fallon1777

Can anyone help me out?? I am planning on taking my boyfriend to Rome for his birthday...January(3rd). "They" say the winters can be mild but sometimes chilly and rainy. If anyone can give me some tips on what to pack I'd appreciate it. We are going for 8 days, this will be my first time and his third. We will staying at a hotel along the Via Veneto. Can anyone recommend a nice spot for a birthday dinner? Thanks in advance for your help.

Huitres

I am always in Italy, Rome, etc during that time. It is cold, however not unbearable. I get by with a leather coat and I wear layers underneath to keep warm. I have worn long john silk pants under my regular pants and they help keep out the cold too (Eddie Bauer sells them). It is often windy and rainy. Please note that Epiphany (Jan 6) is celebrated in Italy and that it is a holiday. Most (if not all), stores, places, shops, etc. will be closed that day.

Grappolo d'Oro in the Campo dei Fiori district is a very special restaurant and a favorite of mine. I would think that you could find a nice restaurant in and around the Via Veneto area as that is full of shops and tourists. Have a great trip and don't forget your (mini) umbrella!

TopMan

I agree with the compact umbrella idea and at least soem sort of outer garment such as a windbreakerthat is waterproof.

How cold does it really get? Well, there are lots of PALM TREES growing in Rome so that should give you some idea of the temperature range.

kslanker

We will be in Rome from the 5th thru the 13th of January. Have been for the last several years. I enjoy that time because there are fewer tourists. But the weather is not an issue. Previous posts are absolutely on target, chilly in the mornings, nice during the day (50s and can be higher). An umbrella is a must.

Alfredo's is one of my favorites, a block and half north of piazza navona. They make the best fetuccine alfredo using pecorino Romano instead of the heavy cream used in U.S. You will never get anything like it here.

Any questions.....email me. Have a great time.

maryanne1

My daughter and I are going to Rome in January. Have also wondered about the weather so thanks for the answer. Now searching for a hotel that is quiet- 3 or 4 star one in the Pantheon or Piazza Navona area. Have looked at sites suggested,but still have not decided. Just want personal experience suggestions. Restaurants suggestions in these areas would be helpful. Thanks for all help.

MFNYC

Maryanne1,
Two highly regarded hotels in the PAntheon/Navona area are the Santa Chiara (3*, I stayed here and can personally recommend it) and Del senato. Put these names in the search box above for lots more info.

ChevyChasen

how cold can it get? my nose nearly froze off waiting an hour in the biting wind for the bus to take my family back from hadrians villa. the wind was so strong we lost a shopping bag with some postcards in it. i wonder where they are today. vittorio veneto monument and on vatican dome are two other ice cold areas,especially getting all sweaty after climbing all those steps.
but in the end it is all worth it.
a disposable raincoat is better than an umbrella in these conditions, but i would carry a compact umbrella as well.