Looking to kick off 2025 with an unforgettable celebration? Whether you’re tired of the same old hometown party scene or simply craving an adventure to cap off your year, we’ve rounded up the most spectacular places to go for New Year’s Eve around the globe.
From the dazzling fireworks displays in Dubai to ancient cultural traditions in Tokyo, these best places to travel for New Year offer experiences that will make your New Year’s Eve trips truly memorable.
1. Tokyo, Japan
Skip the typical countdown parties and dive into meaningful things to do on New Year’s Eve in Japan. Join thousands of locals in the time-honored tradition of “hatsumode,” the first shrine visit of the year. At the stroke of midnight, temple bells ring out 108 times (yes, exactly 108 – it’s said to cleanse away the previous year’s troubles), while Tokyo Tower lights up the sky in a spectacular display.
Remember to grab your “lucky bag” (fukubukuro) from major department stores on January 1st. These mystery bags filled with discounted goodies are a beloved New Year tradition that’ll give you something to open beside your midnight champagne.
2. Sydney, Australia
Want to be among the first to welcome 2025? Sydney’s got you covered with what might just be the world’s most photographed New Year’s celebration. The harbor city knows how to throw a party, with over 100,000 pyrotechnic effects illuminating the iconic Sydney Harbor Bridge and Opera House.
If you want to skip the crowded waterfront, book a spot at the Royal Botanic Garden’s Midnight at the Oasis. You’ll get the same spectacular view without having to stake out your spot at down. Those looking for extravagant things to do on New Year’s Eve can splurge on a harbor cruise and get front-row seats to the show while enjoying a five-course dinner and enough champagne to make you forget what year it is.
3. Las Vegas, Nevada
Think you know how to party? Known as one of the best New Year destinations in the USA, Las Vegas offers a grandiose celebration with fireworks and outdoor concerts. The entire Strip shuts down to traffic, creating a pedestrian paradise of revelry that stretches for miles.
Book a high-floor room at the Bellagio or Caesars Palace – you’ll get a bird’s eye view of multiple fireworks shows while avoiding the street-level chaos. If you’re feeling lucky, the casinos are still open. The city that never sleeps is definitely not taking New Year’s Eve off.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh‘s Hogmanay is more than just a New Year’s Eve party. It’s a three-day festival that ranks as one of the best places to visit for New Year’s with family. Start with the Torchlight Procession, where thousands of people wielding flaming torches create a river of fire through the city’s historic streets (yes, it’s as epic as it sounds). Then there’s the New Year’s Eve party, where the entire city becomes one massive celebration zone.
Here’s the true test of Scottish fortitude: join the “Loony Dook” on New Year’s Day, where brave (or crazy) souls plunge into the freezing Forth River wearing costumes that range from hilarious to questionable.
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
If your idea of the perfect New Year’s Eve involves dancing on a beach with two million of your closest friends, Rio’s Copacabana Beach celebration is where you should be. Dress in white (for good luck), jump seven waves at midnight (one wish per wave), and throw flowers into the ocean (to appease Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea).
The fireworks display here stretches for nearly three miles along the beach, creating a light show that makes Times Square look like amateur hour. Book a room at one of the beachfront hotels early – and by early, we mean literally a year in advance.
6. Bangkok, Thailand
Another one of the best places to visit for New Year’s is Bangkok, Thailand. The city takes the concept of a street party and turns it up, with Central World Square transforming into an enormous celebration.
Head to one of the rooftop bars along the Chao Phraya River – places like Sky Bar at Lebua (yes, the one from The Hangover II) offer spectacular views of fireworks reflecting off the river. For something more traditional, join locals at the Golden Mountain Temple, where you can ring in the new year with bell-ringing ceremonies and traditional blessings.
7. Paris, France
The City of Light becomes the city of fireworks as the clock strikes midnight, with the Eiffel Tower serving as the world’s most elegant countdown clock. The Champs-Élysées doubles as a magnificent backdrop, making this one of the premier places to go for New Year’s Eve, especially for couples looking for a romantic experience.
Skip the tourist-packed avenue and book a Seine dinner cruise instead. You’ll get the same spectacular views of the city while enjoying a multi-course French feast. Because if you’re going to welcome 2025 in Paris, you might as well do it with style (and foie gras).
8. Orlando, Florida
Disney World pulls out all the magical stops for New Year’s Eve, proving that the Happiest Place on Earth gets even happier when the calendar turns. Every park offers its own unique celebration, but Magic Kingdom’s fantasy-themed fireworks show makes it one of the best places to visit for New Year’s with family.
To get the most out of your New Year’s Eve trip, park-hop during the day, but settle into Epcot for the evening. The World Showcase turns into an international New Year’s celebration, letting you “travel” around the globe as different countries count down to midnight in their respective time zones.
9. London, UK
When Big Ben chimes midnight, London puts on a show that makes it the best place to visit for New Year’s. The Thames becomes a mirror for thousands of fireworks, with the London Eye serving as a giant light-up countdown clock.
Want to avoid the crowds along the riverbank? Book a spot at The Shard’s viewing gallery – you’ll be above the fray while enjoying a panoramic view of the city’s celebrations. Alternatively, go full British and secure a spot at a historic pub in Mayfair or Soho, where you can toast the new year with a proper pint and some fish and chips.
10. Dubai, UAE
Dubai always goes all out, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. The city’s celebration centers around the Burj Khalifa, where the world’s tallest building becomes the world’s biggest lighting display. Avoid the crowded downtown area and head to Desert Palm Dubai instead. You can watch the city’s multiple fireworks displays from a serene desert setting, with Arabic barbeque and shisha under the stars.
Consider booking a desert safari that includes a New Year’s Eve celebration for something more unique. There’s nothing quite like counting down to midnight while surrounded by endless sand dunes under a starlit sky. It’s truly one of the best places to visit for New Year’s for those seeking opulence and grandeur.
Takeaway
Will you be temple-hopping in Tokyo, beach-dancing in Rio, or watching the world’s most elaborate light show in Dubai? No matter which destination you choose, the key to an epic New Year’s celebration is planning ahead. Wherever you end up, these destinations guarantee a New Year’s Eve that’ll make your usual celebrations look like a quiet night in.
Let the countdown begin! Sign up for FREE on OneAir to access exclusive deals on flights and hotels to all these amazing destinations. With access to unpublished deals from 700+ airlines and over 1 million hotels worldwide, you’ll never overpay for your New Year’s adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most family-friendly New Year's Eve destinations?
For family-friendly celebrations, consider cities like Orlando, Florida, where Disney World presents exciting events for everyone. Tokyo also shines with its rich cultural traditions that both adults and children can appreciate.
How early should I book my trip for a New Year's Eve destination?
It’s best to book your trip at least 6 months in advance, especially for popular destinations like Sydney, New York, or Paris. This ensures better rates and availability for flights and accommodations.
Are there any budget-friendly destinations for New Year's Eve?
Bangkok, Thailand, and Las Vegas, USA, offer vibrant celebrations that can be enjoyed on various budgets.
What should I wear to a New Year's Eve party abroad?
Dress codes can vary greatly depending on the location. Light clothing and sandals are appropriate for beach parties like those in Rio de Janeiro, while more formal attire may be required for celebrations in cities like Paris or New York. Always check the event details ahead of time.
What are some unique New Year's Eve traditions around the world?
In Spain, eating twelve grapes at midnight is traditional for good luck. In Japan, ringing a bell 108 times to eliminate evils is common. Meanwhile, wearing white and jumping seven waves in Brazil are rituals meant to bring good fortune.
What are the best destinations for New Year's Eve fireworks?
Sydney, New York, and Hong Kong are renowned for their impressive New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. These cities offer stunning visual spectacles that are a major draw for locals and tourists.
Where to go for New Year's Eve if I love live music?
Edinburgh, Scotland, is a top choice for live music lovers due to its famous Hogmanay celebration, which features concerts and street parties. Las Vegas, Nevada, also shines with its plethora of live performances and concerts along the Strip, making it perfect for ringing in the New Year amidst vibrant musical acts.
What to do on New Year's Eve if I prefer a quiet celebration?
For a quieter celebration, Bangkok’s rooftop bars, such as Sky Bar at Lebua, offer a serene atmosphere away from the bustling street parties, allowing you to enjoy the fireworks comfortably. Alternatively, a New Year’s Eve dinner cruise on the Seine in Paris provides a tranquil setting to view the fireworks while avoiding the crowded city streets.
