Christmas is a wonderful time to be in Rome. The city is filled with festivity, lights and a joyful atmosphere. As a travel expert, I have put together a guide on what to do on Christmas Day in Rome to help you make the most of your time in this fantastic city.
Explore the Stunning Churches
Rome is known for its beautiful churches, and Christmas is the perfect time to visit them. On Christmas Day, many churches offer special services, including midnight Mass. The most famous church in Rome is St. Peter’s Basilica, located in Vatican City. Here, you can attend Mass with the Pope himself.
Other churches worth visiting on Christmas Day include the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano, and the Pantheon. These churches are all decorated with beautiful Christmas lights and ornaments, making them even more stunning than usual.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is one of the four papal basilicas in Rome. It is famous for its beautiful mosaics and stunning architecture. On Christmas Day, the church offers a special Mass, which is attended by many locals and tourists alike.
Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
The Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano is the oldest and most important church in Rome. It is also the official seat of the Pope, making it a must-visit on Christmas Day. The church offers a special Mass, which is attended by many locals and tourists.
Enjoy a Festive Meal
Christmas in Rome is all about food, and there are plenty of amazing restaurants where you can enjoy a festive meal. Many restaurants offer a special Christmas menu, which includes traditional Italian dishes like panettone, tortellini in brodo, and roasted meats.
Some of the best restaurants to try on Christmas Day include La Pergola, Roscioli, and Ristorante Aroma. These restaurants offer a unique dining experience, with stunning views of the city and delicious food.
La Pergola
La Pergola is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant located on the top floor of the Rome Cavalieri hotel. It offers stunning views of the city and a menu that is a true culinary delight. On Christmas Day, the restaurant offers a special festive menu, which is sure to impress.
Roscioli
Roscioli is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving delicious food since 1922. Its menu is filled with traditional Roman dishes, and the restaurant is known for its amazing wine selection. On Christmas Day, Roscioli offers a special menu that includes dishes like stuffed guinea fowl and homemade panettone.
Attend a Christmas Concert
Rome is known for its beautiful music, and Christmas is the perfect time to attend a concert. Many churches and concert halls offer special Christmas concerts, featuring everything from classical music to traditional Italian carols.
Some of the best places to attend a Christmas concert in Rome include the Auditorium Parco della Musica, the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, and the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. These venues offer world-class performances and a festive atmosphere.
Auditorium Parco della Musica
The Auditorium Parco della Musica is one of the most important concert halls in Rome. It offers a wide range of musical performances, including classical music, jazz, and pop. On Christmas Day, the venue hosts a special Christmas concert, which is sure to get you in the festive spirit.
Conclusion
Christmas in Rome is a truly magical experience, with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you want to attend a Mass in one of the city’s stunning churches, enjoy a festive meal at a top restaurant, or attend a Christmas concert, there is something for everyone in Rome. So, if you’re planning a trip to Rome over the holidays, be sure to check out these amazing activities and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
