The Eiffel Tower, also the emblem of Paris, has this inexplicable magic associated with it. The more you stare at this indomitable structure, the more intriguing it gets. Although it has no natural beauty whatsoever, this Gustave Eiffel creation can bring out the poet in the most prosaic of people and the holiday season makes it dreamier than usual. And as far as New Year’s Eve in Paris is concerned, the tower is naturally a major drawcard for both locals and travellers.

While most people tend to expect fireworks around the tower, it is the usual light show with shimmers, unless of course, the year has a historical significance. You can however see random individuals set off fireworks of their own as soon as the clock strikes 12 and a plethora of champagne bottles start to pop. New Year’s Eve near the Tour Eiffel is special because it is essentially a street party that never seems to end. You can drink all the alcohol in the world, dance, sing and mingle with anyone and everyone. Wishing total strangers a ‘Bonne Annee’ is perfectly normal and is, in fact, appreciated. However, for the uninitiated, the crowds can be a little intimidating but totally worth all your time.

When to go: Get there by 10:30 PM in order to grab a bench in the gardens in front of the tower.