Christmas 2024 in Paris: What to Do, Practical Info And Advice

As the snowflakes begin to fall and the twinkling lights start to shine, Paris transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting visitors from around the world to experience the magic of Christmas. From festive markets to spectacular shows, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in this City of Light.

Getting Ready for Christmas in Paris

Before you embark on your festive adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead. Flights and hotels can get quite busy during peak season, so book your accommodations early to avoid disappointment.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

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• Book your flights at least 2 months in advance
• Research and reserve a hotel room that suits your budget and preferences
• Consider purchasing an all-inclusive package that includes flights, hotels, and activities

Experiences and Tours to Book in Advance

While exploring Christmas markets is always a great idea, there are other experiences you might want to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Here are some popular options:

• Christmas Markets Tour: Take a guided tour of Paris’s most famous Christmas markets, such as La Défense or Notre Dame Market.
• Disneyland Paris Christmas Package: Spend the holiday season at Disneyland Paris with a special package that includes accommodations, park tickets, and exclusive events.
• Seine River Cruise with Christmas Dinner: Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine while taking in the city’s festive atmosphere.

What to Do: Events, Activities, and Markets

Christmas is a time for celebration, and Paris offers an array of events and activities to enjoy. Here are some highlights:

• Visit Christmas Markets: Explore one of Paris’s many Christmas markets, such as La Défense or Notre Dame Market, where you can find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
• Walk along the Champs-Elysées: Stroll through this iconic avenue during the holiday season and take in the stunning lights and decorations.
• Christmas for Kids at Disneyland: Give your little ones a magical Christmas experience at Disneyland Paris with special events, shows, and activities.

1. Visit Christmas Markets

Paris’s Christmas markets are a must-visit during the holiday season. Here are some of the most characteristic ones:

You can visit these markets with a guided tour or on your own.

2. Walk along the Champs-Elysées

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One of the best places to feel the festive atmosphere in Paris is the Champs-Elysées, the heart of the city. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

• Stroll through the Avenue: Take a leisurely walk along the avenue and enjoy the stunning lights and decorations.
• Visit the Arc de Triomphe: End your stroll at the top of the Arc de Triomphe for breathtaking views of the city.

3. Christmas for Kids at Disneyland

If you have kids in tow, Disneyland Paris is the perfect place to give them a magical Christmas experience. Here’s what you need to know:

• Disneyland Paris Christmas Package: Spend the holiday season at Disneyland Paris with a special package that includes accommodations, park tickets, and exclusive events.
• Special Events and Shows: Enjoy spectacular entertainment, tastings, and shows for all ages.

4. Cruise with Dinner on the Seine

A romantic cruise on the Seine is a perfect way to spend Christmas Eve in Paris. Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Seine River Cruise with Christmas Dinner: Book a dinner cruise on Bateaux Mouches and enjoy a special menu while taking in the city’s festive atmosphere.

5. Dinner and Show at the Moulin Rouge

Experience the magic of the Moulin Rouge during the holiday season with a show and dinner package. Here’s what you need to know:

• Show at the Moulin Rouge: Enjoy traditional French cuisine on stage, as well as options for vegetarians and vegans.
• Formal Attire Required: Don your finest attire for this unforgettable experience.

6. Shopping at Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is a must-visit during Christmas in Paris due to its stunning decorations and massive Christmas tree. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:

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• Gourmet Areas: Take a break while shopping and enjoy gourmet areas with delicious treats.
• Massive Christmas Tree: Be amazed by the impressive Christmas tree that creates an atmosphere similar to New York City’s Rockefeller Center.

7. Ice Skating at the Eiffel Tower

Ice skating under the stars is a magical experience in Paris during the holiday season. Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Eiffel Tower Ice Rink: Book tickets for ice skating sessions at the Eiffel Tower.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city while gliding across the ice.

8. Christmas Markets at Montmartre

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood in Paris that offers a unique holiday experience during Christmas. Here’s what you need to know:

• Christmas Market: Visit the Christmas market at Montmartre and find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
• Breathtaking Views: Take in the stunning views of the city while strolling through this charming neighborhood.

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9. Seine River Cruise

A cruise on the Seine is a perfect way to explore Paris during Christmas. Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Seine River Cruise: Book a dinner cruise or a regular tour and enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere.
• Stunning Views: Take in breathtaking views of the city while cruising along the Seine.

10. Visit the Sainte-Chapelle

The Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning Gothic chapel that offers an unforgettable holiday experience during Christmas. Here’s what you need to know:

• Gothic Architecture: Be amazed by the stunning architecture and breathtaking stained-glass windows.
• Special Events: Enjoy special events and concerts during the holiday season.

11. Ice Skating at the Champs-Elysées

Ice skating under the stars is a magical experience in Paris during Christmas. Here’s how you can make it happen:

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• Champs-Elysées Ice Rink: Book tickets for ice skating sessions at the Champs-Elysées.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city while gliding across the ice.

12. Visit the Disneyland Paris Winter Village

Disneyland Paris is a perfect place to spend Christmas with family and friends. Here’s what you need to know:

• Winter Village: Book tickets for this festive event that includes shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Special Events: Enjoy special events and shows during the holiday season.

13. Seine River Dinner Cruise

A dinner cruise on the Seine is a perfect way to spend Christmas Eve in Paris. Here’s how you can make it happen:

• Dinner Cruise: Book a dinner cruise with Bateaux Mouches and enjoy a special menu while taking in the city’s festive atmosphere.
• Stunning Views: Take in breathtaking views of the city while cruising along the Seine.

14. Visit the Montmartre Christmas Market

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood in Paris that offers a unique holiday experience during Christmas. Here’s what you need to know:

• Christmas Market: Visit the Christmas market at Montmartre and find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
• Breathtaking Views: Take in the stunning views of the city while strolling through this charming neighborhood.

15. Shopping at Le Bon Marché

Le Bon Marché is a luxurious department store that offers a magical holiday shopping experience during Christmas. Here’s what you need to know:

• Luxurious Products: Find unique and high-quality products, including fashion items and gourmet treats.
• Breathtaking Decorations: Be amazed by the stunning decorations and breathtaking views of the city.

Conclusion

Christmas in Paris is an unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for festive markets, spectacular shows, or romantic cruises, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in this City of Light. So pack your bags, grab some festive cheer, and get ready to experience the magic of Christmas in Paris!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best way to book flights to Paris for Christmas?
   Book your flights at least 2 months in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Where can I find Christmas markets in Paris?
   Christmas markets can be found throughout Paris, including La Défense, Notre Dame Market, Saint-Germain-de-Prés Market, Montmartre Market, Gare de l’Est Market, and Champs de Mars Market.

3. What is the best way to spend Christmas Eve in Paris?
   Consider booking a dinner cruise or a romantic evening stroll along the Seine for an unforgettable experience.

4. Where can I find festive shopping areas in Paris during Christmas?
   Popular shopping areas include Galeries Lafayette, Le Bon Marché, and Montmartre Market.

5. What is the best way to enjoy ice skating in Paris during Christmas?
   Book tickets for ice skating sessions at the Eiffel Tower or Champs-Elysées Ice Rink for a magical experience under the stars.

6. How can I book a Seine River Cruise with Christmas Dinner?
   Book a dinner cruise on Bateaux Mouches and enjoy a special menu while taking in the city’s festive atmosphere.

7. What is the best way to spend Christmas Day in Paris?
   Consider spending the day at Disneyland Paris or Montmartre Market, or visiting one of the many museums and galleries in Paris.

8. Where can I find Santa Claus in Paris during Christmas?
   Santa Claus can be found at Disneyland Paris, Galeries Lafayette, and other festive locations throughout Paris.

9. What is the best way to book a Disney-themed dinner cruise?
   Book a dinner cruise on Bateaux Mouches and enjoy a special menu while taking in the city’s festive atmosphere.

10. How can I purchase Christmas tickets for Disneyland Paris?
    Book your tickets online or at the park entrance, depending on availability.

By following these tips and booking ahead, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable holiday experience in Paris during Christmas. Don’t forget to pack your festive cheer and enjoy every moment of this magical time of year!