New year in Venice 2025: What to do, see and eat, events, fireworks
New Year in Venice 2025: a magical experience that combines history, culture, and spectacle in one of the world's most fascinating cities.
If you're dreaming of a unique New Year's Eve, surrounded by historical monuments and the shimmering waters of the lagoon, you're in the right place.
Picture the sky lighting up over the Bacino di San Marco, the fireworks' reflections dancing on the water, and a midnight toast in a romantic and exciting atmosphere.
Discover how to make the most of this special night and get ready to celebrate the arrival of 2025 in style.
Celebrate new year’s eve 2025 in Venice: Fireworks and events in the world’s most beautiful city
Spending New Year in Venice is a magical experience, as this is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to celebrate the new year's holidays. As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, Mark's Square (known as Piazza San Marco) becomes the perfect place to enjoy spectacular fireworks that light up the Grand Canal and Mark's Basin.
If you're planning to attend a new year's eve concert or new year's eve party, Venice offers a range of venues with great music and live music, making the night even more unforgettable. Many luxury hotels in Venice host exclusive year's eve dinners, often followed by private parties. Whether you choose to dine at a hotel or at a restaurant with its own kitchen, you're guaranteed to enjoy a special year's eve dinner.
For families, Riva degli Schiavoni offers a fantastic view of the fireworks. If you're visiting with children, it's a great venue to spend the new year's eve night with them. And, of course, a walk across the Rialto Bridge is a must, as you take in the city's charm on this special evening.
With many events organized across Venice, including the countdown at St. Mark's and festivities along the Grand Canal, it's no wonder that recent years have seen more people eager to spend their new year here. For those considering an overnight stay, it’s advisable to check availability in advance, as luxury hotels and other accommodations fill up quickly, especially in December.
As new year's day arrives, visitors can take part in the celebrations at San Marco or even hop on a boat for a scenic tour of the lagoon, marking the arrival of the new year in style. Whether you're looking to join a year's party or a more peaceful new year stroll, Venice's events and atmosphere provide something for everyone. Don't miss this chance to be part of one of the world's best places to ring in the new year and start your new year's day with good wishes in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Venice new year's eve night 2025
New Year's Eve in Venice is more than just a party. The city itself transforms into an extraordinary stage, with lights, sounds, and colors blending with the timeless elegance of its canals and palaces. The fireworks that light up the Bacino di San Marco are undoubtedly the highlight of the evening.
The pyrotechnic display, visible from some of the city's most picturesque spots, is a must for anyone wanting to welcome 2025 in style. The best spots to admire the show are along Riva degli Schiavoni, Riva Ca' di Dio, Riva San Biagio, and Riva dei Sette Martiri, offering a breathtaking view of the fireworks reflected in the lagoon's waters.
To fully enjoy the show, it's advisable to arrive early: the shores quickly fill with people eager to secure the perfect viewing spot. Remember, while the fireworks are visible from most of the shores, Piazza and Piazzetta San Marco do not offer a good view, so plan your route accordingly!
Venice between Christmas and New Year: The magic of the holidays
Venice during the Christmas season is a true spectacle for the senses. Walking through the city's narrow streets and over its bridges between Christmas and New Year's means immersing yourself in a magical and enchanting atmosphere, where holiday lights reflect in the canals and the scent of mulled wine mixes with the salty sea air. During this time, Venice is decorated with lights and festive decor that make it even more captivating.
The shop windows come alive with handmade nativity scenes, Murano glass items, and traditional treats like pandoro and panettone.
Between Christmas and New Year's, the city hosts many cultural events, from classical music concerts in churches to Christmas markets. Piazza San Marco and the surrounding areas offer endless opportunities to experience the holiday spirit in a unique atmosphere.
Venice new year countdown: The highlight moments
The countdown to New Year's Eve in Venice is one of the most eagerly anticipated moments. Just before midnight, thousands of people gather along the lagoon to prepare for the midnight toast. The bells of St. Mark's Basilica begin to chime, and the excitement in the air is palpable. As the bells toll, the fireworks explode in the sky, painting it with vibrant colors reflected in the waters of the Bacino di San Marco.
If you want to experience this moment from a different perspective, you could opt for a New Year's Eve cruise. Many companies offer dinners aboard historic boats, allowing you to celebrate with a prime view of the fireworks, away from the crowds.
Where to go in Venice for new year's eve?
If you're planning to spend New Year's Eve in Venice, there are several places worth visiting during the day and on the night of December 31st. Besides the already mentioned spots for watching the fireworks, here are some ideas to make your stay unforgettable:
- St. Mark's Square: Although not the best spot for the fireworks, this iconic square remains the heart of the city. Strolling between its elegant historic cafés, such as Caffè Florian, is an experience not to be missed.
- Rialto Bridge: Another symbol of Venice, the Rialto Bridge is particularly charming during the holidays, with its festive lights and views of the canals.
- Gondola Ride: Even in winter, a gondola ride can be a magical experience, especially on the calm evening waters.
- Bacino di San Marco: Naturally, this is the perfect place to enjoy the fireworks, but it's also one of the most iconic spots for a romantic walk.
December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, in Venice
If you're looking for ideas on what to do on December 31 and January 1, 2025, Venice offers a wide range of activities. You can start your day by visiting some of the city's most famous museums, such as Doge's Palace or the Gallerie dell'Accademia, followed by a traditional lunch in one of the historic center's restaurants. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the festive streets, stopping at a café for hot chocolate or mulled wine.
On the evening of December 31st, aside from the fireworks display, many city squares host events and concerts. Notably, Piazza Ferretto in Mestre transforms into a true open-air stage, with live music and special guests.
On January 1st, you can start the new year by attending the traditional mass at St. Mark's Basilica, or take a relaxing walk along the city's shores. Many restaurants offer special New Year's Day menus featuring typical Venetian dishes for the first lunch of the year.
New year in Venice 2025: What to do
Besides the fireworks and musical events, Venice offers endless possibilities to make your New Year's Eve special. You can opt for a gourmet dinner in one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, such as the Met Restaurant or Quadri, or choose a romantic dinner in a bacaro, the traditional Venetian taverns, where you can savor dishes like fegato alla veneziana (Venetian-style liver) or risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto).
If you're looking for fun, don't miss the opportunity to attend one of the many private parties held in Venice's historic palaces. These exclusive events often include lavish dinners, live music, and dancing until the early hours, offering an unforgettable experience in a luxurious setting.
New year eve 2025 in Venice: What to see
Venice is a city rich in history and culture, and there is no shortage of places to visit during New Year's Eve. Some must-see attractions include:
- St. Mark's Basilica: This masterpiece of Byzantine art is one of Venice's symbols and is definitely worth a visit, especially during the holiday season.
- Doge's Palace: One of the city's most iconic palaces, it tells the story of the Republic of Venice.
- Bridge of Sighs: A romantic and fascinating spot, best admired at night.
- Murano and Burano: If you have extra time, visit these islands, famous for glass-blowing and lace-making.
Venice at New Year's 2025: Where to go
As mentioned, there are many places to explore in Venice during New Year's Eve. If you want to immerse yourself in tradition, a visit to the lagoon's islands is a great idea.
Murano is famous for its master glassmakers, while Burano enchants with its colorful houses and lace-making. Torcello, a less frequented island, offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, away from the tourist hustle.
New year in Venice: What to eat
Venetian cuisine is rich in unique and authentic flavors. During the New Year's Eve period, many restaurants offer special menus, but if you'd prefer to opt for something more traditional, here are some dishes you can't miss:
- Baccalà Mantecato: A classic Venetian appetizer made with creamy salted cod, served with polenta.
- Fegato alla Veneziana: A main dish made of calf liver, onions, and white wine.
- Sarde in Saor: Marinated sardines with onions, raisins, and pine nuts.
- Tiramisù: The famous coffee-flavored dessert that originated in the Veneto region.
New year's eve in Venice 2025: Events
Venice offers a wide range of events to celebrate the arrival of 2025. In addition to the already mentioned fireworks and concerts in the squares, many art galleries and theaters host special performances.
One of the most anticipated events is the New Year's Concert at Teatro La Fenice, one of the world's most prestigious theaters, offering a unique experience for classical music lovers.
What to consider if you want to spend new year in Venice
If you've decided to spend New Year's Eve in Venice 2025, there are a few important aspects to keep in mind. Book your accommodation well in advance, as the city quickly fills up with tourists. Dress in layers to protect yourself from the damp winter cold typical of the lagoon.
And finally, plan your transportation ahead of time, as public transport can be very crowded, and pedestrian streets can become congested during New Year's Eve.