Fondly called the ‘Eternal City’, Rome exudes a unique festive charm! On New Year’s Eve (Capodanno Roma), the city transforms into a magical backdrop for unforgettable celebrations. From spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky to lively street parties and sumptuous cenone dinners, New Year in Rome is a bucket-list experience for anyone who loves festivities and cultural immersion. Ready to welcome 2026 amidst ancient ruins, vibrant piazzas, and the irresistible aroma of Italian cuisine? Read on to discover everything for a celebration like no other!
Top 7 Places to Celebrate New Year in Rome
When it comes to Rome New Year's celebrations, several iconic locations light up with special events and incredible energy. Each offers a distinct way to welcome the new year, from massive public gatherings to more intimate, picturesque settings. Here’s a list of the top places to celebrate new year in Rome:
1. Circus Maximus
The ancient chariot racing stadium, Circus Maximus, often serves as the primary hub for Rome's official New Year's Eve festivities. This vast open space hosts a free, large-scale public concert featuring renowned Italian and international artists, drawing tens of thousands of revelers.
How to Reach:
Easily accessible via Metro B (Circo Massimo station) or several bus lines (e.g., 81, 160, 628). Walking from the Colosseum is also a scenic option.
Top Events to Attend
- La Festa di Roma: The 24-hour event featuring free concerts, fireworks displays around midnight and traditional dinners.
- Concertone di Capodanno: A free outdoor concert with a lineup of live music performances, dance shows, and artistic installations.
Event Timing: 9 PM to 2 AM
2. Piazza del Popolo
If you are looking for a family-friendly New Year celebration, Piazza del Popolo is the ultimate spot! Regarded as the entrance to Rome City Center, Piazza del Popolo hosts an array of traditional and family-oriented NYE events comprising classical music performances and local entertainment.
How to Reach:
Metro A (Flaminio station) is right at the piazza. Numerous bus lines also stop nearby.
Insider Tip: Arrive by 9 PM to find space near the main stage
Things to Do in Piazza del Popolo:
- Watch the New Year's Day Parade to St. Peter's Square, passing through Via del Corso and Via della Conciliazione
- Join Rome's largest public NYE party with live music, dancing, and fireworks
- Admire the stunning architecture of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria di Montesanto
- Grab a hot drink at one of the cafes in the area
3. Castel Sant’Angelo
On December 31st, Castel Sant’Angelo in Rome becomes a hub of festive energy as locals and visitors gather to ring in the New Year. Overlooking the Tiber River, this historic fortress hosts lively events, including live music, performances, and dazzling light displays. At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, creating a magical backdrop for toasts, cheers, and the joyful shouts of “Buon Anno!”
How to Reach: Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano, then walk for about 10 minutes along the Tiber River.
Tips for Visiting Castel Sant’Angelo
- Arrive early to avoid heavy crowds after 11 PM
- Secure a spot at Lungotevere Tor di Nona or Bridges on River Timber (Ponte Sant'Angelo, Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II, Ponte Umberto I)
- Bring your own champagne to toast as fireworks burst over this ancient marvel
4. Lungotevere
Lungotevere, the embankments along the Tiber River, offers fantastic vantage points for enjoying New Year’s Eve fireworks in Rome, particularly those launched near Castel Sant’Angelo or from Janiculum Hill. The river itself hosts boat parties during New Year, allowing you to enjoy a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere compared to the main public squares. Many restaurants and bars along the riverbanks also host private celebrations.
How to Reach:
Various bridges (Ponte Sisto, Ponte Sant'Angelo) offer pedestrian access. Bus lines run frequently along the Lungotevere.
Things to Do:
- Take a romantic stroll, find a cozy spot with a view
- Embark on a special New Year's Eve dinner cruises on the Tiber
5. Trastevere
For a more bohemian and lively New Year's Eve, head straight to Trastevere! This historic neighborhood is famous for its vibrant nightlife, traditional trattorias, and bustling piazzas that come alive with joyful crowds and performers. Moreover, bars and restaurants across the district host several NYE events, featuring live music, DJs, and special multi-course dinners.
How to Reach:
Take tram 8 to Trastevere or numerous bus lines. It's also a pleasant walk from Ponte Sisto.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Trastevere:
- Indulge in a traditional Cenone at one of the many excellent restaurants
- Join the street party in Santa Maria Square
- Enjoy special NYE events hosted by bars and restaurants
6. Vatican City
Seeking a more reflective start to the new year? Be sure to add Vatican City to your Italy itinerary. Attending the Pope's New Year's Day Mass at St. Peter's Basilica can be a deeply moving experience to usher into 2026.
How to Reach: Take Metro Line A to Ottaviano-San Pietro station, then walk 5–10 minutes to Vatican City or take a short taxi ride.
Tips for Visiting Vatican City:
- Arrive before 10 AM for the Pope’s New Year Mass
- Buy reserved-access tickets for Papal Masses well in advance
- Visiting Vatican City on January 1st allows a peaceful contemplation amidst spiritual grandeur
7. Via dei Fori Imperiali
Via dei Fori Imperiali is the epicenter of New Year festivities in Rome. If history and music are your thing, this is the perfect place to celebrate, surrounded by ancient ruins and the Colosseum. Enjoy live music, street performances, dazzling fireworks, and festive crowds as you count down to 2026 in a truly unforgettable historic setting. During NYE, the area often hosts live bands, DJs, and entertainers.
How to Reach: Take Line B to Colosseo station and walk a little from the exit. Several buses (e.g., 51, 75, 85) stop near Piazza Venezia or Colosseo.
Timing: 9:30 PM to 2:30 AM
Things to Do:
- Experience the free festivities of La Festa di Roma
- Join the high-energy crowds in the countdown to 2026
- See fireworks over Rome’s legendary Colosseum bathed
Top 5 Markets to Visit for New Year in Rome
Exploring Rome's markets around New Year's is a delightful way to immerse yourself in local life, find unique gifts, and sample seasonal treats. While some Christmas markets might be winding down, others offer a vibrant experience. Here are the top markets to visit during New Year in Rome:
1. Piazza Navona Christmas Market
The historic Piazza Navona transforms into Rome's most famous Christmas market, traditionally running until Epiphany (6 January). It's a charming spectacle of stalls selling toys, sweets, nativity scene figures (Presepi), and local crafts. You can buy handcrafted gifts, enjoy traditional Italian Christmas treats like torrone and panettone, and soak in the festive atmosphere with whimsical decorations and street performances. Don't miss taking a spin on the carousel in one of Rome's most beautiful squares.
How to Reach: Numerous bus lines stop nearby. It's a short walk from Pantheon or Campo de' Fiori.
Dates: 1 December 2025 to 6 January 2026
2. Mercato Testaccio
For a glimpse into authentic Roman life, visit Mercato Testaccio. This modern, permanent market is a fantastic spot to grab ingredients for a celebratory meal or enjoy a casual lunch. It is best known for high-quality local produce, Roman street food like trapizzino, artisanal cheeses, and fresh pasta. Visitors can savor various local delicacies, enjoy a quick and delicious lunch and observe Romans going about their daily lives. Check holiday opening hours, as they might be reduced around New Year's Day.
How to Reach: Metro B (Piramide station) is a 10-15 minute walk. Bus lines 23, 30, 75, and 280 also serve the area.
Timings: 7 AM to 3:30 PM (Closed on Sunday)
3. Campo de' Fiori Market
Campo de' Fiori is the oldest daily open-air market in Rome, where vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, kitchenware and local products. While it's not specifically a New Year's market, its vibrant energy and fresh offerings make it a popular spot to visit during winter holidays. Explore the colorful stalls, pick up some fresh ingredients for your New Year's meal, and perhaps enjoy an espresso at one of the surrounding cafes. Markets typically close earlier on New Year's Eve and are closed on New Year's Day.
How to Reach: Easily walkable from Piazza Navona or Pantheon. Bus lines (e.g., 40, 64) stop nearby.
Timings: 7 AM to 2 PM (Closed on Sunday)
4. Mercato Monti Urban Market
Located in the trendy Monti neighborhood, Mercato Monti is an indoor market specializing in vintage clothing, handmade jewelry, art, and unique crafts. It's a treasure trove for finding one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs. Browse for unique gifts, discover emerging Roman designers, and enjoy the bohemian atmosphere of Monti, often with live music or DJ sets. Check their website for specific New Year's weekend opening dates, as it's typically a weekend market.
How to Reach: Metro B (Cavour station) is a short walk. Numerous bus lines serve the Monti area.
Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM (Opens on Saturday & Sunday)
5. Porta Portese Flea Market
If your New Year's trip extends to the first Sunday of January, don't miss Porta Portese, Rome's largest and most famous flea market. Sprawling across Trastevere, it offers an incredible mix of antiques, collectibles, clothing, and household items. Everything from antique furniture and vintage records to clothing, books, and quirky souvenirs. Bargaining is expected! Dedicate a few hours to exploring the vast array of stalls, practice your negotiation skills, and enjoy the lively, chaotic atmosphere. This market only operates on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
How to Reach: Take tram 8 to Trastevere or bus lines H, 780.
Timings: 7 AM to 2 PM (Opens on Sunday Only)
Travel Tips for New Year Trip to Rome
- Book accommodation early as demand is high
- Reserve dinner tables well in advance, especially for cenone
- Public Transport Metro runs later NYE
- Wear comfortable shoes since there’s a lot of walking to do
- Dress in layers as December nights are chilly
- Keep your valuables safe from pickpockets
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases
- Start your day early to see sights before crowds
As the old year fades and a new one dawns, Rome offers a truly magnificent setting to mark the passage of time. Whether you're clinking glasses under a sky ablaze with fireworks, dancing in a bustling piazza, or savoring a traditional Italian feast, your New Year in Rome will be filled with unforgettable moments. The Eternal City invites you to embrace its vibrant spirit and create cherished memories as you embark on a fresh start in one of the world's most captivating destinations. Book one of our Rome tour packages today and get ready to dive into the enchantment of the Italian capital!
FAQ’s - New Year in Rome
Capodanno Roma is the Italian term for New Year's Eve in Rome, a major public celebration.
The primary NYE fireworks displays in Rome are hosted near Circus Maximus or over the Tiber, which are visible from various points.
Yes, many restaurants in Rome are open during New Year’s Eve, offering special Cenone dinners. However, it is recommended to make reservations well in advance.
Rome's public transport (metro, some buses) usually runs extended hours on New Year's Eve.
During New Year, Romans traditionally eat lentils for luck and Cotechino or Zampone (pork sausage) for prosperity.
Yes, Rome is an ideal New Year destination for families. The city offers several public events and day-time activities suitable for all ages.
Most shops in Rome are closed on New Year's Day, but some tourist-oriented businesses might be open.
Yes, booking tours to major Italian attractions well in advance is advisable due to high demand during the New Year.
