christmas in Rome

Christmas in Rome – Where to go and what to do

Visiting the Christmas markets in Rome is one of the many things you can do if you are planning to spend the Christmas holidays in the capital. The eternal city is in fact wonderful in all periods of the year, but at Christmas the magic atmosphere created by the markets, the decorations of the shop windows, the lights makes it irresistible.

If you are undecided about what to see or where to go during your Christmas holiday, do not worry: below we will give you some advice to help you to enjoy your holiday without making errors.

THE FIVE THINGS TO DO IN CHRISTMAS IN ROME

1. ADMIRE THE CHRISTMAS TREE AND THE NATIVITY IN PIAZZA SAN PIETRO

Every year from a different country, the wonderful, large and luminous Christmas tree is placed in the centre of the square, next to the obelisk, creating an evocative setting in which to walk.

Moreover you shouldn’t miss in St. Peter’s Square the beautiful nativity set up near the tree, which every year makes the night special.

2. WATCH THE LIGHTING OF THE LUMINARIES IN VIA DEL CORSO

Among the events that start the Christmas celebrations there is the lighting of the lights in Via del Corso, which changes every year. The lighting is accompanied by the traditional concert of the musical band of the Carabinieri, which proposes classical songs of the Christmas period, but also some military marches.

3. VISIT THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN ROME

Among the Christmas markets in Rome there is the historical one in Piazza Navona, which is set up every year since the last weekend of November until the Epiphany.
The market is based on the theme of the “Befana”, of which you will be able to find figurines and images, as well as socks full of sweets or charcoal. In addition, in the stalls you can find crafts, decorations, sweets, toys, characters of the Nativity scene.
There will also be a traditional carousel and a puppet theater, the classic Nativity scene and much more.

Christmas market of piazza Mazzini

Since the end of November until the Epiphany it offers Chritmas objects and gift ideas (from pashminas to herbal products, from regional gastronomic specialties to wooden products)

Christmas craft market of Cinecittà

Here you will find on display the works of more than 30 artisans specialized in various techniques: colored fabrics, papier-mâché, ceramics, candles, soaps, metals, air chambers, leather, stones, wood and modeling pastes. it will be an opportunity to find a gift idea to put under the tree!
The square of Cinecittà hosts at Christmas stands, concerts and workshops.

4. SKATE ON THE SKATING TRACK OF CASTEL SANT’ANGELO

Christmas in Rome: skate at Castel Sant’Angelo
Skating together with relatives or friends in one in the breathtaking scenery of Castel Sant’Angelo will be an unforgettable experience that you should try.

5. SEE THE EXHIBITION OF THE 100 NATIVITY SCENES IN PIAZZA DEL POPOLO

Exhibition of 100 nativity scenes in Rome at Christmas

You will find an exhibition in the “Sale del Bramante”,, on a surface of 350 square meters, of about 200 Nativity scenes built with the most various materials (pasta, cork, clay, rice, shells, …) from all regions of Italy with a large Nativity tradition and from many countries of the world, all made in the name of peace, brotherhood and respect for the values of other religious confessions.