January in Rome is cold but thrilling – perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet after the holiday chaos. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about experiencing the Eternal City during winter season: from weather patterns and essential clothing, to the top attractions and cultural exhibitions, plus those soul-warming winter dishes that make the chilly days worthwhile. If you want to experience Rome like a local – with fewer crowds and more authentic atmosphere – January is your golden month.
The first month of the year offers excellent timing for visiting Rome. What you should know upfront: daylight hours are limited, temperatures drop significantly, and once the holiday festivities wrap up, the city gradually settles back into its regular daily rhythm.
When visiting Rome in January, expect cold weather conditions and occasional rainfall. Don’t let this discourage you though: Rome has prepared special surprises specifically for its January visitors!
January stands out as one of the few months when Rome isn’t overrun with tourists. After Epiphany (see details below), crowds thin out dramatically, making this the optimal time to explore some of Rome’s most popular landmarks without enduring hours-long queues or feeling packed like sardines in a can.
If you love shopping for deals, January will delight you since this is prime sale season throughout the city.
Important to know: when planning your trip, don’t forget to check official government sources for current entry requirements and travel regulations that could impact your journey.
Rome’s January Weather: What to Expect
January ranks as Rome’s coldest winter month. During this period, temperatures drop significantly, daylight hours are at their shortest, and any outdoor activities – including sightseeing at major attractions – will require you to bundle up in warm winter coats or jackets, scarves, and gloves for comfort.
Average temperatures in Rome during January hover around 8°C (46°F), typically ranging between 3°C and 13°C (37°F to 55°F). Rome typically experiences about seven rainy days throughout January.
Rome gets surprisingly humid, and while it can’t compare to the harsh winter conditions you’d find in, say, New York City or Northern Europe, the cold still has a way of seeping into your bones and chilling you thoroughly.
That’s why proper preparation for low temperatures during January becomes essential. Rome rarely sees snowfall, but if it does happen, January would be the month. This remains a rare occurrence and usually amounts to little more than a light dusting rather than anything substantial. Therefore, you won’t need specialized snow gear for Rome in January. Instead, invest in good waterproof footwear for those inevitable muddy puddles!
How to Dress for Rome’s Cold January Weather
Winter clothing becomes absolutely essential in Rome during January. Indoor heating keeps interior spaces comfortable, but it’s never hot or even warm enough to shed your sweaters completely, so remember to dress appropriately in layers.
In short, if you’re traveling to Rome during January, you’ll need to pack these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes that are waterproof (ankle boots, knee-high boots, unlined options work best)
- Warm socks and tights/pantyhose for extra insulation
- Long pants (denim or wool materials are ideal choices)
- Both short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops for layering flexibility
- Warm sweaters (wool blend recommended for best warmth)
- Winter coat (ideally waterproof or water-resistant), scarf, hat, and insulated gloves.
Key Public Holidays and Tourist Impacts in January Rome
Most of January qualifies as low season in Rome with one significant exception: the first week of the month. During this week, two major events occur that draw large crowds of visitors and will impact your sightseeing plans at Rome’s major attractions.
- January 1st: New Year’s Day is a national holiday in Rome. This affects operating hours for several museums and major attractions, including the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Borghese Gallery.
- January 6th: Epiphany is a public holiday throughout Rome. On this day, the city celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men, and Italian children welcome the magical visitor – La Befana (the Christmas witch who brings gifts)! On January 6th, museums remain open, but expect significantly larger crowds. January 6th marks the final day of Italy’s extended Christmas vacation period and officially ends Rome’s winter tourist season.
Best Things to Do in Rome in January
The absolute best experiences Rome offers in January combine world-class sightseeing, exceptional shopping opportunities, and unforgettable culinary adventures that showcase the city’s winter specialties.
Important to know: while significantly less crowded than peak season months, January still attracts considerable tourist numbers to Rome, so make sure you book access to the most popular attractions and secure your accommodation well in advance to guarantee prime spots and avoid disappointment.
Catch the Final Days of Rome’s Christmas Markets and Nativity Displays
The first week of January still captures Rome’s festive holiday spirit, giving you a final chance to immerse yourself in the city’s magical seasonal atmosphere. During the week between January 1st and 6th, you can catch the tail end of Rome’s Christmas markets, plus this represents your final opportunity to witness the elaborate Nativity scenes displayed in front of the Vatican and throughout many of Rome’s most beautiful churches.
If you’re visiting Rome during early January, I highly recommend reading this guide alongside my comprehensive tips for visiting Rome during Christmas here, so you can maximize every moment of Rome’s extended holiday season and experience the city’s most magical time of year.
How to Visit the Colosseum in January: Tips and Ticket Types
The Colosseum becomes absolutely fantastic to visit during January. During this time, you’ll practically have the arena to yourself, and while rain can certainly make your visit less comfortable, the complete absence of crushing crowds more than compensates for any weather-related discomfort.
I’ve detailed all the different Colosseum ticket options here.
For quick reference, my recommended tickets are outlined in the table below:
1. Standard entry ticket from Parco Colosseo/Coopculture (Colosseum official ticket office). Price doesn’t include arena floor access, non-refundable, currently available for purchase only 1 month before your visit date.
2. Combined Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill entry ticket – entrance ticket from Colosseum ticket office, includes arena floor access (but not Colosseum underground levels) plus access to select Forum sites, non-refundable.
3. VIP ticket including arena floor access, first and second Colosseum levels, plus underground chambers access, along with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill entry. Available through Parco Colosseo/Coopculture (Colosseum official ticket office). These tickets are also non-refundable. Can only be purchased 1 month before your visit, without live guide included.
4. English-language guided tour of Colosseum underground levels + Roman Forum and Palatine Hill access. Tickets purchased through Parco Colosseo/Coopculture (Colosseum official ticket office). These tickets also cannot be refunded, purchase availability only 1 month before your visit date.
5. Skip-the-line access tickets for Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill. Sold through GetYourGuide, fully refundable and cancellable. Access limited to select zones (arena floor included). Bookable only 1 month before your visit. No tour guide included.
6. Guided tour from LivTours, comprehensive inside Colosseum tour with professional guide. Bookable several months in advance. More expensive than tickets listed above, available only at specific time slots.
7. Family-friendly Colosseum and Ancient Rome tour for children – guided tour from Kids Raphael. Includes main Colosseum arena floor access. Tour specifically designed to engage and entertain children. Does not include underground area access.
8. Gladiator-themed Colosseum tour for kids and families – guided experience from GreyLine, includes main arena area of Colosseum, child-focused interactive experience, does not include Colosseum underground zone access.
8. Underground and arena Colosseum tour plus Ancient Forum and Palatine Hill access.
9. Guided tour from LivTours, includes Colosseum underground sections and expert-led Forum/Palatine Hill tour. Tours conducted in small groups and cover the entire Parco Colosseo archaeological zone.
Important to know! While I absolutely love the Roman Forum, I don’t recommend visiting during January unless you have a sunny day (or you’re a passionate history enthusiast, in which case the visit becomes mandatory regardless of weather conditions!).
At its summit sits Piazza del Campidoglio – one of Rome’s most stunning squares. Designed by Michelangelo himself, this magnificent plaza is dominated by the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, one of Rome’s most impressive sculptural masterpieces, and features the entrance to the Capitoline Museums, which house some of the city’s finest art collections.
During January, the Forum becomes quite chilly, but the panoramic views from this vantage point offer one of the most powerful ways to truly feel the enchantment and grandeur of Ancient Rome.
>>> You can read everything about Capitoline Hill, what to see and how to get there in my comprehensive Capitoline Hill guide for Rome <<<
Explore Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Without the Crowds
Significantly reduced crowd levels make January an excellent time to visit the normally packed Vatican Museums and the world-famous Sistine Chapel. If possible, try to avoid the first week of the month when holiday crowds linger.
If you have no other alternative, consider investing in early morning tour tickets: with these, you can experience the Sistine Chapel in near-complete solitude and truly appreciate Michelangelo’s masterpiece without distraction!
I think during January it’s much better to view the Forum from above, for example from Piazza del Campidoglio (see below).
Why Capitoline Hill Offers the Best Ancient Rome Winter Views
Capitoline Hill (Campidoglio) stands as one of Rome’s seven historic hills and represents an absolutely essential destination for any visitor.
January offers perfect timing to visit St. Peter’s Square and the free areas of Vatican City, including the breathtaking St. Peter’s Basilica (featuring Michelangelo’s stunning “Pietà”), all of which remain accessible without purchasing museum tickets.
Indoor Winter Escape: Touring Borghese Gallery and Gardens
Borghese Gallery ranks among Rome’s most exquisite art museums and represents an absolute must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. Nestled within the beautiful Borghese Gardens, a sprawling patrician park in central Rome, Borghese Gallery houses masterpieces by legendary artists including Bernini, Canova, and Raphael, creating a true feast for the eyes. The gallery’s indoor setting makes it perfect for rainy Roman afternoons when outdoor sightseeing becomes less appealing.
I highly recommend planning your visit here, then crossing through the gardens to treat yourself to a warm beverage with spectacular views at Casina Valadier – a panoramic restaurant and café overlooking the Pincio terrace, which offers one of Rome’s most stunning citywide vistas.
Advance ticket purchase for the gallery is absolutely mandatory: you can reserve your ticket here.
Discover Nero’s Hidden Palace: Exploring the Domus Aurea
Domus Aurea represents Emperor Nero’s palace and stands as one of Rome’s most fascinating archaeological sites. This imperial palace dates back to the 1st century AD, and historians describe it as the largest and most luxurious structure ever constructed in ancient times. The Domus truly is stunning, but don’t imagine a fairy-tale castle: immediately after Nero’s death, his palace was systematically destroyed and now exists as an entirely underground archaeological excavation site!
Despite its dramatic fate, Domus Aurea remains absolutely magnificent to visit. Here you’ll walk through Nero’s massive corridors, enter former entertainment halls and terraces, and marvel at the incredible artwork still preserved on its walls after nearly 2,000 years. This makes a fantastic attraction to explore during cold afternoons when you want to escape the winter weather.
Barberini Palace and Mithraeum: Underground Rome’s Religious Secrets
Art lovers absolutely cannot miss visiting the magnificent Palazzo Barberini – an elegant baroque palace that now houses the National Gallery of Ancient Art.
Designed by masters including Maderno, Bernini, and Borromini, Palazzo Barberini stands as one of Rome’s most stunning examples of baroque residential architecture and ranks among the city’s finest museums. The palace showcases incredible ceiling frescoes, masterpiece paintings, and opulent period rooms that transport visitors back to 17th-century Roman aristocratic life.
You can read everything about Palazzo Barberini and its artistic treasures here.
If you’re fascinated by Rome’s underground attractions and want to experience something truly unique, then you must plan a visit to the Barberini Mithraeum, located beneath the palace itself.
The Mithraeum represents an ancient underground chamber dedicated to worshipping Mithras – a solar deity of Iranian origin who became extremely popular in Rome during imperial times. This subterranean temple offers incredible insights into mystery religions practiced by Roman soldiers and merchants. The Mithraeum opens only on specific dates and requires guided tours conducted in Italian.
For this reason, I recommend it specifically for people with deep interests in ancient history and religions, or those wanting to discover a genuinely unusual attraction that most Rome visitors never experience!
You can read my comprehensive Barberini Mithraeum guide here.
Visiting Rome’s Piazzas: Quiet and Beautiful in January
This time of year allows you to visit all of Rome’s major squares and plazas comfortably. During January, rain and cold weather might work against you, but you’ll likely have at least several clear days perfect for exploring Rome’s most beautiful piazzas without the overwhelming summer crowds.
Some of the ones I recommend you absolutely see include:
- Piazza Navona – arguably Rome’s most beautiful square, adorned with incredible masterworks by Bernini and Borromini that showcase baroque artistry at its finest.
- Piazza del Pantheon, one of the most picturesque and atmospheric squares in the entire city
- Campo de’ Fiori, a fantastic medieval square with vibrant morning markets and evening nightlife
- Piazza di Spagna and the world-famous Spanish Steps
- Piazza di Trevi, home to the breathtaking Trevi Fountain, Rome’s most iconic fountain and an absolutely unforgettable landmark that’s perfect for photos
Here you can find >>> my complete list of Rome’s most beautiful squares and piazzas
Step Inside the Pantheon
The Pantheon ranks as one of Rome’s most celebrated attractions during every season. However, if you’re in Rome during January, you can witness with your own eyes the answer to one of the most frequently asked questions about this remarkable structure: does it actually rain inside the Pantheon?
If you happen to be in Rome on a rainy day, you can go and see for yourself how the open oculus in the dome handles precipitation. Even if the weather stays dry, you absolutely must visit this ancient temple dedicated to Roman gods and goddesses, now transformed into a functioning church that remains one of the world’s best-preserved Roman buildings.
Here you can find my practical guide for visiting the Pantheon with insider tips and historical context.
Local Rome in Winter: Secret Spots Away from Tourists
During January, when summer vacation season has ended for local residents, Roman daily life is in full swing, so as soon as you venture beyond the most popular tourist districts, you’ll discover the living, breathing heart of this ancient city.
Here you can find my recommendations for what to see in Rome off the beaten tourist path, including neighborhood gems, local markets, and authentic experiences that most visitors never discover.
Winter Sales in Rome: When and Where to Shop Smart
If you love shopping, January in Rome represents the perfect place and time for retail therapy because this is when the winter sales (saldi) take place, and during this period you can find the most incredible deals and discounts across the city.
Check out our comprehensive guide to Rome’s best shopping streets to discover the top addresses where you can score fantastic bargains on everything from Italian fashion to luxury goods.
What’s On Stage: Winter Opera and Classical Music Events in Rome
Rome boasts an excellent opera and ballet program throughout the winter season. For current performances and scheduling check the official Rome Opera website.
Music lovers should also explore the program at Auditorium Parco della Musica, a wonderful venue for music enthusiasts in the Eternal City that hosts everything from classical concerts to contemporary performances and jazz shows.
Traditional Roman Dishes to Warm Up with in January
When you’re in Rome during January, you absolutely must try all the magnificent traditional Roman and Italian dishes that perfectly complement the cooler weather.
During this season I especially recommend:
- Carbonara, Gricia, Amatriciana – warming and flavorful pasta dishes that are absolutely perfect for the slightly cooler weather during this season.
- Trippa – a hearty, warming dish for culinary adventurers willing to try traditional Roman tripe
- Supplì – fried rice balls with melting mozzarella centers, incredible traditional Roman appetizers that are crispy outside and gooey inside
- Coda alla vaccinara – oxtail stew, a rich and hearty Roman specialty perfect for cold days
- Artichokes, either fried or sautéed (carciofi alla giudia / carciofi alla Romana), represent a Roman specialty you absolutely cannot miss during winter season when they’re at peak freshness.
- Persimmons (called “Cachi” in Italian, pronounced “Kaki”) – sweet winter fruits perfect for dessert
You can find my favorite addresses for traditional Roman dishes in my comprehensive Rome foodie guide.
Rome Food Tours for January: Where to Eat and What to Taste
If you want to discover traditional Roman dishes with expert guidance, then a food tour might be exactly what you need. These are the food tours worth considering:
- Rome street food tour with local guide featuring authentic local food tastings
- Evening Trastevere tour with local food tastings in Rome’s most authentic neighborhood
- Rome tour with espresso, gelato and tiramisu tastings (gelato is delicious even in winter)!
What to See at Rome’s Top January Exhibitions and Art Shows
Rome hosts numerous exhibitions year-round, and January provides excellent timing for museum visits when crowds are lighter. One exhibition that could be entertaining to view with children is “Crazy – Madness in Contemporary Art” at Chiostro del Bramante, featuring a fun and interactive, colorful exhibition designed for both adults and children (running through January 8, 2025).
Another exhibition worth seeing focuses on Emperor Domitian in Rome – a fantastic exhibition at the Capitoline Museum running through January 29, 2025, showcasing artifacts and insights into one of Rome’s most fascinating and controversial rulers.
Hidden Museums in Rome That Are Perfect for January Visits
Rome houses many wonderful museums that remain relatively lesser-known and can provide excellent alternatives to the major museums during busy periods. Some that I particularly recommend include:
- Centrale Montemartini – a fantastic museum of ancient sculptures and mosaics housed in a former power plant, creating a unique juxtaposition of classical art and industrial architecture
- Palazzo Braschi – dedicated to the city of Rome itself (and featuring stunning views of Piazza Navona) with fascinating exhibits about Roman history and culture
- Palazzo Massimo – a fantastic museum of ancient art featuring spectacular sculptures and well-preserved frescoes that showcase Roman artistic mastery
Rome’s Most Beautiful Churches to Visit During Winter
Visiting churches ranks among the best activities in Rome during any season, but winter makes it exceptionally pleasant (and convenient!). Church access remains completely free, and the buildings themselves are absolutely stunning while providing perfect shelter from rain and cold weather.
Some that I love and highly recommend visiting include Santa Prassede (featuring breathtaking Byzantine mosaics), San Luigi dei Francesi (housing magnificent Caravaggio masterpieces), and Santa Maria della Vittoria (home to Bernini’s ecstatic “Ecstasy of Saint Teresa”), but honestly: whenever you spot a church in Rome, peek inside, because there’s an excellent chance it contains treasures worth stopping for!
Here you can find my complete list of Rome’s most beautiful Catholic churches with detailed descriptions and visiting tips.
Exploring Rome’s Catacombs: Best Cold-Weather Archaeological Tour
Rome’s catacombs are underground Christian burial sites dating from the earliest centuries of the Christian era. These burial grounds are structured as vast networks of tunnels located beneath the modern city, offering fascinating insights into early Christian life and death practices.
Rome has several catacombs open to visitors, and the one I most recommend visiting is San Callisto, which ranks among the largest and most impressive in Rome. The guided tours provide incredible historical context about early Christianity and showcase remarkable ancient artwork and inscriptions.
Family Travel Guide: What to Do with Kids in Rome in January
Here you can find an extensive list of child-friendly activities in Rome that will keep young travelers engaged and excited.
These are my favorite family-friendly activities to enjoy in Rome during January that work well for various ages and interests.
1. Experience the local tradition of La Befana – Italian children welcome a magical visitor on January 6th: a witch called “La Befana.” This is an old woman who travels by broomstick during the night between January 5th and 6th, bringing candy to good children (and coal to naughty ones), which she leaves in long stockings hung up specially for her visit.
Locals absolutely love her, and throughout Rome you can see stockings stuffed with various treats in preparation for her arrival. The tradition dates back centuries and represents Italy’s unique twist on the Christmas gift-giving season.
If you’re in Rome with children during the first week of January, you can buy a stocking and join in this beloved Italian tradition that extends the magic of the holiday season!
Visit Explora Children’s Museum
Explora serves as Rome’s dedicated children’s museum and provides a wonderful destination for families with kids. During January, this becomes an exceptionally convenient indoor option for rainy days or anytime when weather doesn’t seem suitable for extended hours in parks and outdoor attractions.
Hands-On Art for Kids: Mosaic and Painting Workshops in Rome
Indoor activities can be absolute lifesavers in Rome during winter, and one that we absolutely loved was the art class we took with the wonderful people at Arte al Sole. The one we chose focused on mosaic-making, which proves perfect for crafty children who enjoy hands-on creative projects.
Pizza Classes for Families: Cooking with Kids in Rome
On a cold January day, nothing beats being in a cozy kitchen preparing warm, delicious food. With the kids, we did exactly that by attending a local family pizza-making class, followed by enjoying our own homemade creations while learning about authentic Italian cooking techniques.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Inventions: Interactive Museum Experience
Mostra di Leonardo offers a child-friendly permanent exhibition in Rome featuring machines designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The exhibition proves fantastic for children (and adults) because it’s completely interactive, encouraging kids to engage with the exhibits and even attempt to recreate some of Leonardo’s ingenious inventions! This ranks among my favorite activities with children in Rome on cold days. You can find my complete review here.
Immersive History for Kids: Welcome to Rome Exhibition Tour
Welcome to Rome is a permanent exhibition that uses spectacular 3D light installations to showcase some of Rome’s major monuments and landmarks, demonstrating how they’ve changed and evolved throughout history.
The museum remains small, easy for children to navigate, and engaging for both kids and adults. The short film dedicated to Rome’s history is definitely worth seeing – excellent for introducing children to the different historical periods this incredible city has experienced (I bet adults will learn plenty too, it’s fantastic!)