Christmas time in Italy is rich with tradition and unsurpassed charm. If you've never been to this part of Europe, the weeks building up to Christmas Day and on toward the Feast of the Epiphany (Jan. 6) offer an exciting initiation to the Italy's spirit. And if you're looking to revisit for a second or third trip but want a fresh perspective, consider the holiday season this time around. But whether you're old hat at European travel or still clutching your Fodor's guidebook, stick to the sights and sounds of a Roman holiday this year for something altogether unforgettable.
Atop your list of places to experience while in Rome is St. Peter's Square for the Papal Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and the Christmas Day reading of the Pope's Christmas message. St. Peter's Square consists of long colonnades and a crowd of statues, 140 saints created by various artists, surrounding a towering obelisk and magnificent twin fountains. The square demonstrates the design work of the Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, arguably one of the greatest sculptors of his time. During the holiday season, a life-size nativity scene and the Vatican's larger-than-life Christmas tree, aglow with sparkling lights and silver and gold ornaments, enhance Bernini's work.
While the tradition of erecting Christmas trees during the holidays is not necessarily an Italian practice, you will spot some rather large evergreens towering over Rome during the holiday season. Piazza Venezia, the Colosseum and the Museums on the Capitoline Hill offer some of the city's more spectacular presentations. And a Menorah near Bernini's Triton Fountain is lit during Hanukkah, representing Rome's large Jewish population.
Grab a hot chocolate to go and a torrone or maybe biscotti at one of the many cafes along Piazza Navona before heading off to find the nostalgic Christmas Market. There you can shop a vast selection of stands offering an assortment of holiday treats, exceptional decorations and unique gifts and souvenirs. Along with its own unique nativity scene, the Christmas Market offers a carousel and the occasional visit by Babbo Natale, Italy's Father Christmas.
Wander any of Rome's main shopping districts during the holiday season, and you'll encounter streets lined with tiny sparkling lights, jovial crowds and the cheerful sounds of Christmas music played by roving musicians. Window-shopping turns sight-seeing in December as many of Rome's shops exhibit elaborate holiday displays in their storefront windows. There is the Bohemian spirit of the Trastevere, but for a touch of Rome's higher-end shops, including the Ferrari flagship store and Swarovski Crystal, try the Via del Corso in the Piazza di Spagna.
The Piazza di Spagna, or Spanish Square, is home to the famous Spanish Steps and more of Bernini's work - Fontana della Barcaccia. An exhibition of Rome's charm and elegance, the square serves up a wealth of holiday spirit, offering an ice-skating rink and the piazza's own quaint Christmas market. Fully furnished apartment rentals around the piazza offer comfortable accommodations within walking distance of Rome's best attractions. Or treat yourself to Italian luxury at the Hotel Stendhal, Spagna Royal Suites or the Hotel Tiziano
Tourist season is busiest from May through September and tapers off thereafter, but expect the crowds to pick up again as Christmas Day nears. Though December temperatures are typically mild compared to other European cities, rain showers do find their way into the otherwise sunny forecast. Split the difference with a steaming cup of hot chocolate, your favorite coffee drink or perhaps a vin brulé (heated, spiced wine), a tasty winter treat during any weather.
Rest awhile after strolling the shops of Via Condotti and enjoy a coffee granita at Caffé Greco. Sip a cup of Rome's best espresso at Caffé S. Eustachio off Piazza della Rotonda near the Pantheon. And don't miss the nostalgic piano bar Caffé Doney or the ambiance of Café de Paris, both located on the famous Via Veneto.
While you may grow weary exploring the sites and streets of Rome, you will never go hungry strolling through this great city. There are restaurants on practically every street corner; however, settling on the perfect holiday treat might prove difficult. Save yourself the trouble and enjoy classic Italian cooking at Fortunato al Pantheon, fresh homemade pasta at Ditirambo, unique Tuscan selections at Toscano or the spaghetti primavera at L"Archeologia. These eateries will set your taste buds off in the right direction and get your feet moving once more through the sights and streets of an unforgettable holiday.
