Christmas in Paris, France: A Complete Guide for a Magical Holiday Visit

Experiencing Christmas in Paris, France feels like stepping into a real life holiday movie. Watch the French capital shine even brighter with twinkling lights, festive decor, and special activities to celebrate this magical season.

You will find sparkling markets tucked between historic buildings, elegant storefronts wrapped in twinkling lights, and festive treats that fill the air with the sweetest winter scents. Paris already has a way of making you fall in love, but something about Christmas in Paris makes the city even more enchanting.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to plan your visit, from holiday basics and outfit tips to the best Christmas activities, light displays, and day trips. If you are dreaming of a holiday trip that blends charm, beauty, and a little seasonal sparkle, Christmas in Paris, France is definitely a destination to experience this time of year.

Basic Info for Experiencing Christmas in Paris, France

Before diving into all the festive things to do, there are a few helpful things to know so you can prepare for an unforgettable holiday season in the City of Lights. Christmas in Paris, France is truly magical, and having the basics sorted will make your experience even smoother and more enjoyable.

Is it Worth Visiting Paris During Christmas?

Visiting Paris during Christmas is absolutely worth it! The city truly comes alive even more during the holidays with decorations, lights, seasonal menus, and holiday traditions that you will not experience at any other time of year.

You can wander illuminated boulevards, sip hot chocolate in cozy cafés, and explore some of the prettiest Christmas markets in Europe.

The best part is the atmosphere. There is a calm, romantic feeling that takes over the city during the winter season. Even the busiest neighborhoods feel a bit softer and more cheerful. If you love beautiful decorations, festive experiences, and mild but wintry weather, Christmas in Paris, France is a perfect choice.

Is it Cold in Paris at Christmas?

Christmas in Paris, France is usually cold, but not freezing. Most days range from 3 to 8 degrees Celsius, with crisp air and occasional rain. Snow is rare, but when it happens it makes the city feel like a winter postcard.

What to Wear During Christmas in Paris, France

Dressing for Christmas in Paris, France is all about staying warm, comfortable, and effortlessly chic. Nights feel colder when you are exploring markets, taking photos, and enjoying the lights, so warm accessories make a big difference. As long as you layer properly, the winter weather is completely manageable.

Parisians love simple yet stylish outfits, so think classic layers with a polished coat and accessories that elevate your look. A warm jacket, scarf, gloves, and a hat are essentials, and they will keep you cozy whether you are wandering the Champs Elysées or watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night.

Comfortable boots are the most important thing to pack since you will be walking through markets, cobblestone streets, and decorated neighborhoods all day long. Many travelers also bring one or two dressy outfits for Christmas dinners, cabaret shows, and evening cruises. If you choose warm layers and practical shoes, you will be able to enjoy the city from morning to night while still looking great in holiday photos.

Where to Stay in Paris for Christmas

The best places to stay for Christmas in Paris, France are neighborhoods that keep you close to the decorations and festive activities. Areas like Saint Germain, the Champs Elysees, and the Opera district are perfect for walking around and enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

You will also find that many hotels decorate beautifully for the season. Some lobbies are filled with Christmas trees, garlands, and glowing lights. Staying somewhere central will allow you to walk to many of the main attractions while soaking in the magic along the way.

Things to Do During Christmas in Paris, France

Christmas in Paris, France is full of festive experiences, dreamy decorations, markets, and special activities you can only enjoy during the holiday season. Here is everything worth adding to your list, each with a few details to help you plan the perfect visit.

Explore the Christmas Markets

Paris has some of the most charming holiday markets in Europe, and each one has something unique to offer. Whether you want mulled wine, festive treats, handmade gifts, or cozy winter vibes, the Christmas markets during Christmas in Paris, France are a must for soaking up the local holiday spirit.

Here are a few that you should check out:

1. Tuileries Garden

The Tuileries Garden Christmas Market is one of the largest and most festive in Paris. You can browse dozens of wooden stalls, try seasonal treats, and enjoy rides and little attractions scattered around the park. It is lively without feeling overwhelming, and it is beautiful at night with all the lights glowing.

This is a great spot if you want a big market experience with plenty of variety. You will find everything from mulled wine and raclette to souvenirs, handmade ornaments, and French specialties.

2. Abbesses Christmas Market

Located in the heart of Montmartre, this cozy Christmas market feels like a village scene. The setting is already charming, and the holiday touches make it even more magical. You can stroll between the stalls, warm up with hot drinks, and enjoy the local atmosphere away from the busier parts of Paris.

This is a wonderful spot for photos, shopping, and soaking up the authentic charm of Christmas in Paris, France.

3. Hotel de Ville Christmas Market

The Hotel de Ville Christmas Market is one of the most picturesque. The grand building creates a perfect backdrop for wooden chalets, lights, and seasonal decorations. It is especially popular for families and travelers looking for a classic European-style market.

You can ice skate here some years, depending on the season, and the decorations are some of the most beautiful in the city.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

4. Place de la Concorde

One of the newest and most exciting additions to Christmas in Paris, France is the Place de la Concorde Christmas Market. Set right beside the giant Ferris wheel and sparkling holiday lights, this market has a truly magical setting. You can stroll between wooden chalets, enjoy seasonal snacks, and see unique holiday displays.

The market is especially beautiful at night, with the lights from the Champs Elysees creating the perfect holiday backdrop. It is a great place to grab a mulled wine, pick up gifts, and snap some incredible Christmas photos. If you want a market that feels both central and scenic, this one should be at the top of your list.

5. Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower, and during the holiday season the area around it comes even more alive with wooden cabins and locals selling unique handicrafts. It's classic, and surprisingly authentic, making it a must if you are spending Christmas in Paris, France.

 6. Visit Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is one of the most iconic Christmas stops in Paris. The department store is known for its spectacular Christmas tree displayed under the massive glass dome, and every year it has a new theme that brings visitors from around the world.

The window displays are just as impressive, but the true highlight is the glass platform that let's you get up close to the top of the tree! The entire store becomes a holiday attraction during Christmas in Paris, France, and it's definitely one for the bucket list.

Keep in mind that for the platform you will need a reservation. It's free of charge, but time slots are given for people to take photos there.

Enjoy the Christmas Decorations

Paris transforms during the holidays, with neighborhoods, boutiques, and grand boulevards glowing with elaborate Christmas installations. Wandering around to see the decorations is one of the best free things to do during Christmas in Paris, France, and every corner feels magical in its own way.

Here are some of the best spots to enjoy the lights and snap some cute holiday photos!

7. Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton’s holiday decorations are always creative and bold. The brand uses imaginative window displays and delicate decor covering the entire building which become some of the most photographed of the season.

8. Dior

The Dior storefront is one of the most famous decorations each year. The brand creates unique displays that are glamorous, creative, and perfect for photos. It is one of the most visited Christmas spots in Paris, especially those that love some extra sparkle.

9. Le Village Royal

This tiny passageway becomes a sparkling holiday tunnel with lights hanging overhead with adorable displays like giant teddy bears and hot air balloons. Le Village Royal is great for photos, shopping, and enjoying luxurious holiday displays in a quiet setting.

10. Place Vendome

Place Vendome shines beautifully during the holidays. The elegant trees and golden lights complement the architecture perfectly, making it one of the most glamorous Christmas stops in Paris.

11. Place Maurice Barres

This little square turns festive with elegant decor and twinkling lights. It is not as crowded as the main boulevards, so it feels like a small Parisian secret during Christmas in Paris, France.

This was actually at the top of my list for holiday displays, and ironically one of the only places we didn't make it to. Regardless, we couldn't help but recommending it from the photos we've seen!

12. Avenue Montaigne

This high end avenue is known for its luxury decorations. You can walk past beautifully wrapped storefronts, glowing trees, and elegant window displays while enjoying a peaceful holiday stroll.

13. Ralph Lauren Saint Germain

This boutique decorates with classic holiday charm. Wreaths, garlands, lights, and warm lighting create a picture perfect scene. It looks beautiful both day and night.

14. Rue Saint Honore

Rue Saint Honore sparkles with festive lights and decorated boutiques. It is one of the best streets to walk if you want that glamorous Paris Christmas atmosphere.

15. Champs Elysees

The Champs Elysees Christmas lights are iconic. The entire avenue glows with rows of lights that create a magical holiday tunnel. It is equally beautiful whether you walk or drive through it.

16. La Samaritaine

La Samaritaine is another shopping center that goes all out for Christmas, and creates stunning holiday displays both inside and out. The department store often features elaborate decorations, themed installations, and seasonal details that are perfect for wandering and admiring.

17. Galerie Vivienne

This historic passageway is charming all year, but at Christmas it is truly magical. Lights, garlands, and festive touches fill the corridor with nostalgic beauty, making it particularly photogenic at this time.

 Go Ice Skating

Paris sets up pop up ice rinks during the holiday season, making it a perfect winter activity. Some years there are rinks at Hotel de Ville, and others are located inside or near major landmarks. Skating at night with the lights glowing around you is a magical way to enjoy the season.

This is a great activity for friends, couples, and families. Even if you are not an expert skater, it is fun to join the festive atmosphere.

18. Skate at Le Grande Palais des Glaces

Skating at Le Grand Palais des Glaces is one of the most spectacular holiday experiences you can have in Paris. The ice rink is set beneath the legendary glass roof of the Grand Palais, which creates the most magical atmosphere with shimmering lights and towering architecture all around you.

This rink is huge, and the energy is super fun. You will see families, couples, and groups of friends enjoying the festive music and glowing winter ambiance.

It is a great place to take beautiful photos and enjoy a holiday activity that feels glamorous and very Parisian. If you are visiting Paris during Christmas, this is one activity you will remember forever, and that you can enjoy whatever the weather!

 19. Christmas Lights Tour

A Christmas lights tour is one of the best ways to experience the magic of Christmas in Paris, France. You can sit back and enjoy illuminated monuments, glowing streets, decorated storefronts, and festive neighborhoods all in one experience.

This is especially great in the evening when the entire city comes to life with color, and it gives a rest to your feet. It is relaxing, fun, and perfect for your first night in Paris.

20. Cosmic Igloo

Head to the Four Seasons for one of the most glamorous Christmas pop-ups in Paris, a giant glass dome fills with twinkling lights. You can also make a reservation at their resaurant for an even more luxurious night out!

 21. Christmas Cruise

A Christmas cruise is one of the most fun and scenic activities in Paris during the holidays!Enjoy a festive meal along the Seine while admiring some of the most beautiful views in Paris. You can see the monuments from the water, all while enjoying delicious holiday dishes.

It is a peaceful and elegant way to celebrate Christmas in Paris, France, especially if you want something memorable and seasonal, and there are options for both day and night, as well as ones that are specific to Christmas day.

 Experience the Magical Castles for the Holidays

Visiting nearby castles during Christmas in Paris, France is a dream. They decorate their halls, add festive lights, and create enchanting winter atmospheres that feel straight out of a storybook.

22. Chateau Chantilly

Chateau de Chantilly decorates beautifully for the holidays and often hosts Christmas events that include lights, shows, and themed activities. The castle is stunning in winter and feels like an absolute fairytale setting.

It is an easy day trip from Paris and a great break from the city if you want a festive adventure in a uniquely historic setting.

23. Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte

This chateau is one of the most magical Christmas experiences near Paris. The halls are decorated floor to ceiling, the gardens light up with twinkling displays, and the entire property feels like a holiday dream.

It is one of the best day trips to add to your Christmas in Paris, France itinerary, and many of the day tirps also include a combo package that includes either Versaille or Fontaineblu.

24. Enjoy a Christmas Eve Dinner & Cabaret Show

Visiting Paris while it's Christmas Eve? December 24th in Paris can be celebrated in total Parisian style with a festive cabaret show paired with a holiday dinner. There is a special Christmas program with music, performances, and celebratory menus, making it one of the most unique things to do in Paris during Christmastime.

It is an unforgettable way to spend Christmas Eve in Paris, combining entertainment with classic French dining.

Don't plan on being there for Christmas Eve? You can also capture the Christmas Cabaret other days of December - some tickets include champagne, and some include dinner!

Christmas in Paris, France: Final Thoughts & What's Next

Christmas in Paris, France is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Europe. The lights, the markets, the decorations, and the atmosphere make it one of the best destinations for December, and one you won't want to miss out on this holiday season. 

Whether you spend your days exploring neighborhoods, visiting chateaus, or enjoying holiday cruises, you will find beauty in every corner of this stunning city. If you love festive experiences and winter magic, Christmas in Paris, France will be one of your favorite holiday memories.

What's Next?

Now that you know all about what Christmas in Paris, France is like, let's help you explore all of the other ways to enjoy this holiday season!

Here are some other Christmas guides that we have for you:

 The Best Places to Visit in December

 The Ultimate Guide to Winter in Tallinn

A Guide to Winter in Riga

 22 Christmas Bars in NYC

 17 Christmas Restaurants in NYC

 29 Christmas Activities in NYC

 The 8 Best Locations for Christmas Lights in NYC

 52 Fun Things to Do This December in New York

Lapland Winter Packing List

 Reindeer Ride Experience in Rovaniemi

 A Guide to Visiting Santa Claus Village

 Snowman World in Rovaniemi

 The Ultimate Winter Bucket List

Lapland Guide for Beginners

...and more articles about Christmas in New York and traveling in France coming each week!

So, are you ready to experience an incredible Christmas in Paris, France? We hope our guide has helped you plan the most magical holiday getaway. Have any other questions though? Feel free to drop them in the comments below!

Want to learn more about visiting Paris other areas of France? We have tons of other France Travel Guides for you, as well as new ones coming up each week! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so that you're able to stay up to date with our most recent content, and get special discounts on our shop.

Ready to start planning the best trip to Paris and beyond? Well, we're here to help! Scratch Your Mapa offers customized travel planning, so you can skip the hassle, and just enjoy your trip to its fullest. Take a peak at our travel planning packages we offer, or simply email us to get started today!

Here are some other guides you'll love: