Christmas in Paris 2024: Top Things To Do

Last updated Oct 21, 2024

Discover the magic of Paris at Christmas time. Between the Christmas decorations and illuminations, the sweet smells of waffles and mulled wine wafting through the alleys of the Christmas markets and department stores dressing up their windows in magical scenes, what a wonderful time it is to spend the festive season in Paris.

Whether you want to enjoy a romantic break, a weekend with friends or spend time with the family, discover our Parisian aparthotels for an unforgettable stay. Our fully-equipped apartments and studios are the ideal option for visiting Paris at your own pace, feeling at home while enjoying the services of a hotel. In other words, the ultimate comfort! You'll be spoilt for choice: stay in the heart of Paris in our superb Gare de l'Est aparthotel, discover the buzzing business district at La Défense or head to Marne-la-Vallée to experience the magic of Christmas at Disneyland® Paris.

Many visitors flock from all over the world to visit Paris in winter. There's so much to see and do, but don't worry, we've compiled the essentials for a wonderful Christmas in Paris. Follow the guide!

1 - paris christmas markets

A not-to-be-missed event in Paris, the Christmas markets take place in several parts of the capital, much to our delight. And there's something for everyone!

Discover the Christmas markets as you stroll through Paris. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine at the Paris-Notre-Dame Christmas market, treat yourself to a little souvenir at Shizen, a Christmas village-market that puts Japanese culture in the spotlight, or enjoy a delicious crêpe while visiting the magic of Christmas at the Tuileries. Just a stone's throw from our Gare de l'Est aparthotel, you'll find a market from the region of Alsace, called Marché de Noël Alsacien, where a dozen artisans will delight you with their typical products such as Manneles, kougelhopfs and sauerkraut and artisanal creations. Or head to the forecourt of La Défense to discover the largest Christmas market in the Paris region. With activities for all the family, workshops, gourmet chalets and decorations, La Défense Christmas Village is definitely worth a visit!

Lovers of Christmas decorations and creative souls are in for a treat at the Klin d'Œil Christmas Market. Located right in the heart of the Carreau du Temple Market Hall, this Christmas market brings together 80 French designers, DIY workshops and lots of other surprises, all in a warm and musical atmosphere. Fashion, decor, kids, beauty, print and gourmet treats... Here you'll find unique handmade gifts. And if you want something really special, take part in their DYI's workshops! Suitable for young and old alike, you can try out a range of techniques, including screen printing, embroidery and pastels, and take your masterpiece home.

Paris Christmas Markets 2024:

  • Paris La Défense Christmas Market - 14 November to 29 December 2024

  • Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market - 16 November to 1 January 2024

  • Marché de Noël Alsacien at la Gare de l’Est – 29 November to 15 December 2024

  • Notre-Dame Christmas Market - 29 November to 25 December 2024

  • Shizen Japanese Christmas Village Market - 7 and 8 December 2024

  • Klin d'Œil creative Christmas market - 14 and 15 December 2024

 

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2 – christmas lights - champs-élysées, rue du faubourg saint honoré and more

Christmas trees, Christmas decorations and magical lights illuminate the French capital for the festive season. Don't miss the enchanting illuminations on the Champs-Élysées, Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, Montmartre and Place Vendôme. Young and old alike will marvel at the luminous arches, glittering trees and festive decorations. Get ready to be amazed!

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3 - discover the magical department stores' windows

As eagerly awaited as the Christmas markets, department stores' window decorations are a veritable institution at this time of year. Animated figures, festive decor, sparkling lights... Parisian department stores such as Printemps Haussman, Le Bon Marché and Galeries Lafayettes put on a real show at Christmas. As well as the window displays, the entire shops are decked out in festive lights and decorations, immersing young and old in the magic of Christmas in Paris.

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4 – christmas shopping in paris

The race for Christmas presents is on! Fortunately, Paris is brimming with shops of all kinds, ideal for finding gifts for all the family, friends, colleagues... in other words, everyone!

Paris is undoubtedly the destination of choice for gourmets. Local produce, a selection of wines, foie gras, chocolates... You're sure to find the perfect Christmas gift to treat your friends, family or just yourself. Visit La Grande Épicerie de Paris to discover their selection. The hardest part will be choosing!

Christmas shopping in Paris means shopping in the temple of fashion! With its luxury boutiques, designer shops and trendy boutiques, Paris is known across the world for its influence in the world of fashion. Galeries Lafayettes, Le Printemps, La Samaritaine, BHV Marais, Le Bon Marché, visit the Grands Magasins for an elegant shopping experience. Whether you're looking for eco-friendly, hand-crafted, streetwear or parisian style inspired gifts, Paris is full of concept stores of all kinds - ideal for finding inspiration.

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5 – christmas at disneyland® paris

A trip to Paris at Christmas time wouldn’t be complete without a magical escape to Disneyland® Paris. As if possible, the famous theme park is going even more magical during the festive season! From 9 November 2024 to 6 January 2025, come and celebrate the Disney Enchanted Christmas. Illuminations, decorations, parades and light shows will fill the park with festive cheer, creating unforgettable memories for kids and adults alike.

Enjoy the magic of Christmas at Disneyland® Paris with our Staycity Aparthotels near Disneyland® Paris. With its apartments and villas, our aparthotel is the ideal choice for enjoying a visit to Disneyland® Paris with your family. The bonus? We're just a 10-minute drive from the magic and we also offer a free shuttle to/from the Disney® Parks.  

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6 – shows and musicals

Picture this... December in Paris, you've just spent the day picking up the last few presents, wandering through the city's illuminated streets and indulging in the Christmas market... What would you say about ending the evening beautifully with a show?

Whether you're staying in Paris with your significant other, your family or your friends, the French capital is full of options.

Catch a cabaret show at the famous Moulin Rouge or the Crazy Horse, a concert at L'Olympia, a show at Le Grand Rex or an opera at the Opéra Garnier.

Add a sprinkle of magic to your evening in Paris with a special Candlelight show. The most beautiful historic monuments in Paris open their doors to offer a splendid and intimate experience. Bask in the delightful candlelight while a string quartet renders the melodies of contemporary music legends, genius film composers or classical maestros. Head to the majestic Eiffel Tower, the Maison de l’Océan or Institut National Des Jeunes Aveugles for a magical and unique experience.

For the festive season, the Château de Versailles has put together an incredible show that will delight young and old alike. Discover "Le Parcours du Roi" (the King's Tour), an extraordinary tour-show featuring singers, musicians, actors and fencers that will take you all over the Château. Your visit will end in the Galerie des Batailles, where you'll meet a very special guest... the Baroque Santa Claus!

For the third season, the Théâtre Mogador welcomes you to its magnificent theatre to (re)discover the legendary Broadway show: The Lion King. With its dazzling colours and costumes, breathtaking effects and rousing music, this classic show is sure to delight the whole family!

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This winter, enjoy the magic of Paris at Christmas. Treat your family, your other half (or yourself!) to an unforgettable stay in one of our Paris aparthotels. Book your stay now!

 

 

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