Go Dutch this New Year in Old Amsterdam!

Hop over to Holland in time for December 31 and you can ring out the “oud” and ring in the “nieeuw” in a stylish fashion in the exciting, unique city of Amsterdam.

So brush up some choice Dutch phrases, especially Gelukkug Nieuwjarr (“Prosperous New Year”) and go in search of some serious revelry!

As anyone who’s been to the Dutch capital for New Year’s Eve will tell you, fireworks usually form the most memorable part of the night-time celebrations. Expect to end the year with cracks, bangs, whizzes and plenty of sparkle.

While organised displays take place in different places every year, the streets around Nieuwmarkt, in the heart of the city’s Chinese community, Rembrandtplein and Dam Square are among the most common locations.

Things can get a little lively to say the least. So if you prefer to watch the displays from a slightly quieter vantage point, Amsterdam’s bridges are full of perfect spots to do just that, particularly those spanning the Amstel River, such as the Magere Brug, or “Skinny Bridge.”

Don’t worry if you haven’t been invited over for a party. Amsterdam has plenty to choose from you can go to, at bars, clubs and music venues.

And if you’re able to stay on in the city for a few days after the big celebrations and you’ll be able to explore Amsterdam in its post-holiday calm. Despite the low hotel rates, very cheap flights, and the shopping bargains on offer in the twice-yearly sales, the tourist crowds are at an all-time low this year.

Winters in Amsterdam are not especially harsh, but you can always seek refuge in cosy cafes and restaurants if you’ve been walking around outside for a while. You will also catch this mesmerising city at its most beautiful and atmospheric at this time of year.

Don’t mistake quieter for boring, though! Amsterdam still runs a full programme of events and activities in January, so there’ll be plenty going on.

Best of all is the open-air ice skating, with rink-side refreshments at “koek-en-zopie” stands a seasonal favourite. Indulge in traditional winter-time staples such as “stamppot”, a vegetable mash made of root vegetables like potatoes and parsnips, often enjoyed with smoked sausage, or “olie bollen” (literally “oil balls”.) The latter are thought to be the precursor to the donut, and often made with dried fruits, powdered sugar and generous amounts of cinnamon.

And, of course, all the usual Amsterdam attractions, from the Van Gough Museum to Anne Frank’s house, are there to be visited without the crowds.

If you fancy travelling later in the month you’ll still find plenty of available cheap flights to Amsterdam, and the seven days of January are given over to Amsterdam International Fashion Week. You don’t have to be a die-hard fashionista or industry insider to love it!

So, while January can be one of the greyest months of the year back home, and regular New Year’s celebrations a bit of an anti-climax, it doesn’t have to be like that.

Book a break to old Amsterdam with a low-cost operator like Flybe, and ring in the changes! It’s not too late to pick up some serious New Year bargains.