The best places to spend New Year in Italy

As 2022 starts to draw to a close, it’s time to start looking at the best places to spend New Year in Italy. Celebrate, reflect and look forward to 2023 with your loved ones. Italians wear red on New Year’s Eve in order to fend off any evil spirits. The meals focus on lentils and grapes because lentils are seen to resemble coins which signals a wealthy year ahead. So, without further ado, here are three of the best places to spend New Year in Italy.
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Bologna New Year 

Bologna is one of the most exciting and elegant cities in Italy. Holding international status for its food, Bologna retains an authentic feel around every corner. New Year in Bologna showcases some of the oldest traditions including Fiera del Bue Grasso (fat ox fair) which is held in Piazza San Petronio. Locals decorate an ox in striking colours and ribbons before witnessing a huge firework display outside the church. As the clock strikes midnight, an old man effigy is thrown on the bonfire to mark the end of a year and a new beginning.  

Where to stay: 

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Grand Hotel Majestic, Bologna
  • Only a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers
  • Situated in the heart of Medieval Bologna
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PHI Hotel Bologna - Al Cappello Rosso, Bologna
  • Only 50 metres away from the majestic Piazza Maggiore
  • Complimentary bicycle hire
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Metropolitan, Bologna
  • Located in the historic centre of Bologna, five minutes' walk from Piazza Maggiore
  • Enjoy the chic, modern interiors and beautiful historic exteriors of the hotel
  • Relax with a cocktail as you take in the churches, winding streets and squares below
  • Perfect for couples wanting to explore the rich culture and history of Bologna
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Rome New Year 

Head to Rome and enjoy everything The Eternal City has to offer from archaeological wonders to masterpieces like the Sistine Chapel. New Year in Rome lasts for 24 hours with live music performances, fireworks, street parties and lots more. Make your way to Piazza del Popolo, one of Rome’s most famous squares, and enjoy the New Year parade, an extravagant celebration with live performers, music, and dancing.  

Where to stay: 

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Baglioni Hotel Regina, Rome
  • Situated on Via Veneto near Rome's key attractions
  • Stylish guest rooms and excellent hospitality
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Hotel Savoy, Rome
  • Close to Villa Borghese and Spanish Steps
  • Terrazza offering panoramic views of Rome
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Starhotels Metropole, Rome
  • Located in the heart of Rome, just minutes from Roma Termini station
  • A 20 minute walk from major historic sites, including the Colosseum
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Milan New Year

Milan, in northern Italy, is the epitome of elegance and glamour. With a rich history and beautiful architecture, it has lots to offer visitors. New Year in Milan is held in Piazza Duomo where you’ll find plenty of music and dancing. There’s also a free concert with street performers, stand-up comedy, dancers, singers and more. For a very special evening, pay a visit to Teatro alla Scala and enjoy a wonderful operatic performance. A night at the opera is truly spectacular and Citalia can organise this for you.  

Where to stay: 

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Sina De La Ville, Milan
  • Short walk from Teatro alla Scala and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade
  • Small rooftop pool with Duomo and views

Discover the real Italy with Citalia 

At Citalia we have 95 years’ experience in tailoring holidays to Italy. Our Italy Experts are on hand every step of the way to help you plan a wonderful Italian adventure. Are you ready to celebrate this New Year? Then give us a call today to start planning your New Year celebrations in Italy!  

Suggested Destinations & Trips

Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.
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