For many people, a new year means a new start. So, why not start 2018 as you mean to go on in one of the most exciting and luxurious locations that Europe has to offer? Whether you want to party in style or kick back and relax, there is the perfect place out there for you. And since New Year’s Eve is traditionally a night full of promise for the coming year, who knows, you may unexpectedly meet somebody special while you’re celebrating!
If a party is what you’re looking for, Berlin is at the top of the list. This world-renowned party town bursts into life for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Festivities centre around the Brandenburg Gate, with food stalls, bars, music tents and more stretching down the ‘party mile’ to Victory Column.
Fireworks start at midnight, but there’s plenty to do before you head out. The Mandala Hotel offers spacious rooms, a sumptuous spa and delectable food just a few minutes’ walk away from Brandenburg Gate. Enjoy a delicious meal in the FACIL restaurant, located in a glass cube structure filled with chestnut trees and bamboo, before heading out on the town.
Berlin is always a trip to remember, so make this New Year’s Eve a night you’ll never forget!
Traditionally, the Scots observe Hogmanay from 30 December to 2 January, and nowhere else puts on a celebration quite like Edinburgh. Starting with the Torchlight Procession on the 30th, you can then celebrate the main event the next night with a ceilidh under the castle, a street party on Princes Street, and end with the fireworks display on the castle ramparts.
The Edinburgh Hogmanay is world famous, and there are some beautiful locations to stay the night. The Caledonian hosts a black-tie ball, with wonderful views of the fireworks and the castle, the infamous Balmoral holds its Gala Ball, and for something a bit different, the Botanical Gardens host a five-course dinner event amongst their magnificent surroundings.
If you’re looking for an elegant night, why not consider Paris? The official street party along the Champs-Élysées culminates in a spectacular firework display over the Arc de Triomphe, with the Eiffel Tower as a glittering beacon to gather around with friends. For those who seek a quieter time away from the thronging crowds, head towards Montmartre where you have dazzling panoramic views of the city.
Dinner at the Buddha-Bar Hotel Paris is set in an enchanted forest based on a Japanese landscape where you can enjoy a gourmet meal. Maison Pradier offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower as you dine or, if you’re after something a little more upbeat and racy, you can try the cabaret at the Moulin Rouge! It’s a riot of fun where you can dance the night away in Parisian fashion.
For a truly unique experience, head to Reykjavik. Whilst there’s only a chance that you’ll witness the enchanting Northern Lights overhead, there’s a guarantee that you’ll enjoy the community spirit and a great party. There is no official fireworks display, but residents gather together to let off approximately 500 tonnes of fireworks at midnight. It’s a sight to behold, and the best place to watch from is Oskjuhlid Hill.
The city itself will play host to plenty of warming bonfires, and revellers can party all night in local bars and pubs. A grand gala dinner is held at the exquisite Perlan restaurant, but if you’re in the mood for adventure, you can take the fireworks cruise out to watch the display from Faxafloi Bay. But wherever you go, make sure to keep warm, and enjoy a once in a lifetime New Year’s Eve!
