If you’re thinking of jetting off somewhere exciting for New Year’s Eve in 2012, Barcelona has to be near the top of your list. The Spanish are known for their love of partying, so there’s nowhere better to see in 2013 in style.
While it’s easy to get carried away with planning where you’ll be when the clock strikes midnight, make sure you don’t forget to book your accommodation – you’ll need to have a place to crash when all the festivities are over. You can find more information about some of the available options here.
Once you’ve got the practicalities sorted out, it’s time to decide how you want to spend New Year’s Eve in Barcelona.
Join a street party
If you’re on a bit of a tight budget for your getaway, heading to one of Barcelona’s street parties could be your best option, as you can join in with all the revelry here without having to pay a hefty entrance fee.
On December 31st, the biggest crowds gather at Plaza de Catalunya and along Las Ramblas. As the clock hits midnight, don’t be surprised to see people eating grapes – it’s a tradition in Spain that if you eat one grape for every chime, your wish for the coming year will come true. Get involved with the fun and see if you can manage it.
There are also spectacular fireworks displays over Barcelona that are best viewed from somewhere outdoors, so this is a great opportunity to enjoy the spectacle without having to spend a lot of cash.
Head to a club
Before midnight, many of the celebrations will be taking place at family homes, as this is traditionally a time when parents, children and other relatives gather together for a large meal.
You shouldn’t be surprised, therefore, if the clubs and bars don’t fill up until after the start of 2013. One of the biggest and best NYE parties will be held at Razzmatazz, a super-club in the city.
It’s a great choice if you’re travelling with a group of friends who all have varied musical tastes as it has got five rooms, each of which plays different tunes. So, everyone should be happy if you head here for your evening out. It’s worth noting that booking your tickets in advance can save you money on admission, while it’s cheaper to get in after midnight than before.
Another option is Sala Apolo, a venue that regularly plays host to famous DJs and holds other concerts. On December 31st this year, a selection of DJs will be spinning the decks into the early hours of the morning. Entry costs €16 (£12.85) per person, with the doors opening just after midnight.
Go for dinner – Spanish style
If you’d like to have an authentic Spanish New Year’s Eve experience – and you have the money to spare – book a table at one of Barcelona’s top restaurants in the evening. Many of the city’s establishments will have special menus on December 31st, with the likes of Ribelino’s, Shoko and Rita Blue among the eateries you can visit for a meal before you hit Barcelona’s clubs.
Some of the restaurants – like Shoko – even have their own club, so you could look into whether there are any deals available that will provide you with dinner followed by entry to one of the best parties in town.
