Immortalized by poets and framed by legendary historians, Rome is a city that never fails to enchant its visitors – even at the chillier times of the year! So as you dust off your winter attire in preparation for your Roman holiday, allow us to be your guide. Here’s fashioning you a perfect itinerary to experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ even in January while navigating the crisp weather and Rome’s tantalizing winter food offerings.
Rome in January is indeed a magical sight, cloaked in cool, clear weather, with temperatures ranging from a high of 13 degrees Celsius (54°F) to an invigorating low of 4 degrees Celsius (37°F), meaning you’ll definitely be treading on the chilly side of the spectrum. But what about rain? You can expect an average of 10 rainy days, but fear not, it often adds to the charm as sightseeing against a rainy backdrop has its own unique flavor.
| Average high °C (°F) | Average low °C (°F) | Rainy days |
| 13°C (54°F) | 4°C (37°F) | 10 |
What to Wear in Rome in January
Dressing for January in Rome is all about the art of layering. Start with a base layer of thermal wear, followed by a mid-layer such as a sweater or thermal shirt. The final flourish? Get yourself a good-quality winter coat that will keep you toasty while you’re busy exploring the streets of Rome. It wouldn’t hurt to have an umbrella or a rain-resistant jacket either, for those sporadic rain showers Rome throws your way. For footwear, comfortable and warm boots are a must to tread the cobbled city-scapes. But, don’t forget to pack a touch of style too in your attire – after all, you’re visiting one of the world’s major fashion hubs!
Winter Delights: Foods to Warm your Heart in Rome
Italian cuisine is renowned for its seasonal produce, and Rome’s winter offerings are legendary. Dive into the warm world of ‘Zuppa di lenticchie’, a savory lentil stew, or the ‘Pasta e fagioli’, a thick pasta and bean soup. If you’re a seafood lover, January is a fantastic time for shellfish in Rome. Don’t miss trying ‘Spaghetti alle vongole’, spaghetti with clams!
As for fruits and vegetables, Rome showcases the best of the season. Expect fresh citrus fruits like oranges, kiwis, and lemons, and vegetables like radicchio and fennel bulb. ‘Carciofi alla romana’, Roman-style artichokes, a classic Roman winter dish is an absolute must-try!
Celebrate Winter: Festivals in Rome in January
Capodanno – New Year’s Day (January 1st)
The new year celebration starts on New Year’s Eve with music concerts and fireworks in various locations like Piazza del Popolo and the Colosseum. January 1st, known as Capodanno, is a national holiday, with people often continuing the bliss of the previous night’s celebrations.
Festa Della Befana – Epiphany (January 6th)
Epiphany, occurring twelve days after Christmas, holds special significance in Rome. The city comes alive with the legend of ‘La Befana,’ a broom-riding witch who, as per tradition, flies over rooftops to fill children’s stockings with treats. Piazza Navona hosts a vibrant market, where vendors sell sweets, toys, and Befana-related souvenirs.
Ottaviano di San Pietro (January 7th)
The Ottaviano di San Pietro celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ. The primary venue for this celebration is the Vatican, specifically, the St. Peter’s Basilica which becomes a hive of ecclesiastical activity. The Pope himself holds a mass here, making it a significant event for Roman Catholics.
Birth of Rome’s Patron Saints – Saints Peter and Paul (January 18th and 25th)
The birthdays of Rome’s patron saints, Saints Peter and Paul, are celebrated on the 18th and 25th of January respectively. While not marked by grand festivities, these dates hold historical significance and are often marked by religious observances.
Altar of the Fatherland Celebrations (January 27th)
On this day, Rome commemorates the end of Holocaust atrocities. The Altar of the Fatherland, also known as Il Vittoriano, hosts a series of events paying homage to the victims of the Holocaust.
Answering Your Queries: All You Need to Know About Rome in January
Is the Colosseum busy in January?
January is considered the low season for tourism in Rome, which means the Colosseum and other attractions are typically less crowded than in peak months.
Is it worth visiting Rome in winter?
Absolutely! Although winter brings lower temperatures, Rome is majestic in its winter attire. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy popular sights at a leisurely pace and experience the city’s unique charm.
Is it worth going to Rome in January?
Yes, it definitely is! January in Rome is less crowded, the queues for attractions are notably shorter, and you can savor the authentic atmosphere of the city.
What is Rome’s coldest month?
Usually, the coldest month in Rome is January.
Is the Vatican busy in January?
Similar to the Colosseum, the Vatican is less busy in January compared to peak tourist season. This can make visiting landmarks such as the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica more comfortable and enjoyable.
Does Rome get snow?
Snow is rare in Rome. When it does occur, it’s usually very light.
Rome in January wears a different kind of allure in its crisp air, quiet grandeur, and winter treats. Plan your wardrobe meticulously, savor the seasonal cuisine, and immerse yourself in the events to experience the Eternal City in all its winter glory. After all, a city like Rome deserves to be seen and appreciated in every season, in every shade. So, grab your winter coats and dive into the magic of Rome in January!
