Yes — winter is actually one of the best times to visit Rome
Rome's mild winter (8–14°C) means comfortable walking weather. The big attractions are uncrowded. Hotel prices drop 30–40%. Christmas in Rome is magical. This is a smart traveller's move.
✅ Reasons to go
- Short or zero queues at Colosseum and Vatican
- Hotel prices 30–40% lower
- Mild temperatures (8–14°C) — perfect walking weather
- Christmas decorations, presepi, and markets
- Locals are out — restaurants full of Romans, not tourists
- No heat exhaustion, no mosquitoes
❌ Reasons to skip
- Shorter days (dark by 5pm)
- Rain possible (average 8–10 rainy days/month)
- Some rooftop bars and outdoor terraces close
- Holiday closures Dec 25–26, Jan 1
- Grey skies can feel gloomy
- Fewer gelato cravings (arguably a con)
💡 Pro tip: Christmas week in Rome: midnight mass at St Peter's (free but arrive 3 hours early), the massive Piazza Navona Christmas market, and presepi (nativity scenes) in every church.
Bottom line
Winter Rome is arguably better than summer Rome. You get the same monuments, better food experiences, shorter queues, and lower prices. Bring a rain jacket and enjoy.