4 Stunning Spots to Spend New Year’s Eve in Paris

As one of Europe’s most romantic cities, Paris is a hotspot for holiday travel. After the hustle and bustle of Christmastime, travelers seek out the perfect destinations to end the year right—with elegant parties, sparkling champagne and booming fireworks.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Paris is an experience unlike any other. With stunning historical architecture to house the festivities and a street lined with high-end retail shops in which to shop for the perfect outfits, your New Year’s Eve out on the town will be filled with magic.

1. At One of Paris’ Most Iconic Landmarks—The Eiffel Tower

What’s better than spending New Year’s Eve at a tower known around the world as a symbol of both Paris and France as a whole?

This impressive piece of architecture is one of the absolute best places to enjoy New Year’s Eve in Paris. Though there are no official fireworks shows organized by the city, the tower does sparkle with a fantastic light show when the clock strikes midnight.

Smaller unofficial fireworks shows are spread out across the city. Head up to the top of the tower to see if you can spot any throughout the night. The views of the city are unrivaled from here, providing a romantic New Year’s experience.

2. With a Dinner Cruise on the River

The Seine runs right through the city of Paris, making it the perfect spot to ring in the New Year. Dress up in your finest clothes then hop aboard a boat for a dinner cruise you won’t soon forget.

There are plenty of different cruises to choose from so do some research to decide which fits your style the best. Cuisine will be especially extravagant for the holiday, with special menus reflecting the atmosphere of the night.

Once your meal is over and you’ve had some champagne, hit the dance floor and dance the night away.

3. Get Wild at Paris’ Famous Champs-Elysées

The real party begins at the Champs-Elysées, where locals and visitors flock to ring in New Year’s Eve in Paris. The crowded environment is reminiscent of New York’s Time’s Square.

The street is lined with restaurants and clubs that are perfect for dining and dancing before celebrating the start of a new year. At midnight, head outside and look toward the Eiffel Tower—the Champs-Elysées offers stellar views of the tower’s light show.

The Arc de Triomphe is also located here; the city tends to hold special New Year’s Eve event underneath the landmark as well.

4. Take in Panoramic Views at Sacré-Cœur

Another fantastic spot is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre. The endless stairs in front of the cathedral lead to some stunning lookout points with excellent panoramic views of the city.

As you look over the rooftops, keep your eyes peeled for small fireworks shows. This area is a little more laid back than the Champs-Elysées so it won’t be nearly as crowded. There are still plenty of restaurants, bars and clubs within walking distance. Find a spot to grab a bite to eat. Then, spend the rest of the evening meeting new people, dancing or watching a live show at one of the local cabarets.