10 Best Cities to Celebrate New Year's Eve
From Sydney's fireworks to Times Square's ball drop, Reykjavik's northern lights to Rio's white-clad beach party — the 10 most exciting cities for New Year's Eve.
Picking the right city for New Year's Eve makes or breaks the trip. The 10 cities below host the world's most spectacular celebrations.
Sydney — Harbour Bridge Fireworks
First major city to ring in the new year. The most over-the-top fireworks display happens around the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
New York — Times Square Ball Drop
A giant crystal ball drops in front of a million people. Cold and crowded, but a must-do once.
London — Tower Bridge and Big Ben
Big Ben rings the countdown, fireworks blast over the Thames. Tickets must be pre-booked.
Edinburgh — Hogmanay Festival
Scotland's 3-day celebration is one of the world's most distinctive cultural experiences. Crowds and torchlight processions on Princes Street.
Reykjavik — Northern Lights
Fireworks coincide with the chance to see the northern lights. The Icelandic tradition of citizens setting off home fireworks is unforgettable.
Rio de Janeiro — White Beach Party
Two million people dress in white on Copacabana beach (for luck). At midnight, locals throw flowers into the sea.
Berlin — Brandenburg Gate Concert
The open-air festival at Brandenburg Gate is Europe's largest. Free, crowded, fun.
Dubai — Burj Khalifa Laser Show
The Burj Khalifa fireworks-laser-music choreography is unmatched. November-December is also the ideal travel window.
Paris — Champs-Élysées
The Eiffel Tower runs a light show rather than fireworks, but a million people gather on the Champs-Élysées for the countdown.
Istanbul — New Year on the Bosphorus
Fireworks from both sides of the Bosphorus and the Galata Bridge. Bosphorus-front restaurants are the best dinner picks.