Carnival is celebrated all around the world, but like “all roads,” it likely has roots in Rome. Now a Roman Catholic celebration, Carnival takes place in the days before Lent, the 40-day period in which Catholics abstain from a chosen vice (the word Carnevale comes from carnovale, which means “removal of meat”). However, Carnival probably started as the pagan Saturnalia festival of ancient Rome.
Origins of Roman Carnival
Saturnalia suspended work and business, temporarily “freed” slaves, and eased moral restrictions. Saturn was the Roman god of agriculture, and the festivities honoring him involved decorative masks, rituals and drunken parties.
The festival was adopted in the age of Catholicism with a few adaptations. As early as 1143 AD, the Pope held ceremonies in today’s Testaccio neighborhood of Rome. This included jousting, duels, and hunting. However, it wasn’t until Pope Paul II came to power and relocated his residence to Piazza Venezia that Carnevale truly took off. The Carnival festivities moved there with him, making Via Lata (now Via del Corso) a natural setting for the most anticipated events of the Carnival: the Inaugural Parade and the Race of the Barbary Horses.
Via del Corso: track of the Berber horse race
Via del Corso was the central racetrack of Carnival. The races started in Piazza del Popolo and stretched down Via del Corso, ending at Piazza Venezia. There were races for children, elderly people, donkeys and buffaloes. One pope, Alexander VI Borgia, even introduced a race of prostitutes in 1501. Of all the competitions, the Barbary horses created the most chaos. La Corsa dei Berberi, “The race of the Berbers,” focused on a specific breed, known as the Berber horse, or Barb horse, which was bred prolifically in ancient Rome for its strength, stamina and speed. Those qualities made the animals the ideal chariot horses for competitors in Circus Maximus. Their reputation carried on into the Roman Catholic Carnival.
Noble families contributed male Berber horses to participate in the race and braided colorful ribbons into their manes. Spectators gathered at Piazza del Popolo to watch the preparation of the horses and make wagers. Uninhibited by riders, the horses galloped about a mile, finishing in Piazza Venezia, where the owners of the winning horse were presented with a decorative saddle.
Modern celebrations of Carnival across Italy
The equine race was abolished in 1874 by King Vittorio Emanuele II after a lethal accident, and since then, Rome’s Carnival festivities have gone mostly dormant. The spirit of the carnival, however, has survived through special celebrations such as those organised by cultural associations like “Il Carnevale Romano Storico”. This association operates in the fields of cultural promotion and strives to preserve the tradition of the Roman Carnival.
The last celebration of Carnival organised by “Il Carnevale Romano Storico” was held before the pandemic, but the celebrations organized in the past have included theater performances, historical re-enactments, the famous equestrian parade, fireworks, street art performances, concerts, and masquerade balls.
Jean Louis Baptiste Thomas, La festa dei Moccoletti, 1817
The modern carnival has even included the famous Candles Feast or “Festa dei moccoletti”, a group game which used to conclude the Roman Catholic Carnival. The feast took place at sunset on the evening of Mardì Gras. Participants wore decorative masks and carried a lit candle or a lantern, trying to maintain their flame while simultaneously attempting to extinguish other participant’s lanterns. If your flame went out, you were forced to take off your mask.
Some Carnival celebrations have revived in the rest of Italy too. Since its reinstatement in 1979, Venice’s Carnival has brought revellers to canals for parades in which colorful floats dance on water and acrobats twirl and balance on tightropes. Decorative masks and costumes shroud the city in mystery. The regions of Piedmont and Sicily are also known for their celebrations, which include similar events involving shiny masks, and elaborate costumes.
Today in Rome, you might see some costumed and masked characters around Piazza Navona and Via del Corso, but the holiday is mostly celebrated by children in school. Shrove Tuesday, or Martedì Grasso, falls on February 17 this year, so look out for Carnival festivities leading up to that date. Try popular Carnival foods like castagnole, the famous sugar-coated fried dough balls, or snack on frappe, which are crunchy strips of fried dough dusted with powdered sugar.
Il Carnevale dei Burattini (puppet show) | 7–15 Feb 2026 At Teatro San Carlino in Villa Borghese, this is one of the most reliable family picks: a Carnival-themed puppet show paired with a festive atmosphere designed for kids (with specific weekend showtimes and special matinées).
Tiber Carnival (Carnevale Tiberino) | Sat 14 Feb 2026, from 10:00 A playful, sport-meets-Carnival event along the river, starting at Scalo de Pinedo (Flaminio area). Expect masks, activities on the river (including canoes and similar gear), plus a costumed walk along the banks that heads toward Castel Sant’Angelo.
Carnevale for kids at Casina di Raffaello | Tue 17 Feb 2026, from 10:00 Casina di Raffaello (Villa Borghese) hosts a Carnival day for kids on Tuesday, February 17, 10:00 am–7:00 pm, with creative workshops and story readings to spark imagination and transform into funny animals and fantastic creatures. Price: €8 per child, per workshop.
Carnival Skate at the Pincio (in costume) | Sun 15 Feb 2026, 14:00 The Pattinatori del Pincio invite everyone to roll in costume. Meeting point is 14:00 at Ponte del Pincio (Piazzale dei Martiri). Families usually keep to Villa Borghese paths, while more confident skaters head farther out into the city for a noisy, confetti-filled ride.
Marconi Carnival Parade (Sfilata di Carnevale a Marconi) | Sun 15 Feb 2026, from 14:30 A classic neighbourhood parade with a very local feel: meet at 14:30 at the Parrocchia Santi Aquila e Priscilla (Via Blaserna), depart at 14:45, and follow the route through the Marconi area toward Parco Tevere Marconi, with music, masks and plenty of colour.
La Tarantella del Carnevale | Sun 15 Feb 2026, 18:00 A big folk-energy celebration at Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone: traditional masks, dancers and live music culminating in the main concert at 18:00 in Sala Sinopoli. Many editions also include a pre-show masked parade in the outdoor spaces.
Carnevale A Mare | Fiumicino, Sun 8 Feb and Sun 15 Feb 2026 For an easy day trip: on 8 Feb, the programme includes a market (morning through late afternoon) and street entertainment. On 15 Feb, the big highlight is the grand parade along the waterfront area (Via Torre Clementina zone), with groups in costume and floats.
If you’re ready to have a good time, many clubs in Rome throw carnival parties and themed events. Don’t forget, you might need to wear a mask!
We all have that image in our minds, fostered by popular culture, of a beautiful woman standing in the dark, skin lit up by candles, her eyes glimmering behind an ornate mask that gives her added mystery. She is laughing at something a man has said, holding a cocktail in one hand and leaning against a balustrade with the other. Then we get a larger view of where she is standing, the balustrade is part of a bridge, a bridge that curves over a canal. Everyone is wearing masks, dressed to the nines, celebratingan old Italian tradition: Carnevale.
How old, exactly, is this tradition? According to popular myth, it began in Venice a thousand years ago, in honor of a military victory. But like many carnival celebrations around the world (for example, Mardi Gras) it centers around Easter, and is a celebration of the more wild and debaucherous side of life just before the Catholic observance of Lent, when the ritual of fasting begins.
In this list, you’ll learn about the best cities to visit during Carnival. Rome, unfortunately, doesn’t have the best Carnevale scene, but there are plenty of other places that do. Read on, learn which tradition suits you best, and book a train and buy tickets for events to your party place of choice!
Venice
31 January – 17 February 2026
Venice is the first place we think of when we think of Carnevale. Situated in the northeast of Italy, this dreamlike city is made up of 117 islands that are connected by bridges that cross canals. The effect? Moonlight reflecting on the water. Fog rising in the night that gives the streetlights halos. Slip on your mask and into a gown, attend a grand ball, and walk through the ornate streets at night, carousing with strangers and friends.
Viareggio is a colourful seaside town, which means that the Carnival celebrations take place right on its shores. Most famous is the parade of papier-mâché floats; but this is just one of the many activities that take place over the course of a month, including night festivals, fireworks displays and cultural, artistic and gastronomic events.
For a historical Carnival experience, head to Ivrea, a town near Turin in northern Italy. Don’t miss the Battle of the Oranges, a historically-themed spectacle depicting the liberation of the town’s people from a tyrant king a thousand years ago. In addition to this spectacle, which any history buff would appreciate, there are historical costumed characters throughout the city and crowds wearing Phrygian caps, representing freedom. Other events are children’s parties and gala balls.
The city of Acireale hosts what has been voted the most beautiful carnival in Sicily, and there is a reason for this. Acireale boasts one of the oldest carnival traditions on the island, with papier-mâché floats using a combination of lights, flowers and hydraulic systems. If you want to be amazed by endless beauty, not only of the floats but also of the island itself, this is the place to be. Some events: musical performances, street performers (e.g. magicians and acrobats).
In Putignano (Apulia) the celebrations seem never-ending! Four parades, with not only the typical papier-mâché floats but also masked dancers. The different historical social classes are represented in and protagonists of the festivities: clerics, priests, widowers, young savages, married women and married men… at the end of the celebrations, fake priests run around the city shouting ‘Carnival is dead!’. Some events: visits to wine cellars, readings of poetic satire, art exhibitions.
There are endless opportunities for Carnevale in Italy, these being the most famous—but you can also check out celebrations in Milan, Verona, Alto Adige, Fano, and Sciacca. Italy is the place to be for Carnevale—so get out and party!
Valentine’s day is just around the corner and lots of us are still trying to figure out how to impress our date! But if you live in the Eternal City, you’ve got a jump on most people. We live in the mecca of love. We’ve got temples, ruins, amazing views, yummy food and hidden gems all around. There are plenty of great ways to make this day special in Rome. Give one of these a go, and we know your date will be impressed!
Living in the Eternal City has its perks. For one, we have some of the best views in the world. And what’s more romantic than admiring the views with your loved one? Take your other half to the Orange Garden, perched on top of Aventine Hill, and don’t forget to peek into the keyhole of the Knights of Malta just footsteps away. Early morning is the best time to go.
Another must-stop is Terrazza Caffarelli, between the Capitoline Museums and the Campidoglio. It’s the ultimate place to admire a picture-perfect Roman sunset. Take a romantic walk along the paths of Villa Borghese and reach the Terrazza del Pincio, looking over Piazza del Popolo: from here you can enjoy one of the most stunning views on the city center. Also in Villa Borghese, what could be more romantic than renting a small boat in the park’s lake and rowing to the small Aesculapius Temple?
The view from the Gianicolo Hill is one of the most famous of the city too, and includes the Pantheon, Castel Sant’Angelo and St. Peter’s Basilica. We suggest you go there at noon to catch a cannon that has been fired at this time since 1847, to mark mid-day in Rome.
2) A luxury staycation
To celebrate Valentine’s Day, why not book a romantic staycation at one of Rome’s luxury hotels? Many of the most beautiful and iconic hotels in the city propose special offers for the most romantic day of the year.
Rome Cavalieri is the perfect place to celebrate love. Its restaurants and spa offer a wonderful blend of luxury and relaxation, creating an ideal setting for romantic moments. Couples staying at the hotel can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of pure elegance, enjoying refined rooms and suites that exude charm. Deluxe Room from €380
Castello della Castelluccia, a romantic castle just outside Rome, is opening the doors of its elegant rooms and suites for Valentine’s Day, each one different and decorated in its own original style. Surrounded by green meadows and rolling hills, it’s the perfect hideaway for a romantic escape just minutes from the city. Overnight stays start from €180, with breakfast included.
TH Roma Carpegna Palace (Via Aurelia) is a sweet Valentine’s staycation option, with a romantic candlelit dinner featuring local wines. The package includes an overnight stay in a double room plus breakfast for two, starting from €210.
For a chic Valentine’s staycation, D.O.M Hotel Roma (Via Giulia) pairs a one-night stay with a romantic dinner at VERVE Restaurant, plus a bottle of Prosecco in the room on arrival. The offer also includes artisan-style continental breakfast and late check-out until 4:00 pm, from €350 in a Deluxe Double (or €450 in a Junior Suite Double).
At 47 Boutique Hotel, celebrate Valentine’s Day in style with the “To Rome with Love” package, featuring a romantic stay, a welcome treat, and a four-course gourmet dinner at 47 Circus. Available February 10–18. Prices vary depending on room category and length of stay.
3) A romantic dinner
Il Giardino Restaurant, Eden Hotel
If you’d rather not have a staycation, you could always treat yourselves to a fantastic dining experience for Valentine’s Day 2026. The Roman restaurant scene has prepared some special menus, either to be enjoyed at restaurants for lunch or at home for dinner.
At La Pergola, enjoy a Michelin three-star culinary journey crafted by Heinz Beck, featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Amberjack with rosehip-scented marinated celery, pomegranate and oxidised chocolate, lobster on liquorice extract, turbot with pumpkin and ultrasound-enhanced beetroot, and a Valentine’s Dessert. The evening is complemented by prestigious wine pairings and live music for a complete sensory experience. €750 per person.
Hotel Eden Rome by Dorchester Collection presents for Valentine’s Day: – At Il Giardino Ristorante, enjoy panoramic views of the city, an exquisite four-course menu, and the company of your loved one—the perfect recipe for a romantic evening. Cost: €170 – At La Terrazza, the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hotel Eden, enjoy a six-course tasting menu by Chef Salvatore Bianco for an unforgettable dining experience. Price: €340.
Castello della Castelluccia, the ultimate romantic destination, has planned a four-course seafood menu to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a truly special setting. Treat yourself and your loved one to a memorable experience immersed in the romantic ambiance of this stunning castle. €75 per person.
Follie, the fine dining restaurant at Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá, celebrates Valentine’s Day with an exclusive menu created by Chef Alfonso D’Auria that celebrates love through dishes that take guests on a journey. €120 per person.
Tiziano Terrace at Monti Palace Hotel offers a menu that includes a bottle of Franciacorta, house appetisers, a mixed platter of cured meats and cheeses, and a special Valentine’s dessert (€100 per couple). A second menu is also available for €70 per couple, including one cocktail, appetisers and the house dessert. All to be enjoyed with a view!
This Valentine’s Day, Aleph Boutique Hotel invites you to experience Vintage Romance at its Sky Restaurant on the 6th floor. Enjoy a menu inspired by tradition and reimagined with refined elegance, taking you on a sharing-style tasting journey, course after course. €109 per person.
For Valentine’s Day 2026, DonnaE Bistrot, the Elizabeth Unique Hotel’s dining concept in Via delle Colonnette, invites couples to celebrate with an elegant five-course tasting menu by Executive Chef Riccardo Pepe, blending contemporary creativity with standout flavours from Basilicata. Price: €65 per person (drinks excluded), with an optional wine pairing at €40 per person.
At Moma, Chef Andrea Pasqualucci has crafted a refined Valentine’s Day menu. Starting with grilled oyster with Margarita and dill, the tasting continues with rose, caviar and Moscato rosa sauce, followed by foie gras terrine with chocolate, rosehip and raisin bread, then “pici aglio e olio” with chilli pepper and breadcrumbs, spaghettino with beetroot, gobetti shrimps and basil, and beef with red fruits, candied turnip, Cognac and red onion. The meal concludes with sheep’s milk yogurt and raspberries. Price: €200.
At Les Étoiles, you can celebrate Valentine’s Day either on the terrace or inside the restaurant, with two dedicated tasting menus.
Restaurant menu highlights: golden cacio e pepe squid, turbot with coconut and lemongrass, royal crab tortello, and crispy red mullet with black ink, tomato fondant, and buffalo sauce.
Terrace menu highlights: sockeye salmon tartare, roasted scallops with wild mushroom parfait and truffle, and a crispy heart-shaped lasagna with scampi.
To view the full menus and reserve, visit terrazzalesetoiles.com/en/. Price €65 (terrace) – €165 (restaurant).
Il Marchese celebrates Valentine’s Day with a selection of off-menu, love-inspired cocktails created just for the occasion, perfect to toast the night in a stylish Roman setting.
For Valentine’s Day, Masa Rooftop offers a special menu crafted by the chef, perfect for sharing with your loved one. Enjoy the evening with live music, all while dining under the stars and taking in a breathtaking view of Rome. Read the menu here. Price: €120.
Anavà, the new restaurant bringing the most authentic cuisine to the heart of the Capital, is also offering two special set menus for Valentine’s Day, accompanied by live music. Read the menu here. Price: €95.
For Valentine’s Day, Avenida Calò (Francesco Calò’s wine-focused pizzeria in the Olimpico area) hosts a romantic candlelit blind tasting: six courses designed by the award-winning pizzaiolo, plus pre-dessert and dessert. €80 per person
In the heart of Prati, Antela is the restaurant and cocktail bar that turns the NH Collection Roma Centro’s garden into an urban-jungle oasis. Chef Natale Giunta serves a gourmet menu inspired by top Sicilian and Italian ingredients, alongside sushi and creative dishes, while mixologist Daniele Zandri crafts original cocktails inspired by Latin sayings. Naturally, there’s also a special Valentine’s Day offering to celebrate the night in style. Price: €95.
4) Romantic experiences
Looking for a unique way to spend Valentine’s Day with your loved one? How about enjoying a jazz concert and dinner at Rome’s oldest jazz club, Alexanderplatz? Nestled in the lively Prati district, this iconic venue hosts a variety of Italian and international artists daily. The intimate ambiance of the club provides a timeless escape for a romantic evening.
For a more thrilling experience, explore Rome on a fun panoramic ride on a vintage Vespa. Ride by the Colosseum, Vatican, the Temple of Venus and many more sights experiencing everything the Eternal City has to offer. Take amazing pictures from beautiful scenic viewpoints and taste a bit of Rome by stopping for gelato and Roman street food.
For wine enthusiasts, treat yourself to the ultimate wine tasting experience at a charming boutique wine bar just steps away from Campo de’ Fiori. Immerse yourself in the expertise of the sommelier as they guide you through a delightful journey across Italy’s diverse wine regions.
Uncover the timeless charm of the Aventine Hill, a perfect romantic escape in the heart of Rome. Wander through medieval Christian monasteries and historic basilicas, pause in the enchanting Orange Garden. Don’t miss the secret keyhole perspective, offering a magical, hidden glimpse of Rome. End your journey with a sweet treat while soaking in the views of the Circus Maximus. For couples who love history, culture, and a touch of romance, this is an experience not to be missed!
We all wanted our own treehouse as kids. A place where we could unwind, relax and feel disconnected. But who said treehouses are only for children? Imagine a secret hideout, tucked away in the woods with beautiful views. Your private wooden shack suspended 8 meters from the ground. Cozy wooden walls, a private balcony overlooking the trees, completely immersed in the sounds of nature. If that’s not romantic, I don’t know what is. The good news is you don’t have to build your own treehouse, this time. You just have to get yourself to Viterbo to La Piantata, where your treehouse awaits and they will arrange the rest.
6) A surprise day trip to the lake
As Romans, we’re so lucky to be an hour away from lakes, beaches and mountains. If you’re able to take the day off, a day trip to the beautiful Lake Bolsena is the perfect way to spend your Valentine’s Day. Just an hour and a half from Rome, you’ll come across the beautiful lakeside town of Capodimonte – the gem of Lake Bolsena. Take a romantic walk along its lakefront, filled with cafes and gelaterias. Have a gourmet lunch along the lake at Pepenero and unwind afterwards by strolling the streets of its charming centro storico.
7) A day full of relaxation and wellness at Roman spas
Villa Agrippina Gran Meliá Spa
Enjoy some relaxation with your partner by enjoying a thermal treatment together.
Cavalieri Grand Spa Club celebrates love with a wellness, art, and Dolce Vita experience designed to share with friends and loved ones. Choose one treatment, either a facial or a massage, then unwind in the wet areas, relaxation room, and indoor pool. Finish with a blowout, complete with a complimentary glass of Champagne, and reunite at the Tiepolo Lounge for a signature cocktail in a refined setting. Price: €500.
From 1 to 15 February, The Eden Spa presents “Abbraccio d’amore”, a couples’ ritual designed to promote deep relaxation and emotional connection, featuring warm HöbePergh body wraps followed by the application of the Rich Nourishment Body Cream to nourish and brighten the skin. The experience ends with a private toast in an intimate, refined atmosphere. €250 per person or €480 per couple.
The Villa Agrippina Spa, a true wellness boutique, invites couples to unwind with its “Couple Rituals” experience, available throughout February. Two hours of total relaxation include access to the heated outdoor whirlpool pool, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, sensory showers, and relaxation area, followed by two fully customizable one-hour massages. The ritual ends with two flutes of Champagne served with strawberries. Couple Rituals for two: €320.
For couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day with pure relaxation and connection, Six Senses Rome Spa offers the SPA Cuddle Day Experience, including access to the Roman Baths, a 60-minute candle massage for two, and a Valentine’s aperitivo at BIVIUM Bar for a refined, intimate finale. A perfect way to slow down, reconnect, and share a truly restorative moment. €420 per couple
Discover the new Trevi Fountain access rules, and which museums are now free for Rome residents
From 1 February 2026, Rome will introduce a €2 ticket for tourists and non-residents who want to step into the Trevi Fountain’s inner perimeter (“catino”) – basically the close-up area by the water and steps where everyone lines up for the classic coin toss and selfie.
The key point: the Trevi Fountain remains free to see from the piazza. The new fee only applies if you want the front-row, right-by-the-water spot.
Online via the official site listed as fontanaditrevi.roma.it (not yet active)
Via Sistema Musei ticket offices
At Tourist Infopoints
Through affiliated/partner sales points
Planning tips (so you don’t waste time)
If you just want the iconic view: skip the ticket and enjoy the piazza.
If you want the “coin-toss spot” photo: go early (right after 9:00) or aim for later in the evening.
Expect the inner area to operate with regulated flows/capacity, meaning you may queue even with the €2 fee.
What’s changing for Rome’s civic museums
The Trevi ticket is part of a broader reform affecting museums and monuments managed by Roma Capitale.
Big change for locals
From 1 February 2026, residents of the Metropolitan City of Rome will get free admission to the city-run museums and archaeological areas (including major ones like the Capitoline Museums, Ara Pacis, Trajan’s Markets, Centrale Montemartini, and more).
Step into 2026 with flair by attending a cultural event at one of the city’s museums, libraries, cinemas, music halls, and more.
The central theme of ROMA CAPODARTE 2026 will be the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Italian Constituent Assembly (1946–2026). Taking place on January 1, the initiative will once again enliven Rome with a city-wide cultural marathon featuring over 100 events, almost all free of charge, across every neighbourhood.
This fifth edition aims to honour the journey toward freedom that emerged from the resistance against Nazi-Fascism and laid the foundations for our democracy. To underline the value of this legacy, 10,000 copies of the Italian Constitution will be distributed free of charge throughout the day during events held across all 15 of the city’s districts (Municipi).
On January 1, the city hosts 100+ events across squares, museums, theatres and venues in every neighbourhood, with three main stages lighting up different areas of Rome.
Piazza Navona kicks off at 3:30pm with a comedy line-up (Beatrice Rigillo, Emanuela Cappello, Raffaello Corti “Faccestamagia”, and poet-performer Lorenzo Maragoni), then from 6–10pm becomes a tango ballroom for the New Year Milonga with tango icons Daiana Guspero and Miguel Ángel Zotto, followed by DJ Lavinia Livi.
Outside the centre, Rampa Prenestina (Municipio V) hosts a live concert-show from 6pm with Andrea Rivera, Margherita Vicario, Villa Ada Posse, StabLinda, and Baro (with vocalist Lyst), plus six art installations.
At Acilia Station (Municipio X), from 6pm there’s a K-POP show with dance and meet & greet, followed by hip hop/breakdance crews; from 8pm a rap-focused stage features Piotta, Nesli, Beba, and Jelecrois.
Live Music & Performances
On January 1, live events take over squares, museums and theatres across the city. In Via Margutta (3–6pm), an open-air concert alternates music with readings from the Italian Constitution. At the Capitoline Museums (6:30pm), actors Massimo Wertmüller and Anna Ferruzzo present a staged reading from Homer’s Iliad with live music, turning epic into a contemporary reflection on peace and the Constitution’s rejection of war.
At Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone (3–8pm), Il Primo Ballo is a city-wide dance “invasion” featuring tango, swing, balfolk, urban dance and standard ballroom across indoor and outdoor spaces, plus a workshop-performance on manipulative rhetoric (Come parla il perfetto dittatore, 5pm). Elsewhere, concerts and shows continue in multiple districts—from swing with Constitution-themed readings (Piazza Balsamo Crivelli) to community performances (Piazza Roberto Malatesta), a Constitution-focused show with the inclusive Blind Inclusive Orchestra (Teatro Tor Bella Monaca), and an intergenerational programme of music, theatre, readings and comedy at Pinispettinati (Municipio VII). The day also includes a theatre piece on Artemisia Gentileschi (Ex Fabbrica Campari) and a musical marathon at Ponte Milvio featuring readings on freedom of expression, art and culture.
Talks, Readings & Cultural Itineraries
At Palazzo Esposizioni (6pm), a reading-performance tells the story of Adele Bei, one of the “mothers” of the Constituent Assembly. In Piazza Cina (3:30–6pm), Constitution readings are paired with a talk by social educator Azzykky. Teatro del Lido (6pm) hosts Madri Costituenti, a reading and discussion inspired by Piero Calamandrei’s 1955 speech and the stories of the women of the Constituent Assembly.
In Largo Alessandrina Ravizza (3:30–7pm), artists and residents co-create three murals, each dedicated to a constitutional value, accompanied by live readings. Four themed cultural itineraries explore symbolic places in Rome linked to specific constitutional articles (including routes in Villa Borghese, Porta Maggiore, and San Lorenzo), plus visits to the Bunker at Villa Torlonia (3pm and 4pm).
Cinema & Screenings
In Trastevere, Spazio S.c.e.n.a. presents a New Year film programme with a tribute to Gian Maria Volontè (Il terrorista, 4pm) followed by Paola Cortellesi’s C’è ancora domani (6pm). At Casa del Cinema (Villa Borghese), two Vittorio De Sica classics screen: Sciuscià (11am) and Ladri di biciclette (8pm), alongside the documentary Figlio di Giano (5pm). Nuovo Cinema Aquila hosts an event focused on Article 1 (“Italy is a democratic Republic founded on work”), with discussion and selected documentary excerpts, plus a screening touching on globalisation.
Activities for Children & Families
At La Pelanda (Mattatoio) from 3pm to 7pm, La Repubblica del gioco offers cooperative games, collective building activities, circus practices and performances inspired by constitutional principles such as community, participation and freedom. Palazzo Esposizioni hosts a kids’ art workshop (Dritti ai Diritti, 4:30–6pm) focused on imagining new rights and creating posters. In Municipio V, Teatro Biblioteca Quarticciolo runs a creative writing lab (4pm) linked to Article 21 (freedom of expression).
Several public libraries also join with themed readings and displays tied to key constitutional articles (work, peace, freedom of thought, culture/environment, equality).
Theatre, Music, Cinema & Encounters
The day opens with the traditional concert by Rome’s Local Police Band in Piazza di Spagna (12pm). The Teatro dell’Opera di Roma proposes La prima Opera buona dell’anno (from 3:45pm), with music, talks and guests, plus a photo exhibition in the foyer. Palazzo Esposizioni hosts a special literature–cinema–memory route that ends with a film screening, while Casa del Jazz features a live concert (6pm).
Across the city, additional concerts and events take place in museums and cultural venues, Ara Pacis, Capitoline Museums, Palazzo Braschi, Centrale Montemartini and Villa Torlonia, alongside talks, DJ sets, electronic music takeovers, theatre performances and monologues.
Many civic museums and the temporary exhibitions they host are free to visit throughout the day, along with major venues such as Palazzo Esposizioni, the Mattatoio and MACRO. A few flagship exhibitions are available with reduced admission, and some experiences require advance online booking (including Circo Maximo Experience, Villa Torlonia’s Bunker visits and Planetarium shows).
Several archaeological areas are also open, while curator-led visits and guided tours by the Sovrintendenza Capitolina offer deeper insights into exhibitions and collections, including special walkthroughs at the Capitoline Museums, Ara Pacis, GAM and Palazzo Braschi.
All information is available at www.culture.roma.it/romacapodarte, 060608 (daily from 9am to 7pm) or on social profiles #romacapodarte2026
A New Archaeological Metro Axis in the Heart of Rome
After years of construction, Rome has finally inaugurated two new stations on Line C: Colosseo–Fori Imperiali and Porta Metronia. They opened to the public on 16 December 2025 in a ceremony attended and officially inaugurated by Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, marking a historic step for mobility in the city.
The new section connects San Giovanni to Via dei Fori Imperiali, about 3 km of underground line in the very heart of Rome, bringing the total number of Line C stations to 24. The Colosseo–Fori Imperiali stop becomes the line’s second major interchange, now crossing:
Line A at San Giovanni
Line B at Colosseo, via an internal tunnel connection between the two stations
For the first time, the eastern outskirts are directly linked to Rome’s archaeological core.
Colosseo–Fori Imperiali: An “Archaeostation” Between the Colosseum and the Basilica of Maxentius
The new Colosseo–Fori Imperiali station sits in a unique archaeological context, between the Colosseum and the Basilica of Maxentius, directly beneath Via dei Fori Imperiali.
At a depth of 32 metres, the architectural project is inspired by a major discovery made during excavation: 28 Republican-era wells and a domus found at great depth. These finds shaped both the structural solutions and the narrative approach to the future “archaeostation”.
Inside the station, the access route down to the platforms is designed as a small underground museum: along corridors and mezzanines you’ll find display cases, panels and multimedia installations that recount the history of the excavations, the artefacts discovered and the transformation of the Fori area over the last century.
From a functional point of view, the station offers:
Direct exits onto Via dei Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum area
Immediate interchange with Line B via the internal tunnel
A potential reduction of surface traffic, thanks to a new underground axis linking peripheral areas and the historic centre
Porta Metronia: Five Underground Levels Beneath Piazzale Ipponio
The new Porta Metronia station stands in Piazzale Ipponio, between San Giovanni, the Celio and Appio Latino, serving a densely populated area close to parks, schools and healthcare facilities. The station is spread over five underground levels, connected by escalators and next-generation lifts, with bright, spacious architecture designed to handle passenger flows smoothly.
During excavation, archaeologists uncovered a remarkable 2nd-century AD military barracks, with frescoed rooms, mosaic floors and the domus of the commander, along with later residential structures. Part of these remains has been reinstalled and integrated into the station itself, which is also set to become a true “station-museum”.
The opening of the archaeological exhibition area at Porta Metronia is scheduled for February 2026: visitors will be able to view the remains in situ from walkways and glass viewpoints directly along the metro route.
For now, the platform level is already operational, providing a new fast access point to Line C from this part of the city.
The Current State of the Metro in Rome
With these new stations, Line C now links Monte Compatri/Pantano to the Colosseum, crossing eastern and south-eastern Rome and interchanging with the other metro lines:
Line A: Anagnina–Battistini (east–west axis)
Line B/B1: Laurentina–Rebibbia/Ionio (north–south axis)
Line C: Pantano–Colosseo, with future extensions planned towards Piazza Venezia, Chiesa Nuova, St Peter’s and Clodio–Mazzini
Line C remains fully automated (driverless), with platform screen doors and advanced monitoring systems.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Rome with Rome New Year’s Eve fireworks, parties, and more that carry on into 2026 New Year’s Day.
Planning to spend New Year in Rome? It’s always a bit difficult to decide what to do on New Year’s Eve in Rome. Whether you prefer to ring in the New Year in a crowded club, in one of the major piazzas in Rome, or at home with a glass of champagne and some friends, we have many suggestions to make your New Year’s in Rome unforgettable. Discover the Best New Year’s Eve Events in Rome.
Check out the best venues for New Year’s Eve in Rome
Les Etoiles Restaurant and Roof Garden
Les Etoiles Restaurant | Via Giovanni Vitelleschi, 34 (Prati)
GALA DINNER MENUAT LES ETOILES RESTAURANT (with live music)
€490 (wines excluded)
DINNER MENU
Sicilian Scampi and pink grapefruit shot Roasted Scallop with champagne and caviar Lobster Medallion, fennel sablé and yuzu mayo Cappellaccio with Red Mazara Prawns and buffalo stracciatella John Dory Fillet with beurre blanc, Madagascar pepper and potato millefeuille Golden Pearl with smoked whisky and caramel Meringue Cake with chocolate cream, date and tonka bean Traditional Cotechino sausage and Castelluccio lentils
MENU LIGHT DINNERAT SALA MICHELANGELO / TERRAZZABEL RESPIRO (with dj-set)
€270 (wines excluded)
DINNER MENU
Savory Mini-Maritozzo with lobster, green apple with wasabi and caviar Soy-marinated Tuna Tataki, leek fondant, ginger gel and yuzu air Dumpling with turbot mousse in clam sauce and grey mullet bottarga Monkfish “all’acqua pazza” Meringue Cake with white chocolate cream, date and tonka bean
Welcome oyster with green apple and chives Raw scallops, pea gazpacho, tomato gel Lobster risotto with fennel cream and Lapsang tea Paccheri in a fish soup with mixed cherry tomatoes Meagre fillet with crispy vegetables, hollandaise sauce and sautéed Roman artichoke wedges Hazelnut and passion fruit cream with cardamom crumble Wine selection curated by the sommelier
Chorus Café | Via della Conciliazione, 4 (Vatican)
Prezzo: €245 (wines included)
DINNER MENU
Amuse-bouche Shellfish, bread and tomato
Starters Capon with bitter herb salad, salted zabaglione, sour cherries and fish roe
First Course Violina pumpkin soup, glazed scallop, dried porcini and rosemary
Pasta Course Langoustine ravioli, oyster butter and Mangalica pork coppa
Main Course Veal tournedos, Périgourdine sauce, fine black truffle and seasonal vegetables
Dessert Dark chocolate “Tenerina”, contrasted with raspberry gelée
Choux pastries filled with chantilly and Port zabaglione, citrus caramel
After Midnight Onano lentils
Wines: Cremant de Loire Brut 2021 – Château des Cossé, Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2023 – Domaine de La Motte, Cheverny Rouge “La Moniale” 2024 – Domaine Le Portail
Il Marchese | Via di Ripetta, 162 (centro storico)
Price: €180-300
Grand Dinner + Midnight toast (20:30-00:30) €180 Grand Dinner + Midnight toast + after dinner table reserved with 1 bottle of Champagne every 4 people (8.30 pm-3am) €250 After dinner reserved table + Champagne max 5 people (00:30-3:00) €300 After dinner entrance with 2 drinks €60
FOR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS EMAIL: info@anavaroma.it
NEW YEAR DINNER & PARTY at Alcazar Live
Alcazar Live | Via Cardinale Merry Del Val , 14 (Trastevere)
from 8pm €120 (party included) with open wine to accompany your dinner + table reserved all night long €87 (party included) with open wine to accompany your dinner + table reserved until 11pm €45 access to the party from 11.30pm
VINYL BAR – DINNER – DJ SET
DINNER MENU
Welcome glass of Prosecco Spinach flan with burrata and Cantabrian anchovies Risotto with raw and cooked prawns and pistachios Pumpkin and amaretto raviolo on lemon-sage butter sauce Cod fillet on a bed of chickpeas Cotechino sausage with lentils Chocolate bûche
Elio & Lobby at The Hoxton Hotel | Largo Benedetto Marcello, 220 (Parioli)
DINNER + PARTY – Price: €160 (beverage excluded)
A 5-course NYE set menu, paired with 2 Pommery Champagne toasts, soundtracked by a live performance from Crés — smooth, soulful, and perfectly timed. > Dinner guests flow straight into the Lobby Party.
LOBBY PARTY – Price: €65 (2 drinks included)
The Lobby comes alive with SUPERNOVA and RIVERSIDE, joined by Vertigine’s resident dj Areld, delivering a late-night set designed to lift the room and carry us into the new year.
Uma Restaurant | Via Girolamo Benzoni, 23 (Garbatella)
Price: €150 (beverage excluded)
MENU
Liquid salad Eggs Potato and truffle Beef Cuttlefish Scorpionfish raviolo Quail Honey Dairy dessert Lentils and cotechino sausage
FOR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS WHATSAPP / TEXT +393343855945
NYE Dinner at Nuan Restaurant
Nuan Restaurant | Via Siria, 3 (Appio Latino)
Price: €100 (beverages excluded)
MENU
Crudo (mixed local raw fish and shellfish) Fritto (mixed fried fish and garden vegetables) Arrosto (prime fillet of the catch of the day with jus) First course (soup) Dessert (our own take on panettone)
FOR INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS WHATSAPP / TEXT +39.0669401880
Mirabelle Restaurant at Hotel Splendide Royal
Mirabelle Restaurant | Via di Porta Pinciana, 14 (Veneto)
For some years now, New Year’s Evein piazza has become fashionable in most Italian and European cities. In the most beautiful squares, on the longest night of the year, streams of people gather to celebrate together while listening and moving to live music concerts and other performances. Rome is no exception, and this year’s event promises to be a mega concert starting at 9pm, followed by a DJ set by the local radio station Dimensione Suono Roma. The event will take place at Circo Massimo and is completely free of charge. Initially, the lineup included Alessandra Amoroso, Fabri Fibra e Tananai.
Fireworks
Where to see fireworks in Rome on New Year’s Eve
The best spots in Rome where to enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks displays are many. Starting from the magnificent Colosseum, an already suggestive and exciting scenario, to Castel Sant Angelo, where light plays with water from the river, to Piazza del Popolo, after a nice walk in the centre, or the Pincio terrace just above. Among the squares, another wonderful option is Piazza Navona, but for a slightly more global view, one of the city’s heights, such as the Gianicolo hill, the Zodiac at Monte Mario or the Giardino degli Aranci, is better. Whichever spot you choose, don’t miss Rome at its best!
Shows at Theatre/Music Hall on New Year’s Eve in Rome
The Nutcracker
Teatro dell’Opera | Piazza Beniamino Gigli, 1 (Esquilino)
Where to buy the best pandori, panettoni and Christmas gift baskets in Rome?
Yet another Christmas is here. To warm up our spirits we turn to the classic holiday sweets and gift baskets filled with sparkling wine, cookies and cured meats, to enjoy with our family or to gift to others. Here is our selection of the best bakeries and pastry shops in Rome where you can purchase Christmas baskets, pandoro and artisan panettonein Rome this holiday season.
Cristalli di Zucchero is a sure thing when it comes to holiday leavened cakes. Marco Fontana works his panettone with sourdough starter and long proofing times, adding French butter and flour blends (including rye, spelt, and wholewheat) to give the dough extra aromatic depth. The traditional version with raisins and candied fruit sits alongside creations like three chocolates, IGP pears and dark chocolate, wholewheat with marron glacé and pecan nuts, or buckwheat and rye with Annurca apple and caramel. There’s also a savory option with semi-dry tomatoes and Taggiasca olives, perfect for a festive aperitivo.
Via di Valtellina, 114 1 kg panettone around €40 (also 300 g size)
Patrizi
The Arcangelo Patrizi pastry shop is a classic of Lazio’s Christmas season, with indulgent, warmly scented leavened cakes: butter, milk, vanilla, plus notes of cocoa and dried fruit. Alongside the classic panettone, the range includes several variations — lactose-free, marron glacé and gianduia, chocolate and strawberries, sour cherries and marzipan — all with a soft, aromatic texture, ideal for those who love very rich panettone without heaviness. It’s the right address if you’re after a traditional sweet with a generous Roman twist.
Cresci is a bakery, bistro and osteria just steps from St. Peter’s, but at Christmas everything revolves around the panettone signed by Danilo Frisone. The dough, naturally leavened over 48 hours, is even richer this year thanks to the addition of Isigny French butter, Molino Dalla Giovanna flours, Peppovo organic eggs, Morandin candied fruit, and plenty of vanilla. The result is an intensely fragrant panettone with a soft, velvety crumb, available in a classic version or with candied apricots and chocolate. The Christmas selection also includes panforte, panpepato, torrone and biscuits — but the king is always the panettone.
Via Alcide De Gasperi, 11/17 Panettone 1 kg €40
Eataly
Eataly celebrates Christmas with the Eataly Icons line, an exclusive selection of artisan panettone and pandoro made in Italy with top-quality ingredients and over 48 hours of leavening. The collection includes the Classic Panettone with raisins and candied orange, also in an elegant tin; the new Three Chocolates Panettone, rich and without candied fruit; the White Chocolate Panettone with Pistachio Cream, perfect for an extra-indulgent dessert; and the fragrant Limoncello Panettone, made with Italian citrus. Completing the range is Eataly’s Pandoro, soft and fragrant, prepared with fresh eggs and Bourbon vanilla. All products come in FSC-certified packaging, confirming the brand’s commitment to a more sustainable supply chain.
Eataly Roma Ostiense, Piazzale 12 Ottobre 1492 Eataly Panettone € 39,90; Classic Panettone in a tin € 52,90; Eataly Pandoro € 34,90
Le Levain
Le Levain is now one of Rome’s key addresses for signature, high-end leavened cakes. In the Trastevere lab and the new café on Via Piave, panettone is made with a double dough and over 50 hours of leavening, stone-milled flours and Isigny butter. The classic is elegant, rich in candied fruit and citrus aromas; the Django (chocolate dough with semi-candied raspberries) and Moana (semi-candied berries, pistachio praline, passion fruit cream) versions nod to modern pastry while keeping a strong identity. It’s French in spirit, yet deeply Italian in its respect for tradition.
Via Luigi Santini, 22 – Via Piave, 9 Classic panettone 1 kg €38 – Django, Moana and Caramel Pecan panettone 1 kg €48
Casa Manfredi
At Casa Manfredi, Christmas is Giorgia Proia’s kingdom: big leavened cakes that raise the bar every year. Long natural leavening (around two and a half days of work), three refreshments of the sourdough starter, and a rigorous selection of butter, flours, candied fruit and chocolate. Alongside the classic Milano, the 2025 line features several glazed panettone — coffee and sour cherry, dark chocolate and pear, cocoa three chocolates, apricot and gianduia — plus an impressive pandoro. The panettone have a stretchy, stringy structure, a thin glaze, and a “clean” aromatic profile, making them perfect as a gourmet gift too.
Viale Aventino, 91/93 – Via dei Conciatori, 5 Panettone 1 kg €45 – Pandoro 800 g €45
Antico Forno Roscioli
At Antico Forno Roscioli, panettone is, first and foremost, bread: a rustic dough, careful baking, and sold by weight — just like a traditional bakery. Sourdough starter, selected flour, butter and eggs are worked without added flavorings, letting the candied fruit (Morandin or Agrimontana) and Valrhona chocolate speak for themselves. Alongside the classic, the pear-and-chocolate panettone, apricot-and-caramel, the raisins-only version and the lactose-free classic are all highly sought-after. It’s Roman at heart, with a bold aromatic profile and a texture that holds its own.
Via dei Chiavari, 34 Panettone in 500 g, 750 g, 1 kg (with special sizes up to 5 kg) starting from about €30/kg
Pasticceria Gruè
Marta Boccanera and Felice Venanzi, in the Coppedè neighborhood, craft some of the city’s most technical panettone. The classic almond-glazed version is an exercise in balance: a moist, stringy crumb rich with fruit, dotted with Tahiti vanilla, and wrapped in a crunchy, even glaze. The award-winning Gianduioso builds on a gianduia dough with Ecuador 60% chocolate, Piedmont IGP hazelnuts and single-origin chocolate drops: indulgent, yet never heavy. Completing the selection are variations like Pear Williams and chocolate, Exotic, Sacher and Caramela, along with pandoro.
Viale Regina Margherita, 95 Classic almond-glazed panettone 1 kg approx. €46 – Gianduioso and other special variations 1 kg €50–52
Pasticceria Walter Musco
Walter Musco has long been one of the leading names in contemporary Roman pastry, and his panettone are the natural expression of it. The dough is soft, buttery and perfectly leavened; flavors change year by year, but the big classics never disappear: almond-glazed, chocolate, sour cherries and poppy seeds, apricot, gianduia and tonka bean. Each taste is designed like a small “cake” to explore slice by slice, with complex yet readable pairings. The glaze is compact and even — the seal of meticulous craftsmanship.
Largo Bompiani, 8 Classic panettone approx. 1 kg €42 – Chocolate and fruit variations €45
Micro Forno Luca Pezzetta
Luca Pezzetta applies to panettone the same obsession with sourdough that made him one of Lazio’s most interesting pizza makers. Three doughs, three rises, 48 hours of work for a big leavened cake that’s soft and fragrant, made with flour from Marche grains, French centrifuged butter, raisins, candied orange and Bourbon vanilla. The result is aromatic and long on the palate, with a full yet feather-light chew. Alongside the classic, there’s a more indulgent chocolate version, with creams and dark chocolate chunks that never overpower the personality of the sourdough. Limited batches — pre-order recommended.
Via Giovanni Battista Grassi 22, Fiumicino Classic or chocolate panettone 1 kg €45
Sintesi
At Sintesi, panettone is the natural extension of Matteo Compagnucci’s contemporary cuisine: essential, clean, deeply technical. The dough, based on sourdough starter and selected flours, is scented with candied lemon and tonka bean, creating a citrusy, gently spiced bouquet that lingers on the palate. The crumb is soft and stringy, never cloying, with a measured sweetness that invites the next slice. This panettone speaks the language of the restaurant: few elements, calibrated with extreme precision. Available in limited quantities and by reservation only, to be collected in the dining room in the days leading up to the holidays.
Viale dei Castani 17, Ariccia (RM) Classic panettone 1 kg €38
Zampa – Forno Etico
Zampa is the neighborhood bakery that has turned the word “ethical” into an everyday practice: a short supply chain, clean work, and a meticulous, almost obsessive focus on sourdough. Their panettone is made with the same care and gestures as their breads: Molino Agostini flours, Fattoria Cupidi eggs, French butter, Madagascar vanilla, and artisan candied fruit by Christian Castorani. The classic version is scented with orange and raisins, while the cocoa-and-chocolate panettone is more intense—made for those who love bold flavors without sacrificing digestibility. Orange zest is worked fresh, for a crisp, natural aromatic profile. It’s a “good” panettone in every sense: to enjoy and to gift.
Via Valerio Publicola, 73 Classic or cocoa/chocolate panettone, 1 kg €48
Madeleine
In this Prati bistro, the panettone created by pastry chef Francesca Minnella reflects an almost “monastic” approach to sourdough: three refreshments, a double dough, and over 18 hours of total proofing. The dough is soft and fragrant, available in a classic version with Agrimontana candied fruit or with Valrhona dark chocolate, made with Madagascar vanilla, Dallagiovanna flours and Parisi eggs. The dome is finished with a thin, crunchy craquelin that adds a pleasant contrast with every bite. Limited batches—perfect both to take away and for a festive tea at home.
Via Monte Santo 64 Panettone 500 g €25
Forno Monteforte
In the heart of the historic center, Forno Monteforte has become a go-to address for those looking for signature panettone in a more “bakery” style than a pastry-shop style. Carefully made doughs, sourdough, and a line that focuses on a few well-executed flavors: the classic with candied fruit and raisins, chocolate, and a handful of seasonal variations. It’s soft yet not flimsy, with a pleasant milky and citrus note. Perfect with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of passito on festive evenings in the city center.
Via del Pellegrino, 129 Classic panettone 1 kg around €35
New Food Experience (gluten free)
At New Food Experience, Christmas is inclusive: here panettone is gluten-free, but designed to please everyone. The dough, made with lactose-free butter, natural sourdough starter and a double rise (18 + 2–3 hours), is surprisingly soft and aromatic. Australian sultanas, artisan orange peel and cubes of dark chocolate complete the profile, proving that “gluten-free” can be a quality choice—not a compromise. Available in both classic and chocolate versions, you can also order it from New Food Gluten Free stores or enjoy it as dessert at the Prati restaurant.
Via Germanico, 190 Panettone 550 g €24
Forno Conti & Co.
Forno Conti is one of those neighborhood bakeries that has taken its holiday leavened cakes to the next level without losing its down-to-earth soul. The classic panettone focuses on well-managed sourdough, a soft crumb, and a successful balance of butter, candied fruit and raisins. Alongside it, a few variations—like apple and cinnamon or chocolate—keep the same straightforward, reassuring style. It’s a “home-style” panettone, perfect to slice for Christmas breakfast or after a family lunch.
Via Giusti, 18 Classic panettone 1 kg approx. €30–40 depending on the variations
I Mannari
At I Mannari gelateria, panettone meets the world of semifreddo. Giuseppe Bassanelli partially hollows out the leavened cake, coats the inside with Valrhona chocolate, and fills it with zabaglione semifreddo or Jivara 40% milk chocolate and vanilla. The panettone “shell” stays protected from the moisture of the filling, which remains creamy at just the right point after a short pass in a switched-off but still warm oven. The result is a show-stopping dessert to slice to order, ideal as an end-of-meal finale. Ultra-limited batches—pre-order recommended.
Via di Grotta Perfetta, 125 Filled panettone 900 g, 1.3 kg and 1.9 kg from €28 to €54
Dolcemascolo
At Dolcemascolo, panettone is a manifesto of method: 72 hours of work, fully manual processes, sourdough refreshed every day, and carefully selected Italian ingredients. The structure is soft and moist, with an even crumb and a sweetness that never overwhelms. The classic is already a small masterpiece, while the creative range (chocolate and pear, raspberries, mixed berries, pistachio with spreadable cream) shows a desire to experiment without losing elegance. The new packaging mirrors this growth: essential, recognizable, designed to turn panettone into a contemporary gift. Available at the pastry shop in Frosinone, at the Rome store, and online with shipping across Italy.
Viale G. Mazzini 84-86 : Classic panettone 950 g €43 – Creative panettone 950 g €45 – Pistachio panettone €48
Garage Forno
Just steps from the Vatican, Garage Forno is Fabrizio Franco’s contemporary bakery: serious breads, natural wines, and, at Christmas, panettone that balance technique and experimentation. They work with natural leavening and organic flours, taking a slightly off-regulation approach that aims for a more intense, personal flavor, backed by research even in academic settings. The classic with candied fruit and raisins is aromatic and clean; the chocolate version is more comfort-driven, yet always well balanced. The dough has a fuller, “bakery-style” chew, far from the overly soft, overly sweet pastry-shop textures.
Via Paolo II 14 Classic or chocolate panettone, 1 kg €30
Pasticceria Max
Pasticceria Max is one of those places where Christmas is prepared all year round: study, testing, and constant fine-tuning of the doughs. Their panettone is made according to the official rules, using top-quality ingredients—from free-range eggs to Tahiti vanilla—and comes in a wide range of variations. You’ll find everything from the classic with raisins and semi-candied Navel orange to richer combinations like apple, walnuts and cinnamon, or moka and white chocolate. The texture is soft yet structured, designed to hold up well even with fillings and syrups. And don’t miss the “Ubriacati di Max” line: true “meditation” panettone soaked with rum, Strega liqueur, or zuppa inglese.
Via Publio Valerio, 34 – Via Lucio Papirio, 99 Panettone 0.5 kg €22 – 1 kg €35
Bonci
Gabriele Bonci’s panettone is the natural extension of his idea of dough: rich, alive, and easy to digest. Sourdough starter, long proofing times, and top-quality ingredients come together in three versions: the classic with raisins and candied orange, a chocolate version without candied fruit, and an almond-glazed panettone with a crunchy topping. The crumb is elastic and fragrant, with a well-balanced sweetness and a satisfying “chew” that recalls the world of artisan bread. It’s the kind of panettone you recognize from the very first bite—just like his famous pizza al taglio.
Via Trionfale 36, e Pizzarium, Via della Meloria 43 Panettone classico 1 kg €38, cioccolato 1 kg €39, mandorlato 1 kg €40
Bap
Bap is the café-kitchen that brought an international flair to Rome’s food scene, and its panettone is no exception. Sourdough starter, artisan craftsmanship, top-quality ingredients, and a soft, highly digestible texture are at the core. Alongside the classic version with its balanced sweetness, two standouts emerge: the special with Miyagawa mandarin, dark chocolate and a touch of rum, and the savory “toast” panettone, featuring Nebrodi black ham, alpine fontina, honey mustard and béchamel. A great holiday leavened cake that becomes a real dish, perfect to serve at the table as a Christmas appetizer.
Via Raffaele Cadorna 5 e Piazza delle Vaschette 15 Classic panettone 1 kg €38 – Special 1 kg €42 – Savory panettone 1 kg €44
Julietta Pastry and Lab (plant based)
Julietta Pastry and Lab, by Romeow Cat Bistrot, proves that panettone can be completely plant-based without losing its charm. No animal-derived ingredients, no additives: just flours, selected plant fats, sourdough starter, and careful work on hydration and aromas. The result is a surprisingly soft panettone with an excellent, open crumb. The 2025 variations are two: a classic with raisins and sugar pearls, and a more indulgent version with candied mandarin and dark chocolate. Perfect for vegans or those who are lactose-intolerant, but also for anyone who simply wants a different holiday treat.
MedinAction and Marinella launch “Threads of Care” to support BeFree, a social cooperative against gender violence
On the occasion of the week of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, MedinAction will donate €1,000 to BeFree – Sportello Donna, a social cooperative supporting women survivors of violence. At the same time, E. Marinella will donate ties and silk phone holders to the doctors in the MedinAction network, as a symbolic thank-you for their daily commitment to patients.
The collaboration between MedinAction, the medical assistance service for internationals in Italy, and E. Marinella, the historic Neapolitan maison renowned worldwide for its handmade ties and accessories, is renewed this year with a special charity initiative in support of women survivors of violence.
With this initiative, MedinAction aims to transform an important moment of the year into a concrete gesture for women who are rebuilding their lives after violence. Supporting BeFree means standing alongside those who, every day, guarantee safe spaces, protection and empowerment pathways for women.
“With this initiative, MedinAction supports Sportello Donna, an extraordinary organization that stands with women in difficult moments. Supporting BeFree sportello donna meansstanding alongside those who, every day, guarantee safe spaces, protection and empowerment pathways for women”
About BeFree
BeFree is a social cooperative active throughout Italy in the fight against human trafficking, gender-based violence and discrimination. The organisation manages anti-violence centres and shelters, offering listening services, legal and psychological support, safe accommodation and tailored empowerment programmes for women and their children. One of this centres is Sportello Donna, open 24h/365 inside San Camillo Hospital to offer support to women survived to phisical, psychological or sexual violence.
BeFree also develops prevention, training and awareness-raising projects, working with public institutions, schools and civil society to promote a culture based on respect, equality and freedom from all forms of abuse.
Founded in 1914 in Naples by Eugenio Marinella, E. Marinella is one of Italy’s most iconic brands of luxury neckties and accessories.
Born as a small boutique on Piazza Vittoria in the Chiaia district, the maison quickly became a reference point for Neapolitan and international elegance, thanks to its use of hand-printed silks and meticulous craftsmanship.
Today, E. Marinella is still a family-run company, led by Eugenio’s grandson Maurizio and his son Alessandro, and its creations are appreciated around the world for their distinctive style and timeless quality.
“We are proud to renew our collaboration with MedinAction,” explains Alessandro Marinella, family brand manager at E. Marinella. “Our accessories are small symbols of beauty and attention to detail. If they can contribute, even indirectly, to supporting women who have experienced violence, then they gain an even deeper meaning.”
MedinAction is a medical assistance service founded in Rome in 2017 and active in major cities across Italy (and other European countries), providing home visits and teleconsultations to tourists, expats and international students who need prompt, English-speaking healthcare.
The company coordinates a network of general practitioners and specialists available 7 days a week, helping thousands of patients each year to access medical care without language or bureaucratic barriers. In 2022, MedinAction received the European Awards in Medicine for its innovative model of international patient support.
With “Threads of Care”, MedinAction and E. Marinella invite patients, partners and the international community in Italy to feel part of a chain of solidarity: a medical visit becomes not just a health service, but also a contribution to protecting women and promoting a future free from violence.
Piazza Augusto Imperatore is reborn:
An architectural restoration project brings new life and renewed centrality to one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks.
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