7 Epic Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in France
There’s no shortage of ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in France. Not sure where to begin? Here are 7 ideas to make your time in France unforgettable as you welcome the new year!
1. Paris: Dinner Cruise and Eiffel Tower Light Show
In Paris, a dinner cruise on the Seine gives you a unique view of the city. You’ll pass famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre while enjoying a gourmet dinner. Many cruise options offer live music and Champagne.
At midnight, the Eiffel Tower puts on a spectacular light show, a magical way to ring in the new year. The Champ de Mars offers one of the best views for watching the fireworks and the tower’s sparkling lights.
2. Nice: Gala at Hotel Negresco and Fireworks
Nice is a fantastic destination for a glamorous New Year’s Eve. The iconic Hotel Negresco, with its pink dome, is famous for hosting a luxurious New Year’s Eve gala. You can enjoy a gourmet dinner, live entertainment, and dancing. Afterward, head to the Promenade des Anglais to watch fireworks over the Mediterranean Sea. The area is lively, with many cafes and bars open late into the night.
3. Chamonix: Skiing and Partying at Le Chambre Neuf
Chamonix is awesome if you want to combine skiing with lively nightlife. Hit the slopes of Mont Blanc during the day, then head to Le Chambre Neuf, one of the most popular après-ski bars in Chamonix. Known for its fun vibe, live music, and energetic crowd, it’s a great place to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The bar is packed with people enjoying drinks and dancing, and at midnight, you can watch the fireworks with the stunning mountain views as your backdrop.
4. Lyon: Dinner at Auberge du Pont de Collonges and Fireworks at Place Bellecour
For a truly unforgettable New Year’s Eve, dine at Auberge du Pont de Collonges, Paul Bocuse’s legendary Michelin-starred restaurant just outside Lyon. An iconic place for exquisite French cuisine and elegance – a luxurious setting to start the evening. Afterward, head to Place Bellecour, one of the largest squares in France, where the city hosts a public celebration. At midnight, enjoy the stunning fireworks display over the Rhône River.
5. Bordeaux: Wine Tasting at Château Pape Clément and Fireworks
Bordeaux is famous for its wine, and there’s no better way to experience it than with a wine tasting at Château Pape Clément. The vineyard has private tours where you can learn about Bordeaux wines and taste some of the region’s best. Afterward, head to Place des Quinconces, one of the most beautiful squares in Bordeaux, for the New Year’s Eve fireworks. They are set off over the Garonne River where the lights beautifully reflect on the water.
6. Marseille: Dinner at Le Petit Nice and Fireworks at the Old Port
In Marseille, you can have an amazing dinner at Le Petit Nice, a Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the sea, with high-quality seafood and stunning views. After dinner, head to the Vieux-Port (Old Port), the heart of Marseille. The port area is filled with energy on New Year’s Eve, with street performers, music, and celebrations. The fireworks show over the water in this historic city is an unforgettable experience.
7. Strasbourg: Christmas Markets and Fireworks at Place Kléber
Strasbourg, often considered the “Capital of Christmas,” is one of the most enchanting places to visit during the holiday season. The city’s famous Christmas markets are open until New Year’s Eve, offering handmade crafts and festive food. After exploring the markets, enjoy a meal at Le Cygne, a renowned Alsatian restaurant that serves hearty regional dishes like choucroute and tarte flambée. In the evening, head to Place Kléber, where the city hosts a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.