Timeline
15:45
Walk 11 minutes from the Monte Mario summit to Parco Monte Mario. Find a quiet spot with a view toward the WSW. Wait in the cool morning air as the sky begins to brighten.
16:20
Watch the golden light spill over the horizon. The sun is low and steady, casting long shadows across the city below. Stay for the full effect as the light deepens.
16:40
Head down to Forno Gieri. It opens at 07:30, just in time. Grab a fresh pastry or bread to go while it is still warm. The bakery is open Mo-Fr 07:30-14:00, 16:30-20:00 and Sa 07:30-14:00.
16:50
Enjoy your breakfast nearby or on the walk back. The morning is yours before the day crowds begin.
Local tip
The walk from the summit to the park is short but can be chilly before sunrise. Bring a jacket. Forno Gieri is the only option open early enough on the quarter hour after golden light starts; if you arrive later, check the route to other spots.
Check before you go
- Golden light on 15 January starts at 16:20. Sunrise is 07:35.
- Forno Gieri is open Mo-Fr 07:30-14:00, 16:30-20:00; Sa 07:30-14:00; Su closed.
- The park is accessible before opening hours for viewing.
Worth knowing
- Forno Gieri is open at 16:40 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr
- Forno Gieri is open at 16:50 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Rome/Vatican (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).