Are you planning a trip to Rome in December and wondering what activities and events are available during the holiday season? Rome is a magical city any time of year, but during the month of December, it’s especially enchanting. From festive markets to beautiful light displays, here are some suggestions for what to do in Rome this December.

Christmas Markets

One of the best things about visiting Rome in December is the abundance of Christmas markets throughout the city. The markets offer a great opportunity to explore local crafts and food, and to get into the holiday spirit. Some of the most popular Christmas markets include the Piazza Navona market, which features a large Christmas tree and over 100 booths selling handmade crafts and traditional Italian foods, as well as the Campo de’ Fiori market, which is known for its unique gifts and decorations.

Piazza Navona Market

Located in the heart of Rome, the Piazza Navona market is a must-visit attraction during the holiday season. Here you can find a variety of food items, including roasted chestnuts, sweets, and mulled wine. You can also browse through the many handmade crafts and decorations, such as ornaments, candles, and nativity scenes. The market is open from early December through Epiphany on January 6th.

Campo de’ Fiori Market

Another popular market in Rome is the Campo de’ Fiori market, which is open year-round but particularly festive during the holiday season. Here you’ll find unique gifts and decorations, such as handmade jewelry, ceramics, and Christmas ornaments. You can also sample traditional Italian foods, such as cured meats and cheeses, as well as sweets and baked goods. The market is open daily except for Sundays.

Light Displays

In addition to the Christmas markets, Rome is also known for its beautiful light displays during the holiday season. From colorful street decorations to illuminated monuments, there are many ways to experience the magic of Rome at night.

Via del Corso

One of the most popular places to see Christmas lights in Rome is Via del Corso, one of the city’s main shopping streets. Here you’ll find a beautiful display of lights, including a large Christmas tree and a series of arches decorated with colorful bulbs. The lights are typically turned on in early December and remain up until after the New Year.

Vatican City

Another great place to see Christmas lights in Rome is Vatican City. The area around St. Peter’s Square is decorated with festive lights and a large Christmas tree. On Christmas Eve, there is also a midnight mass held in St. Peter’s Basilica, which is attended by thousands of people from all over the world.

Museums and Galleries

If you’re looking to escape the cold weather and experience some of Rome’s cultural offerings, there are many museums and galleries to explore during the month of December.

Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are a must-visit for any art lover, offering an incredible collection of works by some of the world’s most famous artists. During December, the museums are less crowded than other times of the year, making it a great time to explore the galleries at your own pace.

Galleria Borghese

Another popular museum in Rome is the Galleria Borghese, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art. The museum is located in a beautiful villa in the heart of Rome’s Villa Borghese park and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours.

In conclusion, Rome is a wonderful destination to visit in December, offering a range of holiday-themed activities and events. Whether you’re interested in exploring Christmas markets, admiring light displays, or experiencing the city’s cultural offerings, there is something for everyone in Rome this December. So pack your bags, bundle up, and get ready to experience the magic of Rome during the holiday season.