Easter in Rome?
 

Having been to Rome in December each of the last 5 years, my wife and I are now planning on going back the week before Easter Sunday (Holy Week). We'll arrive 8 days before Easter Sunday and leave the day before Easter Sunday (March 19-26).

Has anybody been to Rome during that week? What can we expect in terms of crowds and, more importantly, in terms of sights/monuments being closed that week?

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

I've been to Rome during Holy Week a few times. I didn't really notice that the city was any more crowded with tourists than it is in the summer. Yes, there will be crowds at the Vatican and lines for the Museum will be longer. You won't be there for the Easter Mass on Sunday so that's not an issue. Another crowded area is the Colosseum on Good Friday because the Pope conducts Stations of the Cross there. Everything should be open as usual during Holy Week including museums, retaurants and shops but of course close on Easter Sunday and many the Monday after Easter. Some shops will close early on the afternoon of Holy Saturday but not enough to be problem.

I think the Spanish Steps will be filled with azaleas during this time, at least they were when we were there during Holy Week a couple of years ago. It was lovely.

I made arrangements for someone to go to Rome during Easter week a few years ago, and flights and hotels were filling early. It may be a good idea to secure these soon.

I have been there at this time twice. I did find the crowds larger than summer, especially the number of students travelling.

Hours at the Sistine Chapel and other religious sites were limited.

Rates are high.

I prefer December, despite the weather.