During the Christmas season, Paris becomes a magical winter wonderland, with its streets, stores and landmarks decked out in festive decorations. Guests can enjoy a variety of experiences unique to this time of year, from dazzling light displays to traditional Christmas markets and various events. Add the ever-romantic atmosphere of Paris to this holiday spirit, and you are assured a memorable experience!

Good to Know:

• Getting There: With two major international airports, Paris is easily accessible by air. High-speed trains also run between Paris and major European cities, and an extensive network of highways makes the city easily accessible by car.
• Getting Around: The Paris subway system is efficient and covers the entire city. Buses and taxis are also readily available.
• Where to Stay: Consider staying in neighborhoods such as Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which are in the heart of Paris and close to the festivities.
• How Long to Visit: A short visit of 3-4 days is sufficient to see the top attractions and experience the Christmas spirit.
• Similar Destinations: For similar holiday experiences, consider Vienna, Austria, for its royal flair and Christmas markets, or New York City, USA, for its vibrant holiday celebrations and decorations.

Highlights:

Feel the Festive Spirit:

Paris at Christmas displays a stunning spectacle of lights and decorations that cast a warm, festive glow over the city. Central boulevards such as the Champs-Elysées are lined with thousands of twinkling lights. Bercy Village and Place Vendôme are also festively decked out. High-end stores rival each other in festive splendor, with the Galeries Lafayette standing out for its extravagant decorations and towering Christmas tree. Strolling through these stores and boulevards isn't just window shopping; it is experiencing the Parisian holiday season at its brightest--every window tells a story, and every light adds to the magic. Finally, the Jardin des Plantes takes the celebrations to the next level with its Festival of Lights, where colorfully illuminated sculptures of wild animals brighten the winter nights.

Marchés de Noël:

The Christmas markets of Paris couldn't be more varied. The Magie de Noël market in the Tuileries Gardens strays from the traditional European Christmas market and instead offers the thrill of a fair. Here, you can skate on ice rinks, enjoy thrill rides, and treat yourself to various fairground foods. In contrast, the markets at Notre Dame and the Hôtel de Ville are more traditional. They are perfect if you are looking for the nostalgic charm of festive food stalls, enchanting carousels and magical light displays.

Festival du Merveilleux:

Located in the Pavillons de Bercy, the Festival du Merveilleux invites you on a unique journey through the past. At the end of December, this festival opens its doors to a remarkable collection of antique fairground rides, some of which date back to the 18th century. Here, you'll have the rare opportunity to experience these historic rides, all while being surrounded by the joy and warmth of the holiday season.

Christmas Concerts:

In Paris, Christmas concerts are often hosted by numerous historic churches throughout the city, where the architecture enhances the resonance and beauty of the music. The grandeur of the high ceilings, the intricate stained glass windows, and the Gothic ambiance make for an all-encompassing and moving experience. In addition to the church concerts, the Eiffel Tower joins the musical festivities with special shows on its first floor. These performances of opera and classical music make for a unique experience in the city's most iconic landmark.