best places to visit on new year

18 Exciting New Year's Eve Destinations to Book Now

Whether you're looking for snow, surf, or something entirely different, we have a fabulous itinerary for you.

What better way to celebrate the end of 2023 than with a fabulous New Year's getaway? Start planning now to ensure you can make the most of these dreamy destinations , be they sunny and sandy, full of hustle and bustle, or snowcapped and cozy.

Ring in the New Year in New York City , or spend it by the fire with a favorite bottle of Champagne in the Rockies. Be one of the first in the world to welcome 2024 in Sydney, or dance the night away in a Mexican town square as the calendar pages turn. Or seek out a unique spot to kick off a new year. Think a luxury cruise or a train ride. Forget the popular—abscond to a remote island or a private beach. Leave the city lights behind, and head for a national park, where you might spot a shooting star (the Quadrantids meteor shower does peak this time of year). Read on to discover our editors' picks for the best places to get away for New Year's Eve.

Sea Island, Georgia

Take the plunge in 2024—the polar bear plunge, that is. It’s just one of many daily New Year’s activities from Mimosas and Masterpieces (a fun twist on paint and sip) to cooking demonstrations featuring the flavors of various local restaurants to rousing games of bingo, a cherished tradition for more than 50 years, on this private island off Georgia’s southeastern coast.

Five-star accommodations await at The Cloister and The Lodge, or rent a cottage for all the comforts of home, plus full resort and beach club access and concierge service. Don’t forget to pack your clubs so you can play a round (or two) on the three championship golf courses.

Each year more than a million people flock to the magnificent harbor of Australia’s largest city to bring the New Year in with a bang. And you won’t find a more iconic or centrally located place to land than InterContinental Sydney, set inside the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851.

Opt for a harbor-view room in the Sky’s the Limit package for front-row seats to the world-famous fireworks extravaganza. After the next day’s recovery brunch at rooftop bar Aster, stroll through the nearby Royal Botanic Garden or along Manly Beach—after all it is summer down under.

Book Your Stay

Get a glimpse of what the future holds with a synastry reading for two as part of Grand Wailea’s Tropical New Year. The couple-centric package also includes a revitalizing massage, a private outdoor yoga or spin class, and premium luau seating. At this Hawaiian oasis, luxuriate in a newly renovated suite featuring a bathroom dripping with Afyon Sugar marble, walls adorned with curated contemporary art, and a secluded lanai furnished with solid teak.

Dive deep into the native landscape and culture with exclusive experiences like a personalized tour of conservation lands with a local guide and hula or kukui nut bracelet–making lessons.

Rio de Janeiro

You, along with about two million of your “closest” friends, are invited to Réveillon (aka New Year’s Eve) on Rio’s famed 2.5-mile curved beach. Dress is smart casual; white is suggested (for good luck in the year ahead). The soiree in front of Copacabana Palace officially begins with drinks at 8 p.m.

You definitely need to arrive by 10 p.m. so as not to miss the big-name musical acts, the fireworks, and the rush into the ocean after midnight to jump seven small waves and make a wish or give thanks with each one. Then move to the hotel pool, where DJs keep the party going ‘til dawn.

Highlands, North Carolina

This quaint town nestled in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains is a delightful winter destination. For beautiful natural surroundings, delicious food, well-appointed rooms, luxe spa services, and true Southern hospitality, stay at Old Edwards Inn and Spa.

On New Year's Eve, make a reservation for dinner at one of the on-property restaurants and toast the new year with Champagne and live music as the clock strikes midnight in the Hummingbird Lounge. The next day, enjoy complimentary Bloody Marys and mimosas while you watch the College Football Playoff semifinal games.

Escape to warmer weather, white sand beaches, and crystal clear water this New Year's Eve. Book a suite or villa at The Cove , a secluded jewel box on this Bahamian island. The intimate resort features a hilltop infinity pool, open-air dining, and a world-class spa. Whether you want an action-packed trip (think swimming with pigs, paddleboarding, kayaking, biking, or snorkeling) or something a bit more relaxed, you can certainly find it here.

We're dreaming of an English holiday this year spent with The Lanesborough as our home base. The legendary mansion turned hotel with the help of Alberto Pinto is seated right off Hyde Park and near some of the city's best shopping and dining and seasonal festivities.

The hotel also offers a New Year's Eve in Residence package with a seven-course dinner at the Michelin-starred flagship restaurant December 31, complimentary breakfast served to your room after a long night, and extra-late checkout to ensure you celebrate big.

New Orleans

If you're looking for larger-than-life fun a little closer to home, then consider spending your New Year's weekend in the Big Easy. This historic Southern city is full of festive programming from a citywide party in Jackson Square to live music and dancing to unforgettable dining at institutions like Galatoire's Restaurant. Maison de la Luz is one of our favorite hotels for a chic getaway with design inspiration from Studio Shamshiri at every turn.

The Caribbean is always a hot spot for leisurely long weekends in the winter, and we're partial to Anguilla's enchanting beaches and ultrafabulous resorts. Book a stay at the Kelly Wearstler–designed Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla with its showstopping villas, impeccable views, and fabulous amenities that offer something for everyone in your party.

Deer Valley, Utah

This luxurious Park City, Utah, enclave is a favorite place to seek adventure, unwind, and reconnect with nature, making it a top spot for a New Year's break. While you can't go wrong with selecting from the incredible roster of resorts and hotels in the area, Stein Eriksen Lodge always earns high marks for its vast array of well-appointed accommodations, award-winning dining at Glitretind, and one of the best spas around.

New York City

What a treat to ring in 2024 in New York City! Reserve a room at the thoughtfully reimagined Park Lane hotel on Central Park South to be at the center of all the city's best activities, and spend NYE with a glass of new- or old-world wine in hand as you take in the fireworks from the 47th floor at Darling, the only rooftop lounge on Billionaire Row.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Jonesing for color, inspiration, and a more temperate clime? Mexico's San Miguel is an ideal choice for kicking off 2024. This vibrant destination is full of New Year's Eve traditions that pull from different countries around the world. Join the citywide celebration in the famous Jardín Allende, where fireworks and dancing take place. Then retreat to Mesón Hidalgo , a converted late 17th-century house by designer Laura Kirar. And leave plenty of room in your suitcase for shopping local makers within the charming hotel.

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, is a top year-end destination, as the city is full of live music and dance performances, fireworks, rooftop cocktail parties, and plenty of other festive activities. Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens hosts a famed dinner and wine pairing on New Year's Eve, along with a party at the hotel. Those looking for a refuge from the hustle and bustle will love the neoclassical accommodations at Monsieur Didot near Neapoli, which is home to some of the city's oldest bookstores.

The Swiss Alps

It doesn't get much better than a wintry Alpine getaway to celebrate the New Year. We're fantasizing about a stay at the glorious Gstaad Palace to spend our holiday skiing, enjoying legendary Swiss wellness experiences at the Palace Spa, and reveling in the luxury hotel's nightlife. The resort also features an annual "Last Dinner" event on New Year's Eve with a spectacular prix fixe menu.

Cape Town, South Africa

New Year's in South Africa's "mother city" means wine dinners at iconic local vineyards, celebrations at the V&A Waterfront, and watching fireworks at Table Mountain. Start the New Year in style at the glamorous Cape Cadogan , a Georgian-Victorian townhouse that has been transformed into a boutique hotel in the enchanting Kloof Street neighborhood. The hotel boasts amenities from jazz tours and safari excursions to food and wine experiences and ecotourism alongside the New Year's festivities.

Sedona, Arizona

Have you been missing some adventure in your life? Us, too. Get the full hiking, biking, and exploring experience in picturesque Boynton Canyon from Enchantment Resort's Trail House. The secluded vacation spot is also home to the world-renowned Mii amo spa . Plus winter is Sedona's slow season, so you won't be facing big crowds while taking a day trip to the Grand Canyon or discovering the desert town's incredible arts, culture, and restaurants.

The Florida Keys

Feel worlds away without a passport with a New Year's escape to the Florida Keys. This stretch of barrier islands is perfect for those looking for more laid-back options in South Florida. Find a true boater's paradise in Marlin Bay Resort & Marina , which features 13 luxury vacation homes on the property. Grab your favorite couple or a few of your dearest friends, and spend the long weekend cruising the Atlantic.

Palm Springs

This quirky Southern California city is a great getaway for a lively yet low-key New Year's Eve. Lounge by the pool all day, or embark on some fun design adventures. Take a tour of the area's famous midcentury modern architecture, visit the Moorten Botanical Garden, and explore the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. Round out your stay at the retro-chic Parker Palm Springs , which will have you feeling as if you're in a glamorous vintage postcard.

Lauren Wicks is a freelance writer and editor based in Birmingham, Alabama. Before going on her own, Lauren worked for brands such as VERANDA, EatingWell, and Cooking Light , and she covers all things lifestyle from interior design and luxury travel to wine and wellness.

Jaime Milan (she/her) is the deputy digital editor for VERANDA, where she writes about design, architecture, gardens, jewelry, fashion, travel, wine, news and trends. In her spare time, she can be found shopping at the antique store, cooking, gardening, or teaching her mini Australian Shepherd, Gumbo, new tricks. Follow her on Instagram at @jaimemmilan. 

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The 15 best places to celebrate New Year around the world

Beach parties, offbeat local traditions and epic firework displays – these are the best destinations to say hello to 2024

Sure, New Year is just another day – a pointless way-marker in the relentless march of time. But when you find the right place to celebrate, it can be a damn good night. Across the world December 31 sees people gathering for a night of revelry, waving goodbye to one year and hello to the next. 

And it's not all fireworks and clubnights: tonnes of places have traditional customs that make them an incredibly unique destination to celebrate, from giant falling potatoes to cramming your mouth with grapes. Here are our top picks for the best places in the world to welcome 2024. As to spending New Year’s Day with an epic hangover? That bit’s entirely down to you.

RECOMMENDED: 🎵The best New Year’s songs to count down to 2024 💃The best albums of 2023 ❄️The best affordable ski resorts in Europe ✨The best city breaks in Europe for 2024

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines  and check out our latest  travel guides  written by local experts.

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The world’s best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve

Edinburgh, Scotland

Best for: all-out partygoers

Pretty much everywhere these days belts out ‘Auld Lang Syne’, but there’s still no New Year’s celebration quite like Scotland . There are few ways to get in the spirit of the season quite like Edinburgh’s legendary Hogmanay , with the city’s dancing, drinking, fireworks and general reverie sometimes lasting for three whole days.

Madrid, Spain

Best for:  fruit fans

Madrid ’s NYE celebration takes place on the Puerta del Sol public square, with the party broadcast to Spaniards across the country. But if you really want to get the full Spanish New Year experience, you’ve got to get involved in an essential local custom. Spaniards typically cram 12 grapes into their mouth at midnight, one by one, as the Puerta del Sol bell tolls. Eat them all and you’re in for a happy, prosperous new year, apparently. And if you fancy doing it all again, just wait for an hour until 1am: since 2018, the bell has chimed again to mark midnight in the Canary Islands .

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Best for:  skywatchers

Chiang Mai in December isn’t just a magnificently cultural city with toasty daytime temperatures of 29C. It also has a really, really spectacular New Year’s Eve tradition which sees thousands of paper lanterns released into the night sky on December 31. Releasing a lantern symbolises new beginnings and supposedly brings good luck – but even if you don’t release one yourself, the sight is otherworldly.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Best for:  charitable displays

Reykjavik doesn’t have an official fireworks display, but that doesn’t stop the Icelandic capital from having one of the world’s most spectacular pyrotechnics every New Year’s Eve. Virtually every one of the city’s inhabitants buys fireworks from ICE-SAR, Iceland’s search-and-rescue department, and lets them off at midnight. It’s a way of both funding the institution for another year and having a marvellous time.

Cape Town, South Africa

Best for:  indecisive celebrators

South Africa ’s ‘Mother City’ is the place to go if you’re not quite sure how to spend your final evening of 2023. You can head to the beaches for a chilled-out launch into the New Year, but the V&A Waterfront, where Time Out just opened a brand-new market , is the place to be for a well-rounded boogie. Carnival-themed performances, food trucks and live music are dotted along this vibrant patch, so eat, drink and dance your night away. 

Best for: community spirit

There aren’t many odd or quirky traditions to be found with New Year’s Eve in London : it’s simply a very wholesome and visually spectacular affair. Revellers line the banks of the Thames and overload the bridges, everyone in the jolliest of moods and with a magnificent view of the UK capital’s skyline, before a countdown at Big Ben and fireworks around the London Eye. Simple, but tremendously effective. Just make sure you buy your ticket as soon as they go on sale.

Sydney, Australia

Best for: jumping the gun 

Sydney has one big advantage over other major NYE celebrations: thanks to its easterly time zone, it’s one of the first big parties to welcome the new year. More than a million attendees gather on boats or on the shore, ready to gaze at light displays over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. And with festivities taking place in the height of the Aussie summer, the weather is decidedly less chilly than most northern-hemisphere NYE parties.

Best for: wavy undergarms

Whether you’re partying on the beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen or amidst the street festivities of Guadalajara and Mexico City , you’d do well to join in with Mexico’s key NYE tradition: colourful underwear. The colour depends on what you’d like from the year ahead; red means love, yellow means money or luck and white means peace.

New York, USA

Best for:  the classic New Year’s

Sure, it‘s predictable – but few cities around the world boast quite such a dizzying amount of action on NYE. Whether you’re there for the classic ball drop in Times Square or the fireworks displays at Central Park, South Street Seaport and Prospect Park, New York at New Year’s has an event on every corner.

Tokyo, Japan

Best for: the culturally curious

When it comes to welcoming in the new year, Japan has no shortage of customs to fill an entire night. You could join the countdown at  Tokyo  Tower, tuck into a meal of toshikoshi soba (a special kind of New Year’s Eve noodles), or listen out for the temple bells, which ring out 108 times in the lead-up to midnight.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Best for:  letting off steam

Been a tough year? Looking to take out your anger on something –  anything ? Head over to Denmark , where there’s a New Year’s tradition of launching plates and crockery at your neighbours’ doors. The more dishes you break, the better luck you’ll have over the next year. And Copenhagen , with its waterside fireworks, also makes for a very pretty – if rather nippy – place to spend NYE.

Naples, Italy

Best for: getting rid of furniture 

While we’re talking about throwing stuff, it’d be rude not to mention Naples . While the tradition is dwindling nowadays, some residents in Italy ’s third-largest city throw household goods out of the window on NYE. That’s usually pots, pans and pillows rather than chairs or cupboards, but maybe watch your head anyway, or you could miss out on the spectacular city-wide fireworks display. Head up high to the city’s hills for the best view.

Quito, Ecuador

Best for: pyromaniacs 

Also getting in on the ‘destroying-stuff-to-welcome-in-the-new-year’ hype is Ecuador, where it’s a thing to burn scarecrow-like dolls filled with paper at midnight on NYE. Intended to banish the demons and bad luck of the past year, the fires – combined with plenty of fireworks displays –  turn Ecuador’s capital Quito into a pyromaniac’s dream.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Best for: beach bums

The appeal of welcoming in the new year at Rio ’s legendary yearly Copacabana beach NYE party is pretty self-evident, but it’s even more special if you take part in local customs, too. Be sure to dress in all white and, at midnight, jump over seven waves. Barefoot on an iconic sandy beach, dallying around in warm water as fireworks crash overhead: it’s quite a way to start the year.

Best for: spud fanatics

As America ’s (and the world’s) potato capital, Idaho is home to a unique New Year’s Eve tradition: the ‘Idaho Potato Drop’. Here’s the lowdown: as the clock strikes midnight and fireworks light up the sky, a freakishly large polystyrene potato falls to earth in front of Idaho’s state capitol. With live music, snowboarders doing tricks and delicious food stands, this is something you definitely won’t see anywhere else. For the full spud experience, book out the Big Idaho Potato Hotel , which is also – you’ve guessed it – a giant potato.

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The 19 Best New Year’s Celebration Around The World

• Travel News

Don’t waste your time trying to find the best places in the world to celebrate New Year’s Eve. We’ve already done it for you.

Not every culture acknowledges January 1st as the start of a new year, but an increasingly interconnected world and booming international tourism mean just about country now holds at least some sort of celebration on December 31st. If the world is your celebratory oyster, that’s both an exciting and daunting prospect as you attempt to narrow down your top choices for champagne, fireworks, and unique traditions. To get you started, we whittled the worldwide list down to the 20 best cities for New Year’s Eve parties and celebrations of all kinds, from quiet coastal reflection to all-night throwdowns among the throngs, including options ranging from frigid far-flung finds to the warmest places to toast the new year in style in the US.

Top Picks for You

New York City

Where: new york.

Year-round, the  Big Apple  is the center of the universe to plenty of people, but on New Year’s Eve, it’s the center for  everyone . There are 40 different time zones counting down to midnight on December 31, but all eyes are on Times Square , as more than one billion revelers around the globe tune in to see the glittering ball drop high above the crowd of one million partiers ringing in a new year. Star-studded concerts entertain the throngs who arrive as early as noon for prime viewing, but rooftop parties citywide provide views of the dazzling fireworks for those not down with squeezing up against strangers on a frigid New York night.

Related: The 35 Best Things to Do in New York City

WHERE: Florida

If you thought Disney was the best reason to go to Orlando , well, you’re still not wrong.  There’s no question that no one does hospitality quite like  Disney , and when there’s a parade and fireworks every night of the year, you can be sure that the holidays are  extra  spectacular. New Year’s Eve at Disney is packed with themed parties, special menus and events at restaurants throughout the parks, and photo ops with all your favorite characters, but A Golden New Year’s Eve in Wine Country is the main event. A pair of gold-painted sommeliers host your journey through two themed event spaces brimming with dazzling entertainers, familiar characters, and that special magic that only can deliver. There’s also a three-course pairing dinner, and fireworks at midnight, of course.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Where: australia.

More people attend New Year’s Eve in Sydney Harbour than in Times Square, and for good reason: the Sydney fireworks may be the most admired and beloved display worldwide. Fireworks launch from the Opera House, nearby buildings, barges on the water, and from Harbour Bridge. The 12-minute display (a minute for each month of the year) uses nearly all parts of the bridge, and includes two special events that have become hallmarks of the Sydney show: the waterfall, a shower of 1,100 candle fireworks streaming from the bridge to the water below; and the “bridge effect,” a pyrotechnic element with a different design each year, relating to the theme of the celebration.

WHERE: Japan

If you’re looking for fireworks and all-night parties, head to Yokohama just across Tokyo Bay. Though not technically part of the city proper, it’s part of Greater Tokyo and, with nearly four million citizens of its own, there’s plenty of action as it’s one of the only regions that celebrates this holiday in Western fashion. Elsewhere in Tokyo, take an alternative approach to New Year’s Eve and visit one of the many temples for the ringing of the bell. At midnight, a monk will ring the temple bell 108 times to cleanse you from your 108 worldly desires and send you into the new year as pure as possible. Crowds form early for this annual tradition, so arrive before 10 pm.

There aren’t many places on Earth to witness more (manmade) spectacles than Dubai , and New Year’s Eve is the perfect time to take it in, especially if you’re looking for one of the best warm-weather spots to celebrate. It’s hot year-round, but December is one of the coolest months in this desert, with temperatures only reaching the upper 70s toward the end of the month. Explosive fireworks around the city are visible from public spaces, but the best views come from the decadent parties held in the city’s towering skyscrapers, especially the world’s tallest, the Burj Khalifa , where parties rage on the 122nd floor. Dubai was once the world record holder for the largest fireworks display ever, launched on New Year’s Eve 2013, before the Philippines unseated the city in 2016. Dubai loves records, so watch for the city to take back the title someday.

Christmas Islands

Christmas Islands may have a stronger connection to another holiday (they were named by Captain Cook when he came across the islands on Christmas of 1777) and are more of a relaxing, natural destination than a party place, but the islands hold a very special place in New Year’s tradition: They’re in the first time zone to reach midnight. A few parties can be found at hotels across the islands, especially in the most populated island of Gilberts, but this is a spot to visit for New Year’s Eve bragging rights more than anything else. You can’t visit the  last  places to see midnight (Baker Island and Howland Island, US unincorporated territories about halfway between Hawaii and Australia, are only accessible by special permit, usually for researchers), so Christmas Islands are your only option for setting a time record of this kind. You’ll most likely hop on a flight from Perth Airport (PER) for a visit here, so settle in for a long journey into your new year.

WHERE: South Africa

Fondly known as South Africa’s “Mother City,” Cape Town is a favorite destination for countless travelers to the continent, and New Year’s Eve is an ideal time to check out the diverse cultural offerings of this scenic city for free. Throughout the famous V&A waterfront area, pop-up performances ranging from opera solos to dance ensembles entertain throughout the evening, with free entertainment all tied to the annual theme. Table Mountain is as   an inspiring scene under midnight fireworks, and Cape Town may be the safest major hub you can tote tots to: The city hands out free location-assist bracelets for you and any little ones you may be celebrating with. Flights to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) will run around $2,000–$3,500 from the U.S. coasts.

WHERE: Greece

Famous for the scale of their celebrations any time of year, Greeks know how to throw a party , and Athenians are especially fond of New Year’s Eve. Large-scale events unfold citywide from exclusive rooftops to countless street festivals, and the low cost of entertainment in this ancient city only adds to its holiday appeal for locals and international visitors alike. Atop the Acropolis, the Parthenon serves as the backdrop to an evening of concerts and other live entertainment before fireworks light up the sky at midnight, but your best bet is to attend one of the many parties at hotels providing rooftop vantage points. Athens is home to a surprising number of these outdoor venues, and just about all of them will be celebrating in style with panoramic views of the pyrotechnics. You could fly to Athens International Airport (ATH) for under $1,000 this December, too, making it one of the cheapest international destinations for New Year’s Eve on our list, too.

WHERE: Colorado

If you’re willing to swap bubbly for beer,  Denver  should be high on your list for New Year’s Eve revelry. Plus, you can enjoy other things in the Mile High City that you can’t legally find in most other cities . But even if you’re looking for the traditional black-tie evening with a champagne toast, Denver is home to tons of balls and galas hosted by everything from hotels ( downtown we like the Brown Palace Hotel ) to the Ellie Caulkins Opera House at Denver Performing Arts Complex. For families, Denver is one of those swell cities that offer an early rendition of their fireworks displays (9 p.m.), and the zoo even hosts a walking safari of 150 illuminated animal sculptures.

WHERE: Italy

Venice is always crowded and, admittedly, this time of year brings even more throngs than usual to the tiny, twisting alleyways of Italy’s famed floating city. But for good reason. Despite the cost, cold, and crammed canals , the magic of the holiday season seems to eke out even more charm than usual from this romantic destination, making it an ideal spot for that midnight kiss.  Venice  isn’t traditionally a party town (at least not publicly), but St. Mark’s Square makes a major exception on New Year’s Eve, with concerts filling the enormous  piazza  until fireworks erupt from a barge in the basin.

Related: 10 Reasons to Visit Venice This Winter

WHERE: Finland

Public fireworks are the main event of just about every top New Year’s Eve extravaganza on this list, and Helsinki does have its own dynamic display to offer , but the Finnish fireworks situation is especially interesting on the private side. Fireworks are sold to citizens exclusively during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and can be used only from 6 pm on December 31 until 2 a.m. on January 1, making those eight hours the focus of a year’s worth of pyrotechnic planning. Don’t forget to partake in another funky Finnish tradition before the night is over: Pouring molten tin into water and having your fortune read from the resulting glob is probably the coolest way to foretell your coming year (and don’t worry—they just about never say anything bad).

Buenos Aires

Where: argentina.

New Year’s Eve is summertime in Buenos Aires , and that makes rooftop pool parties prime spots for ushering in the new year. From here, views of the fireworks are unbeatable (and so are the sunrises if you party long enough). On the ground, street parties rage in just about every neighborhood from enthusiastic local bashes in working-class neighborhoods to glitzy celebrations in more touristy areas. And, of course, the city’s infamous nightclubs are no strangers to the crushing crowds of New Year’s Eve celebrants. From major hubs across the U.S., you can reach Buenos Aires from around $1,500–2,500 this December, and five-star hotels can be found for under $200 per night.

WHERE: Thailand

As the rest of the world goes hard on New Year’s Eve, so Bangkok parties just about every night, so you won’t be surprised to hear that there’s plenty of raucous revelry to be had in the Thai capital on December 31. Before catching one of the fireworks displays at a handful of locations around the city, attend a drag show, Muay Thai boxing exhibition, or any number of special cabarets for the holiday. If you’re looking for the most Bangkok-y experience imaginable , then head to Khaosan Road and bar hop the many street-side options, or dive deeper into one of the clubs for an unforgettable start to the new year.

San Miguel de Allende

Where: mexico.

There’s no dull time to visit San Miguel de Allende, quickly topping the bucket list of many a world traveler, but holidays and festivals are when this cobblestoned city truly shines. Parades, music, and general revelry spill out from many of the narrow lanes of SMA, but the exuberant crowds in El Jardin, the city’s main square, exude an infectious spirit of celebration that shouldn’t be missed. It’s possible that no city cherishes pyrotechnics as enthusiastically as San Miguel de Allende and, once again, El Jardin is the ideal location for experiencing the chaotic and seemingly unending fireworks soaring above the famed neo-gothic Parroquia (church). Still, if the street scene isn’t for you, plenty of elegant rooftop parties provide spectacular views, but you’ll need to reserve your spot far in advance. Keep your camera ready for  mojigangas , the larger-than-life puppets parading down streets and whirling devilishly overhead.

WHERE: England

The ball may drop in New York City, but Big Ben stands in  London . Greenwich Mean Time is the standard from which all other time zones are measured and kept, so it stands to reason that Big Ben is a symbol of steadfast timekeeping and a New Year’s Eve icon. Fireworks along the Thames are so popular that London now sells tickets for attendance, and they start selling months in advance, so you’ll want to plan far ahead for an up-close look at the impressive display. Bonus: public transportation is free from 11:45 pm until 4:30 a.m., so you’ll save a few pounds after an otherwise expensive evening and won’t have to fight for a cab.

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New Orleans

Where: lousiana.

There are few North American cities more intimately tied to revelry and grand celebrations than New Orleans, home to a party-packed annual calendar capped by Mardi Gras. The French Quarter is, unsurprisingly, the heart of the most enthusiastic and public partying , but you can certainly celebrate in glam Southern style at galas citywide. If you were hoping to take part in some of Times Square’s famous celebrations but couldn’t handle the cold and chaos, New Orleans is home to the Central Time Zone concerts and telecast of Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve and is typically a far warmer NYE destination than NYC in December.

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WHERE: California

San Diego is so close to California’s southern border that it’s practically in Mexico, making it one of your best bets for a warm winter getaway in the US without having to head for Hawaii. Without the large public celebrations found in many of the other cities on our list, San Diego is also a chic choice for making your own way on New Year’s Eve, with plenty of options for attending unforgettable parties at hotels and clubs citywide. You’ll even find some all-nighters on the beach here. In late December, you’ll be able to score upscale hotel rooms from $200–$350, with plenty of cheaper or more indulgent options available, so you can totally tailor this destination and holiday to your ideal budget without trouble.

Rio de Janeiro

Where: brazil.

Carnival is the biggest bash in Brazil each year, but there’s nothing quite like New Year’s Eve in Rio, where an estimated 2 million people converge on one of the world’s most famous beaches to party all night. Getting there isn’t easy: You’ll have to wait in long lines to get on the metro, and intense traffic makes driving a non-starter, so most people start the party along the way and are fully in the spirit by the time they arrive at Copacabana Beach. It’s a tradition to wear white, and don’t be alarmed when the entire horde rushes into the ocean after midnight—they’re taking part in the tradition of jumping seven small waves and making a wish or giving thanks with each one.

WHERE: Scotland

Let’s get a couple of things straight: in Edinburgh, it’s “Hogmanay,” not “New Year’s Eve,” and the celebration takes three days, not one. Kick off the festivities with a Viking torchlight parade on December 30th, as more than 8,000 torchbearers march through the streets while tens of thousands of additional revelers follow along as fireworks light up the sky. On the big night, join the giant street party outside of Edinburgh Castle for concerts, dancing, outdoor bars, and of course, a spectacular midnight fireworks display. And, if you’re not too tired to roll out of bed early on January 1st, put on your silliest costume and march down High Street before joining in on the Loony Dook (that’s the part where  you plunge yourself   in the frigid River Forth).

Best Places to Go for New Years – 14 Incredible US Cities for NYE

Your celebratory setting of choice will set the tone for the night. Luckily, there are plenty of options to celebrate New Year in style!

Looking to jet off somewhere exciting to ring in the new year? We’re right there with you! But where to? There are so many places places to go for New Years that it can be hard to choose.

Use our handy guide to help you narrow it down. From bustling New York City to bayside San Francisco and everywhere in between, we’ve scoped out the best places to go for New Years just for you.

Whether you prefer to spend New Year Eve on the East Coast, on the West Coast, in the Midwest, or in the South, there’s a dreamy holiday destination perfect for you. If you’re asking where to spend New Years in USA, we have the answer.

Here’s the best of New Year’s Eve fireworks, parties, and countdowns across the country! Follow along as we fill you in on the best places to go for New Year’s Eve.

New York City

This globally recognized New Year’s Eve destination is hard to beat. The Times Square Ball Drop is a bucket list event, but the city is filled with even more ways to celebrate!

An incredible firework display at Central Park, stunning cityscape views across the Brooklyn Bridge , and parties galore are all offered by New York City .

If you opt to spend your evening at the Ball Drop , we recommend arriving as early as possible at Times Square unless you’re staying in one of the city’s hotels with a good view.

Pro Tip: The ball is raised to the top at 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, but most guests arrive at the free event at least by late afternoon. 

Many attractions are open on New Year’s Eve to fill the daytime hours, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art , Madame Tussauds ,  and One World Observatory .

Watch the fireworks at certain viewing spots such as:

• NYC New Year’s Eve Midnight Tour with Fireworks
• Fireworks in Prospect Park

With countless events to attend and attractions to see, the Birthplace of California is among the best US cities for New Years. . From theme parks to dancing in the Gaslamp Quarter to elegant events at local hotels, San Diego has it all. 

Visitors can head to LEGOLAND California or SeaWorld for thrills on beloved rides, as well as fantastic fireworks displays. Plan a trip to the San Diego Zoo for even more family-friendly fun . 

Prefer more adult-friendly parties? San Diego offers some over-the-top bashes so that you can ring in the new year with flair. 

Related Post: Bachelor Party Destinations: 14 Best Places for the Ultimate Party

Hotels host some of the snazziest parties around, like these:

• New Year’s Eve Masquerade Gala at the Hotel del Coronado 
• San Diego New Year’s Eve Movie on the Beach at the Hotel del Coronado
• Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve Party

Pro Tip: Bundle your hotel stay with attractions to spend the holiday in San Diego for a steal!

Take the party to the waves on the San Diego Harbor Cruise by Flagship or Spirit of San Diego Yacht Party . A nautical New Year’s Eve will be a night to remember! Before you go, c heck out our Insider’s Guide to Flagship Harbor Cruises to feel like an expert as you step aboard.

Photo Alert: Snap a picture on the ship deck with spectacular fireworks in the background to rack up all the likes!

San Francisco

The city of San Francisco takes the holidays seriously, making the City by the Bay one of the best cities to spend New Years in the US. A plethora of party cruises, downtown events, and live entertainment creates plenty of opportunities to get the party started with friends and family.  

Wave hello to the new year on a cruise! Check out the New Year’s Eve Fireworks Dinner Cruise on San Francisco Bay or Speakeasy San Francisco New Year’s Eve Cruise . Is there a better setting to celebrate the New Year than a boat with a bayside backdrop?

If you prefer to keep your feet on dry ground, head to one of the parties at a local hotel or venue: 

• New Year’s Eve – San Francisco’s Black & White Ball
• Fresh Start New Years Block Party
• M.O.A.N.Y. San Francisco

For the best fireworks display in the city, you’ll want to claim a spot overlooking the Bay. The dazzling 15-20 minute fireworks display never fails to attract large crowds, so plan to arrive early with food and games to pass the time.

Pro Tip: Note that the display is best seen along the south end of the Ferry Building , including Rincon Park . 

New Year’s Eve celebrations warm up the chilly Windy City from lakeside Navy Pier to the heart of downtown. Grab a slice of deep-dish pizza and settle in for a celebration in classic Chicago style. 

Heading to the iconic Navy Pier in the Streeterville neighborhood? Take in amazing views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan as you watch fireworks going off around the city. Better yet, attend a party on the pier, like New Year on the Pier , for unbeatable views!

Searching for some unique options in one of the best cities for New Year? We recommend heading to the zoo! Adults will want to make their way to the 21 and older party at Lincoln Park Zoo .

The New Year’s Eve event at Brookfield Zoo is perfect for the kiddos. Up for a show instead? The Blue Man Group has several showtimes on New Year’s Eve!

If you’d rather let the waves take you where they will on a cruise, here are three great Chicago cruises on New Year’s Eve:

• Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
• Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
• Premier Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River

Choreographed fireworks, world-class food, critically acclaimed shows, all-inclusive gambling hotels, and much more await guests traveling to Las Vegas Nevada for New Year’s Eve.

Notorious for its party culture, the desert city will be packed with residents (and the occasional celebrity!) dressed to the nines to celebrate New Year’s Eve. Ample opportunities for festivities give this city a spot on our list of best cities for NYE in US.

To start the year on a high, head to the SkyPod (formerly the Stratosphere Tower) at the top of the STRAT Hotel. Take in awe-inspiring 360-degree views of the city skyline while watching the spectacular Grucci fireworks display.

There’s more to do during the day, too! Here are some Las Vegas attractions to check out:

• Area 51 Tour
• Zion National Park Tour
• Vegas Balloon Rides

On the hunt for the best parties as the clock strikes midnight? Check out The Hard Rock Cafe New Year’s Eve Party , The New Year’s Eve Bridge Bash , or The Fremont Street Experience .

Los Angeles

Beautiful Los Angeles boasts many options for those celebrating New Year’s Eve in the SoCal city. While New York City on the East Coast may be the stereotypical best city for New Year’s Eve, the West Coast certainly gives it a run for its money.

Theme parks, aquariums, and parties, oh my! There’s no shortage of things to do in Los Angeles , easily making it one of the best cities for New Years Eve.

Family-friendly picks, complete with roller coaster thrills and theme park noms:

• EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood
• Aquarium of the Pacific
• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• Madame Tussauds Hollywood Wax Museum

Adult-friendly parties, complete with live bands and open bars:

• Los Angeles New Year’s Eve Party – Gatsby’s Penthouse
• San Diego New Year’s Eve Party – Pier Pressure Moonlight Cruise
• Dragonfly Hollywood New Years Eve Party

Washington D.C.

The Mid-Atlantic region celebrates New Year’s Eve on a grand scale from Alexandria, Virginia, to Baltimore, Maryland. However, you don’t have to travel outside Washington D.C . to see grand fireworks! It’s surprisingly one of the best places for New Years Eve in USA.

In fact, you can see a marvelous fireworks display over the Potomac River from the Gaylord National Hotel & Resort during the Big Night D.C. party. This six-hour party with seven dance floors features DJ and band lineups that other parties will be hard-pressed to match. 

Another fantastic option to see fireworks and the impeccable city skyline is to take a dinner cruise along the Potomac. You and yours can sail down the river, awe-struck by holiday sights and sounds!

Pro Tip: Don’t want to take a cruise but still want to see fireworks reflected on the river? The Georgetown Waterfront Park presents an array of fantastic eateries that line the river, offering live music and entertainment to help you ring in the new year. 

To fill your daytime itinerary on New Year’s Eve, there are plenty of things to do in Washington D.C. History and art buffs will be right at home one these tours:

• Smithsonian National Museum of American History Guided Tour
• DC National Gallery of Art Museum Tour
• DC at Dusk Tour

New Orleans

The city of New Orleans flaunts plenty of fun things to do for visitors on the hunt for the best place to celebrate New Years in the USA. The Big Easy even has its own version of the Times Square Ball Drop!

Shaped like a fleur-de-lis, the drop occurs in iconic Jackson Square each year during Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve production . Admission to the square is free, but you’ll want to show up early to land good spots.

To add to the fun, the event features live broadcasting, entertainment, and fireworks over the Mississippi River.

During the day, revelers in New Orleans can watch the Allstate Sugar Bowl and fellow New Year’s Eve Parade. Featuring massive floats and marching bands, the parade begins at the intersection of Elysian Fields Avenue and Decatur Street in the French Quarter .

Related Post: New Orleans Nightlife: Where to Go for a Good Time

The parade then proceeds into the Quarter and traverses past the neighborhood’s famed historical landmarks. At around 3 p.m., the parade passes the WDSU stage at the Allstate Fan Fest and ends at Canal Street.

While you’re there, fill the daytime hours with a historical Southern adventure:

• History & Haunts Carriage Tours
• Houmas House Mansion Tour
• Adventures of Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour

What’s better than confetti and toasts to usher in the new year? Adrenaline rushes! Amusement park excitement means Orlando is easily one of the best US cities for New Years Eve.

The city of Orlando’s first-rate theme parks offer plenty of opportunities for heart-racing fun on New Year’s Eve. Dreamy fireworks displays add to the thrills that make the Sunshine State a great destination to spend the holiday.

There are so many parks to choose from:

• Walt Disney World
• Universal Orlando Resort
• LEGOLAND Florida Resort
• SeaWorld Orlando  

…but wait! You don’t have to choose. Bundle tickets to multiple theme parks to save big!

Searching for more adult-friendly activities ? One of the perks of celebrating New Year’s Eve in Orlando is that the city caters to visitors of all ages.

For the adults, we suggest heading downtown or to International Drive to see the city’s best hotspots while ringing in the new year. Both upscale and casual restaurants and clubs line these areas.

More than just coffee and rain, Seattle offers New Year’s Eve fun for the entire family. There won’t be any risk of gloomy skies with fireworks shows lighting up the night! This is one of the best US cities for NYE.

For the best fireworks show, we recommend going to Seattle Center . Furthermore, Seattle Center hosts numerous parties for guests of all ages.

Festivities include a classic fireworks show, a performance by Groove Nation, and a showcase of live electronic music combined with a video production at the International Fountain . The Fountain of Light show begins at 10 p.m.

If you’re needing ways to fill the daytime hours before you make your way to your New Year’s Eve celebration of choice, we have you covered:

• Seattle Locks Cruise
• Woodinville Wine Tasting Pass
• Seattle Harbor Cruise

Photo alert: Fireworks at the Space Needle, which is part of Seattle Center, are a must for your Instagram feed!

Myrtle Beach

This dreamy seaside destination offers plenty of beachy charm to ring in the new year! If you’re looking to stay on the East Coast but want to spend the holiday somewhere a little warmer than New York City, Myrtle Beach is the East Coast New Years Eve destination for you. 

You’ll be left in wonder when you stroll through the well-lit paths of Brookgreen Gardens at the Night of a Thousand Candles . Alternatively, J immy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers dinner and a party atmosphere that will stir up plenty of excitement for the new year. 

There are lots of great ways to spend your day in Myrtle Beach, too! It happens to be the Mini-Golf Capital of the World, so don’t leave the city without making some strokes at one of these great courses:

• Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf
• Jungle Safari Mini-Golf
• Jurassic Golf Mini-Golf
• Shipwreck Island Adventure Golf  

Charming Branson boasts multiple ways to party into the new year surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks. It’s not hard to see why it is hailed as one of the best cities for New Years.

Several luxurious resorts and hotels offer flamboyant New Year’s Eve bashes to get the party started, including the Chateau on the Lake , Big Cedar Lodge , and the Hilton Branson Convention Center .

Did you know Branson is known for its award-winning shows? The plethora of stunning options makes this one of the best US cities to visit for New Year’s Eve. Catch one of these performances on New Year’s Eve:

• Hamner’s New Year’s Eve Fiesta Party
• The Clay-Goods Jambor-Eve
• Legends in Concert New Year’s Eve Show
• Grand Jubilee

Another one of the best places to spend New Year’s in USA is aboard the Showboat Branson Belle New Year’s Eve Cruise on Table Rock Lake. Additionally, t he Wonderland New Year’s Eve Party at Big Cedar Lodge is a top choice for the kiddos.

The city of Gatlinburg is a cozy ski town situated in the Great Smoky Mountains that presents the opportunity for a New Year’s Eve retreat to leave you feeling fully ready to begin a shiny new year! This makes it one of the best US cities to visit for New Years Eve.

The city’s 36th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks show takes the cake as the biggest celebration around. Snag a spot to take in the show at the base of the Space Needle. The event is free!

Pro Tip: Another great viewing location is Park River Road, but you’ll need to arrive early to get a good spot!

While you’re in this beautiful city, don’t miss out on the abundance of tourist fun it has to offer. Book your tickets with Tripster for a great deal! Here are just a few of the attractions to enjoy:

• Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway
• Outdoor Gravity Park
• Titanic Museum Attraction

Williamsburg

Quaint Williamsburg is one of the best cities for New Year’s Eve USA for history buffs and those who want a New Year’s Eve atmosphere a little more relaxing than a jam-packed party. This historical city offers ways to spend the evening that will go down in history!

One of our favorite options is Christmas Town at Busch Gardens . I t’s a magical experience that will get you in the holiday spirit.

Spend the daytime hours brushing up on your history at one of these exciting attractions that bring the past to life:

• Colonial Williamsburg
• America’s Historic Triangle Pass
• The Ghosts, Witches, and Pirates of Williamsburg Tour

Now It’s Your Turn to Choose One of These Best Place to Go for New Years!

No matter which of the best places in US for New Years Eve appeals to you most, it’s clear you won’t have any trouble finding unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebrations!

Which Cities Do You Think Are the Best New Year’s Eve Destinations?

Which is the best city for New Years Eve for you? Tell us in the comments below!

Written by Michaela Satterfield

Michaela is a journalist who views every story she writes as an adventure, leading her to explore new places and meet new people....

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The 9 Best Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the USA (2024)

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The end of the year is always a good time to set the stage for a new chapter, and what better way to welcome a new year than taking a trip to somewhere new? If you’re looking to do something different this year or simply looking for a little fun and revelry, there are tons of places to go for New Year’s in the US for festive fun.

The best New Year’s Eve destinations in the USA are sure to ring in the new year in style. From epic fireworks displays and massive parades to free concerts and quirky ball drops, it’s easy to get swept up in the holiday spirit, no matter where you celebrate.

Whether you want to chase the Northern Lights in Alaska while chugging through snow-covered mountains on a train or throw beads from a balcony on New Orleans’ Bourbon Street while sipping champagne, you’re sure to find a memorable place to ring in the new year with the ones you love.

With so many diverse New Year’s Eve destinations in the USA, you might not know where to begin. So, we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best places to go for New Year’s in the US for you. Take a trip to one of these fun and unique cities, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time ringing in the new year!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 9 Best Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the USA

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 9 Best New Year’s Eve Destinations in the USA

1. new orleans.

New Orleans is always a good time, but this is especially true on New Year’s Eve. If you’d like to join in on the party, head over to the iconic Dick Clark Rockin’ New Year’s Eve production near JAX Brewery to see the fleur-de-lis drop or join the revelers in Jackson Square and watch the fireworks explode over the Mississippi River.

If this is your first time in New Orleans and you want a rowdy Mardi Gras-style experience, snag some Balcony Tickets so you can sip champagne while throwing beads from a balcony on Bourbon Street!  

Of course, you can always keep things intimate with a prix fixe gourmet meal at one of New Orleans’ best restaurants , followed by a champagne toast as the clock strikes midnight.  

2. Key West

If you’re looking for warm places to go for New Year’s in the US, why not make your way south to Key West ? You can spend your days diving or snorkeling before going bar hopping on the always bustling Duval Street on New Year’s Eve and witnessing one of the city’s quirky ball drops. 

See the annual conch shell drop at Sloppy Joe’s Bar , groove to live music and watch the huge key lime wedge drop at Sunset Pier , or tap into your inner pirate and take part in the annual lowering of the Pirate Wench from the mast of a schooner at Schooner Wharf Bar , to name a few!

3. New York City

If you’ve always dreamed of spending New Year’s Eve in New York City , you might want to think twice about heading to cold and crowded Times Square. New York City hosts all sorts of cool annual New Year’s celebrations that will be far more fun and unique!

For an epic fireworks show, you can book a Brooklyn Bridge walking tour to get coveted views of the fireworks exploding above the Manhattan skyline. Not into tours? Head over to Prospect Park over in Brooklyn for fireworks, live music, and plenty of fun. 

For something totally different, join in on the New York Runners’ four-mile Midnight Run through Central Park or bike your way from midtown to the Lower East Side on the New Year’s Eve Ride .

From epic concerts and groovy DJ sets to posh rooftop parties and themed dance parties, there’s a reason NYC is one of the best New Year’s Eve destinations in the USA!

6. Nashville

When it comes to the best cities for New Year’s, Nashville is a top contender. At any time of year, this Southern gem is a great place to let loose stomping your boots down the Honky Tonk Highway, stuffing your face with Nashville hot chicken and biscuits, and taking in skyline views from a paddlewheel riverboat.

But head to Nashville for New Year’s, and you’ll have the chance to join in on the revelry and dance to live music at Jack Daniel’s New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. This free event has live music, fireworks, plenty of confetti, and the city’s famous Music Note Drop when the clock strikes midnight. 

This is Nashville, so there are plenty of parties and concerts happening all over town, too. But if you want to get into the cowboy spirit, don your best boots, fringe, and cowboy hat and head over to Acme’s Disco Rodeo New Year’s Eve Party for craft cocktails and a confetti countdown.

7. Fairbanks

If you’re looking for totally unique places to go for New Year’s in the US and you’re looking for some adventure, hop on board the Aurora Winter Train in Fairbanks, Alaska.

You’ll depart from Anchorage on December 31 and chug your way through the backcountry, making the 12-hour journey to Fairbanks, where you’ll ring in the new year with a confetti-filled countdown in downtown Fairbanks. On this journey, you’ll get unreal views of the snow-covered landscape, and if you’re lucky, you’ll have the chance to spot the Northern Lights and a moose or two!

If you’d like to go all out, you have the option of adding on a flightseeing tour or a dogsledding excursion. There’s also a New Year’s Eve Dinner Train, where you can sip champagne and enjoy a special meal.

It may come as a surprise, but Boise is one of the most fun New Year’s Eve destinations in the USA if you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path. Each year, locals ring in the new year with the city’s iconic Potato Drop (yes, it’s an illuminated 17-foot potato!) at Cecil D. Andrus Park in front of the beautiful Idaho State Capitol building.

This free event also features live music and entertainment, a snow park with tubing and other snow-filled fun, a fireworks show, plenty of food and drinks, and so much more!

9. Bethlehem 

Another one of the best (and quirkiest!) places to go for New Year’s in the US is the Bethlehem PEEPSFEST in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This two-day festival is filled with all sorts of festive, family-friendly fun, from live music to fireworks. But the real reason to ring in the new year here is for the PEEPS Chick Drop, which sees an illuminated 400-pound PEEPS Chick descend during the countdown! 

There you have it! Our picks for the 9 best places to go for New Year’s in the US. Where will you spend New Year’s Eve this year?

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

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About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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Ring in 2024 in the world’s best New Year’s Eve destinations

Nov 27, 2023 • 7 min read

New Year is a big celebration in Rio de Janeiro © Z Martinusso / Getty Images

Ringing in the new year is a tradition worldwide, with every country putting their own spin on the festivities. If hopping on a flight to somewhere new and exciting is how you want to herald in the new year, these 10 cities pull out all the stops and then some.

Whether it’s a party on the beach, fireworks over the Colosseum, a cruise around Sydney Harbour, or an evening at Disney, there’s something for everyone. 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 

With warm, sunny weather, panoramic views and a seductive samba beat, New Year’s Eve in Rio de Janeiro is life-affirming. Festivities here are (almost) on par with the city’s famous Carnival, and the ultimate celebration – one of the best in the world – is at Copacabana Beach , where an estimated two million revelers congregate each year for music, swimming, football, barbecues and a massive fireworks display. Smaller, just-as-lively beaches such as Ipanema and Flamengo are also worth considering. The restaurants along Copacabana fill up quickly, so early booking is essential if you want to schedule dinner. Try Rio institution Bip Bip for live music, and local favorite Pavão Azul for the octopus rice and batida de coco , a cocktail made from coconut cream, condensed milk and cachaça (a spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice).

Rome, Italy

Ringing in the new year in Rome is all about lavish fireworks displays against the backdrop of some of the most spectacular buildings in the world. Make your way toward the Circus Maximus for La Festa di Roma, a free all-day affair of entertainment, activities and events for all ages. Around 10pm stake your claim for a prime viewing spot as you ring in the new year watching the Colosseum sparkle under a sky of exploding colorful fireworks. For a low-key New Year's celebration, join the locals at Trastevere for a festive dinner and general celebratory mood no matter where you go. If you want to keep the party going on January 1, join the New Year’s Day parade at the Piazza del Popolo . 

New York City, USA 

With its famous glittering Ball Drop, Times Square offers one of the most iconic NYE gatherings in the world. Crowds start queuing in the cold ⁠— usually at noon ⁠— on December 31 as they await live performances and a midnight rendition of “New York, New York.” But this isn’t the only NYE party destination in New York . A river cruise, like Gatsby’s Fireworks Yacht Party , always provides a festive vibe, not to mention views of the fireworks as they ignite against the Midtown skyline. New York rooftop bars are also great locations at which to party. Magic Hour is the city’s largest indoor/outdoor rooftop and features  Empire State Building views. If you want to stay away from the Manhattan madness, join a walking tour across the Brooklyn Bridge to see the city skyline twinkle and perhaps catch some fireworks at midnight if you linger long enough.

Tokyo, Japan 

The hottest New Year’s ticket in Tokyo is for Countdown Japan , a four-day long music festival that runs into New Year’s Day. However it’s also the hardest ticket to get, and after two rounds of a lottery it’s already sold out. But Tokyo has plenty of other ways to ring in the new year including Tokyo Disney ’s countdown event. This is one of the only times during the year where you can experience the park offerings well after midnight and dine on foods prepared especially for New Year. If you’re looking for a low-key alternative to the big parties, check out one of the city’s temples for the ritual of the ringing of the bell. At midnight, a monk rings the temple bell 108 times, correlating to the number of worldly desires recognized by Japanese Buddhism, and purifying participants. The ancient temple of Zōjō-ji , which dates to 1393, draws both locals and tourists for the hatsumōde , a pilgrimage to visit the first shrine of the new year. If you’d prefer more of a party atmosphere, Yokohoma across Tokyo Bay offers laser and light shows and countdown cruises around the bay. The Roppongi area is another NYE hotspot, with plenty of countdown events and all the tunes. 

Cape Town, South Africa 

Cape Town is just coming into summer on New Year’s Eve, which makes for an ideal time to visit. Your NYE options are exciting indeed in this spectacularly beautiful destination. Immerse yourself in South African music, sports, and food at the three-day Get Lucky Summer festival, which runs from December 30 until January 1. For a completely unique experience, go immersive with Alcazar’ s NYE party, a feast for the eyes and ears with performance art and a music extravaganza that will have you partying until 4am. You can also take a cruise around the harbor to see the last sunset of 2023. If you want a perfect viewpoint for the fireworks, pack a picnic and take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain . 

Sydney, Australia

All eyes are on Sydney for New Year’s Eve. Within the city, numerous vantage points for the iconic harbor fireworks welcome visitors all day on December 31; check online to see what time they’re likely to fill up (most close when capacity is reached in the early afternoon), and whether you can drink alcohol. Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden is a fabulous (and free) venue at which to celebrate the new year, as is Sydney Harbour National Park , with a choice of parties on three islands or parks on either side of the water. A very glamorous option is the House of Splendour party at Sydney Opera House (tickets start at a whopping AUS$950) or an NYE boat party on the harbor. There are also family-friendly events like obstacle courses, music, face painting and more at The Greens North City . 

Bangkok, Thailand

Another city renowned for its high-octane nightlife, the Thai capital doesn’t disappoint on December 31. The CentralWorld Plaza is the focus for much of the revelry, with a beer garden and live entertainment; the open-air night market Asiatique is another popular NYE destination, with restaurants offering special menus for the evening. There are lots of wildly impressive rooftop bars and restaurants to choose from in Bangkok – and you can certainly reach for the stars at the Lebua hotel at State Tower, with its four altitude-defying restaurants and bars, including the world’s (supposedly) highest outdoor bar . If you’re looking for a romantic evening, take a river cruise and feast on Thai food, music and fireworks.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai certainly knows how to throw a party. The fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa is so bright that it can be seen across the entire UAE . In town, there are numerous locations from which to enjoy them, including the breathtaking Kite Beach , where you can bring a picnic. Glamorous galas and gourmet soirees abound, such as at one at the opulent Atlantis , featuring free-flowing champagne, Michelin-starred cooking stations, and a massive fireworks display. The highly anticipated party at Zero Gravity features a daytime pool party until sunset and an evening lineup of international DJs that will have you dancing into 2024.

Québec City, Canada

Temperatures average 16°F (-9°C) in Québec City in winter, but this charming town warms up on New Year’s Eve thanks to heated terraces and outdoor fireplaces. (Sipping on a caribou cocktail – a combination of red wine, hard liquor and maple syrup – can also help.) The main NYE party is at Grande Allée, with a winter village, live bands, dancing in the streets, Ferris wheels and fireworks, and Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale is where you’ll find musical performances. Sample some of Québec ’s famous cuisine at Auberge Saint-Antoine ’s Chez Muffy restaurant, which showcases regional produce. But before that, work up an appetite by tobogganing at the famous Terrasse Dufferin or by skating under the stars on the ice rink at Place d’Youville . 

Las Vegas, USA

The Las Vegas Strip becomes party central on New Year’s Eve, when it closes to traffic starting at 8pm and visitors take to the streets for the world’s biggest block party. The fireworks display is choreographed from seven different casino roofs, lighting up the Nevada sky. North of the Strip, the Freemont St party downtown is always worth catching, with pyrotechnics, bands and a music stage with aerialists and dancers. This year you can rock out at shows from Bruno Mars at Park MGM , Adele at Caesars Palace and Demi Lovato at The Cosmopolitan . Another great way to see in 2023 is to book a pod on the High Roller , the world’s tallest observation wheel, which offers impressive views of Sin City.

This article was first published Oct 29, 2019 and updated Nov 27, 2023.

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The best places to go for New Years

By Laura Chubb , Anna Prendergast and Cassie Doney

It’s easy to sneer at New Year’s Eve: too expensive, too crowded, too much pressure to have the greatest night of your life. OK, you could hunker down at home – or you could make it really memorable by hitting up one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the world. From fireworks blasting across breathtaking backdrops to raucous street parties in cool capitals and all-night raves on blissed-out beaches, there’s no shortage of amazing places to go for New Years. If you're set to be closer to home, see our guide on how to spend New Year's Eve in London .

Budapest, Hungary

The main event: There are no ‘official’ fireworks displays in the Hungarian capital, and New Year’s Eve in Budapest is a low-key affair compared to many other European cities. Fireworks displays illuminate the sky thanks to many different organisers, but much of the fun occurs in the squares and historic streets.

The local view: Vorosmarty Square is the central hub of activity on New Year’s Eve. Locals and tourists stand side-by-side, waiting for the twelve clock chimes to ring in another year. The holiday is a food-fuel affair, so secure a table in a restaurant with a view and prepare to be as noisy as midnight approaches – firecrackers and raised voices ward off unfriendly spirits.

Where to stay: Matild Palace is a relatively new addition to Budapest’s hotel scene, one of a matching pair of neo-baroque fin de siècle, UNESCO-protected palaces. It houses the first Spago restaurant by Wolfgang Puck in Europe, a rooftop bar with panoramic views, and an art nouveau café that hosts seasonal cabaret shows and lip-smackingly-good brunches. Connor Sturges

Val d'Isère, France

The main event: Val d'Isère is one of France’s premier ski destinations , so it’s no surprise that travellers with pennies to spare head here to ring in the New Year. Festive lights and sculptures illuminate the streets, and the highlight of the evening for visitors with a view is the spectacular midnight fireworks display.

The local view: Val d'Isère is a seasonal party playground for avid skiers (and après-skiers) – expect myriad nationalities and personalities rubbing shoulders. Eyes turn to the skies at midnight as pyrotechnics illuminate the night sky, while the bars, clubs, and restaurants are bustling hubs of activity. For foodies, there’s the Michelin-starred La Table de l'Ours or cosy Bistrot Gourmand; elsewhere, Champagne-spraying starts early at famous spots such as La Folie Douce.

Where to stay: Airelles Val d'Isère is one of the ski resort’s most opulent hotels. Rooms and suites are snuggly hideouts with views out onto the white expanses – warm up before heading to Nobu Matsuhisa restaurant for black cod miso and cocktails. Brand new for the 2023/24 season is four-bedroom Chalet Schuss, a private mountain retreat designed by celebrated interior designer Christophe Tollemer. Connor Sturges

Paris, France

The main event: If you’ve got someone special to share a midnight kiss with, there’s no better place to spend New Year’s Eve than the city of romance. The centre of the action is undoubtedly the firework display on Champs-Élysées. Still, if you’re hoping to soak up the atmosphere without being packed shoulder-to-shoulder, the street parties in hilly Sacré-Cœur offer a cinematic – and slightly calmer – view over the festivities. Avoid disappointment and skip the Eiffel Tower entirely; fireworks are only set off here on Bastille Day, and you can see it lit up any night of the year with slightly fewer crowds to battle.

Local view: Traditionally, the French mark New Year’s Eve with a supper known as le réveillon – usually an indulgent feast of delicacies such as oysters, caviar, escargot and foie gras. Michelin-starred restaurant La Tour d’Argent does a set menu of exceptional dishes (and even more exceptional views over the city), though you may need to start saving in January to afford it. For a more budget-friendly option, the roof terrace of cool club Wanderlust is the ideal restaurant in Paris to watch the fireworks over the Seine.

Where to stay: Start the year off with a flourish in the palatial Le Meurice , a creative haven that’s housed both Dali and Picasso, with interiors by designer Philippe Starck. Or check into one Paris' beautiful Airbnbs , scoping out the best street-side cafés for your hangover espresso. For more options, see our pick of the best Paris hotels .

Edinburgh, Scotland

The main event: The Scottish capital’s famed three-day Hogmanay extravaganza usually kicks off on 30 December, with a Viking-style torchlight procession along the Royal Mile. The big night itself features a Scottish music programme including Dougie McLean, Eddi Reader and Breabach, which wraps in time for gig-goers to catch unequalled views of midnight fireworks over Edinburgh Castle. Celebrations continue on New Year’s Day with the traditional fancy-dress dip in the freezing Firth of Forth (known as ‘the Loony Dook’). For more information on the many events that normally take place, visit edinburghshogmanay.com .

The local view: You probably won’t spot many Edinburgh natives at official Hogmanay festivities for one, entirely rational, reason: they know to be sceptical about the weather. Instead, find the Scots hedging their bets with indoor jollities before bagging a free spot to watch the castle’s midnight display. Smart, boho Stockbridge has a wealth of great pubs: stop off for a wee dram or two and folk music at basement joint The Bailie Bar , followed by a trip to Inverleith Park, which offers the best free view of the countdown fireworks in the city.

Where to stay: The Balmoral is the grandest hotel in Edinburgh , and the most comfortable place to recover from Hogmanay celebrations. For something more affordable but no less down to earth, Eden Locke , in a New Town Georgian townhouse, offers a perfect storm of millennial pink and Elephant’s Breath, brass detailing, wicker chairs and tropical plants. For a private stay, takeover this grand yet cosy loft Airbnb with a spectacular location that overlooks the Royal Mile.

Reykjavik, Iceland 

The main event: The Icelandic capital’s midnight fireworks are a community effort: everyone buys their own from ICE-SAR, the national search-and-rescue unit, in what is its most lucrative fundraising project of the year. The result: when the clock strikes 12, the sky explodes with hundreds of mini firework displays, lighting up the entire city. It’s a spectacular sight, but listen out for the sounds, too: fire engines and ships docked in the harbour all ring their bells and blow their horns to welcome the New Year.

The local view: Revelries ramp up long before the countdown, with community bonfires all over town from 4pm (a bonus of those long winter nights). A large crowd of locals gathers at landmark Hallgrímskirkja Church to launch fireworks and watch the display at midnight – offering a great vantage from its perch on Skólavörðuholt hill.

Where to stay: Reykjavik Edition is one of the smartest hotels in Iceland right now, with its rooftop terrace for viewing the northern lights, a cushy speakeasy-style bar and rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the fjord and Mt. Esja or downtown Reykjavik.

New York City, USA

The main event: Sure, Times Square isn’t the most original recommendation, but it is the archetypal NYE in NYC . If you’re going to do it, do it from the Renaissance Hotel ’s R Lounge – the bar windows offer peerless views of the famous One Times Square building due south, where the ball drops.

The local view: Make like a real New Yorker and swap Manhattan for Brooklyn. There are free fireworks and live music at Prospect Park , and Brooklyn Bridge is a spectacular spot to take in the sky-side show.

Where to stay: As one of the newest hotels in New York and Aman's first urban outpost in the US, Aman New York has raised the bar for Midtown – all rooms are generous in size, well sound-proofed and have working fireplaces. Also in Midtown, Pendry Manhattan West embraces a relaxed West Coast vibe and has floor-to-ceiling windows in all of its 30 sprawling suites.

Lisbon, Portugal

The main event: The big blowout in Europe’s new capital of cool is at Praça do Comércio, the main square right on the Tagus River. In typically Portuguese fashion, the fiesta runs late: live music starts up at around 10pm and continues after the midnight fireworks. Plenty of locals – armed with their own fizz and plastic cups – can be found drinking and dancing in the heart of the action, so it doesn’t feel like a tourist trap.

The local view: Lisbon ’s central Bairro Alto district is always a party locale – thank the lax open-container laws – and NYE here is no exception. Partygoers often head here after the Praça do Comércio fireworks, and the neighbourhood is also home to some outstanding fado houses, where you can watch traditional Portuguese music with dinner. Popular spots include O Faia and Cafe Luso – but they’re not cheap.

Where to stay: The Lumiares is perfectly placed in Bairro Alto with a maze of bars and nightlife nearby. Once the revelry is over, the hotel is designed to feel like a home away from home – the self-contained studios come with fully-equipped kitchens. Nearby, Bairro Alto Hotel is beloved for its buzzing atmosphere and quality soundproofing. See our guide to the best Lisbon hotels for more.

Koh Phangan, Thailand

The main event: There are parties on the beaches of Thailand’s islands all year round, but the wildest of them all is New Year’s Eve on Koh Phangan, home to the world’s most famous full-moon party. Revolving around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin, the maelstrom starts as soon as it gets dark and romps on well beyond sunrise and into the following afternoon.

The local view: Go for cocktails and a dinner of freshly caught and grilled fish over on the sunset side of the island, and don’t even think of joining the party until just before midnight. Then head back to Sunset Beach for a dawn swim.

Where to stay: The stylish Anantara resort is halfway up the east coast of Koh Phangan, some distance from the party, but the journey home, on a boat through turquoise waters as the sun is coming up, might possibly be the greatest taxi ride you’ve ever taken.

Kimberly Grant

Olivia Morelli

Connor Sturges

Venice, Italy

The main event: Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s crowded. But something is enchanting about Venice at New Year’s Eve, all the same, the anticipatory thrill of counting down to midnight in the packed St Marco’s Square more than worth the wait. (And there’ll be a wait – get here at least a few hours in advance if you want a good spot to see the fireworks).

The local view: One of the best views of Venice’s fireworks isn’t actually on the main island; catch the Vaporetto (water bus) over to Giudecca and watch the show from across the lagoon. There are several Italian New Year’s Eve traditions you can join in with. It’s good luck to be wearing red underwear as the year turns over, while lentils, also believed to bring good luck, are an essential part of any New Year’s Eve dinner. Plus, try out more modern practices, such as the chilly New Year’s Day swim in the Lido.

Where to stay: Of all of the hotels in Venice , the most sought-after view is from the garden at The St Regis , which overlooks the Grand Canal. For a party atmosphere, Il Palazzo Experimental hosts one of the best aperitivo hours in town.

Barcelona, Spain

The main event: Barcelona is a city of night owls, so the revelry doesn’t really start gearing up until about 11pm. That’s when crowds gather at Plaça d’Espanya to watch the midnight pyrotechnics on Montjuïc, the hill just above. A few yards from here, Poble Espanyol , the open-air architectural museum, hosts a huge dance party until 6am.

The local view: One of the stranger traditions – other than eating a grape for each chime at midnight (seriously, everyone does it) – takes place at Plaça de Catalunya, in the city centre. As soon as the new year has been rung in, the assembled thousands throw their Cava bottles into the middle of the square. If that sounds slightly frightening, head instead for the most popular club bashes: Pacha rages all night.

Where to stay: Check in to The Hoxton, Pobelnou , a beloved local hangout with a rooftop pool and taqueria. For an unbeatable location, ME Barcelona is a short stroll from the city's central square, Plaça de Catalunya.

Cape Town, South Africa

The main event: The mother of all celebrations in the Mother City usually takes place on the V&A Waterfront, where there’s everything you could possibly require in one handy spot: dinner, live music, dancing, fireworks. Plus, there are views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic shore. It’s spectacular – but if you want a party with a more local flavour, you have to head for the sand.

The local view: A sunset picnic on Clifton 4th Beach, a gorgeous cove in the affluent Clifton neighbourhood, is a popular choice for Capetonians. Then it’s time to hit one of the city’s many glam beach clubs . The hottest ticket? Pacha’s elite soirée at Grand Africa , on the Grand’s private beach, facing Robben Island.

Where to stay: Sitting atop the V&A Waterfront’s much-feted Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, The Silo is the very definition of a destination hotel. Rooms are a happy marriage of vibrant silks and velvets in deep purple and bottle green, while the ballroom-worthy bathrooms are lit by Egyptian-crystal chandeliers. See our edit of the best hotels in Cape Town for more options.

Berlin, Germany

The main event: Berlin’s anything-goes energy is well and truly buzzing at this massive open-air party between the Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column. One of Europe’s largest outdoor celebrations, this jamboree sees around a million people gathering along the event’s 1.6-mile stretch. Better still, it’s free of charge and keeps pumping until 3am. Expect live music, DJs, laser shows, food and, of course, fireworks.

The local view: Berlin ’s not short of world-class clubs, but the rooftop garden at House of Weekend comes into its own on New Year’s Eve, offering astonishing views of the pyrotechnics and the city’s skyline. Plus, you don’t have to worry about that infamous Berghain bouncer.

Where to stay: For a stay close to the nightlife along the banks of the Spree, AMANO East Side sits in the vibrant, edgy Friedrichshain neighbourhood. The ground level's bar is a lively spot to kick the night off, while rooms here are like sexy little hideaways. For more recommendations, see our edit of the best hotels in Berlin .

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The main event: Conveniently compact and always-down-to-party, Amsterdam is an amalgam of impromptu street frolics on 31 December, but if there’s one reliable place to be at midnight, it’s the Magere Brug (‘Skinny Bridge’). Here, merrymakers gather to watch countdown fireworks bursting over the River Amstel, then continue their festivities all across town. Nieuwmarkt (Chinatown), in particular, is known for its rambunctious atmosphere.

The local view: Amsterdam’s EDM heads usually go to the Awakenings party at the Gashouder, an epic rave in an industrial gas holder built in 1902.

Where to stay: There are plenty of smart addresses here – The Hoxton , Soho House , Pulitzer . For a unique stay, Sweets Hotel has a one-of-a-kind location within a bridge house once used by operators to open and close the drawbridges. Naturally, the views of the canals are the standout, while interiors pick up on the period. For more, see our picks of the best hotels in Amsterdam .

Sydney, Australia

The main event: Sydney Harbour’s firework extravaganza is usually watched by more than a million people gathered along the foreshore. To get amongst it, join the boatfuls of revellers bobbing in the water by hiring out a boat, bring your own bubbles and start the countdown early. Landlubbers might prefer to reserve an outside table at one of the waterfront restaurants by Sydney Harbour Bridge for a front-row seat.

The local view: Alternatively, motor out to Cockatoo Island and set up a moonlit picnic in preparation for the show; you can even camp or glamp there for the night, as long as you book a spot in advance. New Year’s Eve without the end-of-night battle for a taxi? Yes, please.

Where to stay: All about the pyrotechnics? The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney overlooks Sydney Harbour, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. For a more local feel, book the new Paramount House Hotel in inner-city foodie hub Surry Hills. An industrial concrete-and-copper aesthetic meets furniture, bathroom products – and beer – by independent Aussie makers.

Beirut, Lebanon

The main event: Beirut ’s legendary party scene makes for a memorable outing any night of the year, but in 2017/2018 the city elected to put on an official shindig in its streets, and immediately landed on various ‘best of’ lists – prompting it to go even bigger in the following years. Place de l’Etoile is packed with merrymakers, as live bands, DJs and fireworks ring in the next decade, and a spectacular light show beams out of the square’s 1933 Art Deco clocktower. This being Beirut, things don’t typically wind down until after dawn.

The local view: The city’s nightlife scene has more than its fair share of bling-bling clubs, but to get among the Beiruti in-crowd, bar hopping in hip Gemmayzeh and neighbouring Mar Mikhael is where it’s at. The latter’s Anise is a firm favourite, where craft cocktails are concocted with Lebanese spirit arak and locally foraged herbs.

Where to stay: The Albergo – by Relais & Châteaux – is steeped in old-world charm, from its antique-furnished rooms to the orange juice in a Murano glass jug and macarons brought to your room when you arrive.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The main event: When the clock strikes 12, the ordinarily restrained Danes gather at Town Hall Square for a rowdy, BYO bacchanal of popping champagne corks, whooshing rockets and fizzing Roman candles. For a slightly more orderly take, twinkly Tivoli Gardens lights up the sky with its own Firework Festival; its restaurants serve New Year’s dinners; and the roller coasters are open – plus, plenty of glögg stalls serve liquid courage.

The local view: Watch how Copenhageners abandon hygge for hedonism on New Year’s Eve as thousands of merry folk take to the streets to light their own fireworks just after midnight. A favoured local spot to watch the mayhem – which is loud, raucous and just a tad nerve-wracking – is Queen Louise’s Bridge, which stretches across The Lakes, in the heart of the city.

Where to stay: Hotel Sanders , on a quiet street just a short walk from ever-lively Nyhavn, is enchanting. Style-wise, it combines Danish mid-century modern and British Colonial (wickerwork here and there, palms in pots), and there’s a fifth-floor conservatory with views over the city.

New Orleans, USA

The main event: Missed out on Mardi Gras? These New Year’s Eve celebrations capture the same riotous spirit, glittering extravagance, and explosive sense of fun that makes New Orleans so special. The city was, rightfully so, one of our top destinations to visit in 2022 , and will still be right up until the stroke of midnight on 31 December. Spend the afternoon at the Allstate Sugar Bowl Parade, which is as festive and festooned as you’d expect, before heading down to Jackson Square to watch the Fleur De Lis drop (the city’s answer to NYC’s ball drop) and the fireworks over the Mississippi.

The local view: Combine two long-standing New Orleans traditions – jazz bands and balcony parties – with a trip to the French Quarter. Bag a ticket to one of the exclusive events held in Bourbon Street’s bars and restaurants and spend the night dining, drinking and dancing high above the crowds.

Where to stay: The city is groaning with quirky hotels and Airbnbs; for one-of-a-kind rooms and colourful decor right by the French Quarter, make a reservation at The Eliza Jane . If your New Year’s Day hangover demands a little peace and quiet, hole up in one of the private Audubon Cottages , where a butler will deliver breakfast to your door.

The main event: Some say Goa ’s parties are not what they used to be. We say it’s still hard to beat dancing on the beach , with the sand between your toes and fairy lights strung on every palm tree, sequinned sari skirts twirling under the stars. And New Year’s Eve is the best time of year to party in Goa, with fireworks and celebrations all along the coast of India’s good-time state. Inevitably, the biggest and loudest bashes tend to be centred around Anjuna, where world-class DJs play to huge crowds long into the night.

The local view: For a more intimate party, head to Palolem, in the south. This jungle-lined bay is dotted with ramshackle beach bars that join up for a night of psy-trance tunes and EDM, free-flowing cocktails and fireworks at midnight.

Where to stay: On the beach in Candolim, not far from Anjuna, Park Inn is an all-white, contemporary pad with 30 bedrooms, cabanas on the poolside deck, a private beach and DJs playing Balearic beats (welcome news for anyone not a fan of Goa trance) in the open-air bar.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The main event: It’s practically midsummer in Rio de Janeiro this time of year, which is why many partygoers shun sweaty indoor clubs and take the party to the beach instead. A whopping two million people gather on the 2.5-mile-long Copacabana for samba, Champagne and fireworks on New Year’s Eve – to find a good spot, start staking your place from 10pm. It’s customary to wear white in Rio on NYE – said to bring luck for the New Year. But perhaps leave your favourite clothes at home, unless you don’t mind getting doused with Champagne, sprayed F1-style by rapturous crowds.

The local view: Lifeguard stations along the beach are called ‘postos’; in-the-know types recommend setting up between Postos 5 and 6. This is the final stretch of Copacabana, so it’s not quite as crowded; plus, it’s walking distance from the parties at neighbouring Ipanema, where many revellers head after the countdown fireworks.

Where to stay: To go all out, Belmond Copacabana Palace has exclusive views of the action (and a price tag to match). For something more affordable but with similarly breathtaking views, the Mama Ruisa hotel is a lovely guesthouse with a vintage, homely feel.

The 15 Best Places to Spend New Year's Eve

Whether you opt for a far-flung celebration or one closer to home, here are 15 T&C-approved destinations.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

2021 was not quite the return to normal that we were looking forward to, so here's hoping for a brighter year in 2022. Still, most of the world is open to vaccinated travelers from the United States, so for Americans who feel safe traveling, the options for a holiday adventure run the gamut.

Here, T&C rounds up some of the most ideal places to ring in the new year—and the things to do while you're there—whether you'll be spending it closer to home in New York City or New England, or somewhere farther afield like Rome or The Maldives. As with all travel these days, be sure to check for the most up-to-date requirements and restrictions for your destination before you go.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

If you're still not ready to make that ski trip to Grenoble this year, Ocean House —Rhode Island's grandest dame hotel—has come up with a cure for any French Alps FOMO. Its Gondola Village is a culinary experience in which Alpine culinary staples like brie cheese flambé and boeuf bourguignon are served with Veuve Clicquot champagne pairings, in vintage gondolas that have been redesigned as cozy private dining nooks with chandeliers, warm Alpine details, and winter-perfect textiles. Even the Le Creuset dinnerware is imported from France for a fully authentic experience that'll make you feel like you did make it to Europe this winter after all. Kicking off December 4, the Gondola Village is open for lunch, dinner, and "après-ski" pre-dinner seatings.

Fully vaccinated revelers will be welcome once again in Times Square this year , but there are plenty of other places to ring in the new year in the city. The McKittrick Hotel, for instance, is hosting its grand reopening on New Year's Eve before its acclaimed show Sleep No More returns in February 2022. The New Year’s Eve celebration will feature dancing, an open bar, and live performances throughout the night. While the Sleep No More venue has "hotel" in its name, you can't actually sleep there. For some of the best overnight accommodations in Manhattan, head to The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel. The Upper East Side institution recently reopened its restaurant as Downing's at The Carlyle ( above ), with Chef Sylvain Delpique (formerly of the 21 Club) in the kitchen. Both the restaurant and Bemelmans Bar are offering their own New Year’s Eve celebrations too.

Read Reviews The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel

British Virgin Islands

Travelers who want to celebrate New Year's Eve in a beautiful setting without any crowds should consider a yacht charter with The Moorings in the British Virgin Islands. With no set itinerary, couples, friends, and families can work with their captain and crew to plan a celebration they will never forget in one of the world's most beautiful destinations. For those who prefer a land-based island experience, Moskito Island —Richard Branson's newest private island in the BVIs—is offering guests a customized New Year's Eve extravaganza with firework shows and private chef-prepared meals on the beach.

Read Reviews The Moorings

Book Now Moskito Island

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport's historic hotel The Chanler at Cliff Walk is throwing a mansion party open exclusively to hotel guests. Expect the New Year's Eve gala —which takes its Gilded Age glamour cues from Mrs. Astor's legendary parties—to include a decadent meal at the fine dining restaurant, Cara, followed by free-flowing champagne and all-night dancing.

Read Reviews The Chanler at Cliff Walk

Budapest, Hungary

Why choose one country for the holidays when you can visit four? For those comfortable with taking a cruise, Uniworld—which requires all guests to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19—is offering an 11-day itinerary along the Danube that includes stops in Vienna and Budapest, among other ports of call between Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Spend Christmas Day in Salzburg and ring in New Year's Eve in the Hungarian capital before catching a return flight to the United States.

Read Reviews Uniworld M.S. Maria Theresa

St. Bart's is roaring back to action with boat parties, live performances, and fireworks displays planned throughout the month of December. The Christian Liaigre-designed Le Sereno features private villa accommodations along with a secluded location on the Grand Cul de Sac while also offering easy access to all of the action. The hotel recently introduced its Suites Piscine, which offer ideal accommodations for small groups traveling together.

Read Reviews Le Sereno

Texas Hill Country

With just 32 accommodations and 13,000 acres of land, JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Texas, is the perfect winter escape for end-of-year R&R and social distancing. For an even more remote and private stay, book the luxurious Archer's Nest Villa, a six-bedroom ranch house with a gourmet kitchen, BBQ pavilion, swimming pool, and home theater. Along with the many activities offered at the resort, from hiking and horseback riding to skeet shooting and archery, JL Bar Ranch is also equipped with a private airport. Prefer to drive? It's a two-hour ride from San Antonio, a three-hour trip from Austin, and five hours from Dallas.

Read Reviews JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

Water Mill, New York

Escape to the Hamptons for a most serene way to ring in 2022 at Shou Sugi Ban House , the 13-key wellness retreat (a first of its kind in the region) that opened with much fanfare last year. Swap the usual NYE debauchery for sunset nature walks, a culinary program helmed by Noma co-founder Mads Refslund, and cozying up by the fireplace (there is one in each room). And, of course, there is the spa—because let's face it, what you'll really need after the past couple of years is a vigorous deep-tissue massage.

Read Reviews Shou Sugi Ban House

The Maldives

If you don't mind a bit of journey, the private island resorts of Soneva Fushi on the Baa Atoll and its newer all-overwater villa sister resort Soneva Jani on the Noonu Atoll are offering guests the opportunity to ring in the new year with a culinary journey inspired by the seven continents. The evening will include dancers, opera singers, and a dazzling light show followed by a live band and DJ spinning into the early hours.

Read Reviews Soneva Fushi

Read Reviews Soneva Jani

Rome, Italy

Hotel Hassler Roma , the famous hotel atop the Spanish Steps, is offering guests the ultimate "Roman holiday" experience: a three-night stay, airport transfers, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, afternoon tea for two, and a New Year’s Eve Gala dinner for two at either the hotel's Michelin-starred penthouse restaurant Imàgo or Salone Eva, followed by dancing in the Salone Medici. Prices for the three-night package range from €3,432 to €4,692, depending on the room type and gala dinner choice.

Read Reviews Hotel Hassler

Opening in December, Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club will offer a new place to stay on the eastern Caribbean island known for postcard-perfect white sand beaches and pristine blue waters. The resort will debut with private air charter service from the continental United States; culinary destinations overseen by Chef Abram Bissell, formerly of Eleven Madison Park and The Modern; an 18-hole, Greg Norman Signature Design championship golf course; and a Sorana Spa.

Read Reviews Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club

Sedona, Arizona

We could all certainly use some good vibes going into the new year and Sedona, with its majestic red rocks and powerful vortex energy, is the perfect place for that spiritual reset. Book a room at the romantic L'Auberge de Sedona , where all accommodations are charming standalone cottages. You'll fill your days with tons of hiking, of course, and perhaps squeeze in a road trip or two to relatively nearby attractions, such as the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Lake Powell. The hotel has a slate of activities to round out the #goodvibesonly vacation, including stargazing, forest bathing, and sound healing.

Read Reviews L'Auberge de Sedona

Washington, Virginia

This New Year's Eve, The Inn at Little Washington will transport guests to Rio De Janeiro for a celebration inspired by the Copacabana Palace. The theme will be all-white, with elaborate decorations and costumes for staff including the house dalmatian, Luray. A themed menu will include wine pairings, and guests can take advantage of access to the property's 24 acres of rolling hills, farm, and gardens along with the newly opened Patty O's Cafe & Bakery.

Read Reviews The Inn at Little Washington

Denver, Colorado

The founder of Life House, Nantucket , a jewel of a boutique hotel that opened on the island in August 2020, has swiftly followed up with another property, this time in Denver. Like its New England sister, Life House, Lower Highlands is an intimate, charming, and thoughtfully decorated hotel in the center of town—think Victorian Industrialism meets the Wild Wild West. For New Year's Eve, Life House has partnered with the 90,000-acre Ranchlands Chico Basin Ranch to offer guests a picnic on the prairie with food sourced from the hotel's restaurant, Wildflower. Then back at the hotel, an in-room dinner will be served, along with a private jazz concert.

Read Reviews Life House, Lower Highlands

Saratoga, Wyoming

About three and half hours from Denver is The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch , a sprawling 30,000-acre ranch made for socially distanced, back-to-nature fun. Brush Creek also recently purchased a 620-acre private ski resort, Green Mountain, so you can add skiing to the property's long list of activities, which includes horseback riding, snowmobiling, ice skating, ice fishing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides.

Read Reviews The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Sam Dangremond is a Contributing Digital Editor at Town & Country, where he covers men's style, cocktails, travel, and the social scene.

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13 Underrated New Year’s Eve Destinations | Secluded Places to Celebrate With No Crowds

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New Year’s Eve is a magical time — the evening when we bid goodbye to the old year and usher in the new. The days between Christmas and December 31 are the perfect time to reflect, reminisce, set intentions, and be with the ones you love the most. It also happens to be a terrific time to hit the road. But if the hustle and bustle of a big city or huge crowds don’t appeal to you, you might do just as well to consider a secluded and serene start to the New Year. No thundering fireworks displays, no deafening live music.

Here are 13 places that make our shortlist for alternative, lovely, and low-key New Year’s Eve destinations.

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13 Underrated New Year’s Eve Destinations | Secluded Places You’ll Love

1. captiva island, florida.

If you’re hoping to hit the beach on New Year’s Eve, kick back and relax at a cottage rental on Captiva Island . This charming, low-key spot on Florida’s Gulf Coast is close enough to Fort Myers that you can stock up on supplies, but it somehow feels a million miles away. Known for its beaches that give up a whole host of shells — much to the delight of visitors — Captiva has a summery, shimmery feel all year long. For an outdoor day trip, rent bicycles and get outside to explore Captiva’s 20 miles of trails. Prepare the perfect feast at home, or consider an outdoor waterside evening nosh at The Mad Hatter , which offers a special tasting that evening.

Marisa Estivill / Shutterstock

2. Cannon Beach, Oregon

For a different kind of beachfront experience, consider the northern Oregon coast for your New Year’s Eve. The area isn’t tropical, but it is temperate, holding steady in the mid-50s during the day. Cannon Beach , best known for the dramatic and huge stone formations just off its coast, is a great spot to spend December 31. In the winter, many people flock there for storm watching; the Pacific Ocean can crank up angrily, causing waves that measure up to 300 feet. When you’re done taking in nature’s show (preferably from a cozy inn or beachfront rental), retreat to Cannon Beach’s adorable downtown, or explore nearby Astoria . And be sure to ring in the new year with an Oregon-produced wine or sparkling option.

Scott Prokop / Shutterstock

3. Sedona, Arizona

The energy is just different in Sedona , and that might be the thing you need to prepare for the new year ahead. Known the world over for its stunning red rock landscape, incredible hiking opportunities , and spa scene , this place would make an excellent backdrop for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration. While Sedona is a destination in its own right, with its gorgeous scenery, vibrant arts scene, and boutiques, galleries, and cafes, it’s also close to Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon and would make a terrific home base for an inspirational New Year’s trip to the South Rim.

topseller / Shutterstock

4. Incline Village, Nevada

Even if skiing isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the relaxing apres-ski vibe at Lake Tahoe for New Year’s. The much-loved mountain destination nestled in the majestic Sierra Nevadas and tucked between California and Nevada would make a luxe and cozy spot to ring in the new year. The north side of the lake definitely has a more laid-back, rustic feel, making it perfect for a secluded stay where the focus is on Mother Nature. Incline Village, Nevada , situated at the very northern tip of the lake, is a beautiful alpine town with several terrific accommodation options, including some incredible homeshares.

f11photo / Shutterstock

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Steeped in both beauty and history, Charleston is a gem that should also be considered for a New Year’s getaway. Granted, it’s a larger city than many of the others listed here, but there are plenty of places to hunker down and enjoy the holiday in peace. Take a walking tour along Charleston’s cobblestone streets to get a better feel for this enchanting place, admire the architecture, and stroll the harbor. Consider a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Enjoy an incredible seafood dinner at any number of the city’s renowned restaurants , and then hunker down at a historic inn — perhaps The Wentworth Mansion — for a private toast to usher in January 1.

Alejandro Segui / Shutterstock

6. Vieques, Puerto Rico

If you’re really longing for tropical sun and a laid-back vibe, the island of Vieques , just 7 miles from Puerto Rico , might fit your New Year’s bill! This quiet, tranquil haven is home to what many consider the world’s most beautiful beaches, both uncrowded and unspoiled. You’re not going to find any big-box amenities here or cookie-cutter condos — but that only adds to the island’s charm. Instead, there are boutique hotels, villas, and even cottages on offer for the perfect stay. For an incredible New Year’s Eve, consider a trip to Mosquito Bay. The water teems at night with bioluminescent organisms that give the bay an incredible, otherworldly glow.

7. New Harmony, Indiana

The village of New Harmony, Indiana , sits halfway between Saint Louis and Louisville , right on the Wabash River, and would make the perfect Midwestern late-December getaway. Many consider the hamlet to be a utopia, and indeed, when you visit, you might feel that way as well! Founded in 1818 by a small band of settlers who had broken from the German Lutheran Church, New Harmony was originally home to an industrious bunch. The group built more than 180 buildings during the time they were in the area, and many of these still stand. When the Germans moved back to Pennsylvania, another group bought the land from them and scientists, thinkers, and educators soon flocked to New Harmony. Today, the town is crammed with historic homes, buildings, and parks and boasts quaint inns, shops, and cafes.

Steve Collender / Shutterstock

8. Grafton, Illinois

Grafton, Illinois — only about an hour outside of Saint Louis — is another great riverfront Midwestern New Year’s locale. Grafton sits at the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers and is near the resulting towering limestone bluffs. Historic homes, cottages, and storefronts dot the riverfront. However, around New Year’s Eve, the town goes to the birds — literally. In the winter, majestic bald eagles gather at the river near Grafton to fish. They are stunning, and bird-watchers from around the region flock here to track their movements. When you’re ready to retreat back to your own cozy nest for New Year’s, consider a stay at the nearby Pere Marquette Lodge . Located in a state park, the lodge features quaint stone cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930s. There’s also an on-site wine-tasting room, and the restaurant serves up some of the best fried chicken we’ve ever had.

9. Boulder, Colorado

Just northwest of Denver , Boulder offers a mountain escape with fewer people, more outdoor opportunities, and a stunning backdrop for New Year’s Eve. Tucked into the scenic Flatirons, and home to the state’s flagship university, Boulder offers a funky college-town feel with plenty of luxe amenities. Stroll the Pearl Street Mall, hike the trails into the Flatirons, or just cuddle up with a beverage and a blanket and admire the alpine scenery. For a quiet, intimate stay, check out the historic Colorado Chautauqua . It’s a private community with on-site amenities, but cabins are routinely up for rent.

10. Northeastern Vermont

Winter sports enthusiasts who want a more laid-back, less congested New Year’s trip might do well to consider the northeastern portion of Vermont . Close to neighboring New Hampshire’s White Mountains, this area offers skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports, as well as plenty of places to get your arts and culture in, should you so choose. The wild and rugged landscape here is simply unforgettable, and when you are ready to kick back and relax, the renowned Rabbit Hill Inn will make sure you can do so in a luxe and welcoming setting.

11. Hawaii’s Big Island

Compared to Oahu , Hawaii’s Big Island is quiet, secluded, and truly feels off the grid. This makes it the perfect place to celebrate a laid-back but still stunning oceanside New Year. There’s truly something here for everyone: outdoor adventure, boatloads of culture, beautiful beaches, and luxe accommodations. You can be as active or as lazy as you’d like; no one’s keeping score. Snorkel to see the incredible underwater life, swim in the warm waters, take an incredible hike near active volcanoes, or simply lounge on the black, white, and even green beaches! Consider this one-day itinerary , which can easily be broken up at your leisure, as well as a traditional luau to ring in the new year. The beautiful Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Kohala Coast is a terrific place for a splurge stay to start the new year off right!

Pro Tip: We are talking about New Year’s Eve, so accommodations are bound to be booked quickly. If you’ve decided you definitely need a change of scene, start planning early to ensure the best options for your perfect getaway!

12. Zion National Park, Utah

For travelers looking to Ditch the iconic New Year’s Eve party destinations, consider visiting a national park like Zion National Park in Southwestern Utah. Located less than 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, Zion National Park is perfect for sandstone cliff gazing.

There will still be crowds but a different vibe, as you will be surrounded by people who love the cold and looking to hike and be outdoors. So, imagine spending New Year’s festivities in a place like that. Having a glass of champagne under a night sky full of stars is one of the most peaceful and soul-stirring ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

13. Key West, Florida

Though Miami might have a ball drop on national TV, the Sunshine State’s best New Year’s party is still in Key West. The quirky, funky island has its own unique drops. Four locations host the iconic NYE drop in Key West , so it’s the perfect place to go for an uninhibited end-of-the-year celebration.

People typically expect the usual nightclub party scene, special restaurant menus, and live entertainment during New Year’s Eve, but, if you don’t want to mingle, you can still discover a plethora of unique events found only on this island.

What Are the Best Places for New Year in the USA?

Orlando was named the place to be for New Year’s Eve celebration in 2023. Coming in a rather close second place is San Diego while, unsurprisingly, the famed ball drop in Times Square was enough to keep NYC at the top of the list. 

Why Go To Secluded New Year’s Eve Destinations?

Because popular destinations are often overcrowded, overpriced, and overrated. Instead, go to some of the underrated New Year’s Eve locations around the globe that put on unique New Year’s Eve celebrations without enormous swarms of crowds.

Is New Year’s Eve The Most Popular Holiday in the U.S.?

No, New Year’s celebrations rank fourth on Americans’ list of favorite holidays, with 41% of the population calling it their favorite. 78% of Americans love Christmas, while Thanksgiving and July 4th came in second and third.

What Is the Favourite US New Year’s Tradition?

Most Americans enjoy watching the New Year’s celebration at Times Square on TV. New Year’s Day is a national holiday in the United States. Sharing a kiss with a loved one when the clock strikes midnight and countless fireworks displays are the traditions.

What Is the Most Crowded Place to Celebrate New Year’s in the U.S.?

Times Square in New York City is the most crowded place to celebrate New Year’s in the U.S. Hundreds of thousands of people gather to witness the iconic ball drop, creating a bustling, electrifying atmosphere. The event symbolizes the nation’s collective enthusiasm for ringing in the New Year.

Communication done well has always been Erika’s career focus. She’s served as a publicist and PR expert for several non-profit organizations based in St. Louis. Prior to that, she was an Emmy Award–winning television newscast producer.

When she’s not training for her next race or packing for another trip, you’ll find Erika hanging out with her husband, son, and personal zoo, which includes a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, two cats, and a grumpy pygmy hedgehog.

New Year 2024: 25 Popular Places In The World To Celebrate New Year

New Year is definitely one of the main events when everyone is excited to welcome the arrival of new year with their closed ones. Whether its welcoming New Year with a glass of champagne, countdown party or an intimate dinner, everyone plans something special to ring the arrival of New Year. There are many best places to celebrate New Year in the world that hosts crazy parties and events to engage people and celebrate the arrival of New Year. Nothing can be more special than celebrating New Year with your closed ones amidst a fancy setting, so if you haven’t planned anything yet, give this blog a quick read to know about the fancy places to go on New Year in the world.

New Year 2024: 23 Stunning Places To Celebrate The Arrival Of New Year

Celebrating Christmas and New Year is the most fun thing and almost the whole world comes under one sky with the same zest and emotion in their heart. Countries with different cultures and believes

Enjoy a memorable New Year’s Eve 2022-23 at these amazing places to celebrate New Year in the world and have the best time of your life.

1. Sydney, Australia

One of the best New Year destinations , Sydney offers a delightful experience to anyone who is longing for a thrilling night out on New Year’s Eve. The mesmerizing fireworks over the Sydney Harbor looks absolutely enchanting and are worth-capturing. One can also witness the massive fireworks by booking a luxurious Coast Harbor Cruises that offer an unforgettable 1-hour experience with drinks, fancy food and stunning fireworks at Sydney’s most iconic location, the Sydney Harbor. If not the cruise, you can book a fancy dinner at any of the waterfront restaurants and celebrate the New Year eve with all the pomp and show.

Where to Stay: Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, InterContinental Sydney, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, Sydney Harbor Marriott Hotel at Circular Bay.

Things to Do: Book a lavish cruise, witness fireworks over Sydney Harbor, attend various New Year events.

Nearest Airport: Kingsford Smith International Airport

Ideal For: Families

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Australia Which Should Be On Every Traveler’s Bucket List

2. Las Vegas, Nevada

One of the most intriguing places to go on New Year is Las Vegas in Nevada. Just think what would be an ambience of this place on New Year when it is so enchanting even on the normal days. One of the best-known party destinations in the world, Las Vegas comes to life on New Year’s Eve with its lively casinos, nightclubs, hotel events, crazy fireworks and a lot more. Visit the Las Vegas strip where the crowd gets crazy and massive New Year celebration takes place. Gold Diggers, Lavo Casino Club, Drai’s Nightclub, Club 101, Omnia are some of the best nightclubs in Las Vegas to witness the best New Year parties in 2024.

Where to Stay: MGM Grand, Luxor Hotel & Casino, Bellagio Hotel & Casino

Things to Do: Stroll through the Las Vegas Strip, enjoy at alluring casinos, witness fireworks over the Las Vegas Strip

Nearest Airport: McCarran International Airport

Ideal For: Friends

3. Miami, United States

Miami is one of the well-known party destinations in the world and the mesmerizing beauty of this place adds more charm to New Year celebrations. If you are thinking about where to go for New Year , then the best answer would be Miami. The beaches in Miami are all lively and offers crazy parties to help you welcome New Year in style. Witness the spectacular free fireworks in South Beach and Bayfront Park in Miami Downtown. Enjoy a fancy dinner while indulging in New Year festivities at the Wharf Miami which is located along the Miami River. For a lavish and out of the box New Year festivities, book a yacht at the Biscayne Bay to enjoy a thrilling DJ night, top-notch hospitality, exotic variety of drinks and a lot more.

Where to Stay: InterContinental Miami, Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay, JW Marriott Marquis Miami, Clevelander South Beach Hotel and Bar

Things to Do: Enjoy a yacht party, witness stunning fireworks over Miami Downtown and South Beach for free, enjoy rooftop parties at Sugar or EAST Miami.

Nearest Airport: Fort Lauderdale International Airport

Ideal For: Families, Friends

Suggested Read: Gorgeous Places To Go For New Year In The USA For A Grand Celebration

4. Venice, Italy

Looking for the best place to spend New Year's Eve in Venice, we have got you covered. Venice with its postcard-perfect canals and stupendous architecture lures many tourists for a vacation here. Spectacular parties are held here on New Year’s Eve for the entertainment of the people. Witness the Italy-style New Year celebration which starts from a lavish dinner and nothing can beat a true Venetian style dinner retreat on a boat with picturesque views. La Fenice Opera House is another place in Venice to witness a sweet and simple New Year celebration in the form of concerts. People who fancy art and theatre would love to celebrate here. The Big Party at the St Mark’s Square, one of the best New Year parties in the world is another great spot where a lot of people gather at midnight to welcome the arrival of New Year. Singers and artists perform here and the massive fireworks also takes place at sharp 12:00 am.

Where to Stay: Four Points by Sheraton Venice Mestre, Villa Erica, Palazzo Ca’Nova, Aman Venice

Things to Do: Witness the intriguing fireworks at Piazza San Marco, enjoy a fancy Italian feast at any of the popular restaurants in Venice, Take party in the Big Party at the St Mark’s Square.

Nearest Airport: Venezia Airport

Ideal For: Couples, Friends

5. Dubai, UAE

As the clock strikes 12, many of the spots in Dubai display magnificent display of fireworks which is just so satisfying to watch. The fancy shows at the Burj Khalifa and the live water-music at the Dubai Fountain. Many people gather at the waterfront of Dubai Fountain to witness the best New Year celebration in the world to witness the astonishing display of light and sound at the Burj Khalifa and the light and water show at the Dubai Fountain. You can also book a table at any of the restaurants dotted on the waterfront area to feast on delectable feast and enjoy the breathtaking views at the same time. In order to get the uninterrupted views of Downtown fireworks, head to Burj Plaza and book a table here to relish dinner at the same time.

Where to Stay: Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Taj Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai, Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, Shangri-la Hotel Dubai

Things to Do: Enjoy and light, sound and water show at the Dubai Fountain, marvel at the gorgeous views of the Burj Khalifa, enjoy live performances at Dubai Opera, book a lavish dinner cruise

Nearest Airport: Sharjah Airport

Suggested Read: New Year in Dubai UAE: The Best Tailored Plan For Your New Year Eve

6. Cape Town, South Africa

Get enchanted by the lively and vibrant ambience of the city of Cape Town by booking flights to South Africa . V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is one of the best places to ring in New Year. The live band, eateries, carnival characters and a lot more adds to the beauty of this area brimmed with madding crowd all set to ring in the arrival of New Year. From carnival-themed performances to boat cruises and stellar shows to lavish dinners, Cape Town is the best New Year destination in South Africa. Catch the best fireworks from the Table Mountain or Signal Hill if you want to avoid crowds.

Where to Stay: Cape Town Mariotte Hotel, V&A Marina – Waterfront Apartments Cape Town, The Commodore Hotel, Taj Cape Town, the Table Hotel Cape Town

Things to Do: Enjoy lavish dinner or a cocktail at NYE cruise, Witness fireworks from Table Mountain, stroll through the V&A Waterfront.

Nearest Airport: Cape Town International Airport

Suggested Read: Top Hotels In South Africa For Your Next Great Escape To The Country

7. New York, United States

Nothing can beat the New Year celebrations at the New York’s most iconic location which is Times Square Ball Drop. Lakhs of people gather here to witness the stupendous Waterfront Crystal Ball drop at midnight on the massive screens fitted all over the square. New York also fascinates people by its mesmerizing fireworks at the Central Park and New York Harbor. New York is definitely the best place to celebrate New Year in the world as it offers great unlimited options for the Eve’s celebrations. You can also take a luxury dinner cruise on a yacht at the Staten Island and sip in a glass of cocktail while enjoying the most picturesque views. Dance on the latest beats at any of New York’s bar or club or book a table at rooftop restaurant to witness massive fireworks.

Where to Stay: Hyatt Herald Square New York, Mandarin Oriental, The Pierre, The Chatwal, Lowell Hotel

Things to Do: Witness fireworks at Central Park and New York Harbor, Enjoy a dinner at rooftop hotel, Marvel at the Times Square Ball Drop

Nearest Airport: LaGuardia Airport

Ideal For: Family, Friends

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In The USA Which Should Be In Every Traveler’s Bucket List

8. Paris, France

One of the best places in the world for New Year especially for couples is Paris where the spectacular fireworks take place at the Eiffel Tower making the whole aura very romantic and perfect to enter the near year with your partner. Count down for the arrival of New Year at the most iconic location in Paris called the Champs-Elysées where thousands of local people gather to celebrate the arrival of the New Year together. Cabaret shows are very popular in Paris and what could be a better occasion to witness them than a New Year? Head to Moulin Rouge and witness a breathtaking performance by different artists, musicians and vocalists. If clubbing is your game on New Year’s Eve, then head to Rex Club which is one of the most striking places to party all night on the New Year Day. All these things to do in Paris makes it one of the best places to celebrate New Year 2024 .

Where to Stay: Hotel de Crillon, Ritz Paris, Hotel Du Jeu De Paume, La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris by The Crest Collection, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris

Things to Do: Capture the stunning fireworks at the Eiffel Tower, enjoy the best cabaret show in the world at Moulin Rouge, enjoy partying all night at different clubs, welcome New Year with a glass of champagne at any of the rooftop restaurants.

Nearest Airport: Roissy Charles de Gaulle

Ideal For: Couples

9. Goa, India

Known as the party destination of India, Goa is one of the best places to celebrate New Year. With stunning beach parties, clubs, casinos and varied New Year events, Goa is just the right choice if you are looking for a budget yet exciting night on New Year. If you are searching for where to celebrate New Year 2024 , then Goa should be an ideal location which will host events and parties with limited seating capacity. From intimate parties for couples to the ones with madding crowds, Goa is brimmed with all things beautiful and thrilling on New Year’s Eve. The beaches in Goa come to life with bonfire and barbecue being served, crazy parties and breathtaking fireworks. Cruise party is a real thing in Goa and you can book one for yourself to witness the most spectacular Goa celebrations.

Where to Stay: Double Tree by Hilton Goa - Panaji, Casa Britona, Vivanta, Goa – Panaji, The Crown Goa, Vivanta by Taj – Fort Aguada, Goa Marriott Resort & Spa, The Leela Goa

Things to Do: Cruise party, Bonfire and barbecue, Witness grand celebrations at Tito’s Club and Café Mambos

Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport

Ideal For: Friends, Couples

Suggested Read: Stunning Places To Visit In India To Rejuvenate Your Senses

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is world famous for its Copacabana Beach Party which makes Rio one of the best places in the world for New Year celebration. The beach receives around 20 lakhs people on the New Year’s Eve, all gathered together to witness the grand celebration and ring the arrival of New Year together.  After the fireworks, it is mandatory for people to jump seven waves and make seven wishes. People also offer flowers and floating candles to Goddess Iemanjá and make wishes for the New Year. You can also book any of the beachfront restaurant’s terrace area to enjoy al fresca dining while enjoying the jaw-dropping fireworks.

Where to Stay: Hilton Barra Rio de Janeiro, LSH Lifestyle Hotel, Belmond Copacabana Palace,

Things to Do: Enjoy the wildest New Year party in the world at Copacabana Beach, enjoy al fresco dining at the rooftop restaurants, devote your prayers and offering to the Goddess of ocean, Iemanjá.

Nearest Airport: Galeão International Airport

Ideal For: Families, Couples

11. Bangkok, Thailand

One of the best places to travel to for New Year is Bangkok where the Central World Square is the highlight of the city on the main Eve when various people gather together to celebrate the arrival of New Year. Fascinating fireworks that place here and the square is dotted with various bars and clubs that come to life as soon as the clock strikes 12. Another enchanting thing to do in Bangkok is to take a lavish dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River where you can relish international and Thai buffet along with exotic drinks and seafood. Witness the intriguing skyline and the fireworks for a soul-satisfying new year experience. Bangkok hosts some of the best new year parties in the world like Meta Music Festival, White Party, Glitter & Glam and Beam NYE. Various rooftop dining venues like Sky Bar at Lebua, Octave Rooftop Bar – Marriott at Hotel Sukhumvit and Sirocco can also be booked to enjoy a spectacular New Year bash.

Suggested Read: Where To Stay In Thailand: Your Complete Guide To The Top Cities And Hotels?

Where to Stay: Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, JW Marriott Hotel – Bangkok, Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit, Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen's Park

Things to Do: Attend various events at Khao San Road, enjoy a countdown party at Central World Square, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River

Nearest Airport: New Bangkok International Airport

12. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a stunning destination to ring the New Year bells as you can enjoy best parties at public squares in Amsterdam like Dam Square, Nieuwmarkt and Rembrandtplein. The best part about these squares is that they are free and one can enjoy new year celebrations with gusto. Beer tents can also be spotted with live entertainment. Amsterdam is one of the best places to go for New Year’s Eve with family as there are ample of sophisticated parties that takes place here. For a little out of the box experience, head to Amstel River and run into the chilly water of the river to welcome the arrival of New Year with thousands of other people. Amsterdam Light Festival is another happening event that takes place every year from December to January with canals and roads all illuminated with fairy lights, making the whole ambience extremely enchanting.

Where to Stay: Park Inn Amsterdam, QO Amsterdam, Hilton Amsterdam, Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

Things to Do: Enjoy at the Amsterdam light festival, Experience the best New Year celebrations at the many squares in Amsterdam

Nearest Airport: Schiphol Airport

Ideal for: Families, Couples

13. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a stunning destination to welcome New Year in style where one can witness one of the best fireworks from spots like Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. If you like to avoid too much crowded places, then head to Petrin Hill or Charles Bridge to witness the spectacular views. Partying while cruising is another great option to celebrate New Year in Prague. Jazz cruise, boat party, dinner cruise etc. are some of the options available. One of the best places to go on New Year in central Europe is Prague in Czech Republic.

Where to Stay: Grand Majestic Hotel Prague, Hilton Prague, H7 Palace, Grand Hotel Praha

Things to Do: Mesmerize at the fireworks at Old Town Square, Enjoy New Year’s Eve party at the cruise or a boat,

Nearest Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague

Suggested Read: Fancy Places To Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2022 In Doha, Qatar

14. Madrid, Spain

A city which is world-renowned for its parties goes crazy especially on the New Year’s Eve. If you are searching for where to go for New Year celebrations then we would be definitely recommend Madrid to you. One unique tradition which you would find here in Madrid is eating 12 grapes sharp at 12:00 am marking the arrival of New Year. Feasting on a scrumptious dinner is another way of celebrating New Year in Madrid, the traditional dinner here usually consists of lamb or seafood. Royal Palace is another hotspot for New Year celebrations in Madrid. Witness a great countdown party at Puerta del Sol with a huge variety of drinks and food.

Where to Stay: Hotel Catalonia Atocha, Holiday Inn Express Madrid – Getafe, InterContinental Madrid, Mandarin Oriental Ritz Madrid

Things to Do: Follow the tradition of eating 12 grapes at 12:00 am, feast on a heaty dinner, stroll through the Royal Palace

Nearest Airport: Madrid Barajas Airport

Ideal for: Families, Friends

15. Vancouver, Canada

Another happening New Year destination is Vancouver in Canada which comes to life on the main Eve of New Year. The best way to celebrate New Year in Vancouver is by booking a cruise and party all night with great music, drinks, fireworks and a lot more. Canada Place and Vancouver Convention Center are the two main hotspots in Vancouver to celebrate New Year. Various annual events also take place here, so people can explore different places and enjoy eclectic parties on New Year’s Eve.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Rosewood Hotel Georgia, Pan Pacific Vancouver, Hotel Fairmont Pacific Rim, the Sylvia Hotel

Things to Do: Cruise party, attend events, marvel at the fireworks over Canada Place and Vancouver Convention Center

Nearest Airport: Vancouver International Airport

16. London, England

One of the best places to go on New Year in the world is London where the celebration of New Year’s Eve takes place on a grand scale. Thames river with stunning backdrop of the New Year fireworks make for the most picturesque view. One needs to pay to watch the fireworks from the main staging area while free views can be admired from spots like Alexandra Palace, Primrose Hill and Greenwich Park. A dine-in option at London Skybar is also a great option to celebrate New Year in London where one can also indulge in a thrilling champagne party while admiring the stunning views from the top. Entering into New Year with a fascinating countdown party can be witnessed at the Big Ben, the iconic monument in London.

Where to Stay: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London, The Waldorf Hilton, London, Sea Containers London, The Ampersand Hotel, Apex City of London Hotel

Things to Do: Admire fireworks from Thames River, enjoy fine dining at rooftop restaurants, take part in the countdown party at Big Ben

Nearest Airport: Heathrow Airport

17. Vienna, Austria

Looking for best places in the world to celebrate New Year 2024 ? Get your tickets booked for a fancy gala dinner in Vienna to welcome the arrival in New Year in the best possible way. Also known as Silvester, New Year’s Eve in Austria is celebrated with great enthusiasm and Silvesterpfad is the major highlight of the city as it is a series of events and shows that takes place on the New Year’s Eve. If wandering through the lit markets fascinate you, then Silvesterdorf and Neujahrmarkt are two good options which become lively during the Christmas and New Year time in Vienna.

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Wien, Park Hyatt Vienna, Palais Hansen Kempinski, Hotel Sans Souci Wien, The Ritz-Carlton, Vienna

Things to Do: Stroll through the fancy markets, enjoy a gala dinner and get New Year vibes at Stephansplatz or Rathausplatz Square.

Nearest Airport: Vienna Airport (VIE)

Suggested Read: Top Things to Do in Austria For Everlasting Fun And Thrill

18. Hawaii, USA

Hawaii is one of the best New Year destinations that offers a great party experience to all the enthusiastic souls. There are various resorts and other party destinations in Hawaii that throw grand New Year bash. One crazy thing that happens only in Hawaii is the dropping of objects like a pineapple drop which is quite famous amongst the local people here. Hawaii also offers opportunities to celebrate New Year 2024 on the scenic beaches or on a dinner cruise with exotic drink in hand and mesmerizing views. Marvel at the fascinating fireworks at Poipu Beach Park or book a fancy cocktail cruise at Lahaina Harbor. There are ample things to do in Hawaii on New Year’s Eve which makes it one of the best places in the world to celebrate New Year.

Where to Stay: Hotel LaCroix, Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei, Hilton Waikoloa Village, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

Things to Do: Enjoy a cocktail cruise at Lahaina Harbor, see the dropping objects, marvel at the fireworks at Poipu Beach Park

Nearest Airport: Honolulu Airport (HNL)

Ideal for: Couples

19. Moscow, Russia

If you love the celebrations amidst the chills of extremely cold weather, then Moscow could be a perfect place to ring in the New Year celebrations . The city looks absolutely stunning with mesmerizing fireworks show that can be witnessed from places like Red Square and Kremlin. If you are looking for free celebrations, then there are various parks in Moscow where free concerts and events are conducted with grand new year celebration. Arbat Street in Moscow is brimmed with various bars and clubs where an exotic new year party can be enjoyed with drinks and snacks option. Almost every street in Moscow is beautifully decorated in Moscow on New Year’s Eve and one can get Insta-worthy photos anywhere in the city.

Where to Stay: Radisson Collection Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow, The Ritz-Carlton Moscow

Things to Do: Witness the grand New Year celebration at Red Square, attend club parties at Arbat Street, witness free N ew Year’s Eve party at the various parks in Moscow

Nearest Airport: Pushkin Airport

Ideal for: Couples, Family, Friends

20. Lisbon, Portugal

New Year celebrations in Lisbon are taken on next level with grand parties, eye-catching fireworks and live music. If you are someone who fancies welcoming the New Year with great pomp and show, then Lisbon should be in your itinerary. Enjoy the best New Year Eve events at Terreiro do Paço with the local people there with artists performing live shows. There are different clubs at Pink Street and Bairro Alto that hosts a number of thrilling new year parties. If you are someone who likes a calmer and serene celebration on New Year’s Eve, then we would suggest you to attend Fado, a traditional singing of the Portuguese which is very soothing to the senses.

Where to Stay: Hotel Ritz, Myriad, Avenida Palace, Hotel Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa

Things to Do: Attend a Fado night, witness new year events at Terreiro do Paço, party at the various clubs in Pink street

Nearest Airport: Lisbon Portela Airport

Ideal for: Couples, Friends

21. Tokyo, Japan

One of the best places to celebrate New Year 202 i4n the world is undoubtably Tokyo in Japan. The new year celebrations at this place starts from 29th December and continues till 4th January. You get to take part in the festivities for not just one day but for a week. Isn’t it interesting? One of the best places to celebrate new year in Tokyo is Meiji Shrine which is a place brimmed with tourists as it is an important shrine in the city. Another great place to enjoy new year in Tokyo is Zoji-ji Temple where a monk rings the bell 108 times to denote the arrival of new year. Due to the religious and cultural importance, the temple is visited by many locals and tourists alike. If you like crowd and the party vibe, then partake in the countdown party that takes place at the Shibuya Crossing which is one of the best outdoor New Year parties in the world .

Where to Stay: Hotel Risveglio Akasaka, Park Hyatt Tokyo, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel,

Things to Do: Celebrate new year at Meiji Shrine and Zoji-ji Temple, partake in the countdown party at Shibuya Crossing

Nearest Airport: Haneda Airport

22. Queenstown, New Zealand

If you are looking for where to celebrate New Year 2024 , one of the best places to visit is Queenstown in New Zealand. The city is known to host the first New Year celebrations in the world. For a free new year party, head to lakefront where one of the best parties takes place with fireworks, live music and scenic views. With loads of positive vibes, fun and entertainment, it is a great place to enjoy New Year’s Eve. However, there is no alcohol available here. For the best New Year fireworks 2024 in Queenstown, head to Earnslaw Park where the grand new year festivity takes place. Queenstown also has a number of bars and clubs where one can enjoy drinks and music with their friends. For some extra fun and entertainment, head to Rhythm and Alps where renowned musicians from New Zealand as well from other parts of the world come.

Where to Stay: QT Queenstown, Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa, Heritage Queenstown, The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences

Things to Do: Celebrate at the lakefront, enjoy live music at the various bars, attend Rhythm and Alps event for extra entertainment

Nearest Airport: Queenstown International Airport

Ideal for: Family, Couples, Friends

23. Berlin, Germany

The 1.8 km length between Brandenburg Gate and the Victory Column becomes over-filled with roughly one million people eager to do whatever to celebrate the new year and party," to use the phrase. One of the greatest spots in Europe to ring in the new year in Berlin. Berlin's streets are the busiest on December 31 due to the level of involvement, which will make your New Year's party in 2024 even more spectacular. It goes without saying that there will be fireworks, music, dance, noise, cuisine, magic shows, alcohol, beer, and other fun things to do to make it one of the greatest venues to ring in the new year in 2024.

Where to Stay: Fjord Hotel Berlin and Hilton Berlin

Things to Do: Dance party at the 3 storey Berlin Tv Tower and check out Berlin's romantic locales if you're traveling there with someone special.

Nearest Airport: Berlin Tegel Airport

Ideal for: Family and Friends

24. Edinburgh, Scotland

New Year in Scotland is a festive affair like no other. With its 3-day Hogmanay extravaganza kicking off from 31st Dec 2023, you can expect several events lining up, such as concerts, fancy dress activities, fireworks, and much more. Everyone comes together to welcome the new year with happy vibes and laughter. Unlike other new years you might have celebrated, the fun festivities here are unique and exceptionally memorable. The overall merry atmosphere would make you sing and dance along with the locals, being a part of their culture and heritage. So, look forward to a night that you'll remember for years to come.

Where to Stay: Waldorf Astoria - Caledonian and Macdonald Houstoun House

Things to Do: Dance in the streets, enjoy live music, participate in dog-sledding competition, dive into River Forth

Nearest Airport: Edinburgh Airport

Ideal for: Family, friends, couples

Mexico, one of the most vibrant countries in the world has an equally vibrant and enthralling new year celebration that you can't miss out on. Partying here means bringing out your glitziest outfit and blending in with the local crowd of this country. The most unique aspect of new year in Mexico is that you can wear the colors depending on what you want from the new year. For instance, red refers to love, yellow is the color money or luck, and so on. The parties here are as wild as it can get, from enjoying the night at Cancun beach or reveling on the streets of Guadalajara. You'll find every nook and cranny here celebrating the day in their own way.

Where to Stay: Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun

Things to Do: Party at the Cancun Beach, soak in the party vibes on the streets of Guadalajara, watch fireworks

Nearest Airport: Mexico City Airport

Ideal for: Families, friends, couples

Top New Year 2024 Events Around The Globe

Bidding adieu to 2022 can be quite exciting and mesmerizing. While you have picked the best destination in the world to celebrate New Year 2023-2024, check out these events that are to be organized for your entertainment.

1. New Year Eve Firework at Sydney

Get ready to welcome New Year in a new dazzling way. Sydney hosts the most magnificent firework display in Sydney Harbour, around the soothing vibes of the waters. Sydney in Australia has always been the most famous holiday destination, especially when it comes to celebration and fun. There are many events hosted in the city but it is the 31st December fireworks by the Sydney City Council, which lures people from all walks of life. Hop on the cruises at the harbor for incredible nightlife and witness the fireworks from a closer distance. One thing that you cannot miss witnessing is the ships parade in the Harbor of Lights.

The fireworks would begin at 9 P.M and at midnight and you can enjoy this view for free for as long as you want.

Other New Year 2024 Celebration In Sydney:

• City Extra Sydney New Years Eve Dining
• The Sydney Boulevard Hotel New Year's Eve Cocktail Party
• Cargo NYE Darling Harbor Party
• New Year's Eve 2023 on the Terrace

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit in Sydney: Attractions For Your Splendid Vacation in Australia

2. New Year Dinner Cruise at New York City Harbor

Get ready for a romantic dinner cruise at the famous New York City. Sailing along the shores of New York City harbor, you can witness the vast sky adorning the vivacious firework. This is one of the most engaging and exciting 2024 new year celebrations in the world where one can delve into the beauty of night harbor and the luxury of a lavish cruise. The boat deck, overlooking the New York City, Jersey City, and Brooklyn gives an exhilarating vibe and a captivating view you cannot miss. There will be packages available for the NYE cruise party to celebrate New Year.

The package will include:

• 3-course dinner menu
• Rockin’ DJ for Dancing the Night Away
• Party Favors & Festive Decoration
• Special new year eve's menu
• Access to open bar
• Sparkling wine with chocolate covered strawberries during countdown

Best Cruises For 2024 New Year Celebration:

• Jewel Yacht
• Star of Palm Beach
• New York Princess
• NYC Cruises
• Harbor Lights Yacht

3. A Luxury New Year Celebration At Burj Khalifa

Dubai is one of the best holiday destinations and the perfect place for your new year 2024 celebration in the world. Home to one of the tallest buildings in the world, the Burj Khalifa, you can plan a perfect luxury holiday for the new year. On the 31st December evening, the whole building is well decorated with dazzling and vibrant lights. The most impressive feature of the evening is the rockets and firecrackers with a laser and light show. With the perfect backdrop of the Dubai Fountain, these fireworks are famous all over the world. For the new year 2023, there will be events like a music fest and more organized at Burj Khalifa to entertain you for the evening. There are hotels and cafes, the observatory deck, and other exciting spots where you can spend quality time.

Other Places to Enjoy the New Year 2024 celebration in Dubai:

• Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis
• Dhow Cruise Party
• Dubai Marina Cruise
• Dubai Festival City

4. An Enthralling Masquerade Experience For New Year’s Eve 2023 in Paris

Plan a perfect night in Paris by attending a grand Masquerade in Paris. There are many nightclubs and restaurants that are organizing a perfect Masquerade in the city. The Régine Louvre hotel in the city is among those top venues where you can book your tickets for a Masquerade party. The ticket price started from 50€ – 49 Rue de Ponthieu Paris 8. You can also book your stay at this luxury hotel and capture the sight of the Eiffel Tower. There are top attractions nearby like the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, the Trocadéro, the Invalides, the Orsay Museum.

Other Places For New Year 2024 celebration in Paris:

• American New Year’s Eve 2023 at Players Bar
• 2023 New Year’s Eve at Le Cavern
• 2023 Saint-Germain des Prés Year’s Eve at the Alcazar Club
• Réveillon 2022 au MadaM
• CanauxRama Gourmet Dinner Cruise for Paris New Year’s Eve 2023

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Paris: Your Best Attractions In The Capital Of France

5. Musical Nights In Venice for Celebrating New Year 2024

Are you a music lover? If yes, Venice is the best city to celebrate New Year 2024 in Italy. Concerts and musical nights are a tradition in Venice, Italy, and such events are the reason why this romantic place in the world is also considered the best place for events like New Year. Now, talking about where to attend the New Year's Eve concert, there are many restaurants and hotels that will be hosting the eve celebration. You can get yourself a ticket to Teatro La Fenice to enjoy the orchestra, ballet, and opera.

Another event is being held at the Scuola Grande di San Teodoro. There will be the best musicians on New Year’s Eve and on New Year’s Day to entertain you and make the night extra memorable.

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Italy For A Breathtaking Vacation

6. New Year 2024 Celebration at London New Year's Day Parade

The hub for parties and more, London is surely the top place in the world for celebrating New Year 2024. Each year this city brings something new and unique to mark the eve and make it a memory for all tourists. This year there is a New Year's Day Parade on 1st January, which will start during noon at Piccadilly. However, before that, you can enjoy the a number of indoor and outdoor events. The highlight of this parade is that it raises funds for London's charities as well, so this year, celebrate new year for a cause.

Other New Year 2024 Celebration In London:

• London New Year's Eve Ball at Evolution London
• NYE River Cruises on the Thames
• New Years Eve Party at the Tate Modern

Suggested Read: Ever Wondered What Nightlife In The United Kingdom has to offer!

Nothing can be more satisfying than celebrating the arrival of New Year with your closed ones and in a scenic location with fascinating fireworks, drinks, parties and a lot more. These were a handful of best places to celebrate New Year that offers a soul-satisfying experience to all the visitors, giving them good vibes on the grand festivity of New Year. Get your air tickets booked to any of these stunning places and enjoy the New Year festivities with gusto.

Some of the best cities to spend New Year’s Eve 2023 are:

• Venice, Italy
• Sydney, Australia
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Miami, United States

(Kindly check with the concerned travel authorities before booking your tickets as travel is restricted to many places in the wake of Coronavirus)

Goa is definitely the best place to celebrate New Year in India where one can enjoy cruise dinners, beach parties, New Year events and a lot more.

Paris is one of the most striking destinations to celebrate New Year which is ideal for both families and friends. Some of the best things to do here are:

• Enjoy the best countdown party at Champs-Elysées.
• Marvel at intriguing fireworks at the Eiffel Tower.
• Enjoy champagne at any of the rooftop restaurants.
• Head to Moulin Rouge for the best live performance.
• Enjoy clubbing at Rex Club.

Countries like Kiribati and Tonga which lies in the pacific region are the first to celebrate New Year followed by New Zealand.

Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, France and USA are the countries which celebrate the best New Year in the world.

There are many countries that offer New Year celebrations on budget like:

USA is a great destination to welcome the arrival of New Year. There are many cities in USA which hosts various parties, events and other grand celebrations. Some of the best ones are:

• Honolulu, Hawaii
• Los Angeles, California
• Portland, Oregon

Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach throws the largest and the best New Party in the world where around 2 to 3 million people gather every year.

There are so many amazing ways to celebrate New Year depending on your mood and interests. Some of the most happening things to celebrate New Year are:

• A gala dinner with loved ones.
• Watch the mesmerizing fireworks.
• A dinner cruise with stunning landscape.
• A movie date with your partner.
• Stroll through the night markets.
• Enjoy a beach party with friends.
• Attend New Year events at a club.

Some of the cities that offer the best views of fireworks on New Year are:

• London, England
• Las Vegas, Navada
• New York, United States
• Bangkok, Thailand

Some of the best hotels to stay in New York on New Year’s Eve are:

• Dream Downtown
• Hyatt Herald Square New York
• Mandarin Oriental
• Lowell Hotel
• The Chatwal
• Warwick New York

There are various hotels in New York that offer mesmerizing views of the ball drop like:

• DoubleTree Suites by Hilton
• Crowne Plaza
• Casablanca Hotel
• Marriott’s Residence Inn
• Renaissance Hotel Times Square
• The Knickerbocker Hotel

Tulika Pandey

I am a travel enthusiast, who likes to move on wheels with a backpack to meet new people and explore new places. I like to share my experiences through words and pictures with the world.

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Top 20 New Year's Eve Destinations in the USA

Last Updated on September 25, 2022 by Nikki Jain

New Year's Eve in the USA is a time-honored tradition for several reasons.

Celebrating the New Year in style is a way of bringing closure to all the former year has brought and welcoming all that is to come in the next.

Thus, choosing the best destination for you is essential.

This list of 20 New Year's Eve Destinations in the USA seeks to offer several options for any reader.

From the family-oriented parent searching for a child-friendly vacation to the 20-something partyer simply looking to have a thrilling evening as the New Year rolls in, you will find an option below.

New Year night in the USA is traditionally made to be one to remember.

As such, you will find excellent parties, unbelievable food, and fireworks galore across the country.

So read on to find the most ideal destinations for New Year's Eve celebrations in the United States.

Best Places To Go For New Year in USA

Affiliate links may be used in this post. I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you use my affiliate link.

1: New York City, New York

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Being in New York City on New Year's Eve is an unmatched experience.

But what is it about NYC on NYE that is so unparalleled? Well, aside from the ball dropping in Times Square, which marks the new year with massive crowds of hopefuls as well as celebrity-filled performances, the entire city enters a celebration mode.

In other words, the energy that just about anything can happen is palpable in the city all night long.

So, whether you’re joining the crowds in Times Square and making new friends while at it; popping from party to party (as the whole city seems like one massive party); dining at a world-renowned restaurant; or hitting up one of NYC’s unbelievable New Year’s Eve concerts, you will find no shortage of possibilities in the city that never sleeps.

Thus, NYC tops our list of best New Year's Eve destinations in the USA, and you'll simply have to see it to believe it.

Accommodation: Where to stay in New York City

Address: New York City, NY

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in New York State

2: Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida

Now, not everyone reading this list is a 20-something partyer looking for the ideal destination for that New Year's Eve soirée.

Walt Disney World fits the bill if you are searching for a kid-friendly New Year celebration in the USA.

Magic comes to life at Orlando's Walt Disney World on New Year's Eve.

Fireworks light up the sky behind the famous castle, performances by your kids' (and your) favorite characters will provide endless entertainment, and the range of activities presented exclusively on New Year's Eve will have your kids charmed for a lifetime.

Not to mention, because school is out for New Year in America and thus, there are lots of people at the park, it gives your kids and you a chance to meet new friends and enjoy the company of others while on vacation.

Accommodation: Where to stay near Walt Disney World

Address: 1180 Seven Seas Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Visit Website

Also Read: Top 5 Things To Do In Walt Disney World, Florida

3: Los Angeles, California

This list of the very best New Year's Eve destinations in the USA would be amiss without mention of the City of Angels.

Firstly, everyone knows that Los Angeles is home to some lavish people who throw lavish parties.

Indeed, if you are looking for one of the best New Year parties in USA, you will likely find it in Los Angeles.

The events feature incredible music, epic food, and drink and are usually situated in some high-caliber venues. For example, the many rooftop clubs, restaurants, and bars around the city open up for New Year’s Eve special events with gorgeous views of the city’s lights.

Ever considered spending New Year’s Eve on a rooftop surrounded by the country’s most stylish and chic? If so, Los Angeles is the place to be.

Check out Harriet’s Rooftop NYE Party at the 1 Hotel West Hollywood if this sounds like your perfect New Year’s Eve celebration.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Los Angeles

Address: Los Angeles, CA

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

4: Las Vegas, Nevada

Any list of the best places in the US for an epic New Year celebration (or a celebration of any kind) will likely include Las Vegas, Nevada.

Las Vegas is chock-full of things to do on New Year's Eve; however, this suggestion comes with a disclaimer: Las Vegas on New Year's is crazy.

Firstly, any hotel in the city will have New Year’s events which often include performances, dining experiences, and activities.

If you are in the market for performance, check out the resident artists that year, as their New Year's Eve performance will likely be one-of-a-kind.

But remember to book early because these shows will fill up quickly. To mention just one: Cirque du Soleil on New Year's is magical.

Now, if you'd rather have an exciting dining experience, you could go to one of the city's dining in the dark restaurants, where you undergo the epic sensual experience of eating in the darkness.

Essentially, any event you are looking for on New Year’s will likely be happening in Las Vegas.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Las Vegas

Address: Las Vegas, NV

Also Read: Things to Do in Las Vegas On New Year's Eve

5: Atlanta, Georgia

If nothing rings in the new year to you like football, then Atlanta, Georgia, is your place to be.

The Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl is a huge college football event featuring some of the country's best, like Florida State, LSU, and Georgia.

This New Year's Eve sporting event first began in 1968 and has been a staple in the city ever since.

Again, if you're hoping to attend the Peach Bowl, you'll have to be sure to secure your tickets well in advance of New Year's Eve, as this is an annual event that most people wait all year for!

If football isn't your cup of tea, Atlanta still has incredible parties, events, concerts, and dining on New Year's, so the city is a guaranteed great time regardless of your affection for sports.

There's always a party nearby in the Peach State as everyone waits for the 800-pound peace to drop. Nibble on hors d'ouevres with the Atlanta symphony or dance the night away at famous nightclubs like the Cosmopolitan Lounge.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Atlanta

Address: Atlanta, GA

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

6: Miami, Florida

Still not satisfied with the above best places for New Year in the USA; well, Miami never misses.

Miami is renowned for many things, including its art shows, glamorous venues, and turquoise views.

And these many things draw some of the coolest crowds in the country on New Year's Eve. In 2022, for example, Doja Cat and Alesso took the stage at Fontainebleau Miami Beach to give a dreamy performance.

While the W Hotel held one of the most fabulous New Year's Eve parties in the country, complete with an open bar, local DHs, and 360-degree views of Miami's skyline.

And if you're into fireworks, the city is ablaze with them all night long.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Miami

Address: Miami, FL

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Miami

7: New Orleans, Louisiana

New Year night in the USA lasts all night long in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Begin with the Allstate Sugar Bowl New Year's Eve Parade, which will walk the excited crowds through the city's stunning French Quarter.

Next, why not celebrate on a steamboat? The Steamboat Natchez New Year's Eve Extravaganza will take you back in time to one of the best parties you've ever been to, filled with lights, music, and elaborate costumes.

Now, if you’re a Bourbon drinker, New Orleans will knock your socks off.

The New Year’s Eve Bourbon Street Balcony Party will take you to the city’s best Bourbon spots.

With some of the city’s very best music, food, and fun, New Orleans will provide a night to remember – to say the least!

Accommodation: Where to stay in New Orleans

Address: New Orleans, LA

8: San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas, is an excellent spot to take your family for a fun-filled New Year's Eve in the USA.

San Antonio has ample activities designed to make New Year's Eve unforgettable for families.

One of these family activities is the Dave & Buster's Family New Year's Eve celebration, for which a ticket gets the whole family bottomless soft drinks, a buffet, and endless games in their arcade.

Plus, if you and your partner are looking for some time off from entertaining your kids, the arcade will have them entertained for hours while you two can enjoy a moment of relaxation.

If Dave & Buster's isn't your idea of a good time, then be sure to check out the Whataburger Zoo lights at the San Antonio Zoo, which will take your family through a beautiful, immersive light display.

Accommodation: Where to stay in San Antonio

Address: River Walk, San Antonio, TX 78205

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

9: Denver, Colorado

If you’re a Northerner and the best places to go for New Year in the USA need to include snow, Denver could be the right place for you.

If the answer to the question, "where to celebrate New Year in the USA?" must involve snow for you, then look no further than Denver.

Colorado is home to picturesque mountains, charming towns, and endless indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family.

Start your weekend by visiting some of the world-class art exhibitions around town, take advantage of the New Year’s Eve resort packages and make sure you make it to the firework show in the evening.

If your family is outdoorsy, then be sure to hike in the nearby forests and mountains.

If your family prefers the comfort of a pool-side margarita, check in to one of the fantastic resorts that can be found in and around town.

In short, Denver offers it all.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Denver

Address: Denver, CO

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Denver

10: Boston, Massachusetts

If you are looking to party, then Boston is your ticket.

Parties are ubiquitous across the lively city on New Year's Eve.

In part due to the many students living in the city and the colder weather, because of which indoor events are preferable, Boston has some top-of-the-line celebrations to offer.

Begin the evening with the Boston 80's themed New Year's Eve prom.

You can relive the glory days dressed in your best 80's outfit and dance to your favorite tunes under a disco ball and (of course) seemingly endless confetti.

If the '80s weren't your ideal decade, then be sure to hit up the Resolution Ball, where you can partake in a full-course Tuscan dinner and soak up all the champagne you've ever dreamed of with some of Boston's finest.

Alternatively, check out the city’s parades, fiestas, and fireworks.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Boston

Address: Boston, MA

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Boston

11: San Francisco, California

If your idea of the best new year celebrations in the USA includes waterfront views, the charms of a stylish city, and the excitement of world-class entertainment, then San Francisco, California, has you covered.

One offering that really distinguishes San Francisco from the other cities on this list is the New Year's Eve cruises.

Various hotels and venues set up gorgeous bay cruises that provide a glorious destination for any New Year's Eve enthusiast.

Ring in the new year with delicious food, fabulous entertainment, and of course, views of the San Francisco coastline (not to mention the postcard-worthy Golden Gate Bridge).

Accommodation: Where to stay in San Francisco

Address: San Francisco, CA

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Francisco

12: Honolulu, Hawaii

Looking to make a vacation out of your New Year’s Eve celebrations? Honolulu attracts tourists from around the world because of its stunning terrain, ocean views, and tropical weather.

Sea, surf, and sand are all included in this top New Year destination.

Check into a gorgeous hotel or rent a seaside Airbnb, and you'll find yourself in a little slice of heaven.

Most hotels in Honolulu offer special dinners for New Year's Eve, complete with fireworks shows and traditional music and dance.

Other spots throw grandiose beach parties with bonfires and night swimming.

The best part is that you can wake up on January 1st and dive into a beautifully refreshing ocean to kick off your new year.

Nothing beats a hangover like a day in the sea.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Honolulu

Address: Honolulu, HI

13: Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee, is a fantastic city any time of year; however, New Year's Eve in this country music hub simply outdoes itself.

We highly recommend Nashville if you are a music lover.

From the concerts that take place in the city's iconic venues to the more intimate shows in any dive bar in town, you'll hear voices and musical talent that will blow you away as the city attracts the very best.

If you're there for the day, then be sure to check out Nashville's music hall of fame and famous studios.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Nashville

Address: Nashville, TN

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Nashville

14: Chicago, Illinois

As a world-class city for culture, food, and art, Chicago is an excellent destination for anyone looking for a memorable New Year’s Eve.

Chicago, Illinois, boasts some of the most luxurious hotels and fine dining experiences in America.

At any of these fabulous hotels and restaurants, you will find spectacular events and menus explicitly designed to help you welcome the new year.

Get started in one of Chicago's mixology-inspired cocktail bars, then move along to one of the endless parties offered around the city with all the DJs and balloon drops you could ever want.

Plus, the Chicago public transport system offers free travel all night long on New Year's Eve, so you can stay out all night and skip the hefty cab fare when you're ready to hit the hay.

If you're looking for something more low-key, check out the light show in Lincoln Park's Zoo!

Accommodation: Where to stay in Chicago

Address: Chicago, IL

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago

15: Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Another one of the best places in the USA for New Year celebrations is Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Sure, you may hear Cape Cod and imagine a summer-exclusive destination; however, New Year in Cape Cod is a profoundly underrated experience.

Firstly, the fireworks show in Cape Cod is incredible.

Picture the sky being lit with gold and silver over a picture-perfect harbor as the clock strikes midnight.

The best part about a Cape Cod New Year is the various things to do at either end of the New Year's Eve celebrations.

Hiking, whale watching and glorious seafood meals are just a few unique experiences you will find in Cape Cod on December 31st.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Cape Cod

Address: Cape Cod, MA

16: Phoenix, Arizona

New Year's Eve in the USA is a pretty big deal, especially in Phoenix, Arizona.

The events planned in Phoenix for December 31st will surely blow any local or traveler away.

Check out the Gatsby's House New Year's Eve party if you're ready to dance from dusk to dawn.

This Great Gatsby-themed event takes place inside the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel and takes its cue from the energy of the roaring twenties: extravagance and dancing.

Be sure to dress up and prepare yourself for a night to remember.

If glitz and glam aren't your things, then you can mosey on to the Annual Flannel Ball.

Which (as it sounds) has a strict dress code: your favorite flannel shirt.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Phoenix

Address: Phoenix, AZ

17: Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas, is a fantastic city for several reasons, including its epic restaurants and fresh take on the southern style.

These many attributes make New Year's Eve in Austin a unique experience.

Various hotels offer deals for the days around New Year's Eve, which makes staying at a luxurious spot somewhat more attainable.

While themed events and set menus are offered all across the city.

If you're in Austin for the New Year, wander into one of the city's renowned speakeasy bars for a truly exhilarating experience – as any locals for suggestions for these!

Accommodation: Where to stay in Austin

Address: Austin, TX

Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Austin

18: Aspen, Colorado

Finding your ideal New Year’s Eve in the USA can be tricky if that ideal must include snow, skiing, and of course, the Après Ski cocktails.

Well, luckily, that idea comes to life in Aspen, Colorado.

With some of the finest mountains for skiing in the country, this spot simply had to make our list of best places for the new year in the USA.

Aspen draws people from around the globe because of its fantastic mountains, unparalleled views, and overall ski town energy.

Aspen is a glorious spot to be on New Year's, from fireworks shows to mountain-side concerts.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Aspen

Address: Aspen, CO

Also Read: The Best Things To Do in Aspen

19: Atlantic City, New Jersey

You may not have naturally considered Atlantic City, New Jersey, one of the best places to spend New Year in the USA, but if you are looking for a nightclub experience, then Atlantic City could be your ideal destination.

Atlantic City is home to many nightclubs filled to the brim on New Year's Eve because of its many concerts, themed events, and drink packages.

Atlantic City may be your ticket if you are ready to dance the night away.

Accommodation: Where to stay in Atlantic City

Address: Atlantic City, NJ

20: Washington, D.C.

Our final destination on this list of best places to go for New Year in the USA is Washington, D.C.

There are many great ways to celebrate the new year in our nation's capital.

If you're looking for patriotic excitement, try one of Washington's pub crawls, which will take you through some of the city's most historic spots for a night to remember.

Join the crowds at the National Mall for a spectacular fireworks display at midnight or get a group together and go bar hopping around Dupont Circle or Adams Morgan.

Whatever you do, make sure you have a great time and ring in the new year with style!

Accommodation: Where to stay in Washington DC

Address: Washington DC

Final thoughts on places to celebrate New Year in the USA

New Year's Eve in the USA has a long-lived tradition of being fun-filled and glitter-inspired.

This list of the top 20 cities to spend your New Year in USA was designed to offer some diversity (for those looking for a party and those looking for a family vacation) as well as a guaranteed excellent time.

Celebrate in style and start your New Year off on the right foot by living your best life as the clock strikes midnight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1: what are the most popular destinations for new year's eve, usa.

The first three most popular destinations for New Year’s Eve in the USA include New York City, Las Vegas and Miami.

2: Where is the biggest New Year's Eve party?

The biggest party in the USA on New Year’s Eve can be found in Las Vegas, Nevada. This party is organized at The Strip and includes dining experiences, live concerts, and fireworks.

3: What happens on New Year's Eve at Times Square?

On New Year's Eve in Times Square, a huge concert is held with various performers, and a countdown goes on until midnight, at which point there is a ball drop to signal the beginning of a new year. This event is televised and draws huge crowds to Times Square each year.

4: Is Las Vegas really good for New Year's Eve?

Las Vegas is good for New Year's Eve if you are looking for an elegant evening. But if you do not enjoy bright lights, loud music, and crowds, Las Vegas is not an ideal place for you on New Year's.

5: What are kid-friendly destinations for New Year's Eve?

Some of the kid-friendly destinations for New Year's Eve in the US include Walt Disney World, Florida, Honolulu, Hawaii, and San Antonio, Texas.

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Best Destinations To Celebrate New Year’s Around The World With Kids

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The New Year marks a very popular time of year to travel, and luckily for families, there are many kid-friendly destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! From relaxing on the beach in Aruba to watching the ball drop in Times Square, exploring Christmas markets in Prague, or enjoying centuries-old traditions in Kyoto, there are lots of unique options for families who want to travel this New Year’s. Here, we break down many of the top places worldwide to ring in another year with your family – from the traditional fireworks to the more bespoke cultural experiences. We focus on what makes the celebrations that time of year so special and link to other articles to help families round out a longer trip. Read on for inspiration on where to start a new year in a fun and exciting locale with your family! 

Best Destinations to Celebrate New Year’s with Kids in North & South America

From the Caribbean to the United States, families can enjoy all kinds of New Year’s celebrations in North and South America. Here are some of the best options! 

Aruba 

Photo Courtesy: Visit Aruba

Aruba takes a long-term approach to celebrating the New Year, making it one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. The country celebrates days in advance when they light firecrackers in the streets of Oranjestad to ward away evil spirits. Music, fireworks, and other celebrations are had across the island, which start earlier in the evening so younger children can enjoy them as well. The main show is best viewed from Flamingo Beach, so keep that in mind when booking your stay.

After the midnight fireworks, the uniquely Aruban tradition of Dande – a celebration of traveling musicians who bestow blessings for the New Year – involves local families filling the air with song. However, there is a more family-friendly daytime festival involved as well, leading up to the New Year. Finally, don’t miss spending a few days on some of the Best Beaches In Aruba For Families !

Read Next : 12 Things To Do In Aruba With Kids

Where to Stay in Aruba with Kids

If you want to stay at the best family resorts in Aruba, try either Playa Linda Beach Resort . Or, Marriott’s Aruba Ocean Club . Both are located within a short walk of the famous Hadicurari Beach and Palm Beach. We also suggest Barcelo Aruba , Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club , and The Ritz-Carlton Aruba . Since it’s one of the best places to visit in December and January with kids, there are more options perfect for the holidays on our list of 7 Best Family Resorts In Aruba (Includes All-Inclusive) !

Compare hotel rates on the Families Love Travel booking site! Membership is complimentary!

First Night in Boston offers families a full day of New Year’s activities to enjoy, set in one of the United States’ most historic cities. Performances, from puppet shows to ballet to rock bands and more, are free and open to all. There are two times for fireworks – one at 7 pm over Boston Common and one at midnight over Copley Square. This way, families with kids of all ages get to enjoy a good pyrotechnic display. Bundle up, head out, and see why Boston is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! 

READ NEXT : 26 Amazing Things to Do in Boston with Kids

Where to Stay in Boston with Kids

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Boston for families, we have a few suggestions. In Back Bay, book a room at the Fairmont Hotel Copley Plaza . Or, try The Four Seasons Hotel Boston or Westin Copley Place . In downtown Boston, stay at the Omni Parker House Hotel or the Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel . Families who want to stay by the water will love the Boston Marriott Long Wharf . For more information on Boston hotels, check out our list of the Best Hotels In Boston For Families !

Hilton Head, SC

While Hilton Head, South Carolina, is best known as a fantastic summer vacation spot for families, it’s also one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. The Sea Pines Resort provides an annual New Year’s Eve celebration, Golf Ball Drop , with children’s entertainers, food, live music, and more throughout the evening. The first golf ball drops for families with younger kids at 7 PM. Then, the night owls can ring in the New Year with another golf ball drop at midnight!

Where to Stay in Hilton Head with Kids

Families searching for a luxury stay may love the Montage Palmetto Bluff . There’s also Omni Hilton Head , which features three golf courses, a kayaking lagoon, and three outdoor pools. Disney fans will love a stay at Disney’s Hilton Head Resort . It is located less than a mile from Shelter Cove Harbour. Then, Marriott’s SurfWatch is ideal if you need apartment-style accommodations. Families also like the Inn & Club at Harbour Town .

Or, explore homes and condos in Palmetto Dunes and The Sea Pines Resort , among other options on our list of the Best Family Hotels in Hilton Head (All Parent-Recommended) !

New York, NY

Families can’t deny the allure of New York City around New Year’s Eve, especially with the famous Times Square ball drop! While this activity is for families with older kids and requires preparation to remain confined in a small area for the better part of a day, it certainly makes for a memorable bucket list experience. If New Year’s travels take your family to New York and you’re looking for less of a commitment, consider the Children’s Museum of Manhattan . Here, you can celebrate with a noon ball drop, or the NOON Year’s Eve experiences at the CAMP! store in Columbus Circle or Brooklyn.

Also in Brooklyn, late-night revelers will also love the live entertainment and New Year’s Eve fireworks in Prospect Park. It’s why this city makes the list of best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! 

Plus, don’t miss doing some of the Best New York City Christmas Activities With Kids !

Where to Stay in New York City with Kids

Need somewhere to stay in New York City with kids? In Lower Manhattan, we recommend the Millennium Downtown New York Hotel in the Financial District. Or, the trendy Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca. In Midtown Manhattan, try the Loews Regency New York or Omni Berkshire Place , which also has a Kids’ Club. Or, for a true luxury experience, visit the nearby St. Regis New York . Remember to check out other NYC hotels with pools and spacious suites .

Panama City Beach, FL

Beach ball enthusiasts will get their fill when they see 10,000 beach balls drop in celebration of the New Year in Panama City Beach, one of Florida’s best beaches for families ! This northwest Florida town starts its party in the early evening with live music and a street festival. A highlight is surely the 8 pm ball drop. It features thousands of inflatable beach balls. And is, perhaps, reason alone it may be one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. Those with older kids can keep the party going and watch a giant LED beach ball descend for the actual New Year, along with fireworks, at midnight. 

Look for a homestay in Panama City Beach here through Vrbo!

Rio de Janeiro

While Rio de Janeiro in South America is famous for Carnival, its New Year’s celebration – Reveillon – is equally a travel-worthy celebration. Copacabana Beach comes alive with an all-day beach party, culminating with an amazing fireworks display. Crowds not your style? Consider taking it all in by boat! Be sure to wear all white to fit in with the locals! And, bring your bathing suit as a tradition is to jump through seven waves at midnight head-on for good luck. It’s no wonder why Rio is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! 

Research your stay in Rio de Janeiro with Booking.com here!

San Diego, CA

There are several kid-friendly celebrations across San Diego , making it one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. Perhaps most iconic is a LEGO replica of Times Square. There is even an early ball drop and fireworks display among the rides and activities at LEGOLAND California .

In town, the younger set will appreciate noon-focused celebrations like at the Children’s Discovery Museum . Or, early evening fun at the Living Coast Discovery Center . Hotel Del Coronado has also been known to host a New Year’s celebration. Here, adults enjoy an evening out, and kids get a party of their own with dinner, games, and a sparkling cider toast at midnight. There’s also a separate hang-out space for teens.

READ NEXT : The Best 7-Day San Diego Itinerary with Kids

Where to Stay in San Diego with Kids

San Diego has so many family-friendly hotels! Situated on 400 sprawling acres, we recommend the Fairmont Grand Del Mar . It’s centrally located, kid-friendly, and even has four pools. Families who want to stay directly on the beach will love Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection By Hilton . It’s housed on a Victorian property and is only five miles from downtown San Diego. Read our list of best beachfront hotels in San Diego for more information !

Best Destinations to Celebrate New Year’s with Kids in Europe

If you want to immerse yourself in Medieval architecture, experience cozy Christmas traditions, and try some seasonal food, Europe is a fantastic option for your next holiday vacation. Keep reading to find out more! 

READ NEXT : 10 Best Places to Travel with Kids in Europe

Spain is undoubtedly a family-friendly destination, and Barcelona’s end-of-year celebration makes it one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. With so many activities to do in Barcelona with kids , there’s no problem keeping busy during the days. But, as the year winds down, the special celebrations begin. The (late) evening begins with a fountain show at the Montjuic fountain , followed by fireworks at Plaça Espanya. The tradition is to eat 12 grapes for good luck, one each time the clock chimes at midnight. Kids will have fun with that challenge!

Where to Stay in Barcelona with Kids

Looking for the best places to stay in Barcelona with kids? Once you’ve learned all about Barcelona with kids, it’s time to decide on a place to stay. Families love the Renaissance Barcelona Hotel , located in the heart of Eixample. If you want to stay near the beach, try Hotel Arts Barcelona , which has a pool for kids. Then, Leonardo Hotel Barcelona Las Ramblas has family rooms for 5 and 6 guests and an outdoor pool. Catalonia Ramblas also has a pool and rooms with a full bed plus bunk beds, ideal for a family of 4.

Other great hotels in Barcelona with kids are H10 Metropolitan , the Mercer Hotel Barcelona , Kimpton Vividora Barcelona , and El Palace Hotel .  Find more places to stay in Barcelona on this list of the Best Family Hotels In Barcelona By Neighborhood !

Scotland was recently named one of our top countries to travel to with kids , and now there’s a reason to go and ring in the New Year. Edinburgh’s multi-day New Year’s celebration, H ogmanay , is one of the largest and most famous celebrations in the world. But it’s more than a music festival; there are several family-friendly activities to enjoy. In particular, kids will appreciate the carnival rides, torchlight processions (purchase tickets in advance), and fun runs at Edinburgh Castle. To ring in the new year, there are fireworks and family entertainment well before bedtime, another reason Edinburgh is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. 

Book an exceptional homestay in Edinburgh through Plum Guide here!

In Germany, New Year’s celebrations are known as Silvester, and Munich in Bavaria makes for a magical setting for the fun. The whole city is alive for the holiday, from the central Marienplatz to Theresienwiese, the location of Oktoberfest, and many New Year’s Eve parties for adults later in the evening, and well beyond. Those families looking to get in a workout before the festivities can partake in one of the road races (5 or 10 km) during the day.

Then, the city’s fireworks provide the perfect way to end one year and start the next, and there are so many places to watch them. Some of the more family-friendly spots include Monopteros in the Englisher Garten and the Nymphemburg Canal. Add in many restaurants offering decadent end-of-year meals; you’ll see why Munich is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. 

Reserve your stay in Munich with Booking.com here!

You’ve heard the saying, “ Paris is always a good idea.” It may be an especially good idea during the holidays as it’s one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! The City of Lights shows off some of its top features during the New Year’s revelry, through a special midnight light show at the Arc de Triomphe and all the lights leading to it along the Champs-Élysées.

Then, the nearby Tuileries Garden Christmas Market , growing ever bigger year after year, offers French goods and treats, skating, a huge Ferris Wheel, other carnival rides, and more and adds to the festive atmosphere. No celebration in Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower . While there are no New Year’s fireworks at the landmark, the tower dazzles each evening, and December 31 st is no exception! Finally, be sure to add these Fantastic Things To Do In Paris With Young Kids to your itinerary.

Don’t miss eating at one of these 9 Amazing Places for Pastries and Desserts in Paris For Families !

Where to Stay in Paris with Kids

Families staying in Paris who want to stay near the Cathédrale Notre-Dame should check out Hôtel d’Aubusson . If you’d prefer to stay near attractions like the Champs-Élysees, Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower , book a room at the Four Seasons Hotel George V . There’s also The Shangri-La Paris is a ritzy hotel just a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower .

To find more options for your next stay in Paris with kids, check out these best Paris hotels For families or our article on Where To Stay In Paris By Neighborhood .

Prague comes alive during the holiday season, and New Year’s is no different, making it one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. Prague’s famous Christmas markets extend through the New Year in Old Town Square, making shopping a popular way to end one year and begin the next. Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square provide the closest views of a midnight fireworks display, though the river shores deliver both city and sky views. The fun continues on New Year’s Day with a projection mapping show that lights up buildings in Wenceslas Square at a family-friendly time in the evening. 

Reserve your room in Prague through Booking.com now!

It’s no surprise that Iceland is cold around the New Year, which is why the New Year’s Eve bonfires or Áramótabrennur – an old Icelandic tradition that dates back hundreds of years – is the perfect way for local and visiting families alike to celebrate. There are at least 10 locations to join the fun across Reykjavik, one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids.

If you brush up on some Icelandic, you can also catch the most anticipated television event of the year right before midnight, Áramótaskaup , which is a satiric look at the past year. And to make a full night of it, the fireworks throughout the city (for the people and by the people, if you will) extend the festivities through midnight and beyond! There are so many fun Things To Do In Iceland With Kids , so don’t miss adding more to your itinerary to celebrate.

RELATED : Best Tours + Experiences In Iceland For Families (Using Tripadvisor)

While Tallinn is the birthplace of the Christmas tree, it is also one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids! Wandering the quaint, historic Old Town area may be magic enough for the season, but many hotels and restaurants put on special New Year’s gala celebrations, the local tradition offering an extended meal celebrated with family and friends.

Then, the Christmas Market will still be in full swing, so families can find little stalls to shop for local crafts and foods. The night can culminate with a concert and the city’s light performance, best seen from Freedom Square (Vabaduse Väljak). After exploring the area, it’s a short boat ride to Finland , where you can take in all the magic of winter in Lapland, the home of Santa Claus, and a great viewing of the Northern Lights. 

Find great deals on lodging in Tallinn through Booking.com here!

Silvesterpfad , the official New Year’s celebration in Vienna , starts at the family-friendly time of 2 pm in the historic center, with six locations offering bands and DJs to sing and dance your way into the New Year. The ballroom dancing school even leads a public Viennese waltz! Booths dotted throughout sell warm beverages and food. Not to mention, lead pouring kits – an Austrian tradition that kids will surely enjoy. Melt a lead lucky charm like a pig or clover. And, after it solidifies in a bowl of cold water, the resulting figure predicts the implication for the year ahead. The largest fireworks display of the night is near Heldenplatz, adjacent to a family-favorite attraction, the giant Ferris Wheel.

And don’t forget about the New Year’s markets, which take the charm of Vienna’s Christmas markets and update the gifts with a New Year’s theme. With all the choices, it’s easy to see why Vienna is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. 

Receive great rates on lodging in Vienna through the Families Love Travel booking site! Compare rates today! Sign up is complimentary.

Best Destinations to Celebrate New Year’s with Kids in Austral-Asia

Whether a sunny holiday in Australia appeals to you most, or you’d rather spend New Year’s exploring Dubai, the Austral-Asia area encompasses a variety of incredible destinations for your next family vacation. Here are the best options! 

READ NEXT : Exploring Asia With Kids: Discover The Best Family-Friendly Destinations

Bangkok is known for being a top family-friendly destination in Asia , and it’s also one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. Asiatique , an open-air mall on the Chao Phraya River, offers a festive atmosphere. Kids can enjoy rides on the Ferris Wheel, karting, and other rides and fun activities. Meanwhile, adults will appreciate the special New Year’s menus offered by the restaurants and sweeping city views.

Then, Central World Square is home to the city’s main celebration, a 1,400-meter-wide eco-friendly multimedia fireworks display! It’s considered the “Times Square of Asia” so will be a crowded spot to take in all the fun, but surely an unforgettable street party. While Buddhists have their own New Year, a lot of temples have a ceremony for the Gregorian New Year, known as Suad Mont Kham Pi. These often go on throughout the evening and at midnight. 

Reserve your accommodations in Bangkok with Booking.com here!

Dubai is known for going all out, and New Year’s Eve is no exception. There’s not one, not two, but three major fireworks shows to watch – one each at the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah. Don’t worry, if you can’t make up your mind, you can catch all three via boat in the Arabian Gulf! And if midnight is a bit too far past bedtime, consider the Dubai Fountain shows at the base of the Burj Khalifa. They will certainly give kids a sense of wonder with light and water as the year winds down. Global Village also gets into the celebrations throughout the evening with the “night of seven midnights” fireworks displays from 8 pm to 1 am in honor of countries from China to Turkey ringing in the New Year.

Combined with all Dubai has to offer during the rest of the year, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids!

Where to Stay in Dubai with Kids

If you need somewhere to stay in Dubai with kids, we have some suggestions for your upcoming vacation to one of the best hot places to visit in December or January with kids! Try the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Residences Dubai , which has a Kids’ Club and spacious suites. For a secluded stay on the incredible Palm Jumeirah, book a room at Rixos The Palm Hotel and Suites Dubai .

Other options for families include The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , and Jumeirah Beach Hotel . For more options, read our list of the 12 Best Family Hotels in Dubai or 21 Best Beachfront Hotels In Dubai .

New Year’s, or Shougatsu, is an important time for a fresh start in Japan, with many traditions and beautiful celebrations for the family to enjoy. In Kyoto , the bells of the shrines and temples come alive. In fact, they ring all at once to bring in a New Year. Called the Joya no Kane ceremony, the bells chime 107 times and then a final 108 th time at midnight as, according to Buddhism, the number 108 is thought to be the number of desires people have.

While many residents head to their local temple, the Chion-in Temple and Yasaka Shrine are popular spots on New Year’s Eve for many. Don’t forget to fill up before heading out with a traditional New Year’s Eve meal of buckwheat noodles, as thin long noodles symbolize longevity. Consider a spot like Honke Owariya or Misoka-an Kawamichi-ya for toshikoshi soba (passing the year noodles). 

Combine it with other activities, such as skiing , and it’s sure to be an unforgettable trip! With such rich traditions and cultural experiences, it’s no surprise Kyoto is one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. 

RELATED : Best Ski Resorts In Japan For Families

A Singapore trip with kids is going to be a great adventure with its family-friendly activities , but there are many reasons why it’s a particularly good time to visit around the New Year. Marina Bay Sands is home to one of the city’s primary celebrations, an 80-minute light projection and fireworks extravaganza. Star Island at The Float at Marina Bay Sands hosts live performances, including a pre-fireworks and light show set by DJ Hello Kitty and a Sanrio-themed family area for extra fun. Tickets are required for the festivities. 

The Civic District holds free movie screenings, a flea market, a food bazaar, and more fun throughout the day to enjoy. Meanwhile, Universal Studios hosts its own New Year’s Eve celebration at the park, for families who love theme park experiences. And for a unique vantage point of the area for littles who can sit for a little while, the Singapore Flyer , one of the largest Ferris Wheels in the world, offers a 90-minute dining experience to end the year in style. 

Where to Stay in Singapore With Kids

Looking for the best places to stay in Singapore with kids? Families who want somewhere to cool down will love The Ritz-Carlton Singapore , which is set in Marina Bay and close to popular attractions. Or, check out the pools with water slides at Paradox Singapore Merchant Court at Clarke Quay . Then, families who want to escape to Sentosa Island can’t miss Shangri-La’s Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa !

Other hotels in Singapore for families include Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, Singapore , Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Beach Road , and Marina Bay Sands Singapore . Read our list of the best hotels in Singapore for families to find out more!

Sydney really knows how to throw a party as one of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. Its official New Year’s party is extensive, with three fireworks celebrations throughout the night centered on Sydney Harbour Bridge, light projections, and cultural observances across the evening. The event boasts 44 vantage points. This gives families options throughout the city! Plus, that doesn’t even consider all the companies offering options by boat! Can’t travel this year? They also livestream !

Given the festivities don’t get going until the evening, consider a day at the beach with a picnic, surfing, and games. Or start the celebration early with events and music early at Darling Harbour . 

Check and compare room rates on the Families Love Travel Booking site! Sign up today, it’s complimentary!

Cheers to the New Year!

We hope you enjoyed this round-up of the best destinations to celebrate New Year’s with kids. With so many unique traditions and exciting locales to explore around the world, your family will be spoiled for choice on where to set foot as one year turns into the next. Happy trails!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2023

Where to go in 2023, according to T+L editors — for a breath of fresh air, a big-city adventure, or a glimpse at the future of travel.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

With much of the world reopened, 2023 is shaping up to be the year travel officially bounces back. We made our list of the 50 best destinations for 2023 a little differently this year: We asked Travel + Leisure's editors where they want to go in the months ahead. Some are raring to get back to Japan, while others have the Trans-Bhutan Trail on their lists. Still more are planning a sail around Greenland, a wine-tasting trip on California’s central coast, and a visit to France’s next big wine region (which is, as it happens, tiny).

A few up-and-coming culinary destinations made our list, as did a remarkable piece of art, the size and scale of which boggles the imagination. While many of the team’s picks are remote, breathe-in-that-fresh-air kinds of places, our list doesn’t skimp on cities where the hustle and bustle is part of the fun.

But with so many choices now back on the map, there are as many styles of trips as there are places to explore. That’s why, for the first time in recent memory, we’ve broken our list of best places to go into categories.

The hope is that, whatever it is you’re after in the year ahead, you’ll find it in one of these 50 places. And who knows? We may just see you there.

— Edited by Paul Brady and Maya Kachroo-Levine

Destination by Category

For cultural riches, alexandria, virginia.

K. Summerer for Visit Alexandria

With postcard-perfect cobblestone streets and quick access to the wineries of northern Virginia , Alexandria is an easy city to love. But these days, the reason to go is to see how effectively the city is confronting its own history, as destinations across the American South grapple with the legacy of the Confederacy . Alexandria, which was founded as a tobacco port in 1749, was for decades of the 19th century the site of the country’s largest domestic slave trade . Today, the Freedom House Museum has three new exhibitions honoring the people who were forcibly brought here. Meanwhile, the African American Heritage Trail, which opened in 2020, follows the Potomac River and encompasses nearly 200 years of history at 11 stops, such as the Torpedo Factory , where many Black men and women worked during World War II. An extension of the route will debut in February 2023 with 20 new stops, including Waterfront Park, the port from which enslaved people were trafficked to places like New Orleans. At Jones Point Park, visitors can learn about Benjamin Banneker , an inventor, mathematician, and free African American from Maryland who was instrumental in the 1791 surveying team that determined the border of the new U.S. capital of Washington, D.C. (For an even deeper look at the city’s Black experience, book with Manumission Tours , which is run by a fourth-generation Alexandrian .) The city’s most elegant stay is Morrison House Old Town Alexandria, Autograph Collection , which was recently voted one of the best city hotels in the continental U.S. in T+L’s 2022 World’s Best Awards. A new Hotel AKA is slated to open in Old Town in winter 2023. — Liz Cantrell

Cairo and the Nile

Emli Bendixen

It’s almost here: After more than a decade of construction — to say nothing of the hype — the Grand Egyptian Museum may finally open, just a stone’s throw from the Great Pyramids of Giza, this spring. What to expect? More than 1 million square feet of exhibition space, treasures including a 40-foot-high statue of Ramses II, outdoor gardens, and an expansive plaza from which visitors can take in the desert surroundings. Meanwhile, a number of new and luxurious ships have started sailing the Nile: Among the best choices are the Viking Osiris , an all-veranda vessel carrying 82 passengers, and the opulent Sphinx from Uniworld Boutique River Cruises , which has 42 cabins swathed in marble and hand-carved wood, with beds dressed in fine Egyptian cotton sheets. The hotel scene is also, thankfully, getting a refresh with a new Mandarin Oriental slated for downtown Cairo in 2024; the forthcoming 200-room Four Seasons Hotel Luxor is scheduled to debut in 2025 — not that you should wait that long to see the ancient Valley of the Kings. — John Wogan

“City,” Nevada

City, 1970 – 2022 © Michael Heizer. Courtesy Triple Aught Foundation. Photo: Eric Piasecki

Even in a state known for its vast, empty landscapes, Basin and Range National Monument , about a two-hour drive north of Las Vegas, takes “remote” to a new level. The 704,000-acre preserve, created in 2015, provides endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping, and cycling; its desert valleys and mountain ranges are also dotted with Indigenous rock art sites. But the reason to go now is “City,” the single largest contemporary artwork in the world, which opened to visitors in September 2022. Made from dirt, rock, and concrete, the monumental open-air sculpture was more than 50 years in the making, a collection of mounds, depressions, and stelae conceived by the artist Michael Heizer . The endeavor — which was made possible by joint contributions from art institutions around the country, including LACMA and MoMA — will open to the public for the 2023 season by reservation only . The mile-and-a-half-long sculpture feels at once ancient and futuristic, a destination just as awe-inspiring as the natural one surrounding it. — John Wogan

Havana, Cuba

Brad Ogbonna

The can-you, can’t-you continues, but the Biden administration has made it a touch easier to visit Cuba as a result of its May 2022 relaxation of some restrictions on travel to the island. These days, Americans can go as part of a group tour or visit individually on a "support for the Cuban people" license, travel advisor Molly Layman told T+L. “It’s one of 12 authorized categories of travel to the island,” she said, adding that “it requires citizens to have a full-time schedule of activities that support the Cuban people, which is easily fulfilled through buying services from Cuban entrepreneurs, staying in local homes, dining in private restaurants, and booking cultural activities.” Those ready to take to the vibrant streets of Havana will also need a visa, said Layman, who works as director of operations at tour company Cuba Candela . Travelers can handle that, she said, “on the day of travel at the airport check-in desk or from a tour provider.” (The cost varies depending on where a visa is purchased but rarely exceeds $100.) While the hoops are undeniable, they may well be worth jumping through in the year ahead. — Christine Burroni

Tangier, Morocco

Issam Elhafti/Getty Images

For decades, this northern Moroccan city has attracted a stream of bohemian expats including, most famously, beat-generation writers Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. That’s how it cultivated a reputation as a place where foreigners went to live, rather than simply visit. But Tangier’s reputation could change this spring, thanks in part to the opening of Villa Mabrouka — British designer Jasper Conran’s second Moroccan property, which follows the 2018 opening of L'Hôtel Marrakech . The one-time private residence of fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, the hillside property has gorgeous views over the Bay of Tangier within walking distance to the city’s frenetic medina. Villa Mabrouka joins other newcomers, like the Museum of Contemporary Art , a space displaying work by regional artists, also called the Kasbah Museum, as it's housed in the renovated, 17th-century Kasbah prison. Also new on the proverbial block is the just-opened Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier , set on a refurbished, century-old estate near the old city. Anticipation is already growing for a recently announced Waldorf Astoria, a 115-room and 21-villa resort set to open in 2025. — John Wogan

Lakes Region, Turkey

Istanbul and Bodrum are both rightly popular, but U.S. travelers will find much to love in other pockets of this diverse country — including this inland part of southwestern Anatolia, which travel advisor Engin Kadaster predicts “will be very popular in the years to come.” Kadaster has been including the Lakes Region on more and more itineraries for her clients, and helped coordinate a story in T+L’s August 2022 issue that included destinations such as Isparta, the region’s largest city and a center of rose and lavender production, and the ancient hilltop city of Sagalassos. The region’s most famous feature — naturally — is a series of tectonic lakes, created by ancient earthquakes, in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, but it also holds many ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites. A blessed lack of mass tourism means that this isn’t a hot spot for luxury hotels, but cozy places like Eskiciler Konaği , a renovated century-old mansion near Lake Eğirdir, or Aliya Konak , a seasonal farmstay on a working lavender operation in Isparta, are warm and welcoming. Intrepid travelers can ditch the hotels altogether by camping along the new Pisidia Heritage Trail , a waymarked route that unites the Lakes Region’s splendid nature and unique history as it passes through ancient sites like Kremna, Adada, and Yazılı Canyon. — Hannah Walhout

The United Kingdom

Courtesy of Peninsula London

T+L’s Destination of the Year may be undergoing a once-in-a-lifetime period of transition, but some things never change. For one, the country’s historic cities will always be home to hotels that mix stately grandeur and affable service. This past summer saw the opening of Gleneagles Townhouse , a chic, urban outpost of the iconic Gleneagles resort, in the heart of Edinburgh; next year London will welcome the cool glam of the Peter Marino–designed Peninsula London . Of the U.K.’s many world-class museums, two have recently gotten upgrades: Glasgow’s Burrell Collection , a stunning assortment of international art and artifacts, and the Manchester Museum , which is dedicated to the natural sciences. The Factory , Manchester’s new cultural center, pays tribute to the famous record label behind '80s rock bands the Happy Mondays and New Order. Gourmands (and the just plain hungry) will want to sample the broad range of culinary delights at London’s new Arcade Food Hall at Battersea Power Station, the latest stage in the rehabilitation of the historic building. No visit to the U.K. is complete without venturing out into its peerless countryside, and Scotland’s first rewilding center, Dundreggan , is one noteworthy place to take it all in: Managed by charitable organization Trees for Life , this 10,000-acre estate on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Ness plans to open a visitor’s center by the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the new Two Toms Trail in Lancashire covers 25 miles and features some of England’s most stunning scenery. — Peter Terzian

Getty Images

The perennially popular city made headlines in 2022 for its day-trip entrance fee , which takes effect in January 2023. But why only go for the day? The Venice Architecture Biennale runs May 20, 2023 to Nov. 26, 2023, with global exhibits curated by Lesley Lokko, the first Black architect to organize the event. Architecture lovers will also want to visit the Procuratie Vecchie, the 16th-century building along St. Mark's Square. Though its façade is one of Italy’s most photographed, the public has only recently been allowed inside, after the completion of a five-year refurbishment led by David Chipperfield Architects . Those looking for nostalgic luxury should plan to arrive in the second half of the year, with their bags packed for a train trip: Belmond’s iconic Venice Simplon-Orient Express will unveil two newly restored carriages from the 1920s and ‘30s in June, with opulent suites modeled to mirror the landscapes of Europe. — Nina Ruggiero

For the Food — and Wine

Courtesy of Four Seasons

It may have a reputation as a stopover city, but Athens deserves a closer look — and at least a few nights — in the year ahead. Not far from the Piraeus port , where travelers hop both domestic ferries and cruise ships that criss-cross the Mediterranean, the Athens Riviera has seen a surge of development. Four Seasons Astir Palace , which opened amid the pandemic, has a private beach on the sparkling Saronic Sea and two spaces designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki, including a midcentury modern cocktail bar and Pelagos restaurant, which has already earned its first Michelin star. In the spring of 2023, One&Only Aesthesis will open just a few miles away, also along the waterfront. Next door is the brand-new Experience Park, with trails, fitness classes, fountains, a Zen garden, and bountiful native plants and flowers; it’s part of an $8-billion waterfront green space called The Ellinikon , on the former site of the city’s international airport, that’s still under development. In central Athens, the 2022 opening of the 43-room Xenodocheio Milos hotel in the Pláka neighborhood brings a bit of cosmopolitan verve, from the team behind international restaurant brand Estiatorio Milos . And while the Odeon of Herodes Atticus on the Acropolis isn’t new — the ancient amphitheater first opened about 1,900 years ago — it will bring back a full schedule of shows in 2023 after a pandemic-era slowdown. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Central Florida

Courtesy of Small World Vacations

This fall, Hurricane Ian took 81 lives and caused $60 billion in damage across Florida. While the hard-hit southwestern part of the state continues to recover, Visit Florida president and CEO Dana Young said in October that other regions are ready to welcome travelers back. Central Florida in particular is worth a closer look, thanks to its ever-growing hospitality scene. Orlando and Tampa recently won a combined 14 Michelin accolades in 2022, when the guidebook publisher released its first-ever guide to Florida restaurants. The area’s family-friendly draws are better than ever: Disney’s recently opened, highly immersive Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser is a two-night adventure that takes themed entertainment to the next level by allowing guests to eat, sleep, and breathe Star Wars with lightsaber training, out-of-this-world dining (blue shrimp, anyone?), and a trip to Batuu at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Meantime, Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary celebrations continue through March 2023, with limited-time eats, nighttime spectaculars, and festive décor. In Tampa, the latest Edition Hotel just opened with a sprawling rooftop pool club and restaurant from chef John Fraser. And getting both to and around Central Florida is easier than ever, with the recent opening of Orlando International Airport’s new 15-gate Terminal C and Brightline rail service connecting Orlando to South Florida destinations including Miami and West Palm Beach beginning in 2023. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Jura, France

Guillaume Megevand

There’s a tiny French region just west of the border with Switzerland that’s producing some big, big wines. Thing is, only a tiny fraction of those bottles ever make it to the U.S., as T+L recently reported . That means you’ve got to go to the Jura — preferably before everyone gets wise to the area’s seven Appellations of Controlled Origin (AOCs) . Among serious oenophiles, word is already spreading about the vin jaune, “yellow wine,” made from native savagnin grapes and aged in the Jura’s distinct sous voile style, in which the wine matures “under a veil.” Not that wine is the only draw. The Jura also boasts a comté cheese trail — as if the région weren’t French enough — that connects no fewer than 150 fromageries and dairy farms. Hiking in the Jura Mountains, through Baume-les-Messieurs village and to the Hérisson waterfalls , is equally enticing, particularly as an antidote to all the wine- and cheese-focused sightseeing. Most surprising, perhaps, is just how accessible this under-the-radar area can be. Getting to the Jura takes two hours from the French capital by high-speed train , departing from Paris’s Gare de Lyon. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

San Luis Obispo County, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL/Acacia Productions

It’s time to stop sleeping on “SLO.” Once considered a quick Pacific Coast Highway stopover for those visiting Hearst Castle — which reopened this past spring 2022 after a two-year closure — the central coast county is now a draw in its own right. SLO’s seven cities, including Morro Bay, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, and San Luis Obispo, are all buzzing, and the area just earned official American Viticulture Area (AVA) recognition in 2022, thanks to more than 200 wineries, many of which are family owned . Two new Nomada Hotel Group properties opening in 2023 will welcome the inevitable influx of oenophiles: Farmhouse, a collection of 26 rustic-chic cottages with fire pits and hammocks, arrives in January; while River Lodge, a mile from the Paso Robles wine trail, is slated for May. Also being reimagined under Nomada is the Gold Rush–era Pozo Saloon , reopening in the town of Santa Margarita in August with outdoor soaking tubs, live music, trails for hiking and horseback riding, and a glamping site. Paso Robles just notched its first Michelin star ( Six Test Kitchen ), while San Luis Obispo’s SLO Public Market will welcome two new restaurants, All Good Grill and Todo Bueno , in 2023. Nature lovers should make a beeline for the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove : The insects were recently put on the endangered list, but this spot still draws over 10,000 annually. — Nina Ruggiero

Victoria, Australia

Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Australia has reopened, and this southern state is a particularly appealing corner of the country these days, thanks to hot springs resorts that are poised to make it the next big wine-and-wellness destination: Alba Thermal Springs and Spa on the Mornington Peninsula was the first to open in September 2022, with pools powered by solar and a commitment to achieving climate-positive operations. Metung Hot Springs in East Gippsland is set to follow in late 2022, with updated facilities in an area long known for its thermal waters. Phillip Island Hot Springs , which distinguishes itself with several saltwater features, plans to open in early 2023. Out on the Mornington Peninsula — a destination long popular for its world-class wineries — the InterContinental Sorrento began accepting reservations this past August 2022. Melbourne, Victoria’s appealing capital city, is also expecting new openings, including the intimate, seven-suite Hotel Vera Ballarat by year’s end, followed by the highly anticipated Ritz-Carlton Melbourne , set to open in 2023 in Australia’s tallest tower. Qantas is making it easier to get there, too: By December 2022, the airline will have four nonstop flights a week connecting Dallas and Melbourne, a welcome bridge between Victoria and the middle of the U.S. — Sarah Bruning

For Big-city Thrills

Jonathan Filskov/Getty Images

The eternally cool city will highlight its prowess with all things design, as the official UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. Venues across Copenhagen — contemporary parks, starchitect-designed skyscrapers, even typically humdrum infrastructure like playgrounds — will host events and visitors for a look at the future of the urban environment. One highlight will be the Copenhill Power Plant, the cleanest waste-to-energy plant in the world — that’s also the site of an artificial ski slope. “We’re going to do a lot of open-house events where 50 different venues are going to be open to the public that are usually closed to visitors,” said Copenhagen’s city architect Camilla van Deurs, who mentioned as examples churches; bridges; and the Danmarks Nationalbank, the central bank building planned in part by Danish design legend Arne Jacobsen. “Superkilen,” van Deurs said, “is a playground for kids and adults — and a cultural hub in the middle of Nørrebro, the most ethnically mixed neighborhood in Copenhagen.” New places to stay in the city also deliver a signature blend of modernism and hygge: Find it at the single-suite Kaj Hotel , which floats on a canal near Copenhagen Opera House, or the colorful new 25 Hours Hotel Copenhagen . — Tim Latterner

Lance Childers/Houston First

The 2020 opening of the Kinder Building, the latest addition to the Museum of Fine Arts Houston , cemented the city’s spot among true international arts destinations. The recent reopening of the Rothko Chapel , after a $35-million renovation, has only reinforced that reputation. Today, a wealth of new ventures is poised to raise the profile of Texas’s largest city in other categories as well. Opening next year, the JMK5 Arena will transform a disused racetrack into a 12,500-seat concert stadium poised to rival the venues of Vegas. It arrives on the heels of the relatively more intimate 713 Music Hall , which has attracted artists ranging from Judas Priest to Lil Nas X. The Houston Zoo is undergoing a much-delayed expansion that will include a Galápagos Islands–themed exhibit, which will feature an underwater tunnel and a penguin habitat. And the Houston Botanic Gardens , which opened in 2020, features 132 acres of diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to prairie. — Peter Terzian

Courtesy of Rosewood Villa Magna

The Spanish capital may finally, thankfully, be shaking off its reputation as the country’s somewhat stuffy business hub. A flurry of tony hotel openings throughout the city has helped, by bringing plenty of personality to what had been a staid scene. It began in 2021 with the arrival of the Mandarin Oriental Ritz ; Rosewood Villa Magna ; and Santo Mauro, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Then came the Edition in April 2022 . Breathing new life into the former Monte de Piedad de Madrid building, the hotel has 177 rooms, 21 suites, and two penthouses, plus two restaurants with food from chef Enrique Olvera and the culinary team behind Mexico City’s acclaimed Pujol . Elsewhere in Madrid, an already electric food scene has only gotten better — particularly in the glamorous Salamanca neighborhood and architecture-rich Chamberi district — with new offerings representing everything from Middle Eastern falafel and Argentinian asado to Spanish-Indian fusion and globally inflected vegan fare. — Sarah Bruning

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Welcome to the new Nashville. The city’s tourism renaissance is being fueled, in part, by a slew of just-opened hotels, including a Conrad , 1 Hotel , and a Soho House . (A Four Seasons just popped up in the bustling SoBro neighborhood, too.) The newly redesigned Hermitage Hotel , meanwhile, now has the first Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant in the South. The Fifth + Broadway complex has new outposts of old favorites, like fried chicken staple Hattie B’s , and the expansive Assembly Food Hall has dozens of choices, including bars, plural. That inimitable Nashville energy can still be found on Broadway, at honky-tonk bars that go until all hours, but there’s also Justin Timberlake’s sexy Twelve Thirty Club or live events like CMA Fest , which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023. Getting there has never been easier, thanks to low-cost carriers such as Breeze Airways and Southwest, both of which have recently added more flights from both coasts, not to mention places like Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Forget the notion that Steel City is just a town for football and factories. The metropolis is working on new cultural destinations that can’t be missed: While the next lunar lander is currently being built in Pittsburgh, the Moonshot Museum , which opened in October 2022, is putting on display mankind’s history of getting to and exploring the lunar surface. The Carnegie Museum of Art is hosting its 58th Carnegie International Exhibition, a huge temporary show of both historical and contemporary art which runs through April 2, 2023. The childhood home of playwright August Wilson has been restored and turned into a museum, complete with studios for arts programming. The city also has a new spate of hotels and bars drawing crowds, like the modern-chic Joinery Hotel Pittsburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton and The Industrialist, Autograph Collection in the Arrott building, one of the city’s first skyscrapers. Across the river in Allentown, Bottlerocket Social Hall is the perfect place to post up with locals and, yes, watch the game. — Tim Latterner

San Francisco

Ryan White/Parks Conservancy

Despite the so-called national conversation, the apocalypse has not yet come to San Francisco. True, this city had the most extreme wealth divide of any in California in 2020, and the seams here can be especially visible. But all the reasons SF shines — the arts, the nature, the dim sum, the sourdough — haven’t gone anywhere. And a slate of recent infrastructure and cultural projects show that many in the city are working to make it a better place to live and a more compelling destination to visit. The new Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco walks the walk of its focus on equity: the museum is completely free and has opted against a permanent collection in order to direct more funds to artists and staff. The city’s urban national park unit, the Presidio of San Francisco , recently gained 14 acres with the opening of the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a green space designed by James Corner Field Operations, the lead firm for New York City’s High Line, which incorporated input from more than 10,000 residents. Another massive community-led park and mixed-use development is underway in India Basin , with sustainability and affordable housing as stated core values. The hospitality scene is also on the come up: 1 Hotel San Francisco , The Line SF , and Beacon Grand (formerly the Sir Francis Drake) have all opened in the past six months, and Auberge Resorts Collection is slated to debut a new hotel in the Hearst Building in 2023. — Hannah Walhout

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

American travelers can finally get back to the South Korean capital after years of pandemic restrictions — and there’s plenty to catch up on. The city’s arts scene is buzzing, thanks to new venues such as Konig Gallery , not to mention the announcement from Seoul Museum of Art that three new wings will launch by 2024. (An added boost came from Seoul hosting its first edition of Frieze this past September, during which many commenters asked if K-art may well be the next K-pop.) Meanwhile the destination has seen a number of new hotels open, including the surprisingly trendy Fairmont Ambassador Seoul and Josun Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Seoul Gangnam , with its sweeping views of the globally famous district and stunning public spaces, including 1914 Lounge & Bar. — Tim Latterner

For Moments on the Water

Cape verde, the gambia, ghana, and guinea-bissau.

Arnau Ferrer

Though Ghana has, in recent years, surged in popularity as a destination for American visitors , particularly Black Americans , West Africa remains unfamiliar to many. One solution may be the innovative West Africa Archipelago cruises that Hurtigruten Expeditions aims to launch in November 2023. These two-week trips, aboard the line’s 180-passenger Spitsbergen , will stop in ports in four countries, with a huge array of activities on the expedition schedule: visits to historically important sites including Gorée Island ; wildlife-watching forays to spot hippos and manatees; and adventures such as scaling volcanoes and scrambling across lava fields. Though some cruise lines occasionally stop in West African ports, Hurtigruten’s deep focus on the region represents a step change — one that’s driven by passenger demand, said Asta Lassesen, the CEO of Hurtigruten Expeditions. “These islands are not as known as our other destinations, but they are teeming with unique wildlife, different cultures, and offer completely different experiences than you’d find in a traditional cruise destination,” Lassesen told T+L. — Paul Brady

Coastal Ecuador

Courtesy of Kontiki Expeditions

Many travelers know the historic capital city of Quito and the incredibly biodiverse Galápagos Islands , but now's the time to visit Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coastline. From surf towns like Montañita to the preserved beaches and cloud forest of Machalilla National Park, coastal Ecuador is packed with outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Kontiki Expeditions unlocks the region with eight-day yacht cruises that visit five of the country’s 24 provinces, hitting destinations including Isla de la Plata and Salinas. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Kontiki Expeditions operates an intimate ship with just nine staterooms, refined outdoor and indoor spaces, and a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. (Guests can book an individual room, or charter the entire 18-passenger yacht.) Getting there has gotten smoother, too: U.S. airlines including American, JetBlue, and Spirit now offer direct flights to Guayaquil, from which Kontiki Expeditions trips depart. — Elizabeth Rhodes

The Explora I

Courtesy of EXPLORA I

Just don’t call it a cruise: Upstart travel company Explora Journeys describes its itineraries as “ocean journeys,” nevermind the fact they’re aboard the newly built, 461-suite Explora I . The vessel is slated to hit the water in July 2023, with trips in the Mediterranean that visit popular cruise destinations such as Barcelona and Civitavecchia, near Rome, as well as lesser-visited ports including Patmos, Greece, and St.-Tropez, France. “It’s a new style of ocean travel that connects you with the things that are important,” Explora CEO Michael Ungerer told T+L. “There’s a craving to learn something new and make authentic connections without leaving your tried and tested luxury environment and services behind.” Indeed, life aboard won’t be monastic: Explora I will have 18 restaurants and bars and a massive spa, among other luxuries. Still, should all that ocean journeying become a bit too wearying, guests can always retreat to their suites, all of which have private verandas. In fact, when it debuts, Explora I will have the most space per passenger of any vessel anywhere. — Paul Brady

Antarctica is so last year. While Greenland may not have penguins, it does promise plenty of beautiful landscapes and seemingly endless horizons. The newly christened National Geographic Resolution will sail the Eastern shore of Greenland in June 2023, with opportunities to explore the Rømer Fjord depending on conditions. Ponant has a dozen distinct itineraries scheduled for 2023, including a number of round trips from Kangerlussuaq, in Western Greenland, that explore Baffin Bay. The brand-new Seabourn Venture, the line’s first expedition ship, will also be there in 2023; one particularly compelling August itinerary starts in Iceland, spends nearly three weeks along Greenland’s coast, then continues through the Northwest Passage before wrapping in Anchorage, Alaska. More conventional operators, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, are making the polar destination a fixture, too. The Seven Seas Navigator will visit Prince Christian Sound and make calls in Nuuk and Paamiut on a June 2023 sailing between New York City and Reykjavik. — Paul Brady

Hvar, Croatia

Goran Stimac/Getty Images

Those seeking a brighter 2023 will find it on Hvar: This Dalmatian Coast island calls itself the sunniest in Croatia. That means plenty of time for cycling more than 100 miles of bikeable terrain or kayak trips to secluded beaches. At night, those clear skies make for incredible stargazing: Jesla, on the island’s north shore, was named the first International Dark Sky Community in Southern Europe in 2022; and Moeesy , the island’s newest luxury hotel, has one room with an over-the-bed skylight for bedtime viewing. The town of Velo Grablje’s 14th-century charm peaks in July, when the lavender festival blooms with food, drink, and family-friendly activities all centered around the fragrant Mediterranean plant. And in Hvar proper, the harborside Riva Marina hotel reopened in June 2022 with refreshed waterfront terrace suites and a new restaurant and bar concept focused on local ingredients. Just down the block is the island’s first sustainable hotel , Beach Bay , which opened this past summer 2022 with an off-grid solar power system and a commitment to honor UNESCO’s Sustainable Travel Pledge . — Nina Ruggiero

The Path of Totality

©StudioPonant/Laure Patricot

A total solar eclipse, in which the moon blocks the sun and plunges the Earth into momentary darkness, is a “relatively common” phenomenon, NASA heliophysicist Dr. Michael Kirk told T+L. The trick is that most eclipses happen over water or in extremely remote places — which is why spotting the next one, on April 20, 2023, will be all about the chase. The upcoming path of totality will cross the Indian Ocean, graze Western Australia, then sweep across Indonesia and East Timor into the Pacific; astro-enthusiasts can chart its full course with the Totality app . That means the best way to catch the show will be to board a ship , such as the 188-passenger Le Lapérouse, for a Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys cruise from Bali, Indonesia, to Broome, Australia. The new Indonesia-based charter yacht Celestia will also be sailing around the edges of totality, making visits to the islands of Komodo National Park, the Moluccas, and Raja Ampat. The very best odds for viewing, said NASA’s Kirk, will be in Western Australia, where “the Exmouth Peninsula, Barrow Island, and the sea in between should have clear skies.” Eclipse chasers could drive the 750 miles from Perth to Cape Range National Park on the Ningaloo Reef–fringed Exmouth, but Tropical Sails Corp’s Pacific Explorer , which can take you there from Perth on a five-day Indian Ocean sail, seems a far more pleasant journey. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

For Fresh Air and Nature

Courtesy of Pal-Arinsal Ski Resort

This tiny European country, which at 181 square miles is smaller than Chicago, could soon turn into one of the world’s biggest ski destinations. The mountainous country, situated between France and Spain, has long been known for its reliable December-to-April conditions thanks to its high-altitude perch in the Pyrenees. But now, for the first time, three Andorra ski areas have been added to the Ikon Pass , putting a collective 7,600 acres of downhill terrain across 215 runs and 123 lifts into play for holders of the global lift ticket. At the same time, the three destinations of Grandvalira , Ordino Arcalís , and Pal-Arinsal (or, collectively, the Grandvalira Resorts Andorra ) will be available on a single local Andorra Pass , which starts at about $50 a day, a bargain by any big-mountain standards. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a newly launched Nord Pass, a multi-day ticket that works at both Ordino Arcalís and Pal-Arinsal for less than $40 per day. So, while these affordable mountains remain a bit of a challenge to reach — Grandvalira can be a four-hour drive from Barcelona — the days of smaller crowds may soon be a thing of the past. — Jamie Aranoff

Asheville, North Carolina

Tim Robison

This flannel-clad city in the Blue Ridge Mountains checks all the boxes, with year-round outdoor activities, sophisticated dining, and easy access, whether you’re driving or flying. (Asheville Regional Airport is on pace for a record-breaking 2022 , with service from 25 destinations.) But the year ahead offers more reasons to visit, starting with some cool new places to stay: Wrong Way River Lodge has a collection of A-frame cabins along the French Broad River that are perfect for white-water rafters. AutoCamp Asheville , another glamping-esque abode with Airstream campers, is slated to open by mid-2023. Downtown, the new Restoration Hotel promises a properly plush stay; its sister property in Charleston consistently ranks in T+L's World's Best Awards . (For those who’d rather be even closer to nature, The Glamping Collective is a newly opened, 160-acre site with domed pods and glass cabins situated a short drive from the city.) Asheville’s food scene has fresh energy from S&W Market , Asheville’s first food hall and the brainchild of award-winning chef Meherwan Irani. For all that’s new, visitors shouldn’t skip the old standbys: French Broad Chocolates is a local fave that’s since gone national, and Battery Park Book Exchange is the prime spot for a late-night glass of Champagne amid dusty bookshelves. — Samantha Falewée

Aysén, Chile

Stefan Ruiz

Chile’s Aysén region lies between two popular destinations — Torres del Paine National Park and the Lake District — with a captivating landscape of hanging glaciers, magnificent fjords, pristine lakes, and jagged peaks. Yet this 41,000-square-mile swath in northern Patagonia — the least populated in Chile — remains largely unexplored by visitors, in part because of its topography. But now, several outfitters and organizations, including Chile’s Route of Parks , are developing more itineraries and ecotourism routes for the non-mountain-scaling adventure traveler, with less-daunting activities like kayaking, hiking, and biking. Not long ago, travel company Explora opened a lodge in Aysén’s Patagonia National Park (working with nonprofit Rewilding Chile to support conservation and educational efforts) and launched eight- to 12-day trips that make travel across the region convenient, with flights, accommodations, and activities included. Factor in loosened COVID-19 restrictions and a newly elected president (the country’s youngest in history) as additional reasons to go now. Then there’s the continually growing partnership between Delta Air Lines and Latam, which allows for mutual lounge access and easy nonstop flights from Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City to Santiago, which is just a short connecting hop from Coyhaique, the gateway to Aysén. — Alisha Prakash

The Hudson Valley, New York

Andre Maier

Yes, the stretch north of New York City and south of Albany, along the banks of the lordly Hudson River, has been attracting enterprising former urbanites — as well as savvy travelers in search of charming towns and idyllic countryside — for the past century or so. But its transition from quasi-rustic to quietly glam marks a new and intriguing chapter. Next summer, The Ranch Hudson Valley , an offshoot of the West Coast’s rigorous retreat The Ranch Malibu, will open on a grand estate built by financier J.P. Morgan (as a gift for his daughter’s marriage to Alexander Hamilton’s great-grandson) and will offer multi-day programs to revive weary New Yorkers. Meanwhile, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection , a property with 60 freestanding cabins and cottages, will highlight the pastoral side of the region, with a farm-to-table restaurant and 140 acres of orchards and wildflower gardens. The region’s reputation for top-notch cuisine continues with the upscale tavern fare at Merchants Social in Hudson and Stissing House in Pine Plains, the Southern-inflected Darlings in Tilson, and the sweet fantasia of the Catskills Chocolate Co. in Catskill. (Longtime cheesemongers Talbott and Arding have recently moved to a beautiful new space in Hudson, too.) But don’t forget to leave room for culture. In Catskill, Foreland is a self-billed kunsthalle that extends across three 19th-century mills with exhibition spaces and artist studios. And the beloved sculpture park Storm King Art Center is getting a $45-million overhaul that includes an extensive new visitors center. — Peter Terzian

Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia

Thomas Retterath/Getty Images

“Zambia is a destination so many people miss,” said travel advisor Leora Rothschild . “The country’s Lower Zambezi National Park is one of my favorite destinations anywhere. Having a safari on a river adds a dynamic element,” she notes, since being on the water offers a different perspective than travelers get while on a game drive or in camp. Among the best places to take in this wildlife-rich destination is at one of its newest lodges , the luxurious eight-suite Lolebezi , which African Bush Camps opened inside the park and on the banks of the river this past June. It’s an ideal base from which to explore Lower Zambezi, which sits opposite Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to what the agency calls its “ dramatic landscape ” and “huge herds of elephant and buffalo.” Though remote, this corner of Zambia has recently gotten a bit easier to access, as pandemic-era travel regulations have loosened. Air Botswana announced in May 2022 that, following a two-year hiatus, it would relaunch flights from Gaborone, Botswana to Lusaka, Zambia. — Samantha Falewée

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Tourism PEI/Sander Meurs

As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island might get overlooked in favor of the country’s bigger, badder destinations for outdoor thrills. But this tiny island — known to many as the setting of L.M. Montgomery’s beloved “Anne of Green Gables” series — packs a punch. Here, you’ll find rugged cliffs, red-sand beaches , and a surprisingly robust golf scene, with 27 courses. Perhaps the biggest draw for adventurous travelers right now is the Island Walk , a 435-mile trail that opened in 2021 . Tracing the entire coastline, it passes through dozens of small towns and fishing villages. Walkers can start and end at any point, but the entire loop would take about 32 days, assuming a pace of 12-15 miles a day. Not that you’ve got to be hardcore to enjoy the trail: Towns and villages along the route have plenty to offer even non-hikers, such as the relatively new Slaymaker & Nichols , a cozy inn and gastropub in Charlottetown, the provincial capital. Classic PEI experiences endure, such as the seafood-focused, multi-course “ culinary experience ” from celebrity chef Michael Smith at the Inn at Bay Fortune . — Liz Cantrell

Stephanie Vermillion

When high-speed internet was installed at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak, this past August, it was just the latest example of the new era dawning in Tanzania. The leader of the country’s changing face is President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first woman of color and the first Muslim to lead this country, who took office in 2021. “I never expected that one day I would be president,” President Hassan told PBS . Not that she’s wasting any time. Since taking power, she’s devoted herself to strengthening infrastructure, women’s businesses, education, health care — she received her COVID-19 vaccine on live television to encourage others to get immunized — and sustainable travel. This summer, the Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha National Park opened in partnership with the Tanzania National Parks Authority , and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute ; Selous Safari Company recently refreshed its six-suite private reserve on Fanjove Island, a jumping off point for “marine safaris” by dive boat or kayak. — Samantha Falewée

Uttar Pradesh, India

Luis Dafos/Getty Images

Pummeled by the pandemic, India suffered through a grim 20-month closure, only reopening to travelers at the end of 2021. However, at long last — and with COVID-19 cases now under control thanks to large-scale vaccination programs that have delivered more than 2 billion doses — 2023 is primed to be the year visitors return to this soul-stirring country in full force. While many travelers will opt for Rajasthan’s royal palaces and desert jewels, there’s good reason to discover Uttar Pradesh on your next trip. India’s fourth-largest state is home to classic attractions including the Taj Mahal, in Agra, and the Ganges River ghats of Varanasi, the nation’s holiest city. But the new draws here include Vana, a wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills of Dehradun. The resort, which is now managed by the World’s Best Award–winning hospitality company Six Senses, has rooms and suites that prioritize the lush landscape with balconies and terraces overlooking the surrounding forest and gardens, offering a true breath of fresh air. — Alisha Prakash

For Beach Vibes

Patrick Michael Chin

Already a favorite weekend getaway for East Coasters, Bermuda will become even easier to get to in 2023. American Airlines resumed flights to the island from New York City's John F. Kennedy International in November, which the carrier had paused in the early days of the pandemic. Upon arrival at L.F. Wade International, travelers are now greeted in a new $400-million terminal with automated immigration gates and preclearance for U.S.-bound passengers — plus unexpected extras like a putting green and an outdoor nature trail. Bermuda’s resort stock is on the rise, too: Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa recently debuted a top-to-bottom renovation, adding villas and a Bermudian outpost of Sunken Harbor Club, the tropical cocktail bar above Brooklyn, New York’s wildly popular steakhouse Gage & Tollner. The St. Regis Bermuda is another high-end hotel option, which opened in 2021 with the nation’s first casino and incredible views of Fort St. Catherine. The island recently rolled back all COVID-19 entry requirements, but the Atlantic country’s  remote work program  — which launched in July 2020 and allows for stays up to one year — is still running for anyone looking to make its pink-sand beaches a new home base. — Liz Cantrell

Cayman Islands

Warren Fleming-Hollinger/Getty Images

It just keeps getting easier to visit the Caymans. As of fall 2022, Cayman Airways flies nonstop from Los Angeles International to Grand Cayman, the first direct route from the West Coast to the British territory. “Getting to Hawaii takes longer,” said Kenneth Bryan, Cayman Islands honorable minister for tourism and transport, in an interview with T+L. Wherever they’re flying in from, visitors will find plenty of new offerings along Seven Mile Beach, on Grand Cayman’s west shore. Chief among them is the freshly renovated Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman , which is now outfitted with a La Prairie Spa and Saint June restaurant, complete with a beachfront bar. (The property is thankfully still home to the long-running, annual Cayman Cookout .) For travelers who prefer heart-pumping adventure to pool- or beachside relaxation, the Caymans can deliver: Hiking reserves like the 100-year-old Mastic Trail on Grand Cayman or the Bluff on Cayman Brac may not be as well known as the islands’ beaches — but they should be. Meanwhile a growing art scene is beginning to draw international attention, thanks to shows at the well-established National Gallery of the Cayman Islands as well as the vibey, creative atmosphere at new hotels such as Palm Heights , as T+L recently reported . — Christine Burroni

Coastal Uruguay

© Tali Kimelman/Posada Ayana

The vast skies, empty beaches, and delicious food of Uruguay remain as alluring as they’ve ever been. Still, 2023 promises to be a breakout year for the country’s lowkey coastal destinations, thanks to an ever-growing art scene that adds a layer of culture to this already inviting stretch along the Southern Atlantic. Among the newest must-sees is the Atchugarry Museum of Contemporary Art in Punta del Este, a 90-acre campus which opened in early 2022. Also nearby is artist James Turrell’s “Ta Khut,” an experiential Skyspace that opened in late 2021 at Posada Ayana, a small hotel in José Ignacio. (The seaside village is also home to intriguing contemporary collections at three Vik Retreats properties, including Bahia Vik , with its oceanfront bungalows.) A short drive from José Ignacio, the village of Garzón has lately become a hub for multidisciplinary artists thanks to Campo , an incubator and non-profit that brings creatives to this still-rural corner of Uruguay. — Paul Brady

Lush mountains, bustling beach towns , and idyllic resorts make Guadeloupe the perfect place for adventurous travelers looking for something Caribbean but different. In recent years, though, it’s been difficult for U.S. travelers to reach this French overseas department — particularly after Norwegian ceased its nonstop flights to the destination in 2019. Now, things are looking up again, as JetBlue has relaunched its nonstop service from New York City to the gateway city of Pointe-à-Pitre in November 2022. SkyTeam faithfuls can also now get there on Air France, on nonstops from either Miami or New York; American Airlines also serves the archipelago from Miami. First-timers tend to focus on two of the islands, Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, the latter of which is home to Guadeloupe National Park. (A local tour company such as Vert Intense can help with the logistics of seeing Carbet Falls and La Grande Soufrière volcano.) Accommodations tend away from big brand names, though — this being France — there is an all-inclusive, beachfront Club Med La Caravelle . Other well-regarded options include the remote, hillside Le Jardin Malanga Hotel , with its dramatic ocean views, or the cliffside villas of the boutique-y La Toubana Hotel & Spa , along the southern shore of Grande-Terre. — Christine Burroni

The Jersey Shore, New Jersey

William Laird

“The real thing is quite different from TV,” George Distefano told T+L. Now a hotelier, Distefano grew up on the Jersey Shore — and today is doing his part to change the narrative around the beloved summer destination. His latest project, The James Bradley , is a 17-room inn that opened in Bradley Beach in August 2022 and is aimed at a crowd that’s perhaps quieter, chicer, and altogether less interesting to MTV producers. In nearby Asbury Park , which has long been a barometer of development, openings of The Asbury Hotel and the Asbury Ocean Club and Residences signal the start of a bougier era. Even Atlantic City is now substantially more chic, after many casino resorts, including Bally’s , Caesars , and Ocean , used the pandemic-induced dip in visitors to undertake hundreds of millions of dollars in renovations. “The area as a whole has had a bit of a renaissance,” Distefano said. One telling indicator of where the Shore is headed next? A Nobu Hotel is slated to open on the boardwalk any day now. — Hannah Walhout

Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii has been in the midst of a multi-year rethink about how tourism impacts the state . “We seek to balance the economic vitality of our industry with the health of our natural environment and the well-being of our communities,” is how Hawaii Tourism Authority President and CEO John De Fries put it this past summer . On Maui, that balance has been struck recently in efforts to renovate and reimagine some of the island’s most popular resorts. The 54-acre Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , to take one example, is finishing up a major overhaul that includes a reimagined aquatic complex (with three “zero-edge” swimming pools), an expanded Club Lounge , and programming that will include not just cocktail classes and cooking demonstrations but also lei making and musical performances by Hawaiian artists. On the southwest coast of the island, The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort is in the midst of its own refresh of all 776 guest rooms and suites; some are, happily, already good to go. There’s other progress beyond hotels: e-bikes are now plentiful on Maui, thanks to a recent rule change that allows them on island roads. Companies like RideSmart Maui lend out wheels that make exploring a breeze, whether your interest lies in the historic sites of Lahaina or the beautiful beaches around Wailea. — John Wogan

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Courtesy of Chablé Hotels

This picturesque stretch of the Yucatán peninsula is in the midst of welcoming four marquee hotels. The Waldorf Astoria Cancun just opened, a brand-new build with 173 rooms and five dining venues all overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Casa Chablé and The St. Regis Kanai Resort are slated to open in early 2023, followed by the Riviera Maya Edition at Kanai in spring 2023. Not new but refreshed is Maroma, a Belmond Hotel , which will reopen in May 2023 after a year-long closure with 10 new oceanfront suites and Latin America's first Guerlain spa. Farther south, closer to Tulum, the ultra-luxurious Hotel Esencia has added a posh new 10,000-square-foot, four-bedroom mansion tricked out with fitness and screening rooms, an underground speakeasy, and three pools — the perfect thing for a friends’ getaway. Not that hotels are the only draw: The last section of the new Maya Train project, which connects Cancun and Tulum, is expected to open by the end of 2023 after delays to address environmental and archeological concerns . The route will make several cultural and historic sites , including Chichén Itzá, more accessible and connect travelers to other destinations in the state of Quintana Roo, including Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos. Also on the horizon is the opening of the long-awaited Tulum airport, which Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said will be completed by the end of 2023. — Sarah Bruning

Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Courtesy of Auberge Resorts Collection

Long a vacationer’s paradise, this section of Mexico’s Pacific coast between Puerto Vallarta and the beach town of San Blas is only getting better in the year ahead. The 59-room Susurros del Corazón , Auberge Resorts Collection, began welcoming guests in November 2022 with experiences that include an introduction to raicilla , a lesser-known agave spirit, and boating excursions in Islas Marietas, a national park known for its biodiversity. On its heels, Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort , which is the second tented camp property from the brand , will open in December 2022. Accommodating just 30 people at a time, the lush 48-acre property is making wellness a key focus, so guests can expect to unwind with options like a temascal ceremony and nocturnal forest bathing sessions. An extra incentive to go? JetBlue launched new nonstop flights from JFK to Puerto Vallarta International, which serves as the gateway to the region. — Sarah Bruning

U.S. Virgin Islands

Courtesy of USVI Department of Tourism; Jamie Aranoff

With no pandemic restrictions, no passport needed, and plenty of inbound flights, the U.S. Virgin Islands are challenging Bermuda for the title of easiest warm-weather getaway for East Coasters. What’s more, the islands just established a Territorial Park System Trust Fund Board which will protect and preserve attractions like St. Croix’s Great Salt Pond and St. John’s Oppenheimer Beach. Caribbean flavors are, once again, another reason to go: The King of the Wing competition on St. Thomas, which celebrates creative chicken cookery, is back after a two-year hiatus; the 23rd annual Taste of St. Croix festival, one of the largest culinary events in the region, happens in April. Carnival , which returned in 2022, will be another event to watch in the year ahead. St. Thomas celebrates from late April through early May with food fairs, pageants, and parades; St. John fetes from late June through July 4, concluding with an Independence Day bash; and St. Croix sparkles from mid-December through Three Kings Day with more traditional, Christmas-centric fanfare. — Jamie Aranoff

For a Look at the Future

This past September, Bhutan, the impossibly scenic country between India and China, reopened to tourists after 30 months. But that’s nothing compared to the 60 years it’s taken to redevelop the 250-mile Trans-Bhutan Trail , which also reopened that month. Once the only way to travel across the Himalayan kingdom, the ancient pilgrimage route is now one of Bhutan’s biggest draws, a must-see for hikers, bikers, and other outdoorsy types. The trail connects 400 historic sites, with museums, fortresses, and temples along the way — plus stunning natural scenery and seemingly endless views. As part of its reopening, Bhutan has ended its policy requiring visitors to be accompanied 24/7 by a guide; instead, the nation has implemented an increased tourism tax, or Sustainable Development Fee, which is intended to fund social and cultural programs, infrastructure improvements, and environmental conservation. (The $200-a-day charge, up from $65, is also deliberately expensive, in an effort to keep visitor numbers low.) On the hotel front, Six Senses opened its fifth and final Bhutan lodge, Six Senses Bumthang , in March 2020, but the eco hideaway tucked in a pine forest in the town of Jakar, of course, has only just become accessible to foreigners. — Alisha Prakash

Boten–Vientiane Railway, Laos

Kaikeo Saiyasane/Xinhua via Getty Images

It’s not every day the world gets a new cross-country railroad. The ambitious Boten–Vientiane railway that stretches across Laos may have opened for business in late 2021, but now’s the time to jump aboard, as travel to Asia reopens to American visitors. The remarkable engineering project is one of many financed by China as part of the country’s Belt and Road Initiative that builds heavy infrastructure across Africa and Asia. In this case, the train has dramatically slashed travel times across the difficult-to-drive if strikingly beautiful landscapes of Laos: Trips that would’ve taken a full day by road can now be done in just a couple hours of train-carriage comfort, as T+L recently reported . The route runs from the northern border town of Boten to Luang Prabang, which is known for its many temples. It then continues on to Vang Vieng, a gateway to some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, before arriving in the capital, Vientiane, on the border with Thailand. Intermediate stations will help open up to visitors parts of the country that haven’t historically benefited from tourism, as Ruben Derksen, director of product and digital at Bangkok-based tour operator Exo Travel , told T+L. In the years ahead, the 257-mile railway may become even more critical, as just one segment of a Singapore to Shanghai route that will make continent-spanning journeys not just possible, but pleasant. — Paul Brady

Kyoto, Japan

Rudy Sulgan/Getty Images

Kyoto is often thought of as the serene, slowed-down complement to go-go Tokyo. And, certainly, the former Japanese capital has its historic temples, gardens, and teahouses. But since Japan’s October 2022 reopening to independent travelers , this destination and its new draws demand fresh eyes. The city’s famous Gion Matsuri , or festival, is set to return in full force in July 2023 following a pandemic pause, with enormous floats and a wealth of food and drink offerings; the event, which was first held in 869, is said to be Japan’s biggest festival. In August, Kyoto celebrates Gozan Okuribi , a bonfire celebration visible across the city that marks the close of Obon, a festival honoring ancestors. New hotels abound, including hospitality group Banyan Tree’s 138-room Dhawa Yura Kyoto , located in the heart of the city. Another new option is Garrya Nijo Castle Kyoto , with 25 rooms set amid lush greenery in front of Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also new — yet firmly rooted in the city’s history — is the recently opened Maana Kiyomizu , where visitors can spend the night in restored machiya , traditional wooden townhouses. Though Japan has only just reopened, it’s already getting even easier to get there, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ brand-new routes from Hawaii to Tokyo plus flights that resumed this fall from Los Angeles. — Alisha Prakash

New Zealand

Barry Tobin; Courtesy of Tourism New Zealand

After a stringent lockdown, New Zealand has at last dropped all travel restrictions. Happily, the country is becoming more accessible than ever, thanks to the nonstop flights between New York and Auckland that Air New Zealand launched in September. (That long haul has also gotten comfier, thanks to the airline’s Economy Skycouch seats.) Wondering if those 17 hours in the air will be worth it? Auckland continues to evolve with no shortage of dazzling new places to stay. The 99-room Hotel Britomart , lined in timber and exuding Zen calm, is at the heart of Auckland’s Britomart District, nine blocks of historic warehouses converted into shops and restaurants. Mawhiti Walheke is a luxurious modern guest pavilion on a vineyard-covered island a short ferry ride from the city. And New Zealand’s spectacular landscape finally has a showstopper of a property to match it: Flock Hill , a fully serviced four-bedroom villa on a sheep ranching station in the Southern Alps region of South Island. — Peter Terzian

Teahupo’o,Tahiti

© Gre goire Le Bacon

The village of Teahupo’o, on the southwestern coast of Tahiti, will take center stage during the 2024 Paris Olympics, despite being 9,800 miles from the French capital. But unless you’re planning to compete, the year ahead is the ideal time for a closer look at this part of French Polynesia, before the world’s attention turns to the South Pacific. Some of the incredible waves here rate among the most fearsome on the planet — hence the name Teahupo’o, which essentially means “wall of skulls” — while others are more rideable for those with some surfing experience. Accommodations such as Tahurai can organize coaching sessions, including some hosted by local surf icon Tereva David. Those more comfortable watching the waves than riding them can get on the water with tour companies such as Teahupo’o Tahiti Surfari , which takes visitors by boat to see the famous Teahupo’o swell, one of the highest and heaviest waves in the world, as well as waterfalls, lagoons, lava tubes, and cliff-diving spots around the island. Meanwhile, it’s gotten easier than ever to reach Tahiti, thanks to Delta Air Lines’ new nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Fa'a'ā International Airport. Air Tahiti Nui has also added connectivity, with the only nonstop flights between Seattle and Tahiti, which took off in October. — Jamie Aranoff

Victoria, British Columbia

Carlina Teteris/Getty Images

What does it look like for a city to meaningfully prioritize “sustainability,” a word that often ends up more “feel-good” than actually “do-good?” Victoria is maximizing its green impact, aiming to make all new buildings carbon neutral by 2025 and halve landfill waste by 2040. Admittedly, few travelers pick destinations based on zero-waste initiatives, but it’s easy to take an environmentally minded trip to Victoria — the city even has suggested “green travel” itineraries , capitalizing on the outdoor beauty of places like Goldstream Provincial Park, one of many green spaces on Vancouver Island. Visitors have their choice of carbon-neutral hotels, such as Inn at Laurel Point and Parkside Hotel & Spa , and can even do carbon-neutral fast food at Big Wheel Burger , Canada’s first such restaurant. Other eco-minded activities include e-biking along the Saanich Peninsula to seaside towns like Sidney — with stops at picturesque wineries or the Butchart Gardens along the way — or hopping aboard an orca-watching cruise with Eagle Wing Tours , which is, of course, part of 1% for the Planet . — Liz Cantrell

JJ Farquitectos/Getty Images

Austria’s capital city may be old — like, Holy Roman Empire old — but 2023 will see neue life in this historic destination. The year ahead is the 150th anniversary of Vienna’s World’s Fair, and the celebrations include 12 months of cultural events. It’s also the 300th anniversary of the opening of the Belvedere , the palatial museum that’s mounting an art nouveau exhibit featuring 90 Gustav Klimt works in February. Adaptive reuse is also on trend here, and the recently opened Rosewood Vienna is but one example, set in a neoclassical building that was once a bank headquarters and, before that, an apartment building where Mozart lived. The now-reopened Reznicek is a contemporary gasthaus inside a 100-year-old inn; Grace ’s Michelin-starred fare is served in a refurbished wood-paneled café reminiscent of the ‘70s. Not that Vienna is only looking to the past: New initiatives have added 1,000 miles of bike paths, carsharing via WienMobil , a robust network of electric buses, and new development in the fast-growing Aspern neighborhood where every public space and street is named after a woman . Other new additions include Hotel Josefine , with its sultry Roaring ‘20s energy and Hotel Gilbert , with a greenery-cloaked façade and Scandi-inspired design. Nonstop flights from Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Newark, New York City, and Washington, D.C. are always an option but the most au courant way in may be the new Paris to Vienna Nightjet train , which runs three days a week, with private cabins with lie-flat beds and breakfast in the morning. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

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21 Best places to spend New Years in Europe (2024/2025)

Are you looking to escape your normal New Years Eve parties and celebrations? Why not head to Europe? New Years Eve in Europe is magical!

Counting down to midnight as the snow falls around you.

Hearing so many different languages counting down (10, 9, 8) celebrating with your new friends from many corners of the globe, (7, 6, 5) sipping on mulled wine and champagne, (4, 3, 2) while welcoming the New Year (1, Happy New Year!)

New Years Eve in Europe, will provide you with memories and stories to last a life time.

Some of my best New Years Eve celebrations have happened in Europe. From doing a Highland Fling in a pub in Inverness to partying with thousands of other travellers on Princes Street, to shopping at a Christmas market in Berlin, these are memories I will never forget and I cannot wait to get back to Europe for New Years Eve celebrations.

So, where are the best places to spend New Years in Europe?

Table of Contents

21 Best Places in Europe for New Years

1. amsterdam, holland.

Natasha, Great Ocean Road Collective

Every year, the Dutch capital of Amsterdam rings in the New Year with some of the best celebrations for New Years Eve in Europe.

This charming city is known for its whimsical canals, narrow gabled houses, and cobblestone streets. During the holiday period, the city is lit up by the colors of the Amsterdam Light Festival, including installations from different international artists.

Partygoers will enjoy the huge range of festivals and parties, including the silent disco at HUSH, 

New Year’s Eve in Amsterdam starts in the streets.

Head to the heart of the city to spots like Dam Square, Leidseplein, The Nieuwmarkt, and Rembrandtplein, where you’ll find locals and visitors alike ringing in the New Year.

At Dam square, you can enjoy beer tents, as well as free live music and entertainment.

You’ll find stands selling oleibollen and appel beignets, both versions of deep-fried dough.

It’s a Dutch tradition to enjoy an oliebol with a glass of champagne on New Year’s Eve, so dig in!

Another fun Dutch New Year’s Eve tradition is buying an oudejaarslot .

This special lottery ticket is sold on New Years Eve, which happens to have the highest prize of the entire year!

Who knows, you may start the year as a millionaire! 

2. Berlin, Germany

Sydney, A World in Reach

Berlin is one of Europe’s most exciting cities, and one of the best times to visit Berlin is for Silvester, the German name for New Year’s Eve.

On the last evening of the year, the city comes alive with celebrations and fireworks galore.

On the morning of the 31st, sleep in for a bit to prepare for the fun night ahead.

During the day, explore the city and see some of the top sights like Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, or the East Side Gallery.

This evening, there are plenty of ways you can choose to ring in the new year.

If you’d prefer something more low-key, make dinner reservations and get tickets to the Berlin Philharmonic New Year’s Eve Concert.

If you’re ready to party, reserve tickets at one of Berlin’s famous clubs – many of the parties offer an open bar, snacks, and dancing all night long for a reasonable price.

Or, you can choose to celebrate with hundreds of thousands of your closest friends at the city’s official party at Brandenburg Gate.

One thing’s for sure: no matter how you choose to celebrate, you’ll definitely see fireworks – lots of fireworks!

One of the best Silvester traditions you can experience in Berlin? At midnight, it’s tradition to celebrate with a jelly-filled Berliner donut.

This is a great (and delicious!) way to celebrate the upcoming year!

3. Brussels, Belgium

Annelies, Travelers and Dreamers

If you’re looking for a great place in Europe to spend New Year’s Eve, Brussels is definitely worth considering!

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is famous for Belgian beers, chocolate and fries, street art and unique monuments like the Atomium and Manneke Pis.

There are a bunch of things to do on New Year’s Eve so you probably will have trouble picking just one thing!

During the day, make your way to Brussels’ famous Christmas market . Here you can find over 200 chalets selling gluhwein, fries, chocolate, and more to satisfy your tastebuds.

Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or feel like a kid again while ice skating on a huge ice rink at Place de Brouckère. Follow  Plaisirs d’hiver  for the most up-to-date information.

In the evening there are options abound for every mood and music style. Do you fancy a multiple-course meal at a traditional Belgian restaurant? Check out La fin de siècle, Viva M’boma or la porteuse d’eau to enjoy typical Belgian dishes like stoemp, Flemish carbonades or vol-au-vent.

Vegan or vegetarian? No problem. There are many great  plant-based restaurants in Brussels  to enjoy a cruelty-free meal on NYE like Humus & Hortense, for example, which is awarded a green Michelin star.

Are you a fan of major indoor events? Head to Paleis 12 for  FUCKNYE festival , a large indoor event presenting you the best DJs from the hip-hop, rap, hardcore, trance, and techno scene.

If you like to explore multiple locations in Brussels on New Year’s Eve, the best thing you can do is to buy the  Happy Brussels Party Pass .

This party pass gives you access to numerous small clubs and party locations in the city, offering music ranging from house and techno to disco and even jazz.

For a more intimate vibe, you can opt to spend New Years’ Eve at La Grand Place, enjoying a festive vibe with a light show and beers and chocolate.

There are also many typical Belgian pubs in the city organizing small New Years’ Eve parties. The best ones are at Monk Café, Café Central, and Le Coq.

If you want to enjoy fireworks, the best place to spend the evening is at the Atomium.

Public transport in Brussels on New Year’s Eve is free so it is easy to get around a city and try multiple things.

A good hotel to spend New Years’ day, whether you have a hangover or not, is Jardin Secret. Not only are the rooms fantastic but they also offer wellness services and have a heated outside pool that is open during winter.

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4. Dublin, Ireland

Mary, Be Right Back By Mary

One of the  best things to do in Dublin in the winter  is coming for the holidays and especially, New Year’s.

Dublin is a welcoming city with lots of historical sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, the Book of Kells and St Patrick’s Cathedral.

But it’s also a bustling city with welcoming locals who know how to party and spend fun evenings at the pubs!

When the holidays approach, pubs and locals really go all in and the city turns into a magical place where lots of events take place.

Spending New Year’s in Dublin is a special experience and one you’ll never forget! 

On New Year’s Eve, Dublin organises the New Year’s Festival which takes place over two days and attracts visitors from all over the world.

It is a countdown experience with events, music, and famous light shows topped up by the traditional fireworks!

Some of the main events are the Liffey Lights show, the Countdown Concert and the final fireworks which all take place at the beautiful Custom House, only a few minutes walk from Dublin’s famous Temple Bar District.

It is recommend to arrive early at the quays fill up with crowds hours in advance, visitors wanting the best spot to watch the show.

The Clayton Hotel is a great place to stay near Custom House for the festivities.

5. Edinburgh, Scotland

Amanda, AmandaWalkins.com

Edinburgh is definitely one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Europe. In fact, it’s one of the biggest NYE celebrations in the entire world!

Known locally as Hogmanay, New Year’s Eve was the most important wintertime celebration for about four centuries in Scotland.

Christmas didn’t become a public holiday until 1958, so — over the years — Hogmanay grew in importance as the primary time to gather with loved ones.

Traditions are important in Scotland, with various annual festivals honoring their roots in pagan, Viking, and Celtic festivities.

While Hogmanay celebrates the new calendar year, the Beltane Fire Festival in Edinburgh celebrates the start of spring, and Samhuinn marks the end of the harvest season around today’s Halloween.

Nowadays, the three-day epic Hogmanay celebration attracts visitors from all over the world. 

Events officially begin on 30 December with a torchlight procession through the streets of Edinburgh .

The procession is typically led by the Up Helly Aa Vikings from Shetland, so it’s an awesome event to watch, even if you don’t participate with a torch yourself.

On New Year’s Eve, you can partake in a wide variety of celebrations, from family-friendly daytime events to classy candlelit concerts to a more debaucherous street party spanning multiple blocks with various stages for live music all night long.

In all settings, you can expect fireworks on the hour starting at 9pm, with a massive show at midnight as folks break out into song with the old Scottish classic, Auld Lang Syne.

On New Year’s Day, head to nearby South Queensferry to watch the Loony Dook. More commonly called a “polar plunge” in other parts of the world, in Edinburgh, folks opt to dress up in costumes and leap into the frigid Firth of Forth to start the new year right.

It’s a sight to behold!

If you’re planning to partake in the Hogmanay celebrations, try to stay centrally in Edinburgh for easy access to all the main events.

New Town and Old Town are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you’ll find a variety of boutique hotels, Airbnbs, and even some international chains.

6. Frankfurt, Germany

Daniel and Ilona, Top Travel Sights

Frankfurt  is one of the New Year’s Eve destinations in Europe. In this international city, you can find many themed parties that day.

Expats from all over the world celebrate the end of the year at masquerade balls or wild parties.

Those looking for a more relaxed evening will go to one of the many excellent restaurants to enjoy a delicious multi-course meal.

At midnight, head down to the river Main. From the pedestrian bridge Eiserner Steg you have a great view of the fireworks and the skyscrapers in the background.

Make sure to arrive early so you can stand in the front row!

If you are looking for a unique experience that includes a fantastic view of the fireworks, book a cruise on the river Main.

You will enjoy dinner on the boat before heading to the deck at midnight.

You can also watch people set off their own fireworks. Locals will flock to the streets, especially to  Fressgasse , an area known for its many bars and restaurants.

With lots of explosions and colourful lights, people will then celebrate the beginning of the new year.

Besides setting off fireworks, Germans have a few more traditions they like to celebrate on New Year’s Eve – and you can experience all of them in Frankfurt.

Start your evening by watching Dinner for One. This black and white British short film is extremely popular in Germany, much more than in the UK.

You will find it playing on multiple TV channels throughout the evening.

Next, go to a bakery and buy a  Kreppel . Germans will eat this doughnut-like pastry, which also goes by the names of Berliner, Krapfen or Pfannkuchen, on New Year’s Eve.

Some families will order lots of jam-filled  Kreppel  and one filled with mustard – and then wait to see who picks up the inedible one.

Happy New Year, or, as we say in German,  Guten Rutsch !

7. Krakow, Poland

Ketki, Explore with Ecokats

Whether you want to party in a club, attend a music fest or spend the new year walking around in the main market square like the locals, then Krakow is one of the best places to spend new years in Europe.

The festive spirit is apparent with the entire city wearing lights, decorations and festive food stalls selling Polish goodies.

The best way to experience NYE in Krakow is to walk on the cobbled roads leading to the Krakow old town main market square ‘Rynek Główny’.

Known as one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe, this square is the city’s gravitational centre and come New Year’s, it is beaming with a festive glow. 

Purchase a mulled wine or hot chocolate and munch on Polish food such as pierogies, kielbasa, and pączki from the Christmas market set up in the square.

Since all the locals congregate here, there are many free entertainment programs like music concerts and performances by Polish artists and singers.

As the clock turns to midnight, the sky lights up with fireworks to mark the start of the new year.

In recent years, the fireworks have been a no-show due to the rising pollution problems and the administration has turned towards a more sustainable celebration – Confetti Poppers.

All in all, it is a grand celebration together and the Poles sure know how to ring in a new year.

Tip: The popular horse carriage rides are not available at midnight and especially not on New Year’s Eve because of the crowds.

8. Lagos, Portugal

Alya, The Algarve Family

Lagos, a beautiful beach town in southern Portugal is a great place to spend New Year’s Eve. It is a perfect combination of a New Year party destination and a beach holiday .

The town is well-known for its New Year’s fireworks. The Old Town and the Marina de Lagos are the best places to celebrate New Year.

Both areas have plenty of bars and restaurants with live music.

The Marina is a better place for watching fireworks. The stage where the concert takes place is usually set on Praca do Infante in the Old Town.

From the square, it’s just 50 m to the nearest beach where you can welcome New Year on the beach by watching fireworks.

Most bars and restaurants stay open through the night.

You can settle in one place or visit several establishments during the night. A New Year’s dinner at any restaurant should be booked in advance.

Lagos is a popular place to come for New Year’s Eve. It’s highly recommended to book accommodation, activities, and car long in advance.

All night concerts and fireworks are not the only New Year’s Eve activities in Lagos.

During the day you can do a boat or a kayak trip along the cliffs or visit the famous Benagil Cave.

In Lagos, you can combine a New Year’s celebration by escaping the cold with a surfing holiday. Even if you have never surfed before, learning a new thing is a great way to start a new year. 

For a party vibe, Boutique Taghostel is the best place to stay in Lagos on New Year’s Eve.

For a romantic stay, Lagos Avenida Hotel 400 m away from the Old Town is a perfect choice for you.

9. London, England

Anastasija, Parenthood4ever

London is one of the best cities for New Year’s Eve because there is something special for everyone.

First of all, there are lots of special events for kids and families in London starting from visiting Santa’s Grottos or meeting Santa at kids’ favorite places, such as Willows Farm or London Zoo.

One of the epic events in London is Winter Wonderland, which usually starts around the 20th of November and lasts until the first week of January in Hyde Park.

There is something for everyone, including markets, food and drink stalls, an ice rink, ice kingdom, circus shows, and a variety of rollercoasters.

London is famous for Winter Light Festivals to (in fact, this should be on your England Bucket List ).

The tickets get sold out a couple of months before the event even takes place. One of the most popular Christmas Lights Festival is at Kew Gardens.

It offers a magical light trail throughout all gardens, including a glittering tunnel of bells, giant illuminated seed heads, and majestic trees wrapped in light.

Don’t get upset if you missed the slot, Winterfest at Wembley Park offers a light show too, and it is free of charge.

Christmas markets are not an exception. There are a couple of nice markets all around London, including central London where you can have fun, enjoy nice music, and hot drinks.

Of course, the world-famous New Year’s Eve firework display is a breath-taking must-see event that you can watch at the riverside, from one of the rooftops, or in comfort at home watching it on TV.

Finally, what is New Year without the party?

London is one of the best new years party in Europe, you will find New Years Eve parties for every taste in almost any club, bar, hotel, theaters and of course street in London.

10. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Lucile, Lucile Hr.com

Luxembourg may not be considered as one of the top destinations to visit to celebrate New Year’s Eve, but it can certainly offer a unique experience during the winter holiday.

If you want a less crowded New Year’s Eve in Europe, Luxembourg is a wonderful place to celebrate. Locals celebrate it mildly, with many of them getting out of the city to pursue skiing and beach somewhere else.

This doesn’t mean that there’s not a lot of fun in this underrated country.

Want to explore the city on New Year’s Eve or perhaps go on a mindful, meditative walk as you reflect on the past year?

Visit one of Luxembourg’s gems, Chemin de la Corniche, and be in awe as you see the majestic view of the illuminated city.

And of course, don’t miss out on the magical splendor of the Winter lights Festival, which runs late in November to the first week of January.

Go for ice skating in Place Guillaume II’s ice rink to have a fantastic time or perhaps, stay to watch concerts and chorales at the Christmas markets.

Luxembourg can also be a great place for the family on New Year’s Eve. There’s a lot of entertainment with the Cirque du Lux in Limpertsberg that the family will definitely enjoy.

Watch amazing acrobats do their stunts and be impressed by the colorful light displays during the show.

And yes, there are fireworks in Luxembourg on New Year’s Eve, and the best thing about it is that you can witness the magic from different beautiful viewpoints.

You can then book your stay in one of the many reputed hotels in Luxembourg, including Novotel Suites Luxembourg , Sofitel , and Le Place d’Armes Hotel .

They also host their own parties with music and alcohol to ring in the new year.

One thing you shouldn’t forget though: wear appropriate clothing since it can get really chilly at night.

11. Madrid, Spain

Paulina, Paulina on the road

Madrid, the central capital of Spain (which by the way is one of the best European countries to celebrate new year), is a city with vast, manicured parks and elegant boulevards.

The city is known for its rich collection of European art, food and incredible celebrations like the New Year’s, which makes it one of the best places to spend Christmas and new years.

There is a lot that this city has to offer including historical buildings, food markets and the royals. There are unique neighbourhoods, bustling nightlife, incredible skies and marvelous museums.

If one is thinking of spending New Year’s Eve and New Year in Madrid, they have made the best decision.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Madrid is a unique feeling as people get to see how the locals celebrate it their way.

One of the most famous traditions that visitors will experience is eating grapes at midnight, one for every gong.

The locals believe that doing this brings good luck and they enjoy following this tradition with their friends and family.

New Year in Madrid is way different from the celebrations in other parts of the world.

There are unique traditions, great get-togethers and family dinners that would give a one of a kind feeling.

This is why people should consider celebrating their New Year’s in this particular city.

The main meeting point is Puerta del Sol where people from everywhere around the city and the world meet up and eat grapes together as the bell rings 12.

Visitors have to make sure to arrive early as that is only how they can get to the square.

As soon as the clock strikes twelve, people begin to make their way to the city’s different nightclubs.

Pre-booking for New Year’s Eve club entrance is highly suggested due to the strong demand and increased pricing that occurs at the last minute.

New Year’s Eve in Madrid is marked with a special menu at some of the city’s most prominent restaurants.

Different from the traditions of most Spaniards, visitors can be one of the many tourists who choose to spend their New Year’s Eve in Madrid with a lavish lunch.

Enjoy lavish  food in Madrid  at the Hotel Palace, the city’s extravagant restaurant. Another option is to reserve a dinner table at NH Collection Madrid Gran Va, where visitors can take in the city’s stunning skyline view from its outstanding sky bar.

For a great stay, make a booking at Madrid Mariott Auditorium or Safestay Madrid. They are good family hotels with nice customer reviews.

12. Munich, Germany

Christina, Travel 2 Next

Germans love big celebrations and New Year’s Eve across Germany is one big Bavarian beer hall party. As Munich is home to Oktoberfest, there’s no better city in Germany to cheer in the New Year than here.

New Year’s Eve in Germany is known as “Silvester”, and in Munich, revellers are attracted to several locations including the most famous landmarks in Germany such as Old Town Square, Marienplatz, Olympic Park, and the English Garden.

The atmosphere is electric and soaking up the buzz from the crowd amidst these historic sites is a memorable way to celebrate the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one.  

Some of the iconic places to see the fireworks in Munich are at Schwanthalerhöhe, as close as you can to the foot of the Bavaria statue, or at the Friedensengel statue.

If you’d prefer a view of the fireworks going off above the skyline Olympiaberg (Olympic Mountain) is the place to be.

Partygoers should head for the winter festival of Tollwood on the Theresienwiese and celebrate over dinner while grooving to cool beats of live bands and DJ tracks.

Another party worth going to is at Muffatwerk, which is a converted waterworks and a cool spot to party on to the wee hours.

13. Paris, France

Paris  is one of the most iconic cities in Europe, with one of the most iconic landmarks, the Eiffel. So it is no surprise that Paris as a huge variety of parties and Entertainment to ring in the New Year in Europe.

If you want to visit the best places in Europe for New Year’s Eve, look no further than Paris. The Champs-Elysess looks amazing as thousands of tourists and locals alike flock to the famous street to see the fireworks above Paris.

For a truly unique New Years Eve experience, enjoy champagne aboard river cruise down the Seine River with the best views of the Eiffel Tower as the fire works explode.

If you would prefer to experience New Years Eve in Paris with a gorgeous view of the Eiffel Tower but without the fuss of other people, check into one of the best hotels in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower ….. just make sure you book early!!

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

Paula, Paula Pins the Planet

If you are planning to spend new year in Europe, you should add Reykjavik on top of your  Iceland itinerary  bucket list.  

An interesting fact about Iceland is that fireworks are banned majority of the year in Iceland, however fireworks are legal for the week around New Year’s Eve as the profits benefit the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, which is an independent organization of volunteers who man search and rescue missions across Iceland.  

One of the most popular ways to celebrate new year is to experiencing the bonfires in Reykjavik.

They are a unique Icelandic tradition that make celebrating New Year’s Eve in Iceland truly special. 

You can find bonfire location at the local newspaper, and join local for the festive time. The neighbourhood at Vesturbær along the beach is a great option for a fun new year Eve celebration. 

At midnight on New Year’s Eve, Reykjavik becomes a firework war zone amidst with smiles and champagne.

Afterwards, most people, especially tourists, will descend upon the downtown area for going to the bars and clubs.

Reykjavik is full of great bars and clubs although be prepare for the high prices for the cocktails!  

One of the best places to stay in Reykjavik is the Freyja Guesthouse and Suites as they are situated close to the Hallgrimskirkja church. 

15. Seville, Spain

Linn, Brainy Backpackers

Seville is an amazing city to celebrate New Years Eve in Europe. While this is usually a family night for most locals, where they have a big dinner accompanied with cava before the clock turns 12 minutes to midnight.

The tradition says if you eat 12 grapes, one per second counting down to midnight, it brings you good luck. After midnight is when the young go out and party until dawn.

But not all Spanish sit inside for the countdown. The Plaza Nueva square is the perfect place to join the countdown.

It is always packed with people and a truly festive place to hang out, but don’t forget to get hold of your 12 grapes! There are also a lot of great parties in Seville for New Year’s Eve.

There are many things you can do in the city before and after the big night! Make sure you go back in history by visiting the Alcazaba, Cathedral, and La Giralda in the city center.

The Tower of Gold is neatly situated by the river where you can go on a river cruise, or even be more adventurous and go stand up paddle boarding.

The food market on the other side of the historic bridge, Puente de Triana, is great for lunch and while you’re in the Triana neighborhood why not enjoy a Flamenco show?

Another highlight you should not miss on your  Seville itinerary  is Plaza de España and the biggest park in the city, the Maria Louisa Park.

Seville is the perfect place to stay for a mini vacation or a shorter winter city break.

16. Tenerife, Spain

Alexandra, Tenerife-Is 

The Canary Island of Tenerife  in Spain is always a fabulous New Year’s Eve option. There you can have a fun and delicious New Year on the beach!

If you want sunshine instead of snow for New Year’s Eve, Tenerife is the best place for you.

You can swap winter for summer, snow-covered asphalt for the beach with black sand, high-rise buildings for palm trees, and apartments for a beautiful house with flowering plants.  

Every corner of the island is special. There are picturesque beaches, like a postcard, there are completely wild and deserted places, gorges and rocks, forests and vineyards.

There are cosmic, scorched by eruptions landscapes, the so-called “Martian” landscapes.

The feeling of walking on the edge of a volcano’s lava, frozen millions of years ago, is a great gift to yourself for the New Year.

Walking among the dense greenery in the forest or sunbathing on the heated black sand, from any point, you will see the snow-capped top of the volcano.  

The Spanish know a lot about fun and delicious food, so the New Year in Tenerife will probably be the most colorful in your life.

Year after year, on New Year’s Eve, performers and musicians in carnival costumes take to the streets.

With songs, dances, and mock performances, the carnival moves toward the coast and ends with a large-scale fireworks display.

Fireworks are held in all major cities on the island. It’s popular to meet the New Year at the beach and then continue the party in a bar or a nightclub. Besides the fireworks, Tenerife has another New Year’s tradition: eating 12 grapes to the clock’s beat while the clock counts down the last moments of the outgoing year.  

17. Valencia, Spain

Laura, Travelers Universe

Valencia is a beautiful city on the Mediterranean coast. It’s the birthplace of the famous Spanish paella and it one of the best cities to visit during new years.

While many beachgoers prefer Valencia in summer due to its miles upon miles of beautiful urban beaches, the truth is that Valencia is a great destination during the winter months as well.

So if you’re wondering  what to do in Valencia  to celebrate the end of the year (and the beginning of a new one)

The first thing you must know is that the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in Valencia is a street party and it takes place right in the Town Hall square.

This is the heart of the city – an ample space where young and old like to gather to eat the 12 grapes for good luck and toast with cava (the Spanish version of champagne).

The Town Hall balcony becomes a stage for DJs and the music booms until around 3 am.

One thing to take into consideration if you’re planning to have dinner out for New Year’s Eve in Valencia is that most restaurants close soon after midnight or even before that.

This is why the Town Hall party is a great place to be if you want to start the year on party beats.

If you don’t want to walk, drive or take a taxi when the party finishes, the newly open Only You Hotel is right next to the Town Hall square.

18. Venice, Italy

Pamela, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve in Europe is the beautiful city of Venice.

A mixture of breathtaking views, mouthwatering food, and an epic party make  celebrating New Year’s Eve in Venice  the experience of a lifetime. 

Since Venice is located in northern Italy, be sure to wear warm clothes when visiting.

The restaurants will be warm, but outside will be cold so be sure to dress in layers to be comfortable all night! 

Start the night with a delicious dinner, usually served between 8 and 9pm. For dinner with a view, try a dinner cruise around the city.

You’ll see key locations such as Rialto bridge and Saint Mark’s Square. 

The party and  “Love” celebration starts at 10:00 in the Piazza San Marco. Street performers, live music, and Bellini help to ring in the new year.

A few minutes before midnight, head to the waterfront for fireworks.

The fireworks illuminate the Venice skyline for a breathtaking show. 

The celebration continues all night and even into the next day. If you’re a brave traveler, you can join a polar plunge in the Adriatic sea on January 1st!

If you prefer a quieter start to the new year, you can see the annual new year’s eve concert at  La Fenice Opera House .

There are shows on December 30, 31, and January 1st. 

No matter what you decide to do, you’ll be glad you celebrated New Year’s Eve in Venice.

19. Vienna, Austria

Kami, My Wanderlust

Vienna , the capital of Austria, is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities to visit in Europe and one of the best places to go for new years in Europe.

The whole city is celebrating with numerous events and you will find thousands of people joining the fun.

In the center, there are a few different scenes with various kinds of music so you can choose where to party according to your taste.

At midnight in front of the town hall, the pavement and streets change into the dance floor so the crowd can dance together to the Blue Danube waltz, the most typical Viennese classical song. Everyone is welcome to join and dance.

If you get hungry there are market stalls everywhere, serving snacks and mulled wine (you can purchase a memorial cup for a few Euros and get it refilled with drinks).

If the New Year’s Eve celebrations didn’t wear you out you should attend the world-famous Opera concert on the 1st of January, the ultimate Viennese NYE experience.

Just keep in mind that this is a very popular way to spend a New Year’s day in Vienna so tickets can get sold out quickly.

If you want to relax, you can go for a cup of coffee and the famous Sacher cake to one of the traditional coffeehouses in Vienna.

To get the best of spend in g the New Year’s Eve in Vienna it’s best to stay somewhere in the inner center or (to get a more affordable option) near one of the metro stations so you can be close to all the main attractions and activities.

One of the recommended places to stay is Superbude Wien Prater near the Messe-Prater metro station.

20. Inverness, Scotland

Welcoming 2011 in the enchanting city of Inverness was an extraordinary experience.

The night was sparked into life at the iconic Culloden House Hotel, where I had the incredible opportunity to be part of their New Year’s Eve team.

The grand Georgian building was aglow with festive charm; its exuberant atmosphere reflected the anticipation of a brand new year. The night was filled with cheerful banter, the clinking of glasses, and the soft, warm notes of laughter weaving themselves into the rich tapestry of the celebration.

As the countdown to midnight approached, I found myself in one of Inverness’s heartwarming local pubs.

All around me, folk were shedding the old year like an outgrown coat, eager to enter the new.

Then the bells tolled, heralding the arrival of 2011, and the whole pub erupted into a spirited rendition of the traditional Highland Fling.

The fling, a whirlwind of stomping feet, swinging kilts, and sparkling eyes, perfectly encapsulated the energetic and resilient spirit of the Highlands. As a highland dancer, how could I resist joining in? Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Inverness, it seems, is an unforgettable dance into the unknown.

21. Prague, Czech Republic

As the final page of 2012 turned, I found myself amidst the majestic, fairytale-like landscapes of Prague.

This city, steeped in history and crowned by castles, is the perfect backdrop for any New Year’s Eve celebration.

As dusk cloaked the city, a thousand twinkling lights set the Vltava River aglow, creating an ethereal reflection that danced harmoniously with the city’s vivacious spirit.

New Year’s Eve in Prague is nothing short of spectacular. Strolling through the Old Town Square, I was greeted by a vibrant cacophony of laughter and chatter.

The air was alive with anticipation and laced with the tantalizing scent of Trdelník, the traditional Czech pastry.

Prague’s night sky is a canvas on New Year’s Eve; the stroke of midnight sees it burst into a riot of colors, the fireworks echoing the city’s joyous welcome of the new year.

Standing on the iconic Charles Bridge with the Prague Castle illuminated in the background, I felt the city’s timeless beauty come alive.

The feeling was akin to being in a moving historical painting – the medieval structures, the gothic architecture, and the jubilant crowd around, all blending to create an unforgettable symphony. As a travel blogger, I can assert that welcoming a new year in Prague is a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience that etches itself onto your heart, forever reminding you of its mesmerizing charm.

FAQs: Best place in Europe for New Years

Do they celebrate new years in europe.

Yes! New Years is celebrated in Europe, the best thing about celebrating New Years Eve in Europe is that each country have their own traditions and way of bringing in the New Year.

In the North of Scotland it is tradition to bring a gift (usually whiskey) to your neighbours or friends. This starts after midnight and often carries on well into New Years Day.

Which are the best European cities for new years?

There are many great cities to spend New Years Eve in Europe, but some of the most popular destinations include Paris, London, and Vienna. These cities offer plenty of festive activities and amazing firework displays to ring in the new year.

What are the best cheap new year destinations in Europe?

Europe doesn’t have to cost a fortune at New Years, it is possible to celebrate New Years Eve in Europe on a budget. Some of the best cheap new year destinations in Europe, are Prague, Vilnius, Zagreb and Bratislava.

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WRAP UP: Best Places to Spend New Years Eve in Europe

Whether you this is your first trip to Europe for New Year or you’ve travelled to Europe a hundred times before, there are plenty of places for you to spend new Years Eve in Europe.

The hardest choice you are going to have is deciding which country and city you want to visit this New Years

Planning on spending the holiday period in Europe? Check out the Best Christmas Markets in Europe

I'm Fiona, the Australian blogger behind Travelling Thirties. Travel has always been my passion since 2007. I created this site to help inspire you to travel the world. In 2010 I moved from Australia to Scotland with $500 and a one way ticket, no one thought I'd last 5 minutes but I lasted 5 years. I share everything from one day itineraries to travel tips and tricks from Australia to Europe that will inspire you to get out and travel. Some of my favourite countries I have been to are France, Finland, Denmark, and England.

Travel Expertise: Europe Travel, France Travel, Christmas Markets, travel planning, itineraries and travel tips

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10 of the best places in europe to spend new year’s eve.

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Fireworks New Years Eve Maderia

According to professional travel organisation, European Best Destinations , the Portuguese island of Madeira is the best place to see the annual New Year’s Eve fireworks display. The travel experts polled a panel of 11,963 travellers from 112 countries, mainly from the United Kingdom (22,42%) and the United States (18,91%) and found the top destination to count down the 2024 New Year is Madeira, followed by Marbella (Spain) with London ranking number three. Here are the top ten.

1. Madeira Islands, Portugal

Aerial view from the highest Cabo Girao, Madeira island, Portugal

Madeira has been the favorite destination for a New Year in Europe for six years in a row. It is ranked at the top thanks to its New Year Fireworks in the bay of Funchal (the largest and most lavish in Europe), its comfortable subtropical climate year round, its great offering of four and five star hotels, including the historic Belmond Reid’s Palace where George Bernard Shaw learned to tango and Winston Churchill came to write his memoirs. Madeira is also the birthplace of the famous footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo who has opened a hotel and museum in his name. Madeira is one of the best places for outdoor lovers. It has 3,000 levadas , small irrigation canals that provide trekking routes through the mountains and forests of the island. Or a guided jeep tour with Hit the Road Tours is truly exhilarating with a focus on going “off the beaten track.”

2. Marbella, Spain

Puerto Banus at dusk, marina of Marbella, Spain

For fans of bling breaks, Marbella is a great choice ; it has one of the largest concentrations of designer boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, five-star hotels, an impressive Marina and a beach chosen as the most beautiful beach in Spain . After partying on New Year’s Eve in a Marbella beach front hotel like Amàre Beach Hotel Marbella (Adults Only) or Nobu , wake up on a New Year's sunny day near the sea, lying on a deckchair, enjoying a massage or a hammam for an after party detox.

3. London,England

Big Ben with firework in London, England (celebration of the New Year)

Magical at Christmas with gorgeous light displays and markets, London is also superb for the New Year. What could be more emblematic than to count down to the New Year at the foot of Big Ben, in front of a fireworks display fired from the river Thames? The Thames fireworks are a ticketed event so booking in advance is essential and it does sell out. However, there are plenty of other events and parties throughout the capital.

4. Lisbon, Portugal

Assembly of fireworks above the district Alfama at new years eve in the portuguese capital.

Beautiful Lisbon with its iconic yellow trams trundling through narrow cobbled streets over seven hills. New Year’s Eve is a real treat and ideal for anyone who doesn't like to plan New Years 11 months in advance. After an unforgettable evening in the bars of Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré you can have brunch in the heart of the historic district or head by train to the nearby seaside towns Cascais and Estoril.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, 5. tbilisi, georgia.

Christmas and New year illuminations on the street of historical center of Tbilisi.

Tbilisi is probably the most original choice is this ranking, a trend that is also due to the attractive prices of accommodation (up to five times cheaper than in London or Paris with a stay in a five-star hotel in Tbilisi for the price of a three-star in Berlin), safety (low crime rates) and easy access for British and American travellers (special non-visa regulations). It’s also a favorite destination for foodies and wine lovers. Sublimely decorated for Christmas and New Year celebrations, Tbilisi extends the Christmas spirit until mid-January. Many public concerts are organized to celebrate the New Year, the Christmas market of Tbilisi ranks among the most beautiful in Europe.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

New Years Eve in Prague at night with the view on Charles Bridge and historic center.

The Czech Capital is another economical capital for a new year in Europe; it’s well known for its inexpensive beers. Prague celebrates the New Year with numerous festivities, outdoor concerts, fireworks and many private parties in restaurants, nightclubs and bars. As New Year’s Eve in Prague is so popular, it is recommended to book accommodation in Prague in advance as well as tours and activities such as a " Prague Pub Crawl ." A more refined option is a New Year's Eve dinner with a cruise on the river.

7. Ibiza, Spain

Happy friends dancing at party night inside vintage cocktail bar with dj set

For hardcore clubbers, New Year Ibiza is a top choice. Known for its evenings bringing together the best DJs, the best dancers, the biggest shows in Europe, Ibiza also means lazing around, beaches, outdoor sports, nautical activities, seaside restaurants: the perfect mix of fiesta and idleness. Celebrate the New Year at the Paccha, at the Amnesia, or in the conceptual "Ushuaia Beach Hotel" a hotel-Nightclub that offers non-stop parties, from the balcony of your room.

8. Sao Miguel, Azores

Azores Sao Miguel, Miradouro da Vista do Rei, Sete Cidades

For city dwellers looking for wide open spaces and nature, celebrate New Year's Eve in The Azores. Every year a fireworks display is fired from Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores on the main island of Sao Miguel, many festivities are organized such as public concerts and you can prolong the party in the bars and restaurants of Ponta Delgada. After a party with a tad too much Gin des Azores and Vinho Verde, treat yourself to a detox in a wellness hotel or in the many natural thermal spots of the Azores such as Furnas Boutique Hotel. Furnas has the largest concentration of thermal waters in Europe.

9. Edinburgh, Scotland

View from the top of Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland. Looking across at bright fireworks ... [+] exploding over the city on New Year's Eve.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is ranked among the Best Christmas Markets in the United Kingdom and New Year’s Eve "Hogmanay” in Edinburgh is truly one of the best in Europe. A true institution, the New Year is celebrated from December 31 to January 3 with gigantic parties and open-air concerts that bring together local and international artists. A massive fireworks display is fired at midnight followed by festivities until the early hours in the streets and parks of Edinburgh.

10. Porto, Portugal

Fireworks over douro river in porto portugal

Porto is Lisbon’s laid-back sibling and a place that requires a little more work to fully appreciate its many delights. Overlooking the River Douro with its famous Port Wine lodges, the city certainly has all the views and the cobbled (often very hilly) streets and beautiful ceramic tiled buildings are charming. New Year’s Eve in Porto is legendary. The countdown in front of the city hall, followed by concerts and parties in the bars, restaurants, nightclubs, is a unique experience.

Ranked eleven to twenty:

Cozy street and old city walls at night with fireworks in Dubrovnik, Croatia

11. Dubrovnik, Croatia; 12. Brussels, Belgium; 13. Graz, Austria; 14. Rome, Italy; 15. Kitzbühel, Austria; 16. Stockholm, Sweden; 17. Tenerife, Canary Islands; 18. Gdansk, Poland; 19. Rovaniemi, Finland and 20. Reykjavik, Iceland.

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The best places to travel in 2024

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

Make 2024 your year to visit someplace you’ve never been. If you love adventure, then the untamed beauty of Iceland or vast wilderness of Montana should be top of your list, while foodies need to book it stat to the gastronomic hubs of Lima, Peru or Saimaa, Finland. From cities celebrating milestone years to destinations welcoming exciting new hotels and museums, these are the 20 best places to travel in 2024.

1 – Paris, France

One of the most visited cities in the world, Paris draws in millions of tourists every year in search of world-class art, food, and fashion, from the Louvre to the Champs-Élysées. The French capital is gearing up to host the 2024 Summer Olympics and making the city more environmentally friendly, including creating more cycle paths and cleaning up the Seine River. Whether you go during the Games or not, the City of Light offers incredible sights with must-see spots such as the iconic Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Jardin des Tuileries.

2 – Iceland

Known as the “ land of fire and ice ,” Iceland is Europe’s second-largest island after Great Britain and is home to magnificent glaciers and 32 active volcanoes. Recognized as one of Europe’s “it” destinations by Travel + Leisure , this island boasts untamed landscapes, famous hot springs, and mesmerizing northern lights (the best time to spot this elusive natural phenomenon is from mid-October through March). A must-visit for first-timers is the Blue Lagoon , a geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters and remarkable healing powers.

3 - Sardinia, Italy

Among its many charms, what makes Sardinia so appealing is its stunning coastline, white sandy beaches, ancient archaeological sites, and tranquil villages. Sardinia is not only the second-largest island in Italy, but is home to the famous Costa Smeralda coastline, the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Su Nuraxi di Barumini , and a two-million-year-old cave in Capo Caccia. Plus, the island has also been identified as a Blue Zones region , an area known for health and longevity thanks to the diet, work habits, and traditions of its residents.

Voted one of the best countries in the world in the Cond é Nast Traveller 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards, Japan recently reopened its borders to international travel after the pandemic, making 2024 the perfect year to take that trip. Japan’s former capital Kyoto is a must-visit, and recently developed a code of conduct for sustainable tourism to encourage visitors to follow local customs and consider the environment. Tokyo is teeming with excitement from its historic temples to soaring skyscrapers, while Okinawa offers stunning white sand beaches and numerous UNESCO heritage sites.

5 – Prince Edward Island, Canada

The maritime province of Prince Edward Island is home to charming small towns, red sandy beaches, and the fictional setting found in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables . In 2024, the province will be celebrating the 150 th birthday of author Montgomery, and the 60 th anniversary of the Confederation Centre of the Arts , where the Anne of Green Gables musical will be hitting the stage. Other musts while in P.E.I. include biking or hiking the Confederation Trail, spotting one of the islands’ 63 lighthouses, and dining on the local catch of lobster, mussels, and oysters.

6 – São Miguel, Portugal

The biggest island in the Azores archipelago, São Miguel is nicknamed “The Green Island” (it’s also been called the “ Hawaii of Europe ”) because of its lush and dramatic landscape featuring black sand beaches. The volcanic crater lake Lagoa do Fogo, at the centre of the island, is considered a must-see because of its beautiful vistas and hiking opportunities. Whale watching is also a popular activity to book, as the Azores is one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries, with more than 20 different cetacean species swimming in the waters.

7 – Luxor, Egypt

With its rich history and ancient monuments, Egypt is a bucket list destination that should be on your radar for 2024. Aside from Cairo, the obvious choice, you should consider heading to Luxor , offering a more relaxed vibe than the capital, but with plenty of adventure. Located on the Nile River, Luxor is often referred to as an “open-air museum” because of its famous ruins, including the Valley of the Kings , the Karnak Temple complex, and the Luxor Temple.

8 – Lima, Peru

Deemed South America’s culinary capital by National Geographic , Lima is a city bursting with flavour and excitement. For many travellers, Lima is merely a pitstop on the way to Machu Picchu, but there is a lot to see and taste in this Peruvian capital. It’s home to some of the best restaurants and bars in the world, including Central, run by Michelin-star chef Pía León , named the best female chef in the world in 2021. When you’re not eating, wander the Miraflores district for shopping, visit the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana, or pop into the Museum of Art (MALI) .

9 – Seville, Spain

The capital of Andalusia and the largest city in southern Spain , Seville is famous for its Moorish buildings, flamenco dancing, and fascinating history. It’s home to not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the impressive Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic building in the world. Other must-see wonders include the picturesque Plaza de España , the Setas de Sevilla (the largest wooden structure in the world), and the Real Maestranza, the oldest bullring in the world. With over 3,000 tapas bars across the city, it’s the only way to dine out.

10 – Maui, Hawaii, USA

In 2023, devastating wildfires swept across Lahaina, displacing thousands and killing almost 100 people. It can be confusing to know what to do as a traveller, but Maui residents are saying it’s okay to visit as long as guests come respectfully and with compassion. Because Maui relies on tourism to fuel its economy, the Hawaiian Tourism Authority is encouraging tourists to buy local, eat local, and enjoy the island’s many incredible attractions. Driving the Hana Highway, watching the sunrise at Haleakala, and relaxing on one of its stunning beaches should all be on your itinerary.

11 – Montana, USA

With its pristine lakes, eight national parks, and scenic mountain ranges, Montana is a world-class destination that’s perfect to visit any time of year. The U.S. News & World Report even named Glacier National Park the No. 1 spot on their Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023-2024. At this destination made for outdoor enthusiasts, you can hit the slopes at Montana’s Big Sky Resort , stay up late and gaze at the Milky Way or take a scenic hike to catch a glimpse of wildlife.

12 – Nordland, Norway

Northern Norway’s Nordland region is home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country, filled with majestic glaciers, spectacular fjords and breathtaking coastlines. Set to open in 2024, the luxurious Six Senses Svart located just above the Arctic Circle, will be the world’s first energy-positive hotel, running entirely off-grid. Also in the region is the town of Bodø, which is one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2024 , known for its annual Parken musical festival, street art, and boutique shops.

13 – Tainan, Taiwan

As the oldest city on the island, the ancient capital of Tainan is known for its temples, traditions, and vibrant food scene . In 2024, the city will be celebrating its 400 th anniversary, marked by the annual Taiwan Lantern Festival , making it the perfect year to go. Things to do in Tainan include visiting the Tainan Art Museum, shopping and eating at the famed Hua Yuan Night Market , and exploring the historic sites in the Anping District.

14 – Saimaa, Finland

Finland’s Saimaa region was awarded the title of European Region of Gastronomy 2024 to celebrate the area’s unique food culture. Saimaa is Finland’s largest lake, has the world’s longest lake coastline, and boasts an incredible 13,710 islands. When it comes to food, the freshwater vendace fish is a specialty in the region, while the sweet or savoury l örtsy pastries are best enjoyed from the Savonlinna Market Square. From kayaking through the maze-like island chains to experiencing a traditional wood-heated sauna, there’s plenty to do in this enchanting destination.

15 – San Diego, California, USA

The sunny city of San Diego has more than just pristine beaches and perfect weather—in 2024 the city will be designated as the World Design Capital (along with Tijuana, Mexico). Recently welcoming the newly completed Horton Campus, an adaptive reuse space with shops, offices, and dining, the city is also revamping numerous hotels including the iconic Hotel del Coronado, and reopened the historic The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe after a multimillion-dollar renovation. Foodies will be pleased to know about the newly Michelin-star appointed Valle , and the soon-to-open, farm-to-table restaurant Cellar Hand.

16 – Costa Rica

Tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and thrilling activities are just some of the many reasons that make Costa Rica an amazing place to visit. Considered one of the planet’s prime ecotourism destinations , the country protects 25% of its territory with national parks, wildlife refuges, and reserves. In 2024, there will be a handful of new hotels opening, including the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve, but there are tons of boutique and all-inclusive options for every type of traveller.

17 – Seoul, South Korea

From K-pop to critically acclaimed TV dramas and movies (like the Oscar-winning Parasite ), the world is loving the Korean wave of pop culture, food, and tech coming out of this Asian country. Seoul merges the past with the present with futuristic buildings sitting beside ancient Buddhist temples. Immerse yourself in local culture at the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace or the National Museum of Korea. And Korea is all about food, which is why you can’t leave without trying many of their delicious dishes , from cold noodles to savoury Pajeon (green onion pancakes).

18 – Quito, Ecuador

Making Condé Nast Traveller ’s Best Places to Go in 2024, the capital of Ecuador sits on the Andean foothills, atop the ruins of an Inca city. The first city to receive a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation , Quito has a well-preserved historic centre with must-see sites including the Basílica del Voto Nacional, the Plaza de la Independencia, and the renowned Plaza de San Francisco. The culinary scene in Quito is heating up with buzzy restaurants like Nuema , home to Pía Salazar, who was crowned The World’s Best Pastry Chef in 2023.

19 – New York City, USA

When isn’t a good time to visit the Big Apple? New York City was ranked the No. 3 city in the world by Resonance , which looks at not just what it’s like for visitors but factors including livability (like walkability) and lovability (think Instagram hashtags). Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, there’s always something new to see and do in NYC, so head to The Met , take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, ride the elevator up the Empire State Building or dine out at one of the city’s best restaurants .

20 – Mauritius

A small African island in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius draws in visitors searching for sun, sand, and relaxation. But there’s more to this idyllic destination than its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, including newly opened cultural spots like the Intercontinental Slavery Museum and the House of Digital Art (HODA) . Adventure seekers should consider hiking the Black River Gorges National Park or the majestic Le Morne Brabant. Snorkelling is also top-notch here, with dozens of incredible locations to swim amongst the majestic sea life.

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Where are the cicadas? Use this interactive map to find Brood XIX, Brood XIII in 2024

In a few weeks, over a dozen states will be abuzz as trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from their yearslong underground stay.

Broods XIX and XIII will emerge in a combined 17 states, mostly in the Midwest and Southeast, in a rare, double brood event . These two broods last emerged together 221 years ago, and after this year are not predicted to do so again until 2245.

Once conditions are right, the two broods will emerge in massive numbers to feed, make noise, mate and die. Here's what to know about where to find the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII.

2024 double cicada broods: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX will emerge

The two cicada broods will emerge in a combined 17 states across the Southeast and Midwest, with an overlap in parts of Illinois and Iowa. They will emerge once soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in mid-May and lasting through late June.

The two broods last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a periodical cicada?

Both the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII are periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years across North America. They differ from annual cicadas, which emerge every year.

You may remember the last periodical brood to emerge in huge numbers: the 17-year Brood X that was found in 2021 throughout the Midwest and Eastern Seaboard.

Annual cicadas, which are dark green to black with green wing veins, are  typically larger than periodical cicadas , which are recognizable for their red eyes, red legs and red wing veins, according to North Carolina State University Extension.

Periodical cicadas emerge earlier, usually in mid-to-late May as opposed to annual cicadas in July and August. According to North Carolina State University Extension, annual cicadas begin mating, " singing conspicuously " and lying eggs about two weeks after they emerge. Their first nymphs will fall to the ground and begin feeding on roots under the soil, and fully-developed nymphs will emerge two years later and molt into adults.

Above ground, periodical cicadas have a similar life cycle, appear in much larger numbers and are much louder. At the end of their season, the next generation of nymphs move underground and remain for either 13 or 17 years.

Maps of Two Cicada Broods, Reunited After 221 Years

By Jonathan Corum

This spring, two broods of cicadas will emerge in the Midwest and the Southeast, in their first dual appearance since 1803.

A cicada lays eggs in an apple twig.

“Insects: Their Ways and Means of Living,” by Robert E. Snodgrass, 1930, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

Brood XIII , the Northern Illinois Brood, hatched and burrowed into the ground 17 years ago, in 2007.

Brood XIX , the Great Southern Brood, hatched in 2011 and has spent 13 years underground, sipping sap from tree roots.

Historic maps adapted from “The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library; modern brood maps adapted from Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University

The entomologist Charles L. Marlatt published a detailed map of Brood XIX , the largest of the 13-year cicada broods, in 1907.

He also mapped the expected emergence of Brood XIII in 1922.

This spring the two broods will surface together, and are expected to cover a similar range.

Up to a trillion cicadas will rise from the warming ground to molt, sing, mate, lay eggs and die.

A Name and a Number

Charles L. Marlatt proposed using Roman numerals to identify the regional groups of 13- and 17-year periodical cicadas, beginning with Brood I in 1893.

A brood can include up to three or four cicada species, all emerging at the same time and singing different songs . Long cicada lifespans of 13 or 17 years spent underground have spawned many theories , and may have evolved to reduce the likelihood of different broods surfacing at the same time.

Large broods might sprawl across a dozen or more states, while a small brood might only span a few counties. Brood VII is the smallest, limited to a small part of New York State and at risk of disappearing.

At least two named broods are thought to have vanished: Brood XXI was last seen in 1870, and Brood XI in 1954.

Not Since the Louisiana Purchase

Brood XIII and Brood XIX will emerge together this year, for the first time in more than two centuries. But only in small patches of Illinois are they likely to come out of the ground in the same place.

Maps adapted from “An Historical Geography of the United States,” 1911, via the Library of Congress

In 1786 and 1790, the two broods burrowed into Native lands, divided by the Mississippi River into nominally Spanish territory and the new nation of the United States.

Brood XIII entered the ground in 1786, and Brood XIX in 1790. (Expected 2024 ranges are overlaid on the map.)

As the ground was warming in April 1803, France sold the rights to the territory of Louisiana, which it acquired from Spain in 1800, to the United States for $15 million.

That spring, Brood XIII and Brood XIX emerged together into a newly enlarged United States.

Their descendants — 13 and 17 generations later — are now poised to return, and will not sing together again until 2245.

A ‘Great Visitation’

After an emergence of Brood X cicadas in 1919, the naturalist Harry A. Allard wrote:

Although the incessant concerts of the periodical cicadas persisting from morning until night became almost disquieting at times, I felt a positive sadness when I realized that the great visitation was over, and there was silence in the world again, and all were dead that had so recently lived and filled the world with noise and movement.

It was almost a painful silence, and I could not but feel that I had lived to witness one of the great events of existence, comparable to the occurrence of a notable eclipse or the invasion of a great comet .

Then again the event marked a definite period in my life, and I could not but wonder how changed would be my surroundings, my experiences, my attitude toward life, should I live to see them occur again seventeen years later.

The transformation of a cicada nymph (1) , into an adult (10) .

“The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

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Kentucky Derby 2024 Horses: Full List of Competitors, Odds & More

Everything you need to know about the field for the 2024 Kentucky Derby.

• Author: Liam McKeone

The 150th Kentucky Derby will be run on Saturday, May 4, at the famous Churchill Downs racecourse. The sesquicentennial celebration is shaping up to be a good one, with a loaded field of competitors backed by the always-high energy surrounding the Louisville race track. It should be a memorable race.

As post time approaches, it is important to take stock of the horses the audience will see on the racetrack and the odds each has to win. Part of what makes the Derby so popular is that there are very few regular competitors. The audience is annually introduced to a new grouping of horses and jockeys. There is comfort in the familiar, true, but there's always something special about the Derby and the horse that gets to capture lightning in the bottle yearly.

Here's what this year's crop looks like.

Kentucky Derby Horses 2024

Below is a full list of the 20 horses (and their morning line odds to win , as of time of publication) participating in this year's Kentucky Derby, as per the event's official website .

Fierceness: 5-2 Sierra Leone: 3-1 Catching Freedom: 8-1 Forever Young: 10-1 Just A Touch: 10-1 Dornoch: 20-1 Honor Marie: 20-1 Just Steel: 20-1 Track Phantom: 20-1 Stronghold: 20-1 Reilience: 20-1 Mystik Dan: 20-1 Catalyic: 30-1 T O Password: 30-1 Endlessly: 30-1 Domestic Product: 30-1 Epic Ride: 30-1 Grand Mo The First: 50-1 Society Man: 50-1 West Saratoga: 50-1

The group features horses with straightforward favorites and other underdogs and great storylines, like West Saratoga, whose trainer is battling cancer.

How Many Horses Race in the Kentucky Derby?

Each year, 20 horses are permitted to run in the Kentucky Derby. It was not always this way, however. The first Kentucky Derby, held 150 years ago, had 15 horses in the field and the number fluctuated from year to year until 1974. That year's Derby featured 23 horses, which prompted criticism from assembled media and the jockeys themselves. From 1974 on, the Derby was capped at 20 horses to ensure the field was competitive without putting too many bodies on the racetrack.

It's also part of what makes the Derby unique. Other major horse races, such as the Preakness and Belmot Stakes, have a maximum of 14 horses participating every year. When the question was raised a few years ago of why the Derby stuck with 20 instead of whittling down the field to match other events of its ilk, the length and popularity of the race was cited by Churchill Downs' senior director of communications, per the Courier-Journal .

In short, the Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance permits there to be more horses on the track, and as the capstone event of the year it can be afforded a larger field.

How Does a Horse Qualify For the Kentucky Derby?

To qualify for the 2024 Kentucky Derby, each horse in the field had to run in a series of designated races, titled The Road to the Kentucky Derby. These races, which number in the dozens, take place all over the world between each Derby. The top five horses in each race are awarded a certain number of points.

At the end of the racing season, the top 20 horses in terms of points totaled throughout the year are awarded a post at the Kentucky Derby.

Now you're primed and ready to engage in the horse racing discourse for this year's Kentucky Derby. Enjoy the race.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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