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.
See where is it best to go abroad for a New Year in grand style.
See why it's called the City of Light.
The Iron Lady
The global icon that sparkles for 5 minutes every hour on the hour.
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
Walk from Trocadéro for the best view.
Don't go up; the best view is OF the tower from Champ de Mars with a bottle of wine.
Floating Tour
A boat ride passing Notre Dame, the Louvre, and majestic bridges.
It's relaxing and offers the best vantage point of illuminated monuments.
Until 10:00 PM
Bateaux Mouches
1 hour
Piers near Pont de l'Alma.
Book a dinner cruise for a two-in-one experience.
Classic French comfort food.
Steak frites perfection.
Iconic literary cafe.
Art by day, party by night.
World's Greatest Museum
Home to the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo in a former royal palace.
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
Enter via the Carousel du Louvre to avoid pyramid lines.
Focus on one wing (e.g., Denon) to avoid burnout.
The Gathering Place
The grand avenue leading to the Arc de Triomphe, where the official countdown happens.
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
Metro stations on Line 1 will close; walk from Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Bring your own champagne (plastic cups only) but be prepared for security checks.
The big feast. Book months ahead.
Stunning historic setting.
Affordable classic vibe (no reservations).
A village feel to start the year.
Hilltop Views
White-domed church at the highest point in the city.
The panoramic view of Paris waking up to 2026 is breathtaking.
6:00 AM - 10:30 PM
Funicular
2 hours
Metro to Anvers then walk or funicular.
Explore the artist square Place du Tertre behind the church.
Sweet start to the year.
Authentic Breton crepes.
Famous hot chocolate.
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