A Guide: Paris New Year 2026
It is that time of year again. Everybody is scrambling, figuring out what to do for the New Year to celebrate. Many are traveling, but for those of us staying in Paris, let this be your guide to having the most picturesque and fun celebration. Have your phones out and be ready to start making reservations because these places get booked and busy!
Activities
One of the biggest attractions in Paris during the holiday season is The Magic of Christmas: La Magie de Noel, a Christmas market taking place in the Tuileries Garden. Open from November 15th until January 4th, the market stays busy from day to night with people eating, shopping and enjoying amusement rides. The location of the market, being right in between the Louvre and L'orangerie museums, makes this the perfect all-day plan, as you can spend the morning looking at exhibitions, learning some art history and then channel your inner child at the Christmas market.
Here you can see festive lights, fake snowfall and enjoy hot wine or chocolate with some of the most tender turkey legs or a raclette sandwich after ice skating or trying out one of the roller coasters. Another reason the market is amazing is that it is the perfect spot to get yourself and loved ones some really special gifts, from food and wine to clothes and trinkets. For those who have seen La Magie de Noel, here is a guide to all the Christmas markets in Paris.
Another great activity, enjoyable all day until 7 PM, is the ice skating rink at the Grand Palais. The Grand Palais des Glaces is open from December 14 to January 7th. Here you can enjoy ice skating in "the world's largest indoor skating rink" and have a drink at the bar inside. The lines can often be quite long, so reserve in advance.
Since it is very well located at the bottom of Avenue des Champs-Elysées, there are many restaurants, often very easy to walk into for a nice dinner before the clock strikes midnight. Around the Arc de Triomphe is a great place to spend midnight, as the streets get flooded with people celebrating and drinking together for the New Year.
Food
If you plan on eating out for the New Year, YOU NEED TO MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS RIGHT NOW! I promise, even if you think that you will end up doing something chill at home, make a reservation. It is always good to have backups. Roger Griswold, a lover of all things festive, says, "New Year's always creeps up really fast, and there's never enough time once it comes up." So, take this as your warning and use this list of great restaurants to choose from, depending on the vibe you're going for.
Casual + Cozy
Le Souffle If you love soufflés, this place is the holy grail, both the savory and the dessert ones. It’s relaxed, super comforting, and perfect for a low-key dinner that still feels special.
Les Antiquaires The French onion soup and boeuf bourguignon are exactly what you want them to be, and the whole place has that warm, cozy vibe you'd desire on a colder night.
Le Malbillon Come here for duck that literally falls off the bone and potatoes soaked in garlic in the best way possible. It’s simple, satisfying, great when you want something delicious and best of all, it is open 23/7.
Le Recamier This is one of those spots that feels calm and welcoming, with really well-done French classics. The dessert soufflés are famous for a reason definitely save room.
La Palette A super charming Paris staple that isn’t overly touristy. It’s casual, lively, and ideal for a glass of wine and good people-watching.
Formal + Charming
La Petite Chaise One of the oldest restaurants in Paris, and it totally feels like stepping back in time. It’s intimate, classic, and perfect when you want something a bit more special.
Fouquet's If you want a “Paris Paris” night, Fouquet’s is the move. It is glamorous, iconic, and reliable. Don't miss out on Le Marta, a beautifully decorated bar on the other side of the restaurant.
Le Petit Lutetia Chic, beautifully decorated, and very Parisian in the best way. The food is great, and the atmosphere is classy without trying too hard.
Maison de la Truffe If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, this is truffle heaven. It’s rich, cozy, and perfect for a more indulgent dinner.
Party + A meal
Laperouse An absolutely gorgeous restaurant with private rooms and a slightly dramatic vibe. It’s great if you want dinner that already feels like the start of the night out.
Mondaine Dinner here slowly turns into a party, which is ideal when you don’t want to move locations. The energy picks up as the night goes on and it’s always a good time.
Beau Coco Where you go when you want good food but also want to stay out after. Expect loud music, good energy, and a stylish crowd.
Caviar Kaspia Iconic, a little over-the-top, and always lively. The famous caviar potato is worth it, and the atmosphere basically guarantees you’ll leave ready to go out.
Clubbing
Figuring out where to go out in Paris can be a bit intimidating with all of the options and not wanting to wait in super long lines. Although I can't change that, some ways to make your night easier are by arriving early, going on instagram and reaching out to promoters and low follow-count DJs. Here is a list of nightclubs with different music genres to get you started off:
Rasputin A smaller, energetic house-music spot that’s usually a safe bet for a fun night. Good DJs, good crowd, easy to enjoy.
L'aventure Chic, upbeat, and very “Paris going out.”
L'arc One of the most well-known clubs in the city, expect hip-hop, a glamorous crowd, and late nights.
Cova A bit more relaxed than L’Arc but still really fun, with great hip-hop sets and a younger crowd. Good choice if you want music you actually know.
FVTR Dark, loud, and very techno, perfect if you’re into a more underground vibe. It’s a stay till morning kind of spot.
YOYO This place totally changes depending on who’s performing. Sometimes it’s house, sometimes techno, sometimes something random, but always an experience.
Gate A flexible option that shifts genres depending on the DJ. It’s a fun choice when you’re open to whatever the night decides.
La Java A more alternative, historic venue with strong techno energy. Great if you want something real and not super touristy.
