Are you planning to spend New Year’s Eve in Rome? If so, you’re in for a treat! The Eternal City is full of festive events and traditions to ring in the New Year. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Rome on New Year’s Eve.
Explore the City by Foot
One of the best ways to experience Rome on New Year’s Eve is to take a walking tour of the city. Many companies offer guided tours that take you to some of the most iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps. The streets are decorated with lights and there’s a festive atmosphere in the air. You’ll also get a chance to experience some of the local traditions, such as the fireworks displays and the ringing of the church bells at midnight.
Visit the Piazza del Popolo
The Piazza del Popolo is one of the most popular spots in Rome on New Year’s Eve. It’s a large square located at the base of the Pincian Hill and is home to several landmarks, including the Egyptian Obelisk and the Church of Santa Maria del Popolo. The square is decorated with lights and there’s a stage set up for musical performances. At midnight, there’s a countdown and fireworks display that lights up the night sky.
Attend a Concert or Opera
If you’re a fan of classical music, attending a concert or opera is a great way to spend New Year’s Eve in Rome. Many of the city’s famous theaters, such as the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma and the Auditorium Parco della Musica, host special performances on New Year’s Eve. You’ll get to enjoy beautiful music in stunning venues, surrounded by a festive atmosphere.
Indulge in Traditional Italian Food
No trip to Rome is complete without indulging in some of the local cuisine. On New Year’s Eve, many restaurants offer special menus featuring traditional Italian dishes, such as cotechino (a type of pork sausage) and lentils, which are believed to bring good luck in the New Year. Make sure to make a reservation in advance, as many restaurants fill up quickly on this night.
Have a Midnight Toast at a Rooftop Bar
For a unique New Year’s Eve experience, consider heading to one of Rome’s rooftop bars for a midnight toast. Many of these bars offer stunning views of the city and are a great place to watch the fireworks displays. Some popular rooftop bars in Rome include the Hotel Raphael’s rooftop terrace and the Terrazza del Cesari at the Hotel Cesari.
Join the Crowd at Circus Maximus
Circus Maximus, the ancient chariot racing stadium, is transformed into a massive outdoor party on New Year’s Eve. Thousands of people gather here to celebrate, listen to music, and watch the fireworks display at midnight. The atmosphere is lively and festive, and it’s a great place to experience the local culture.
No matter how you choose to spend New Year’s Eve in Rome, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. From exploring the city by foot to indulging in traditional Italian food, there’s something for everyone. So why not ring in the New Year in style in the Eternal City?
