It looks like the only time we'll be able to travel next year is January. I'm not complaining, I'll take what I can get.

My husband I are looking to go back to Rome and stay there for about 10 days. We've been there twice before but never just the 2 of us. I already have a long list of things we have not yet seen but looking for any suggestions...something romantic perhaps? I'm also wondering if there's anything special going on in January, ie: festivals, markets etc.

Look forward to your replies...

We were there Jan 4-7 this year on a side jaunt from Paris. On Jan 6 that week, the Feast of the Epiphany took place, which is one the high Catholic holidays. I was concerned that things would be closed, etc., but it was actually quite the opposite. In fact the Vatican Museums were open in the afternoon the week we were there, and it was empty! There was a parade on one of the days were there, and a huge street fare. We go to watch it from the top of Castle Sant'Angelo, which was particularly memorable. Because of the holiday, I think a lot of people didn't have work. We noticed that the streets seemed awfully crowded, et.c

Have a wonderful time...I'm so jealous!

waz also in Rome one Jan 6 recently and loved it - especially in the main churches there was lots of choral singing - i heard the tune of Silent Night a couple of times and found it very moving for some reason.

Lovely images. I cannot wait to actually stop running, to just relax and know we have enough time to do a "deeper-dive" in a city so thrilling.
If you think of other things, let me know.

I was amazed at how walkable the city is. Our hotel was in Trastavere (which we LOVED), and we walked everywhere, Colloseum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican, etc. The weather was wonderful - sunny and in the mid to low 50s. We had fun stumbling across interesting little piazzas, the cat sanctuary, stores, etc.

January 17 is the blessing of the animals at Sant' Eustachio Church. We were in Rome a few years ago during January and are going back again next January. I think it is a great time to travel in much of Italy.

I couldn't agree more! No crowds to get into things, no standing in stifling heat...even many of the cafes have those warming heater/lamps out so can still enjoy an espresso outside.

Buon Viaggio,
BC

Weather was also sunny and in 50s when i was there but got a lot colder the days after i left. In Florence the temps dipped down to 15 degrees F when i was there. Bring a warm wrap though bitter cold is highly unlikely.