The Rome Jubilee 2025 is approaching its final days, and Rome is getting ready for one of the most magical moments of the year: Christmas. It’s a truly special time when the closing of the Holy Year meets the festive atmosphere of December, transforming the Eternal City into a stage of lights, spirituality and traditions that captivate visitors from all over the world.
Basilicas shine brighter than ever, elegant decorations illuminate the streets, and iconic places such as St. Peter’s Square, Piazza Navona and the Roman Forum become unforgettable backdrops. The city blends the solemnity of the final Jubilee celebrations with the charm of Christmas in Rome, creating an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
A Historic Moment: Experiencing the Final Days of the Jubilee in Rome
As the Rome Jubilee 2025 draws to a close, Rome welcomes travellers and pilgrims eager to take part in the last celebrations of this extraordinary year. Millions have walked through the Holy Doors of the four major basilicas—St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls—beginning a spiritual journey of hope and renewal.
In December, the spiritual atmosphere naturally blends with the magic of the Christmas season. Events, special liturgies and moments of prayer become even more intense as the city prepares to close the Holy Year. For international visitors, it’s the perfect moment to immerse themselves in art, culture and centuries-old traditions.
Christmas in Rome: Lights, Traditions and Wonder
Experiencing Christmas in Rome is truly unique. Throughout December, the city transforms: historic streets glow with festive lights, lively Christmas markets appear in the squares, and every corner tells a story rooted in centuries of Christian history.
St. Peter’s Square: The Heart of Christmas in Rome
Every year, the giant Christmas tree and the monumental Nativity scene turn St. Peter’s Square into one of the most iconic festive sights in the world. Visitors gather daily to admire the scene under Michelangelo’s dome, which seems to shine even more brightly during the holidays.
Piazza Navona: Rome’s Most Famous Christmas Market
Piazza Navona becomes a joyful world of carousels, handmade crafts, sweets, traditional toys and street performances—perfect for families and travellers seeking a glimpse of local Christmas traditions.
The Roman Forum: History With a Touch of Magic
During winter evenings, the Roman Forum and the Imperial Fora become even more spectacular thanks to captivating lights and special guided experiences. Walking among ancient ruins during the festive season is like stepping into a timeless Christmas postcard.
Nativity Scenes: Art and Devotion
Rome is world-famous for its Nativity scenes. Must-see highlights include:
- the historic crib at Santa Maria Maggiore
- the mechanical Nativity on the Janiculum Hill
- the international exhibition 100 Presepi
A perfect itinerary for those who want to experience Rome’s deepest Christmas spirit.
Events, Culture and Music: Celebrating the End of the Jubilee
As the Jubilee ends, Rome hosts an even richer program of cultural and religious events, including:
- papal Masses and ceremonies in the Vatican
- Christmas concerts in churches and historic theatres
- Jubilee routes for the final pilgrims of the Holy Year
- exhibitions, conferences and spiritual gatherings throughout the city
The highlight of the season is the Christmas Eve Mass and the Urbi et Orbi blessing in St. Peter’s Square—one of the most watched religious events worldwide.
Explore Rome With Forexchange Experiences and the Audioguide
To make the most of your stay, especially during such a busy season, having the right tools is essential.
Forexchange Experiences offer guided tours, skip-the-line entry and curated itineraries that help international visitors navigate the city effortlessly. You can also choose the Rome audioguide, ideal for exploring at your own pace. It includes insights about the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trastevere , St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo and the Capitoline Museums.
Currency Exchange in Rome: Essential for Extra-EU Travellers
For travellers visiting from outside the European Union, handling currency correctly is crucial. Rome becomes particularly busy during Christmas and the final Jubilee weeks, so exchanging money safely and conveniently is a priority.Our branches in Rome provide quick, reliable currency exchange services. Branches are strategically located in:
- Termini Station
- Fiumicino Airport
- top tourist areas such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon
To save time and secure your rate, you can pre-order your currency online:
https://www.forexchange.com/currency-exchange
This makes your arrival smoother—no queues, no stress, and no hidden fees.
Tax Refund: Shop, Save and Claim VAT Back
Rome is an extraordinary city for shopping, especially during the Christmas season. Visitors from outside the EU can take advantage of Tax Refund services to reclaim VAT on eligible purchases. Forexchange assists travellers with:
- preparing Tax Refund documents
- validating forms
- receiving VAT reimbursement quickly and with full support
A great way to make your holiday shopping even more convenient.
Rome Between Spirituality and Christmas Magic
As the Rome Jubilee 2025 reaches its conclusion and the city lights up for Christmas, the Eternal City becomes one of the most fascinating destinations in the world for travellers seeking an unforgettable seasonal experience. Its blend of history, sacred traditions, art and festive atmosphere creates unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re seeking spirituality, culture or the magic of Italian Christmas traditions, Rome welcomes you with warmth: from basilicas to illuminated squares, from Nativity scenes to Christmas markets, all the way to the last Jubilee celebrations.
With Forexchange Experiences, the Rome audioguide and the option to book your currency exchange online, every moment of your stay becomes simpler, smoother and more enjoyable.
Rome is ready to welcome you—brighter than ever.
