New Years Eve Holidays: The Most Iconic Celebrations Around the World

April 17, 2025

When it comes to unforgettable New Years Eve holidays, where you choose to celebrate can make all the difference. Whether you’re into big city parties, romantic escapes, or something completely unique, this guide will help you find the perfect way to ring in the New Year.

As an independent UK travel agency and a proud member of Protected Trust Services, Jamie Wake Travel specialises in tailor-made holidays. We combine personal service with access to a wide range of trusted tour operators, so we can create a New Year break that’s right for you.

New Years Eve Holidays in Sydney, Australia

Visit Sydney for New Years Eve with Jamie Wake Travel

If you want to be among the first in the world to welcome the New Year, Sydney is the place. The city’s Harbour Bridge and Opera House create a stunning backdrop for a fireworks display that lights up the sky.

  • Highlights: Fireworks over Sydney Harbour, live music, cruises, and beachfront parties.
  • Where to stay: The Park Hyatt Sydney offers front-row views of the fireworks from private balconies.

Ask us about offers available for this hotel during New Years Eve holidays.


Jamie Says:

Sydney sets the standard for New Year celebrations. We’ve helped many clients get exclusive access to events and luxury views that most people only dream of.


Ring in the New Year in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh for New Years Eve with Jamie Wake Travel

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is one of Europe’s most iconic winter festivals. The celebration runs over multiple days and brings the streets of Scotland’s capital to life.

  • Highlights: Street parties, torchlight processions, ceilidh dancing, and fireworks over Edinburgh Castle.
  • Where to stay: Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian offers luxury and prime access to all the festivities.

We can tailor your Scottish New Year break with premium hotel deals—just ask.

Celebrate New Years Eve Holidays in New York City, USA

Times Square is legendary for its ball drop and electrifying atmosphere. Millions tune in to watch, but being there in person is something else entirely.

  • Highlights: Live performances, confetti showers, rooftop bars, and boat parties on the Hudson River.
  • Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Lower East Side gives you rooftop views and easy access to the action.

Enquire now for possible New Year packages with upgraded city views.

A Magical New Year in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik’s New Year celebrations are full of local traditions, bonfires, and dramatic fireworks. The city lights up with joy and warmth despite the winter chill.

  • Highlights: Bonfires across the city, firework displays, bars that open after midnight.
  • Where to stay: Canopy by Hilton is ideally located near the Hallgrímskirkja Church where the party peaks.

Ask us about winter packages to Iceland including geothermal spa access.

Say Hello to 2025 in Dubai, UAE

Dubai is known for doing everything on a grand scale. New Year’s Eve here is no different, with massive fireworks at the Burj Khalifa and luxurious galas across the city.

  • Highlights: Fireworks at Burj Khalifa, desert parties, luxury yacht cruises.
  • Where to stay: Atlantis The Royal offers opulence and front-row views of citywide celebrations.

We can help you upgrade to a room with fireworks views—just ask.

Party in Style in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam offers a mix of street parties, stylish events, and cosy canal-side celebrations. It’s a relaxed but energetic way to enter the New Year.

  • Highlights: Public fireworks displays, live DJ sets, and the Amsterdam Light Festival.
  • Where to stay: Doubletree Hilton Amsterdam with its rooftop SkyLounge is perfect for festive views.

Get in touch to find out if exclusive party tickets are available with your stay.

Toast the New Year in Paris, France

Paris is romantic year-round, but the city sparkles even more during New Year’s Eve. The Eiffel Tower becomes the centrepiece for celebrations.

  • Highlights: Countdown on the Champs-Élysées, river cruises on the Seine, gourmet dinners.
  • Where to stay: Hotel Le Meurice combines elegance and central access to festivities.

Ask us about dining packages and Seine cruise bundles for your Paris break.

Welcome the New Year in Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers a fascinating blend of modern and traditional celebrations. You can start the night at a Shinto shrine and end it in a neon-lit nightclub.

  • Highlights: Temple bell ringing at midnight, countdown events in Shibuya, first sunrise viewing.
  • Where to stay: Park Hotel Tokyo provides modern comfort and artistic flair.

Let us help you include cultural experiences and guided tours in your Tokyo itinerary.

New Years Eve Holidays in Cape Town, South Africa

Celebrate summer-style in Cape Town, where New Year’s Eve means beach parties, sunset views, and Table Mountain as a dramatic backdrop.

  • Highlights: Fireworks at V&A Waterfront, rooftop bars, Clifton Beach parties.
  • Where to stay: The Silo Hotel offers luxury with unbeatable harbour views.

We can tailor your South African adventure with safari extensions or wine tours.

Vienna, Austria: A Classical New Year Celebration

If you’re looking for elegance and tradition, Vienna’s New Year’s Eve is full of waltzes, classical music, and historical charm.

  • Highlights: The New Year’s Trail in the city centre, gala dinners, Strauss concerts.
  • Where to stay: Hotel Sacher is perfect for a refined, luxurious experience.

Ask about ticketed events and dinner concerts for an unforgettable evening.

Prague, Czech Republic: Fireworks Over a Fairytale City

Prague turns into a winter wonderland for the New Year. Gothic spires, riverside views, and charming old squares set the scene.

  • Highlights: Fireworks by the Charles Bridge, Vltava River cruises, street food and music.
  • Where to stay: The Cosmopolitan offers modern luxury in the heart of historic Prague.

We can help secure dining reservations and celebration cruises to enhance your Prague break.

Bangkok, Thailand: A Night to Remember

Bangkok’s New Year festivities combine cultural events and vibrant nightlife. It’s a city that truly comes alive when the clock strikes midnight.

  • Highlights: Countdown at CentralWorld, rooftop parties, river cruises with fireworks.
  • Where to stay: Lebua at State Tower offers a rooftop bar made famous by Hollywood.

Ask about including beach time in Phuket or Krabi to extend your Thai adventure.

Plan Your New Years Eve Holidays with Jamie Wake Travel

Every destination brings its own magic to the final night of the year. Whether you dream of dancing under fireworks, dining by candlelight, or exploring a new culture, we’re here to make it happen.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all packages. Your holiday should be as unique as you are. As a trusted member of Protected Trust Services, we offer financial security, flexibility, and a personal touch. With access to top suppliers and insider knowledge, we tailor every trip to your exact needs.

Ready to start your next adventure?

Call Jamie Wake Travel today on 01495 400005  or use our holiday enquiry form on the website to build your dream New Years Eve holiday.

Let’s make your next countdown one to remember.

Best Places to See Northern Lights Europe (2026) – Less Cold, Fewer Crowds
By Jamie Wake February 20, 2026
Discover the best places to see northern lights Europe in 2026 with fewer crowds and less extreme cold. Compare Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Scotland, plus expert UK travel tips and protected booking advice.
First Time Ski Holidays Europe: Costs, Gear & Resorts
By Jamie Wake February 19, 2026
First time ski holidays Europe made simple: real costs, gear checklist, resort chooser, best beginner resorts, lessons plan and FAQs for UK travellers.
Luxury Feeling Holidays on a Budget: Smart Planning Guide
By Jamie Wake February 17, 2026
Discover how to plan luxury feeling holidays on a budget with smart timing, upgrades and expert strategies for UK travellers.
Nature Holidays Europe for Slower and More Meaningful Travel
By Jamie Wake February 16, 2026
Discover nature holidays Europe designed for slower, meaningful travel. Explore lakes, forests and wildlife with expert UK planning and protection.
Cultural City Breaks Europe: History, Food & Value
By Jamie Wake February 15, 2026
Discover cultural city breaks Europe travellers love, blending rich history, incredible food and real value for unforgettable UK weekend escapes.
Spring Break vs Easter Holidays: Best Time to Travel
By Jamie Wake February 14, 2026
Spring break vs easter holidays – compare prices, crowds, weather and the best weeks to travel from the UK.
Northern Lights Trips from UK: Flights & Best Time
By Jamie Wake February 13, 2026
Plan northern lights trips from UK with expert advice on flights, best time to go, destinations, costs and what to expect.
Easy Ski Resorts Europe for Beginners
By Jamie Wake February 12, 2026
Discover the best easy ski resorts Europe offers with gentle slopes and great après for beginners. Expert UK guide.
Winter Wonderland Destinations Without High Prices
By Jamie Wake February 11, 2026
Discover magical winter wonderland destinations in Europe that feel festive and snowy — without high prices. Smart UK travel tips included.
Winter Honeymoon Destinations: Best for Romance & Value
By Jamie Wake February 10, 2026
Discover the best winter honeymoon destinations for romance, snow and value — with expert UK planning advice.
Show More