Paris through the Christmas season ah, what a sight to behold! Think about strolling by way of streets that twinkle like a starry sky, because of the enchanting lights. Town transforms right into a Christmas wonderland, promising magical occasions and a festive spirit that’s exhausting to search out anyplace else.
It’s a perfect time to expertise the distinctive attraction of France’s capital. Nevertheless, amidst this plethora of pleasure, it’s straightforward to really feel a bit overwhelmed.
Salut, I’m Lena – Journey Planning Knowledgeable and parisienne since 2006 🩷
There’s a lot to see and do, from the twinkling lights of the Champs-Elysées to the charming Christmas markets. Every nook of town bursts with festive attraction, making it troublesome to resolve the place to go first.
However don’t fear, I’m right here to information you thru, making certain you don’t miss out on the quintessential Parisian Christmas experiences.
My High 3 Shortlist: Paris at Christmas
I’ve put collectively a helpful listing of the most well-liked Christmas actions in Paris in your comfort. If any of them spark your curiosity, it’s smart to behave swiftly. Similar to freshly croissants, these experiences are in excessive demand and have a tendency to promote out quick.
#1 Skilled Christmas Photoshoot in Paris: Verify right here for availabilities & costs
#2 Personal Christmas Tour by Evening in a CV2: Verify right here for charges & dates
#3 Paris at Christmas 3-Hour Bike Tour: Discover extra information & costs right here
CHECKLIST in your Paris Journey
Christmas in Paris: Sensible Journey Suggestions
However earlier than you dive in and get impressed on tips on how to fill your valuable trip days with actions, let’s check out the necessities.
Right here’s for you, a fast information on what to learn about touring to Paris throughout Christmas: How’s the climate, what do that you must pack, and the place to remain so that you can have probably the most great expertise.
That can assist you plan your Christmas journey to Paris, I put collectively a listing of issues which can be good to know when touring to Paris. For a extra intensive guidelines, check out my Paris Journey Planning & Packing Necessities.
Don’t miss out on these articles when getting ready in your Paris Christmas journey:
How’s the climate in Paris at Christmas?
The unhealthy information first: If you’re hoping for white Christmas in Paris, it’s in all probability not going to occur. December just isn’t a really chilly month in Paris, however moderately a moist one.
December often sees the highest precipitation of the yr, with temperatures ranging between 4° C ( 39 °F) and eight° C (46 °F), and dropping under zero through the evening.
However the excellent news is, that even for those who’ll have showers in December, it hardly ever rains in Paris for a whole day. Moreover, Paris has so many indoor actions, that you simply’ll hardly discover the climate anyway. Simply put together for altering climate and gown in layers, and the climate received’t be a problem.
How you can gown & what to pack for Paris throughout Christmas?
The best problem when packing for Paris in December is to anticipate altering temperatures and rain. Whereas it is likely to be fairly chilly exterior, indoors it’s usually fairly sizzling, overheated even. Therefore, the most effective is you are ready to gown in layers and carry some easy rain gear with you.
Tip: I at all times carry somewhat tote bag in my purse, so I can simply retailer my hat, scarf, and jacket when spending somewhat extra time in shops or museums.
#1 Waterproof Sneakers
December is the month with probably the most rainfall AND as effectively one of many coldest, so protecting your ft dry and heat is a should!
Your greatest and most versatile possibility is a pair of waterproof Chelsea boots. They appear not solely nice, however additionally they maintain your ft heat and dry.
Plus, you’ll be able to simply gown them up and down, and the sturdy sole provides grip on the slippery cobblestones. Should you keep in Paris, you don’t want heavy-lined winter boots, it’s sufficient in the event that they keep dry, and also you put on heat socks.
For extra winter shoe concepts, additionally check out my information concerning the greatest journey footwear for Paris.
#2 Small Journey Umbrella
Truthfully, you shouldn’t journey anyplace in Europe with no little umbrella in your
purse. This one is simply the right measurement to do each: slot in your purse and maintain you dry. It additionally comes with somewhat pouch, so you aren’t flooding your purse when placing the umbrella again, moist after utilization.
#3 Heat Merino Socks
One of the simplest ways to maintain your ft heat in Winter in Paris is by investing in a advantageous pair of high quality Merino Socks. I do know it hurts to spend a lot on a pair of socks, however from my very own (long-distance) climbing and journey expertise, I can assure you that it completely pays off.
They maintain your ft heat and dry, and forestall blisters.
My favorites are these ones. You discover as effectively extra reasonably priced Merino socks, however ensure that to confirm how a lot Merino wool they really have. The much less Merino, the cheaper – and the much less good.
It’s Excessive Season: Ebook your Attraction Tickets in Advance
I do know, it kills a bit the spontaneous, easy-going vacation vibe you’re actually eager on, however I can’t stress this out sufficient: Purchase your tickets prematurely! Christmastime is high-season in Paris, and plenty of sights might be sold-out fast.
Therefore, I strongly advocate reserving your entrance tickets effectively prematurely. Even when some sights have some leftover tickets, the queues are big, and also you’ll spend valuable time ready in strains.
Right here’s a listing with sights that promote out the quickest:
You too can buy tickets immediately on the sights homepages. Nevertheless, the draw back is that they often don’t have a cancellation coverage. Whereas reserving your Paris tickets with get your information, you’re usually granted a 24h cancellation and refund coverage.
Christmas in Paris: Listed below are the Greatest Issues to Do
However despite the fact that Paris’ winter might be chilly, and doubtless usually grey, moist, and windy, don’t fear! There are such a lot of issues to do in Paris, that whether or not you journey to Paris through the Winter or Summer time, you’ll by no means run out of actions.
While you spend Christmas time in Paris, you’ll be able to totally immerse your self within the Christmas magic. Glowing fairy lights, Christmas carols, mulled wine, and naturally, Christmas markets, gingerbread, and festive decorations. Should you love the vacation season, Paris is your home to be this Christmas.
Learn on and know tips on how to embrace Christmas in Paris to the fullest.
#1 Discover the Paris Christmas Market
Christmas Markets are a practice from the east of France and Germany, however for some years they’re very talked-about in Paris as effectively. The Tourism Workplace of Paris hasn’t printed the listing of Christmas Markets in 2024 but, however final yr there have been a minimum of 25 markets registered!
Most markets open on the first weekend of December, however some markets open their chalets already by the 18th of November. The one within the Tuileries for instance.
ATTENTION: Christmas Markets are a preferred place for PICKPOCKETS! Learn this text and know tips on how to stop getting scammed.
The most important Christmas Market in Paris is often at La Défense. Nevertheless, you’ll find smaller ones round Montmartre, Trocadero, and Saint Germain. Visiting a Christmas market is among the greatest issues to do in Paris in December.
Do you know that the oldest Christmas Market in Europe — and likewise one of many nicest — is lower than 2h away? Should you’re eager to get the complete Christmas expertise, verify this publish and know tips on how to take a day journey to Strasbourg!
#2 Cruise on the Seine: Admire the Illuminated Paris
Fast Hyperlink: Click on right here to e-book your cruise
Deal with your self to one thing particular and luxuriate in a Cruise on the Seine by evening. You’ll not solely be awarded some of the unimaginable views of Paris, however you additionally get to unwind, lean again, and respect a glass of Champagne, for those who like.
This price range possibility permits you to cruise up and down the Seine. It’s completely sufficient if you wish to take within the mesmerizing and twinkling citiyscape.
For a festive further, check out the Illuminated Dinner Cruise, although:
- 3-Course Dinner with Drinks
- Stay Jazz Music & Window Seating
- Panoramic views on Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and extra
- Boarding close to Musée d’Orsay
#3Tour Christmassy Paris with a Native!
With a neighborhood in your facet, you’ll be able to be sure you benefit from your journey to Paris throughout Christmastime. You’ll not solely discover corners you usually wouldn’t have set foot in, however you additionally get fascinating insider tales, anecdotes and a lot Christmas cheer.
Fortunately, there are a handful of native consultants obtainable to divulge to you what this unbelievable metropolis has to supply.
#4 Purchase Christmas Ornaments in Paris
With its many shops, Paris is a good place to refill on lovely and authentic Christmas decorations.
Essentially the most great choice you discover within the Bon Marché. The higher ground has many themed Christmas Bushes on show with loads of beautiful ornaments.
Nevertheless it’s as effectively an amazing concept to look out for cute Christmas decorations on the Parisian Christmas Markets.
#5 Get pleasure from Disneyland Paris at Christmas
Purchase your tickets to Disneyland prematurely, they promote out fast
It’s doubtless you at all times dreamed about visiting Disneyland, and perhaps you may have it already in your Paris must-do agenda. However know that Christmas at Disneyland is gorgeous, particularly if you’re a Disney fan.
You discover the park magically adorned and Christmas aptitude is all over the place. For a lot of, Disney is a should when visiting Paris round these occasions. Plus, if you’re visiting through the week, you’ll discover shorter queues.
Disneyland is an easy day journey from Paris by practice, as it’s only a brief experience.
For extra infos about planning your journey to Disney, see these posts:
#6 Take an Open Bus Tour to see the Illuminations
-> Safe your spot and e-book right here
Be sure you don’t miss something within the Christmas adorned Paris and join a sightseeing bus tour.
Throughout Christmas, you’ll not solely get a glimpse of probably the most lovely corners of Paris, however additionally, you will be granted incredible views of probably the most breathtaking Christmas illuminations of Paris. Simply don’t overlook a heat coat!
Click on right here for extra data and schedules in your Christmas lights bus tour.
#7 See the Festive Christmas Shows on the Massive Division Shops
A must-do for a lot of Christmas followers in Paris is the go to to the large shops. Not solely as a result of the facades of Gallery Lafayette, Le Bon Marche, Printemps Haussmann, and BHV are illuminated!
The window shows are revealing complete worlds of Christmas scenes with animated figures, wrapped presents, and every part that goes with it. If you’re already on the Galeries Lafayette, don’t miss their glorious meals corridor! Click on right here to know extra about it!
#8 Learn to Cook dinner a Conventional French Christmas Dinner
Did you ever want you would prepare dinner a French dish as an actual French Chef might? That’s your likelihood! Take a cooking class in Paris and study from knowledgeable French Chef tips on how to prepare dinner a 3-course Christmas Dinner from scratch! Click on right here for extra data
#9 Admire the Christmas Tree on the Galarie Lafayette
If you’re following Paris-related social media channels, you’ll discover that there’s barely one other matter by the top of November than the Christmas Tree on the Galerie Lafayette, and the large query: What’s the theme of 2024?!
The large tree is at all times gorgeous and one thing you shouldn’t miss in any respect. The tree get often revealed across the seventeenth of November and naturally, I at all times verify it instantly. Right here’s the tree from 2021:
Professional Tip: When you find yourself on the Galeries Lafayette to marvel on the Christmas tree, plan in a bit further time to go to the free rooftop.
It’s a great viewpoint, and really additionally an amazing spot to take incredible photographs of the Eiffel Tower.
#10 Benefit from the Christmas Decorations and Illuminations
Throughout Christmas, you’ll be shocked to search out many Parisian streets fantastically adorned and illuminated. Essentially the most well-known illuminations are alongside the Champs Élysée, however you discover them inside each neighborhood.
For instance, within the Rue Montorgueil or the Rue Daguerre.
These streets are glorious locations as effectively to purchase french specialties, as they’re dwelling to many delis. Don’t miss this publish if you wish to know extra about in hidden gems in Paris!
#11 Go Ice Skating
Paris at Christmas is Ice skating season. Throughout city ice skating rinks are opening, simply ready so that you can check out your abilities. Probably the most fashionable is on the massive Christmas Market within the Tuileries backyard.
For 2024, it’s not introduced but the place ice skating rinks might be put in. Nevertheless, prior to now, there was one on prime of the Tour Montparnasse, on the Roof High of the Galerie Lafayette, and even within the gorgeous Grand Palais! Keep tuned for 2024!
#12 Go to the Bon Marché
The Bon Marché is the place to be if you’re in search of Christmas presents in Paris. The massive Division retailer within the seventh Arrondissement is a wonderful place to refill on culinary treats but in addition for top finish purchasing and if you’re in search of authentic and distinctive Christmas Ornaments in Paris.
Don’t get misplaced although. The Bon Marché is unfold over a number of buildings which can be related by lined bridges.
#13 Stroll by way of the Coated Galeries of Paris
Do you know that again within the days, greater than 100 lined galleries had been sprinkled throughout Paris? The beautiful purchasing passages with the long-lasting glass roofs had been the primary purchasing malls in Paris. It’s right here the place the wealthy might comfortably run their errands, with out being bothered by the mud and the rain.
As we speak, round 20 of those lovely monuments are left and are simply good for outings on gray winter days. Essentially the most identified Galerie is the Galerie Vivienne, with classic e-book shops and eating places.
Different lovely arcades are the Passage du Grand Cerf and the Passage des Panoramas.
Tip: One of many greatest converse straightforward bar of Paris is tucked away in one of many Passages, learn this publish to know extra!
What to do in Paris on Christmas Day?
Should you plan to have a good time Christmas day in Paris, you may have many choices to make today a really memorable one. Nevertheless, know that many sights and museums shut on Christmas Day.
Not the Eiffel Tower, although! Ebook your tickets right here prematurely as a result of it is going to get very busy!
#14 Get pleasure from a festive Christmas Dinner on Christmas Eve at a Cabaret!
Click on right here to know which Cabarets in Paris are the most effective
If you’re celebrating Christmas Eve in Paris and are in search of a really festive and distinctive approach of spending this big day, take a look on the Cabarets! Many are internet hosting particular occasions on Christmas Eve with a festive dinner, Champagne, and naturally, the well-known Cabaret present.
Tip: These exhibits are wildly fashionable and quick bought out, reserve your spot fast. If you wish to be on the protected facet, some exhibits are providing free cancellations as much as 24h earlier than the present.
#15 Take a Panoramic Christmas Dinner Cruise
An distinctive approach of celebrating Christmas day in Paris – or Christmas Eve – is on board of a ship! Take this Cruise on the Seine and luxuriate in a festive 5-course Christmas dinner whereas having fun with the gorgeous view over the illuminated Paris by evening.
#16 Have a Bûche de Noel
The normal French Christmas cake! A Bûche de Noel is a Yuletide log made out of sponge cake with buttercream, icing, or/and ganache. It’s one of many indispensable meals objects to strive throughout Christmas season.
It’s a conventional French Christmas dish and often ate for dessert. A full-size Bûche is often for a whole household, however all all through Christmas time, you discover small Bûche in each Parisian bakery. Excellent for somewhat candy trait.
#17 Attend a Christmas Live performance
Throughout Christmas in Paris, many classical concert events and chorals are going down in Paris. Click on right here to know what’s occurring the place and buy your tickets.
#18 Attend a Christmas Mass in Paris
Parisian’s church buildings are clearly celebrating Christmas and you’ll select whether or not you wish to go to one of many massive church buildings just like the Basilica Sacré Coeur or Saint Sulpice, or attend a service at a native church.
Basilique de Sacré Coeur service instances
Christmas Eve
- 11 pm: Sung Christmas vigil
- Midnight: Midnight Mass
Christmas Day
- Mass: 7 am, 11 am, 6 pm, and 10 pm.
- Vespers: 4 pm
Tip: arrive at the least half-hour early
Et Voilà, that’s it! I hope I might offer you some concepts on what to do throughout Christmas in Paris. Should you want any clarification, be a part of my free Paris Journey Planning Fb Group!
Parisienne since 2006 🩷
Knowledgeable in: Parisian Life &
French Tradition, Journey
Planning, Crochet & Meals and Drinks
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