Authorities in Paris, with an eye to security following the November attacks by armed militants, shortened a New Year video light show at the Arc de Triomphe at midnight and cancelled a firework display to keep down crowds.

About 11,000 soldiers, police and emergency workers were deployed - 2,000 more than last year - during subdued celebrations, the official city web site said, while there would be restrictions on the sale of alcohol.

The French capital remains on high alert since the November 13 shootings and suicide bombings by Islamic State militants which killed 130 people.

Fireworks are not a traditional part of the celebrations, but they were part of a New Year frenzy a year ago on the Avenue des Champs-Elysees, the capital's most famous thoroughfare.