Every country has its own way of ringing in the New Year, and Europe is no exception. The largest capital cities tend to have equally large celebrations; however, the unique traditions and ceremonies vary from country to country. Whether you are looking to celebrate with fireworks or a quiet night in, you will be able to find your ideal New Year’s Eve in Europe.
France
Parisian nightclubs are generally packed on New Year’s Eve (or, in French, “la Saint-Sylvestre.”) The night is also commemorated with a lavish feast (typically including pancakes, foie gras and champagne) called “le Réveillon de Saint-Sylvestre” and a formal ball or “soirée dansante.” The next day is the first of the year, or “Jour des Étrennes.” It is marked with a gigantic parade through the streets of Paris that ends right under the Eiffel Tower. Other activities include gift-giving, cruises down the River Seine, torchlight processions to pick grapes at midnight, and pranks among children (similar to the American April Fool’s Day) to honor a tradition called the “Poisson d’Avril.”
New Year’s Eve in Italy, or “La Festa di San Silvestro,” is a celebratory affair filled with food (especially lentils to symbolize money and good fortune, and pork to symbolize the richness of life in the upcoming year) and drink (a lot of prosecco, Italian sparkling wine.) Fireworks, music and dancing also play major roles. Big cities like Rome and Naples are hubs of excitement, and Bologna hosts the annual Fat Ox Fair. In the southern part of the country, locals celebrate by throwing their old things out the window to ready themselves for a new year—and don’t forget to wear red underwear for luck!
Not surprisingly, the city of Amsterdam is a happening place on New Year’s Eve. If you’re looking for a big party scene, definitely head here on “Old Year’s Evening” (which is what the locals call the holiday.) Parties and nightclubs aside, the Netherlands has a handful of unique New Year’s traditions. Locals typically spend the day visiting friends and family members and historically, men were required to eat and drink a glass of liquor at each home they visited. Other distinctly Dutch traditions include burning Christmas trees, eating donuts (anything in the shape of a ring is thought to bring good fortune) and—most famously—diving into the freezing cold waters of the North Sea at noon.
Like in other major cities around the globe, London rings in the New Year with a huge fireworks display. Fancy restaurants and nightclubs are packed on New Year’s Eve, and many opt to take a cruise down the romantic River Thames. Additionally, London hosts the largest fetish ball in Europe—the Torture Garden New Year’s Eve Ball—on the big night. The next day, British locals celebrate in unique ways: the old customs of the “burning of the bush” and “first footing” are still followed in earnest. The latter tradition states that the first male visitor to enter a house on New Year’s Day brings good luck (he also brings with him auspicious gifts, like bread or money.) A blonde, red head or woman is not allowed to enter first. Lastly, the UK has one of the world’s largest New Year parades.
One of the most interesting New Year’s traditions in Germany is the custom of “Bleigiessen,” or the telling of fortunes. Molten lead is dropped into cold water, and the shape it takes predicts the future of the person in question. Locals also leave a bit of every food on the table until after midnight; this is thought to ensure plenty of food in the upcoming year. Quirky customs aside, Germany celebrates the New Year as most other countries do: with eating (especially fish, lentils, cabbage and carrots for good luck), drinking and general merriment. The giant celebration on New Year’s Eve is called “Brandenburger Tor,” and it is accompanied by fireworks and ringing church bells.
The ideal European holiday typically involves a lot of down time—leisurely afternoons in which to shop and tour art museums, nights solely dedicated to fine dining and drinking, and late mornings free of business obligations. However, sometimes this indulgent experience is simply not possible. For those occasions when one needs to travel in and out as quickly as possible, nothing beats an airport hotel. Here are the five busiest airports in Europe, and the best hotels near their terminals:
London Heathrow Airport
The largest airport in the United Kingdom actually handles more international passengers than any other in the world. Whether you are visiting London or just passing through, chances are high that you will land in London Heathrow. The airport is actually located in the Borough of Hillingdon, 14 miles (22km) west of Central London. However, that does not mean that hotels near London Heathrow Airport are not great home bases from which to explore the city! Try the elegant Arora Hotel Heathrow, or the reliable Holiday Inn London Heathrow.
Paris – Charles de Gaulle Airport
Situated to the northeast of Paris, this bustling aviation centre is the principle hub for Air France. It therefore handles a lot of international traffic; in fact, it is the second busiest airport in Europe. Paris – Charles de Gaulle Airport (also known as Roissy Airport) can be found within several communes 16 miles (25km) to the northeast of the city centre. The Pullman Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, the Sheraton Paris Airport Hotel and other hotels near Charles de Gaulle Airport are therefore convenient places to stay.
Frankfurt Airport
The busiest airport for passenger traffic in Germany is undoubtedly Frankfurt’s, located 7.5 miles (12km) southwest of the city center. Additionally, Frankfurt Airport is close to several other important destinations. The city of Cologne, Stuttgart and the Ruhr Area may all be reached within two hours by ground transportation. Therefore, the greatest hotels near Frankfurt Airport (like the NH Frankfurt Airport and the Sheraton Frankfurt Hotel & Towers Conference Center) are excellent places to stop along the way.
Madrid – Barajas Airport
Since first opening in 1928, Madrid – Barajas Airport has grown to be the fourth busiest in Europe. Unlike other international hubs of aviation, Barajas is actually located within the limits of its namesake city. It can be found 5.6 miles (9km) from the financial district, and 8.1 miles (13km) from Puerta del Sol (the historic centre of Madrid.) Hotels near Barajas Airport, including the upscale Clement Barajas and the more affordable Hostal El Cruce, are quite close to local tourist attractions.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Whether you prefer a 4-star establishment like the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel or an economical option like the Yotel Schiphol Airport, you will find your ideal home base among hotels near Schiphol Airport. The major hub of international transportation is actually located in the municipality of Haarlemmermeer, 5.6 miles (9.1km) southwest of Amsterdam. It can be reached in 20 minutes by car or public transportation, and is therefore quite close to business centers and tourist attractions.
It is no secret that Amsterdam is a partier’s dream. From the infamous Red Light District to the city’s many bars and nightclubs, there are countless ways to get into trouble here. However, there are also many sacred sites and churches in Amsterdam. Whether you are the religious sort looking for a place to worship or a tired club-hopper looking to repent for the night before, you may find yourself drawn to one of these awe-inspiring attractions.
Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder
The Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, or the Museum Amsterlkring, dates back to the 17th century. It was converted from a merchant’s private home into a sanctuary during a time when only the Dutch Reformed Church was legally allowed to hold public services. The practitioners of other religions had to hide their gatherings in secret venues like the attic of this ancient house. A pipe organ and an opulent baroque altar were brought into the secluded haven, which is still regarded by Catholics as a sacred site. One odd thing about the church is its location in the heart of the Red Light District.
the interior of the Museum Amstelkring
Portuguese Synagogue
Inspired by the Temple of Solomon in Jerusalem, this beautiful synagogue was completed in 1675. Since then, it has served a very specific purpose: to provide solace to the descendants of 15th-century Sephardic Jews who, after fleeing to Portugal to escape religious persecution, were forced to convert to Christianity. The synagogue was built to welcome those Jews to Amsterdam, where they could finally live freely. Many worshippers still flock to the Portuguese Synagogue to pay their respects and admire the brass chandeliers and architectural details.
Oude Kerk
The oldest building in all of Amsterdam, the Ourde Kerke was started in the late 13th century. The “Old Church” was once the center for religious life in the city, and was supposedly where Rembrandt registered to marry his wife. Among the landmark’s most attractive features are its spectacular Vater-Müller organ, its various small chapels, and its furnishings from the late 16th century. Also note the stone slabs on the floor; they mark the graves of some of Amsterdam’s most legendary residents.
the famous Oude Kerk
Nieuwe Kerk
The counterpart to the Oude Kerk, the Nieuwe Kerk (“New Church”) is often compared to Westminster Abbey because it is where Dutch monarchs are inaugurated. It was built as a Catholic sanctuary in the 14th century, and it miraculously survived the country’s change to Protestantism. Beautiful details like stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodcarvings, and an impressive pulpit and pipe organ remain. The Nieuwe Kerk is also known to stage large-scale exhibitions that draw thousands of locals and tourists.
Begijnhof
A cluster of white-trimmed, brick dwellings surround an enclosed courtyard that is carefully hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is Begijnhof, the former home of a unique community of religious women. The area served as the order’s private domain from the 14th century until 1971. Although the last of these women have since passed away, Begijnhof still upholds their fascinating legacy. Take time to discover the pulpit’s four panels designed by Mondrian, the oldest wooden house in Amsterdam (built in 1477) and the secret Catholic church hidden behind an unassuming façade.
Sun, sand, sea—these are things that people typically associate with summer getaways. However, even the most devout sun worshiper can sometimes feel the need to escape the heat. If you are looking for a chic way to cool down this summer, head to one of these ice-cold European ice bars.
Although the idea of an ice bar is no longer new, this is still the only such venue in the City of Lights. Paris’ stylish Ice Kube Bar can be found in the Kube Rooms, a design-conscious hotel that draws a hip and urban crowd. Eye-catching details of hot pink and faux fur accent a bar made of glowing glass cubes. A cover charge of 38£ per half-hour buys you entry, a pair of gloves and winter parka, and up to 4 vodka-based cocktails by the exclusive Grey Goose brand. Recommended hotels in Paris include the Hôtel Bedford and the Adagio Paris Tour Eiffel.
The Absolut Icebar was the first permanent ice bar in the world. It is located within Stockholm’s elegant Nordic Sea Hotel, and it maintains a chilly climate of -5ºC all year-round. The entire bar is made of 100% pure ice harvested from the Swedish Lapland’s Torne River. Prices and hours vary depending upon the season but your entry fee always includes a warm cape, gloves and a cocktail served in a glass made of ice. Many great Stockholm hotels, like the Scandic Sergel Plaza and the Radisson Blu Royal Viking Hotel, can be found in the area.
Another branch of the same chain found in Stockholm, London’s ABSOLUT ICEBAR is the only permanent ice bar in the UK. Its stunning design is made even more so by the location—within the former wine vaults beneath the belowzero restaurant & lounge on Heddon Street. Once a gathering place for the British monarchy, the address now attracts a hip and young clientele. The theme of the bar changes periodically; right now, it pays homage to the magical depths of the sea. Many great hotels in London (including the Westbury Mayfair and the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge) are nearby.
The XtraCold IceBar brings the ice-cold phenomenon to Amsterdam—and even takes the innovative concept a step further! The popular venue offers unique features like 3D movies in a contemporary bar kept at a cool -10ºC. Great for groups of travelers looking for something new, the hip and trendy ice bar was the first in the Netherlands. Since 2006, it has remained one of the city’s most exciting tourist attractions. For the full experience, book a room at one of the many nearby Amsterdam hotels. The Hotel Casa 400 Amsterdam and the Hotel Estheréa are great choices.
Kept at an optimal -5ºC, the Ice Club Roma offers welcome respite from the heat in Rome. As the only ice bar in the city, the nightclub-like venue is a unique tourist attraction. Unlike similar bars sponsored by specific brands, the Ice Club Roma offers a wide range of cocktails. Of course, the drink of choice is still vodka—and it is still served in a freezing glass made of ice. After an unforgettable evening here, retire to one of many nearby hotels in Rome. The Starhotels Metropole and the Hotel Serena are popular.
In the United States, Memorial Day is celebrated at the end May as a time to remember those who gave their lives in military duty to preserve global peace and freedoms. In Europe, various countries have similar holidays (such as Remembrance Day in the UK), and in the US it is not uncommon for veterans and others to embark on special tours of landmarks to recognize in person the events that changed our history and honor those brave enough to make it happen. For some, the journey is personal – whether reliving the camaraderie of fellow soldiers, or remembering a loved one who served. Monuments across the continent remain to remind us that peace is definitely the more preferable option.
Last night we happened to catch the last half of Saving Private Ryan, a beautifully-realized film that shows as accurately as possible the scars of war. We got to thinking, if one planned a tour of World War II monuments to visit as part of a remembrance holiday, what should be seen? Some museums and sites popped instantly to mind, while others took some research. These are highly recommended places to visit any time of year for your own pilgrimage.
Perhaps one of the most popular museums in the Netherlands, the house that once served as a hiding place for Anne Frank and her family is probably one of the best known in the world. Here visitors can peek at the secret annex where Anne wrote in her diary and dreamed of liberation. A poignant stop on any Dutch tour.
Site of some of the bloodiest battles of World War I, Flander Fields is now known for the poem of the same name, and for the poppies that grow there. The tiny red flowers are traditionally handed out on Remembrance Day, “lest we forget” the thousands of men who perished. Day tours into the beautiful Belgian countryside are chartered year round to take visitors onto the former battlefields and through neighboring towns ravaged by the war, but since restored to their former glory.
Stately memorials surrounded by lovely gardens highlight this large visitor center dedicated to those from around the world who fought for freedom and preservation of peace. There are remembrances for veterans of all the major world conflicts, and admission is free to anyone who wishes to stroll the grounds in reflection.
