pope’s pilgrimage to Piazza Mignanelli; which was unfortunately canceled during the pandemic years. The other iconic event taking place on this day is the Mayor’s lighting of the city’s first public Christmas Tree of the season. This also marks the beginning of the Christmas shopping season in Rome with the opening up of most Christmas markets in the city.
Know more
Urbi et Orbi
Venue: Saint Peter’s Basilica, Rome
Date: 25th of December 2023
The term Urbi et Orbi meaning ‘for the city and for the world, is the name given to the Pope’s Christmas address to the public and believers across the world. Thousands of devotees gather around, below the Pope’s balcony at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Christmas Day to receive the Pope’s blessings. This is the only other day apart from Easter when the Pope directly addresses a gathering at the Basilica.
Know more
3. Il Giorno di Santa Stefano (St. Stephen’s Day)
Venue: All around Rome
Date: 26th of December 2023
The day after Christmas is celebrated in Italy as Il Giorno di Santa Stefano or St. Stephen’s Day. This national holiday commemorates the saint, who is regarded as the first martyr for Christianity. On this day, the city is adorned with nativity displays and is bustling with locals who tend to spend Christmas Day at home with their families. Santo Stefano Rotondo and other churches in Rome celebrate the day by observing a feast for St. Stephen.
Know moreEvents in Rome in December
Bryan Adams Live Concert
Venue: Palazzo Dello Sport. Rome
Date: 6th of December 2022
World-famous Canadian singer, musician, and songwriter, Bryan Adams, will be performing in Rome this December, as part of his ‘So Happy It Hurts’ Europe Tour. He will be performing tracks from his newest album as well as some of his older hits. Make sure to get your tickets before they sell out.
Know more
A Christmas Carol - The Musical
Venue: Auditorium Conciliazione, Rome
Date: 10th & 11th of December 2022
The musical production of Charles Dickens's classic novel ‘A Christmas Carol' is coming to Rome this December. Earlier adapted into TV shows, movies, and theatre plays, this renowned work of literature is hitting the stage this time with traditional Christmas Carols, dance performances, new plot twists, and surprises. This portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge’s story is sure to captivate the audience and leave them with a lasting memory.
Know more
Simply Red Live Concert
Venue: Palazzo Dello Sport. Rome
Date: 14th of December 2022
The Manchester-based British soul and pop band, Simply Red, will be performing in Rome this December, as part of their Simply Red Blue Eyed Soul Tour. The concert is in promotion of the band’s 12th studio album, ‘Blue Eyed Soul’ which came out in 2019, and will feature all of its songs as well as some older hits.
Know moreKnow Before You Visit Rome in December
Travel Essentials
What to Wear
What to Pack
Transport
Stay
Food
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Rome which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+02:00).
Currency: Euros - EUR - €
Country Code: +39
Emergency Numbers: Integrated Emergency System - 112, Ambulance - 118, Fire brigade - 115, Police - 113
Travel Guide
What to Wear in Rome in December
- It is recommended to cover yourself in heavy woolen clothing to face the winter.
- Wear a poncho or a raincoat along with a pair of waterproof boots when stepping out on rainy days.
- Thick jackets, coats, and layers of knitwear can keep you comfortable amidst the strong winds on chilly nights.
- Additionally, you may wear a pair of gloves or a scarf while walking out in the winds.
- Comfortable walking shoes and thick socks are a must during winters in Rome.
What to Pack in Rome in December
- Do carry an umbrella, a poncho or a raincoat, and a pair of rain boots, as Rome is slightly rainy in December.
- A pair of comfortable walking shoes are required to go around Rome.
- Heavy woolen clothes, a pair of gloves, and a few pairs of thick socks to stay comfortable in the cold.
- Scarves, coats, and thick jackets for the cold and windy days.
- Rooms in Rome come with C, L, and F type sockets which require round tip 2-pin plugs. So do pack a 3-pin to 2-pin adaptor when you travel, if required.
Getting Around Rome in December
By Metro: The metro network in Rome has very limited connectivity. Metros run along two main lines going across the city connecting most of the tourist attractions around the Vatican city. They are operational from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. every day, and until 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
By Bus: Rome has a sprawling bus network that connects all train stations, metro stations, and even the interior corners of Rome. Buses run daily from 5:30 a.m. to midnight with some night buses that run all through the night across the main lines. The main bus terminal in the city center is in front of Stazione Termini, which is the metro intersection station.
By Tram: The tram network in Rome is comparatively smaller than the bus network. Running along seven lines, they can take you to most tourist attractions in the city, but generally take a lot more time than buses and trains.
Where to Stay in Rome in December
Rome offers tourists a lot of different accommodation options. You can choose from bed and breakfast options, dormitories, hostels, guest houses, rented apartments, hotels, and resorts, based on your budget and convenience. Here are some of our picks for December.
Budget: Hotel Villa San Lorenzo Maria, Ecce Roma Suites, Andenis Luxury House
Mid-Range: DoubleTree By Hilton Rome Monti, Mercure Roma Centro Colosseo , Loly Boutique Hotel Roma
Luxury: The St. Regis Rome, Hotel Eden - Dorchester Collection, Portrait Roma - Lungarno Collection
What to Eat in Rome in December
Italian cuisine features fresh and seasonal ingredients with minimal seasoning, giving it a simple homemade charm. Here are some of the favorite dishes of the season you must try while in Rome in December.
Tagliolini al Tartufo Nero: This popular dish is a simple preparation of homemade Tagliolini pasta with black truffle mushrooms, cooked in olive oil, flavored with garlic, and seasoned with sea salt and black pepper.
Pangiallo Romano: A seasonal delicacy in Rome in December is the special Christmas cake Pangiallo Romano. This traditional festive dish is prepared by baking cake dough that is stuffed with almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, raisins, and pistachios, and then glazing it with saffron once baked.
Suppli: Suppli is a snack of a crumbled risotto ball filled with tomato ragu. This famous Roman street food can be found at almost all food carts and stalls across Trastevere and is a must-try while walking around the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Rome in December
Is December a good time to visit Rome?
December is a great time to visit Rome, as it is the low season with fewer tourist crowds and greater discounts on flight tickets and hotel bookings. Moreover, it is one of the few European cities where you get to experience the festive season frost-free.
What are the best things to do in Rome in December?
Some of the best things to do in Rome in December include visiting the Roman Colosseum, the Roman Pantheon, and the Roman Catacombs, admiring the art at St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, and Palazzo Barberini, and attending the Urbi et Orbi public address on Christmas Day.
Is Rome cold in December?
December is the first month of winter in Rome with the average temperatures ranging from 4.2 ℃ to 12.6 ℃. The temperature even drops as low as 3 ℃ on some days. The strong winds make the evenings feel even more chilly.
How hot is Rome in December?
It is cold in Rome in December as it is the first month of winter. The average maximum temperature in Rome in December goes up to 12.6 ℃.
Can you swim in Rome in December?
The average sea temperature in Rome in December is 16 ℃, which makes it too cold for most people to swim. However, it may be comfortable for those who wish to do cold swimming in a wetsuit.
Is it sunny in Rome in December?
Rome is partially cloudy in December. The shortest days in Rome are recorded in this month with only 9.2 hours of daylight, and the least amount of sunshine at about 3.6 hours a day.
What clothes to wear in Rome in December?
Heavy woolen clothing is recommended to be worn in Rome in December. Gloves, scarves, thick jackets, and thick socks are needed to keep you warm and comfortable. It is advised to carry water-repelling clothes like raincoats or ponchos for the few rainy days as well.
Is it rainy in Rome in December?
You can expect slight rains for about 8 days in December in Rome, adding up to an average rainfall of 81 mm.
Is Rome expensive to visit?
Rome is one of the few cities in Europe you can visit on any budget. December especially is part of the low season in Rome, which means you can get great bargains on airfare and hotel tariffs if you book in advance. Public transport is also comparatively much cheaper than in other European countries.
How safe is Rome?
Rome is one of the safest European cities to travel to. In case of any emergency, you may call 112 and the Integrated Emergency System will direct you to the required department. Alternatively, you could dial 118 for an Ambulance, 15 for the Fire brigade, or 113 to reach the Police.
What can I see in Rome in December?
Rome, although chilly in December, offers tourists a lot of opportunities to truly witness the city’s opulent history. With fewer crowds in December, you can comfortably visit the Roman Colosseum, Palazzo Barberini, and the Roman Pantheon. You can also visit St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums in Vatican City, when in Rome in December.
What is the average temperature in Rome in December?
The average temperature in Rome in December ranges from 4.2 ℃ to 12.6 ℃.
What are the main festivals in Rome in December?
The Feast of Immaculate Conception on the 8th of December marks the beginning of Christmas festivities in Rome. Christmas Day, St. Stephens Day, and New Year’s Eve are also celebrated in Rome in December.