
Spring holidays in Rome, roughly around April and May, bring together church services, flowers, and centuries-old traditions. This season is one of the best times of the year to visit, offering vibrant scenes of blooming flowers as well as mild weather for enjoying all the sights of the city.
Not to mention, the Eternal City goes all out when it comes to celebrating one of the most important dates on the calendar, Easter. Read on for our guide to the best things to do this spring in Rome.
Vibrant flowers at a Spanish-style landmark
Good for: Budget, Photo, Unusual
The onset of spring is celebrated in March and April with the Mostra delle Azalee festival at the Scalinata di Trinita dei Monti (known as the “Spanish Steps”) at the Piazza di Spagna. Remarkably picturesque all year round, in spring the baroque set of steps is decorated with countless pots of vivid pink, white, and purple azaleas.
Climb from the boat-shaped fountain at the base of the steps up to Trinita dei Monti church at the top for fabulous views over Rome to the dome of St Peter’s Basilica.
Location: Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Spring’s Festival of Flowers
The city prepares for Easter
Good for: Couples, Families, History
Rome gears up for Easter with a week of ceremonies, beginning on Palm Sunday with the Blessing of the Palms, performed by the Pope in St Peter’s Square. There’s a tangible sense of excitement in the city as pilgrims from around the world arrive to experience Holy Week.
The celebrations get into full swing on Holy Thursday with a morning Mass in St Peter’s Basilica and the Mass of the Lord’s Supper in the afternoon, which is held at various locations, including a women’s prison.
Location: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Holy Week in Rome
A memorable Easter in the Vatican City
Good for: Couples, Families, History
Good Friday begins with a service held by the Pope at St Peter’s Basilica. It’s followed in the evening by one of the most memorable events in Rome when, led by the Pope, the torch-lit Stations of the Cross procession makes its way from the Colosseum to the Palatine Hill, surrounded by the candles of onlookers.
An Easter Vigil evening Mass is held in the Basilica on Holy Saturday, in preparation for the main event, Easter Sunday. Watch the Sunday morning Mass held in St Peter’s Square and hear the Pope present his personal message to Catholics worldwide.
Location: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

Experiencing Easter in Rome
A springtime tradition for fans of running
Good for: Adventure
The third weekend in March sees the city streets transformed for the Rome Marathon. The 26 mile run begins at the Roman Forum, and follows a circular sightseeing route past St Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps, before ending at the iconic Colosseum.
Even if not participating in the marathon, this is a good time to go for a springtime stroll, as the streets in Rome’s historical center are closed to traffic. If 26 miles seems far too grueling, you can always consider joining the 2.5 mile fun run instead.
Location: Via di S. Gregorio, 30, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

Rome Marathon
A delicious Easter lunch and sweet treats galore
Good for: Adventure, Families, Food
Culinary Easter traditions in Rome include soft-boiled eggs for Easter breakfast, roast lamb with spring vegetables, like artichokes and asparagus, for lunch, and sweet breads called “colomba pasquale” in the shape of a dove. Of course, let’s not forget those fantastic shop windows filled with displays of ribboned chocolate Easter eggs and every other sweet treat imaginable.
Although less edible, specially crafted Easter egg-inspired artworks can be admired at the annual Art of Easter Eggs Exhibition, held over the Easter period at the Palazzo delle Esposizioni.
Location: Via Nazionale, 194, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Discovering Easter traditions
City-wide parties and parades
Good for: Families, History, Photo
On April 21 each year, this most ancient of cities celebrates its birthday, Natale di Roma, tracing its founding back to 753 BC. The annual festivities include fireworks, street performances, and parades across the city, including mock gladiatorial games, chariot races, and historic re-enactments at the Circus Maximus and Roman Forum.
Free concerts of classical music take place at the Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and Piazza del Campidoglio on the Capitoline Hill. It’s a wonderful way to spend a warm spring evening.
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