The perennial battle with New Year’s Eve: should you plan a huge party, entertain friends over dinner or visit a new place? It’s about this time of year that NYE anxiety sets in. You’re already suffering because you just found out that some of your friends are jetting off to celebrate in warmer climes and everyone else you know has signed up to a ticketed event, somewhere in a postcode you have never heard of. Still not sure what to do and how to make this New Year’s Eve special? Why not consider a last minute trip to a nearby European city. Indulge in some festive traditions, New Year’s Eve celebrations and pick up some January sale bargains on the way…you just won’t get a tan.*

 

Rome, Italy

The Romans knew that they were right when they named Rome the Eternal City. Despite the collapse of their own empire and history that followed, Italy’s capital still stands in all its glory and today it is proudly one of the most celebrated all-year-round travel destinations in Europe. New Year is a great time to visit Rome as Romans enjoy celebrating New Year’s Eve and visitors have numerous options across the city to revel in their New Year celebrations. For concerts and fireworks, the city celebrates its biggest party in Piazza del Popolo. Here you will find live music, huge crowds, dancing and light displays. In the Centro Storico, Rome’s old quarter, New Year’s Eve celebrations kick off early with outdoor concerts and an impressive fireworks display at midnight. Head to the piazza next to the Quirinale, off Via Nazionale where you’ll find yet more crowds. The Colosseum is never far from anyone’s to-do list whilst in Rome and on New Year’s Eve merrymakers can enjoy live music and fireworks throughout the night.

Berlin, Germany

Berliners love to party and there is no better excuse than New Year’s Eve. Historic Berlin is perhaps better known today as the home of alternative nightlife, techno and innovative art. On a normal night out in Berlin, busy areas are usually packed with partygoers, drinking and celebrating in the street – and New Year’s Eve is no exception – but with more noise and fireworks. A plethora of live music events take place throughout the festive season along with many underground music events but, if you are looking for an outdoor gathering, the main crowds can be found located around Brandenburger Tor, while others head to the northern tip of Grunewald to the Teufelsberg. Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg – usually famed for its open air karaoke on Sunday afternoons throughout the milder months – is also the perfect spot from which visitors can observe the many firework displays across the city.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Rather than celebrating the time-honoured tradition of New Year’s Eve, why not head up to our favourite Scottish city and ring in the New Year like a true Scot: celebrating Hogmanay. Although the city of Edinburgh is beautiful year round (think cobbled streets, stone buildings and wrapping up in your winter woollies to enjoy a hot chocolate) it becomes something truly magical throughout the festive period. The festival of Hogmanay opens with a night-time Torchlight Procession through the streets, illuminating the city centre in a beautiful light and giving you the perfect opportunity to explore on foot. With three days of events, including a traditional Ceilidh and a candlelit concert, the festival culminates in a fabulous street party. When the clock strikes twelve, a dramatic firework display above the iconic Edinburgh Castle signals the New Year.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Renowned worldwide as a hotspot for the rich, famous and fabulous, New Year’s Eve is no exception. Although its usual allure is not lost – there are plenty of beautiful streets to roam, ocean views to enjoy and delectable cuisine to sample – Monaco comes to life for this once-a-year party. Join the glitterati and head to the luxurious bars and nightclubs to dance the night away; if this isn’t for you, head to the Casino de Monte-Carlo to enjoy a glamorous party in the Salle Blanche with a live orchestra.

Dublin, Ireland

A popular destination for any celebration, this unique city blends culture and history with a vibrant nightlife. With pubs lining the streets – particularly in the well known area of Temple Bar – it’s easy to see why Dublin is a great spot for New Year’s Eve. Head to St. Stephen’s Green for the 3Countdown Concert to enjoy a night of live music and a spectacular firework display.

*N.B Tan not necessary during winter months

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