Life

21 Luxury Airbnb Getaways For The Ultimate NYE

by Dacy Knight

If you're looking for a sweet escape to ring in 2016, look no further than these New Year's Eve Airbnb rentals for the ultimate collection of last-minute getaways that come with private views of their city's fireworks. The site features spectacular accommodations in popular New Year's Eve destinations near and far, promising for a unique experience on the big night whether you plan on staying domestic or venturing abroad.

When the clock strikes midnight, do you dream of dancing beneath firecracker explosions atop a houseboat in the canal? Would you prefer to trade in your sequined dress for a swimsuit and gaze out across an infinity pool at pyrotechnics from your private villa on the hill? Or do you imagine a cozier hideaway, nestled in the shadows of an ancient castle for a fairytale-like fête? If you long for any of these — or anything more than an open bar at a dance club so dark you don't know who's approaching you for that midnight kiss — it's time to get online and start planning your ideal getaway. To make last-minute searching even easier, here's a roundup of some of the best Airbnb lodgings from around the world that boast prime locations and exceptional views of midnight fireworks.

1. London

This lovely London flat features rooftop views of the London Eye and fireworks shows come midnight on New Year's Eve. Minutes from Waterloo and the Southbank of the river Thames, the two bedroom property comfortably fits six, so bring your friends for an English escape you'll never forget.

2. Sydney

Say goodbye to winter and g'day to sunny skies when you head Down Under for a summery New Year's Eve. This massive apartment sleeps up to six guests, has two large balconies, and boasts "point blank views" of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge — the famed spectacle come midnight when it makes for a dramatic setting for the world's biggest firework display. If you choose to venture out for the big night, you can head to the harbour with a few bottles of bubbly and hire a boat, or "motor out to Cockatoo Island and set up a moonlit picnic."

3. New York

If you find yourself in New York City on New Year's Eve, skip the Times Square hubbub, and retreat uptown to a penthouse with a private terrace for cityscape views of the Empire State Building and fireworks. One block from Central Park and walking distance to Lincoln Center and the American Museum of Natural History, there's plenty to do while avoiding city chaos during New Year's Eve day.

4. Berlin

Enjoy contemporary art pieces, some "spectacular sunrises and sunsets," and even a small sauna at this modern penthouse overlooking Berlin. In the evening, venture out to the city's biggest celebration at the Brandenburg Gate, or simply stay in to enjoy midnight fireworks from one of the apartment's three terraces.

5. Dubai

Take in the Burj Khalifa fireworks poolside at this luxury apartment in the heart of downtown Dubai. Pamper yourself into the New Year with top notch accommodations. In addition to the massive pool, the listing offers a steam room, gym, jacuzzi, and sauna.

6. Rio de Janeiro

This party-ready penthouse is located in the heart of Copacabana, the epicenter of New Year's Eve action in Rio. With five bedroom suites, a plunge pool with a waterfall, outdoor terrace, and barbecue, the property is perfect for big groups ready to ring in the New Year in a big way. Official celebrations begin around 8 p.m., with locals taking to the streets for live music shows and Brazilian samba. But with private views of Copacabana Beach — and the fireworks show at midnight — it's possible to have the time of your life without even leaving the penthouse.

7. San Antonio

Just steps away from San Antonio's famed River Walk and able to host up to 13 guests, this Texas condo is the ideal locale for visitors looking to party. The River Walk not only offers an endless supply of bars and restaurants, but is the center of the city's celebrations on New Year's Eve.

8. Copenhagen

Wish "godt nytår" to your loved ones in this cozy Danish flat in the heart of Nørrebro. Right on "Red Square," the location is "always full of life and activity," and near the center of Copenhagen. The open rooftop is equipped with a barbecue grill, and makes for an elevated setting to view the celebrations below and fireworks above.

9. Acapulco

This listing includes private access to your own secluded beach — the only sandy beach in the area — when you're not enjoying the oceanfront villa or the sprawling tropical grounds. Outdoor dining areas allow you to enjoy the breeze any time of the day, and the property promises unobstructed views of the bay for midnight fireworks.

10. Brooklyn

If you're seeking a big city escape but know better than to take on New York this New Year's Eve, look across the river to Brooklyn. This spacious Williamsburg apartment is picture perfect with exposed brick and 13-foot ceilings. Indulge in Manhattan skyline views from the master bedroom and "wraparound city and Williamsburg bridge views" from its roof deck. Enjoy your private fireworks viewing away from the hustle of Manhattan in the roof's cozy indoor lounge.

11. Amsterdam

On New Year's Eve, fireworks can be seen all around Amsterdam, with especially great views from the city's many bridges. This charming houseboat offers prime canal real estate and an exceptional view of midnight pyrotechnics with its spacious roof deck. When not gazing above at explosions in the sky, you can enjoy views of the Amstel river, the famous Blauwbrug, and the Stopera. The boat is central, meaning just a hop to the shore away from the city's most exciting sights, and the makeshift street parties that will appear on the holiday.

12. Seoul

Care to be eye-level with the fireworks from the comfort of your very own studio suite modeled after a five star hotel? This modern sky lounge in the Yongsan neighborhood of Seoul gives guests breathtaking floor-to-ceiling views suspended above the city. The only catch? The listing only accepts longterm guests renting monthly.

13. Edinburgh

Escape to Scotland to find yourself nestled in the shadows of the beautiful Edinburgh castle this New Year's Eve. The eclectic apartment will serve as "the perfect base" for your stay, as you'll soon be swept up in the whirlwind of the city's three-day New Year's Eve celebration. On Dec. 30, join in carrying torches from Parliament Square to Calton Hill. The next day, sing along to the biggest and loudest rendition of "Auld Lang Syne" in the world. If you aren't out in the middle of the party for the fireworks set off from the castle, you'll have one of the best views from the comfort of the apartment. On New Year's Day, the festivities continue with live music and events throughout the city.

14. Honolulu

Hop aboard this private yacht for an unforgettable tropical getaway and unmatched views of Diamond Head and the New Year's Eve fireworks along Waikiki beach. Stationed in a little marina between Waikiki and downtown Honolulu, the 38-foot cruising catamaran named "Lotus" is equipped with three cabins, a main salon, and a galley area, making for ample room when you're not out exploring Honolulu or experiencing Polynesian cuisine and dance at a traditional Hawaiian luau.

15. Montreal

When midnight strikes in Montreal, you won't even have to leave the warmth of this expansive executive loft for the best view of the fireworks in Old Port. Before the big night, journey out onto the cobblestone streets lit by holiday lights to explore nearby restaurants, cafés, and sites like Notre Dame cathedral and Bonsecours Market. The listing suggests to "bundle up and take a horse and carriage ride" or "go skating at the Terrasses Bonsecours," just a five minute stroll away. When indoors to warm up from the cold, enjoy the loft's full-sized pool table and views of St. Paul Street and the St. Lawrence River.

16. Valparaiso

You and five other guests can enjoy a colorful holiday in the Chilean city of Valparaiso. Located up in the city's hills, this airy house has breathtaking views of the bay, making it an ideal place to take in the fireworks shows the night of New Year's Eve. During the day, relax on the terraces or in the house's garden.

17. New Orleans

Join in on one of America's biggest New Year's Eve parties in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter at this spacious loft apartment. Situated in an old French Market produce warehouse, the loft boasts views of the daily activities of the market below, including live music, and "historic paddle wheel boats floating on the mighty Mississippi River." Come midnight, you can be above the wild crowds but still enjoy a perfect view of the fireworks.

18. Brussels

Stay in the heart of Brussels at this luxury penthouse with views of New Year's Eve fireworks at Place de la Brouckère from the apartment's grand skyline terraces. The modern duplex is just around the corner from Brussels' Christmas market, where you'll find an ice rink, Ferris wheel, concerts, and festive wooden chalets offering endless delights.

19. Monaco

Feel like royalty in this luxury apartment of a gorgeous 19th century Belle Epoch palace overlooking the casino square of Monte Carlo. The space boasts "panoramic sea views from Bordighera to St-Jean Cap Ferrat" and after sunset, you'll find the best private views of the fireworks show in Monaco from the suite's balcony. During the day, explore the building's glass dome winter garden designed by Gustave Eiffel.

20. Seattle

Relax with some lakeside living near the heart of the city on this traditional Seattle houseboat on South Lake Union. Enjoy beautiful views of Seattle's skyline from the water or the house's upper deck, which is outfitted with a generous terrace ready to host with chairs, tables, and a barbecue grill. Also included with the property are three kayaks, so if you're sober, paddle out for unbelievable views of the Space Needle's pyrotechnic show at midnight.

21. Phuket

Ring in the New Year in a Thai tropical paradise at this four bedroom sea view villa nestled in its own private hillside estate. The impressive property is owned by a professional architect, and you'll be surrounded by contemporary designs, natural materials, and a panoramic view of Bang Tao Bay and New Year's Eve fireworks. The architecture welcomes "bright light, warm breezes and vibrant colors of the tropic" as you pamper yourself on the pool decks or covered terrace.

Looking for more holiday cheer? Check out Bustle on YouTube.

Images: Airbnb (21)