You all know Paris is a favourite among honeymooners, but few people realise just how charming the city becomes during Christmas. And if you’ve ever looked at Christmas and New Year Packages , you’ll know why! This festive season literally adds chaar-chand to all the romance!
What makes Christmas in Paris interesting is how everyday traditions blend with the city’s classic elegance. You’ll find small Christmas markets with regional treats, creative window displays in big stores, seasonal menus, and neighbourhood events that show how locals actually celebrate the holidays. Even familiar spots like Champs-Élysées, Montmartre, and the Seine look refreshingly different in December.
If you’re planning a winter trip or just curious about how Paris changes in December, this guide will give you a clear picture of what to expect, and why the city feels different in the best way.
Top Things to Do in Paris at Christmas
1. Celebrate Christmas at the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower Paris Christmas stays open every single day of the year, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so it naturally becomes one of the most unforgettable places to experience the holiday magic in Paris.
There’s something extraordinary about enjoying Christmas dinner while floating above Paris. The tower’s restaurants create special holiday menus that make the season feel even more magical:
- Madame Brasserie (1st Floor): A warm, contemporary dining space that’s ideal for a cozy Christmas lunch or dinner.
- Le Jules Verne (2nd Floor): A Michelin-starred experience offering refined cuisine and a sparkling festive atmosphere.
Tip: Book as early as possible, dinner reservations for Christmas Eve in Paris often fill up months in advance.
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Admire the Best Christmas Lights in Paris
The City of Lights truly earns its name in December. These are the top places to soak in the glow of the Christmas lights in Paris:
A must-do! The avenue’s hundreds of trees twinkle with vibrant holiday lights from late November to early January. It’s Paris’s most iconic festive stroll.
- Parisian Department Stores
The holiday windows are world-famous, and for good reason!
- Galeries Lafayette – an enormous themed Christmas tree suspended under the dome.
- Printemps Haussmann – magical animated displays that attract crowds every year.
- Avenue Montaigne
Elegant, upscale, and beautifully understated, Avenue Montaigne offers a refined alternative to the busier holiday areas. Designer boutiques like Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton decorate their storefronts with warm, ethereal white lights that give the whole street a soft, luxurious glow.
Village Royal is a small but beautifully decorated passage that feels like a hidden festive gem. Its charming cobblestone walkway is transformed with glowing lights, elegant ornaments, and seasonal installations that change year to year.
Bercy Village is known for its creative, themed light installations that change annually and always surprise visitors. The open-air walkways are decorated with playful displays, floating lanterns, shimmering garlands, oversized decorations, or art pieces, adding a fun, modern twist to Paris’s holiday season.
3. Explore the Most Stunning Paris Christmas Markets
- Tuileries Garden – La Magie de Noël
One of the largest Paris Christmas Markets, set beside the Louvre Museum with a funfair feel. It features carnival rides, an ice rink, plenty of food stalls, and a festive champagne bar. A lively, family-friendly highlight of the season.
- La Défense Christmas Market
The biggest Christmas market in the Paris region with over 350 stalls. You’ll find regional foods, artisanal gifts, festive décor, and a bright, bustling atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping and snacking.
- Notre-Dame Christmas Market
Located across from the cathedral, this small market offers traditional French crafts and gourmet products from local artisans. When open, it’s a charming, intimate spot for authentic handmade gifts.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market
A stylish market set in one of Paris’s most elegant neighborhoods. It features beautifully curated stalls with high-quality gifts, artisanal products, and gourmet treats.
- Montmartre Christmas Market
Held at Place des Abbesses, this cozy market is known for artisan stalls, local foods, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts. Its charming hilltop setting makes it a picturesque stop during the holidays.
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4. Experience Magical Christmas Shows
If you love festive performances, Paris really knows how to put on a show. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra magic to your Christmas trip.
- The Nutcracker – Le 13ème Art
A Christmas classic brought to life with graceful choreography, whimsical sets, and timeless music. Running from November 26 to December 25, 2025, this show is perfect for families, couples, and ballet lovers.
- Slava’s Snowshow – Le Trianon
An internationally acclaimed theatrical experience filled with playful chaos, dreamy snowstorms, and heartwarming moments. A single special performance takes place on December 24, 2025.
- L'Étonnant Noël de Monsieur Scrooge – La Scène Parisienne
A festive retelling of A Christmas Carol, filled with charm and traditional holiday spirit. Shows run from late November through Christmas Day.
- Où Est Passé Le Père Noël? – La Comédie Saint-Michel
A lively musical adventure for children and families, featuring humor, songs, and interactive moments. Running until December 25, 2025.
- Candlelight Christmas Concert – Institut National Des Jeunes Aveugles
A serene, atmospheric experience held on December 25, 2025, where classical Christmas music is performed in the warm glow of candlelight.
5. Walk Holiday Light Trails
Paris doesn’t just decorate for Christmas, it glows. If you enjoy cozy evening strolls, you’re going to love these.
- L’Odyssée Lumineuse – Parc Floral
A spectacular illuminated walk featuring giant sculptures, glowing forests, and themed sections inspired by Japan and the North Pole. Runs from November 20, 2025, to January 11, 2026.
- Jardin des Plantes Festival of Lights
A magical nighttime stroll amid monumental light installations exploring “Nature’s Lights,” including bioluminescence. The event runs from November 12, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
- Champs-Élysées Illuminations
Hundreds of trees along the famous avenue shimmer in festive lights from late November to early January. A simple walk here feels like stepping into one of the most iconic Paris Christmas events.
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6. Go Ice Skating at Paris’s Most Iconic Winter Rinks
Want to feel like you’re in a holiday movie? Go ice skating in Paris. Even if you’re not a pro, it’s all part of the fun.
Glide under the majestic glass dome on the world’s largest indoor ice rink. A festive mix of music, lights, and family-friendly zones. Open from December 14, 2025, to January 7, 2026.
- Tuileries Garden Ice Rink
Part of the La Magie de Noël Christmas market, this outdoor rink offers seasonal charm, great food nearby, and fun for all ages. Open from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
- Parc André Citroën Ice Rink
A spacious 600 m² outdoor rink in the 15th arrondissement—perfect for those who enjoy skating in a quieter neighborhood setting.
A beloved Parisian winter tradition, typically set in front of city hall. Official dates for the 2025–2026 season will be announced closer to the holidays, but it’s always a festive highlight during any Paris Christmas holiday.
7. Sample the Best Gourmet Winter Treats
If you’re wondering how to celebrate Christmas in Paris through food, the answer is simple: eat everything delicious. The city is full of gourmet halls, historic chocolatiers, and festive market stalls serving warm, comforting treats that make winter feel extra cozy.
- La Grande Épicerie de Paris
This luxury food hall is a must-visit during your Paris Christmas holiday. From artistic bûches de Noël to elegant gift baskets, everything here feels festive and indulgent. Their 2025 creations, like vanilla-pecan and rich chocolate logs, were absolute showstoppers.
A Paris winter classic. Their famously thick and creamy hot chocolate is the perfect pick-me-up after a cold day of sightseeing.
- Famous Chocolatiers
- Jean-Paul Hévin: Known for refined chocolates and one stunning hazelnut–Grand Cru cocoa bûche in 2025.
- À la Mère de Famille: The city’s oldest chocolate shop, filled with nostalgic, old-world Christmas charm.
- Christmas Markets
Stop by any market to enjoy roasted chestnuts, crêpes, and a warm cup of vin chaud. These stalls capture the joyful spirit of a Paris Christmas celebration like nothing else.
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8. Visit Paris Museums With Holiday Themes
If you want something cozy and cultural, several museums offer special experiences during winter. They make a perfect break from the cold and add a unique twist to your Christmas itinerary.
- Musée Maillol: Open on December 25 with the playful Geluck Expose Le Chat exhibition, offering art with humor and charm.
- Aquarium de Paris: Also open on Christmas Day and great for families—warm, relaxing, and full of fascinating marine life.
- Dalí Museum: Located in Montmartre and home to over 300 works, this museum immerses you in Dalí’s surreal and imaginative world.
9. Take a Holiday River Cruise
A river cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the season. With twinkling views and festive décor, these cruises turn winter evenings into unforgettable memories, an easy highlight of any Paris Christmas events itinerary.
- Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise
Enjoy a special dinner with panoramic views of the sparkling city. The elegantly decorated boat, live music, and festive ambiance make it one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Paris.
- Vedettes de Paris Guided Cruise
A lighter alternative perfect for daytime or evening sightseeing during your Paris Christmas celebration. This guided cruise offers entertaining commentary, stunning illuminated monuments, and a relaxed, festive experience for families or first-time visitors.
- Phase Vol. 2 Dinner Cruise
For a more intimate experience, this charming barge features a festive dinner, seasonal décor, and breathtaking views of the city lights. It’s a cozy way to enjoy the magic of winter on the Seine.
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Tips for Spending Christmas in Paris France
Planning a magical winter getaway becomes much easier when you understand how to navigate the city’s festive season. Many travellers dream of Xmas in Paris, and with the right preparation, your trip can feel effortless and memorable.
Whether you're wandering through illuminated streets, indulging in seasonal desserts, or discovering hidden corners of Christmas in Paris France, these practical tips will help you enjoy every moment.
- Book Early and Plan Smart
Hotels, Christmas Eve dinners, cabaret shows, and river cruises sell out quickly, especially for those coming to experience Paris during Christmas. Make restaurant bookings and activity reservations ahead of time to secure the best options. The demand for festive menus is high because many visitors love the charm of Paris and Christmas evenings filled with cozy ambience and elegant dining.
- Check Holiday Opening Hours
One of the most important things to know about Paris in December is that Christmas Eve (Dec 24) features early closures, while Christmas Day (Dec 25) has limited openings. Some attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, select museums, and certain Seine cruises, remain open and become unforgettable highlights of Xmas in Paris. Planning around these schedules ensures you don’t miss out on must-see experiences.
- Understand Transport During the Holidays
Public transport runs on a reduced Sunday/holiday timetable on Dec 24 and 25. The metro and RER are reliable but slower, so allow extra time when heading to dinners or shows. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available throughout the holiday period, making it easy to return to your hotel.
- Dress Warmly and Carry Waterproof Layers
The weather in Paris in December is cold, often rainy, and sometimes windy. Layering is key, warm coats, scarves, gloves, and water-resistant shoes make it easier to enjoy long evening walks. Staying comfortable ensures you can soak in the atmosphere of Xmas in Paris without cutting outings short due to the cold.
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- Keep a Flexible Itinerary
Rain is common in December, so have backup indoor plans such as cafés, museums, covered passages, and warm tea salons. A flexible plan allows you to enjoy the best of Paris and Christmas without feeling rushed. Many travellers say the spontaneity, stopping for hot chocolate or wandering through decorated streets, is what makes Xmas in Paris so special.
- Enjoy Traditional Holiday Foods
Christmas food is an essential part of Xmas in Paris. Try festive favourites like oysters, foie gras, bûche de Noël, roasted chestnuts, cheese platters, and vin chaud from the markets. These rich flavors enhance the holiday mood and give you a taste of authentic Paris during Christmas traditions.
- Explore Christmas Markets Early
Christmas markets across the city are lively, colourful, and filled with surprises. Visiting during the day helps you avoid crowds and gives you time to browse gifts peacefully. Many travellers exploring Christmas celebration in Paris love starting their mornings at these festive stalls before returning later for warm drinks under glowing lights.
- See the Iconic Holiday Landmarks
A major highlight of Paris in December is experiencing monumental landmarks wrapped in festive sparkle. Watching the Eiffel Tower glitter in winter is a must, and special moments around Eiffel Tower Paris Christmas settings, like evening strolls or river-cruise views, often become trip-defining memories.
- Visit the Department Store Displays
Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann create world-famous holiday windows each year. These displays bring an artistic twist to Christmas in Paris France, attracting families, travellers, and photographers throughout the season. The indoor decorations, massive trees, and rooftop views make them essential visits for anyone celebrating Xmas in Paris.
- Enjoy a Peaceful Christmas Day
Christmas Day is surprisingly calm in Paris. Many attractions close, but the quiet streets, beautifully decorated bridges, and gentle river views make Dec 25 dreamlike. Walking through Île Saint-Louis or Montmartre on Christmas morning is a serene, magical experience that perfectly represents Paris and Christmas charm.
Why Choose WanderOn for a Christmas Celebration in Paris
WanderOn brings a warm, festive touch to Parisian holidays, offering trips that feel thoughtfully crafted rather than routine.
- Season-ready itineraries: Our plans are shaped specifically for the holiday vibe in Paris, letting you enjoy everything from the glittering pre-Christmas charm to the lively New Year celebrations.
- A wide range of experiences: Whether you dream of cosy cafés, dazzling light shows, winter markets, or iconic landmarks dressed in festive décor, our trips reveal the very best of Paris during Christmas.
- Ideal for group travellers: Solo explorers and social travellers love the friendly groups on our departures. It’s an easy way to meet people, share moments, and experience the city together.
- Experiences at the centre: Instead of just ticking off sights, our itineraries focus on immersive moments, think riverside strolls, sparkling night views, and seasonal festivities unique to Christmas in Paris France.
- Upfront and simple pricing: Every trip clearly shows inclusions, budget options, and durations so you can plan your holiday with zero confusion.
- Festive highlights included: From illuminated avenues to Paris Christmas markets and special evenings, these additions make your Xmas in Paris feel extra magical.
- Comfort all the way: Handpicked stays, smooth transport, and warm, supportive trip leaders ensure your holiday feels effortless.
- Options for every budget: Whether you want an affordable Paris escape or a luxurious festive getaway, you’ll find a trip that matches your style.
- Support at every step: Our team helps you choose the ideal year-end itinerary, ensuring your Paris Christmas celebration is as exciting and stress-free as possible.
No matter how you choose to spend it, Christmas in Paris is pure magic. From twinkling lights and cozy cafés to festive markets and ice skating under the stars, the city offers endless ways to soak up the holiday spirit. If you’re wondering how to celebrate Christmas in Paris, start with a stroll along the Champs-Élysées, sip hot chocolate at a charming tearoom, or hop on a Seine river cruise for unforgettable views. Looking for the best places to celebrate Christmas in Paris? The Eiffel Tower, Montmartre markets, and elegant department stores are just the beginning. And if you happen to be here on Christmas Eve in Paris, the city truly comes alive with festive energy, making it a holiday you, and your memories, will never forget.
