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New Year’s Eve traditions around Europe
Find out how to get the luckiest year yet by following these traditions.
Across the continent, you’ll find strangers, friends, and family joining together on the streets to commemorate the end of the year, and bring in the New Year. Fireworks and live music can be found almost anywhere you go.
The great thing about Europe is its wide variety of activities on this special night. From unique traditions, to wild club nights, to romantic excursions, there is no way you won’t be able to find what you’re looking for across the continent!
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s capital is home to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, a 3 day festival from the 30th of December until New Year’s Day. This is one of the most famous festivals in Europe, and it is the highlight of spending New Year’s in Edinburgh. Every night, there are different concerts and ceremonies all around the New Town area of the city.
Don’t miss one of the ceilidhs that happen during the festival. This is a traditional Scottish event filled with folk music and traditional dancing. It is one of the most typical celebrations in Scotland, so you’ll surely be spending your New Year's like a local if you attend one. Dress codes for ceilidhs tend to be whatever you’re most comfortable dancing in, but wearing Scottish Kilts is highly encouraged and appreciated!
During the festival, Edinburgh’s Christmas market will still be open. The stunning UNESCO heritage city in the background makes Edinburgh’s market one of the most beautiful. Take the ferris wheel ride to get incredible views of the city, and try some of the food stalls that have a wide variety including Scottish, German, and Indian.
For a party scene, head to some of Edinburgh’s biggest clubs, such as Why Not Nightclub or Bourbon Nightclub. These clubs are bustling with students from nearby universities. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance to skip the line and ensure entrance.
Where to stay
In the heart of Edinburgh, this adults-only hostel attracts party-goers looking to meet other travellers.
Mid-Range - East Claremont Guest House
Gorgeous gothic-style rooms make this guest house an enjoyable stay.
Over 100 years old with a clock tower that dominates the Edinburgh skyline, with luxurious amenities such as a spa, a delicious restaurant, afternoon tea, and a whisky bar.
2. Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Funchal is a small city on the island of Madeira, a Portuguese island in the middle of the Atlantic ocean. This isn’t one of the first places people think of for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Europe. However, it has one of the most spectacular celebrations on the continent.
The weather is also mild this time of year compared to a lot of European countries, meaning if you’re staying for a few days, you can still do some of Madeira’s most fabulous hikes and outdoor activities without being uncomfortable. The calm weather also makes its outdoor New Year’s Eve festival very enjoyable.
Madeira hosts a festival that starts at the beginning of December and ends on January 6th. Throughout the day there will be cultural events and entertainment throughout the city. At midnight, Funchal is filled with fireworks. Literally, you will be surrounded by fireworks everywhere you turn. In 2006, the Guinness Book of Records named Funchal’s celebration “The Largest Fireworks Show in the World”. This small off-the-radar city will surprise you with its unique and extravagant New Year’s Eve festivities.
Where to stay
This hostel is a great bang for your buck, with affordable rooms in the dead centre of Funchal’s old town.
Mid-Range - Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino
This relaxing hotel has panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, a pool, 6 amazing restaurants, a spa, and a casino.
An elegant, beachfront hotel with heated swimming pools, a bar with live music, and a private shuttle service into the centre of Funchal.
3. Berlin, Germany
The electronic music capital of Europe known for its intense clubbing scene is sure to be eccentric on New Year's Eve. While we are sure you have heard of Berghain, Berlin’s most famous club, which is known for bouncers' harsh discretion on who should be let in, we recommend against it for your New Year’s Eve celebration in Berlin. For a fun, stress-free clubbing experience on New Year’s Eve, head to some of Berlin’s less strict nightclubs! House of Weekend in Alexanderplatz is known to have an incredible New Year’s celebration, and for techno lovers in the capital, get your tickets for big techno clubs in the city such as Tresor or M-Bia!
For a non-clubbing experience, head to the New Year’s Eve party at Brandenburg Gate. This is a huge open-air party, so make sure to pack your winter clothes. Tickets must be bought in advance online to join the festivities including live bands and DJs. This is one of the biggest New Year’s Eve parties in the world, and if you’re able to get tickets, it’ll be an unforgettable experience.
Where to stay
This eccentric hostel is great to meet other travellers and has its own restaurant and brewery.
Close to main attractions with nice, quaint rooms, and friendly staff.
This luxurious boutique hotel is housed in a former Berlin Stasi Spy Base.
4. Paris, France
Paris is a classy destination for your New Year’s Eve trip, and perfect for couples looking for a romantic start to the year. Many of Paris’ best restaurants feature a New Year’s Eve menu, which is a perfect start to the evening. For a special experience, book a dinner on a river cruise down the Seine. With spectacular views of the city and an intimate atmosphere, a cruise is a great way to start off your night.
We recommend booking your dinner so that your meal is finished by midnight. This is because some of the most impressive fireworks in the world take place in Paris at the New Year, and the best place to watch them is on the Champs Elysees, as the show is right above the Arc de Triomphe you may need to get a bit early to secure your spot, as it's one of the most popular events in the city.
For a party scene in Paris, head to a cabaret show. At famous venues such as Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse, this is a uniquely Parisian experience to try out for the holiday. If cabaret isn’t your idea of a party, there are plenty of clubs in Paris that will be hosting parties all night, and it's recommended that you buy tickets in advance to ensure your spot!
Where to stay
Budget - Le Regent Montmartre by Hiphophostels
This modern hostel offers shared rooms at the base of the artistic neighbourhood of Montmartre.
This quirky hotel offers a location right in the heart of Paris without the high price tag.
Located right next to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs Elysées, Le Tsuba Hotel is luxurious and perfect for spending your New Year's Eve celebrating on the famous street.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has a huge party scene for New Year’s Eve, making it a favourite for visitors during the season. To experience the Czech nightlife, head to one of the local bars and clubs, or sign up for a New Year’s Eve Pub Crawl to get a taste of the different types of party spots in the city. There is also a famous boat party from Boat Party Prague that includes an open bar and entrance to Prague’s favourite clubs after.
Besides partying, this beautiful city has one of the biggest classical music scenes, as Mozart himself released a lot of his works in the city, as well as many other classical artists during the 17th century. On New Year’s Eve, many beautiful venues will be holding classical music concerts, accompanied by dinner. These beautiful symphonies are heaven on earth for classical music fans.
Some of Prague’s most luxurious hotels will be throwing New Year’s Eve parties as well. These hotel parties are known for either having a buffet or a set menu, and for having some form of entertainment, such as live music, DJs, and views of the fireworks.
Where to stay
Clean, modern, and centrally located, this hostel is a favourite among budget travellers
Mid-Range - Hotel Meteor Plaza Prague
This charming hotel is housed in a historical building in Prague’s old town, with traditionally decorated rooms.
Stunning, modern interior design and a central location make for a magnificent stay at this hotel.
6. London, England
As one of Europe’s biggest cities, you’re sure to find a variety of things to do in London, whether you’re looking for parties, nice dinners, or festivals. One of the best ways to experience New Year’s Eve in London is to head to Winter Wonderland, the most festive event in the city. Located in Hyde Park, this is especially great for family fun, as they have fun rides, carnival games, and a Christmaschristmas market! Make sure to book your tickets in advance, which is available on their website. This is also a great daytime activity if you’re looking for a different way to spend your evening, since the park sells its first tickets as early as 10 in the morning. It is also open on New Year’s Day.
Another great option in London is to spend the holiday at one of London’s rooftop bars. For most rooftop bars in the city, tickets must be purchased in advance, and reservations for food may need to be booked, but these rooftop bars are great places to watch fireworks from, and enjoy some cocktails. Some will even be equipped with a dance floor for the celebration!
There are plenty of other fun activities in London to spend your night. Take a cruise down the Thames, where boats either offer relaxing dinner cruises, or booze-cruises with a dance floor. Speaking of dance floors, as a big city, of course, there is a big clubbing scene. Most clubs will be open for the occasion with the option to buy tickets in advance for any parties. If you’re looking to go to a club, don’t forget to plan ahead and buy in advance as the tickets sell out quickly, and often increase in price as the event approaches.
For a romantic New Year’s Eve (or just a more relaxed one) we recommend eating at one of London’s amazing restaurants offering set menus for the night. The city has attracted countless of world-renowned chefs, and you’re sure to find a delicious meal in one of the many trendy restaurants. Make sure to book your reservation well in advance as they’re sure to fill up pretty quickly.
Where to stay
Budget - Hostel One Notting Hill
This social party hostel is located in one of London’s nicest neighbourhoods.
Even though this hotel is on a quiet residential street, London’s most popular attractions are right around the corner.
Luxury - The Chesterfield Mayfair
This 4-star luxury hotel is known for England’s famous Afternoon Tea, and has won the Tea Guild Award of Excellence three years in a row.
7. Athens, Greece
This ancient city is an amazing spot to spend your New Year’s Eve, and one of the best in the city is Syntagma Square. This famous spot turns into an open-air party that is great for any age. There are many DJs and activities throughout the square, and it's a perfect viewing point for the firework show, particularly the one above the acropolis. For other views of the fireworks above the Acropolis, head to Plaka and visit some of the rooftop bars in the area for some of the best views.
To celebrate New Year’s Eve like a local, go to a Bouzoukia. Greek music is performed live at this traditional performance, and it's one of the most popular things to do for Greeks in Athens. Although traditionally during Bouzoukias plates are broken, this is a thing of the past in Athens, so if you’re looking for that on New Year’s don’t expect to see that at the Bouzoukias. Don’t let this be the reason you skip it though! This unique highlight of Greek nightlife is great for enjoying traditional music and having a delicious meal.
Another local experience is to go to one of the city’s tavernas, to enjoy a local, traditional dinner. As my Greek mom would say, the taverna is where you get the yiayia’s food (which means it tastes like grandma’s home-cooked meals) With live music and dancing, the tavernas are a glimpse into how Greek people celebrate the holidays. Don’t forget to try Vasilopita, the Greek New Year’s Eve cake. A coin is baked into the cake, and it’s handed out traditionally at midnight in Greek restaurants and households. Whoever’s piece of the cake has the coin inside is thought to have good luck for the rest of the new year!
Where to stay
Located in the vibrant Monastiraki neighbourhood, this hostel is great for mingling with other visitors.
Situated in Plaka, this recently renovated hotel has a beautiful rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Acropolis.
This hotel at the foot of the acropolis boasts its unique culinary experience, with an in-house ‘Modern-Day Agora’, a farm-to-table restaurant serving modern takes on traditional greek cuisine, and cooking classes.
8. Seville, Spain
For a traditional Spanish New Year’s Eve, Seville is the place to be. One of the most popular traditions in Seville is to buy grapes, and head to the famous Plaza Nueva. Once the clock strikes midnight, there will be 12 chimes. For each chime, everyone in the street does their best to stuff their 12 grapes in their mouth. If you’re able to eat all 12 grapes before the last bell rings, then you have good luck for the New Year! The mild Mediterranean climate makes Seville a comfortable place to party on the streets with the locals, without having to worry about bundling up.
Another thing to do in Seville to immerse yourself in the culture and head to a Flamenco show. Flamenco originated from Andalusia, the region that Seville is in, and these days Seville is known as the hot spot of the country to see the best Flamenco shows. There is no shortage of Flamenco shows to enjoy on New Year’s Eve as well! Flamenco shows will often have meals available during the show, so it's a great experience to have your New Year’s dinner during.
Some tourism sites offer bar and party crawls that take you to the best parties of the city. Stay out until 7am with the Spaniards dancing to reggaetón and drinking cava to bring in the New Year! Otherwise, you can switch up the drinks with a tapas food crawl and hop your way into the New Year.
Where to stay
This lively hostel has a gorgeous terrace that has concerts on the weekend.
Mid-Range - Santiago 15 Casa Palacio
This hotel has typical Spanish charm, with a classic Andalusian patio and beautifully decorated rooms.
Restored from a breathtaking 17th-century house, this historical hotel is just a minutes walk from Sevilla’s famous cathedral.
9. Krakow, Poland
Krakow recently has turned into one of the most travelled-to places during New Year’s Eve in Europe. With beautiful Christmas markets and Christmas lights, the city has a very festive feeling everywhere you walk, and those decorations will still be there to bring in the new year. On New Year’s Eve, head to the Main Market Square which is filled with lights, crowds, and live music. In Poland on New Year’s Eve, there are plenty of public concerts that are organised, and the biggest one in Krakow will be at the Main Market Square. Pack for cold weather. Since so many of the festivities are outside, and winter in Krakow tends to be quite cold, it's best to come prepared to fully enjoy the city's festivities.
Besides outdoor gatherings, Krakow is home to a wide variety of parties to commemorate the New Year, including masquerade parties, glow parties, and jazz parties. This wide variety of events gives the city's clubbing scene a unique atmosphere that differs from other big European cities. Tickets should be booked in advance for clubs and bars. For example, an unlimited all you can drink pub crawl, anyone? Before the party begins, there are plenty of traditional Polish restaurants that offer New Year’s Eve dinners, which is a great way to start off your night.
Where to stay
This modern, quaint hostel is right in the middle of Krakow’s old town.
This historical hotel shares Polish heritage, such as classical Polish dishes in their restaurant, and traditional decoration throughout the hotel and rooms.
Luxury - Sheraton Grand Krakow
The Sheraton in Krakow was recently refurbished, with spacious and comfortable rooms that have great views over the city.
10. Riga, Latvia
Riga is one of Europe’s most overlooked capitals for tourism in Europe, and that stays true during the New Year. This is a great New Year’s Eve destination for budget travellers. There are plenty of free, family-friendly events in Riga to check out, such as the Christmas market that’ll have DJs playing the night of. Riga’s Christmas market is one of the most stunning, and a great place to try some mulled wine and traditional Latvian food.
There are a lot of clubs that are offering nights out for New Year’s Eve, and for the majority of them, it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Since Riga doesn’t attract many tourists, especially during the winter months, get ready to party with the locals!
Many of Riga’s upscale hotels offer set-course menus at their gourmet restaurants. For the most part, these meals are set prices for a certain number of courses and can be booked in advance. These elegant restaurants are great for couples and gastronomy lovers looking for a tasty New Year’s dinner, curated by some of Latvia’s finest chefs.
Where to stay
Budget - Naughty Squirrel Backpackers Hostel
This cosy hostel organises activities for its guests and is equipped with a 24-hour bar.
Mid-Range - Grand Poet Hotel and SPA
This 5-star hotel has stunning interiors with a hammam spa and an eclectic restaurant.
If you want to feel like you’re staying at an old castle, these fairytale hotel rooms will make you feel royal!
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