Hi
I've always thought it would be cool to be in Paris for New Years Eve so I was thinking....I turn the big 50 in January and thought it would be a good 'present' to myself for my hubby and 21 yo daughter to go visit my older daughter, who will be in Lille or possibly La Rochelle, doing the 2nd year of her masters AND spend a few nights in Paris- one being New Years eve.
Has anyone been in Paris for New Years? Is it really cool? A crazy zoo? Fireworks over the Eiffel Tower? :)
Posted by
🏝️ Hobe Sound, FL⛱️
3279 posts
Bon anee! I spent New Year's Eve in Paris a few years ago and welcomed the new year on the Champ de Mars. The only fireworks were courtesy of some severely inebriated folks that started off well until they didn't set their rockets properly.. Suddenly started ricocheting off tree limbs into the crowd! No one hurt but a little insanity. I'd definitely do it again. Bring some snacks, glasses and a bottle of bubbly. Sort of like NYC's Times Square lite.
Most restaurants close early in the afternoon because they have New Year parties in the evening. You'll need reservations and prices can be high. I wound up eating at a Chinese restaurant near Rue Claire and unfortunately got food poisoning. No fun leaving at 6AM for my flight home. But the Metro was free.
Posted by
Chicago
8552 posts
There are no fireworks in Paris at the Eiffel Tower on New Year's Eve (except as noted by the occasional drunk partier) We have spent several New Year's Eves in Paris and enjoy that time of year in the city but we always have an apartment and cook in usually with friends or relatives who are visiting. There is loads of cool stuff in the shops for holidays -- one year we roasted a boned duck that was stuffed with a pate stuffing and came all trussed up and ready to roast. And the appetizers and desserts special to that time of year are also good.
If you plan on a restaurant meal, then book well in advance as restaurants usually have a special deal that night and book up.
Posted by
OP
NH
219 posts
Thanks for the replies! I was hoping for firework but still sounds like a good time:)
My daughter will be in France so we will probably go to see her regardless.
Posted by
Anna Texas, USA
144 posts
We spent New Year's Eve there two years ago and it was really neat. Everyone goes to the Eiffel Tower and it is a sight to behold. We stayed kind of on the fringe of the crowd since we really did not know what to expect. Luckily there was not a problem. It was one of our most memorable New Years. It seems that they ran free transportation until a certain hour which allowed you to get back to your room quickly.
Thanks - Bill