The Best New Year’s Eve Escapes Abroad (and a few spectacular UK options)

If you’re thinking of swapping London’s crowds for something a little more cinematic this New Year’s Eve, you’re in luck. From rooftop fireworks in Dubai to Broadway-style dining in New York, and even a luxe staycation in Belfast, there’s a party with your name on it.

New York City – Broadway Voices at Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Nothing says NYE like New York. At Ellen’s Stardust Diner, your servers are Broadway-calibre performers, belting show tunes and dazzling in sparkly costumes. Combine dinner with non-stop live musical revue, then take in the electric Times Square energy outside — it’s chaos, glitter, and magic in one unforgettable package.

Book early — it sells out fast: Ellen’s Stardust Diner NYE

Celebrate New Year’s Eve on Broadway

Dubai – Fireworks, Rooftops & Glamour

Dubai is all about drama, sparkle, and desert decadence. Watch the Burj Khalifa Fireworks Burj Khalifa Fireworks from a rooftop terrace, join a stylish party on Palm Jumeirah, or cruise Dubai Marina with champagne in hand. Warm weather, jaw-dropping displays, and a skyline that glows like no other make it a showstopper.

Paris – Midnight on the Champs-Élysées

For romance and style, Paris is unbeatable. The Champs-Élysées fills with champagne-toting revellers counting down to midnight, with the Arc de Triomphe lit spectacularly. For a quieter, indulgent NYE, book a Seine river cruise with dinner and dancing under the city lights — Eiffel Tower views included. Chic, timeless, and oh-so-French.

Amsterdam – Canals & Cosy Vibes

Amsterdam has a charm all its own. Fireworks light up the city’s canals, historic bridges and cobbled streets, while bars and restaurants serve cozy NYE feasts. Expect long nights of music, laughter, and maybe a little Dutch tradition with oliebollen (sweet doughnuts) to welcome the New Year.

Belfast – Grand Central Hotel Takes NYE to New Heights

You don’t need to travel abroad to have a spectacular NYE. The five-star Grand Central Hotel Belfast offers two standout ways to ring in 2026.

Observatory Package: Enjoy cocktails on the 23rd floor with sweeping skyline views, tapas, a half-bottle of Bollinger, live music, and overnight accommodation with a full Irish breakfast.

Seahorse Package: Begin with prosecco and canapés, follow with a decadent four-course dinner from Executive Head Chef Damian Tumilty, live music, a bagpiper countdown, and overnight luxury.

Price: £560 for two people (suites from £950)

Enjoy a luxury stay at the Grand Central Hotel Belfast

Manchester – The Big Northern Bash

Manchester goes big for NYE. Think city-centre street parties, live music, and firework displays that light up the skyline. Clubs and bars roll out themed parties until the early hours, while hotels make it easy to enjoy the night and stay central.

Brighton – Seaside Sparkle

For something a little quirkier and breezy, Brighton is ideal. Celebrate on the beach or along the pier with fireworks overhead, before heading to one of the city’s stylish bars or beachfront restaurants. Brighton adds a seaside twist to NYE glamour — plus fresh sea air never hurt anyone.

The Verdict

From New York’s singing waiters to Dubai’s pyrotechnic displays, Parisian elegance to Amsterdam’s canal-side fun — and even a sky-high celebration in Belfast — there’s a perfect New Year’s Eve for every taste. Whether you want to party abroad or stay closer to home in style.