The Open Road Travel

As the year comes to an end on the 31st of December, people all around the world gather to bring in the new calendar year together.

Some of the most common traditions include parties, making resolutions for the year ahead, watching fireworks displays, and, as the clock strikes midnight, singing along to the well-loved "Auld Lang Syne" with friends and family.

While there are countless cities and towns all over the world that hold New Year’s celebrations, there are some that top the rest.

I am going to show you six of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve around the world, to help you plan an unforgettable getaway.

Bringing in the New Year in New York City is a dream for many people. It is an incredibly popular New Year’s Eve destination, and millions of visitors travel annually to celebrate here.

The main focus on New Year’s Eve in New York is the Times Square ball. This is a prominent part of the celebrations in Times Square and is commonly referred to as the ball drop. This event makes New York City the best place to celebrate New Year's Eve for the countdown.

Live entertainment and performances take place in the run-up to the ball drop and at 11:59 p.m., the Ball starts its descent down a flagpole. Millions of voices countdown the final seconds of the year before being followed by fireworks when the clock hits midnight.

The event was first held on December 31st, 1907, to welcome in the new year. It has been held each year since, excluding 1942 and 1943, due to wartime blackouts.

If you don’t fancy spending the evening amongst the crowds in Times Square, other areas of the city also offer celebrations and firework displays.

If you’re travelling with children, I would suggest heading to Central Park, where kids of all ages can enjoy the festivities. Fireworks are launched at midnight in the centre of Central Park, and they can be seen from most spots in the park.

There are a number of other fun activities on offer in New York City. Cruises take place year-round and New Year’s Eve is not an exception.

Enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty surrounded by fireworks and toast the new year with champagne as the clock strikes midnight.

For an in-depth look at the best areas to stay in New York, take a look at our article here for a full guide on the top neighbourhoods.

The iconic Plaza Hotel is one of the finest and most famous hotels in New York City. It has accommodated some of the world's most famous guests and appeared in more than 50 films, including the well-loved Home Alone 2: Lost In New York.

Located on the corner of 5th Avenue, just a stone's throw from Central Park, it blends a convenient location with stunning views, perfect for watching the firework display in the park.

The hotel features luxurious, spacious rooms, complete with the latest technology and bathrooms with gold-plated fixtures, plus flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and iPads.

Upgrading to a suite gives guests city views, powder rooms, and butler's pantries. Room service is available, as is afternoon tea in The Palm Court.

With a collection of fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a spa, salon, and gym, it offers everything you would expect from this stunning, 5-star hotel.

Stay In New York If:

• You want to visit the famous Times Square
• You’d like to visit an iconic hotel
• You want to witness the tradition of the ball drop
  

New Year’s Eve is probably one of the best times to visit Scotland's capital. It is a top destination for celebrating the end of December and the start of January.

Hogmanay is the Scottish word for the last day of the old year. It is synonymous with the celebration of the New Year and Edinburgh’s 3-day Hogmanay festival has come to be one of the largest New Year’s celebrations in the world.

There is so much going on in the city that it may be hard to fit everything you would like to do, but there is really something for everyone.

If you want to stay in the best place to celebrate New Year’s Eve a bit differently, Edinburgh is the place to be.

The iconic torchlight procession takes place in the historic Royal Mile and consists of thousands of torchbearers marching to the beat of pipers, drummers, and fanfare.

Wander through Edinburgh’s Old Town accompanied by fire and light installations, before finishing this unforgettable event in the historic Holyrood Park with an amazing fireworks display.

Other events taking place in Edinburgh are a massive outdoor street party and concerts, plus the Edinburgh Castle fireworks display.

If you don’t feel like you’ve had enough excitement after the festivities on December 31st, on New Year’s Day, why not brave the cold and take part in the annual tradition known as the Loony Dook.

Just a few miles from the capital, the Loony Dook involves getting dressed up in fancy dress and marching through the streets of South Queensferry, before launching yourself into the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth.

Situated just 1 mile from Edinburgh Castle, Jurys Inn Edinburgh is the ideal accommodation for your NYE visit.

Jury’s Inn is located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, right beside the Royal Mile where the torchlight procession takes place.

The bright bedrooms feature large-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and spacious bathrooms with toiletries, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.

The relaxed, modern restaurant offers an international dinner menu, and the casual café/bar serves lunch and snacks, as well as hot drinks.

Other amenities at Jury’s Inn include computers in the lobby and 5 meeting rooms.

Stay In Edinburgh If:

• You want to witness a Viking-style torchlight procession. 
• You want three days worth of celebrations
• You want to do something a bit different for NYE 
  

Sydney is another popular city to spend New Year’s Eve in and is one of the first in the world to welcome the new year due to its location.

The Australian city’s fantastic firework display can be watched from many great vantage points and one of the best views is from Sydney’s highest bar, Bar 83 at Sydney Tower.

Sydney Tower is Sydney's tallest building, as well as the second tallest observation tower in the Southern Hemisphere, and offers unrivalled views of the city.

Visitors can eat, drink, and party the night away, while enjoying Sydney’s spectacular New year's Eve midnight fireworks from 83 levels above ground.

Another great spot to head to is Bradley’s Head. Bring along a picnic or buy some delicious food from a variety of stalls, then enjoy the live music throughout the afternoon and finish the evening watching the fireworks.

Due to its many beautiful vantage points, Sydney is the best place to celebrate New Year's Eve for firework displays.

If you fancy something a lot more energetic, Sydney’s only New Year’s Eve festival, NYE In The Park, boasts an amazing line-up of performers.

Taking place in Victoria Park’s natural amphitheatre, a beautiful oasis in the city, guests can dance the night away and enjoy tasty cuisine and beverages from the bars and food stalls on site.

If Sydney is the destination you’ve chosen to spend your New Year's Eve, check out our article here for a full guide on the best areas to stay in the city.

This upmarket hotel is located in a prime location, perfect for your NYE celebrations. Under a 10-minute walk from the Sydney Opera House, the Sir Stamford Circular Quay overlooks Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay.

The spacious, sophisticated rooms and suites offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and marble bathrooms with double vanities, plus mahogany executive work desks and tea and coffee making facilities. Some of the rooms also have balconies with stunning city views.

The hotel boasts an award-winning restaurant that has views of the Royal Botanic Gardens and offers modern Australian cuisine in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

The Highlander Whisky Bar serves a gourmet bar menu and a wonderful selection of fine whiskies, liqueurs, and cocktails.

Breakfast can be served in the restaurant or your room, plus there is an on-site fitness room and a sauna, as well as an outdoor heated pool with a sundeck.

Stay In Sydney If:



• You love a firework display
• You want to be in a warm destination for NYE
  

Known in France as La Réveillon de Saint Sylvestre, the evening of 31st December is an energetic night filled with dinners, cruises, and cabarets.

Paris holds some spectacular New Year's Eve events, and the French city is often named as one of the most romantic. For this reason, I would consider Paris the best place to celebrate New Year's Eve for couples.

What better way to spend your New Year’s Eve in Paris than at the world-renowned Parisian cabaret, the Moulin Rouge? Enjoy a delicious dinner with champagne, while watching an unforgettable show at Paris's greatest entertainment venue.

If you’d rather not splash out on an extravagant night at the Moulin Rouge, there are Christmas Markets and a laser light show at the famous Arc de Triomphe, which is located at the end of one of the most beautiful avenues, The Avenue des Champs Elysées.

The avenue will be shut down to traffic as crowds gather to celebrate and watch the show. Catching a glimpse of the show and the fireworks over the Arc de Triomphe is a must if you’ve chosen to visit the City of Light for New Year’s Eve.

However, if you don’t feel like joining the thousands of revellers at the Arc de Triomphe, why not head to the Montmartre neighbourhood.

Montmartre is a large hill in Paris that gives its name to the surrounding district. Located at the summit is the popular landmark, and the second-most visited monument in Paris, the Sacré Coeur.

The beautiful Sacré Coeur and its huge terrace offer a cinematic and slightly calmer view over the festivities.

This luxurious, 4-star hotel is situated in an exceptional location. Just a mere 450 yards from the Arc de Triomphe, you won’t miss out on any of the festivities if you decide to stay here.

The stylish rooms feature air-conditioning, a coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower.

Fresh breads and pastries are on offer at the buffet in the morning, as well as other continental breakfast options. There are also plenty of options surrounding the property where you can grab a fabulous lunch or dinner.

For when you want to relax after all the celebrating, Hotel Flanelles has a lovely spa with a sauna and steam room, plus a wellness centre.

The hotel has a 24-hour front desk and offers a concierge service and luggage storage for guests.

Stay In Paris If:

• You're travelling as a couple
• You would like to watch a cabaret
• You want to visit The City of Love

London's New Year's celebrations take place on a grand scale and South Bank is the focal point for the cities New Year's Eve festivities.

The chimes of Big Ben at midnight signify the start of the new year, and pyrotechnics and fireworks are launched along the River Thames and from the London Eye observation wheel.

Tickets to see the New Year’s Eve fireworks in London sell out very quickly, but the festivities can also be admired for free from spots such as Alexandra Palace, Primrose Hill, and Greenwich Park.

Visitors also have the option of river cruises, live music, and theatre performances, which all take place on the night.

Hop on to one of the New Year's Eve cruises on offer and choose from a sightseeing cruise, a traditional boat trip with champagne and live music, or even have dinner aboard while observing the spectacular views from the River Thames.

Many restaurants and bars in the city also host magnificent NYE celebrations.

Treat yourself to an unforgettable New Year’s Eve at The Rooftop, at The Trafalgar St James. With views of Trafalgar Square, delicious meals, and exceptional cocktails, there’s no better way to welcome the New Year.

There are always a wide range of parties, clubs, and shows that put on exciting events in London. This makes the city one of the best places to celebrate New Year's Eve for parties.

Be sure to keep an eye out on announcements and ticket sales so that you don’t miss out on anything.

If you’re going to be spending a few days in London, you may be interested in our article on some of the best places to eat in the city.

Right by the River Thames and next to Tower Bridge, sits the modern, 4-star Tower Hotel.

In the heart of some of London’s most iconic landmarks and famous locations, the Tower Hotel’s location is perfect for your NYE trip.

The hotel combines comfort and convenience and boasts unparalleled views. The 801 polished rooms feature tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.

Upgraded rooms include tower views, minibars, and access to a private lounge. They also come with a complimentary breakfast and all-day refreshments.

There is a sophisticated international restaurant and a brasserie on-site, as well as 2 bars with extensive drinks menus and stunning views.

Amenities include a fitness room and parking, plus a limo service is available for a fee.

The Tower Hotel is just a 7-minute walk from both the Tower of London and Tower Hill tube stations, making it incredibly easy to get around the city.

Stay In London If:

• You love a party
• You want to see iconic sights like Big Ben
  

Every year, thousands of tourists head to Hong Kong to enjoy the beauty of the city whilst celebrating the coming New Year.

Hong Kong knows how to celebrate, and this is evident on New Year’s Eve. As soon as Christmas is over, the celebrations begin and usually last till the Chinese New Year in February.

Hong Kong has so much to offer tourists and there is a variety of events that take place over NYE for children and adults alike. This makes it one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve with family.

Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong’s downtown area is one of the best areas to celebrate in the city. The amazing firework display takes place here as well as the vibrant light and sound show, Symphony of Lights.

Visitors to the energetic Victoria Harbour can also enjoy unique cruise rides and performances by popular artists and musicians.

The 60-metre-high Hong Kong observation wheel offers spectacular views of both sides of the Victoria Harbour and is enjoyed by those of all ages.

Hop on to the wheel before midnight to take in unobstructed and wonderful views of the area, then continue the celebrations on the ground where kids can ride on a carousel.

Families will also love The Great European Carnival. This lively annual extravaganza includes rides, games, food stalls, and circus performers.

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong boasts luxurious, refined rooms and suites overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Its floor-to-ceiling windows mean that you can enjoy the New Year’s Eve firework display from the comfort of your room if you don’t fancy facing the crowds.

All the spacious guestrooms are decorated with a blend of Western and Chinese elements. They feature a large flat-screen TV, a DVD player and an iPod dock, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.

The lavish marble ensuite bathrooms come with a bathtub and a separate walk-in rain shower. Upgraded rooms and suites add access to a lounge with free breakfast, drinks, and snacks.

Four Seasons Hong Kong is home to 2 Michelin award-winning restaurants and a cocktail bar.

Guests can enjoy dining on the terrace, with light meals, healthy smoothies, and frozen cocktails all available, along with spectacular views of Victoria Harbour. In-room dining is also available.

Guests can exercise at the 24-hour fitness centre, enjoy pampering massage treatments, steam rooms, and saunas at the spa, plus the hotel also provides laundry and babysitting services.

Stay In Hong Kong If:

• You are travelling with children
• You want to see a NYE carnival
  

Whilst countless parties and events are happening throughout the world on the evening of 31st December, some places are well known for their festivities.

This article should hopefully have helped you find the best place to visit for New Year’s Eve so that you can have the type of celebrations you desire.

Now get everything booked up as soon as possible to avoid missing out on some of the best happenings and make your next NYE one to remember.