5 Best Destinations in Europe to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

When we welcome in 2021, the chances are great that it’ll be a bit of a muted celebration. While we’ll all be glad to see the back of 2020, social distancing measures will probably rule out the huge, extravagant parties we’re used to. Going aboard to mark the occasion is even more unrealistic.

If you’re the kind of person who really appreciates these events, then going without for a year might be especially disappointing. So why not make plans for New Years 2020? There’s no shortage of destinations across Europe that’ll be eager to welcome tourists – each of which competes every year to make things as spectacular as possible. You can get a Govia train to Gatwick and be back in just a few days – so why not start planning your European break for next year?

Berlin, Germany

The Brandenburg Gate is illuminated each year by an eye-popping firework display, triggered, as you might expect, the moment that the clock ticks over, and the New Year comes in. There are two kilometres of stages, party tents and light shows lining the street – and the city itself is rich in history and culture, so you’re sure to have a fabulous time after the party’s over.

Stockholm, Sweden

In Sweden, the festivities are a little bit more low-key, centring on the Skansen open-air museum, on Djurgårdenisland. There’s a long-running tradition in Sweden: the reading of Ring Out, Wild Bells by Alfred, Lord Tennyson, which is performed by a famous Swede and televised each year.

Vienna, Austria

The Christmas markets for which Vienna is known extend over New Year, too. There are daily open-air Jazz concerts, indoor markets, circuses and outdoor rides – as well as outdoor waltz lessons and concerts. If you’re looking for a street party, in other words, then you’ll find few better places to go.

Budapest, Hungary

At this time of year, Budapest becomes a party city, with mulled wine and palinka being dispensed liberally on the streets. The firework display lights up the Danube, where you’ll find plenty of river cruises with parties to mark the occasion in style. Buda Castle is a popular destination for partygoers, providing a panoramic view over the entire city.

Copenhagen, Denmark

During winter, the Danish capital takes on a fairy-tale vibe. The firework display kicks of slightly early, with revellers gathering in the City Hall Square to usher in midnight. With plenty of wintery street food on offer, a thriving restaurant scene and a string of stylist shops, it’s a great city for a break at this time of year.