Things to do in Paris on New Year’s Eve 🎇

Ah, Paris – where even the countdown feels chic. If you’re lucky enough to be in the French capital for New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. There are so many magical things to do in Paris on New Year’s Eve, from Eiffel Tower sparkles and riverside strolls to glamorous dinners and cabaret shows.

Whether you want romance, champagne, or a midnight cruise, Paris brings the charm in spades.

I’m Hazel, a travel blogger who’s hopelessly in love with Paris (especially Paris at night). After a few NYEs spent strolling the Seine with vin chaud in hand, I’ve rounded up all the best ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Paris – from the iconic to the unexpected.

From romantic river cruises to raucous street parties, here’s how to say bonne année in true Parisian style.

1. Celebrate on the Champs-Élysées 🎉

Every year, Parisians and tourists flock to the Champs-Élysées for a massive (and totally free) street party. The Arc de Triomphe becomes a huge projection screen, there’s music in the air, and the energy is off the charts.

There are no official fireworks at the Eiffel Tower anymore, but the light show and countdown at the Arc is still dazzling.

🚇 Closest metro: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (expect queues!)

2. Toast with Bubbles on a Seine River Cruise 🥂

Want romance? You can’t beat a Seine river cruise for New Year’s Eve. Glide past the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the twinkling Eiffel Tower while sipping champagne and tucking into a multi-course French dinner.

Most cruises include live music and a midnight toast. Très élégant.

👉 Check Seine Cruises on Viator or GetYourGuide for bookings.

3. See the Eiffel Tower Sparkle at Midnight ✨

There are no official NYE fireworks at the Eiffel Tower these days, but it still puts on its signature twinkling light show every hour… and it’s magical, especially at midnight.

Best Eiffel Tower viewing spots:

• Trocadéro Gardens (classic and busy)
• Pont de Bir-Hakeim (gorgeous and slightly less chaotic)
• Champ de Mars (romantic if you’re wrapped up warm)

Bring a bottle of Crémant and toast in the glow.

4. Book a Fancy NYE Dinner or Tasting Menu 🍽️

Paris takes its food seriously, especially on New Year’s Eve. Most top restaurants offer a Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre – a special multi-course menu with all the trimmings: foie gras, oysters, truffles, and plenty of champagne.

Some fancier options:

• Le Train Bleu – opulent Belle Époque vibes in Gare de Lyon.
• Restaurant 58 Tour Eiffel – dine inside the Eiffel Tower.
• Bistrot Paul Bert – cosy and classic Paris bistro.

📍 Book early – tables fill up fast.

5. Dance the Night Away at a Parisian Club 💃🕺

From electro basements to rooftop bars, Paris has a party for every style. Many clubs throw ticketed NYE soirées with DJs, champagne, and the occasional costume theme.

Popular picks:

• Rex Club – for serious electronic beats.
• Wanderlust – riverside cool with lights and views.
• Chez Moune – a sultry little club in Pigalle.

No idea where to go? Look up listings on Time Out Paris or ParisNightlife.fr.

6. Get Glam at the Moulin Rouge or a Cabaret 🎭

If you want feathers, sequins, and champagne, why not go all in with a cabaret night?

Moulin Rouge throws a famously lavish NYE show, complete with a 6-course dinner and a bottle of bubbly per couple. Other fab options include Lido 2 Paris, Crazy Horse, and the jazzier Lapin Agile in Montmartre.

It’s kitsch, it’s classic – it’s so Paris.

7. Enjoy a Quiet Night in Montmartre 🌙

Not into big crowds? Montmartre is your quieter, quainter NYE alternative. Climb to Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best views over the city, and watch Paris twinkle into the New Year.

There are usually impromptu gatherings here – expect sparklers, wine, and maybe an accordionist or two.

Grab a crêpe from a late-night stall and take a midnight stroll through the cobbled streets. Pure magic.

👉 Read more: Things to do in Montmartre, Paris.

FAQs About New Year’s Eve in Paris 💡

Some questions and answers to help you plan your New Year’s Eve in Paris, France.

Are there fireworks at the Eiffel Tower?

Not anymore, but the tower sparkles every hour on the hour, including midnight. The Arc de Triomphe hosts the official light show.

Is it safe to be out in Paris on NYE?

Yes, but expect crowds and security checks. Stick to well-lit areas and watch your bag, especially on the metro.

Do I need to book restaurants or events in advance?

Yes, definitely. Paris loves a plan – NYE dinners, cruises, and shows book up fast. Look for “Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre” menus.

Is the metro open on New Year’s Eve?

Yes, and it’s often free from about 5pm to 2am! Several lines run all night too. Expect it to be busy.

What’s the weather like in Paris at NYE?

Cold! Bring layers, a good coat, and something warm for your hands. It’s usually dry but chilly – perfect for mulled wine.

Final Thoughts ✨

There’s no shortage of magical things to do in Paris on New Year’s Eve – grand or quiet, glamorous or low-key. You can party ‘til sunrise or share a midnight kiss on a bridge over the Seine. Either way, there’s something beautifully timeless about starting a new year in the City of Light.

Bonne année! 🎆

Related Posts You’ll Love 📚

Here are some further posts related to your Paris trip.

🇫🇷 The Perfect One Day in Central Paris: A First-Timer’s Guide
🌙 Paris Landmarks at Night: The Most Magical Sights After Dark.
🗺️ The Coolest Neighbourhoods in Paris (and Why You’ll Love Them).
🎆 Things to do in London on New Year’s Eve (as an alternative to Paris!)
🎆 The Best Cities in Europe to Celebrate New Year’s Eve.

Pinterest 📌

Planning your NYE in Paris? Save this guide to your Pinterest board and have the City of Light at your fingertips when the clock strikes midnight.