Rome, the eternal city, becomes a spiritual and festive magnet during the Christmas season. This time of year is particularly significant for Christians because of Rome's unique and deep-rooted connection to the faith. You can explore a variety of Christmas markets, attend special masses and immerse yourself in the city's festive atmosphere. The combination of Rome's religious and ancient sites and festive celebrations makes for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Good to Know:

• Getting There: Rome is accessible via its two main airports, Fiumicino and Ciampino. High-speed trains from major Italian and European cities also arrive at Rome's central train station, Termini.
• Getting Around: The city's public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, is efficient for getting around Rome. Taxis and walking are excellent options for shorter distances.
• Where to Stay: Consider staying near the Vatican for easy access to Christmas Mass and other festivities, or stay in Trastevere or the historic center.
• How Long to Visit: A short visit of 3-4 days will allow you to experience the main attractions. A week or more is ideal for a deeper exploration, including lesser-known churches and markets.
• Similar Destinations: No city offers a Christmas experience quite like Rome does, but Nuremberg in Germany or Strasbourg in France also possess a unique Christmas flair.

Highlights:

Christmas Mass:

The Midnight Mass at the Vatican, led by the Pope, is a highlight of Christmas in Rome, though it requires advance planning to ensure attendance. Other notable masses include those at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major and Santa Maria della Pace. These masses capture the essence of Christmas, combining religious tradition with communal celebration.

The Vatican on Christmas Day:

The Vatican is particularly significant on Christmas Day. This is where the Pope delivers the Urbi et Orbi address from St. Peter's Basilica, a moment of profound significance for Catholics and a moving experience for all who attend.

Nativity Scenes:

In Rome, every church displays a nativity scene, but the life-size scene next to the Christmas tree in St. Peter's Square is uniquely impressive. Ranging from traditional to contemporary, these displays capture the essence of the Christmas story.

Christmas Markets:

With its traditional toys and sweets, the Befana Christmas Market in Piazza Navona is a highlight. The markets in the Borghese Gardens and Campo Dei Fiori also offer a variety of festive goods and are perfect for finding unique gifts.

Christmas Concerts in Churches:

Rome's churches, such as Sant'Antonio dei Portoghesi, Santa Maria ai Monti and Sant'Ignazio, host enchanting Christmas concerts enhanced by their spectacular surroundings. For a broader musical experience, the "Christmas at the Auditorium" program offers a series of performances outside of religious venues.

See the Ballet:

Rome's renowned ballet companies perform The Nutcracker during the Christmas season. With its Christmas-themed story, this classic ballet is a delightful experience for all ages.

Taste Italian Christmas Treats:

• Panettone: A sweet loaf of bread with candied fruit and raisins, traditionally eaten at Christmas.
• Pandoro: A star-shaped sweet bread dusted with powdered sugar, symbolizing the snow-covered Alps.
• Tozzetti: Crunchy almond biscuits, often accompanied by sweet wine.
• Zaletti: Cornmeal biscuits with raisins, originating in the Veneto region.