Paris at Christmas: What to See and Do

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Discovering Paris During Christmas: A Winter Wonderland in the City of Lights

There’s no better place to experience the magic of Christmas than Paris. The city transforms into a glittering wonderland every December, with festive markets, dazzling decorations and more. Whatever you’re hoping to experience in Paris at Christmas, you can rest assured knowing that your trip will be unforgettable.

Here’s a guide to making the most of Paris at Christmas.

Christmas Lights and Decorations

This might seem like a no-brainer but Paris isn’t called the City of Light for nothing. Paris at Christmas is even better! Here are some must-see lights and decor:

• Champs-Élysées: The iconic avenue has thousands of gorgeous twinkling lights, making it a magical place for a stroll. Don’t miss the glittering trees leading up to the Arc de Triomphe.
• Galeries Lafayette: The department store is famous for its elaborate holiday window displays and the spectacular Christmas tree in the middle of the dome. The decorations change each year and people come from all over the world to see them!
• Lumières en Seine: If you’re open to going a bit further, the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud has amazing interactive Christmas light art installations!

Explore the Christmas Markets

A trip to Paris at Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Christmas market! They are so cute with little chalets filled with gift ideas, delicious regional and seasonal food and warm drinks like mulled wine, spiced cider and hot chocolate.

• Tuileries: Conveniently located in the center of the city this Christmas market has something for everyone and feels a bit like a carnival with rides, chalets and more.
• La Défense Christmas Market: This Christmas market is just outside of the city in the La Défense district, it’s larger with a food court, ice skating rink, and all of the food and gifts you could hope for!
• Smaller Markets throughout Paris: The rest of Paris is also filled with adorable small Christmas Markets, Abbesses in Montmartre, Notre Dame, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you may just wander upon one as you walk around the city, and there’s nothing more magical than that!

Eat Seasonal Food

You can’t come to Paris at Christmas and not enjoy some of the fantastic seasonal food that comes around in the winter months!

• Bûche de Noël: This traditional French Christmas cake, shaped like a yule log, is a must-try. You’ll find variations ranging from classic chocolate to exotic flavors like mango-passionfruit – find these in bakeries!
• Hot Chocolate: Parisian hot chocolate is rich, velvety, and indulgent – it can taste like you’ve just melted a bar of chocolate into a mug. Places like Angelina and Carette are famous for their hot chocolate, perfect to warm you up on a chilly walk.
• Raclette: Melted cheese on potatoes with charcuterie and various other small sides. Need we say more? We love to go to MonBleu but you can find raclette on many brasserie menus during the winter months.

Experience Holiday Entertainment

Paris offers a range of festive performances and activities to get you into the holiday spirit:

• Go to the Ballet: Usually each holiday season, the Opera puts on the Nutcracker, this year however the ballet at the Opera Garnier is called Play and is fun for all ages. At the Opera Bastille, see Paquita.
• Go to the Theatre: Paris has hundreds of theatres so you’re sure to find something you enjoy. Theatre in Paris has a website all about finding shows that are surtitled in English so even if your French isn’t completely fluent, you can still enjoy a night out at the theatre.
• Go to a Concert: The magnificent Sainte-Chappelle has an amazing series of concerts going on. Check them out here and visit one of the most beautiful churches in Paris while you’re at it!

Take a Seine River Cruise

A winter cruise on the Seine offers a unique perspective of Paris during the holidays. Bundle up and enjoy views of the city’s illuminated landmarks, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. Some cruises even include festive meals, making them super cozy and romantic.

Plan a Day Trip to Disneyland Paris

If you’re a Disney person, definitely take the quick train ride out to Disneyland Paris to see how it has transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland. There are holiday parades, decorations, and special seasonal shows. It’s a fantastic option for families or anyone looking to embrace their inner child.

Celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

If you’re in Paris during Christmas, plan ahead to make the most of these special days:

• Midnight Mass: Many churches in Paris offer a Midnight Mass – see all the listings here
• Festive Dining: Many Parisian restaurants offer special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menus. Reserve a table at a traditional brasserie or a Michelin-starred restaurant for an unforgettable meal.

Paris during Christmas is an experience like no other. The city’s beauty, culture, and festive spirit come together to create a magical atmosphere that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate by the Seine or shopping for treasures at a Christmas market, Paris has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday season.

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