Paris is enchanting all year round. However, visiting Paris at Christmas time is extra special. The city of love becomes more romantic, enchanting and beautiful in the span of a month. The winter air is pleasantly crisp, the streets are lit up with a festive glow and decorations can be found all around. Here is my guide to the French capital at Christmas and, in the space of a few minutes, I want to to convince you that December is the best time to visit.
Visiting Paris at Christmas Time
Stroll Along the Champs-Élysées Christmas Market
One of the most iconic holiday experiences in Paris is wandering down the Champs-Élysées. Along it is the annual Christmas market. Don’t think of it being similar to ones you might find in Vienna or Munich; this one is beautifully French. There are some similarities such as the wooden chalets filled with homemade gifts and roasted chestnuts. However, you can drink French mulled wine and experience and traditional pastries such as bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). You can even hop on the giant Ferris wheel at Place de la Concorde for an incredible view of Paris. It really is an experience that will leave you thinking très bien. Plus, in typically French style, this year the Champs-Élysées will see 400 trees coated with golden lights.
Admire the Holiday Lights and Window Displays
Paris is known for its stunning Christmas lights, and it is easily one of the highlights of this season. The Galeries Lafayette and Le Bon Marché, two of the city’s most famous department stores, always put on a Christmas window display that is a must-see. Every year, the windows are elaborately and carefully decorated with festive scenes; often animated and always eye-catching. Once you have seen these, make sure that you head outside to see Place Vendôme. This year four 10m trees have been placed here to give one of the best light displays in the city. These are surrounded by over 100 smaller fir trees. As you would expect, each one looks magnificent and are adorned in finery.
Visit the Notre-Dame Christmas Market
For a taste of Parisian charm and an authentic holiday market experience, don’t miss the Christmas market at Notre-Dame. This year it is open from November 29th to December 25th. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, this market is filled with festive stalls selling French specialties like foie gras or saucisson (sausage). You can also find local crafts made by nearby French artisans. Once you have explored and indulged in gastronomic delights, make sure you check out the Cathedral. This year, Notre-Dame is is reopening to the public from the 8th of December, following major reconstruction works.
Ice Skating at Hôtel de Ville
Another highlight of a visiting Paris at Christmas Time is to go ice skating at the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). For the cost of €10 per adult, you can skate in front of one of the most magnificent historical buildings in Paris, which is beautifully lit during the holidays. It really is an unforgettable experience to glide (or shuffle!) across the ice with Paris as your backdrop.
Explore Montmartre’s Christmas Magic
For a more intimate, cosy experience, head to Montmartre. The cobblestone streets leading up to Sacré-Cœur are lined with hundred of lights, as you would expect. From the 23rd of November to the 29th of December, you can also dive into the Christmas Market here. This is typically quieter and more traditional, and has to be one of my favourites. Tuck into some roasted escargots or mushrooms, and make sure to check out the champagne bar. Once you’re done, don’t forget to stop by the Place du Tertre, where you can find local artists displaying their work amidst the holiday decorations.
Visit the Christmas Markets at Saint-Germain-des-Prés
For a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-track Christmas experience, head to Saint-Germain-des-Prés on the Left Bank. This historic neighborhood is known for its cafés and chic boutiques, but during Christmas time, it’s also home to a lovely Christmas market. The market stalls here are slightly smaller and less crowded, offering a great chance to pick up unique gifts like handcrafted ornaments, artisanal chocolates, and French scarves. Enjoy the local atmosphere with fewer tourists and more Parisians going about their holiday shopping.
Take a Seine River Cruise
One of the best ways to experience Paris at Christmas is from the iconic Seine River. I think that the most unique and romantic perspective of the city are by boat, especially when the landmarks are glowing in holiday lights. A Christmas Seine river cruise allows you to see the iconic Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Louvre illuminated against the winter backdrop. Many of the cruises also include a festive meal or drinks, so you can make an evening of it.
Christmas Eve Mass at Sacré-Cœur
If you’re in the mood for a spiritual experience, attending Christmas Eve mass at the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur is definitely worth it. This church is one of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in Paris and, whatever your beliefs, is well-worth a visit. If you can’t get in, the Sacré-Cœur is also perched on the highest point in Paris, so you’ll get the best views of the city.
Day Trips to Nearby Christmas Markets
If you’re in Paris for a longer stay, you should definitely take a day trip to explore Christmas markets in nearby cities. Strasbourg, often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” boasts one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe. Lille is another good choice. Another option is Reims, where you can see the stunning cathedral and the city’s holiday lights. From Paris, you can also take a trip to Château de Versailles for a royal Christmas experience in the palace and gardens. If you’re after more ideas for day trips from Paris, check out my blog post.
Final Thoughts | Visiting Paris at Christmas Time
I hope that in my short post I’ve convinced you that visiting Paris at Christmas Time is worth it. I’ve only been able to include a slice of all the city has to offer. To experience the magic yourself book your tickets and head over there. You know that you won’t regret it…
Happy exploring,
Love, Victoria x
*cover image: Casper Moller (via Flickr)
