Vatican in December

Christmas ceremonies and closures Dec 24–26.

All twelve months in one grid — weather, crowds and prices, with gaps left as unknown.

December is rated mixed. These months rate higher:

• MayGreatWarm, busy.
• SeptemberGreatWarm; crowds thin from mid-month.
• OctoberGreatMild; good month.
• JanuaryGoodCool and quiet; rain likely.

• VaticanHighs around 13 °C (55 °F), lows around 5 °C (41 °F), rain on about 8 daysHighs around 55 °F (13 °C), lows around 41 °F (5 °C), rain on about 8 days
• Rome, Vatican City · Vatican City and central Romecool

  Hot July–August (33–38 °C (91–100 °F)) with long, shadeless queues in St Peter's Square; November is the wettest month. The Museums are air-conditioned in parts only.Hot July–August (91–100 °F (33–38 °C)) with long, shadeless queues in St Peter's Square; November is the wettest month. The Museums are air-conditioned in parts only.

Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.

• Immaculate Conception (8 Dec)

  8 December · Rome and the Vatican

  Public holiday; the Museums close.

• Christmas and New Year

  24 Dec–1 Jan · St Peter's Square and Basilica

  Midnight Mass needs tickets; large crowds; the Museums close on 25–26 Dec and 1 Jan.

Crowds · Vatican City overall

High

Prices · Vatican City overall

Medium

Vatican City overall: Christmas crib and tree in the square; Midnight Mass tickets are free but scarce.

Weather, crowds and prices for any two months in Vatican, side by side.

• A warm coat, hat and gloves for mornings and evenings
• Layers: a fleece or light jacket

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