Is Rome Worth Visiting in Winter? Things to Do if You Go

October 2, 2025

I Skipped Summer & Visited Rome in Winter

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I’ve visited Rome in every season, but winter might just be my favourite. I especially think it’s a great time of year to visit if it’s your first time in Rome for so many reasons.

There’s something about wandering the quiet streets, sipping espresso under glowing Christmas lights, and seeing the Colosseum without dodging a hundred tour groups that makes winter in Rome feel magical.

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth visiting in the colder months… Spoiler: it totally is!

And I’m breaking down everything you should do, see, eat, and pack to enjoy it just like I did.

⏰ Short on time?

👉 Here are the top activities to do in Rome in Winter

👉 Hotels with a View in Rome

($) Trevi Rome Suite
($$) Relais Fontana di Trevi
($$$) Harry’s Bar Trevi Hotel & Restaurant

Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.

Going to Rome? Don’t waste hours researching.

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Food, sights, viewpoints + hidden gems

This is exactly what I’d use if I was planning Rome again.

Why Visit Rome in Winter?

Fewer tourists, cozy trattorias, and festive vibes. You get to see the big sights without the lines and chaos, plus the city looks gorgeous dressed in lights. Flights and hotels are often cheaper (except Christmas and New Year), and you’ll have space to breathe in places that are usually packed.

Oh and the food? Even better when you’re warming up with cacio e pepe and a glass of red.

👉 Planning to visit in December or January? Book your accommodation early. The best centrally located hotels fill up around the holidays.

Must-See Sights in Winter

Even in the chillier months, Rome’s iconic sights don’t lose their magic in fact, they might be even better. I visited the Vatican Museums one chilly morning in January and practically had the Raphael Rooms to myself.

Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel – Less time in line = more time staring at Michelangelo’s ceiling. Skip the line here
St. Peter’s Basilica – Step inside for a warm escape and epic architecture. Don’t miss climbing the dome for panoramic winter views.

The Colosseum – There’s a special atmosphere walking through ancient ruins with fog rolling in. Pre-book your ticket here
Pantheon – It’s especially beautiful lit up in the early evening with fewer crowds around.

Activities & Easy Day Trips

If you want more than sightseeing, winter is perfect for cozy activities and short trips out of the city.

Take a pasta-making class – This is still one of my most memorable things to do in Rome. 👉 Join a cooking class here
Soak in Roman history with fewer crowds – A walking tour through Trastevere or a food tour in Testaccio is a must.
Day trip to Orvieto – The Umbrian hill town is charming in winter and just a short train ride away. 👉 We recommend this day trip
Visit the Baths of Caracalla – A lesser-known gem that’s peaceful in the off-season.

Fun activity in Rome

👉 You can’t go to Italy without taking a cooking class. Watch my experience in Rome!

👉 View tour here

Winter Only Experiences

There are a few things you can only experience in Rome during the colder months, and they’re absolutely worth planning around.

Christmas Markets at Piazza Navona – Yes, they’re touristy but also adorable, with lights, stalls, and a vintage carousel.
Ice skating in Castel Sant’Angelo – I didn’t expect to be skating in front of a Roman fortress, but here we are.
Seasonal treats – Look out for panettone, struffoli, and vin brulé (mulled wine) around the city.

Hotels with a view of the Colosseum

($) Colosseum Panoramic Rooms
($$) The Fifteen Keys Hotel
($$$) Hotel Palazzo Manfredi

How to Spend Christmas in Rome

If you’re in Rome over Christmas, it feels like you’ve stepped into a living nativity. Literally, churches across the city display elaborate presepi (nativity scenes). Here’s what to expect:

Attend Midnight Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica – Even if you can’t get a seat inside, watching from the square is beautiful.
Walk down Via del Corso – The whole street lights up with festive decorations.
Enjoy a festive meal – Book early for Christmas Eve or Day if you want to dine out. Seafood is the traditional meal of choice on the 24th!

Spooky activity in Rome

Looking for something spooky to do in Rome?

View tour here

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Rome

Rome on NYE is a whole vibe, energetic, chaotic, and so fun.

Fireworks at Circus Maximus – Expect music, food trucks, and a big (free!) celebration.
Piazza del Popolo party – Another lively option if you like big crowds and DJs.
Romantic dinner + rooftop countdown – A quieter option for couples many hotels and restaurants offer special menus with views.