Italy reported a record-breaking 50,599 new Covid-19 cases on Friday, the highest daily figure since the pandemic began, according to health ministry data.
The count was more than 5,000 above Thursday's record 44,595 cases.
Research from Italy's Superior Health Institute published Thursday shows that the Omicron variant is "rapidly increasing" across the country.
The government has announced new restrictions aimed at curbing the latest outbreak.
It said it will close nightclubs and ban people from eating in public squares from December 30 to January 31.
The outdoor mask mandate returned on Friday. Masks are now mandatory outdoors for any public activity, with the exception of outdoor sports.
The more protective FFP2 masks will be required to enter stadiums, museums, cinemas, and theatres, as well as to travel on public transport, including local public transport.