Yes Yes. Flights, accommodation and dinners in old European neighborhoods are a steal in broad daylight and a cozy Christmas evening. But what if we expand the horizons of well-worn routes and go to Europe through Kaliningrad or St. Petersburg? These cities are like the door behind Papa Carlo's canvas and the wardrobe to Narnia.
What is the beauty of Christmas in unpopular Europe:
- Fewer tourists and queues. Cozy tables by the window are yours.
- Cheaper. Each Christmas pretzel saves up to two euros.
- The holiday atmosphere is like in the capitals, but a little more comfortable.
We use Koninsberg as a portal to Europe. Fly here from your city and rent a car. A car for two days will cost 4-5 thousand rubles. It works on a budget if you travel with friends.
Gdansk
If we go to Poland, then we go to Gdansk. Halfway we stop in pretty Elbląg and have lunch at the authentic place “Pod Kogutem” (“Under the Rooster” that is). The one who is not the driver tastes locally produced beer. Let the Cathedral take a photo as a souvenir.
An hour later we are in a city that, in its history, fell to either the Germans or the Poles, or generally lived on its own as a separate state. The main Christmas market in Gdańsk lives on Targ Weglowy Square. We stay nearby for a couple of nights and immerse ourselves in a fairy tale.
A Venetian carousel spins in the center, a little further on there is a skating rink with lights and music. If you follow the pine scent, you will come to an exhibition of Christmas trees from the world, decorated according to the traditions of different countries. As for souvenirs, we like everything we like - craft toys, ceramics, canvas bags. Typical items include amber gifts.
In Poland, they eat carp for Christmas. So coming to Gdansk, a city on the Baltic coast, is a great success. To try fresh fish in Polish, we go to the KOS bistro - 5 minutes from Targ Weglowa, and we are there.
Klaipeda
Now we are heading for Klaipeda - a tiny port town a couple of kilometers from the Curonian Spit. We drive from Kaliningrad to it straight along the spit, with a stop in the dancing forest. This is where the trees are equally and mysteriously twisted. Along the way we will play “Baltic safari”. In winter, wild boars and foxes often come out onto the road. The bravest ones feed them from their hands - the animals willingly make contact in search of food. And in three hours we will be at the ferry, which will take us to Klaipeda.
The place is colorful. It seems that you are not in Lithuania, but somewhere in Bavaria. This is understandable. The heyday of Klaipeda dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when the city was ruled by the Germans and was affectionately called Memel. In such cities you feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages - there are no tourist traffic jams in the narrow streets, you walk into a cafe as if visiting relatives, and on the paved paths you are unexpectedly greeted by bronze figurines of a cat, a golden mouse, a red dragon, a black ghost and a beautiful mermaid.
Klaipeda is a godsend for lovers of sculptures and monuments. Take a map and look for a boy meeting ships, a song girl, a monument to money, the first postal letter and even a button. When you find a wall with a scattering of buttons, raise your head up - another “resident” is sitting on the roof of the house - a chimney sweep.
In December, the Christmas festival “Salve Musica” takes place in Klaipeda. So combine fairs and walks with classical music and ballet.
For a festive dinner we reserve a table at Stora Antis. This is a family wine restaurant that has preserved its 19th century appearance. The owners love to tell the story of how Mireille Mathieu herself once visited them.
On the way back along the Curonian Spit, between the raging Baltic Sea and the frozen bay, you will want to go out again and remember this wonderful “road on water”. And if you take your skates with you, you can linger for an hour or two on the natural ice skating rink.
Traveler's estimate
Four guys are going to Klaipeda for Christmas:
- Flight and car - 4,800 rubles per person.
- Ferry - 800 rubles per car with driver, 60 rubles per passenger. That is, 245 rubles per person.
- The same German house in Kaliningrad - 1,075 rubles per person.
- Loft with attic in the center of Klaipeda for a couple of days 9,000 rubles or 2,250 per person.
- Budget per person - 8,370 rubles.
- For comparison, a flight from Berlin to Moscow and back costs from 17,715 rubles.
From St. Petersburg you can also go to Europe by car, to Tallinn or Helsinki. True, in this case the distance is more serious - almost 400 kilometers in one direction. There is another option - five days, three European capitals and one cruise ferry.
The ferry Princess Anastasia departs from the northern capital. He sails first to Helsinki, then to Stockholm, then to Tallinn and returns to St. Petersburg - five days and four nights on board. The ferry arrives in each city in the morning and leaves in the evening. That is, you can not pay for hotels “on land”, but spend the night in a cabin, meeting a new country in the morning. After exploring the Christmas markets, get back on board. Here you will find your own variations of the holiday - a casino, karaoke or romantic forays onto the deck, from where you can see the city lights and the dance of huge ice floes parting in front of the “Princess”.
In December, cabins for four cost from 185 euros, or 3,500 rubles per person.
It is not necessary to order food on the ship - we go out into the city in the morning, wake up in the nearest bakery to coffee and views from the window, and go in search of Christmas.
Helsinki
In Helsinki, everything happens on Senate Square. We'll get there in 20 minutes. The market will be divided into a gift alley, where traditional woolen socks and triangular candles are purchased, and a food court with hot mulled wine and snacks.
Yes Yes. Flights, accommodation and dinners in old European neighborhoods are a steal in broad daylight and a cozy Christmas evening. But what if we expand the horizons of well-worn routes and go to Europe through Kaliningrad or St. Petersburg? These cities are like the door behind Papa Carlo's canvas and the wardrobe to Narnia.
What is the beauty of Christmas in unpopular Europe:
- Fewer tourists and queues. Cozy tables by the window are yours.
- Cheaper. Each Christmas pretzel saves up to two euros.
- The holiday atmosphere is like in the capitals, but a little more comfortable.
We use Koninsberg as a portal to Europe. Fly here from your city and rent a car. A car for two days will cost 4-5 thousand rubles. It works on a budget if you travel with friends.
Gdansk
If we go to Poland, then we go to Gdansk. Halfway we stop in pretty Elbląg and have lunch at the authentic place “Pod Kogutem” (“Under the Rooster” that is). The one who is not the driver tastes locally produced beer. Let the Cathedral take a photo as a souvenir.
An hour later we are in a city that, in its history, fell to either the Germans or the Poles, or generally lived on its own as a separate state. The main Christmas market in Gdańsk lives on Targ Weglowy Square. We stay nearby for a couple of nights and immerse ourselves in a fairy tale.
A Venetian carousel spins in the center, a little further on there is a skating rink with lights and music. If you follow the pine scent, you will come to an exhibition of Christmas trees from the world, decorated according to the traditions of different countries. As for souvenirs, we like everything we like - craft toys, ceramics, canvas bags. Typical items include amber gifts.
In Poland, they eat carp for Christmas. So coming to Gdansk, a city on the Baltic coast, is a great success. To try fresh fish in Polish, we go to the KOS bistro - 5 minutes from Targ Weglowa, and we are there.
Klaipeda
Now we are heading for Klaipeda - a tiny port town a couple of kilometers from the Curonian Spit. We drive from Kaliningrad to it straight along the spit, with a stop in the dancing forest. This is where the trees are equally and mysteriously twisted. Along the way we will play “Baltic safari”. In winter, wild boars and foxes often come out onto the road. The bravest ones feed them from their hands - the animals willingly make contact in search of food. And in three hours we will be at the ferry, which will take us to Klaipeda.
The place is colorful. It seems that you are not in Lithuania, but somewhere in Bavaria. This is understandable. The heyday of Klaipeda dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when the city was ruled by the Germans and was affectionately called Memel. In such cities you feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages - there are no tourist traffic jams in the narrow streets, you walk into a cafe as if visiting relatives, and on the paved paths you are unexpectedly greeted by bronze figurines of a cat, a golden mouse, a red dragon, a black ghost and a beautiful mermaid.
Klaipeda is a godsend for lovers of sculptures and monuments. Take a map and look for a boy meeting ships, a song girl, a monument to money, the first postal letter and even a button. When you find a wall with a scattering of buttons, raise your head up - another “resident” is sitting on the roof of the house - a chimney sweep.
In December, the Christmas festival “Salve Musica” takes place in Klaipeda. So combine fairs and walks with classical music and ballet.
For a festive dinner we reserve a table at Stora Antis. This is a family wine restaurant that has preserved its 19th century appearance. The owners love to tell the story of how Mireille Mathieu herself once visited them.
On the way back along the Curonian Spit, between the raging Baltic Sea and the frozen bay, you will want to go out again and remember this wonderful “road on water”. And if you take your skates with you, you can linger for an hour or two on the natural ice skating rink.
Traveler's estimate
Four guys are going to Klaipeda for Christmas:
- Flight and car - 4,800 rubles per person.
- Ferry - 800 rubles per car with driver, 60 rubles per passenger. That is, 245 rubles per person.
- The same German house in Kaliningrad - 1,075 rubles per person.
- Loft with attic in the center of Klaipeda for a couple of days 9,000 rubles or 2,250 per person.
- Budget per person - 8,370 rubles.
- For comparison, a flight from Berlin to Moscow and back costs from 17,715 rubles.
From St. Petersburg you can also go to Europe by car, to Tallinn or Helsinki. True, in this case the distance is more serious - almost 400 kilometers in one direction. There is another option - five days, three European capitals and one cruise ferry.
The ferry Princess Anastasia departs from the northern capital. He sails first to Helsinki, then to Stockholm, then to Tallinn and returns to St. Petersburg - five days and four nights on board. The ferry arrives in each city in the morning and leaves in the evening. That is, you can not pay for hotels “on land”, but spend the night in a cabin, meeting a new country in the morning. After exploring the Christmas markets, get back on board. Here you will find your own variations of the holiday - a casino, karaoke or romantic forays onto the deck, from where you can see the city lights and the dance of huge ice floes parting in front of the “Princess”.
In December, cabins for four cost from 185 euros, or 3,500 rubles per person.
It is not necessary to order food on the ship - we go out into the city in the morning, wake up in the nearest bakery to coffee and views from the window, and go in search of Christmas.
Helsinki
In Helsinki, everything happens on Senate Square. We'll get there in 20 minutes. The market will be divided into a gift alley, where traditional woolen socks and triangular candles are purchased, and a food court with hot mulled wine and snacks.
Christmas is one of the most beautiful and brightest holidays on earth. Many people have hopes and expectations associated with it for something important, fabulous, magical. And those for whom waiting is no longer appropriate, and there is nothing to do, can arrange a holiday for their loved ones: Christmas is a great reason to spend a few days with dear people, surprise them and give them, for example, a weekend in Europe. In our selection you will find a list of places where, according to experienced tourists, it is best to celebrate Christmas.
1. Classic Catholic Christmas
In order to get acquainted with all the traditions and enjoy the special flavor of Catholic Christmas, it is best to go to Old Europe: the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, France, Poland, Germany. In all these countries, Christmas markets are already opening: many charming shops with countless souvenirs, sweets, mulled wine and punch. You can spend more than a hundred euros in these markets – but it’s worth it! At Christmas, European cities become like those fairy-tale kingdoms that we once read about in the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm and the great Andersen: maybe real magic even happens in them.
In Germany, Nuremberg is considered the capital of Christmas, where the country's main Christmas market opens. In France, Paris itself is turning into a magical kingdom. In Hungary, Budapest hosts a music and wine festival at the end of December, and in Belgium and Denmark there is a Christmas beer festival.
But experienced tourists call two cities the most beautiful Christmas cities: Prague and Vienna. It’s really difficult to choose between them, but BusinessTimes is leaning towards Vienna: 6 Christmas markets are already open in this city, the city hall has turned into a fairy-tale castle, and the park next to it has turned into a magical kingdom, with colored glowing lanterns and huge candies and icicles in the treetops . The entire city dresses up in colorful garlands and the festive atmosphere gradually captures all residents and tourists.
2. Classic Northern Christmas
You can see a traditional Christmas with northern landscapes in the homeland of Santa Claus - in Finland. Norway or Sweden are also perfect for snow lovers, where you can visit numerous snow festivals, go skiing, but at the same time enjoy the Christmas coziness of small European cities.
3. Christmas for sports fans
If souvenirs and garlands seem unnecessary to you, and the main thing for you is a good holiday with your family and sports entertainment, then the best option is the ski resorts of France, Switzerland, and Italy. For those who would like to relax for Christmas without spending a lot of money on it, we can recommend Poland or Belarus - ski tourism has been actively developing here lately, and even in Belarus you can find good places to relax for a very symbolic price. True, you won’t feel the Christmas flavor there: Belarus celebrates both Catholic and Orthodox Christmas, but not as widely as in Old Europe.
4. Christmas on the Beach
If you are tired of winter, cold and darkness, then a great option is to go to the beach for Christmas week. And here the choice of place depends only on your preferences: it can be either classic Egypt, Thailand, Turkey, or less popular places like Indonesia, India or Cuba. In Goa on Christmas it is about 30 degrees Celsius, so get ready to surprise your colleagues with a wonderful tan when you return to work.
5. Exotic Christmas
This option is suitable for those who have already been to a lot of places and seen a lot of things. If you have some spare cash and want to relax, but are already tired of Europe and Thailand, go to Mexico: there you can try Mexican punch and special sweet bread, which is baked especially for Christmas - after all, Mexico also celebrates it. Theatrical reconstructions and exotic excursions, warmth and sea - all at your service in one trip. Here you can add the beaches of Brazil or Florida, where the temperature never dropped below 0 degrees Celsius - after all, what could be more exotic than Christmas with palm trees!
In Christian countries, Christmas is the brightest and most important holiday of the year. And it lasts not just one day, but 4 whole weeks. Actually, Christmas in Europe is a month of preparation. Fairs, performances, music, colorful national traditions and food. And Christmas Day itself is celebrated quietly. At home. In the family. The holiday teaches love and care for loved ones.
We were lucky! We found Christmas!
Most countries in Europe profess Catholicism, there are Lutherans, there are Anglicans, there are Huguenots, there are other branches of Christianity, but Christmas itself in Europe in most countries is the night from December 24 to 25. If you want to relax, get impressions, look at the sparkling streets and buildings decorated with original illumination, buy souvenirs and get good discounts in stores, then you need to go to Europe from November 20 to December 25. According to a tradition that arose in Europe back in the 13th century, Christmas markets begin 4 weeks before Christmas.
Fairs are especially widely represented in big cities. Stockholm, Brussels, Paris, Prague, Cologne, Munich, Berlin.
Even small towns are being transformed. Moreover, it was during these small towns and it's interesting to go.
According to ancient religious tradition, there is a special time before Christmas Eve - Advent. This is 24 days, which includes special behavior - first of all, fasting and living according to the days of the Gospel story. This includes making toys and decorating the Christmas tree. In many European countries, families make a wreath from spruce branches. This wreath is decorated with 4 candles. Sculptural groups depicting gospel scenes are installed in squares, streets and inside churches - shepherds following a star, wise men bringing gifts, King Herod and his soldiers, the flight of the Virgin Mary, the birth of the baby Christ, Joseph and, of course, angels.
The week of preparation includes choosing and purchasing gifts. These gifts on the eve of Christmas are placed in a sock and hung from the baby's crib or placed under the tree.
Advent ends with a festive service. And at noon on December 24, people rush home to get ready to celebrate Christmas with their families. This is a family holiday of the joys of being with loved ones, happiness and care for loved ones.
Which country should you go to in December to catch Christmas in Europe?
In Europe, the Christmas holiday is from December 24 to 25, except for Orthodox countries. They celebrate Christmas, like ours, from January 6 to 7 according to the Gregorian calendar.
The Gregorian is our regular government calendar. The Orthodox Church uses the Julian calendar. According to the Julian calendar, Christmas is also from December 24 to 25, but due to the time lag of the Julian calendar, the Julian December 24 falls on January 6 of the Gregorian calendar.
So be careful when choosing a country to travel to. If you come to a Catholic country on January 6 to take part in the Christmas holiday, you will not find anything.
Even the New Year is celebrated quietly and calmly: a couple of fire pitards and - bainki. All Christmas trees, gifts, holiday sweets and goodies ended on December 25th. Those. you will see calm winter Europe.
Christmas from December 24 to 25 in: England, Austria, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Czech Republic, Poland, etc.
There are also Muslim countries in Europe. They have different traditions.
Friends, we are now on Telegram: our channel about Europe, our channel about Asia. Welcome)
Christmas markets in Europe
Christmas markets in Europe begin in November and last for 4 weeks. They close down on December 24th. The squares are empty. People go home. Only traces of the former feast remain on the streets and squares.
Galka and I were lucky. We took part in the holidays, ate gingerbread, got drunk on punch, attended services, bought souvenirs, and even on December 29, when we got to Göttingen, we found the Christmas market! Locals said that this does not happen) Usually these days everything is already closed and folded.
Although, in fact, not all European cities adhere to the rule of closing fairs on December 24th. For example, in Berlin this year the fair will begin on November 25 and end on December 29. In Strasbourg the fair will last from November 26 to December 31. By the way, this city is considered the birthplace of the first Christmas tree. So, if you didn’t manage to get to the markets before December 24, run to Strasbourg to Place Kléber.
But in 2017, the fair will last from December 2 to January 6, 2018. You will have time to buy handmade puppets, Bohemian crystal, Czech glass. The fair will delight you on Republic Square from November 30 to December 30.
Who brings gifts at Christmas
In many countries, according to tradition, gifts are brought by Saint Nicholas - Santa Claus. Images of Santa are part of the decorations; on the streets, street musicians, sellers, and couriers wear red hats. Pet owners put red caps on their pets. So on the streets you can see funny dogs and even cats wearing a Santa hat.
Santa's fleet-footed reindeer
But there are other traditions. So in Austria, gifts are given not by Father Frost and Santa Claus, but by the golden-haired baby Christkindl - a charming baby in a white robe.
In France, everything is much more complicated. In my opinion, even here, during the holiday, the French tendency towards bureaucracy is visible. In France there is “Father Frost” - Père Noel, “baby Jesus” - Petit Noel, the Magi: Caspar, Balthazar and Melchior, as well as another stern and angry character who “keeps order” - Père Fouétard. He walks around with rods and watches how the children behave. He tells Per Noel how the child behaved, whether he deserves a gift or punishment, and what gift should be given to the baby.
In Italy, there is a custom: children write letters not only to Santa, but also to their parents, about how much they love them.
I really like these features of preparing for Christmas. I would like some traditions to be instilled in us too. As for the old man with the rods - I don’t know, I probably don’t want to) But the tradition of writing a letter of love to your parents, in my opinion, is wonderful.
Where to celebrate Christmas in Europe
Is it necessary to go to the capitals of states to see and experience the atmosphere of a universal holiday?
No. Not necessary. In Europe there are not as many territories suitable for living as we have, and the structure is not imperial. There is, of course, the capital of the state, but the light has not converged on it like a wedge. The whole of Europe is dotted with many well-groomed buildings, the heart of which is the central cathedral, town hall and square. There are castles and castles with squares. They are also preparing for the holiday.
In small ancient cities everything is the same as in large ones. In my opinion, they have even more charm.
In our opinion, Germany ranks first in celebrating Christmas. In every corner of this country you will find a square, a town hall, a Christmas tree and Christmas markets. And a lot of joyful people on the streets, eating sausages and drinking hot gluwein or punch.
Taking care of their history, the Germans restore not only churches, but also residential buildings. It’s amazing to walk along the street where there are neat, fresh picture houses with flowers on the windows and balconies (but not in winter, of course) and read the year of its “birth” on the house. The houses are not simple - some are 300-400 years old! There can be more!
Christmas impressions
Now imagine, you are walking in the twilight along the streets of a medieval city, the snow is crunching under your feet, snowflakes are melting on your cheeks, and the aroma of food and spices is wafting through the air. From somewhere in the streets you can hear the noise of celebration and laughter.
You turn the corner... and in front of you is a sea of lights - in the center of the square, not far from the famous sculpture in the city (almost every city in the square has some kind of sculpture associated with a local legend) stands a beautiful Christmas tree.
Rows of tents with Christmas souvenirs, toys, balls, angels shimmer with sparkles and tinsel. Row after row of merchants displayed their “gifts for the Magi.” And the “magi” crowd right there, choosing the most beautiful, most tender, most touching gift for their relatives. “At Christmas everyone is a little wise man...”
It’s a strange thing, but at different times of the day, Christmas in Europe dictates different moods...
It’s not even like that, in one day of Christmas you manage to be in all ages!
In the morning it’s just aching joy in anticipation of the holiday. “The life ahead is like an unopened book!”
The day is early childhood. In the snow there is a modest ribbon of a labyrinth - someone was rolling three treasured balls for an eternal sculpture. And around it there are rare large footprints and everything is trampled down by small ones - a father taught his child to sculpt a snowman? And here is the creation itself - standing with its arms raised up and its black eyes bulging at the bright winter sun.
Then there’s the kind of childhood when your parents aren’t afraid that you’ll fall off the carousel, so they let you saddle up on the wooden horse yourself and spin around on it until you get tired of it. And behind the carousels are ancient attractions. And the most important thing is a test of strength. And behind them is a scene where the eternal magician takes out an immortal rabbit from an ancient black top hat. And no matter how many years pass, every time - well, where did this rabbit come from!
Carousels and a magician are followed by adolescence: meetings with first friends and first love. There are sticky lollipops and candied nuts in a bag, and roasted chestnuts in a paper bag, and tart candied fruits and colorful gingerbread cookies on ribbons... and on the gingerbread cookies are such important first words - “Happiness”, “Merry Christmas!”, “I love you!” »
And, of course, a special Christmas apple pie, sprinkled white with powdered sugar. The layer of powder symbolizes the snow-white veils of the infant Christ.
The hands are approaching 16 o'clock - youth begins. At this time, the doors of the churches are open, preparations are underway for the festive service and evening concerts.
It’s evening – time for meetings. Dozens of glowing and shimmering stalls with national Christmas food. Pies with cabbage, tartlets, fried ribs, Vienna sausages.
Vienna sausages are a rather strange phenomenon, akin to a roller coaster. In Russia the attraction is called the American Coaster, and in the USA it is called the Russian Coaster. It’s the same with sausages: in Germany they are called Vienna sausages, and in Austria – Wurzburg sausages.
I wonder at what border the names change so dramatically?
Performances by choirs and groups also take place on the street, at the foot of churches, in the square. There are crowds of people, but there is no feeling of a crush. There is a Holiday.
National features of Christmas
Of course, each European country has its own national characteristics of Christmas. It all depends on the national color and traditions. In the Czech Republic and Austria, horse-drawn carriages travel through the streets.
In Vienna, the best operas are broadcast on the street.
In Nuremberg, on the balcony of the cathedral beloved by the Germans - Frauenkirche, dedicated to the Virgin Mary (in our opinion - the Church of the Virgin Mary) - an Angel appears and blesses everyone who came to the square.
In England, on Christmas night it is customary to place lit candles on the windows. That's why the night has its name - the night of candles.
There is a funny tradition in Germany: after the family has celebrated Christmas in their warm, narrow circle, the time for the next close circle begins - the circle of friends. That's why Germans visit friends on December 26th. And here, according to tradition, the owners of the house show their Christmas tree, and the guests should praise it, say: “what a beautiful tree.” After this touching ceremony, the owners of the house bring a glass of alcohol to the guests.
In Italy, shepherds from the mountainous regions of the country appear on city streets a week before Christmas. They play national music on national instruments. The coming of the shepherds to the city symbolizes the gospel shepherds who came for the star to the newborn God-Infant.
In the coastal regions of Greece, it is customary to decorate a spruce tree with a ship.
Each European country celebrates Christmas differently. But the general features are the same: joy, winter sales of goods, fairs (markts), gifts, performances, national cuisine and the obligatory gluwein (mulled wine) and hot toddy.
This is the tradition of spending Christmas in Europe.
And Vienna marked the beginning of such noisy and cheerful celebrations. In 1294, the first Christmas market was held in Vienna. Then this tradition was picked up by large trading cities.
An eight-hundred-year tradition! It sounds respectful.
If you still have doubts, then leave your doubts and go to Europe for Christmas. Any city will give you the feeling of the most touching and memorable holiday. And, if you visit more than one country, but have time to travel through several European countries, you can learn the national flavor, get a boost of happiness, and become an expert in national cuisines!
Sincerely, And.
When it comes to celebrating the New Year, everyone chooses their own way to celebrate this holiday. Some sit at home in front of the TV, others rush around the world, trying to get as many impressions as possible on this day.
In this article we will figure out where to go to Europe for the New Year holidays. There are many places in Europe where you can celebrate this bright holiday. Everyone wants bright memories to remain after the New Year. Therefore, I have selected for you the most interesting options for cities and hotels that will help create an atmosphere of magic and fun. After all, the main night of the year.
In all European cities, New Year celebrations are approximately the same. I will try to highlight the distinctive features of each option. I’ll also say hello to air ticket options and recommend good hotels and tours to Europe for the 2018 New Year holidays. Go!
New Year holidays in Europe – where to go?
London, Great Britain
Photo © ramnaganat / flickr.com / License CC BY 2.0
Why?
London looks especially magical during the New Year. The whole city shimmers with festive lights. If you like England, then it’s time to decide to celebrate the New Year there.
Things to do?
If you decide to ring in the New Year in London, visit London Wonderland in Hyde Park or book a table at a club/bar/restaurant to enjoy delicious food and great music. Be sure to watch the Queen's Parade - a real three-hour extravaganza that runs along the Thames. Usually about 300,000 people and 10,000 artists and musicians gather here.
Watch the New Year's fireworks from the famous London Eye. Count down the strikes to midnight with Big Ben. Sing "Auld Lang Syne" with the crowd. Stroll along the Victoria Embankment and Waterloo and Westminster Bridges.
Helpful advice
Save on housing in Europe by renting apartments from locals with Airbnb. Get 2100 rub. as a gift for your first booking.
Ibiza, Spain
Photo © frank-lammel / flickr.com / License CC BY 2.0
Why?
Where in Europe it’s warm on New Year’s Day is Ibiza. The average daytime temperature is +17 degrees Celsius. The island of Ibiza is famous for its vibrant nightlife. If you like warmth, club life and dancing until the morning, then Ibiza is the best choice for you.
Things to do?
Celebrate the New Year at Ibiza's most famous nightclub, Pacha. Keep your eyes, mouth and ears wide open, you're in for a very fun holiday at this place.
If you suddenly want luxury and quiet solitude with your family, head to Hacienda Na Xamena Spa Hotel, here you can just relax and enjoy life, everything else will be done for you.
Where to stay?
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Photo © donaldjudge / flickr.com / License CC BY 2.0
Why?
Dubrovnik is one of the less obvious places in Europe where you can celebrate the New Year, but no less wonderful. People most often come here in the summer and ignore it in the winter, which is a shame!
Things to do?
If you want to get really drunk and have fun on New Year's Eve in Dubrovnik, then go to the Latin American clubs Fuego, Capitano or Revelin.
If you want to immerse yourself in the flow of celebrating people, then head to Stadun Street and Big Dubrovnik old Town Street. Sit back and listen to a wonderful concert of Croatian bands. Of course. There will be fireworks.
Where to stay?
Barcelona, Spain
Photo © barcelona_cat / flickr.com / License CC BY 2.0
Why?
New Year's Eve in Barcelona is not for the faint of heart. Celebrations and festivals here begin at 21:00. You can walk the streets, listen to music, watch performances, drink and eat various delicacies. Barcelona is another place where you will be warm for the New Year, with an average of +15 degrees.
Things to do?
New Year is celebrated here with great pomp and the holiday is called Nochevieja. All the fun starts at Montujic’s Magic Fountain. Both locals and tourists from all over the world gather here to count the chimes together and celebrate the New Year. There are also very beautiful fireworks here.
New Year in Paris, France
Photo © johnvanhulsen / flickr.com / Licensed CC BY 2.0
Why?
Paris for the New Year offers the widest range of New Year's parties for every taste. If you want to visit one of the best places to celebrate the New Year, feel free to go to Paris. New Year's Paris is beautiful, just look at the Cathedral on the Champs Elysees.
Things to do?
If you want some variety on New Year's Eve, then you've come to the right place. Cruise on the Senna and sightseeing with a delicious lunch at Bistro Parisien, champagne and a colorful show at Crazy horse, beautiful Bluebells girls from Lido de Paris and much, much more. Whatever way you choose to celebrate the New Year in Paris, it will definitely be memorable.
Where to stay?
A special choice for a special day is Eiffel villa Garibaldi.
Madeira, Portugal
Photo © madeiraarchipelago / flickr.com / License CC BY 2.0
Why?
If you want something more exotic, then head to the Madeira Islands. They look very elegant on holidays. And celebrating the New Year on the island is a completely special feeling. In addition, Madeira is also warm, on average +18.
Things to do?
The Madeira Islands are known for their sales in December and many people come here for shopping. New Year's fireworks look very beautiful from the islands. Here, the New Year begins to be celebrated slowly from the beginning of December until the twelfth night (greetings from Catholic Christmas). The entire island is beautifully decorated and there are concert programs everywhere you look. The Madeira Islands are a place where you should stay longer, and not just for one night.
Berlin, Germany
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Why?
Vienna, Austria
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Why?
Vienna is traditionally considered one of the best cities in Europe to celebrate the New Year.
Things to do?
Residents of Vienna gather in the city center for the New Year to walk the “New Year’s Path” or “Silvesterpfad”. The party starts at 14:00, people slowly pour out into the street and refuel with hot mulled wine and caramel apples.
At midnight the Pummerin bell rings from the tower of St. Stephen's Cathedral and the first fireworks are set off over Prater park.
The famous “palace on rails” - the Majestic Imperator train invites you to celebrate the change of year in luxurious style with a gourmet dinner and tie at midnight on the Danube bridge, from where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the city and festive fireworks.
For a more relaxed New Year's Eve, head towards the Town Hall to watch the New Year's Eve concert projected on the big screen.
The main thing is to eat at least a little “Glücksschwein” or “good luck pig”. Pork on a festive night is sold in all types and forms.
Be sure to eat some Glücksschwein, or good luck pigs, which you'll find in every form, from suckling pig to pig marzipan. New Year's Vienna will delight and surprise you.
Istanbul, Türkiye
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Why?
At the very least, you don’t need to worry about a Schengen visa. Türkiye is an unusual representative of Europe and the New Year can be celebrated here in a completely special way. The weather in Istanbul on New Year is also quite warm, about 7 degrees above zero.
Things to do?
Istanbul also changes for the New Year. Start your evening with a traditional Turkish lunch at Bebek or Istiklal Caddesi, where the celebrations take place in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Then join the cheering crowds at Taksim Square, Istikul Street or Faith, where revelers organize impromptu street parties. The best view is from the Golden Horn.
If noisy parties are not your thing, then you can take a river cruise along the Bosphorus and watch the celebrations from afar, passing by the city. But you will have the best position to watch the fireworks at midnight.
Where to stay?
Prague, Czech Republic
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Why?
Prague is another great option for those who want to celebrate the New Year in Europe and are looking for an inexpensive place to go. Many Russians like to celebrate the New Year in Prague. Besides, it's not far. In Prague on New Year's Eve there is a very dramatic (in a good way) atmosphere. You have many options for where to start celebrating.
Things to do?
New Year's Prague will delight you with a variety of opportunities. There are many good clubs, bars and restaurants here. You can start the holiday on a jazz cruise along the river, or you can join the city residents in Old Town Square. You can go to some beautiful place, such as Lesser town, Petrin hill or Prague castle. At midnight, the most interesting thing is in the main square.
In Prague there is a cute tradition of breaking champagne bottles, sometimes on your head; if you want to participate, bring a helmet.
Gdansk, Poland
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Why?
New Year's in Gdansk is a lot of fun. You should definitely come here if you love food. In Gdansk they believe that the more you eat, the better your next year will be.
Things to do?
Of course, have a good meal at Wigilia, and then go and get really drunk at Skwer Kosciuszki, and then have a good dance at the Walrus club.
The most festive streets of the city are Dluga and Pl. Teatralna.
Where to stay?
Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Why?
Amsterdam is often called the city of love, and if you want to celebrate the New Year in a romantic setting, then this is a great choice.
Things to do?
New Year's Amsterdam surprises. In addition to organized celebrations in public places like Rembrandtplein, Nieumarkt, Museumplein and Dam Square, Amsterdam hosts many impromptu “chamber” parties that you can join. And if you want to celebrate the New Year in a crowd of joyful people, then you should go to the above streets.
Of course, it won’t be complete without festive fireworks. The best view is traditionally from the bridges, when you can see the lights not only in the sky, but also their reflection on the water surface.
Grab a glass of champagne and local delicacies from the street vendors, and make a wish with everyone as the chimes strike. And then go to any bar, club or restaurant to continue the celebration.
Stockholm, Sweden
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Why?
Christmas in Sweden is celebrated in a very calm atmosphere, but on New Year's Eve in Stockholm they have a blast.
Things to do?
Despite the fact that the Swedes are a Nordic country, they still prefer to celebrate the New Year on the street. Therefore, eat delicious seafood in some good restaurant, and then go towards Skansen to see the most New Year's Stockholm. The New Year has been traditionally celebrated here since 1895. At midnight, some famous Swede will read the poem “Ring Out, Wild Bells” to the accompaniment of fireworks.
After midnight, after walking around, drinking champagne and hugging Swedes, go to a club or bar. As a rule, they work until 3 – 4 am.
If you want to celebrate the New Year in peace and romance, head to Lake Malaren.
When you have free time, go see the local City hall, Sodermalm, Fjallgatan and Monteliusvagen, they really deserve attention.
Where to stay?
Reykjavik, Iceland
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Why?
On New Year's Eve, daylight in Reykjavik lasts only 4 hours, which means locals happily illuminate everything around them with bonfires, bright lanterns and garlands. What turns New Year's Reykjavik into a fairy-tale town.
Things to do?
Light bonfires with the locals as a symbol of burning away the troubles of the old year. There is no official part of the holiday and fireworks are set off by local residents. On New Year's Eve, about 200,000 people take to the streets and half an hour before midnight the sky is colored with lights.
For the best vantage point, head to Perlan or Landakotskirkja Church.
After the festivities, many go to clubs and bars. Because Icelanders leave home to celebrate the New Year relatively late, and then celebrate until the morning. If you wait until 5 a.m., you'll see locals lining up to drink up their hangovers and snack on hot dogs. Many people go to hot springs to improve their health.
Helsinki and Lapland, Finland
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Why?
The world's most popular Santa Claus lives in Finland. It is here that the atmosphere of the New Year's miracle is felt very clearly. If you want to celebrate the New Year with children, then choose Finland.
Things to do?
First, decide on the location of the celebration: Helsinki or Lapland?
The main holiday of the country takes place in Helsinki, on Senate Square. Local residents gather here to drink champagne, listen to the mayor’s congratulatory speech, watch a festive concert and tell fortunes on small tin horseshoes.
In Finland, fireworks are allowed for only 8 hours, so the Finns have a blast, coloring the sky with colorful lights and the air with pops and the smell of gunpowder.
