15 Perfect Things to Do in Rome Between Christmas and New Year’s 2025

Rome becomes truly magical during the holiday season. Between Christmas and New Year’s, the city is transformed by twinkling lights, festive decorations, and bustling holiday traditions. From historic squares to charming neighborhoods, there is an enchanting mix of culture, folklore, and seasonal cheer waiting around every corner. Visitors can enjoy everything from iconic Christmas trees and nativity scenes to ice skating, festive pastries, and classical concerts in centuries-old churches. Whether you’re wandering illuminated streets, exploring markets, or taking in panoramic views, Rome offers a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. This guide highlights 15 perfect things to do in Rome during this special time of year, with addresses, transport tips, and cost information to help you plan your festive adventure.

1. Night Walk to See Lit-Up Monuments

Overview: Walking at night to see Rome’s monuments illuminated is one of the most magical experiences in the city. From the Colosseum to Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps, the lights create perfect scenes for photos and leisurely strolls. The experience combines history, architecture, and the festive holiday atmosphere.

Key spots: Colosseum, Piazza del Popolo, Spanish Steps
How to get there: Metro Line B for Colosseo; Line A for Spagna; buses 117, 119
Cost: Free

2. Piazza Navona Christmas Market

Overview: Piazza Navona hosts the traditional Festa della Befana, a Christmas market celebrating Italian folklore. While it differs from northern “German-style” markets by focusing more on toys, handmade nativity figures, and the legendary Befana witch, it remains an iconic festive tradition. Visitors can enjoy crafts, decorations, and festive entertainment in the historic square. It’s the perfect place to soak up the festive atmosphere, taste seasonal sweets like torrone and panettone, and watch street performers entertain the crowds. Colorful lights make the square especially enchanting for holiday photos.

Address: Piazza Navona, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Bus lines 64, 62, or 492 to Corso Vittorio Emanuele; then a short walk.
Cost: Free entry; items from €3–€15

3. Winter Views from Gianicolo Hill

Overview: Gianicolo Hill offers panoramic winter views of Rome, providing a quiet escape and stunning photo opportunities. It’s ideal at sunset or in the evening when the city is illuminated. The uphill walk is rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Rome’s iconic rooftops, monuments, and historical skyline.

Address: Passeggiata del Gianicolo, 00165 Roma RM
How to get there: Bus 115 or 870; or Tram 8 to Trastevere followed by a 15-minute uphill walk.
Cost: Free

4. Vatican Square and Nativity Scene

Overview: St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City is a unique Christmas destination, featuring a magnificent tree and traditional nativity scene. Thousands of visitors come to admire the decorations and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica. During the festive season, music and performances enhance the magical holiday atmosphere.

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano
How to get there: Metro Line A to Ottaviano; 5-min walk
Cost: Free

5. Christmas World at Villa Borghese (Galoppatoio)

Overview: Christmas World has moved to the Galoppatoio area of Villa Borghese. This massive holiday attraction features rides, workshops, shows, and interactive activities for all ages. Beyond entertainment, visitors can enjoy serene walks through beautifully landscaped gardens, historical sculptures, and small lakes, making it a full festive experience.

Address: Viale das Cavalline (Galoppatoio), 00197 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Metro Line A to Spagna or Flaminio; 15-min walk
Cost: €15–€25 (Booking online is highly recommended)

6. Ice Skating at Auditorium Parco della Musica

Overview: Rome offers several seasonal ice skating rinks during the holiday season. A reliable option is the rink at Auditorium Parco della Musica, decorated with festive lights and music, creating a lively atmosphere for families, couples, and friends. Skating here provides a unique contrast to Rome’s ancient streets, and nearby holiday installations enhance the festive experience. Seasonal rinks may also appear near Castel Sant’Angelo and Piazza Cavour during Christmas, but these are temporary and operate only during the holiday period.

Address: Viale Pietro de Coubertin, 30, 00196 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Tram 2 from Piazzale Flaminio
Cost: €8–€12 per session, skate rental included

7. Christmas Pastries at Historic Cafés

Overview: Enjoy Rome’s festive pastries in historic cafés like Caffè Greco and Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè. Taste seasonal specialties like panettone and struffoli while soaking up the classic atmosphere of locations frequented by writers, artists, and intellectuals over the centuries. This experience combines culture, history, and gastronomy.

Locations:
- Caffè Greco: Via dei Condotti 86, 00187 Roma RM
- Sant’Eustachio Il Caffè: Piazza Sant’Eustachio 82, 00186 Roma RM
How to get there: Metro Line A to Spagna (Caffè Greco); for Sant’Eustachio, walk from Largo Argentina or use Bus 40/64.
Cost: €5–€15 per pastry/coffee

8. Trastevere Christmas Lights

Overview: Trastevere becomes even more charming with Christmas lights decorating its narrow cobblestone streets. It’s the perfect neighborhood for evening walks, dining in traditional trattorias, and taking picturesque photos. The historic charm combined with festive decorations creates an authentic Roman holiday experience.

Address: Trastevere, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Tram 8 from Piazza Venezia; bus 44 from Largo Argentina
Cost: Free

9. Via dei Condotti Christmas Lights

Overview: Via dei Condotti, famous for its luxury boutiques, becomes a spectacular display of Christmas lights. Walking along this street combines historic charm, festive shop windows, and holiday magic. Even without shopping, it’s a perfect location for a festive stroll or elegant photos in the heart of Rome.

Address: Via dei Condotti, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Metro Line A to Spagna
Cost: Free; shopping optional

10. Christmas Tree at Piazza Venezia

Overview: Piazza Venezia in the heart of Rome hosts a grand Christmas tree, adorned with dazzling lights and ornaments. This central square is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike. Note: Due to significant construction for Metro Line C, the square is currently surrounded by work sites which may affect photos; occasionally, the main city tree is moved to Piazza del Popolo.

Address: Piazza Venezia, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Any bus to Piazza Venezia; or Metro Line B to Colosseo followed by a 10-min walk.
Cost: Free

11. Galleria Alberto Sordi Christmas Decorations

Overview: This historic shopping gallery in central Rome is beautifully decorated for Christmas, making it enjoyable for visitors seeking holiday decorations or looking to shop. The elegant space combines classical architecture and festive displays, providing a cultural and festive experience in one location.

Address: Via del Corso, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Metro Line A to Spagna or Barberini; 5–10 min walk
Cost: Free; shopping optional

12. Explore Rome’s Food Markets

Overview: Markets like Campo de’ Fiori and Testaccio provide an immersive experience in local gastronomy, with fresh produce, seasonal treats, and Roman specialties. Visitors can taste sweets, cheeses, and cured meats while experiencing everyday Roman life and buying unique foodie souvenirs.

Locations:
- Campo de’ Fiori: Piazza Campo de’ Fiori, 00186 Roma RM
- Testaccio Market: Via Beniamino Franklin, 00153 Roma RM
How to get there: Campo de’ Fiori: Bus 64, 40; Testaccio: Metro Line B to Piramide
Cost: Free entry; tasting €3–€10 per item

13. Visit the Pantheon

Overview: The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most iconic monuments. Since July 2023, entry for non-residents requires a paid ticket. Its stunning architecture and the solemn atmosphere inside make it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to explore the heart of ancient Rome. During the holidays, its historical significance offers a quiet moment of reflection amidst the city’s festivities.

Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
How to get there: Bus 40, 64, or 46 to Largo Argentina; then a 5-minute walk.
Cost: €5 per adult (Online reservation is required for weekends and public holidays)

14. Attend a Christmas Concert

Overview: Listening to a Christmas concert in Rome’s historic churches is an unforgettable experience. Classical music and choral performances resonate in architecturally stunning venues like Santa Cecilia in Trastevere and Santa Maria del Popolo, blending tradition, spirituality, and art during the holiday season.

Locations:
- Santa Cecilia: Piazza di Santa Cecilia, 22, 00153 Roma RM
- Santa Maria del Popolo: Piazza del Popolo, 12, 00187 Roma RM
How to get there: Metro Line A to Flaminio (Santa Maria del Popolo); for Santa Cecilia, take a pleasant walk through the Trastevere neighborhood.
Cost: €10–€35 per ticket (Note that some liturgical musical services are free)

15. New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Overview: Celebrating New Year’s Eve at Piazza del Popolo offers live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere with thousands of people. It’s a free event ideal for experiencing the city’s energy and welcoming the new year in the heart of Rome.