Lonely Planet Experts' Top New Year's Eve Destinations for Unforgettable Celebrations
It's easy to be cynical about New Year's Eve, but truthfully, most of us join the global countdown to the new year. Whether seeking dazzling fireworks, serene reflection in a peaceful retreat, or a midnight kiss, discover Lonely Planet experts' curated travel recommendations for an epic New Year's Eve.
Prague, Czech Republic, recommended by Tom Hall, Travel Editor at Lonely Planet
'Church of Our Lady before Tyn' by Davidlohr Bueso. Creative Commons Attribution licence
Prague delivers an exceptional New Year's Eve getaway. The city buzzes with activity over the holidays, and the Old Town Square enchants in deep winter. Secure evening reservations early, but prioritize the Vltava River banks at midnight for breathtaking fireworks illuminating Prague Castle. While no longer the budget steal of years past, extended stays often uncover attractive deals.
New South Wales Coast, recommended by Jane Atkin, Online Community Manager, London
'Double rainbow reflections NSW Australia' by Hai Linh Truong. Creative Commons Attribution licence
A city enthusiast at heart, I prefer New South Wales' coastline for New Year's Eve over urban spectacles. Skip Sydney's fireworks for a beach bonfire, stargazing, and quality time with loved ones. I've rung in the new year camping at South Durras, relaxing in Narooma, or at Huskisson on Jervis Bay. Rent a holiday home (bonus if signal-free), rally friends, hire a car, pack books, cards, and beach cricket gear. Escape crowds, embrace ocean sounds, and ponder new year's infinite possibilities.
Chiang Mai, Thailand, recommended by Tom Hewitson, Destinations Editor at lonelyplanet.com
'Thai lanterns' by Mark Fischer. Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike licence
Tired of frigid queues and inflated bar tabs? Opt for a post-Christmas escape to balmy, budget-friendly Thailand at around 27°C. While southern islands host packed 'full moon' parties, Chiang Mai blends affordable drinks with cultural immersion. Ring in the new year dancing at a free Thai rock concert as thousands of lanterns illuminate the sky. Next day, bus to mountain retreat Pai and unwind in natural hot springs.
Dublin, Ireland, recommended by James Kay, Digital Editor at lonelyplanet.com
'Guinness Tower' by Eduardo Fonseca Arraes. Creative Commons Attribution licence
Dubliners reportedly down nearly 10,000 pints hourly from Friday night through Monday. This party city shines on New Year's Eve at St Stephen's Green, featuring fireworks amid an epic craic. A torchlit parade of floats, fire breathers, and stilt walkers precedes the festivities on December 31. Pub-hop Grafton Street gems like Kehoe's or The Long Hall, or Merrion Square haunts like cult-favorite Hartigan's. Recover with Trinity College (Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett's alma mater) or a Gaelic football/hurling match at Croke Park.
French Alps, recommended by Anita Isalska, Writer and Editor at lonelyplanet.com
Image by Grayskullduggery. Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike licence
Counter New Year's Eve chaos with a serene French Alps retreat. Crisp mountain air clears post-Christmas haze; hike snow-draped gems like Lake Montriond. Revel in Réveillon: a lavish feast of cheeses, pâtés, flambéed meats, and potent Haute-Savoie liqueurs till dawn. Proximity to Morzine and Avoriaz eases resolutions with skiing/snowboarding. Shake off any hangover on the slopes while friends lament lackluster nights.
