As the autumn leaves fade and winter whispers in the air, Rome transforms into one of Europe’s most atmospheric holiday destinations. In late 2025, the city takes on an extra glow: festive lights, seasonal markets, nativity scenes in historic churches and the energy of the 2025 Jubilee (running from 24 Dec 2024 through 6 Jan 2026) add a deeper layer of meaning and pilgrimage to a visit.
Weather-wise, expect cooler temperatures (daytime highs around 13 °C in December) and shorter daylight hours, but also fewer of the summer crowds. This means the city’s major sites feel more relaxed, and the atmosphere in the piazze is either romantic or peaceful depending on the hour.
Here are some of the best holiday experiences in Rome for November 2025, December 2025 and into January 2026, plus a detailed look at why the hop-on hop-off bus is a perfect way to enjoy them.
1) Christmas lights & immersive installations
From 22 November 2025 until 6 January 2026 the district of EUR will host the “Natal Diffuso” display: a 50-metre “Rome Eye” Ferris wheel, immersive lighting installations and lively seasonal atmosphere.
On 8 December 2025 (the feast of the Immaculate Conception) Rome’s central squares officially switch on the city-wide Christmas lights (between about 17:30 and 18:30).
Strolling along Via del Corso, Via dei Condotti, and up to the Spanish Steps at dusk is especially magical: decorations reflect off architecture, cafés light up, and the air hints at both tradition and festivity.
2) Christmas markets & seasonal fairs
The event calendar for Rome from late November to January features several key installations:
- Christmas World 2025 at Villa Borghese (Viale del Galoppatoio) runs 29 November 2025 to 11 January 2026.
- The large theme-park event of Natale a Cinecittà World 2025 at Cinecittà World runs 8 November 2025 to 6 January 2026.
- Traditional nativity fairs and outdoor markets spring up across historic squares, around the area of Piazza Navona (which is famed for its holiday market).
These markets are ideal for gift-hunting: artisan ornaments, nativity-figures (“presepi”), roasted chestnuts and mulled wine cups all contribute to the festive mood.
3) Visit historic churches and nativity scenes
One of Rome’s most beloved winter traditions is exploring the many beautifully crafted nativity scenes housed in historic churches. In December the city noticeably slows after dark, inviting a contemplative walk through the lit portals of the basilicas.
Because the 2025 Jubilee is ongoing, pilgrim energy is elevated, making stops like St. Peter’s Basilica, Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano especially poignant.
It’s wise to check opening hours (especially around 24–26 Dec) as some sites may shift schedules.
4) Evening walks, city viewpoints & festive evenings
As the sun sets early, look for vantage points like the hill of Gianicolo (Janiculum) where you can see Rome’s skyline lit up in the evening.
A stroll after dark near the Spanish Steps, or over the Tiber’s bridges into Trastevere, offers atmospheric beauty: the city’s ancient stones softly illuminated, seasonal lights shimmering, and fewer daytime crowds.
For a special night activity, consider an evening. The hop-on hop-off buses (see below) often operate into evening and offer a unique perspective on Rome.
5) Museums, sightseeing with fewer crowds
Late November and early December are wonderful for sightseeing, the crowds are thinner than peak summer, yet the city retains its energy.
Visiting major attractions before the holiday rush ensures a more relaxed and deeper experience. The bus tours (see below) make hopping between sites easy.
Because of the Jubilee, some areas may have increased activity (pilgrimage groups) but overall the winter period remains manageable.
6) New Year’s & Epiphany (6 January 2026) ambience
As December turns into January, Rome’s celebrations don’t immediately fade, festive lights may still sparkle, and landmarks such as the Christmas tree at St Peter’s Square remain up into early January.
Epiphany (6 Jan) is a widely-celebrated moment in Italy: for families, for locals, and for those wanting to experience local holiday culture beyond the mainstream.
If you’ll be in Rome through early January, enjoy the post-holiday calm, some hotel/restaurant deals, and still-lit monuments.
Why the hop-on hop-off bus (City Sightseeing Roma) is a must this season
One of the most convenient ways to see Rome during this festive period is using the open-top double-deck bus tour offered by City Sightseeing Roma. Their integrated tickets (24h/48h/72h) allow you to hop off at major stops and explore at your own pace.
Key advantages:
- Flexibility: You can board, disembark, wander in a piazza, church or market, then catch the next bus when convenient.
- Comfort: Winter weather may be damp or chilly; the bus gives you an easy way to move between warm/hot cafés, attractions and different districts.
- Orientation: Especially if it’s your first time in Rome in winter, the bus helps you cover major landmarks (Colosseum, Roman Forums, Piazza Navona, Vatican area) quickly and comfortably.
- Evening light experience: The festive lights make Rome extra photogenic; the bus allows you to ride a circuit after sunset and capture panoramic views from the upper deck.
- Audio-guide commentary in multiple languages: You’ll learn stories and insights as you ride, useful for enriching the holiday visits.
