There are many looking forward to a fresh start for 2017, and this year more than ever there is a good reason to ring the New Year in style in some of Europe’s best destinations.

Barcelona

Barcelona’s beach city lifestyle remains a firm favourite with travellers through the year, with its mild climate meaning from early spring to late autumn there’s a chance you’ll find enough sun to warrant bringing shorts. However, in a city that never really goes into hibernation, New Year is set to revive the party atmosphere for numerous celebrations to welcome in 2017.
 
The W, Barcelona
 
At W Barcelona, a circus-themed gala show, Circo Beat, will be mixing flowing cocktails and culinary delights with some spectacular live performances and hours of music for revellers to move to on the dance floor. A more refined gala supper is also on offer at their Bravo 24 restaurant with Carles Abellan’s specially-selected menu.
 

 
Stay in one of the vast Wow or Extreme Wow suites to take in views across the Mediterranean and to the city. Locals will mostly be at home celebrating with family when the clock chimes 12 – and maybe attempting the Catalan tradition of eating 12 grapes to match each chime to bring prosperity for the new year. Afterwards, however, they will emerge to enjoy parties of all kinds in the city’s numerous bars and clubs, known for not shutting early. Fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport and celebrate the New Year in luxury.

Dubrovnik

If you prefer something more intimate Dubrovnik is a perfect choice, with a number of their luxurious hotels offering tantalising New Year’s Eve menus and the chance to unwind after celebrations in one of their plush spas, or simply take a seat on the terrace for breathtaking views of the Adriatic.
 
Dubrovnik, Croatia
 
Locals on the night will stroll along the city’s main street Stradun, where bars and restaurants will quickly fill and the celebrations will begin. Stay in the old town and explore its streets while there, without the summer crowds, and walk the almost 2km long ancient city walls.
 

 
Good bases include St Joseph’s in the centre of the old town, just off Stradun, where just 6 suites in this beautifully renovated 16th century stone building provide a wonderful romantic retreat, or try the larger Villa Dubrovnik, with stunning views and a very well-regarded spa. Book your jet to Dubrovnik Airport, just 30 minutes from the city centre.

Hogmanay

If you want to embrace local tradition, Hogmanay in Edinburgh could be just the thing. Steeped in history and one of the most important dates in the Scottish calendar, a very full programme of events have been planned by the city to run from December 30th to January 1st.
 
Fireworks above Edinburgh
 
From fireworks to live music in venues across Edinburgh the city is set to come alive. Opening with a torchlight procession through the streets on the 30th, particular highlights on the 31st include the Night Afore Concert with Paolo Nutini headlining and the Street Party, where The Charlatans will be playing, with 4 separate stages drawing thousands.
 
The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh - Image courtesy of Hotel-r
 
Places to stay include The Witchery by the castle, for a getaway from the crowds in one of their 9 theatrically decorated suites full of rich baroque touches and candlelit charm, or the elegant and grand Balmoral. Fly to Edinburgh Airport and be at the Balmoral in half an hour from landing.
 

 
With so much to choose from, Europe features cities of all types that celebrate New Year in their own special way. From winter seaside partying to a waterfront romantic retreat, and of course the revelry of streets coming to life with a cacophony of music and cheer, make sure you join in and ring in a prosperous and happy 2017.