New Year’s Eve in Milan: What to do and where to go

New Year’s Eve in Milan: What to do and where to go

From exclusive concerts to fireworks over the Duomo: A roundup of things to do in Milan on New Year’s Eve.

Whether it’s pulsing rooftop parties or breathtaking fireworks over the Duomo Square, Italy’s fashion capital knows how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style. Attend an exclusive concert at Teatro alla Scala, join the revelry at an ice-skating rink, or spend New Year’s in Milan enjoying the festivities at Sforza Castle. From intimate gourmet dinners to midnight canal cruises under the stars, here are the top things to do in Milan on New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Eve fireworks
Incredible fireworks displays at Piazza del Duomo which are free and open to the public.

Average temperature
From 35 F to 45 F (2 C to 7 C)

What to avoid on New Year’s Eve
Avoid driving in central Milan, as streets become packed with partiers, especially around popular celebration zones like Piazza del Duomo and the Navigli district.

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Head to the Duomo Square to view fireworks bursting over Milan's famous cathedral.

1. View phenomenal fireworks at the Duomo Square

Ring in the New Year in Milan’s most iconic square, where thousands of locals and visitors gather for an electrifying midnight celebration. Live music, spontaneous dance parties, and a sense of growing excitement transform the piazza into an epic street party while fireworks explode all around the Milan Cathedral.

Insider tip

Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot and dress in warm layers, as winter in Milan is usually chilly.

Address

Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milan, Italy

Find more experiences at Duomo Square

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Start the New Year on a high note at one of Milan's stylish rooftop bars.

2. Ring it in from one of Milan’s iconic rooftop bars

Wondering how to spend New Year’s Eve in Milan in style? Elevate your celebration at one of the city’s iconic and upscale rooftop bars. Venues like The Dome offer sweeping views of Milan’s skyline, including the Duomo and modern skyscrapers. From curated cocktails to live DJ sets and a spectacular view of the city’s fireworks, the rooftop parties are one of the top things to do at night in Milan if you want to start the New Year on a high note.

Insider tip

Tickets for rooftop parties are typically expensive and sell out quickly. Book well in advance, and be prepared for a dress code that matches the venue’s upscale atmosphere.

Dive into Milan’s nightlife

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The holiday decorations in Navigli provide a charming backdrop for a New Year's Eve feast.

3. Indulge in a traditional meal in Navigli

Immerse yourself in local Italian culture by booking a traditional dinner in the charming Navigli district. On New Year’s Eve in Milan, this picturesque neighborhood comes alive with restaurants and bars hosting special events and offering typical meals.

Insider tip

Try traditional New Year’s dishes like cotechino (a lucky sausage) with lentils.

Explore Milan’s culinary scene

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Photo: Giada De Pra

Milan's legendary Teatro alla Scala hosts an exclusive New Year's Eve performance.

4. Attend a concert at Teatro alla Scala

Immerse yourself in Milan’s culture by attending a New Year’s Eve performance at the Teatro alla Scala. This legendary neoclassical opera house was built in 1778 and has been a beacon of classical music and performing arts for centuries. On this special night, the program typically features iconic operas, ballets, or symphonic concerts performed by internationally acclaimed artists.

Insider tip

Tickets sell out extremely quickly, so plan and purchase well in advance to secure a seat.

Book tickets to tour the Teatro all Scala theater and museum

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Cruising the Navigli's picturesque waterways is a memorable way to ring in the New Year.

5. Take a midnight cruise on the canals

Glide through Milan’s historic waterways on a special Navigli canal boat tour. On New Year’s Eve, these enchanting cruises combine dinner, live music, and a champagne toast at midnight, providing a romantic and memorable way to wrap up the year.

Insider tip

Dress warmly and in elegant attire — these cruises are as much about the experience as they are about the views.

Explore Milan's canal district

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Ice skating at one of Milan's Christmas markets is a fun and family-friendly New Year's Eve activity.

6. Take to the ice at a holiday ice-skating rink

Cap off your New Year’s Eve with a playful twist at Milan’s festive ice skating venues. Christmas in Milan continues well into the New Year, with fairs like the Christmas Village at the Giardini Montanelli Park offering a fun and family-friendly way to extend the festivities.

Highlight

Glide across the ice, surrounded by twinkling lights, music, and a cheerful atmosphere that captures the magic of Milan’s winter celebrations.

Discover Milan’s Christmas activities

New Year’s Eve in Milan: FAQs

1. Is Milan a good place to celebrate New Year’s Eve?

New Year’s Eve in Milan is a spectacular experience that blends cultural sophistication with vibrant street celebrations. From elegant concerts to festive public gatherings, the city provides unique ways to ring in the new year.

2. Does Milan have Christmas markets?

Christmas in Milan transforms the city into a festive wonderland with winter markets running from late November through January 6. The markets at the Duomo Square, Sforza Castle, and the Christmas Village at Giardini Montanelli Park are the most popular, offering everything from traditional crafts to local delicacies and festive gifts.

3. Where can I go for New Year’s Eve in Milan?

Joining the festivities and watching the fireworks above the Duomo Square is one of the top things to do in Milan on New Year’s Eve, while the Navigli canals offer more intimate options for dinner and midnight cruises.

4. Where can I watch the fireworks in Milan on New Year’s Eve?

While the most spectacular fireworks show in Milan takes place at the Duomo, squares like the Piazza Castello and many smaller city streets also display smaller midnight fireworks to ring in the new year.

5. What’s the weather like on New Year’s Eve in Milan?

Winter in Milan is chilly, with temperatures ranging from 35 F to 45 F (2 C to 7 C). Pack a warm coat, gloves, and layers to enjoy outdoor celebrations comfortably.

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