Rome in December?

Question

We are planning a quick visit to Rome during that period.

How cold does it get? Say, compared to Atlanta? This is our first visit to Rome and we're travelling with a 2 year old. Is it going to be too cold for a toddler to run around?

What about attractions? Are they going to be closed during the holiday period?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Well, you are used to Atlanta weather but I would say it is never too cold for a 2-year-old to run around in Italy, with the exception of the mountains in the extreme north.

I live in Florence and my 2-year-old runs around year round. (This freaks Italians out who find excuses not to let their children run around outside any time of year: too cold, too hot, too humid, too windy...the list goes on). Temps in the central part of Italy tend to run around 50 degrees in the daytime and potentially hover around freezing at night, although Rome is further south and can be warmer than that.

The thing you need to be on the lookout for is rain more than cold temps. If it rains, you'll be cold anyway! Be sure to bring good water-proof shoes, rain jackets and umbrellas.

As for the period, December is a nice time to visit because there are generally fewer tourists (there are always alot) and the holiday decorations are quite beautiful. National holidays are on the following days: Dec. 8, 25, 26 and Jan 1 and 6 and you will find quite a lot of things closed those days -- although in touristy areas that is less likely so.

If you want more info about traveling to Italy, especially with a 2-year-old, feel free to contact me.