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- Colosseum
- Vatican Museums
- St. Peter's Basilica
- Castel Sant Angelo
- Rome Pantheon
- Roman Catacombs Tour
- Borghese Gallery
- Bioparco Rome
- Palazzo Barberini
- Musei Capitolini
- Leonardo da Vinci Museum
- Trevi Fountain Tours
- Altare della Patria
- Rome Underground Tours
- Mamertine Prison
- Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
- Leonardo Express Rome
- Rome: Ostia Antica
Contents
Is January a good time to visit Rome?
January in Rome is typically a low season, but due to the Jubilee year, expect record crowds and higher prices for accommodation, flights, and dining. Planning ahead is essential to navigate the busy period and make the most of festive events like New Year's and La Befana celebrations.
How’s the weather in Rome in January?
January in Rome is quite chilly, with temperatures averaging 4-15°C. Expect occasional rain, and pack warm clothing. Snowfall is rare but possible during colder spells. Here’s a quick overview:
- Average Temperature: High - 14-15°C Low - 3-4°C
- Average Rainfall: 2.2 inches
- Daily Wind Speed: 7.7mph
- Temperature of the sea: 15°C
Best Things to do in Rome in January
New Year celebrations
Venue: City-wide
Dates: December 31 - January 1
New Year's Day in Rome offers the best of everything: great restaurants, breathtaking views, free concerts, and fireworks to celebrate the end of the old year and welcome the new year.
Blessing of the Animals Ceremony
Date: January 17
Location: St. Peter's Square
Celebrate the feast of St. Anthony the Abbot in Rome with a ceremony at St. Peter’s Square. The day includes a Mass at the Basilica and a parade led by a police band, where farmers and pet owners bring animals to receive blessings.
La Befana
Date: January 6
To mark the end of Christmas, Epiphany or La Befana Epiphany is celebrated on January 6. Children receive sweets and small gifts on this day, and pilgrims in medieval clothing carry symbolic gifts to the Vatican for the Pope.
Saldi sales
For all shopaholics, January is the lucky month in Rome when Saldi Estivi or the sales of Saldi happen. The sales start around the beginning of January and last until mid-February during the winter.
Serie A matches
Venue: Stadio Olimpico
Dates: January 5 & January 14, 2025
If you're in Rome this January, don't miss the chance to catch AS Roma in action at the Stadio Olimpico! On January 5, they will face SS Lazio in a Serie A match, followed by another game against Genoa on January 14.
Know more
Spencer Sutherland concert
Venue: Teatro Studio Borgna, Auditorium Parco della Musica, Rome, Italy
Date: January 28, 2025
Singer-songwriter Spencer Sutherland will take the stage with a mix of fan favorites and new hits, promising a perfect musical experience for rock and pop fans in January.
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Top attractions to visit in Rome in January
1. Roman Colosseum
City Landmark
In the city center stands the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, attracting millions of tourists. January is a quieter month, allowing you to enjoy this marvel and its atmosphere without the crowds.
January timings: 8:30am – 7:15pm
from €21
2. St. Peter's Basilica
Historic Basilica
This 136-meter-high architectural masterpiece is a must-see in Rome. Here, you can admire Michelangelo's La Pietra and enjoy the popular activity of climbing the Dome of St. Peter for breathtaking views of the city.
January timings: 8am - 5:30pm
Tickets From €27
3. Vatican Museum
Museum
Experience a captivating journey through history at the Vatican Museums, home to priceless art collections and significant archaeological sites. Discover the hidden gems of the museums, including the Gallery of Maps and the Raphael Rooms.
January timings:
Friday - Saturday: 8:30am–10:30pm
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am–6:30pm
Closed: Sunday
from €27.50
4. Sistine Chapel
Historic Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is a must-see in Rome, showcasing Michelangelo’s iconic ceiling frescoes, including The Creation of Adam. It’s part of the Vatican Museums and hosts the papal conclave.
January timings: 9:00am - 4:00pm
from €27.50
5. Palazzo Barberini
City Landmark | Art Gallery
Palazzo Barberini houses the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica. Highlights include Pietro da Cortona’s fresco, The Triumph of Divine Providence, and the Triton Fountain and Fontana delle Api.
January timings: Tuesdays to Sundays: 10:00am to 6:00pm
6. Roman Catacombs
Historic Catacombs
If you wish to step into the darker and spookier side of this eternal city, the Catacombs are the place for you. The underground tunnels have a honeycomb-style burial niche on the walls and ancient artwork.
January timings: 9:00am - 12:00pm | 4:00pm - 6:00pm
from €48
7. Castel Sant Angelo
Fortress | Architecture Landmark
Castel Sant'Angelo, one of Rome's most recognized monuments, is located on the Tiber River. Originally a mausoleum, it has served various purposes and now houses the National Museum of Castel Sant'Angelo.
January timings: 9:00am - 7:30pm
from €25
8. St Peter’s square
City Square
St Peter’s Square is located in front of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. On the Day of The Kings, you can observe a magnificent parade, which represents the three wise men and baby Jesus.
9. Nero’s Domus Aurea
Historic Structure
Emperor Nero’s palace, Nero’s Domus Aurea, dates back to the first century AD and has been regarded as one of the most lavish buildings ever built. Stroll through the corridors of the institution and marvel at the engraved walls.
10. Capitone Hill
Sightseeing | Tourist Hotspot
There’s no better way to experience ancient Rome than from the top of its historical seven hills. Here, you'll find Michelangelo's stunning Piazza del Campidoglio, one of Rome's most impressive squares.
11. Borghese Villa
City Landmark
Villa Borghese features neoclassical and 19th-century buildings by Cardinal Scipione Borghese. With its beautiful gardens and attractions, it’s a captivating green space. Enjoy stunning art at the Borghese Gallery or take a boat ride to experience Rome's natural beauty.
from €21
12. The Pantheon
City Landmark
The Pantheon, devoted to Roman Gods and Goddesses, features intricate details and timeless beauty. Its dome has an oculus that lets in light and drains rainwater, creating an intriguing mystery.
January timings: 9:00am to 7:00pm
from €5Know before you visit Rome in January
Travel essentials
What to wear
Things to pack
Transport
Stay
Food
- Time Zone: GMT +1
- Currency: Euro | €
- Country code: +39
- Emergency numbers: 113 (Police), 118 (Ambulance), 115 (Fire Department)
- For warmth in Rome’s chilly January, pack thermals, woolen cardigans, and sweaters, along with gloves and scarves to protect from cold winds.
- Tights or stockings are recommended if you plan to wear skirts or dresses, adding an extra layer of warmth.
- A water-resistant jacket is also essential in case of rain.
- Carry an umbrella as it can rain unexpectedly.
- A type E or type C charger.
- A water-resistant bag, maps, and a travel guide are a must.
- By metro - The easiest and fastest method of traveling in Rome would be taking the Rome metro network. The lines are A, B - plus B1 - and C. At Roma Termini, lines A and B meet; line C is automated and intersects line A at San Giovanni.
- By tram - Overground rail transport in Rome includes tramways, suburban and urban lines that serve the city of Rome, and an express train to Fiumicino Airport. The majority of Regional State Railways offer primarily suburban service.
- By bus - A comprehensive bus network is available in Rome, with three trolley bus routes already in operation and more being built.
Before you leave for Rome, make sure you’ve arranged your stay properly. Here are a few hotel options to suit every budget:
Luxury hotels: Lifestyle Suites, Villa Spalleti Travelli, JK Place Roma
Mid-range hotels: Aenea Superior Inn, Relais Giulia, Residenza Cellini
Budget hotels: Hotel Paba, Hotel Bed Roma, Residenza Vatican Suite
What to eat in Rome in January
- Cotechino e lenticchie: This is a traditional Italian New Year’s dish of spiced pork sausage (cotechino) served with lentils. The lentils symbolize prosperity, while the savory, slow-cooked sausage adds warmth and flavor to winter festivities.
- Pasta alla carbonara: A classic Roman dish made with pasta, guanciale (cured pork cheek), eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. It’s a creamy, savory, and rich comfort food beloved across Italy and beyond.
- Coda alla vaccinara: A hearty Roman winter dish made with oxtail stewed in a rich sauce of tomatoes, celery, carrots, and spices. Its tender meat and flavorful broth make it a perfect cold-weather comfort food.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Rome in January
What can I do on New Year's Day in Rome?
Attend Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, stroll around Piazza Navona, or enjoy concerts in Piazza del Popolo on New Year’s Day. Many attractions have limited hours, so make sure to check before visiting.
What are some fun activities to do in Rome in January?
Go ice skating at the Auditorium Parco della Musica, take a food tour, or explore the Roman Catacombs for a quieter experience.
Are there any off-beat activities can I do in January?
Explore the Appian Way, visit the Orange Garden for city views, or tour underground sites like the Basilica of San Clemente and Domus Aurea.
What are some less touristy places to visit?
Visit Villa Doria Pamphili for a peaceful walk or explore the Protestant Cemetery and the Baths of Caracalla, which are quieter in winter.
Is it expensive to visit Rome in January?
Visiting Rome in January is generally more affordable than peak tourist seasons. However, prices tend to rise around New Year’s.