Experience the excitement of Christmas in Paris

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 magic of Paris at Christmas time. Between the Christmas decorations and twinkling Christmas lights, the sweet smells of food like waffles and hot chocolate, or the 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 holiday season in Paris.

From the markets and the lights to a magical escape to Disneyland® Paris, here's everything worth a visit this festive season — pick up unique gifts, sip mulled wine, or simply soak up the holiday spirit. Whether it's a romantic weekend, a trip with friends or a family treat, our Paris aparthotels are the ideal home from home in the heart of the action.

Stay central at Gare de l'Est, discover the buzzing business district at La Défense, or head to Marne-la-Vallée for the magic of Disneyland® Paris.

Many visitors flock from all over the world to visit Paris in winter. From late November right through December, there's so much to see and do, but don't worry, we've compiled the essentials for a wonderful Christmas in Paris.

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, open daily right up until Christmas Day, 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 all of the Paris arrondissements. With activities for all the family, workshops, gourmet chalets and festive lights, 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 of the best stalls with 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 DIY 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.

Markets at a glance (2026 to be confirmed):

• Paris La Défense Christmas Market - 13 November to 28 December 2026
• Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market - 16 November to 5 January 2027
• Marché de Noël Alsacien at la Gare de l'Est - 29 November to 15 December 2026
• Notre-Dame Christmas Market - 28 November to 25 December 2026

Dates firm up nearer the time, so it's worth a quick look at each market's site before you head out: Notre-Dame, La Défense, Klin d'Œil.

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 along the world-famous avenue of 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 with the lights switched on throughout December.

The nicest way to take it all in, is on foot after dark. Start at Place de la Concorde and stroll the length of the Champs-Élysées as the arches light up, then loop round to Place Vendôme for the quieter, more elegant end of the show. Wrap up warm and you've got a free, magical evening on your hands.

Discover the Magical Department Stores' Windows

As eagerly awaited as the markets themselves, the department store window displays are a real institution at this time of year. Animated figures, festive scenes and sparkling lights turn Parisian institutions like Printemps Haussmann, Le Bon Marché and Galeries Lafayette into a spectacle.

Step inside and the whole store is decked out too, immersing everyone in the magic of a Parisian Christmas. Go in the morning if you can, the Haussmann windows draw big crowds by afternoon, so an early visit means you'll actually get a good look before the pavements fill up.

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! With the big date approaching, there's no better place to tick off your list before Christmas Day.

Paris is undoubtedly the holiday 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 Lafayette, 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 holiday shopping and finding inspiration.

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 8 November 2026 to 6 January 2027 (to be confirmed), 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.

Disneyland® Paris is a magical place whether you're bringing the kids or visiting the park without the crew.

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.

Shows and Musicals

Picture this... December in Paris, you've just spent the day picking up the last few gifts, 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!

A Greener Kind of Christmas

If you’re looking to sprinkle a little sustainability into your holiday city break, Paris makes it easy. Swap fast-fashion finds for thoughtful gifts from independent concept stores, artisan Christmas markets and zéro déchet (zero-waste) boutiques dotted across the city. Think handmade ceramics, locally crafted jewellery, natural wines and gourmet treats sourced from regional producers - presents with a story to tell. You could also explore Paris by foot or bike to soak up the lights the low-impact way, or warm up with a hot chocolate in a café that champions organic, seasonal ingredients. Because in a city that does indulgence so well, it’s nice to know you can tread a little lighter while you’re at it.

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!