Does Rome Shut Down for Christmas?
Christmas is a magical time of the year, filled with joy, laughter, and festivities. If you happen to find yourself in Rome during this time, you may be wondering if the city shuts down or if there are still things to see and do. Let’s explore what happens in the Eternal City during the holiday season.
Traditions in Rome
Rome has a long-standing tradition of celebrating Christmas with great enthusiasm. The holiday season officially begins on December 8th, with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, a public holiday in Italy. From this day onwards, you will notice festive decorations adorning the streets of Rome.
Piazza Navona is one of the main attractions during Christmas in Rome. It transforms into a bustling market called Piazza Navona Christmas Market, where you can find an array of stalls selling crafts, gifts, and delicious Italian delicacies.
Churches and Midnight Mass
Rome is home to numerous stunning churches that play a significant role during the Christmas season. The most famous church, St. Peter’s Basilica at Vatican City, holds a special Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve conducted by the Pope himself. This mass attracts thousands of people from all over the world.
If you wish to attend this grand event, it’s important to plan ahead as tickets are limited and require prior reservation.
Public Transport and Services
Rome does not shut down completely for Christmas; however, there are some changes in public transport schedules and services.
Buses: On December 25th and 26th, buses in Rome follow a reduced schedule with fewer routes operating throughout the city. It’s advisable to check the updated schedules in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Metro: The metro in Rome also operates on a reduced schedule during Christmas. On December 25th, the metro opens at 8:30 am and closes at 1:00 pm. On December 26th, it operates from 5:30 am until midnight.
Shops and Restaurants: While some shops and restaurants may close on December 25th, many establishments remain open during the holiday season. In fact, it is common for Romans to dine out on Christmas Day, enjoying traditional festive meals with family and friends.
Tourist Attractions
Rome’s famous tourist attractions such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican Museums stay open during Christmas; however, it’s important to note that they may operate on reduced hours or have specific closures on certain days. It is recommended to check the opening hours and closures beforehand.
Tips for Visiting Rome During Christmas
- Plan your itinerary in advance and be aware of any changes in schedules or closures
- Dress warmly as Rome can get chilly during winter
- Experience the local traditions by visiting markets and attending Mass in churches
- Savor traditional Italian Christmas delicacies like panettone and torrone
- Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere by joining locals in celebrating this joyous time of year
In conclusion, while Rome does not shut down completely for Christmas, there are some changes in schedules and services. However, there is still plenty to see and do during this magical time of year. Embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy all that Rome has to offer!