So, you're considering leaving all the stress and chaos of the holidays at home this year and going on Roman holiday instead. Once you have found the perfect vacation rental in Rome, you might be wondering what is on offer in that great city over Christmas. You might even be worrying that there will be nothing to see and do, that this very Catholic area might shut down completely over the festive period but, never fear, there is plenty going on! While you plan your Christmas in Rome, read through our festive guide to the city and get ready for a fun, memorable and utterly stress-free holiday this year. In part one of this guide, we're going to discuss when the sights, shops and restaurants are open.
Contrary to many people's expectations, Rome is actually very alive over the entire Christmas period, even on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and lots of places stay open for these two days. However, do expect the closure of big monuments and museums. Most reopen by the 26th so you won't have to wait too long if there's any sight that you want to visit while in the city – plus, the most famous sights such as the Colosseum will be at their quietest on the 26th so it's the perfect time to visit without the crazy lines and tourist crowds that are usually a constant feature of such places. Some places, such as the Vatican, do have slightly longer closures so be sure to double-check before you head out anywhere!
When it comes to shopping, in the run up to Christmas, often from late November, most shops have longer opening hours and don't close over lunch as they normally do. However, unlike in other parts of the world, almost all shops will close by 6pm on Christmas Eve and remain closed until the 27th.
Also, don't come expecting sales on the 26th, as is common in the UK and Ireland. Sales are regulated in Italy and only happen twice a year. The winter sales begin the first Saturday of January.
If you really need something on Christmas Day, the shops, grocery stores and pharmacies of Termini Train Station remain open, however. With restaurants, there is more variation in openings. You'll definitely find somewhere to eat but you may need to wander a bit!
Now that you've learned about when the regular sights, shops and restaurants are open, you're probably looking to find out all about the special events and activities happening in Rome over the festive period. If so, read on to our second post for even more information on Rome at Christmas.
Also, don't come expecting sales on the 26th, as is common in the UK and Ireland. Sales are regulated in Italy and only happen twice a year. The winter sales begin the first Saturday of January.
If you really need something on Christmas Day, the shops, grocery stores and pharmacies of Termini Train Station remain open, however. With restaurants, there is more variation in openings. You'll definitely find somewhere to eat but you may need to wander a bit!
Now that you've learned about when the regular sights, shops and restaurants are open, you're probably looking to find out all about the special events and activities happening in Rome over the festive period. If so, read on to our second post for even more information on Rome at Christmas.
