Christmas in Italy – Rome, Florence, & Venice

The winter holidays throughout Europe are absolutely magical. We were lucky enough to spend early December in Italy, where we got a little taste of Christmas in Italy. From nativity scenes to Christmas lights and everything in between, we LOVED the festive decor throughout the Italian cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice.

One of the biggest pros to visiting European countries in December is that you will be traveling in the low season. This means fewer lines and fewer tourists! You can enjoy historical monuments like the Colosseum or the Duomo without the crowds. For example, people walked straight into the Vatican with zero lines. On a normal summer day, that line could be hours long.

If you’re debating on whether or not you should travel to Italy during the holidays, check out our photos below to find some Christmas inspiration.

Rome

Our Christmas trip started off in Rome – and it did not disappoint! The city is full of festivity. There is a lot to enjoy in Rome during the Christmas holiday season, from early December through Epiphany on January 6.

One of our favorite things about Rome was how the little shops and restaurants displayed beautiful decor. It’s tempting to immediately head to the monuments, but be sure to not skip over the charming side streets and inviting doorways.

Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican is one of the prettiest places to be during Christmas in Rome. Each year, Saint Peter’s Square displays a huge Christmas tree. Tourists often visit the Vatican simply to watch the pope celebrate midnight mass on Christmas Eve inside Saint Peter’s Basilica (in the square, the mass is shown on large screens). He delivers his Christmas blessing at noon on Christmas Day.

Another site that can’t be missed in Rome is the life-sized nativity at the Vatican. Though usually not unveiled until Christmas Eve, we were lucky enough to spot the nativity scene during our visit in early December! The Vatican is actually listed as one of our top 10 things to do in Rome.

Florence

Florence wins our award for the most beautifully decorated Italian city for Christmas. It was incredible walking through the enchanting streets that were lined with Christmas lights. On December 8th in the historic center, the large Christmas tree is set up in the magnificent setting of the Piazza del Duomo. I love pairing the Christmas tree with the Duomo in this image below.

We also stumbled upon this absolutely gorgeous street, just a few roads down from Ponte Vecchio. This street not only featured a glorious display of hanging Christmas lights, but also a life-size ornament. Lots of people stop to take photos with this unique piece of decor. This was one of my favorite memories from the holidays in Italy.

Another site in Florence that can’t be missed is Ponte Vecchio itself. The iconic pedestrian bridge is packed with shoppers throughout the summer days…but during Christmas, it turns into an enchanting walkway.

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We explored the little side streets that were lined with festive lights. You should also stop by the Piazza della Repubblica. The public square is well-worth visiting no matter the time of year. However, there is a special Christmas tree that pops up for the holidays. We spotted in on the carousel within the square.

Florence is situated near other charming Italian cities. Day trips are a great way to see more Christmas decor! We opted for a day trip to Cinque Terre. If you are wondering how to plan a Cinque Terre day trip (+ a Stop in Pisa), we have all the answers here!

Would you rather book a tour? Consider these options…

Venice

The canal city of Venice was the least decorated for Christmas, but still so, so beautiful. Our favorite piece of holiday decor was this unique Christmas tree that was set up in front of Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. You will also find string lights all throughout St. Mark’s Square.

Will you be visiting Venice? Check out our guide, 1 Day in Venice: The Perfect Itinerary to See Everything

No matter which city in Italy or Europe you visit over the holidays, you will have an incredible experience. Christmas in Italy was an experience like none other. We look forward to the next destination!

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