Paris during Christmas is truly enchanting — a season when the city glows with festive lights, lively markets, and joyful energy that draws visitors from all over the world.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 unforgettable holiday experiences in Paris that beautifully blend French culture with timeless Christmas traditions.
From skating with the Eiffel Tower in view to sipping mulled wine at cozy markets, every corner of the city feels like a celebration. Let’s get started and discover what makes Christmas in Paris so special!
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1. Discover the Christmas Markets at Place Vendôme
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During the holidays, Place Vendôme becomes a winter wonderland filled with festive charm. Elegant decorations and tall Christmas trees line the square, creating a magical atmosphere.
Seasonal markets appear here with stalls offering handmade crafts, French delicacies, and hot drinks to keep you warm. The scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air, adding to the cozy mood.
It’s an ideal spot to pick up unique gifts or simply enjoy the cheerful ambiance surrounded by stunning Parisian architecture.
2. Walk the Champs-Elysées Under the Christmas Lights
(Christmas, Champs Élysées, Paris, France – Photo by Stephanie LeBlanc on Unsplash)
The Champs-Elysées transforms into a glowing avenue each winter, illuminated by more than a million twinkling lights from late November through early January.
Trees along the boulevard shimmer with red and gold decorations, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Overhead, garlands and rings of light sparkle as you stroll beneath them.
The best time to visit is after sunset, when the lights shine their brightest. You can walk the entire stretch in about 30 minutes, or take a carriage ride for a more romantic view.
On certain Sundays, the avenue closes to traffic — perfect for photos and leisurely walks. Pair your visit with a bit of shopping or a warm drink at a nearby café.
3. Ice Skating Beneath the Eiffel Tower
(Christmas, Paris, France – Photo by Mathias Reding on Unsplash)
Each winter, an ice rink is set up on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower — about 57 meters above the ground. Skating here offers an unforgettable view of Paris below.
The rink typically opens in December and runs through early February. Admission is included with a ticket to the tower’s first level, and skates can be rented on-site.
After gliding across the ice, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine from the nearby snack stand. It’s a small rink, but the experience is one-of-a-kind.
4. Shop for Unique Gifts at the Notre-Dame Christmas Market
Located near the famous cathedral in Square René Viviani, the Notre-Dame Christmas Market is a charming place to find handmade crafts and local specialties.
French artisans sell everything from jewelry to gourmet treats, making it a great spot for thoughtful holiday gifts. The market’s cozy setting and view of Notre-Dame create a warm, festive atmosphere.
Enjoy a cup of mulled wine as you browse — it’s a quieter, more intimate market that captures the true spirit of Paris at Christmas.
5. Enjoy Mulled Wine and Roasted Chestnuts in Montmartre
Montmartre hosts smaller but charming Christmas markets around Place des Abbesses and nearby streets. Wooden stalls serve steaming cups of vin chaud and freshly roasted chestnuts.
The air is filled with the scent of spices and sweets, and you’ll find stalls selling handmade gifts, pastries, and festive decorations. Sometimes, Santa himself makes an appearance!
These markets usually run from late November through early January, offering a cozy holiday experience in one of Paris’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
6. Taste the Famous Bûche de Noël Cakes
Every Parisian patisserie showcases the Bûche de Noël — a traditional French log-shaped cake that’s a Christmas favorite. Flavors range from rich chocolate to fruity or creamy variations.
Each bakery adds its own creative twist, turning this classic dessert into an edible work of art. The tradition dates back centuries, inspired by the Yule log burned during winter celebrations.
Be sure to try one before the season ends — it’s a sweet taste of French holiday tradition.
7. Take a Romantic Dinner Cruise on the Seine
A dinner cruise on the Seine River is one of the most romantic ways to experience Paris at Christmas. As you dine, you’ll drift past illuminated landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame.
Most cruises include multi-course French meals, fine wine, and sometimes live music. The warm, glass-covered cabins offer perfect views of the sparkling city.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day sailings are especially popular, so booking early is recommended. It’s an elegant and unforgettable holiday experience.
8. See a Christmas Show at Théâtre du Châtelet
The Théâtre du Châtelet hosts festive performances throughout December, from musicals to holiday concerts. The historic venue adds a touch of grandeur to any show.
Tickets are available for all budgets, and some performances are designed for families. Arrive early to admire the theater’s ornate interior before the curtain rises.
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy Parisian culture while soaking in the holiday spirit.
9. Admire the Christmas Displays at Galeries Lafayette
Each December, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann turns into a dazzling holiday spectacle. The department store’s window displays are famous for their creativity and charm.
Inside, a giant Christmas tree rises beneath the glass dome, surrounded by festive décor. Crowds gather outside to admire the themed windows, each one telling a different story through art and light.
Visit after dark to see the lights at their most brilliant, and don’t forget to explore the store’s interior for even more holiday magic.
10. Wander Through the Festive Streets of Le Marais
The Le Marais district becomes especially beautiful during the holidays. Strings of lights hang above its narrow streets, and shop windows are dressed in creative displays.
Local boutiques, cafés, and galleries all join in the celebration, giving the area a warm and welcoming vibe. The lights reflecting off the old buildings make every corner feel like a postcard scene.
Take an evening stroll through Place des Vosges or the nearby streets to enjoy the holiday atmosphere — it’s one of the most romantic ways to experience Christmas in Paris.