Christmas in Paris: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

Christmas is a fabulous time to visit Paris as the city transforms into a winter storybook, with festive lights and decorations adorning the streets. Iconic Christmas markets like those at the Tuileries Garden and Notre Dame bring a lively holiday spirit, perfect for shopping for local crafts and tasting mulled wine. Many major attractions, such as the Pompidou Centre and famous churches, remain open during the season. Though temperatures range between 36°F and 45°F, it's rarely freezing. You can enjoy ice skating at Hôtel de Ville and embrace the cozy atmosphere of Paris’s romantic restaurants and vibrant nightlife.

Expect chilly, but manageable weather if you're heading to Paris for Christmas. Daytime highs sit around the mid-40s°F and nighttime temperatures drop to the mid-30s°F. Rainfall can occur on roughly half the days in December, so it’s wise to pack warm layers and a sturdy umbrella. Despite the cold and occasional showers, the city's festive decorations and twinkling lights more than make up for it. The cozy streets, holiday atmosphere, and world-famous attractions make Paris a beautiful destination, even when winter’s chill sets in.

Tuileries Christmas Market

The Tuileries Christmas Market features over 100 chalets and attracts more than 13 million visitors each holiday season. Located in the beautiful Tuileries Garden, right next to the Louvre, this market hosts a festive atmosphere that blends tradition with Parisian charm. You can enjoy the panoramic views from the enormous Ferris wheel for a unique perspective of the city during the holidays. For families, the ice skating rink is a highlight, with a separate section dedicated to young children. The market embraces the majesty of Christmas in Paris, perfect for those looking to experience the seasonal ambiance in the City of Light.

Eiffel Tower Christmas Village

Located at Champ de Mars, the Eiffel Tower Christmas Village has breathtaking views of the illuminated Eiffel Tower while you wander through nearly 100 stalls. This market provides an enchanting holiday experience, with a variety of traditional foods, such as foie gras, salmon, and festive poultry dishes, all perfectly paired with champagne. The setting, right next to one of Paris's most iconic landmarks, creates a welcoming atmosphere for you to enjoy while taking in the festive lights. It's the perfect spot for indulging in the flavors of the season while surrounded by the beauty of Christmas decorations in Paris.

Notre-Dame de Paris Christmas Market

Set in a charming park directly across from Notre Dame Cathedral, the Christmas market is renowned for its high-quality French arts and crafts. With a stunning view of the cathedral's medieval towers, it ensures a uniquely festive backdrop for holiday shopping. You can find a range of handcrafted items, including cashmere scarves, handmade toys, and other artisanal gifts, making it a great place to pick up something special. Seasonal specialties like roasted chestnuts and mulled wine add to the cozy atmosphere, making this market a beloved part of Christmas in Paris.

La Défense Christmas Market

The La Défense Christmas Market hosts more than 150 chalets that offer a diverse array of festive goods. Located in the modern business district, this market features a Canadian section where you can purchase Quebec maple syrup and other unique treats. The carousel and creative workshops make it a fun destination for families, while food lovers can indulge in oysters, regional sausages, and other delicacies. Its contemporary setting, combined with traditional holiday crafts, makes it a standout for those seeking a different Christmas market experience in Paris.

Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market

Located at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, this market features hundreds of decorated fir trees, creating a rural winter escape in the heart of the city. Annual themes add an extra layer of excitement to the festive atmosphere. You can browse for "Made in France" gifts at the alpine-style chalets, ensuring a distinctly Parisian holiday shopping experience. The vintage carousel is perfect for children, making it a family-friendly spot to enjoy Christmas in Paris. It's an ideal location to experience the charm and spirit of the season.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market

Nestled near the iconic Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, this Christmas market is known for its luxury items and gourmet treats. With about 30 chalets, it specializes in high-end products, including fine leather goods, jewelry, and French gastronomy. You can indulge in gourmet delights like caviar, smoked salmon, and truffles, adding a touch of elegance to your holiday experience. The market’s intimate atmosphere, combined with its focus on luxury, makes it a favorite for those seeking a more refined Christmas market experience in Paris.

Montmartre Christmas Market

Located at Place des Abbesses, the Montmartre Christmas Market offers a smaller, more intimate holiday experience in one of Paris’s most picturesque districts. Known for its artisanal products and charming surroundings, this market is perfect for those looking for unique, handcrafted gifts. The festive atmosphere of Montmartre, with its cobblestone streets and breathtaking views, adds to the majesty of the season. As you wander through the stalls, you can soak in the authentic Parisian holiday charm, far from the larger crowds of the city’s more bustling markets.

6th Arrondissement: Best Place for Sightseeing

With many indoor cafés and restaurants, the 6th arrondissement is ideal for those looking to enjoy Christmas in Paris while avoiding too much exposure to the winter chill. The Paris Metro makes getting around easy and you are close to indoor attractions like the Musée d'Orsay and Luxembourg Palace, perfect for cozying up while exploring. Strolling through the Christmas markets in Paris, like those near Saint-Germain-des-Prés, adds a festive touch to your visit. As you walk along the charming streets, you’ll also encounter stunning Christmas decorations that enhance the vibrant holiday atmosphere.

Jardin d'Acclimatation: Best Place for Families with Children

A holiday favorite for families, Jardin d'Acclimatation turns into a festive village, complete with rides, workshops, and a mini farm. Located near Bois de Boulogne, this destination allows for a nature-filled escape from the city while still enjoying the typical beauty of the holiday season. The park's holiday lights and cheerful displays make it a top spot for children to experience Christmas in Paris. For parents, it’s the perfect mix of entertainment and relaxation, with plenty of cozy cafés nearby to warm up with a hot drink.

Île Saint-Louis: Best Place for Romantic Scenery

Christmas in Paris wouldn’t be complete without a romantic stroll along Île Saint-Louis. The charming streets, adorned with Christmas decorations, create a peaceful ambiance perfect for couples. Cozy bistros and intimate cafés provide the ideal spots for a warm meal or hot chocolate as you take in the serene holiday atmosphere. Proximity to Christmas markets in Paris, like the one at Notre Dame, adds to the festive experience, making this a must-visit for those seeking romance during the holidays.

Canal Saint-Martin: Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

This picturesque canal area is an excellent choice for those seeking quieter spaces. With its charming footbridges and boutique-lined streets, Canal Saint-Martin offers a more local experience compared to central Paris neighborhoods. During the holiday season, the area is decked out with subtle yet charming Christmas decorations, adding a festive yet relaxed vibe. It’s a great place to enjoy a peaceful stroll away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist spots, while still soaking in the wintery charm of the city.

Luxury Christmas Shopping Experience

Indulge in a luxury Christmas shopping experience with a personal shopper and private driver to escort you through Paris’s most prestigious shopping districts. Enjoy VIP access to exclusive boutiques like Hermès, Chanel, and Dior, where you can select curated gifts with elegant wrapping and direct shipping. Wander through the festively decorated streets of Place Vendôme and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, where dazzling Christmas decorations enhance the holiday spirit. With access to some of the world’s top fashion houses, this experience ensures you find the perfect gifts while soaking in the city's glamorous ambiance.

Stay at a Palace Hotel

Immerse yourself in luxury with a stay at one of Paris’s iconic palace hotels, such as Le Ritz or Le Crillon, where festive touches like twinkling Christmas trees and crackling fireplaces create a warm holiday atmosphere. These renowned accommodations are adorned with elegant holiday decor and provide unparalleled service, making them the perfect place to unwind after exploring Christmas markets in Paris. For a more intimate experience, choose from exclusive options like La Réserve Paris or Le Saint James, each located near prime shopping districts and top city attractions. These opulent hotels embody the essence of Christmas in Paris, containing luxury and comfort.

Gourmet Dining Tour

Delight in a gourmet dining tour of Paris, featuring reservations at exclusive restaurants like Tour d'Argent and Jules Verne. Taste traditional holiday delicacies such as foie gras and oysters, while indulging in champagne and caviar-tasting experiences. Whether you're dining in Michelin-starred establishments or sampling seasonal fare at Christmas markets in Paris, the festive culinary atmosphere is irresistible. For a memorable souvenir, purchase French delicacies to take home and savor the flavors of Christmas in Paris long after your visit.

Bespoke Perfume Experience

Create your own signature fragrance at renowned Parisian maisons like Molinard and Galimard, where you can customize every aspect of the scent to reflect your personal style. As part of this luxury Christmas in Paris experience, you can even have perfume bottles engraved at Guerlain, turning your creation into a one-of-a-kind gift. Explore luxury candles from brands like Trudon and Diptyque, known for their festive scents and perfect for filling your home with the warmth of the season. A personal consultation ensures your fragrance is truly unique and one that will remind you of your preferred aromas of Paris.

Luxury Jewelry Shopping

Step into the world of Parisian high jewelry by visiting historical maisons like Chaumet and Cartier, where generations of craftsmanship meet contemporary elegance. Explore collections at newer luxury brands such as Loyal.e and Messika, and even design your own custom-made pieces with the help of expert jewelers. This shopping experience, set against the backdrop of Place Vendôme with its glittering holiday lights, makes finding the perfect jewels feel personal and festive. With guidance from a personal shopper, you’ll uncover breathtaking treasures to mark your Christmas in Paris visit.

Exclusive Chalet Dinner

Escape the bustling city for an unforgettable exclusive chalet dinner in a hidden, luxurious location within Paris. The cozy chalet adorned with festive holiday decor becomes an intimate setting for a gourmet French meal in the heart of the city. Savor seasonal dishes prepared by top chefs as you bask in the warmth of a crackling fire, surrounded by an enchanting holiday atmosphere. The dining experience is a perfect way to enjoy Christmas in Paris away from the crowds, while indulging in the best of French cuisine.

Artisanal Gift Shopping

Discover a world of unique French craftsmanship with an artisanal gift shopping experience in Paris. Explore charming boutiques like Marin Montagut and Astier de Villatte, where you’ll find exquisite homeware, decor, and art pieces that reflect Paris’s artistic spirit. Visit specialty stores like La Maison du Bac for a curated selection of fine French products, from elegant tableware to luxurious candles. This personalized shopping experience allows you to find truly one-of-a-kind gifts, perfect for remembering your Christmas in Paris.

Eiffel Tower Dining Experience

Elevate your Christmas in Paris experience with an exclusive dinner at Jules Verne, the Michelin-starred restaurant located within the Eiffel Tower. Chef Frédéric Anton’s cuisine, paired with panoramic views of the city, creates an unforgettable fusion of fine dining and iconic sightseeing. The holiday season brings an added layer of festive beauty, with seasonal decor and a warm ambiance that enhances the occasion. Combining things to do in Paris at Christmas with gourmet indulgence, this experience is truly extraordinary.

Luxury Hot Chocolate Tasting

Warm up with a luxurious hot chocolate tasting at Carette, widely considered the best in the city and a beloved part of Christmas in Paris tradition. Sip rich, velvety chocolate paired with delicate macarons in a cozy, festive setting perfect for a winter afternoon. Whether you’re taking a break from holiday shopping or simply looking for a sweet treat, Carette offers a quintessential Parisian experience that’s sure to bring warmth and cheer during your holiday visit.

Personalized Book and Art Shopping

For a thoughtful and unique gift, enjoy personalized book and art shopping in Paris, where you can create a custom ex-libris stamp at Le Bon Marché. Browse stunning luxury books from Assouline that cover a wide array of topics, from travel to fashion, or explore one-of-a-kind art pieces and decor at galleries throughout the city. Expert curators will guide you through finding personalized gifts that reflect the recipient’s interests, making it an unforgettable part of your Christmas in Paris shopping experience.

Christmas in Paris becomes an enchanting experience filled with festive lights, holiday markets, and cozy cafés. Whether you're exploring the city's iconic landmarks, indulging in gourmet cuisine, or shopping for luxurious gifts, the warmth of the season surrounds you. With each corner of the city lit up for the holidays, Paris at Christmas is simply unforgettable.

Explore more of the festive ambiance and local beauty with our France travel guide, which will help you uncover more of the country’s seasonal spirit. You can also find more inspiration for planning your perfect getaway with our France tours.