Katie Harmsworth, Venice Simplon-Orient Express
New Year’s Eve is the perfect chance to ditch the standard party and create lasting memories with your partner in a way that feels truly unique. Whether it’s a cozy starlit escape, a glamorous night at the opera, or a decadent wine country retreat, there are so many ways to make the night unforgettable. From intimate moments to grand adventures, we’ve rounded up seven inspired ideas to help you ring in the new year with the one you love and start 2025 on a high note.
A Night at the Opera or Ballet
Immerse yourself in the drama and elegance of an evening at the opera or ballet. Many major cities host New Year’s Eve performances of timeless classics, followed by exclusive after-parties. It’s a sophisticated way to celebrate, complete with champagne toasts and fireworks displays to end the night on a high note. For an unforgettable experience, consider the Vienna State Opera, where the rich history and grandeur of the venue add an extra layer of magic to the evening.
Datt Offical, Silvia Camporesi
On a Luxury Train
Imagine ringing in the new year aboard one of the most glamorous trains in the world, like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express by Belmond. Step back in time with its 1920s Art Deco interiors, polished wood finishes, and luxurious cabins, suites, or grand suites. As the train glides through Europe, indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine and sip champagne in the bar car while a live pianist sets the mood. At midnight, toast to the new year with Venice as your backdrop, and follow it up with a fun tradition, a decadent brunch served post midnight featuring lobster rolls and truffle sandwiches. Truly, a celebration like no other.
All Dressed Up at Home
Why go out when you can transform your home into the ultimate glamorous affair? Set the scene with candles, elegant table settings, and a killer playlist. Dress to the nines in your finest formalwear and cook a decadent multi-course meal together—or hire a private chef to handle the details. As the clock strikes midnight, sip champagne and share your resolutions for the coming year.
Alpine Elegance
Ring in the New Year in true alpine glamour in the luxurious Swiss town of St. Moritz. Known for its chic vibe and breathtaking scenery, St. Moritz offers the perfect combination of adventure and elegance. Spend your days skiing the pristine slopes and your evenings indulging in the ultimate luxury at iconic spots like Badrutt's Palace Hotel or the Hotel Kulm. Toast to the new year at a glamorous gala dinner, followed by dancing and fireworks under the snow-dusted night sky. Whether you’re sipping champagne in a lavish ballroom or cozying up by the fire with views of the Alps, St. Moritz makes for an unforgettable way to start the year.
Stargazing in Nature at a Luxury Lodge
Ring in the New Year under a blanket of stars for an evening that feels both magical and intimate. Plan a getaway to a luxury lodge that strikes the perfect balance between cozy comforts and breathtaking views, allowing you to reconnect with nature while enjoying every indulgence. Picture sipping champagne by a roaring fire, stepping outside to a sky glittering with constellations, and sharing the first moments of the year with just your partner and the vast universe above. For an epic adventure, consider celebrating somewhere unique, like New Zealand’s Southern Alps, where remote and luxurious retreats like Flockhill Lodge boast some of the clearest and most awe-inspiring night skies on Earth.
Relax & Reconnect at the Spa
Start the new year feeling refreshed and rejuvenated with a spa retreat designed for ultimate relaxation. Whether you opt for a serene day at your favorite local spa or embark on a luxurious getaway to a destination like Forestis Dolomites, it’s the perfect way to unwind together. Indulge in couples’ massages, thermal baths, and treatments inspired by nature, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. With champagne in hand and a renewed sense of calm, you’ll kick off the year in blissful harmony, ready to take on whatever comes next.
Toast the Year Ahead in Wine Country
Toast to the New Year in true style with a romantic wine-tasting getaway. Escape to Bordeaux, the heart of France’s famed wine country, and immerse yourself in the charm of sprawling vineyards and historic châteaus. Stay at a luxurious estate nestled among the vines, where you can enjoy world-class wine pairings, intimate dinners, and the rich ambiance of French countryside elegance. Spend your days sampling celebrated vintages, exploring picturesque villages, and savoring the slower pace of life. As the clock strikes midnight, raise a glass of Bordeaux’s finest and welcome the year ahead in a setting as timeless as your love.
