Dec 28, 2023

Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve?

New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate the past year and welcome the new one with hope and joy. But where in Europe should you go to experience the best of the festivities?

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural adventure, or a party night, there is a city that suits your preferences. Here are 10 amazing European cities that offer unique and unforgettable ways to ring in the new year. These cities have something for everyone, from fireworks and concerts to traditions and attractions. Read on and discover how to celebrate New Year's Eve in London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Brussels, Barcelona, or Athens.

London

The official countdown and fireworks display occur at the London Eye, along the Thames River. You can watch it from various locations, such as Victoria Embankment, Waterloo Bridge, Westminster Bridge, or the South Bank. However, you must book a ticket to secure a spot. Alternatively, you can join one of the many parties and events across the city, such as Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, or Hyde Park. The most romantic place in London on New Year's Eve is the Sky Garden, where you can enjoy panoramic city views, a glass of champagne, and live music. On New Year's Day, you can watch the spectacular New Year's Day Parade, which features more than 10,000 performers from around the world, or visit one of the many open museums and attractions.

Paris

The most famous place to celebrate New Year's Eve in Paris is the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, where thousands of people gather to watch the light show and countdown at the Arc de Triomphe, followed by fireworks. You can also enjoy a romantic dinner and cruise on the Seine River or a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge or the Lido. Another popular spot is the Eiffel Tower, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner at the Madame Brasserie, suspended 57 metres above Paris. On New Year's Day, you can stroll along the streets and admire the festive decorations or visit iconic landmarks, such as the Louvre, Pompidou, or the Sacré-Cœur.

Rome

The main celebration in Rome is at the Piazza del Popolo, where you can watch a concert and a fireworks display and have a traditional midnight kiss under the mistletoe. You can also join the crowd at the Colosseum, where a light show and fireworks illuminate the ancient monument. For a more intimate and romantic experience, you can head to the Trevi Fountain, where you can make a wish and toss a coin, or to the Spanish Steps, where you can enjoy a glass of prosecco and a panoramic view of the city. On New Year's Day, you can visit the Vatican City, attend the Pope's blessing, or explore the many open museums and galleries.

Berlin

The biggest and most famous New Year's Eve party in Berlin is held at the Brandenburg Gate, where you can enjoy live music, DJs, food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks show at midnight. You can also join one of the many clubs and bars that host New Year's Eve events, such as the Amore Festival, the Cosmo Festival, or the Art Cafe. For a more cultural and classical experience, you can attend a concert at the Konzerthaus, the Philharmonie, or a show at the Friedrichstadt-Palast or the Blue Man Group. On New Year's Day, you can relax at one of the many parks and lakes in the city or visit some of the historical and artistic attractions, such as the Berlin Wall, the Museum Island, or the East Side Gallery.

Amsterdam

The Dutch capital is known for its lively and festive atmosphere on New Year's Eve, with street parties, fireworks, and music everywhere. The most popular spots to celebrate are the Dam Square, the Nieuwmarkt, and the Museumplein, where you can watch the national New Year's Eve party on a big screen. You can also enjoy a cruise on the canals or a dinner and show at one of the many restaurants and theatres in the city. The most romantic place in Amsterdam on New Year's Eve is the Magere Brug, or the Skinny Bridge, where you can kiss your partner under the fairy lights and the fireworks. On New Year's Day, you can join the traditional New Year's Dive, where brave people plunge into the cold water, or visit some of the famous museums and attractions, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, or the Van Gogh Museum.

Stockholm

The Swedish capital celebrates New Year's Eve with style and elegance, fireworks, concerts, and parties. The best place to watch the fireworks is the Skansen open-air museum, where you can enjoy a traditional speech and a sing-along. You can also watch the fireworks from other vantage points, such as the Monteliusvägen, the Fjällgatan, or the Slussen. On New Year's Day, you can see some of the cultural and historical attractions, such as the Royal Palace, the Vasa Museum, and the Gamla Stan.

Copenhagen

The Danish capital is a charming and festive New Year's Eve destination, with fireworks, parties, and traditions. The main celebration occurs at the City Hall Square, where you can watch the countdown, the fireworks, and the Queen's speech. You can also join the party at the Tivoli Gardens, where you can enjoy live music, rides, and a spectacular fireworks show. The most romantic place to be in Copenhagen on New Year's Eve is the Nyhavn, where you can admire the colourful houses, the boats, and the fireworks. On New Year's Day, you can watch the changing of the guard at the Amalienborg Palace or visit some famous attractions, such as the Little Mermaid, the Rosenborg Castle, or the Christiania. Also, taste the traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, Smorrebrød!

Brussels

The Belgian capital is a vibrant and multicultural place to celebrate New Year's Eve with fireworks, music, and food. The official celebration occurs at the Place des Palais, where you can watch a light show, a countdown, and a fireworks display. You can also enjoy a party at one of the many clubs and bars in the city, such as the New Year's Eve Mansion, the NYE by Progressive Movement, or the La Cabala. For a more cultural and classical experience, you can attend a concert at the Konzerthaus, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, or the La Monnaie. On New Year's Day, you can visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Place, Atomium, or Manneken Pis.

Barcelona

The Spanish city is a warm and festive New Year's Eve destination, with fireworks, parties, and traditions. The main celebration takes place at the Montjuïc Magic Fountain, where you can watch a show of water, light, and music, followed by a countdown and a fireworks display. If you want a more relaxed celebration, book a table at a rooftop restaurant or bring your loved one to a rooftop bar for a romantic toast for the new year. On New Year's Day, you can stroll along the streets and admire the festive decorations, or visit some of the famous attractions, such as the Sagrada Familia, the Casa Batlló, or the Camp Nou.