If you’re looking for some respite from the sunshine (or on very rare occasions, the rain), Rome’s cool underground sights are the ideal choice:
Book a tour for the lowest level of the Colosseum. Delve into the Colosseum’s underground chambers where you can walk through the maze of subterranean chambers and hear stories about the gruesome gladiator battles (There are a variety of tours available so ask our concierge to help).
Head to the high-tech Palazzo Valentini - Multimedia technology has brought archaeological remains back to life reconstructing the missing parts of the buildings. You can explore the Rome of 2000 years ago, guided by Piero Angela’s narrative voice.
Descend into the welcoming chill of Basilica di San Clemente: with its underground archaeological complex it is one of the world’s great treasures, a place loved by pilgrims, students of art and visitors from all over the world. Here, as in no other place, one can visit and experience different levels of Rome’s past from the 12th century back to a 1st century Roman house.
Explore Rome’s parks in the late summer and early Autumn:
The beautiful Villa Borghese just behind Rome Luxury Suites - top sights in the park include Galleria Borghese and the glorious hilltop Villa Medici.
Head to the tree-shaded Palatine if you’re exploring ancient Rome.
Other Stories
NeighborhoodA Virtual Trip Down Via Margutta
Despite its diminutive size, Via Margutta has certainly earned its place as one of Rome’s most famous streets, and its rich history along with a laid-back charm make it well-worth taking a virtual peek into its picturesque nooks and crannies
Welcome to the Eternal City! As the seasons change, Rome remains a vibrant city offering a mix of art, culture, and experiences. Some will say as timeless as its history. From world renowned masterpieces to intimate art shows, there’s always something happening in the heart of the city that will capture you eternally.
Christmas Markets (Until 24 December 2024)
From Piazza Navona to Parco della Musica, Rome sets the festive tone with a curation of Christmas markets throughout December. Explore them to find handmade gifts, sip mulled wine, and embrace the holiday spirit under the magical lights of the city. Don’t miss the gardens and halls, and let yourself be captivated by the art that will charm you like a siren’s song.
Le Chant des Sirènes at Villa Medici (Until 13 January 2025)
Rome is magical and mystical just like Le Chant des Sirènes at Villa Medici. This haunting and poetic exhibition fuses ancient myth with modern expression. Don’t miss the gardens and halls, and let yourself be captivated by the art thoughout the property.
Botero at Palazzo Bonaparte (Until 19 January 2025)
The greatest retrospective of Fernando Botero’s art ever held in Italy at the majestic Palazzo Bonaparte is a must-see. His voluptuous figures and vibrant colors contrast beautifully with the grand history of the palazzo. Let our concierge arrange your tickets to avoid the queues!
Guercino at Scuderie Quirinale (Until 26 January 2025)
The rooms of Scuderie Quirinale open their doors for visitors with a once in a lifetime exhibition highlighting more than a hundred 17th century masterpieces. Its illustrious protagonists? Guercino and the Ludovisi dynasty led by Alessandro Ludovisi, Pope Gregory XV from 1621 to 1623. The masterpieces by the painter from Cento dialogue with other masterpieces and artists on display - Guido Reni, Domenichino, Lanfranco, Annibale and Ludovico Carracci, Pietro da Cortona, Padovanino, Van Dyck, Poussin and Bernini - evoking episodes of rivalry, exchange and mutual influence.
Moving Picture (946-3) Kyoto at Gagosian (Until 1 February 2025)
Moving Picture (946-3) Kyoto Version is the immersive, experiential apotheosis of Richter’s Strip project, which he began working on in 2010 following his discovery of digital tools for mining existing paintings for new artistic strategies. The immersive installation in film and sound will fill the entire exhibition space and will be the artist’s first gallery exhibition since 1983.
Pietro Ruffo at Palazzo delle Esposizioni (Until 16 February 2025)
A curation of 50 works examining the relationship between human beings and the planet, inviting viewers to « consider the wonderful potential of our presence on Earth ». L’ultimo meraviglioso minuto (The last marvelous minute) is a passionate homage to Rome placing Millenia of evolution under a single glaze in the shape of a visual palimpsest created especially for Palazzo delle Esposizioni.
Joan Mirò at Museo della Fanteria (Until 23 February 2025)
A new exhibition at the Museo Storico della Fanteria in Rome showcases works created by Spanish avant-garde artist Joan Miró between 1924 and 1981. The major part of the exhibition comes from private Italian and French collections rarely seen by the public.
Tony Cragg at The Baths of Diocletian (Until 4 May 2025)
In a journey that engages senses and emotions, Tony Cragg displays sculptural works in the Baths of Diocletian. The exhibition explores nature’s creative processes and evolution while also extending beyond the museum, with sculptures displayed around the city. A true connection between the past, the present and the future by one of the most renowned contemporary sculptors.
Rome is one of the most important art cities in the world and for centuries has been welcoming artists to adorn its walls, ceilings, churches and palaces.
It’s the most magical season of the year… Unlike any other season in Rome, winter brings a serene beauty to the city. The city becomes less crowded and the crisp air fuses with the soft lights to create a unique festive atmosphere. Warm meals, quiet alleys and holiday decorations will create the perfect stage for you this winter in Rome.
Winter Delights – What to Eat?
Winter is all about comfort. Rome’s unique location in Italy and its rich history make it a unique location to experience Winter meals in Europe. Here are some must-tries:
Coda alla Vaccinara: A slow-cooked oxtail stew enriched with tomato, celery, and herbs. It’s a classic Roman dish that pairs beautifully with a glass of Italian red wine.
Puntarelle: A crisp winter vegetable served with anchovy dressing. This Roman specialty can only be enjoyed a few weeks every year. The perfect way to enjoy the puntarelle season is in the comfort of our new restaurant Da Mariolino, a couple of steps from the Spanish Steps.
Panetonne Artigianale: During the holiday season, Rome’s bakeries come alive with artisan panettone—a light, sweet bread studded with candied fruits, raisins, chocolate or even pistachio for those with a sweet tooth.
Medaglione di Agnello: A lamb shank with bell pepper cream, demi-glace and red chard. A must you can experience in our restaurant, Emme. Ask the reception for a table in our intimate restaurant with a hidden garden.
Unique Experiences – What to Do
Even if the temperatures are dropping, winter remains a magical period to experience Rome during and after the holiday season. Here are our recommendations:
Christmas Markets: From Piazza Navona to Parco della Musica, Rome sets the festive tone with a curation of Christmas markets throughout December. Explore them to find handmade gifts, sip mulled wine, and embrace the holiday spirit under the magical lights of the city.
Visit the Vatican for Midnight Mass: The grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica reaches a peak at Christmas. An unforgettable experience. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for Christmas Eve, join the Romans for Midnight Mass, or simply enjoy the Nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square. This year’s Giubileo will also bring its own calendar of special events.
Ice Skating at Castel Sant’Angelo: Glide across the ice with the stunning backdrop of our beloved Roman fortress. It’s a fun activity for all ages, with festive music and hot chocolate stalls to keep you warm.
Epiphany Celebrations (6 January): Epiphany is officially marking the end of the holiday season in Rome. The Celebrations bring one last time an array of parades, concerts, and a truly magical atmosphere to the city. Don’t miss the Piazza Navona Befana Market, where the old witch brings sweets to children according to the Roman legend.
Cozy Up in a Roman Cafe: Winter is the ideal season to linger over a cappuccino or a gourmet hot chocolate. Head to Caffè Greco on Via Condotti or Ciampini in Piazza di San Lorenzo in Lucina for a coffee experience surrounded with locals. Try the newly opened Marzapane after Piazza del Popolo for a more modern offer.
No matter how you choose to spend your winter days in Rome, the city offers endless opportunities to explore, taste, and experience its magic.
