Rome in January

Things to Do in Rome in January

Explore Colosseum, Discover Vatican Museums, Visit Roman Forum, Explore Palatine Hill, Admire St. Peter’s Basilica, Take a Trastevere Neighbourhood Walk, Checkout Borghese Palace & Villa Borghese, Visit Roman Catacombs, Admire the beautiful Trevi Fountain and Checkout Spanish Steps.

Rome is a beautiful city anytime of year, but visiting in January has its own unique charms. For starters, the Christmas decorations are still up, so the city has a festive atmosphere. From cosy cafes to world-class art galleries, there's plenty to keep you occupied - not to mention the excellent food and wine on offer. January is also one of the quieter months in terms of tourism, so you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed vacation.

And, prices for hotels and other attractions are typically lower in January than they are during peak tourist season.Though the average January temperature in Rome is a mild 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it can get chilly— particularly at night, be sure to pack a coat, hat, and scarf.

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Essential Information About Rome in January

01

Weather in Rome During the Months of January

The Mediterranean climate of Rome in January is mild but there can be chilly days and evenings with the occasional cold snap.

The average high temperature in Rome during January is 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius), while the average low is 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius).

January is one of Rome's drier months, with an average rainfall of only 3 inches (76 millimetres) of precipitation throughout the month.

However, this precipitation can take the form of rain, snow, or a mix of both, so again, layers are key to being prepared for all eventualities.

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02

What to Pack for Rome in January

It's always a good idea to pack a mix of light and heavyweight clothing that you can layer depending on the conditions.

A warm coat is essential.

Closed-toe shoes (preferably waterproof)

Don't forget to pack a scarf.

A shawl to keep you warm in the evenings.

An umbrella will also come in handy, both for rain protection and for shielding you from the sun on colder days.

Comfortable walking shoes with arch support, since you’ll be doing a lot of walking!

Make sure to pack a trench coat or other waterproof outerwear

Even though it's winter, the sun can still be strong in Rome. So don't forget to pack sunscreen.

Rome is full of amazing sights, so make sure you have your camera ready to capture all the memories.

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Things to Do in Rome in January

03

Explore Colosseum

Built of concrete and stone, it is considered one of the greatest works of Roman architecture and engineering.

It is the largest amphitheatre ever built and could accommodate between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators.

Once you're inside, take some time to explore the different levels of the Colosseum.

The top level offers the best views, but it can be difficult to get tickets. If you plan on going to the top level, it's important to buy your tickets in advance.

Location: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Timings: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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04

Discover Vatican Museums

Highlights of the museums include the Sistine Chapel, with its iconic ceiling painted by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms, decorated by one of the Renaissance’s most celebrated painters.

Other must-sees are the Egyptian Collections, which houses one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artefacts in the world, and the Gregorian Etruscan Museum, home to an impressive collection of Etruscan art.

Location: The Vatican is located about 5km from the centre of Rome.

Timings: 8:30 am to 6:30 pm

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05

Visit Roman Forum

This extensive archaeological site includes the ruins of several political, economic, and religious buildings that provide insight into Rome’s long history.

You can see the ruins of some of the most important buildings in the Roman Forum, including the Temple of Julius Caesar and the Arch of Titus.

One of the best times to visit the Roman Forum is during January, when tourist numbers are lower and you can enjoy a more intimate experience of this incredible ancient site.

Location: The Roman Forum, located in the small valley between the Palatine and Capitoline Hills.

Timings: 8:30am to 4:30pm.

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06

Explore Palatine Hill

The largest of Rome’s seven hills, the Palatine is one of the most ancient parts of the city – and exploring it is one of the most fascinating things to do in Rome in January.

Once the exclusive domain of Rome’s wealthy elite, today it’s home to a string of impressive ruins, including the remains of several imperial palaces.

On a clear day, you can even see all the way to St Peter’s Basilica.

If you’re visiting in January, you can also take advantage of reduced ticket prices for Palatine Hill.

Location: The Palatine Hill is located in the centre of Rome, just south of the Roman Forum.

Timings: It is open every day from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

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07

Admire St. Peter’s Basilica

During the winter months, St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the popular Things to do in Rome in January for both tourists and Romans alike.

The Basilica is located in Vatican City, and is one of the most well-known churches in the world. St. Peter’s Basilica was built in the 16th century, and is home to many works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà.

The Basilica is free to enter, however there is a small fee to climb to the top of the dome.

Location: Vatican City

Timings: In January, the opening times differ. From Monday to Saturday it is open from 7 am to 6 pm and from 1 pm to 6 pm on Sundays.

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08

Take a Trastevere Neighbourhood Walk

One great way to see a different side of Rome in January is to take a walk through the charming neighbourhood of Trastevere.

This is an area that is popular with both tourists and locals, and it’s easy to see why.

The streets are lined with pretty buildings, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants, and it’s only a short walk from some of Rome’s most famous attractions.

January is a great time to visit Trastevere as the weather is usually mild, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months.

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09

Checkout Borghese Palace & Villa Borghese

Checkout Borghese Palace & Villa Borghese if you’re visiting Rome during January.

If you love art, then this is the place for you, as the Borghese family were avid art collectors.

The palace houses a number of famous artworks by artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini, while the villa is home to an extensive collection of antiquities and a beautiful landscaped garden.

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10

Visit Roman Catacombs

January is an ideal time to visit the Catacombs because it is not as crowded as other times of year and you can avoid the heat of summer.

These subterranean burial chambers date back to the 2nd century AD, and were used by Christians as a place to bury their dead.

The catacombs are a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life, and are well worth a visit.

Location: They are located just outside the city centre, and can be reached easily by public transportation.

Timings: The catacombs are open every day from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

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11

Admire the beautiful Trevi Fountain

At over 85 feet high and 65 feet wide, the Trevi Fountain is one of the largest fountains in the world.

On your visit, you will see one of the most elaborately decorated fountains, with beautiful sculptures and bas-reliefs adorning its walls.

It’s said that if you throw a coin into the fountain with your right hand over your left shoulder, you will be granted your wish.

The streets around the Trevi Fountain are lined with high-end shops selling everything from clothes and jewellery to souvenirs and artwork. If you’re looking to do some shopping while in Rome, this is definitely the place to do it.

Location: The fountain is located in the Piazza di Trevi, which is easily accessible from the popular tourist areas of Rome.

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12

Checkout Spanish Steps

One of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, the Spanish Steps were built in the early 18th century to connect the Spanish Square with the French Square.

The 135 steps were designed by several architects, including Francesco de Sanctis, AlessandroSpecchi, Pietro Passalacqua and Giuseppe Pannini.

The steps become especially popular in early May when they are covered in a carpet of pink azaleas.

Timings: In January, the Spanish Steps are open to visitors from 9 am to 4 pm.|

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Imperial Forum

In each of these structures the story of the emperors, the glories and the surrounding events of daily life whispers incessantly.And here you are in a history class you will never forget because you can feel and touch the lesson. And here's a tip: To set the time and place, the setting of sunset is important. As golden rays pierce through the centuries old shell, you will be left with the exposure to the constant weight of the history that surrounds you. Thus, go with your camera, full of motivation and enthusiasm, and walk you through the past, and be as fascinated as you want by the Imperial Forum.

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