Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Europe

As a traveler it can be somewhat challenging to find New Year's Eve parties to attend, particularly without the benefit of insider knowledge or a local friend. Still, there are great things to do in Europe for people visiting Europe during the New Year celebrations.

Vienna

Each year, the Vienna Philharmonic presents its special New Year's Eve concert at the famed Musikverein concert hall. Also featured are members of the Vienna State Opera and Volksopera ballet companies.

The event usually sells out.

Another particularly special New Year's event in Vienna is the Kaiserball at the Hofburg Palace, where actors dressed as Empress Sisi and Emperor Franz Josef greet you to ring in the new year.

Paris

The area around Sacre Coeur Cathedral in Montmartre, the Arc de Triomphe at the Champs Elysees, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower, are the places to be at midnight for an exciting view of the fireworks over Paris.

For a more low-key celebration, consider a New Year's classical music concert at a church such as St. Germain des Pres or Sainte Chappelle. And if you're a ballet lover, celebrate the new year with a performance of the Paris Opera Ballet at the Palais Garnier or Opera Bastille. Performances are held at both venues on December 31st.

Rome

Rome celebrates San Silvestro (New Year's Eve) with fireworks and music at Piazza del Popolo. I Musici Veneziani di Roma holds a New Year's Concert at St. Paul Within the Walls Church.

London

To the sounds of Big Ben, the London holds its fireworks display at the London Eye, the giant ferris wheel offering views of the city. Try to get a spot on the Thames River for a good vantage point to see the fireworks. On New Year's Day, the crowds enjoy the London Parade, featuring music and performers.

Berlin

Berlin hosts its New Year's Eve celebrations at the Brandenburg Gate with a giant fireworks display.