Spring

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

Art: Pink Azaleas on the Spanish Steps: Celebrating spring and Rome’s birthday, the Spanish Steps, a few minutes’ walk from Rome Luxury Suites, are covered in brilliant pink and white azaleas (early April). Rome Opera will stage a spectacular production of Salome from 5 to 16 March. Auditorium has a busy program of classical and pop concerts, and is an easy taxi hop from Rome Luxury Suites. Chiostro di Bramante: Contemporary art about emotions shows at this beautiful cloister close to the Pantheon, until 31 July. Bath of Diocletian: In striking ancient surroundings, see ‘Dacia. The last frontier of Romanity’, archaeological treasures from Romania, until 21 April 2024 MAXXI, Rome’s contemporary art museum has an exhibition on the work of star Finnish furniture designer AALTO. Sports & Events: Italian Open: Tennis’s biggest stars come to Rome, from 6 to 19 May, at Foro Italico, an easy trip from Rome Luxury Suites. Rome Marathon: The world’s most scenic marathon route takes place in Rome on 17 March, winding through the historic centre of Rome. Let us advise you on the best viewing spots. Rome’s Birthday: Rome celebrates its birthday on 21 April, with parades of photogenic armoured gladiators and toga-clad Romans. It starts at Circo Massimo, and makes a circuit around Ancient Rome via the Colosseum. Festa della Liberazione: Parades and music celebrating the liberation of Italy post WWII, on 25 April annually. Good Friday (29 March) and Easter Sunday (31 March) Parades plus the Pope’s Easter address on Easter Sunday from a balcony above St Peter’s Square. May Day: The traditional free concert on 1 May will take place at Circus Maximus for the first time. Artichokes are in season: taste Lazio’s glories at Rome Luxury Suites’ EMME restaurant. Other seasonal highlights include fave (broad beans) and zucchini flowers, strawberries and cherries.

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.

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS December 8: L'Immacolata, celebrates the immaculate conception, and kickstarts the Christmas season: cue decorations and nativity scenes, including a life-size version at St Peter’s. December 24: There’s a (free) ticketed Midnight Mass on Christmas eve at St Peter’s Basilica. Midnight mass at Santa Maria Maggiore is less busy than St Peter’s, and a great event in a beautiful basilica. December 25: Pope Francis gives his Christmas blessing at noon from the balcony overlooking St Peter’s Piazza. December 8 – January 6: Visit the Christmas market in Piazza Navona with stalls selling sweets and presepe figures. New Year’s Eve: Celebrated with fireworks, usually centered on Circus Maximus, and visible from rooftops such as at Babuino 181. New Year’s Day: At noon is the ‘Tuffo nel Tevere’ - divers dive into the Tiber River. January 6: On Epiphany, the arrival of the Magi (three kings) is celebrated with a medieval parade along Via del Conciliazione carrying gifts for the Pope, who will say a 10am mass in St Peter’s. January 4: Rome’s Retail Sales begin and run till 15th February. February: Carnivale takes place before the start of Lent, usually in February, with costumed parades close to Rome Luxury Suites. WINTER FOOD: White truffles are in season: taste the best at Rome Luxury Suites’ EMME restaurant. Campagna Amica farmers’ market, with foodstuffs and tastings, takes place close to Circus Maximus, from 10.30am to 7pm Saturday and Sunday. Delicious winter produce on the menu includes fennel, radicchio and cavolo nero.