Hello! I am planning a trip to Rome in January and am wondering what to expect re: weather and crowds. I know it will be cold but how cold? What are the crowds and tourist sites like during this time of year? Thanks!!

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I've been to Rome many times, but the two weeks I spent in January 2008 were probably the most enjoyable.

I thought the weather was quite good -- most days, the temperature averaged around 10C (I think that must be about 50F) and at night, dropped close to freezing but not ever below. I don't believe I ever used the gloves I brought and the winter coat and boots stayed in a closet. A raincoat and shoes were all I ever needed. There was some rain but not much.

And it was wonderful to visit uncrowded sites. Twice, the Sistine chapel was nearly deserted when I visited (something I have never seen at any other time of year) and there were never lineups for any other sites. Most evenings, I would have a glass of wine in one of the cafes that face the Pantheon -- they have heaters at each table, and there were never crowds so it was possible to get a good table and great service.

And the January sales are pretty good, too!

sacc's account is absolutely typical for January - both weatherwise and regarding crowds. However, be prepared for rainy days, too.

we were in rome january 2008. no crowds anywhere! not even the sistine chapel. the weather was a bit cold but not freezing. i wore a sweater under a light trench, and DH wore a sweater under a northface windbreaker. not freezing like it is in ny in january thats for sure!.

maybe I had the misfortune of hitting a fluke cold spell but I was there in february and it was cold. The temperature was in the 40s but it was damp. That said, it was still wonderful but it may be quite cold.

Thanks! That all is perfect! I live in Chicago so anywhere has to be better and warmer than Chicago in January!!

We have been in Rome a couple of times during January and I think it is among the best months to visit. Weather can vary but it is not going to get anywhere near chicago temps.


Do not forget the excellent sales at all of the shops; these usually begin right after Epiphany. You may not find longlines for the Sistine Chapel but you will certainly find long lines to enter many of the shops on the first sale day.