Arguably the cycling capital of the world, no one is going to deny that Amsterdam sure knows how to throw a good party and its New Year’s Eve celebrations are no exception.

Just a short drive, boat ride or flight from the UK, Amsterdam is so easy (and cheap) to get to that it makes for a great budget NYE getaway for groups of friends, couples and families.

To join in the lively party scene, head to Dam Square early to bag a good spot to view the fireworks, watch the live entertainment shows and get more than a little tipsy from visits to the beer tents. If crowds aren’t really your thing, the great thing about Amsterdam is that you can pick any bridge around the city to watch the multitude of fireworks lighting up the city at midnight set off both from organised events around the city and from people’s homes.

On New Year’s Day, rent a bike (or hop aboard your own) and explore the city by bicycle if it’s your first time in this beautiful city. If you’re eager to explore a little further, then cycle the 57 mile route to Rotterdam and visit one of the largest ports in the world.

For those looking for an even longer, multi-day route, Amsterdam is a great point to begin cycle routes to Bruges, Brussels and even Paris. But remember that is will be pretty chilly in December and January in these countries so you may want to save these longer routes for the summer.