11 Best Places in Europe for New Year’s: Solo Travel (2025)
There is so much pressure around figuring out the best places in Europe for New Year’s and having a good time to the point it can get frustrating.
After spending NYE in many European cities and party capitals, I developed a list of the best cities in Europe for New Year’s for everybody who wants to spend the craziest night of the year partying.
The cities on this list are some of the best places to visit in Europe in winter, and I am sure you will love exploring them during this festive time, whether you party or not!
Here’s your New Year’s Eve solo travel guide!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!
1. Krakow, Poland
Located in the south of Poland, the picturesque town of Krakow has a reputation as one of the best European cities for New Year.
With more bars per square meter in the city center than in any other city in the world, it is not hard to see where that reputation comes from.
There are lots of things going on for New Year’s in Krakow, with the main event being the open-air concert on Market Square. It is the best spot to wait for midnight and watch the fireworks.
If you are not a fan of Polish music or the cold weather, you will appreciate the clubs more than the concert. And there is no shortage of clubs and pubs in Krakow!
Some of the best things to do in Krakow during the day include strolling the cobblestone streets of the Royal Road, exploring Krakow Castle, visiting Wawel Cathedral, and learning about WWII history.
The average temperatures in December and January are around 4-0℃. Krakow is a lively town despite the weather, and you can warm up with mulled wine at Krakow’s Christmas Market.
Where to stay in Krakow for New Year’s?
With its reputation as a party hub of central Europe, there is no shortage of party hostels in Krakow.
Here are some of the best-rated hostels in Krakow:
- Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel is a party hostel and is the best-rated party hostel in Krakow. They offer many free activities and have pub crawls basically every night. If you are coming to a party in Krakow, this is the place for you.
- Greg & Tom Hostel is more of my vibe. It is a sister hostel to the “beer house” but it is a social hostel instead of a party hostel. So, if you are looking for a place that organizes social events, family dinners, and a free breakfast – I’d book this one before it sells out!
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
2. Berlin, Germany
The capital of Germany is one of the most popular New Year’s Eve destinations.
Berlin is known as a party hub of Europe and is a failproof choice for the wildest night of the year.
Berlin is easy to reach by rail or bus from neighboring countries and has a large international airport.
The New Year’s Eve party at the Brandenburg Gate is the symbol of New Year’s Eve in Berlin. It gets locals and tourists flocking to the biggest party in Germany every year!
After the midnight fireworks, make your way into one (or more) of Berlin’s famous nightclubs.
There are clubs for virtually every scene you can imagine, so you are sure you will find something for yourself!
The average temperatures in December and January in Berlin are around 4-0℃. If you plan on joining the open-air parties, remember to wear something warm!
Where to stay in Berlin for New Year’s?
There is no shortage of hostels in Berlin, and you have a lot of choices when it comes to accommodation.
Best Hostels:
- EastSeven Berlin Hostel is one of the best-rated hostels with a social atmosphere great for solo travelers.
- Circus Hostel is another social hostel that organizes social activities like karaoke and quizzes – fantastic for meeting other backpackers.
- St Christopher’s Berlin Mitte is a party-friendly hostel with a bar, and it might be a great option for solo travelers wanting to meet people to go out with for New Year’s Eve!
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
3. Barcelona, Spain
If you are wondering where is it warm in Europe for New Year’s, Barcelona might be your best bet.
Spain is one of the best backpacking countries in Europe, and unlike many other popular summer party destinations, Barcelona does not hibernate in the winter.
Located on the eastern coast of Spain, close to the border with France, Barcelona is well connected to many European destinations by train, bus, and budget airlines such as Easyjet and Ryanair.
The official New Year’s Eve live concert takes place at Plaça d’Espanya, and it is a great place to wait for midnight and see the fireworks.
Another open-air celebration takes place at Plaça Catalunya, so you can check out both and see which music you prefer.
After midnight, make your way to La Rambla and the numerous bars and clubs in the area. The New Year’s party in Spain does not end until the morning.
A fun New Year’s Day tradition in Barcelona is to swim in the sea on the first day of the year. The event starts at noon and takes place in Playa de San Sebastian. A perfect way to cure a hangover!
The average temperatures in Barcelona in December and January are 10-14℃, which makes it one of the warmest places on this list.
Where to stay in Barcelona for New Year’s?
While it is best to stay close to the city center and La Rambla, Barcelona has a great public transport system, and you can quickly reach any destination with a metro.
Best Hostels:
- Kabul Party Hostel is the place for you if you are ready to get the full experience of Barcelona’s famous nightlife. It is considered one of the best party hostels in Europe, and if it is available you should book it quickly!
- Onefam Les Corts is a great social hostel that organizes events, great for meeting other travelers.
Honestly, Barcelona has so many highly-rated hostels that you will find one for you! Read the reviews before booking to make sure the hostel is a good fit.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
4. Belgrade, Serbia
The capital of Serbia, Belgrade is regularly on the list of the best party cities in Europe.
Located in Eastern Europe, unlike most other highly rated party destinations in Europe, Belgrade is incredibly cheap – perfect for your backpacking Europe budget!
The best way to get to Belgrade is by flying. There is an international airport that connects Belgrade to many destinations around the world. You can also take a Flixbus from neighboring countries.
Belgrade is best known for its clubs along the riverfront – splavovi.
However, there is no shortage of nightlife options as they range from upscale rooftop bars to local music diners.
Traditional open-air New Year’s concert is held in front of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia. I was there for New Year’s in 2014, and it was incredible!
It takes over the whole park in front of it and is a super popular event among the locals.
If you are not from the Balkans, you probably won’t be familiar with local music. But don’t worry! There are many places with international music all over the city, for example, the Stefan Braun Club.
The temperatures in Belgrade for New Year’s Eve tend to be under 5℃.
Where to stay in Belgrade for New Year’s?
The best place to stay in Belgrade is in the city center, and you can take cheap public transport or taxis to any other location you’d like.
Best Hostels:
- Balkan Soul Hostel is located in the city center and is highly rated among backpackers for its friendly vibes.
- El Diablo Hostel Belgrade is run by travelers themselves. They take pride in making the hostel super travel-friendly which is perfect for solo travelers.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
5. Prague, Czechia
The stunning capital of Czechia is another popular choice for European New Year’s destination.
Prague is often named one of the best party cities in Europe, with cheap beer and numerous bars around the city center, so you can see why!
It is easy to reach Prague from all over the world. It has an international airport and is a budget airline hub. If you are coming from neighboring countries, there are also many rail and bus lines to choose from.
Typically there is a free open-air New Year’s celebration on the Old Town square and fireworks at midnight.
If Czech music is not your thing, there are many pubs and nightclubs in the city center to enjoy. There are even river cruise party boats!
The temperature in Prague for New Year’s Eve is around 0℃.
Where to stay in Prague for New Year’s?
Prague is a must-stop on every backpacking Europe itinerary, so there are many great hostels in the city to choose from.
Best Hostels:
- The MadHouse Prague is a cult party hostel in Prague. It is right in the city center and organizes daily activities. Everything you’d want from a hostel for New Year’s Eve!
- The RoadHouse Prague is a perfect hostel – clean, with great facilities, super social – but not a party and shoots at 6 pm. Ideal for solo female travelers who want to meet others!
- Hostel One has multiple locations in Prague, and they all share their social atmosphere. They organize daily and nightly events.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
6. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of the European backpacking hubs and one of my favorite cities to visit.
It is an ideal combination of central European prices and Western European elegance!
There is no shortage of fun things to do in Budapest! It is a city full of culture, history, and incredible nightlife.
Open-air New Year’s concert is held on Vörösmarty Square, and it is an excellent place to wait for midnight fireworks before continuing the night in one of many clubs and ruin bars.
The ruin bars are somewhat endemic to Budapest, as they repurposed old buildings into bars and clubs, without renovating them.
The most popular one is Szimpla Kert, but there are many others to discover.
Budapest is cold in the winter, with average temperatures around 2-4℃.
Where to stay in Budapest for New Year’s?
You will be spoilt with choice when it comes to hostels in Budapest. Well-known for its nightlife, there are numerous party hostels to choose from.
Best Hostels:
- Hostel One Fam is part of a well-known hostel chain in Central Europe popular among solo travelers for its many social activities.
- The Hive Party Hostel is, as the name suggests, a party hostel. There is not much to say, it is super well-rated, and they organize daily events. If you want to party, look no further.
- Avenue Hostel is one of the biggest hostels in Budapest and a super social hostel. They organize daily events and have large common areas.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
7. Amsterdam, Netherlands
When people think of the most open-minded cities in Europe, Amsterdam must be at the top of their list.
At the same time, Amsterdam is a city full of culture, stunning architecture, and romantic canals. It is truly an all-over great for solo female backpackers!
Amsterdam is a popular NYE destination and one of the best places to start backpacking in Europe.
Get lost in the UNESCO World Heritage cobblestone streets of the city center, and join the festivities on Dam Square or basically any big square in the city.
Unlike most cities on this list, Amsterdam’s public transport stops its service at 8 pm for New Year’s, so plan to get to the city center early or grab a bike!
Average temperatures in Amsterdam for New Year’s Eve are around 5℃ with fair chances of rain.
Where to stay in Amsterdam for New Year’s?
Amsterdam is a popular backpackers destination, so there are many hostels in the city!
Best Hostels:
- Flying Pig Downtown is located in the city center and highly rated for its social atmosphere, perfect for meeting other travelers. They are chain and have a couple of hostels around town.
- Hostelle – Female Only Hostel is great for girls trying out staying in hostels for the first time and are worried about safety Having a female-only hostel is a great alternative!
- ClinkMama is a boutique hostel well-rated for its social atmosphere, without being a party hostel. A perfect in-between!
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
8. Paris, France
Is there a better place to celebrate New Year’s in Europe than in the city of lights itself?
Paris is traditionally the first choice for a romantic New Year’s Eve. However, the French capital is a fantastic destination for everyone, with various events at iconic places.
It is well worth considering as a New Year’s destination if you like open-air parties in beautiful settings.
You can easily reach Paris from all over the world, as it has three international airports close to the city. If you are already in Europe, it is well connected to neighboring countries by an extensive rail and bus network.
The official Parisian street New Year’s party takes place at Champs-Élysées.
Thousands of Parisians and tourists flock to this free music event culminating with a light show and traditional fireworks over the Arc de Triomphe at midnight.
For an ultimate Parisian experience, you can join the unofficial gathering in front of the Eiffel Tower. As there is no actual event there, I find it is more fun if you’re in a group.
The party in Paris does not stop at midnight! There are many clubs where you can continue partying until early morning.
Paris is a great place for anyone looking for high-end, super-dressed-up nightclubs as well as casual, lowkey alternative spots.
The average temperature in Paris for New Year’s is around 5℃, so keep that in mind when packing!
Where to stay in Paris for New Year’s?
Paris is not a budget-friendly destination, to begin with, so staying in a hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower on a backpacker’s budget is unlikely.
But Paris has excellent public transportation that will bring you to your destination in no time. Usually, it is free for New Year’s!
Best Hostels:
- The People – Paris Belleville is a cozy hostel in Belleville with organized events during the night, perfect for solo travelers!
- St Christopher’s Inn Canal is another St Christopher’s hostel on this list. With a bar and a club on site, you know you’ll have a good time!
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
9. London, UK
The New Year’s Eve party in London is almost as iconic as NYE in New York. The lively capital of the UK is a popular destination for Christmas and New Year’s festivities.
Unlike any other place on this list, you actually have to book a ticket to see the iconic London fireworks over the London Eye.
However, you can do many other things in London on this day. New Year’s Celebrations in London range from VIP club parties, and river cruises to casual open-air concerts.
Next day, check out the annual New Year’s Day Parade in central London.
The average temperature for New Year’s Eve in London is from 6°C to 4°C with chances of rain, as we are in the UK after all!
Where to stay in London for New Year’s?
The UK is one of the most expensive European countries, so staying in hostels is a great way to stay on budget.
London is a huge city with many hostels to choose from. At the same time, the public transport in London is impeccable, as long as you’re close to the metro station, you’re good to go!
Best Hostels:
- Hostel One Notting Hill is part of the Hostel One chain, well-known for its social vibes, free daily events, and popularity among backpackers and solo travelers.
- Wombat’s City Hostel is perfectly located next to Tower Bridge. It is well-rate for its social atmosphere and friendly common spaces.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
10. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, is probably one of the cheapest places to go for New Year’s in Europe.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has been gaining popularity as a backpackers’ destination lately, and while it is certainly off the beaten path for most backpackers, it is well worth a visit!
Sarajevo is one of the best cheap New Year destinations Europe offers, with party lovers from Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro coming to celebrate every year.
Sarajevo has an international airport, but depending on the seasonality of the flights, it might be easier to fly to Zagreb and take a bus to Sarajevo – check the bus lines here.
Find the cheapest flights to Sarajevo here.
A traditional open-air concert is held yearly on one of the town’s squares – Narodno Pozorište. After midnight you can party until the morning in one of the many bars in the city center.
End your night, or morning at this point, with a traditional meal. Sarajevo is well-known for its delicious food. My favorite snack is accidentally vegan – potato pie. (pita od krumpira)
Where to stay in Sarajevo for New Year’s?
Sarajevo is not a large town, and with cheap taxis, you’ll be fine staying all over the city.
Best Hostels:
- The Good Place Hostel is a social hostel with a large common room and group events for travelers.
- Balkan Han Hostel, located in the city center is one of the best-rated hostels in Sarajevo, especially among solo travellers.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
11. Canary Islands
We’re closing this list of the best places for New Year in Europe with an unusual suggestion – a sunny beach destination.
The Canary Islands are the warmest place in Europe for New Year’s. Yes, they are geographically closer to Africa than Europe, but they are part of Spain!
If you want to enter into a new year while sipping cocktails on a beach while still theoretically staying in Europe, the Canary Islands are the perfect place for you!
With average temperatures dancing around 20℃, the Canary Islands offer a great change of scenery from freezing continental Europe.
Which Canary Island is best for New Year?
Generally, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote are the hottest of the islands in December. Las Palmas on Gran Canaria is also the largest city on the islands.
Tenerife and Gran Canaria have the most hostels out of all islands and are the most popular among backpackers.
Best Hostels:
- HiTide House is the best-rated hostel in Gran Canaria. Their goal is to promote the backpacker lifestyle, so they organize many events. Perfect hostel for solo travelers!
- Lagarto Hostel Tenerife is the best-rated hostel in Tenerife if you choose to go for this island.
Book as far in advance as you can, as the best places sell out quickly for New Year’s.
What makes a city a good NYE destination?
There are several conditions for a place to be on the list of solo New Year’s Eve trips.
If you are a solo female backpacker backpacking Europe in winter, you’ll probably want your New Year’s Eve destination to fulfill these conditions.
Well-known for its nightlife
All the places on this list are famous for their lively nightlife, and the nightlife there is not just seasonal.
While places like Mykonos are a place to be during the summer, it is not the liveliest of places in the winter.
Find out how to enjoy nightlife as a solo female traveler.
Must-stop cities on backpacking Europe itineraries
Assuming you are looking for the best place to party in Europe, as a solo backpacker, you’d want to spend New Year’s where other backpackers will be.
All cities on this list incorporate perfectly into backpacking Europe in winter itineraries and are on most backpackers’ radar.
There are social/party hostels in the city
Most European cities have hostels these days, but not all hostels are made the same.
Among many different types of hostels, you want to look for a “party hostel” or a “social hostel”.
I rarely recommend party hostels to my age group, as I sometimes feel like I’m too old for party hostels.
I’ve stayed in some throughout my travels, and while I did have a good time, I needed to be in a specific state of mind to enjoy it.
However, New Year’s Eve is one exception when I think party hostels are a great idea! They are a foolproof way to make friends when traveling.
Depending on your traveling style, age, and overall energy, party hostels might be too much. My favorite type of hostel, social hostels, are the next best thing, or the best thing if you’re not planning on going crazy this New Year’s Eve.
Final Thoughts: Best Places For New Year’s in Europe
Europe has plenty of fantastic NYE destinations for solo travelers and budget backpackers.
The best cheap European cities for New Year’s Eve, are Belgrade in Serbia, Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Krakow in Poland.
If you are looking for a warm New Year’s in Europe, you can’t go wrong with Barcelona or Canary Islands.
Berlin, London, and Paris are safe choices if you can afford a splurge NYE in Europe celebration, while Budapest and Prague are perfect budget-friendly alternatives.
If you’re spending December in Europe, combine your New Year’s trip with a visit to some of the best European Christmas Market destinations.
