Italy for me From Italy with love
New Year in Venice is definitely one of the most exciting nights of the year. This is when people forget about their problems and worries, plunge headlong into the festive atmosphere, exchange gifts, and celebrate New Year with their friends and relatives. But, of course, the whole world celebrates this holiday, so if you decide to change your surroundings and leave for another country, be sure: you will have a wonderful New Year’s Eve there too.
If we talk about travel on the eve of the New Year 2024, it is worth noting that the beautiful Italian city on the water is trendy in winter. And it is not surprising: Venice, which is located on a group of 118 small islands connected by numerous bridges, offers tourists a lot of opportunities for an exciting pastime. Celebrating the New Year will seem interesting and fun not only for couples in love and romantics but also for all city guests.
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What is essential to know before planning the New Year in Venice
Where to Celebrate?
San Marco Square (Piazza San Marco)
The place where the main actions occur in Venice on New Year’s Eve is undoubtedly the world-famous San Marco Square. Thousands of people gather here to count the last seconds of the outgoing year. The new year is symbolically marked by the clock striking on the Campanile di San Marco, a bell tower that is more than 98 meters high.
Sharply at midnight, mass kisses take place on the square – a new tradition that took root in Venice after the competition for the most extended kiss, and the sky above the city lights up with magnificent festive fireworks, giving the Grand Canal a fabulous look.
Keep in mind that at midnight Piazza San Marco is very crowded with people wanting to celebrate the New Year, so if you do not want to be in the middle of a busy crowd, you should look for another place from where you can observe the beautiful city on a magical night.
Perhaps such a place will be the building of the Center for Contemporary Art (Punta della Dogana), where not so many people come. Stunning views also open up from the legendary Rialto Bridge, a fantastic piece of Renaissance art.
At the Opera-house
An equally exciting way to celebrate the New Year in Venice is to attend a festive concert at the Teatro La Fenice held every night from 29 December to 1 January. The concert is broadcast live on the Rai Uno channel.
Take a Dip in the Bay
Cheerful companies who have come to Venice to celebrate the New Year can swim in the cold seawater near the island of Lido, an unusual New Year’s tradition of the locals.
In a restaurant
You can also celebrate the New Year in Venice in a cozy restaurant, enjoying a fine dinner with a glass of the Italian version of sparkling wine – prosecco.
However, it is worth considering that this is not the most budgetary option. Still, it’s worth noting that you get a festive atmosphere, excellent service, and delicious food for the money spent on New Year’s Eve dinner. If you nevertheless decide to spend New Year’s Eve in a Venetian restaurant, take care of booking a table in advance: the number of visitors during this period is enormous, and the Italians themselves are not averse to throwing a small corporate party in a nice place.
What Hotel is Best in Venice to Celebrate the New Year?
For an unforgettable New Year’s in Venice, consider hotels around St. Mark’s Square, the Grand Canal, or the Dorsoduro district. These locations are central to the festivities and provide seamless access to primary events and ideal fireworks vantage points.
Based on personal experience and feedback, these areas boast some of the best New Year’s celebration hotels. With high demand during this season, an early reservation ensures availability and provides a broader selection of hotels. If a preferred hotel is fully booked, explore neighboring ones; their prime locations will not disappoint.
Baglioni Hotel Luna – An Editor’s Top Choice
An editor’s top choice for ringing in the New Year in Venice, the Baglioni Hotel Luna is the epitome of luxury and uniqueness. Situated a stone’s throw from St. Mark’s Square, this 5-star marvel boasts unmatched convenience to Venice’s iconic spots, including prime shopping areas and the vibrant San Marco Piazza.
A standout feature is its direct water taxi access right at the hotel’s entrance. The interiors exude luxury with original frescoes and breathtaking lagoon views. Rooms are a harmonious blend of spaciousness and Venetian elegance, accentuated with antique furniture, Murano glass chandeliers, and marble bathrooms.
The hotel’s Salone Marco Polo hall, adorned with frescoes, is where guests can indulge in a lavish buffet breakfast. For gourmet enthusiasts, the award-winning Canova restaurant offers authentic Venetian dishes paired with exquisite wines. A stay here is an investment in unparalleled experiences, making every penny spent utterly worthwhile.
The St. Regis Venice
Boasting unparalleled views of the Grand Canal, The St. Regis Venice is a sanctuary of Venetian elegance. A stone’s throw from St. Mark’s Basilica, its location is impeccable, earning a couple’s rating of 9.9 for its romantic setting.
The hotel’s interiors radiate luxury with marble finishes and designer furnishings. Guests can savor Veneto region cuisine at the panoramic restaurant or unwind with a drink on the terrace bar overlooking the iconic canal. Its proximity to high-end shops, prominent landmarks like the Doge’s Palace, and the ambient Piazza San Marco makes it the perfect base. The staff’s dedication to guest satisfaction, from bespoke dining experiences to personalized room decorations for special occasions, shines through.
The Venice Venice Hotel
Nestled just 5 minutes from the Rialto Bridge and close to St. Mark’s Basilica, The Venice Venice Hotel stands as a beacon of 5-star luxury in Venice.
Elegantly refurbished, the hotel combines Venetian artistry with contemporary flair. Select rooms offer captivating city views from balconies. The on-site restaurant presents International cuisine, accommodating varied dietary preferences. Guests have hailed the seamless fusion of historical ambiance with modern comforts and exceptional water taxi services. This establishment promises an unforgettable Venetian experience.
Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel
As a beacon of elegance and luxury, the Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel offers an unparalleled Venetian experience.
Nestled just 9 minutes away from the iconic Doge’s Palace, this 5-star establishment flawlessly merges the charm of Venetian aesthetics with modern amenities. The hotel’s intricate design, attention to detail, and vast spaces showcase its commitment to quality and grandeur. Guests can indulge in a delectable breakfast amidst the serenity of an indoor garden, enriched by the exquisite herbs garden tour, a delightful experience curated by the multilingual staff.
Moreover, the rooms come equipped with the finest amenities, from plush pillows that provide utmost comfort to a complimentary minibar for the guests’ pleasure. In addition, the hotel offers a fitness center, ensuring that guests have every luxury at their fingertips. The hotel’s prime location ensures both convenience and privacy, making it an obvious choice for travelers seeking an authentic and luxurious Venetian sojourn.
H10 Palazzo Canova
Overlooking the scenic Rialto Bridge, H10 Palazzo Canova is a 4-star gem in the heart of Venice. Boasting a splendid terrace and bar, guests are treated to unparalleled views and ambiance.
Each room is meticulously adorned, offering amenities like a seating area, satellite TV, a private bathroom, and a coffee machine. Special touches, like views of the Grand Canal, elevate the experience. Visitors often rave about the exceptional service, especially the heartfelt interactions with the staff.
Whether you’re a couple celebrating an anniversary and savoring complimentary prosecco or a family bonding over captivating sights, this hotel guarantees a stay that resonates with comfort, luxury, and warmth. The rooftop bar is a cherished spot, perfect for unwinding after a day’s exploration.