Heading to Rome in January and wondering what to pack? Don’t worry about it, I’m here to help!
Visiting Rome in January is ideal for people who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sights without having to wait in line for ages.
Sure, the weather is not quite as warm as in spring or summer but it’s still very comfortable and one of the best places in Europe in winter.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to pack for your January trip to Rome. This includes a packing list as well as some outfit ideas.
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What is the Weather Like in Rome in January?
January in Rome is the heart of winter, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F). It’s a relatively mild winter compared to northern Europe, but you’ll still need to prepare for chilly mornings and evenings.
Rain is frequent, though snowfall is extremely rare. The key to staying comfortable in Rome in January is dressing in layers and being prepared for both cool, sunny days and wet, rainy ones.
Despite the cooler temperatures, January is an ideal time to explore Rome’s famous landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and the Roman Forum without the usual crowds.
You’ll have more time and space to enjoy the city’s historic sites at a leisurely pace.
Essential Packing List for Rome in January
While you will need some layers in Rome in January, the temperatures are still mild so you don’t need to overpack or prepare for cold cold.
Clothing
- A good Coat: A stylish wool coat is ideal for Rome in January. It’s warm enough since the wool is a great material and you can open it if you feel a bit too warm. You can also opt for a puff jacket or a medium weight parka since it’s always good to have a waterproof top layer.
- Knit Sweaters: Pack some medium-weight knit sweaters to layer under your coat. Neutral colors like grey, black, and beige work well for mixing and matching with different outfits.
- Long-Sleeve Tops: These are perfect for layering under sweaters or wearing alone on milder days. Bring a few in different colors to mix up your outfits.
- Trousers and Jeans: Jeans and trousers are both practical and stylish which makes it ideal to explore Rome. You can easily pair them with anything.
- Winter Dresses with Tights: A knit dress paired with tights and boots can be a great option for both daytime sightseeing and evening dinners.
- Cardigans: These are extremely practical because they can be quite warm but you can also open them if you feel a bit warm. They go perfectly with jeans as well as a dress.
- Winter skirt: If you prefer wearing tights and skirts instead of trousers, that’s definitely an option. I wouldn’t recommend long and flowy skirts for this season though, a nice velvet skirt for example is ideal.
Footwear
- Knee High Boots: These are perfect if you’re planning on wearing dresses. They look great and can be very comfortable. Just make sure you’re opting for flat ones since you’ll be walking a lot.
- Comfortable Sneakers: Rome’s cobblestone streets can be hard on your feet, so bring comfortable, slightly waterproof shoes. Leather sneakers are ideal.
- Ankle Boots: Warm, waterproof ankle boots are both stylish and practical and you can wear them with any outfit.
Accessories
The accessories are actually the most important part of this packing list because while January is winter in Rome, it’s not overly cold like it is in Northern Europe.
This means that you will need good layers but you can’t take coats and sweaters that are too bulky otherwise it won’t be comfortable.
The way Romans deal with the cold is with accessories.
- Scarf: A large, warm scarf is a must for January in Rome. You can easily remove it if you’re too warm (for example if you’re visiting a museum) and wrap it once more if you feel cold. I highly recommend taking a wide one so you can also wrap it on your head if it’s too cold.
- Beanie or Hat: This is also a great way to keep you warm. Most of the body warmth leaves through the head so wearing a beanie will definitely keep you warm and if you don’t feel like you need it, you can easily put it in your purse.
- Gloves: it can be quite cold in the morning or evening so a pair of gloves is always useful.
- Small Umbrella: A compact umbrella is essential for Rome’s rainy days in January.
- Sunglasses: On sunny winter days, the low sun can be surprisingly bright, so don’t forget your sunglasses.
Bags
- Crossbody Bag, Handbag or Stylish Backpack: You’ll need a bag to carry your belongings during the day. I recommend taking one that is not too small so you can put your hat and umbrella inside. Whether you opt for a handbag or a backpack is up to you but make sure that there is a zip since there are loads of pickpockets in Rome.
- Money Belt: A discreet money belt worn under your clothes can be a lifesaver for keeping your passport, money, and cards safe. I know it’s not stylish but it’s so practical!
Electronics
- Phone & Charger
- Portable Power Bank
- Camera
- International Adapter: Italy uses type C and F outlets, so don’t forget to take a travel adapter to charge your devices.
Paperwork
- Passport
- Travel Insurance Documents
- Hotel Reservations & Itinerary
- Bank Card + Travel Money Card: I recommend using a travel card like Revolut or Wise to avoid high foreign exchange fees.
- Cash: While more and more places in Rome take cards, it’s always useful to have some cash, especially if you are planning to go to the markets or eat street food.
What to Wear in Rome in January Depending on the Weather
☀️ If it’s sunny ☀️
Wear a knit dress with tights under a wool coat. Add a scarf to complete your outfit. Knee high boots or ankle boots are ideal.
☁️ If it’s cloudy ☁️
Wear a cozy sweater with a long sleeve t-shirt underneath and pair it with warm trousers or jeans. Add your coat, scarf, and hat for extra warmth.
🌧️ If it rains 🌧️
Opt for a waterproof coat over a sweater, paired with waterproof knee-high boots. A compact umbrella and a scarf will help keep you dry and warm while exploring.
Things Not to Wear in Rome in January
- Shorts: It’s far too cold for shorts in January, even on the warmest days, so unless you’re planning on wearing winter shorts with tights, the others can stay at home.
- Heels: While stylish, heels are impractical for walking on Rome’s cobblestone streets.
- Overly Casual Clothes: Romans tend to dress stylishly, even in winter. Avoid wearing sweatpants or overly casual outfits.
Let me know if you need more travel tips or suggestions for your itinerary!
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