AROUND THE WORLD VIENNA,

Austria

With its opulent palaces, horse-drawn carriages parading down cobblestone streets, and rich culture, Vienna, Austria, is dreamy any time of year. During the holidays, the historic city truly shines with an array of Christmas markets, including the renowned Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz square — where angelic concerts fill the air, stalls sell delicious treats and shiny baubles, and over-the-top surprises delight guests at every turn. Soak up the imperial splendor of Schönbrunn Palace, where a towering tree anchors a magnificent Christmas market that also morphs into a New Year’s Market. Vienna boasts a rich heritage of attracting musical greats from Mozart to Beethoven, so make time for a classical or seasonal concert that take place from churches to palaces. On New Year’s Eve, locals waltz into the new year while fireworks burst above the grand city as church bells chime at midnight. In true grandiose form, Viennese ball season begins in winter; buy tickets ahead of time and bring formal attire to attend one of these enchanting events.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Another nucleus of over-the-top holiday celebrations can be found in Budapest, Hungary. Set along the Danube River, a fairytale scene comes alive in the medieval city known for its castles and incredible architecture, with snowy landscapes and streets dressed in festive lights and dotted with Christmas trees. Budapest is home to some of Europe’s best Christmas markets, particularly in Vörösmarty Square and in front of Saint Stephen’s Basilica, where you’ll shop handmade gifts and devour Hungarian specialties like sugary chimney cakes. Enjoy an unforgettable evening at the stunning Hungarian Opera House to watch the Nutcracker ballet, then swish around the ice-skating rink in City Park. Winter is perfect for enjoying a soak at one of Budapest’s thermal bathhouses like the Szechenyi Baths, with steaming outdoor and indoor pools in a grand setting. On New Year’s Eve, embark on an elegant dinner cruise down the Danube or join the array of street parties to watch the fireworks that pop up in neighborhoods around the city.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

For those who wish to escape the typical snowy setting, there’s no better place to mark the new year than Sydney, Australia, where pleasant summer breezes are the best gift. The greatest show of the year happens when the world-famous fireworks dramatically explode over Sydney Harbour and the arched bridge, and there are plenty of places to watch the spectacle. Take a harbour cruise for unobstructed views, make reservations at a ritzy rooftop bar, or simply bring a blanket to free vantage points like Observatory Hill or Blues Point Reserve. Keep the celebrations going at the iconic Sydney Opera House for a special performance, and enjoy balmy days at abundant beaches.