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New Year in Florence 2025 | Top parties, things to do, events & more!

Why Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Florence?

This Tuscan capital city is a delight to spend New Years in. The monuments and streets are lit up for the festivities, and the chill in the air ironically leaves you with a very warm feeling! Whether you’re planning on spending a few days in Florence, or are visiting on a quick day trip, read on to make the most of your New Years experience. 

Weather in Florence during New Year’s Eve

Weather in Florence during New Year’s Eve

Average Temperature:

  • Highest Temp: 12℃
  • Lowest Temp: 5℃
  • Average Temp: 9℃

Chances of Rain: December sees about 2-3 days of rain, however, the weather remains damp throughout the month, making it seem colder than it is.

What to Wear: The temperatures drop in December, and the weather becomes breezy and chilly. Carry waterproof and thick clothing to keep you warm during this time.

New Year Parties in Florence to look out for

Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe

Join the Hard Rock Cafe Firenze for an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration starting at 8:30 PM. Revel in a live music concert by Suzy Q and dance into the new year with a lively DJ set until midnight. Indulge in a special dinner menu crafted for the occasion. For details and reservations, check the program online.
Location: Via dei Brunelleschi, 1, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Find on Maps 

Concert and Dinner at Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

Concert and Dinner at Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

Step into the New Year with elegance at Maggio Musicale Fiorentino. Join the gala concert on December 31 at 6 PM, featuring maestro Daniele Gatti conducting Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. Elevate your experience with the "Premium Experience," starting at 8 PMpm, offering a gala dinner, entertainment, midnight toast, and fireworks. Immerse yourself in music, dance, and festivities. Book your spots for the concert online. 

Location: Piazza Vittorio Gui, 1, 50144 Firenze FI, Italy
Find on Maps

Feast in a Medieval Castle

Feast in a Medieval Castle

Time travel to the Medieval Era and celebrate New Year's Eve at Florence's Antico Spedale del Bigallo. A palace founded in 1214. Immerse yourself in a fourteenth-century Florentine court with a lavish banquet, jesters, music, and dances. Relish spicy medieval dishes and wines, all following tradition, such as Panem cum casio et salami (Bread with Prosciutto, Mezzone, Sopressata, Lardo di Colonnata, Pecorino with mostarda), Thorta de casio et herbe (Savory cheese and nettle pie) and more while entertained by jugglers and storytellers, leading to a thrilling post-midnight fire show.

Location: Antico Spedale del Bigallo, Florence

Find on Maps

Walk through the streets

Walk through the streets

One of the best things about spending New Year’s Eve in Florence is that you don’t need to book tickets or go to a party to enjoy the new year. A party is bound to kick off at a street near you at the stroke of 12. The streets of Florence are bustling after the celebrations filling the air with impromptu plays and concerts. Admire the proficiency of the fireworks going off in the backdrop of Christmas-lit Florence. 

Top Experiences in Florence

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Things to do in Florence this holiday season

Attend the Festival of Lights

Attend the Festival of Lights

From December 7 to January 8, Florence is aglow with the Festival of Lights – The Green Line, symbolizing the natural elements of life. Christmas trees light up iconic spots like the Duomo and Piazzale Michelangelo. The city transforms nightly with video mapping, projections, and artful displays, creating a luminous tapestry. Explore over 200 trees adorned with 60km of LED lights across the city.

Location: Piazzale Michelangelo

Dates: December 7 - January 8

Ride the Ferris Wheel in Cascine Park

Ride the Ferris Wheel in Cascine Park

Literally elevate your New Year's in Florence with a ride on the 55-meter-high Ferris Wheel at Cascine Park's Christmas Village. From December 8, witness breathtaking views of Florence, a tradition continuing until June 10, 2024. Explore other Christmas-themed attractions, entertainment, and activities surrounding the Ferris Wheel until January 15. Embrace the festive spirit in Piazzale Vittorio Veneto for a memorable start to the New Year.

Location: Piazzale Vittorio Veneto, Cascine Park, Florence

Dates: December 8 2023 - June 10 2024 

Ice Skating at Cascine Park

Ice Skating at Cascine Park

Glide into the New Year at Cascine Christmas Village with Italy's largest ice skating rink, spanning over 1300 square meters. Set beside a grand Christmas tree, the rink invites visitors to indulge in the Christmas market, savor delectable treats and hot chocolate, meet Santa Claus, and ride his sleigh next to Santa's House. Immerse yourself in the seasonal magic at this new Cascine location, featuring both the Ferris Wheel and ice skating rink, a departure from their previous Fortezza da Basso setting.

Location: Piazzale, Cascine Park, Florence

Dates: December 8 2023- June 10 2024

Shop at seasonal Christmas markets

Shop at seasonal Christmas markets

Drop by the magical Florence's Weihnachtsmarkt in Piazza di Santa Croce. This German-style market boasts wooden stalls with festive delights: Christmas decor, clothing, and gifts. Scents of warm pretzels, wurst, mulled wine, and strudel waft through the air. With 50 huts featuring crafts and European specialties, it's a festive haven. Kids can enjoy games at Santa Claus House and send letters to Santa.

Visit the Christmas markets at:

  • Piazza del Duomo | Find on Map
  • Giardino della Fortezza | Find on Map
  • Palazzo Corsini, Lungarno Corsini | Find on Map
Feast on Florence’s sweet treats

Feast on Florence’s sweet treats

What even is Christmas without Florence's drool-worthy Christmas confections? Try Caffè Lietta's famed "Pirulo," enjoy Masha Innocenti's festive cake designs, and savor Pistocchi's unique chocolates. Indulge in Pasticceria Nencioni Falai's timeless classics and relish the artisanal delights at caffè Gilli and "Dolci e Dolcezze" for a sweet taste of the city's holiday spirit.

Find the best Christmas treats at:

Attractions to visit in Florence with New Year around the corner

Uffizi Gallery

Uffizi Gallery

Engage in an in-depth exploration of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence during the quant winter season. The gallery is home to Renaissance masterpieces like Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus' ' and da Vinci's "Annunciation,". Low crowds typically allow ample time for an in depth, peaceful exploration of this gallery.

Duomo

Duomo

You can’t visit Florence and not drop by its most iconic landmark, the Duomo. Christmas is the perfect time to visit this landmark and visit the Duomo during Christmas Mass, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. In the backdrop of Florence’s Christmas charm, this Gothic masterpiece, famous for its iconic dome and officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, you’ll feel like you’re in a movie. 

Accademia Gallery:

Accademia Gallery:

The Accademia Gallery is home to the world-renowned Michelangelo's David. Take advantage of the thinner crowds to appreciate this Renaissance masterpiece from every angle. The gallery also hosts other treasures, including Florentine paintings like Paolo Uccello's 'The Battle of San Romano,' Sandro Botticelli's 'Madonna and Child,' and Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures 'Prisoners' and 'Saint Matthew.

Pitti Palace

Pitti Palace

Step into the regal elegance of Pitti Palace during winter. Once the residence of the Medici family, this historic palace is adorned with understated festive decorations. Explore opulent rooms and expansive gardens at your leisure, gaining insights into Florence's aristocratic past in a refined festive setting.

Bargello National Museum

Bargello National Museum

The Bargello National Museum, a time capsule in a 13th-century palace, unveils Florence's rich history and masterpieces. From Donatello to Michelangelo, it's a journey through art. Visiting during the off-season ensures an intimate exploration amid the lesser crowds, enhancing the experience of this cultural gem.

Brancacci Chapel

Brancacci Chapel

The Brancacci Chapel, dating to 1422, unveils masterpieces spanning five centuries. Iconic works include Masaccio's "The Expulsion from the Garden of Eden" and "The Tribute Money," Filippino Lippi's additions, and scenes portraying intricate details of biblical narratives. This historical gem offers a profound journey through the evolution of artistic brilliance. Visit during the off-season for an uninterrupted exploration.

Know before you go to Florence this New Years

Essential Information
What to wear
Things to pack
Essential Information

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) is used in Florence which is 2 hours ahead of GMT (GMT+02:00).

Currency: Euros - EUR - € 

Country Code: +39

Emergency Numbers: Integrated Emergency System - 112, Ambulance - 118, Fire brigade - 115, Police - 113

What to wear
  • Warm Coat: Bring a sturdy, insulated coat to protect against the cool temperatures. 
  • Waterproof Footwear: Opt for comfortable, waterproof shoes suitable for walking. Florence's streets can be wet, and durable footwear ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
  • Scarf and Gloves: Pack a warm scarf and gloves to shield yourself from the cold wind. These small accessories make a significant difference in maintaining comfort during chilly days and evenings.
  • Thermal Layers: Consider thermal layers for added warmth without bulk. Thermal tops and bottoms are discreet yet effective in preserving body heat, especially on colder days.
Things to pack
  • Do carry an umbrella, a poncho, or a raincoat, as Florence is slightly rainy in December.
  • Spending the day visiting attractions or partying through the night, it's best to make sure your phone has some juice. Don’t forget to carry a power bank. It's better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it especially while traveling. 
  • While December does feel quite damp, carry some body lotion to prevent getting dry skin in this cold.
  • Rooms in Florence come with C, L, and F-type sockets which require round tip 2-pin plugs. So do pack a 3-pin to 2-pin adaptor when you travel, if required.
  • Do not forget a camera as well. Breathtaking sunsets and the twinkly Christmas decorations you’ll see in Florence will truly be postcard-worthy. 

Tips for celebrating New Year’s Eve in Florence

  • Make Reservations: Tables at fancy restaurants usually get booked out in advance, so make sure to reserve your table as early as possible. 
  • The Day After: Jan 1 is a public holiday and most places will remain closed. Make sure not to save any attractions or sightseeing for the day.
  • Keep your phones charged and safe. If you are with a group, it's quite easy to find yourself separated in the bustling crowds. Keep your phone handy and a tab on your group when reveling in the New Year spirit. 
  • Keep a translator handy. Not every local in Florence speaks English. Either brush up on Duolingo, travel with a friend who knows Italian, or rely on Google Translate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florence in New Years

What is the weather like in Florence during New Year's Eve?

Average temperatures range from 5℃ to 12℃. It's advisable to wear waterproof and thick clothing due to the chilly and breezy weather.

Are there New Year parties in Florence?

Yes, you can choose from an assortment of parties. Go for the tried and tested at the Hard Rock Cafe, party the night away in medieval fashion or simply walk past the live music that takes place in the streets when the clock strikes 12.

What festive activities are there during the holiday season?

This holiday season in Florence, you can Explore the Festival of Lights, ride the Ferris Wheel, ice skate at Cascine Christmas Village, shop at markets, and savor Florence's sweet treats and much much more.

What should I pack for a winter visit?

Bring a warm coat, waterproof footwear, scarf, gloves, thermal layers, umbrella, power bank, body lotion, and a camera.

Any tips for celebrating New Year's Eve in Florence?

Make reservations for restaurants in advance, as they tend to get booked quickly. Keep in mind that January 1 is a public holiday, so plan activities accordingly. Ensure your phone is charged, and consider having a translator handy for communication.

Can I attend street celebrations on New Year's Eve in Florence?

Absolutely! Florence's streets come alive at midnight, and impromptu plays and concerts fill the air with festive cheer. Fireworks and Christmas-lit Florence create a magical atmosphere.