Rome Christmas Markets: A Festive Italian Experience

Rome, the Eternal City, embraces the holiday spirit with its charming Christmas markets. While they may not rival the grandeur of German or Austrian markets, they offer a unique blend of Italian flair, ancient history, and festive cheer. Let’s explore the top Christmas markets in Rome:

**Nov. 26, 2024** The 95-foot tree is from the Alpine forests of Ledro in Trentino. ©2024 Cerchio Travel

The tree-lighting ceremony and unveiling of the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square are scheduled for 6:30 pm on December 7, 2024. Click here for details on the celebration.

According to recent Vatican custom, the Christmas tree and a large Nativity scene displayed beside it will remain in St. Peter’s Square through Jan. 12, 2025, the feast of the Baptism of the Lord.

Piazza Navona Christmas Market

Dates: The Piazza Navona Christmas Market typically runs from early December until early January.
Location: Piazza Navona, a historic square adorned with Bernini’s magnificent fountains, hosts a delightful market.
Highlights:
- Wooden stalls selling handmade crafts, ornaments, and seasonal gifts.
- Street performers, musicians, and artists create a lively atmosphere.
- Savor roasted chestnuts (castagne) and warm mulled wine (vin brulé).
- Carousel rides for the little ones.
Tip: Visit in the evening when the square is beautifully illuminated.

Christmas World at Villa Borghese

Starting November 30, 2024, this immersive Christmas village features light displays, cultural exhibits, and a skating rink. (Map)

Piazza di Spagna/Spanish Steps

A small Christmas Market and nativity scene set up at the bottom of the Spanish Steps.

Laghetto dell’Eur Christmas Village

Dates: 1 December to 6 January, 2025.
Location: Piazza Don Luigi Sturzo (Map)
Set around the enchanting Laghetto dell’EUR, an artificial lake competed for the 1960 Rome Olympics. The market showcases more than 100 exhibitors and their artisanal crafts, delicious food, and a picturesque ice-skating rink.

Piazza Mazzini Christmas Market

Dates: 1-29 December 2024, 9am – 7.30pm.
Location: Mercatino di piazza Mazzini, 00195 Roma RM, Italy (Map)
This market transforms a traditional Rome flea market into a festive wonderland.
What to Expect:
- Unique artisanal products, vintage finds, and antiques.
- Twinkling lights and holiday decorations.
- Cozy atmosphere perfect for browsing and gift hunting.

Cinecittà World Christmas Market

Dates: November 9, 2024, to January 6, 2025, 11am – 7pm
Check the website for specific events.
Location: Cinecittà World theme park. (Map)
Highlights:
- Festive decorations throughout the park.
- Market stalls offering seasonal treats and gifts.
- Rides, shows, and entertainment for all ages.

Auditorium Parco Della Musica

Dates: The Auditorium hosts a Christmas market alongside its ice rink.
Location: Viale Pietro de Coubertin, near the Olympic Stadium. (Map)
Attractions:
- Ice skating on the rink surrounded by music and lights.
- Christmas village with food stalls, crafts, and entertainment.
- Concerts and performances at the Auditorium.

**Merkat*: Alcazar’s Christmas Market**

Date; 20-22 December 2024, 10am-8pm
Location: Via Cardinal Merry del Val, 14 (Trastevere) (Map)
The market showcases made-in-Italy design and artisan objects, emerging talents, collectors’ favorites, vintage items, fashion and craftwork. All accompanied by aperitivo and a lot of music.

Christmas Magic in Rome

As you wander Rome’s cobblestone streets, inhale the aroma of roasted chestnuts, and admire the ancient architecture, you’ll feel the enchantment of Christmas. Don’t forget to capture the moments and share them with your loved ones. Buon Natale! 🎅🌟🇮🇹

References:

19 Best and Magical Things to Do in Rome at Christmas 2023 (romeactually.com)

This year’s coolest Christmas markets in Rome and surroundings

Other Things You Can Do

Castel Sant’Angelo
with Reserved Ticket

Discover the history of this mausoleum-turned-museum with skip-the-line, hosted access. Located on the right bank of the Tiber only a short distance from the Vatican City, the Castel Sant’Angelo is an ancient fortress with centuries of history.

Built in 135 AD for the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the building has played an important part in Rome’s architectural history. Climb the spiral staircase to reach the Chamber of Ashes where a number of historical figures were incarcerated, before continuing up to visit the Papal Residence. Finish your experience with a panoramic view over Rome and the River Tiber from the castle terrace. A great opportunity to take some photos of the Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge, also known as the Bridge of Angels.

Click here for some history on the Castel.

Leonardo Interactive Museum

Step inside the creative mind of Leonardo Da Vinci with skip-the-line entrance to the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum in Rome. Your admission ticket offers unlimited access, so you can spend as long you like exploring the exhibitions and admiring Leonardo’s Machines, created from the famous Da Vinci Codes. (Directions)

Lunch or Dinner Near the Pantheon

Bistro Tabaccheria di Rienzo (map)

Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice 2024
(review)

Stop and enjoy the food, and the service. Tell Luigi that Vincenco from Cincinnati sent you and said hello!

And if you need WiFi, Luige has it!
SSID: Caffe Di Rienzo Guest
PWD: bistropantheon

Rome, IT

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Weather in December

December, the first month of the winter in Rome, is still a cold month, with an average temperature ranging between min 25.7°F and 36°F.

Precipitation

In December, the rain falls for 5.7 days. Throughout December, 0.75″ of precipitation is accumulated. Snow falls for 6.3 days, with typically accumulated 0.94″.