Discovering Easter in Rome: 2024 Tips and Insights

Easter in Rome is a peak season, attracting large crowds who come to celebrate one of the most significant Catholic holidays. If you’re planning a visit to Rome during Easter and want to know what to expect and how to prepare, this guide will provide all the details you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

Planning a holiday in Rome for Easter can be more challenging than during off-peak months like January and February. To ensure a smooth experience, you’ll need to make several arrangements in advance.

This guide will assist you in organizing your trip by highlighting what to book ahead, suggesting the best activities and celebrations, and providing helpful tips for your stay.

Table of Contents

Is Rome Closed During Easter?

During Easter, the only days when offices and schools are closed are Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Schools are also closed on Good Friday and Saturday. However, most other establishments, including restaurants and shops, remain open.

Major landmarks are open, though the Vatican Museums close on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Note that the Vatican Museums are closed every Sunday except the last one of the month when entry is free.

Rome becomes very busy during Easter, marking the start of the peak season as locals and tourists alike flood the city.

What is Rome Like on Easter Sunday?

Easter Sunday morning in Rome is relatively calm, except for Saint Peter’s Square, which hosts the Easter Mass. Many restaurants offer fixed menus, so it’s wise to make reservations a few days in advance.

Throughout the day, the city center becomes bustling with both tourists and locals, and parks are lively as well.

Important Dates During Easter in Rome

March 24th – Palm Sunday (Domenica delle Palme)
March 29th – Good Friday (Venerdì Santo)
March 31st – Easter Sunday (Pasqua)
April 1st – Easter Monday (Lunedì dell’Angelo or Pasquetta)

Palm Sunday (Domenica delle Palme)

Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Easter, commemorates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, as described in the New Testament. On this day, a Mass is celebrated in Saint Peter’s Square with the pope blessing palm and olive branches. These branches are kept at home until the following year when they are burned to create the ashes for Ash Wednesday.

Good Friday (Venerdì Santo)

Good Friday observes Jesus’ crucifixion at Calvary. In 2024, this falls on March 29th. The pope will conduct the Via Crucis (Way of the Cross) at the Colosseum starting at 9:15 PM. A procession begins in Piazza Venezia, but the Colosseum itself is not open to the public. Spectators should position themselves in the surrounding streets for the best view, as roads will be closed, and public transport will be adjusted.

Easter Sunday (Pasqua or Domenica di Pasqua)

Easter Sunday features Masses across Rome and a significant celebration in Saint Peter’s Square, attracting pilgrims from around the world. Many Romans head out for lunch, so reservations at top restaurants are recommended. If the weather is sunny, locals often venture outside the city, but the central areas remain busy.

Easter Monday (Lunedì dell’Angelo or Pasquetta)

Easter Monday, known as Pasquetta, is a day for picnics throughout Italy, including Rome. You can enjoy a picnic in one of Rome’s parks or take a day trip to nearby towns. Museums remain open, and various neighborhood events take place.

What to Do in Rome at Easter

Attend the Easter Celebrations: For those comfortable with crowds, attend the Vatican Easter Mass in Saint Peter’s Square, which starts at 10 AM. Requests for tickets must be sent to the Prefettura della Casa Pontificia by March 23rd. Tickets are free but must be collected in advance.
Visit the Colosseum and the Roman Forum: April is an excellent time to visit these outdoor sites. Expect crowds, so booking skip-the-line tickets or a private tour in advance is advisable.
Go for a Picnic in the Park: Easter in Rome is perfect for picnics, especially on Easter Monday. Popular parks include Villa Pamphilj, Parco degli Acquedotti, Villa Borghese, and Villa Torlonia.
Enjoy Hanami: Experience the cherry blossom season, or Hanami, which usually coincides with Easter. Visit the Laghetto dell’EUR, the Orto Botanico, or the Japanese Institute for the best views.
Visit Rome’s Rose Garden: The Roseto Comunale, located at the foot of Aventine Hill, opens in early spring and features a vast collection of roses from around the world.
Go Offbeat: Explore lesser-known attractions like Sant’Agnese Fuori Le Mura, the Ostiense neighborhood, and Testaccio for a different perspective on Rome.
Go to a Museum: Many museums remain open on Easter Monday, but booking in advance is recommended for popular spots like the Galleria Borghese.
Take a Day Trip: Popular day trips from Rome include Lake Bracciano, Calcata, Civita di Bagnoregio, and Fiumicino. These locations offer scenic walks, hikes, and beachfront dining.

What to Book Ahead for Easter in Rome

Religious Functions: Secure tickets for Vatican Easter events by March 23rd.
Restaurants: Book reservations well in advance for Easter meals, especially at popular spots.
Tours: Reserve tours early due to high demand.
Hotels: Book early to secure preferred accommodations, especially for larger groups.
International and Domestic Travel: Book flights and other travel arrangements early to avoid issues.

What to Eat in Rome at Easter

Abbacchio allo Scottadito: Grilled lamb ribs often served with potatoes.
Artichokes: Prepared in various ways, from traditional Roman recipes to modern interpretations.
Coratella con Carciofi: Offal with artichokes, a classic Easter dish.
Corallina: Spicy sausage traditionally eaten for breakfast on Easter Sunday.
Painted Eggs: A traditional breakfast item for Easter.
Pizza Pasquale: A cheese-rich pizza commonly enjoyed during Easter.
Vignarola: A Roman pasta dish made with spring vegetables.
Easter Eggs and Colomba Pasquale: Traditional Italian cakes, available from local bakeries and chocolate shops.

Where to Eat in Rome During Easter 2024

Divinity Restaurant at The Pantheon: Offers a special Easter menu featuring traditional and innovative dishes. (Via Santa Chiara 4a)
Giano Pasticceria: Known for its Easter cakes and chocolates, including colomba cake and gourmet Easter eggs. (Circonvallazione Gianicolense 224)
Cresci Bakery: Traditional bakery serving Easter breakfast with sweet and savory options. (Via Alcide de Gasperi 11/17)
Senses Restaurant & Lounge Bar: Luxury dining with a menu celebrating Roman Easter traditions. (Largo Giovanni Montemartini 20)
Cuoco e Camicia: Offers a dinner menu featuring Easter specialties like lamb with artichokes. (Via di Monte Polacco 2/4)
Aqualunae: Provides a tasting menu for Easter with a focus on seasonal ingredients. (Piazza dei Quiriti 19/20)
Numa al Circo: Celebrates Easter with traditional dishes and a special breakfast menu. (Viale Aventino 20)
Hosteria Grappolo D’Oro: Traditional Roman fare with Easter-specific dishes near Campo de’ Fiori. (Piazza della Cancelleria 80)