If you want a Christmas with a difference Rome is a wonderful destination. Rome is a Christian city, so as you would expect Christmas is a huge celebration. However, what many people do not realise is just how special Christmas is in the city.
Unlike in many other parts of the world Christmas is very much a religious festival in the city of Rome. It is far less commercialised. This is great because you get the true spirit of Christmas, however it does mean that most of the shops, bars and restaurants are closed on the actual festive days. Therefore, you have to plan your trip and plan something different to do in Rome on these days.
What to See and Do During Christmas in Rome
Shopping at the city’s many Christmas markets is a great way to get some unusual presents. There is always a beautiful outdoor skating rink set up near the Piazza di Spagna, which is Rome’s main shopping area. It is even open on Christmas morning.
Rome is where the first Christmas mass was held. Even today, you can attend mass in the church where that first mass was held at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. There is also a spectacular religious procession held for the Holy Crib on Christmas day that finishes at this church.
Rome is home to some wonderful nativity scenes. It is traditional for families to visit one of them prior to attending Christmas mass. One of the biggest and best is in St Peter’s square, but there are dozens dotted throughout the city. They are all different, so are all worth a visit. Most squares have cafes and bars, so they are wonderful people watching spots.
Whilst in Rome over Christmas you will get the chance to see many live nativities or Christmas plays. The best are held in Orte, Tarquinia and Villaregia. They are held on the 25 and 26th of December and the 1st and 6th of January, so you can see them all if you stay in Rome for the New Year as well as for Christmas.
Finding Cheap Flights to Rome
It is not too late to find cheap flights to Rome. Travel sites have many last minute deals available. If you are not too worried about where you stay in Rome, you can find yourself a real bargain.
If you are looking for Barcelona cheap flights from various parts of the UK visit the Jet2 website.
