The Magic of The Villa Borghese Christmas World Feels Like an Italian Winter Fairytale
We love Rome, no matter the season, and think there’s no way you could ever get bored in the Eternal City. However, Rome during the holiday season is something else.
Throughout the years, we were lucky enough to experience Rome in all seasons, but nothing compares to winter. Lesser crowds, more locals, no heathwaves.
But if you’re planning to be in Rome this December, here’s the one Christmas Market you should not skip: the Christmas World in Villa Borghese.
Here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience.
The Villa Borghese Christmas World
Imagine stepping into a sparkling winter wonderland right in the heart of Rome – that’s Christmas World at Villa Borghese.
Over 40,000 m² of park comes alive with large light installations, themed worlds inspired by cities like Paris, London, New York, and Tokyo, and live performances by hundreds of actors.
There’s an ice-skating rink, Santa’s House, a giant carousel, and so much more. It’s like traveling the globe, but all in one festive stroll.
When does it take place in 2025?
The famous Christmas Market takes place from November 29 to January 11.
Opening hours:
- Every day 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
- December 24 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
- December 25 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
- December 31: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
- January 1: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)
What to expect & do
If you don’t know what to expect and why to go, here are only a few of the most important attractions in the park.
A huge ice-skating rink, where you can glide under festive lights, including a New York–style setup with a Brooklyn Bridge backdrop.
The Ice Slide and Ice Bumper rides offer more playful, wintry thrills.
A giant double-level carousel, often called the “Grand Christmas Carousel,” that is beautifully lit and very atmospheric. That’s something I wouldn’t try for sure, but a huge attraction for others.
Santa’s House / North Pole Village, where children can meet Santa and explore his sleigh and workshop. That would be the main attraction for our 3-year-old.
A live Christmas musical stage, with original performances, dance shows, and acrobats to really bring the magic to life.
The “Holiday Street”, a photo-perfect walkway decorated with major city landmarks (think London, Berlin, Paris, Tokyo), all in festive lights.
A Snow Village area where you will find snowy scenery, themed games, and lots of winter charm.
Live parades and processions: Santa and his elves ride around, gospel choirs perform, magic shows take place, and there’s lots of interaction with the audience.
And last, but not least, the Chocolate Factory / Toy Factory with sweet treats and workshops, plus themed food areas featuring seasonal flavors.
Where is it and how to get there?
Christmas World is in Villa Borghese, Viale del Galoppatoio, Rome. The entrance is in Piazzale Delle Canestre.
You can easily get there by subway line A, getting off at the Flaminio or Spagna stops.
Also, buses 119, 160, 490, 495, 61, 89 will take you to the park.
What does the ticket include?
The entrance ticket gives you access to Europe’s most beloved Christmas park and the Grand Christmas Show.
The experience is also enriched with scenic installations, new musicals, Christmas markets, themed food experiences, over 300 artists, and many other new features.
The attractions have an additional cost.
It is also worth noting that once you leave the village, you cannot return. Children up to 3 years old get free admission.
