Christmas in Paris: The 10 Best Things to See and Do

Jingle bells ring as Paris sparkles with holiday cheer, transforming into a winter wonderland that captures the hearts of all who visit!

Christmas in Paris is truly enchanting! The city brightens with fairy lights, from the Champs-Élysées to the breathtaking rainbow tree at Galeries Lafayette; don’t forget to witness the amazing window displays that captivate visitors from all around the globe. While touring the outdoor celebrations, treat yourself to the warm atmosphere of Parisian tea cafes, restaurants, and delectable treat-serving bakeries all beautifully adorned for the Christmas season. If you are fortunate enough to be in Paris this winter season, make sure to explore these 10 best attractions that will take your holiday ethos to another level!

After a long period of shiny crimson appearance, Paris’s legendary Champs-Élysées, home to 400 trees, has changed its style to something more interesting. This year, the venue will be concentrating on eco-friendly displays with LED lights. These will glisten from 5 pm to midnight and will radiate the place all night long. Experience the alluring change of this iconic avenue to a holiday wonderland this Christmas season!

One of the best things to do in Paris in December is to stroll across these lively Christmas markets of Notre Dame. The amazing market at Square René Viviani right across Notre Dame is showcasing about 30 stalls offering special delicacies, mouthwatering hot chocolate, and handmade crafts. If you want to take your exploit to the next level, head towards the majestic Tuileries garden, where you get to witness hundreds of alluring wood cabins packed with exceptional presents and delectable treats. Moreover, this place also has beautiful displays of French artisan talents, including woodworkers and glass blowers.

Christmas in Paris is incomplete without a proper festive theme; thus this holiday season BHV/Marais has totally changed itself into an ethereal woodland. Exhibiting numerous workshops and exhibitions throughout the month, it has also arranged a Canada-theme pop-up featuring amazing Canadian goods. At the Samaritaine, a whimsical Willy Wonka atmosphere awaits, thanks to a delightful partnership with Warner Bros. Meanwhile, Printemps Haussmann boasts a stunning installation by renowned artist Mathilde Nivet, featuring around 100 intricately crafted paper birds that convey heartfelt holiday wishes. Paris truly dazzles during Christmas, offering some of the most enchanting holiday displays that will make your celebrations unforgettable.

Paris during Christmas perfectly transforms itself into a frosty dreamland; you will witness the whole city adorned with beautiful Christmas trees in the winter season. Galleries Lafayette is the perfect destination to witness majestic and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Under the incredible art of the Nouveau dome, visitors are embraced by a breathtaking 15-meter Christmas tree that is adorned with glittery garlands and divine creatures. It’s a view that surpasses New York City’s Rockefeller Center tree lighting! Make sure to explore the atrium this winter to truly admire the lively showcases. For an even better glimpse, walk towards the glass walk on the third floor, it’s a picture-perfect spot to have some beautiful pictures snapped of this amazing place.

Explore the magnificent 300 square meter skating rink at the Trocadéro Christmas village, where all of your Iceland adventures can come true. Slide over the rink with a panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower. How cool is that? Or for a next-level exploit go for a frosty venture at the Tuileries Gardens, where a massive rink will be available to you for skating in early January. Don’t miss out on these thrilling winter exploits, grab your closest friends and make some Christmas memories.

Nothing makes a soul warm in winter like a cup of hot chocolate. For a truly exceptional experience head over to Angelina on Rue de Rivoli, where the rich Chocolate Chaud Africain tastes like heaven in your mouth. It’s just simply divine, for a comfortable dine-in experience, visit the chocolatier Jacques Genin’s and enjoy the rich smooth hot chocolate made from whole milk and quality dark chocolate pistols. Don’t forget to try Miss Café Pavane, an alluring tea café offering delectable pastries and mouthwatering hot chocolate that are worth visiting.

This Christmas in Paris, the star of the winter season is the legendary Bûche de Noël! Indulge your taste buds with a delightful teatime experience at La Halle aux Grains, where you can savor a creamy hazelnut and buckwheat bûche. Next, head to Lucas Carton for an exceptional Christmas menu set in a breathtaking Art Nouveau ambiance. Be sure to enjoy Matthieu Carlin’s exquisite bûche, perfectly paired with rich hot chocolate or warm tea for the ultimate festive treat!

Experience the magic of Place Vendome, a breathtaking masterpiece from the early 18th century, just a short drive away from the river. Constructed by Louis Xiv, this legendary destination showcases majestic bronze region and contemporary elegant boutiques like Tiffany, etc. Start your dreamy Christmas stroll from Rue de la Paix, then traverse the square and witness Louis Vuitton's flagship store. Be sure to meander through the magical Tuileries Gardens to wrap up your incredible evening!

This winter season the amazing Jardin des Plantes will change into a mesmerizing radiant dream world. Instead of holiday lights, hundreds of enchanting lanterns shaped like plants and animals will sail across the sky illuminating it all the way. Don’t forget to witness this ethereal event if you are visiting Paris for your vacation this winter.

Looking for a luxurious French dine-in in Paris? Some of the local favorites keep their authentic menus with a holiday twist, head towards Au Pied de Cochon for their delectable authentic food or enjoy the amazing food at Le Train Bleu, if you are spending freely, treat your taste buds to Michelin-starred meals at elegant hotels like the Hôtel de Crillon.

In a nutshell, Paris during the winter season offers a perfect blend of festivities and culinary excellence. From the busy Christmas markets to the bold flavors of the holiday treats, the city promises everyone something enchanting. So welcome the joy and the warmth of Paris this winter season with a great blast and create memories that will last a lifetime.