Christmas in Europe always trumps Christmas anywhere else in my book. We’ve tried a warm Christmas in Bali (not for me as far as Christmas weather goes), Christmas in several locations in the USA, and are trying Canada this year! However, Europe will always have a corner on Christmas magic for me.
Be it the quaint cobblestone streets or the buildings that feel like you are living in a Disney movie, European cities are so darling with some extra lights and Christmas magic. This is, perhaps, most true in Paris.
Paris, often called the “City of Lights,” transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland during Christmas. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, Christmas in Paris offers something magical for everyone. Let’s dive into how to make the most of your holiday season in the French capital.
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Paris begins its festive transformation in mid-November, with Christmas markets and decorations popping up across the city. The peak holiday season is from early December to the New Year, with lights and attractions remaining up until the first week of January. For the best experience, plan your visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more leisurely exploration.
Thanksgiving in Paris is a wonderful time to plan a visit! We brought out several of our team members to celebrate pre-Thanksgiving with us and loved the less crowded Christmas markets. It’s a great way to get that Christmas spirit flowing.
Pro Tip: Bundle up! Paris can be chilly in December, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). Layers, gloves, and scarves are your best friends. We were SO cold going to Disneyland Paris that we all wore several layers of pants, shirts, and even multiple pairs of gloves! It can be surprisingly cold.
By Train
Paris is well-connected by train, making it an excellent choice for travelers from Europe. The Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, and Gare Montparnasse are major hubs for international and domestic routes.
By Air
Charles de Gaulle and Orly are Paris’s main airports, both offering easy connections to the city via RER trains or shuttles.
The Paris Metro and buses are the most efficient ways to navigate the city. For families, consider purchasing a Paris Visite Pass, which offers unlimited travel for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. You can purchase the pass at major Metro and RER stations, tourist offices, and online through the official RATP website. Prices start at €13.20 for adults and €6.60 for children for a 1-day pass, with family packs available at discounted rates.
Paris’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, offering everything from artisan crafts to delectable treats. Here are a few must-visit markets:
Family Tip: Let the kids enjoy a hot chocolate while you sip on some vin chaud (mulled wine). The Montmartre market is especially cozy for little ones.
The Galeries Lafayette department store is a Parisian Christmas tradition. Its stunning tree, suspended in the middle of the store, changes themes every year. Head up to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower.
We tried to take in an opera in Paris for a date night, but the opera was a bust (think naked man running across the stage…no thanks). Thankfully, it was very close to this shopping area, and strolling through the window displays was lovely. We popped into some of the stores to grab some macarons (I am always on the hunt for the best macarons after we learned to make our own) and had a romantic city date instead.
Ice skating in Paris is a must during the holidays! Some of the best spots include:
Notre-Dame finally finished its restoration, re-opening this December 7th, 2024. Other beautiful churches like La Madeleine, Saint-Sulpice, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre offer enchanting midnight masses, providing a unique way to experience the spiritual side of Paris during Christmas. Don’t miss the Sacré-Cœur, where breathtaking views of the city await—I’ll include some pictures to inspire your visit.While exploring Paris, take a stroll to the famous lock bridge, a romantic and iconic spot where visitors leave their mark on the City of Light.
Bundle up and hop on a Seine River cruise to see Paris’s landmarks illuminated with festive lights. Many cruises offer seasonal treats like mulled wine or champagne, making it a romantic or family-friendly option.
Just a short train ride from the city, Disneyland Paris becomes a winter wonderland with festive parades, themed decorations, and even artificial snow on Main Street, U.S.A. We love this Disney as it’s currently our local Disney! I love the Christmas markets that pop up inside the park in mid-November and offer some delicious food like raclette.
1. Tootbus Open-Top Christmas Bus Tour
Experience Paris’s festive magic from the comfort of an open-top bus. This tour takes you through the city’s most iconic streets adorned with twinkling holiday lights. Wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, sip on hot chocolate, and let the holiday music set the mood.
2. Christmas Market and Illumination Guided Walking Tour
Visit Paris’s famous Christmas markets, see the city’s biggest indoor Christmas tree, and marvel at festive window displays. The tour ends with a stroll through the Tuileries Christmas Market, perfect for snacks and souvenirs.
3. Christmas Lights Walking Tour with Local Guide
Discover the magic of Paris at night during this guided tour through the city’s illuminated streets. Learn about French holiday customs as you explore iconic spots like Place Vendôme and the Champs-Élysées.
4. Segway Tour of Paris Highlights
Experience Paris in a fun and unique way on this 2.5-hour Segway tour. Glide through the city’s sidewalks and bike paths while discovering iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame. Learn about Paris’s rich history from your expert guide as you cover more ground with ease.
Festive Foods to Try
Drinks to Warm Up
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the artisanal food stalls at the markets for a true taste of Parisian holiday flavors.
Family-Friendly Restaurants To Visit
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Christmas in Paris is more than just a holiday; it’s an experience that blends culture, festivity, and timeless charm. From the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower to the cozy stalls of Christmas markets, every moment feels like stepping into a postcard. Whether you’re ice skating, enjoying a steaming cup of chocolat chaud, or marveling at the city’s iconic landmarks, Paris promises to make your holiday season unforgettable.
Merry Christmas!
Leslie
Travel Tip: This Charles Schwab Debit Card refunds ALL ATM fees globally! You can save a fortune on foreign fees! How cool is that? Perfect for your next family trip.
Booking your flight to Paris? Catch great fare deals from Booking.com, Skyscanner, Kiwi.com, or Expedia, and get some budget-friendly tickets.
Find a family-friendly hotel in Paris from Booking.com, Expedia, or Vrbo, (we also love Tripadvisor and Hotels.com).
Discover more about Paris through fun activities from GetYourGuide, Airbnb Experiences, or Viator.
Need to rent a car? Visit Rentalcars.com. / Europcar
Get your family’s travel insurance from World Nomads / SafetyWing / TraveleEx
Want to have a photo shoot while traveling? Check out flytographer!
Capture your best travel memories in Paris as we do with a GoPro, Sony camera, or our favorite drones: DJI FPV, Air, and Mini.
Check out your travel necessities from a comprehensive list of all the 7Wayfinders Travel Must-Haves. Click Here!
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