Ideas for all, from a weekend in nature to great events in the city

2024 is coming to a close, and it’s time to start thinking about New Year’s Eve plans. After all, the range of options available is truly vast. Some enjoy spending New Year’s Eve in the city and going to major events, some prefer to disconnect and spend a few days in nature, while others opt for an evening at the theatre.

If you still haven’t decided on a destination for New Year’s Eve, here are three suggestions to end 2024 on a high and welcome the new year.

Happy New Year’s 2025 in Milan

One of the top ideas for New Year’s Eve is a stay in Milan. The city hosts a wide array of events on 31 December. From clubs to villas, from bars to public squares, every corner of Milan comes alive, promising an unforgettable night, often with themed parties. 

One of the most distinctive events is the Grand New Year’s Eve Dinner at the Blue Note, a historic jazz club and one of the most renowned in Italy. There are many special guests, with the main performance by the Angels in Harlem, celebrating the rich tradition of gospel choirs and creating a unique atmosphere to spend New Year’s Eve. 

The square of Castello Sforzesco, one of Milan’s most iconic landmarks, transforms into a magical setting to celebrate New Year’s Eve and enjoy the fireworks, much like Milan’s famous Piazza del Duomo.

Then, there’s Art Mall Milano, a space dedicated to art and culture located just 600 metres from the Duomo. In the heart of the city, you can welcome the New Year in an elegant loft with music, surprises and entertainment lasting all night.

The Milano Verticale | UNA Esperienze, a 4-star hotel with an international flair yet deeply rooted in authentic Milanese tradition, is ready to welcome you for New Year’s Eve 2025 in Milan. This modern and eclectic design hotel is located in Porta Nuova – Corso Como district and offers guests an array of premium services, including the Michelin-starred ANIMA restaurant and a Wellness Area.

Umbria: a New Year’s Eve escape into nature
 

Spending New Year’s Eve surrounded by nature is a captivating option, perfect for those seeking a bit of tranquillity. We recommend staying in one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, nestled in the Umbrian hills: San Gemini.

This ancient medieval village, renowned for the quality of its thermal waters, offers historical landmarks and verdant landscapes waiting to be explored. A great starting point is the imposing Porta Romana, dating back to the 18th century, which serves as the entrance to the historic centre. The main square connects the more modern and Renaissance areas to the true heart of the village.

No visit to San Gemini would be complete without a trip to the Archaeological Park of Carsulae. Here, you’ll find the remains of what was once a thriving Roman settlement. Now, an open-air museum, it features well-preserved remnants of a basilica, a theatre, an amphitheatre and twin temples.

One of the most beloved attractions in the area is the Cascata delle Marmore Falls Park, home to one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe. The park offers five trails that provide different perspectives of the waterfall, with the most enchanting viewpoint being the "Lovers’ Balcony",  which you reach at the end of trail no. 1.

If the idea of a New Year’s Eve immersed in nature appeals to you, consider booking a room at the Grand Hotel San Gemini | UNA Esperienze. This sumptuous hotel, located within the historic Palazzo dei Principi di Santacroce, is known for its love of art and the elegance of its interiors.

Catania: between old town and theatre

Catania’s historic centre is brimming with architectural wonders such as the Church of the Badia di Sant’Agata, Piazza del Teatro Massimo, Piazza dell’Università and Piazza Duomo – the city’s vibrant heart and a crossroads of art and culture. For many, spending New Year’s Eve in these areas is a cherished tradition, soaking up the authentic atmosphere of Catania.

But that’s not all. On 1 January, the traditional symphonic concert will take place at Teatro Bellini, an unmissable event. Starting at 7 pm, under the direction of Fabrizio Maria Carminati, the works of Fučik, Colabianchi, Stravinsky, Rossini, Strauss and many others will come to life.

For spending a few days admiring the beauty of Catania and celebrating New Year’s Eve, we recommend the Palace Catania | UNA Esperienze. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers a stay steeped in authentic Sicilian style. The highlight of the property is the renowned Etnea Roof Bar & Restaurant on the 7th floor, which provides breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the city’s rooftops.

Whether you love nature, big-city events or large outdoor celebrations, 31 December is the perfect setting to close out 2024 with your loved ones. Now that you know where to celebrate New Year’s Eve, all that’s left is to pack your bags, book your preferred accommodation, and get ready to enjoy the last great night of the year.