Things to Do in Rome in December

Rome is one of the most visited cities in the world. Located in the Italian region of Lazio, Rome is the country’s capital and its largest and most populous city. Originally founded by the ancient Romans, Rome was once the center of the Roman Empire and still holds an impressive amount of historical sites and monuments. From medieval churches to Baroque palaces, Rome is a city full of spectacular architecture and amazing art. Its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere make it a great destination to visit in any season. Here are some of the top things to do in Rome in December.

Top Attractions in Rome

Rome is a city full of iconic landmarks and popular tourist attractions. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, here are some of the best places to visit in Rome.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is one of Rome’s most recognizable landmarks. Built around 70-80 AD, it was used for gladiator battles, animal hunts and executions. Today, the Colosseum is a popular tourist attraction and is featured on almost every postcard from Rome.

The Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was once the political and religious center of Rome. It is a sprawling archaeological site located between the Palatine Hill and the Roman Colosseum. The Forum was once home to some of the most important monuments of ancient Rome, such as the Senate House, the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Septimius Severus.

Vatican City

Vatican City is an independent city-state located within Rome’s city limits. It is home to some of the world’s most important religious sites, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and The Vatican Museums. Vatican City is also home to the Pope, who is the head of the Catholic Church.

Events in Rome

Rome is always full of amazing events and activities in December. Here are some of the best things to do during your stay in Rome.

Christmas Markets

Rome’s Christmas markets offer a great chance to get into the festive spirit. The markets offer everything from traditional Italian gifts such as handcrafted jewelry and traditional food to toys and decorations for Christmas. The biggest Christmas market takes place in Piazza Navona, but there are also smaller markets located in Campo dei Fiori, Trastevere and Largo Argentina.

Nativity Scenes

Nativity scenes are a Christmas tradition in Italy and can be found all over Rome in December. The most popular nativities can be found at St. Peter’s Square, Piazza Navona and Castel Sant’Angelo. Each scene is unique and offers an interesting insight into Italian culture and traditions.

Carols and Choirs

Christmas carols are a popular tradition in Rome and there are many choirs that perform live in churches and piazzas throughout December. Some of the best churches for carols include Santa Maria Maggiore, San Giovanni in Laterano and Santa Croce in Gerusalemme.

Tours in Rome

One of the best ways to explore Rome is on a guided tour. Here are two popular tours that can be booked online.

Vatican City Tour

This 3-hour Vatican City tour takes you to some of the most famous sites within this tiny city-state, including St. Peter’s Basilica, The Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. You’ll also have the chance to explore some of the lesser-known art galleries and chapels within the Vatican walls. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in art, history and religion. Book a Vatican City Tour here.

Night Tour of Ancient Rome

This 2-hour evening tour takes you to some of ancient Rome’s most famous sites, including the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. Your guide will provide you with an overview of life in Ancient Rome and tell you stories about its emperors, gladiators and senators. This tour is perfect for anyone interested in Roman history and culture. Book a Night Tour of Ancient Rome here.

Conclusion

Rome is an amazing city full of history, culture and art. Whether you’re looking for something romantic or something family-friendly, there is something for everyone during December in Rome. From Christmas markets to guided tours, there are plenty of things to do to get into the festive spirit!

An Insider’s Guide to Rome in December

December is a beautiful time to visit Rome when the city becomes quieter and takes on a serene beauty. The mild winter weather provides the perfect opportunity to explore the hidden gems and local hangouts of the city. Here is a guide to help you discover Rome from a local’s perspective.

Local Attractions

When in Rome, most tourists flock to the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum, but there are several other hidden gems worth exploring in the city. One such place is the Aventine Hill, which is often called the “secret keyhole of Rome.” Walking up the lush green path to the top of the hill takes you to the Knights of Malta Keyhole, where you can peek through a keyhole and see a stunning view of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Another lesser-known attraction worth exploring is the Basilica of San Clemente. This 12th-century basilica has three levels, each representing a different era of Rome’s history. It takes you through early Christian times to the Roman Empire period, and finally ends with the current church structure.

Dining Spots

Rome’s cuisine is famous, and there is no shortage of places to explore. When in Rome, do as the Romans do and indulge in some delicious pizza al taglio (pizza by weight) at Pizzarium. This joint serves some of the best and most creative pizza toppings, with fresh ingredients sourced from the city’s markets.

Another local favorite food to try is the trapizzino. This unique, triangular-shaped bread filled with a choice of mouth-watering meat or vegetable toppings is served at Trapizzino in Testaccio, close to the city’s largest outdoor food market.

Cultural Experiences

December in Rome is a beautiful time to experience some of the city’s rich cultural traditions. During the month of December, the city celebrates Christmas with decorations and lights throughout the city. The Piazza Navona transforms into a Christmas market with street performers, handmade crafts, and traditional Italian merchandise.

Another cultural experience worth exploring in Rome is the city’s contemporary art scene. The MAXXI Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid, is a modernist building that houses some of Italy’s finest art collections. The Palazzo delle Esposizioni is another great museum that hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary Italian and international artists.

Local History

No trip to Rome is complete without exploring the city’s rich and interesting history. One such interesting historical spot is the Via Appia Antica, the ancient Appian Way that leads out of the city. The ruins of old Roman villas, catacombs, and churches dot the road. A guided bike tour down the Appian Way will leave you with a deeper understanding of ancient Rome.

Another historical spot to explore is the Castel Sant’Angelo, the mausoleum built by Emperor Hadrian for himself and his family. Over the centuries, the building transformed from a tomb to a fortress and is now a museum exhibiting objects from the history of the building, as well as Renaissance art.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and offbeat experience in Rome, visit Cinecitta Studios. This is where some of Italy’s finest art-house films are made. A guided tour of the studios will take you through the various sets used in making the films. The 1950s-style interior of the studio cafeteria will transport you back to the golden era of Italian cinema.

Another unbeaten path suggestion is a visit to the San Lorenzo district, which is the bohemian heart of Rome. The place is buzzing with street art, DIY cafes, graffiti-covered walls, and craft beer bars. It’s a fantastic place to experience Rome’s street culture and alternative art scene.

In conclusion, Rome in December offers unique cultural experiences and hidden gems that can provide a fantastic experience away from the traditional tourist spots. Follow this guide to experience Rome from a local lens and build unforgettable memories.