Visit Rome in Winter and beat the crowds | 25 things to do in winter in Rome
Rome in winter is amazing, and we create the perfect list of activities you can do. From indoor things to do, to countryside day trips, our Rome in winter guide is perfect to explore Italy on a budget and without crowds. A flight to Italy out of season might work out cheaper than other European places.
Between December to mid-March, there is an excellent opportunity to explore Rome in wintertime.
I have been living in Rome for over three years, and know typical touristy sites, but more than that where locals go and so off the beaten path locations. This guide to winter in Rome offers the best insights, such as visiting ancient landmarks without the crowds, savouring local cuisine, and indulging in festive markets. Dive into Rome’s winter magic, experiencing enchanting moments against a backdrop of rich history and seasonal celebrations.
Is it worth going to Rome in winter?
Yes, visiting Rome in winter is absolutely worth it! The cooler weather means smaller crowds at major sights like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums. Flights and hotels are cheaper too. While temperatures hover around 10°C during the day, the city still feels lively. You’ll need to bundle up as you explore the cobblestone streets. The off-season atmosphere can be magical.
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Weather and Temperature in Rome in winter
Weather and Temperature in Rome in December
December brings cold but enjoyable weather to Rome, with average highs of 13°C (55°F) and lows dipping to 4°C (39°F) at night. Days are short, with just 9 hours of daylight. Pack warm layers and an umbrella, as rainfall averages 12 wet days in December.
Rome Weather in January
The coldest month of the year, January in Rome sees average temperatures plummet to 8°C (46°F) during the day and 2°C (36°F) at night. Days remain short, with only 10 hours of daylight. Abundant rainfall brings an average of 12 rainy days, so come prepared with rain gear.
Brisk winds add an extra chill. But sunny winter days provide a comfortable climate to wander Rome’s landmarks without crowds.
Weather in Rome in February
In February, Rome begins warming up from winter’s chill. Average highs climb to 12°C (54°F) in the afternoon, with lows around 4°C (39°F). The 11 hours of daily sunshine create pleasant days to explore. Plan for rain, as February averages 10 rainy days.
And occasional cold fronts can bring frosty nights. So pack plenty of layers to stay comfortable. But overall, February offers agreeable weather to experience Rome.
Does it snow in Rome?
I have personally witness Rome in white just once, and it didn’t last long. You have got much chances to find snow in Rome visiting the city in January or February.
Snow in Rome is rare, but it does happen occasionally. Most years see a dusting of snow or flurries once or twice during the winter. Heavy snowfall that accumulates is very uncommon.
The last significant snowstorms hit Rome in February 2012 and February 2018, when several inches piled up around the city’s monuments. On average, Rome sees about one snow day per winter.
Everything you should know about winter in Rome
25 Things to do in Rome in Winter
Explore the Colosseum without crowds
It is the symbol of Rome and one of the most recognizable landmarks of the eternal city. In ancient Roman times, the colossal building was the arena for cruel events that saw gladiators, warriors, and animals fight for life.
The gates opened in 80 AD, built to host more than 50,000 visitors. However, not many know that the Colosseum is also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre and is incorporated in the Roman Forum, a site filled with many monuments and temples dating back thousand years.
After this long walk from Piazza Venezia, through Via dei Fori Imperiali, you will arrive at the Colosseum square. You can visit the Arena inside and breathe the tense past. The visit to the Colosseum will be more intriguing if you plan to see it at night. There are just a few openings late in the evening.
If you visit Rome in winter, you will be surprised that there are fewer queues than in summer and spring. So, we highly suggest you plan a visit to the Colosseum without the line if staying in Rome in winter.
LOCATION | Colosseum Tickets Entrance, Rome
TICKET | Discover the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and Forum at your own peace!
Indoor market of Testaccio
Don’t worry if it rains in Rome, we have got you covered. Rome gets pretty wet in winter, with 8 to 10 days of rainfall per day, mostly lightly showers and cloudy days. If so, you can plan visiting the market of Testaccio. This is an off the beaten path activity in Rome, and you will find mainly locals shopping around.
The food market is located near the Mattatoio. Early days in Rome, when was a student, I spent so much time around Testaccio, as it is one of the most lively areas in Rome, out of the touristy maps.
Following our tour of the Testaccio district, move to Piazza Testaccio. The small square is one of the most hidden gems of Rome, rarely seen on the city guides.
The quality of the products and fresh-picked goodies sold by local vendors is a unique experience.
Some of these stalls are run by generations of vendors, and there is a varied offer, from cheesemakers to butchers, bakers and other Italian-crafted products.
The Mattatoio means “Slaughterhouse” for butchers. This building is completely renewed, hosting one of the most lively hubs in the city and a buzzy indoor market open until late at night.
OPENING TIME | Everyday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM – Close on Sunday
LOCATION | Testaccio Food Market
TOUR SUGGESTED | Food Tour of Roman Neighborhoods OR Eat like a Roman in Testaccio
Walk around the Trastevere district
Trastevere District isn’t often part of Rome guides. This is partially true because it gets you outside the main attractions and is primarily lively in summer when there are food stalls, craft stands and music along the Tevere River.
However, a walk along the river is the perfect way to experience some of the most fantastic attractions of Rome. Trastevere district is one of the most picturesque areas of Rome, and it’s within walking distance from Piazza Navona, just for reference.
Trastevere District is a formerly working-class area of Rome, close to the city centre and main sightseeing. Old-fashioned buildings, adorned mainly by flowers and vases, give an Italian touch to the atmosphere. If you look in your guide, you might find the visit to the Basilica di Santa Maria.
In this district, there is also Villa Farnesina which is beautiful; if you have more than just a few days in Rome, it is worth visiting these sights. However, if you are looking for the best viewpoints of Rome, look for the Gianicolo, one of the hills of Rome and famous for its walks and viewpoints.
LOCATION | Trastevere District
TOURS SUGGESTIONS|Trastevere & Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour OR River Boat Ride and Food Tour
Experience Fewer Crowds at the Trevi Fountain
As one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, the Trevi Fountain typically draws massive crowds all year. But visiting this Baroque masterpiece in winter provides a less crowded experience.
You can admire the intricate sculptures up close and toss your coins into the fountain without struggling through selfie-snapping crowds. At night, the fountain and its aqua waters shimmer under the glow of the lights.
The lack of crowds during the off-season makes it possible to capture that perfect photo in front of the Trevi Fountain. Be sure to come back during the day too, to see the details you can’t view at night.
Is Trevi Fountain open in winter?
Yes, Trevi Fountain is open year-round. Rome’s most iconic landmark never closes for the winter season. However, come prepared for cold weather since the fountain is outdoors. The area facing the fountain also gets very crowded despite being the low season, so be ready to navigate crowds. Otherwise, you can admire Trevi Fountain’s Baroque beauty rain or shine.
Take advantage of winter sales in January
If you are in Rome in winter, you should look after your bank account. I fear travelling to Rome while visiting Italy in winter, as Alessia gets crazy. On the other hand, visiting Rome in January means winter sales. Rome is full of trendy fashion shops that will be the perfect playground for shopping addicts. Winter sales in Italy start on the 1st of January, but you might find shops rolling occasional offers beforehand.
If you are planning an escape in January to Rome, it might be the case to pack light and leave extra space in your luggage.
Also Read: Best ways to skip the line at the Colosseum
How much money do I need for 2 days in Rome?
To enjoy 2 days in Rome, budget around €150-250 per person excluding airfare and lodging. This covers admission fees to top sites like the Colosseum (€16) and food/drink. Reserve about €50 per day for meals and café stops. You’ll also want around €30-50 for transportation via metro, bus and taxi. Keep extra on hand for gifts, tours or splurges like museum audio guides.
Ice skating in a fabulous historical scenario
Cold means winter sports activities, and we love skating in winter. So if you are visiting Rome in winter, it will be fun as well, going ice skating is one of the best scenarios in the world.
There are many locations with ice skating rinks. One of the absolute best rinks in Rome is at Castel Sant’Angelo, with a beautiful view of the famous castle and the lights of the river bank. Vatican City is a short distance from Castel Sant’Angelo, which makes it even more magical.
An average ice skating rink session costs about €5 to €10. The experience is affordable and is one of the best things to do in Rome in winter.
Take note of those other locations to enjoy the skates on the ice. The Auditorio Parco Della Musica is also open on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. In one of the most beautiful districts of Rome, the Eur, there is Ice Park Euroma 2, which is open until February, Monday to Friday.
LOCATION | Castel Sant’Angelo
50 Things to do in Rome
Go trough our full guide about the best experience to do in Rome. This trip is a once life opportunity to visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Start to take off some adventures in Rome from our list.
Sip a coffee at a typical Italian Bar
Are you ready to smell freshly roasted coffee early in the morning, accompanied by a soft, tasty croissant outside a local bar? Imagine it, getting down the street, asking for an espresso on the go, to properly wake up.
Of course, you can do that, or sit in a cosy bar, sipping a cup of hot chocolate, due to the severe temperatures, especially in December in Rome. Do you want to know what Italians eat at breakfast, read here!
OUR SUGGESTION | Sunrise E-Bike Experience with Coffee Tasting
COFFEE TOUR | Rome: Espresso, Gelato and Tiramisù Tasting Tour
Cooking Class in Rome | Learn new Italian dishes
If you want to return home with some good cooking school, why don’t you try to have fun behind the stove? There is no better time to learn some tricks on famous Italian dishes; winter in Rome will be stimulating with fantastic activities like this.
Booking your spot at one of Rome’s many cooking classes will help you level up your game. You will impress your guests back home, cooking some famous dishes like carbonara or amatriciana. The guide will take you to the local market, interact with local vendors and teach you how to buy just the fresh ingredients.
COOKING CLASS IN ROME SUGGESTED |Street Food Tour with Local Guide OR Rome: Gourmet Food Tour
AVERAGE PRICES |£30 pp | $38 pp | €32 pp
If you like it, you might be interested in:
Go for a cooking class in Florence
Learn the art of Pizza: A Pizza-Making Class in Naples
Learn how to make pasta from an Italian Nonna
Monti District Street Food Tour
Explore the trendy neighbourhood of Monti on a gastronomic adventure. Be guided by a local food expert.
Rome: Gourmet Food Tour
Discover the flavours of Rome on this Gourmet Food Tour of Trastevere. On this neighbourhood food walk, you will taste the old recipes of the city and be guided by a local food expert.
Rome Street Food Tour with Local Guide
An authentic food tour with a local guide through the delicious dishes and products of Rome. Combine a tour with food tasting.
Eat roasted chestnuts from a local vendor
You might find the local chestnut vendor on the corner of the street. This is a local thing which will warm you up on a cold day. Roasted chestnuts are so tasty, and sometimes those little stands are located in scenic spots which makes it more suggestive to buy a cone.
The vendors will sell you a cone-shaped pot, which is incredible and ready to be posted on Instagram. If you don’t spot a local vendor, you can ask locals for “caldarroste”.
Also Read: Reasons to visit Rome in Spring
Indulge into Rome’s Best Hot Chocolate
What better way to warm up on a chilly winter day than with a cup of hot chocolate? Sipping the thick, creamy chocolate delights provides the quintessential winter experience in Rome.
The city offers countless cafes to sample hot chocolate, but a few favorites stand out. Grezzo Raw Chocolate serves their raw, vegan version topped with coconut milk or almond foam. Ciuri Ciuri offers a decadent hot chocolate made from high-quality Peruvian cocoa and organic sugar.
Go inside the Pantheon
One of the most marvellous buildings in Rome is the Pantheon. Often left behind the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, this stunning building is for us one of the unmissable places to visit in Rome in winter. The Dome of the first Roman Temple, the only one still standing fine, is made of marble columns all around and a 43-metres dome with a particular hole on the top filtering the sunlight. The hole is called oculus and is associated with the eye.
The Pantheon is a church and from 2023 you must pay €5 to enter (before was free).
LOCATION | Pantheon of Rome
OPENING TIME | Every day from 8.30 am to 7.15 pm – Sunday 9 am to 5.45 pm – Closed on Christmas Day and 1st January
TOUR GUIDES | 35-Minute Pantheon Audio Guide Tour OR Discover Pantheon: Guided Tour of the Glory of Rome
Attend the Christmas mass at the Vatican
Italian is very religious, and it’s tradition to attend the Christmas mass. Rome is the city of the Pope that has its seat in Vatican City, which is part of Rome. On Christmas Day, there is a special event at the St. Peter’s Church which is attracting faithful from everywhere. If it is happening that you are in Rome at Christmas, you can’t miss this event.
Due to the high demand, the event has got an online ticketing request, which needs to be made in advance. Try to sort out your entrance at the beginning of November, when the tickets are out.
LOCATION | St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
TICKETS | Christmas mass at the Vatican – Download the request for the tickets FREE
Follow the Pope walk parade at the Immaculate conception day
If you are missing the above event but you are visiting Rome in December, you should consider adding the Pope walk Parade on the 8th December. This is a particular day for every religion, and you can feel it especially in Rome. The whole country is closed by the national holiday, which celebrates the Virgin Mary. The Pope himself is paying his tribute with a pilgrimage to Piazza Mignanelli, which is close by the famous Spanish Steps. You can understand that the city centre of Rome will be completely paralyzed by this event on that day. The Pope’s Pilgrimage is planned at 4 pm.
Fell in love with the Sistine Chapel without crowds
Put in your list of things to do in Rome in winter, visit some museums. Rome is full of art and priceless masterpieces. One of the most recognizable pieces of art in Rome is the Sistine Chapel, the beautiful gem of Michelangelo in Vatican City.
We can’t lie to you saying that your entrance will be smooth, even in winter you have to queue to enjoy the tour, but it’s shorter compared to summer. Also in winter, it is less hard to queue to get in St. Peter’s Church. We suggest you visit Rome in January, planning a visit to the Sistine chapel in advance.
LOCATION | St. Peter’s Church and Sistine Chapel
TICKETS | Buy your ticket to the Sistine Chapel in advance
OPENING TIME | Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm – Closed on Sunday
You can visit the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum for free! Do you want to know more?
Find cheap deals to skip the line tickets to the Sistine Chapel in Rome
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry
Marvel at masterpieces from antiquity to Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes. Enjoy optional access to the Papal Villas and Vatican Gardens.
3-Hour Semi-Private Early Vatican Tour
Discover the flavors of Rome on this Gourmet Food Tour of Trastevere. On this neighborhood food walk you will taste the old recipes of the city and be guided by a local food expert.
Wander around the Christmas Market in Piazza Navona
Winter in Rome means many Christmas holidays, and we can assure you that Rome has got some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
Despite the many locations that offer a wide range of stands with Christmas gifts and activities, the one we like and suggest it’s in Piazza Navona. The market in the city centre is unique, with a gastronomic range of products coming from the Italian traditions. The whole huge square is adorned with lights and Christmas decorations, which make this space even more adorable.
Enjoy the tasty food Castelli Romani
No one ever told you about the amazing food at the Castelli Romani. This is because a few people have experienced Rome as we did.
The Castelli Romani, it’s the area surrounding Rome, this is one of the most beautiful places not only for food. Places like Rocca di Papa, Frascati, Ariccia and many others will say nothing to you, just because you have never been there.
Go wine tasting at local “Vineria”
Talking about wine, we can’t miss a tour in our Rome winter guide. Visiting Italy in winter you should go straight on a wine tasting tour through the streets of the Capital. You can choose between many options, from a cosy location to a more local tasting. We have suggested a few below, that can help you to pick up the best for your next trip.
TOUR SUGGESTED | Six Tastings – A Wine Haven in Rome
Warm Up with a Bowl of Pasta
When winter’s chilly temps drop in Rome, nothing comforts more than a hearty bowl of pasta. The cooler weather provides the ideal time to sample Rome’s pillowy fresh pasta and rich, long-simmered ragus.
Indulge in decadent carbonara, with its peppery bacon and silky egg sauce coating al dente noodles. Or opt for the Roman classic cacio e pepe, combining sharp Pecorino Romano cheese with cracked black pepper.
Rome overflows with restaurants serving mouthwatering pasta. But for the ultimate winter food experience, dine at Flavio al Velavevodetto for their artichoke ravioli with butter and sage. The pastas homemade daily provides pure comfort on a cold day.
Drive through the streets of Rome
It can be a dream! With fewer people around in Rome in winter, you should pick up that idea that is crushing in your mind from long, drive a Fiat 500 through one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
An experience that during summer could be hard, due to the heavy traffic and the numerous tourists around the streets of the old town. If you are scared to drive in Italy, which is understandable, you can always book a guided tour with a driver. This will help you to visit the main sightseeing and experience a bit that dream you had for a long time.
TOUR SUGGESTED | Drive a Fiat 500 like an Italian
Experience a traditional Christmas Feast
Christmas Eve means one thing in Italy – the Feast of the Seven Fishes. This traditional seafood dinner stems from the Roman Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat on Christmas Eve.
In Rome, you’ll find restaurants serving lavish seafood spreads on December 24th. Feasts include various fish like calamari, shrimp, and branzino, along with anchovies, lobster, and eel.
Seek out a restaurant like Pierluigi for a memorable Christmas Eve dinner. Their seven-course menu features the best of Italy’s seafood bounty with sensational dishes like seabass carpaccio and lobster linguine.
Or opt for La Vecchia Roma and their contemporary twist on the classic feast. Either way, you’ll indulge in an extravagant Italian holiday meal.
Other ways to spend Christmas In Rome
Above we have started to talk about Christmas in Rome, and we couldn’t miss more information about. There are many significant areas of Rome worth checking out during Christmas time. From the nativity scene at the Vatican Square, one of the best in the world to the awesome Christmas Tree on the Spanish Steps.
The atmosphere of Rome during Christmas is unique, full of sparkling glamorous lights all around the major building and squares. Rome will remain in your heart if visited on Christmas, for us one of the best places to visit in this period of the year. You should also visit Piazza Navona, with the amazing Christmas market, or head to the “LungoTevere”, the riverside of Rome.
A popup Christmas market is taking place every year in Lungotevere from November through January. If you are a music fan, you can find numerous concerts and exhibitions at the Auditorium Parco Della Musica. For a good glass of wine and the winter atmosphere in Rome, we suggest you sit at one of the many bars in Campo de Fiori or visit the morning local market.
Experience Christmas Markets Around Rome
What’s better than sipping mulled wine and shopping for handmade gifts? Rome comes alive with Christmas markets from December through early January. You’ll find artisanal gifts and tantalizing treats while absorbing the festive atmosphere.
Piazza Navona hosts Rome’s most famous Christmas market, with local crafts and food vendors surrounding the stunning fountains. The market at Piazza Mazzini offers handmade ornaments and nativity scenes. And Piazza Montesanto transforms into a picturesque Christmas village, complete with an ice skating rink.
Rome’s Christmas markets provide the chance to experience Italian Christmas traditions. You can shop for unique gifts and ornaments for your own holiday season back home.
Take a day trip to Pompeii
If you are planning to stay longer in Rome, you might think to go for a day trip. One of the best adventures in winter in Italy is visiting Pompeii. The ancient ruins close to Naples are amazing. The trip to Pompeii from Rome is not that easy, but you can always plan it and go for an organized tour.
Visiting Pompeii in winter will let you avoid the long queue that is usually piling up in Summer. If you are not keen to go that far away, stop your trip to Naples which is amazing in winter. If you are visiting Rome at Christmas, give it a go to the south and visit Naples in winter.
Naples at Christmas is amazing and you should visit the Duomo, the nativity scene maker street, San Gregorio Armeno and also try the famous pizza.
TOUR SUGGESTED |Day Trip to Pompeii with Lunch and Guide
OUR GUIDES |Best Pizza in Naples – Best winter sun destinations in Europe
Reasons why you should visit Rome In Winter
There are many reasons why it is worth visiting Rome in winter, and it is not just regarding the beautiful sightseeing and the roman architecture of the Italian capital. Below are five big reasons to motivate you to book a flight ticket to Rome next winter.
- In winter you beat the crowds.
- Transports are less crowded.
- Winter sales mean shopping.
- Christmas in Rome is fantastic.
- Low season always means more affordable accommodation.
- Flights to Rome are cheaper in winter.
What To Pack While Visiting Rome In Winter
A raincoat and a jacket | Although winters in Rome are not excessively cold, it does rain frequently and sometimes it can get quite windy.
Hat, gloves, scarf, and waterproof shoes | To stay cosy and comfortable and not make an enemy of the rains, pack these essentials.
Medicines | Instead of depending on availability, pack the medicines you need and carry some extra vitamin C and Zinc in case you catch a cold.
A good camera | We cannot stress this enough! Breathtaking sunsets and the twinkly Christmas decorations deserve to be shared with friends and family back home.
Extra space | The Christmas markets can certainly turn you into a shopaholic, so make sure your bags have enough space to fit in everything you buy.
Where to stay in winter in Rome
If you are looking for accommodation in Rome in winter, you will be happy to know that the prices average is lowered compared to other seasons. Rome can be expensive, and you can end up in budget accommodation.
In winter even the most luxurious accommodations, close to the main sights could be in line with your budget. Below are some ideas for you, for every pocket.
Getting Around Rome In Winter
With its moderate winter temperatures, Rome remains easily walkable even during the colder months. Just bundle up and wear comfortable shoes to explore by foot. The metro provides an affordable and efficient way to escape the elements, with Lines A and B connecting to major sites.
And buses like the hop-on-hop-off routes allow you to see top attractions while staying warm inside. Taxis stand ready for those who prefer door-to-door service. Just confirm the fare before entering, as taxis do not use meters. Tickets for public transport costs only €1.50, and going for a daily all included card, is just €7.
And with lighter traffic, winter makes an ideal time to drive a rental car between sights. Rome’s user-friendly transportation network keeps you mobile during the off-season.
Be smart visit Rome in the wintertime to avoid crowds
Considering all we have mentioned in this post, you should be sure that visiting Rome in the wintertime is the right decision. Consider periods like mid-November would be even smarter, to avoid crowds and enjoy more the monuments. Instead, January can also help you avoid the little pick time across Christmas, which is incredibly beautiful and so difficult to don’t consider.
This time of the year can help you to lower costs and take better accommodations. We consider February a bit of a hazard due to the unstable weather conditions. It is not only the cold but essentially the high chance of precipitation. February and March are wet days in Italy and being smart you should postpone to spring your visit to Rome, or do it at the earliest convenience.
I wanted to visit Rome this year but due to the pandemic I changed my plan. Hopefully I can visit Italy next year. Very informative post. Thanks!
My favorite city in the world, Rome! My first visit was during wintertime and it was so magic. I love your guide and the pictures are amazing too, so inspiring that makes me want to go back during winter time again and do the other things I haven’t done.
I visited Rome a couple of years ago during winter and I absolutely loved it. I really want to go back and check some of the places you’ve included in this post.
I visited Rome last September and loved it but definitely think I would prefer to go back in the winter after reading your post! It sounds magical, especially in December and without crowds!!
These are all such fantastic ideas! We visited in May but it sounds really nice visiting in winter!
Rome in winter has got a completely different charm. The city is always beautiful and it doesn’t matter when you visit it 🙂