I am considering a trip to Rome over New Years. I am thinking 5 nights maybe. I have been to Rome once before. Primarily I am wondering what to expect on New Years Day. Will we struggle to even find an open cafe for breakfast/lunch/dinner? I am not worried about the weather because the averages look like it will be 20 degrees higher than it is in Wisconsin! Last time I was in Rome I did not get to see the Borghese, so that will be a priority (I know I need to make reservations). I also want to see St. Peters again and do the crypt tour (didn't do crypt tour last time). I might skip the Vatican museum and the Sistine though because we have done that. I believe the Pope always gives an address on New Years day is that correct? Do I need to do anything other than show up to the square to see this? Any restaurant recommendations? I would like to take a day trip. Maybe Hadrians Villa. Maybe Orvieto. Maybe Ostia Antica. Any feedback on those three possibilities? Preferences? If I can combine it with a wine tour - that would be great. I realize that with it being the holidays, I might be out of luck for some things (ie: wine tour). But I thought I would start here and see what you have experienced. Oh and one more thing...anyone have any experiences on celebrating New Years Eve in Rome?
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
Rome is wonderful at New Years. But yes, many businesses (no MOST businesses) are closed. You will be able to find a restaurant and tourist spots are open. The Colosseo, Vatican, and other sites are closed. The Pope does do an address in the Square. There's actually a parade to the Square - it's an interesting experience. No, you can show up along with the thousands of other folks that will be there. On New Year's Day, I'd probably stay in town as traveling town-to-town will be limited. But on the days before and after Jan 1, there is a festive atmosphere in the city. And here's a posting on New Years in Rome ***** http://tinyurl.com/ycda3w3 ******
Posted by
OP
Madison, WI, USA
524 posts
Thank you Ron! Very helpful. Your blog is great and was just perfect to give me an idea of New Years in Rome. Much appreciated. If anyone has an opinion on the daytrips I listed, I would love your input. We could only do one daytrip -so for the three listed above - is there one that you would strongly recommend over the others?
Posted by
The Hague, NL (AMS)
2207 posts
I guess I would save Tivoli (and Villa D'Este) for the spring or summer when everything is in bloom. Ostia Antica is great when you can do a picnic and wander the ruins.... so if you're going in December, I'd opt for Orvieto. This link describes Mike's visit there and has some great pics ***** http://tinyurl.com/orvieto-daytrip ******