Why Paris is Where is it Best to Go Abroad for a New Year
Choosing where is it best to go abroad for a New Year defines your start to 2026. Paris, the City of Light, offers a celebration of elegance, from river cruises to the massive street party on the Champs-Élysées.
This 3-day itinerary takes you through the heart of French culture. You'll dine in bistros, see masterpieces at the Louvre, and shout 'Bonne Année' with thousands of locals.
Your 3-Day Paris New Year Itinerary
See where is it best to go abroad for a New Year in grand style.
Day 1: Dec 30: Romantic Lights
See why it's called the City of Light.
Eiffel Tower
The Iron Lady
The global icon that sparkles for 5 minutes every hour on the hour.
Why You Should Visit:
Seeing it glitter at night is pure magic. It sets the mood for the trip.
9:30 AM - 10:45 PM
Metro to Bir-Hakeim
2 hours
How to Reach:
Walk from Trocadéro for the best view.
Insider Tip:
Don't go up; the best view is OF the tower from Champ de Mars with a bottle of wine.
Seine River Cruise
Floating Tour
A boat ride passing Notre Dame, the Louvre, and majestic bridges.
Why You Should Visit:
It's relaxing and offers the best vantage point of illuminated monuments.
Until 10:00 PM
Bateaux Mouches
1 hour
How to Reach:
Piers near Pont de l'Alma.
Insider Tip:
Book a dinner cruise for a two-in-one experience.
Day 1 Dining: Bistro
Classic French comfort food.
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
Steak frites perfection.
Café de Flore
Iconic literary cafe.
Day 2: Dec 31: The Countdown
Art by day, party by night.
The Louvre
World's Greatest Museum
Home to the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo in a former royal palace.
Why You Should Visit:
Soak up culture before the party. It validates Paris as where is it best to go abroad for a New Year for art lovers.
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Metro to Palais Royal
3 hours
How to Reach:
Enter via the Carousel du Louvre to avoid pyramid lines.
Insider Tip:
Focus on one wing (e.g., Denon) to avoid burnout.
Champs-Élysées
The Gathering Place
The grand avenue leading to the Arc de Triomphe, where the official countdown happens.
Why You Should Visit:
Join hundreds of thousands for the light show projected on the Arc followed by fireworks.
Arrive by 9:00 PM
Metro (Crowded)
Until 1:00 AM
How to Reach:
Metro stations on Line 1 will close; walk from Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Insider Tip:
Bring your own champagne (plastic cups only) but be prepared for security checks.
Day 2 Dining: Le Réveillon
The big feast. Book months ahead.
Le Train Bleu
Stunning historic setting.
Bouillon Chartier
Affordable classic vibe (no reservations).
Day 3: Jan 1: Montmartre
A village feel to start the year.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Hilltop Views
White-domed church at the highest point in the city.
Why You Should Visit:
The panoramic view of Paris waking up to 2026 is breathtaking.
6:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Funicular
2 hours
How to Reach:
Metro to Anvers then walk or funicular.
Insider Tip:
Explore the artist square Place du Tertre behind the church.
Day 3 Dining: Crepes
Sweet start to the year.
La Crêperie de Josselin
Authentic Breton crepes.
Angelina
Famous hot chocolate.