The enchantment of Paris becomes even more intense during Christmas. At this time of year, the city shines with intense light, among the streets, bridges and squares, you can breathe a wonderful atmosphere, with colorful markets and stalls and street artists who sing Christmas songs. Here are the five things you absolutely must do at Christmas if you visit Paris!
Christmas 2021 in Paris: what to do, practical info and tips
1 – Christmas markets
In addition to the wonderful “conventional attractions”, during the month of December Paris is filled with Christmas-related places to discover!
Among these, we would like to point out some of the most characteristic markets where you can purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, sweets of all kinds and much more. The largest Christmas market in Paris is located in La Défense, with over 300 craft and food stalls spread over 10,000 square meters. There is also the “Starry Christmas” market at Place Joachim-du-Bellay in Les Halles, and markets in the Tuileries Gardens, Square René Viviani near Notre Dame Cathedral and the Champs de Mars.
2 – Walk along the Champs-Elysées
One of the best places to breathe in the Parisian Christmas atmosphere is the Champs-Elysées, the beating heart of the city. The streets and squares teem with so many people that you’ll be nice and warm! Let yourself be dazzled by the lights and glittering store windows, and finally end your walk at the top of the Arc de Triomphe to admire one of the most beautiful streets in the world at its most beautiful.
The entire immense avenue is a succession of small wooden chalets with the Christmas market, with the classic stalls selling all sorts of products, from delicacies to souvenirs, from games for children to goodies for adults.
3 – Visit Disneyland at Christmas
If you have children in tow and want to give them the Christmas of dreams, needless to say that the choice is Disneyland Paris! For Christmas Eve, the park sets up spectacular entertainment, tastings and shows for all tastes and all ages! The Disney atmosphere is definitely magical, the decorations and costumes are incredible!
Be careful, though, because finding a room in one of the themed hotels inside the Resort is quite difficult, so… think about it in time and always keep an eye on prices.
Usually the Disneyland park is organized with a Christmas theme from the first ten days of November until January, with a winter landscape and an atmosphere to take your breath away! Children will be able to visit the Christmas Disney Village and Santa’s workshop, as well as, of course, having fun with their favorite characters!
4 – Dinner and show at the Moulin Rouge
Another alternative is to spend Christmas treating yourself to a show at the Moulin Rouge, perhaps with dinner attached. Of course, the prices are not exactly cheap, but boy … you only live once! You can watch one of the most famous shows in the world while enjoying a delicious menu based on traditional French recipes, and there are also options for vegetarians and vegans. It may seem obvious, but… best to point out: elegant attire is required for the occasion! You’re not going to show up in jeans….
5 – Shopping at the Galeries Lafayette
On its own, the Galeries Lafayette is a fantastic place to visit in Paris, but during the Christmas season it becomes even more impressive thanks to the beautiful decorations and the large Christmas tree that make the atmosphere comparable to that of Rockefeller Center in New York.
This is probably the most illuminated place in all of Paris, a light show without equal! Just think that every year more than 10 million people visit the windows of Galeries Lafayette: true works of art, with the concept of preparation that begins a year before and involves craftsmen, designers, carpenters, even puppeteers! And for the occasion, on the 7 floors of the mall you will find gourmet corners to delight your palate between purchases!
And you certainly can’t miss visiting the Eiffel Tower at Christmas!
The illuminated Eiffel Tower, during the holiday season, fits perfectly into a Paris that is elegantly decorated with fireflies, starbursts, garlands, colorful trees and any shape that can bring an air of festivity. Together with the tower, therefore, in December, are illuminated streets, squares, avenues such as the Champs Elysées and their 2 and a half kilometers of wonderful lights that accompany us from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde.
