Europe's best cities for New Year's Eve

Join the crowds gathering along the South Bank, as you wait with suspense for one of the world's most spectacular firework shows to erupt. After Big Ben has chimed midnight, the London sky lights up for ten minutes with around a quarter of a million people in attendance.

A unique way to experience this special night is on a party boat, taking you from Festival Pier all the way to the Thames Barrier, then back to Big Ben for the new year crescendo. Party on in London's top clubs - many venues require tickets, so book in advance for the best places.

New Year's Eve (Silvester to the Germans) is one huge party in Berlin. Brandenburg Gate attracts over a million party revellers. You'll be wowed by impressive light and laser shows, a massive fireworks display and a decent line-up of bands and musicians.

You won't be short of marathon all-nighter opportunities in Berlin. With nightclubs open well into the daylight hours, you'll be able to experience the city's underground scene of concrete, steel, hedonism and endless partying. Find the perfect dancefloor to let out your inner party animal!

On New Year's Eve, thousands of people descend upon Edinburgh's streets to breathe in the electric atmosphere of the Hogmanay Street Party. As the clock strikes midnight, Edinburgh Castle becomes a stunning backdrop as the firework show illuminates the city's skyscape.

Need a proper wake-up call on New Year's Day? if you're feeling fit (and slightly stupid) take part in the Loony Dook, which involves stripping down to your swimming costume or ridiculous fancy dress (preferred!) and running into the freezing waters of the Forth Estuary.

Prague is guaranteed to light up your New Year's Eve celebrations. Book a ticket for one of the city's popular party boats. Float along the Vltava river as you enjoy great food, drinks and music, plus enviable views of the midnight firework display.

Alternatively, join the large crowds gathering in the Old Town Square and welcome the New Year in with a bang – the Czechs love setting off their own fireworks! Charles Bridge is another great spot to watch as the New Year explodes across the background of this enchanting city.

There are so many great outdoor squares to get sucked into the buzzing atmosphere of Amsterdam's Oud en Nieuw (Old and New). Parties start on the streets with people wrapped up warm and nibbling on Oliebollen – traditional dough balls covered in icing sugar.

Welcome the new year with a bang by the Amstel river for the New Year's pyrotechnic show. There are parties galore across Amsterdam to keep you up all night, with a good selection of house and techno. Get tickets early to avoid being left out in the cold.