The Best City for New Year's Eve in Europe - The Wandering Afro:Travel Blogger

Is Europe the best place to celebrate New Year’s Eve? It can be. Celebrating New Year’s Eve in a European city needs to be on your buckets. You can usually find affordable flights from the US to Europe at the last minute and if one city isn’t your cup of tea, you can always hop on a train to another one.

During this time of the year, the cities of Europe have an air of magic and excitement. Late December begins the end of the joyous Christmas Market season, but cities are still celebrating. Each city has its own unique charm and traditions. Last year I spent NYE in Barcelona and I loved the experience. If you’re thinking about visiting Europe for New Year’s Eve, here’s a curated list of cities for an exciting New Year’s Eve:

Reykjavik, Iceland

shows the back of a dark skinned Black woman wearing a big beige jacket while sitting on a snowy rock and looking out at the pink, purple, and blue ombre sunset

Early January is a great time to see the Northern Lights. For best views book a Northern Lights Tour that lasts a few hours or book a hotel outside of Reykjavik to sleep under the stars. During NYE you’ll see community-led bonfires and lots of late night house parties. At midnight there will be lots of fireworks. A popular place to see fireworks is next to the Hallgrimskirkja chuch. My favorite location is at lake Tjornin because the lake mirros the fireworks and creates a very magical scene. look For more interesting things to do in Iceland after New Years Eve check out this post.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is a great destination for New Year’s Eve. Nightlife comes alive and city never sleeps. The most popular festivities take place at Dam Square. There’s a large outdoor party with music, fireworks, and lots of street vendors. If you prefer artistic activities, check out the Amsterdam Light Festival. From late November to early January, this cultural festival works to connect local entrepreneurs, artists, and community members through art.

If you have enough time,I strongly recommend taking a cruise on the canal. You can see the fireworks from the boat at midnight.

Hotel Recommendation:

London, United Kingdom

a man with a black jacket and grey hoodie looking at the London Eye Ferris wheel at night. The wheel is lit a bright pink — we went at night but I wish I had gone during daylight

London is an iconic place to spend on New Year’s Eve. During the day you can explore a fancy Afternoon Tea and then head to the River Thames to see the fireworks. Don’t forget to snap a few photos in front of the London Eye. If you don’t like crowds book dinner tickets at local restaurants or rooftop parties for great views of the light show. Afterwards, enjoy the bustling nightlife in Soho or Camden.

Hotel Recommendation: Strand Palace

Porto, Portugal

seafood pasta with black noodles at a restaurant near Benagil Cave

Porto, Portugal, is an excellent destination for New Year’s Eve for those who love culture and beautiful sunsets. The city sponsors free public concerts and fireworks at iconic spots like Avenida dos Aliados, where locals and tourists come together to welcome the new year.

For a more scenic experience, head to the Ribeira district by the Douro River. Many restaurants, like Buxa restaurant in Oliveria square does an amazing New Year’s Eve dinner. You’ll see stunning views of the river and the Dom Luís I Bridge, with the fireworks starting around midnight. A Douro River cruise is one of the best ways to celebrate NYE because it combines a romantic ride on the river with fireworks that you’ll remember forever.

The party doesn’t stop after NYE. Explore Porto’s historic beauty and delicious Portuguese seafood to make the most out of your trip.

Hotel Rec

Hotel Recommendation: GA Palace Hotel & Spa

Lucerne, Switzerland

A fantastic city to visit for New Year’s Eveis Lucerne, Switzerland. Chapel Bridge looks like something out of a fairytale when the fireworks begin going off. With views of Lake Lucerne and nearby mountains, this just may be my favorite NYE destination overall.

For a bit more privacy, visit Seehotel Kastanienbaum to bring in the new year in their wooden huts. From the huts you’ll be able to see the fireworks on Lake Lucerne. If you prefer a more opulant affair, a New Year’s dinner cruise with Schifffahrtsgesellschaft des Vierwaldstättersees (SGV).

LUZ Seeibistro, a restaurant with great views of the fireworks, is the perfect date night location. I recommend ordering the Indian lentil soup to keep you warm throughout the night.

] Whether you seek vibrant festivities or a tranquil escape in the Alps, Lucerne offers the perfect setting to start the year on a magical note.Known for its vibrant celebrations,

For a more laid-back but equally enchanting experience, consider Lucerne. This charming lakeside city offers scenic beauty, cozy celebrations, and a festive vibe in its picturesque old town.

Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Rebstock

Hotels

Get the best rates on hotels and private accommodations.

best rates

Car Rentals

Renting a car can be easy and stress-free.

best rates

Activities

Looking for the best things to do? I’ve got you covered.

fun

Tenerife, Spain

Explore the dramatic rock formations on the sea in Tenerife during twilight. — Photo by Luis Quintero

Tenerife, one of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a popular choice for New Year’s Eve, thanks to its warm weather and nightlife. In January, the average temperature of Tenerife is about 69°F or 21°C. It might not be warm enough to swim, but it is warm enough to enjoy a beach bonfire.

You’ll find street parties, concerts, and fireworks displays all across Santa Cruz de Tenerife. IF you’re trying to beat the crown consider driving down toLos Cristianos or Playa de las Américas for beachfront restaurants and live music.

If you prefer bringing in the New Year with nature, head to Mount Teide National Park. Imagine watching the stars as the clock strikes 12 in one of the world’s best stargazing locations.

Hotel Recommendation: Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz

Barcelona, Spain

If you can, try visiting Barcelona a few days before New Year’s Eve to make sure you have enough time to visit a few Christmas markets. You may run into the Caganer, a Catalan Christmas tradition of displaying a pooping man. You’ll see him everywhere in Barcelona.

But New Year’s Eve you’ll want to visit the fireworks display and the traditional “Twelve Grapes” ritual at Plaça d’Espanya. Popular dance clubs are Pacha or Opium, known for hosting international DJs. Some night are themed so pack accordingly. For a more intimate celebration, enjoy s Catalan feast at a rooftop restaurant like Mirablau or 1881 per Sagardi, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the Magic Fountain Show at Port Vell, a blend of music, lights, and water art to cap off the year in style.

Hotel Recommendation: Isabella’s House