Christmas is a vibrant time of year for Italy and particularly, in Rome! If you are here for the holidays, this is probably your first Christmas in Italy and haven’t got a chance to live the Italian holiday spirit. So many families travel for the holidays nowadays and Christmas is no longer ubiquitous to staying at home. Take a tour around Rome to see if this festive city might not be your next holiday tradition.
Rome really caters to families and provides many family friendly activities for children, like visiting Santa or ice skating. For the non-Italian speaking families, indulge in some of Italy's best Christmas traditions during your holiday visit. Every Italian child (and adult) can't wait for this time of year to enjoy "panettone" or "pandoro," two typical cake like desserts eaten only during Christmas time accompanied with milk for breakfast or more commonly, sparkling wine during an evening toast. They can be found at any supermarket or pastry shop - getting a local, fresh one from a bakery is the best. Or better yet, ask a local tour guide for their favorite Christmas sweet spot. P.S. Parents, Italy stuffs their stockings on the Epiphany (6 th of January), when the Befana (witch) comes and gives well- behaved children candy. So, if your child has made an Italian friend over the holidays, I suggest slipping a candy underneath its pillow that night!
Then, go out with your family to see the famous "presepi" (nativity scenes) that move and light up. The most famous is in front of the Vatican. The vast amount of details and work that goes into them will impress any adult or child. Check out the 100 Presepi exhibition as well.
Europe is famous for its Christmas markets (mercantini di natale) and Rome doesn’t fall behind. This year’s favorites are the classics in Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna but as well as near the Auditorium and in the neighborhood of rationalist architecture, EUR.
Finally, Rome is truly festive with Christmas trees and lights everywhere. Take a stroll around and finish at one of their ice-skating rinks (pista di pattinaggio) around the city. Particularly unique is the rink right under Castel del'Angelo. Happy Holidays!!! or... Buone feste!