The 14 Best New Year Destinations Worldwide for 2025

Get planning your New Year holiday with our countdown of the best New Year's destinations for 2025. Why spend New Year 2025 in the UK when you could spend it in an exotic, far-flung destination? Our list of the best NYE destinations is packed with unique, international destinations for New Year so you can ring in the bells like never before.

But before that, let's uncover exactly why we even celebrate New Year and unpack the unique New Year celebrations of specific countries.

How To Plan Your New Year's Break Abroad

Why Do We Celebrate New Year's Eve?

New Year's Eve, the ultimate global party, has a fascinating history rooted in tradition and change. Originally tied to Christian tradition, it was named after Pope Silvester I, who led the Roman Catholic Church with zeal. The date, December 31st, marks his appointment as pope in 314 and his passing in 355.

Fast forward to 1582, when the Gregorian calendar took centre stage, moving the official last day of the year to December 31st. This shift ignited the worldwide tradition of celebrating New Year's Eve, giving people a reason to come together and celebrate fresh beginnings. While the historical link might be obscure today, the spirit of this joyous occasion still unites us all.

How Different People Celebrate New Year Around the World

On New Year's Eve, it's fascinating to see how different cultures and communities put their unique spin on the night. Here's a glimpse into how people celebrate New Year's Eve in different countries:

• Japan: In Japan, New Year's Eve, known as "Omisoka," is a time for reflection and cleansing. People visit temples and shrines to ring large bells 108 times, symbolising the 108 human sins in Buddhist belief. It's tradition to eat "toshikoshi soba," or year-crossing noodles, to bring good luck and longevity in the coming year.
• Spain: Spaniards have a unique NYE tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight, one for each chime of the clock. If you manage to eat all the grapes in time, you're said to be in for a year of good luck and prosperity.
• Brazil: In Brazil, many people dress in all-white attire on New Year's Eve to symbolise peace and purity. At midnight, crowds gather on beaches to offer flowers, candles, and small boats filled with offerings to Yemanjá, the goddess of the sea. It's a beautiful and spiritual way to welcome the new year.
• Scotland: In Scotland, the first person to enter a home after the stroke of midnight is called the "first footer." This tradition holds that the first footer should bring symbolic gifts like coins, bread, salt, and whisky to ensure good fortune for the household in the coming year.
• Greece - Pomegranate Smashing: Greeks have a playful tradition of smashing a pomegranate on their doorstep as they enter their homes on New Year's Eve. The bursting of the fruit's seeds is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.
• Philippines: In the Philippines, round shapes are considered lucky, symbolizing coins and wealth. Families will lay fruits on their dining tables, and many people wear polka-dotted clothing for good luck.
• Denmark: In Denmark on New Year, they save old dishes and plates throughout the year and then throw them at the doors of friends' and family members' homes on New Year's Eve which symbolises letting go of the past and embracing the new.
• Thailand: Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year, is celebrated with a water festival symbolising purification and renewal. People splash water on each other, clean their homes, and visit temples to make offerings.

These New Year traditions show just how diverse and rich cultures are around the world. Whether you're eating grapes in Spain, smashing plates in Denmark, or splashing water in Thailand, New Year's Eve is a time for unity and celebration across the globe.

Which country celebrates New Year first?

Kiribati takes the crown as the first to shout "Happy New Year!" Thanks to its spot near the International Date Line, the tiny Line Islands see in 2025 a whole 14 hours ahead of the UK.

Close on its heels are Samoa and Tonga, lighting up the Pacific with their early celebrations. Fancy being one of the first in the world to raise a glass? These top NYE destinations should be on your radar.

Is it cheaper to travel at New Year's?

Travelling at New Year's can be a bit of a gamble, but here’s how to save your money while expiring some of the best countries to visit for New Year:

• Pick the Underdogs: Skip the big-name party capitals and head for hidden gems like Tbilisi or Madeira—still bursting with charm but without the eye-watering price tags.
• Book Sharpish: Early birds bag the bargains, so don’t dawdle. Flights and hotels go up faster than the fireworks if you leave it too late.
• Flex Those Dates: Travelling on the 31st? Pricey. Shifting your plans by a day or two? Potentially hundreds saved.

The 14 Best New Year Destinations Worldwide

1. New Year's Eve in New York City, USA

New York City, often referred to as "The City That Never Sleeps," comes alive on New Year's Eve. Whether you choose to revel in the breathtaking views from one of the city's rooftop bars or opt for a cosy celebration in Brooklyn, New York offers an array of options. The iconic Times Square countdown, just moments before midnight, is a must-see spectacle that brings together countless revellers making it truly one of the best New Year destinations.

2. New Year's Eve in Hawaii, USA

Embrace the New Year's spirit on the beautiful islands of Hawaii. Hawaii offers a unique blend of cultural traditions and natural beauty. You can celebrate on the beach, enjoy a luau feast, or even participate in a torchlight procession. With a backdrop of swaying palm trees and the sound of ocean waves, Hawaii provides a serene and memorable way to welcome the New Year (and many beautiful beaches to nurse off the hangover on afterwards).

3. New Year's Eve in Sydney, Australia

If you don't mind shelling out on the pricey ticket, you should choose Sydney as your NYE destination. Australia ushers in the New Year early, and Sydney's fireworks over the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House are world-famous. To secure a prime spot for viewing the fireworks, it's advisable to plan ahead and arrive at popular vantage points early in the morning.

4. New Year's Eve in Prague, Czech Republic

Next on our list of the best New Year destinations is Prague. Prague, like many other cities, celebrates exuberantly on December 31st. However, the real highlight awaits on New Year's Day when you can witness the city's official family fireworks display at 6 pm. The choice of an early evening fireworks display is driven by considerations of noise pollution, animal welfare, and cost efficiency.

5. New Year's Eve in Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona offers a unique New Year's Eve experience, surrounded by mountains and the sea with mild December temperatures. While the city's fireworks may not be as grand as some, you'll find vibrant festivities and live music at Placa Espanya. As mentioned previously, an intriguing Spanish tradition involves eating a grape with each bell toll at midnight, promising good luck for the coming year if you can finish all 12 grapes in time.

6. New Year's Eve in Vienna, Austria

Vienna boasts rich traditions on the "night of the first of January." The New Year's Eve Trail in Vienna's Old Town features an extensive program of events, including spectacular fireworks. For those seeking a more opulent experience, Vienna's glamorous balls with their historical charm offer a trip back in time.

7. New Year's Eve in Paris, France

Paris, often associated with romance, eschews fireworks at midnight but maintains its enchanting allure. Enjoy the evening at one of the city's luxurious restaurants or chic bars and head outside shortly before midnight. At the stroke of midnight, the Eiffel Tower sparkles brilliantly and can be admired from various vantage points across the city. On a clear night, you might even catch a glimpse of the Disneyland Paris fireworks in the distance.

8. New Year's Eve in Rome, Italy

Another one of of the best places for New Year 2025 is Rome, Italy.  To bring good luck in the New Year, locals wear red underwear on New Year's Eve so make sure you pack. some. If you do forget to bring your own, don't fret; you can find an abundance of red lingerie in the city's boutiques on this special night. Romans typically celebrate with family and indulgent feasts, heading out to the city's major squares just before midnight to watch the fireworks illuminate the sky at midnight.

9. New Year's Eve in Bali, Indonesia

At number 9 on our list of the best New Year destinations is Bali. Bali, with its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, offers a New Year's Eve experience with an island vibe. Celebrate on the beautiful shores or at beachfront parties with live music and fireworks. Bali's warm hospitality and tropical charm make it an ideal destination to welcome the New Year in a relaxed yet festive atmosphere.

10. New Year's Eve in New Orleans, USA

Let the good times roll on New Year's Eve 2025 in the lively city of New Orleans, USA. Said to be one of the best places to celebrate New Year in the world, thanks to its buzzing music scene and electric night life, New Orleans offers a truly one-of-a-kind way to welcome the New Year. Whether you're strolling through the historic French Quarter, savouring Cajun and Creole cuisine at renowned eateries, or joining a lively jazz parade, New Orleans' spirited New Year's Eve celebrations promise an unforgettable start to the year in a city that knows how to have a good time.

11. New Year's Eve in Cape Town, South Africa

For a unique way to celebrate New Year's Eve 2025, head to Cape Town and witness the spectacular fireworks display at the V&A Waterfront. The stunning backdrop of Table Mountain and the glittering city lights create a picturesque setting for welcoming the New Year 2025 as you enjoy a great evening of music, food, and festivities along the waterfront promenade. Fancy something a bit more low-key? Have a braai with family and friends.

12. New Year's Eve in Miami, USA

Up next on our list of the best New Year destinations is Miami. Glamour, celebs and great weather provide the perfect combination for an unforgettable New Year 2025. Whether you're dancing beneath the starlit skies of South Beach, toasting with champagne at an opulent gala, taking a sunset cruise on Biscayne Bay or heading to Bayfront Park for a free, open-air celebration featuring live music, food trucks, Miami offers something for everyone on New Year 2025. For a slice of quirky Miami fun, why not join the locals in Little Havana for a salsa-fueled street party? Or, get your adrenaline pumping at a rooftop club like E11EVEN, where the party runs straight through to sunrise.

13. New Year's Eve in Bangkok, Thailand

NYE in Bangkok is utter madness but we love it. Kick off your evening at the legendary CentralWorld, Bangkok’s version of Times Square. Picture massive LED screens, live music, and a crowd full of cheer as fireworks light up the night sky. Prefer a more exclusive vibe? Head to one of Bangkok’s iconic rooftop bars like Vertigo or Sky Bar (yes, the one from The Hangover), where you can sip cocktails with jaw-dropping views of the city skyline.

For some culture, make your way to a temple like Wat Arun to join locals in lighting lanterns or offering prayers for a prosperous year ahead. Feeling adventurous? Hop on a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll float past glittering temples while enjoying a feast of Thai delicacies.

14. New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Last on our list of the best New Year destinations for 2025 is Rio. Rio de Janeiro knows how to throw a party, and its New Year's Eve celebration, known as "Réveillon," is legendary. Join millions of locals and visitors on Copacabana Beach for a night of live music, samba dancing, and a mesmerising fireworks display over the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain.

Will You Visit One Of These NYE Destinations For NYE 2025?

Get planning your New Year break abroad with our roundup of the best destinations for New Year's Eve 2025. Why settle for a quiet night at home when you could be watching fireworks over Sydney Harbour, partying in Bangkok, or welcoming New Year 2025 at an epic street party in Brazil? Wherever you choose, these best NYE destinations promise a New Year's Eve for the books. So grab your suitcase, pick your New Year's Eve destination, and start the countdown to a celebration you’ll never forget.

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