Rome turns into pure magic during the holiday season, with its ancient streets and piazzas glowing under festive lights. You’ll be humming, “It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas …”
December 8th marks the official start of Italy’s festive holiday season. The day is called L’Immacolata, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
That day (or earlier!) Rome transforms into Christmas wonderland, with decorations and lights blanketing the city. There are towering Christmas trees and tiny alleyways throughout the centro storico are strung with lights and stars.
You can stroll through iconic landmarks like Piazza Navona or explore the chic shops on Via dei Condotti, all beautifully illuminated.
A good way to see the lights and decorations is to take a Christmas walking tour or, even more fun, a Christmas vespa tour.
Ready to uncover the city’s most enchanting wintry spots?
Let’s dive into the best places to see Christmas lights in Rome that will leave you mesmerized and full of festive cheer!
Rome Christmas Lights Guide
Here are the 10+ best places to see Christmas lights in Rome during the holiday season:
1. Via del Corso
Via del Corso is a long, bustling street known for its shopping, historic landmarks. It’s a central artery through the city. And it’s a highlight of Christmas in Rome!
Each year, the entire street is draped in stunning lights, creating a festive atmosphere as you walk between shops and historic landmarks.
The lights are aways different too. So each year will surprise you.
2. Piazza Venezia
Piazza Venezia is in the heart of Rome. In December, the square is one of the city’s most festive spots.
It features one of Rome’s largest Christmas trees, often referred to as the “Spelacchio” tree. There’s a special lighting ceremony.
It’s beautifully lit and set against the backdrop of the Altare della Patria (Victor Emmanuel II Monument).
It’s a great spot to enjoy the lights and holiday decorations.
3. Spanish Steps
The areas surrounding the Spanish Steps are illuminated with masses of festive lights.
Piazza di Spagna, the square at the base of the Spanish Steps, has a large Christmas tree and festive decorations. The lights around the square create a magical ambiance, especially in the evening.
The buildings flanking the steps, particularly along Via dei Condotti and Via del Babuino, are decked out with Christmas lights.
The Church of Trinità dei Monti sits at the top of the Spanish Steps. It’s often lit up as well, but typically in more traditional, understated style.
4. St. Peter’s Square
Every Christmas, St. Peter’s Square has an impressive Nativity scene and a towering Christmas tree, all beautifully lit.
Different countries vie for the honor of donating the spruce tree. This year Slovenia got the nod.
The tree is usually lit in early December and remains up until January 6, or shortly after. In 2024, it will be lit up on December 7.
I just saw the ceremony last year. It’s really a sight to see, even with the huge crowds! But plan to be there a couple hours in advance.
The combination of holiday decorations and the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica really creates a magical atmosphere.
5. Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona is definitely one of the central hubs for Christmas decorations in Rome.
The square is transformed into a veritable Christmas wonderland! You’ll find market stalls, decorations, a carousel, and twinkling lights.
It’s also home to one of Rome’s most famous Christmas markets, making it the perfect place to soak up the festive ambiance and shop for souvenirs.
With the street performers, smell of mulled wine, and Bernini fountains, it’s just magical!
6. Via dei Condotti
This luxury shopping street is known for its high-end stores.
But during the holiday season, it becomes even more special with its elaborate Christmas light displays.
The street is decorated with elegant, shimmering lights, attracting visitors and locals alike.
The Fendi building on is known for its iconic Christmas light display, often referred to as the “light belt.” The building is illuminated with a sparkly belt that wraps around it, making it one of the standout Christmas lighting decorations in Rome.
7. Trastevere
The charming neighborhood of Trastevere dials up the charm even more at Christmas.
Its narrow alleys and vibrant nightlife are beautifully enhanced by the twinkling lights, making it a great area to explore in the evening.
Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of Rome’s oldest and most beautiful basilicas, is lit up during the Christmas season. The church’s stunning facade, with its golden mosaics, looks particularly magical when illuminated by holiday lights.
The piazza in front of the church, Piazza di Santa Maria in Trastevere, is also a popular gathering spot. It’s decorated with Christmas lights and a small tree, making it a lovely place to visit during the holiday season.
Even the restaurants in Trastevere are strewn with lights and decorations.
8. Piazza del Popolo
Another iconic square in Rome, Piazza del Popolo, gets festive in December.
There are beautiful lights and a large Christmas tree, adding a touch of holiday cheer to this historic location.
The nearby streets are also decorated, making it an excellent spot for an evening walk.
9. Galleria Alberto Sordi
Galleria Alberto Sordi is one of Rome’s most elegant and historic shopping arcades. It’s located near Piazza Colonna in the heart of the city.
Originally built in 1922, the Galleria was renamed in 2003 in honor of the beloved Italian actor Alberto Sordi.
The building itself is a beautiful example of early 20th century architecture, featuring high, vaulted glass ceilings and decorative mosaic floors.
Plus, the shopping gallery is beautifully decorated during the holiday season, with Christmas lights and festive ornaments adorning its interior.
It’s a great place to admire lights while doing some holiday shopping or just enjoying the atmosphere.
10. Orto Botanico
For an over-the-top festive experience in Rome, the Incanto di Luci at the Orto Botanico is an absolute must-see.
Imagine wandering along a one mile garden trail that’s completely transformed with glittering lights. It’s magical!
The dazzling light installations, tunnels of lights, and glowing forests make it a perfect holiday outing for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy the festive season in a beautiful setting.
This year it runs from November 16, 2023, to January 7, 2024. But here’s the catch—tickets are limited.
So, you’ll definitely want to book your spot in advance to make sure you don’t miss out.
It’s open from Wednesday to Sunday, with the lights on display from 4:30 pm to 11:00 pm (last entry around 9:30 pm). Tickets cost around €21 for adults and €15 for children, with family and group discounts available.
11. Villa Borghese
While more subtle, Villa Borghese often has sections lit up with Christmas lights, offering a peaceful place to enjoy festive walks.
The surrounding area, particularly near the Pincian Hill, offers wonderful views of the city’s Christmas lights from above.
The Christmas World event at Villa Borghese is returning this year, running from December 1, 2023, to January 7, 2024.
This festive celebration transforms part of the park into a massive Christmas village, complete with sparkling lights, themed installations, and interactive displays.
It’s one of the largest Christmas events in Europe, offering light displays, entertainment, and holiday markets.
Also, if you’re in the vicinity, you’ll want to pre-book tickets to visit the Borghese Gallery beforehand. After the Vatican Museums, it’s the next best museum in Rome!
I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best places to see Christmas lights in Rome You may find these other Rome trail guides useful:
- 8 Ways To Spend 1 days in Rome
- 2 Days in Rome Itinerary
- 4 Days in Rome itinerary
- 5 Days in Rome Itinerary
- Hidden Gems in Rome
- Best Day Trips From Rome
- Best museums in Rome
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