Christmas and New Year in Paris offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences, whether you’re an art lover, a gourmet, or simply looking for a magical atmosphere in which to celebrate the festive season.
Christmas and New year in Paris : the Christmas markets
The first experience is that of Christmas markets. There are many of them, some larger than others, but all with the same warm atmosphere.
Christmas markets in Paris are festive events that embody the spirit of Christmas and bring a warm, magical atmosphere to the city. They are characterized by small, traditional wooden chalets where craftsmen, traders and designers offer a variety of products: handcrafted gifts, gastronomy: cheeses, foie gras, charcuterie, regional wines, confectionery and the famous “Bûche de Noël” (Yule log), as well as local french produces or international culinary specialities.
A rendezvous for all
Christmas markets are places where Parisians and tourists come together to share a convivial moment, do their Christmas shopping, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
These markets are generally open from late November to early January, with a peak of activity in December. They embody the spirit of Christmas in one of the world’s most romantic cities.
Tips:
- Weather: Dress warmly as temperatures are chilly. Click on “8-Day Live Weather Forecast for Paris“
- Reservations: Book activities and dining early as Christmas is a busy season in Paris (See our affiliation links throughout our post).
- Transportation: Public transit operates but may have reduced hours on Christmas Eve and Day.
For updated details, check official websites or the Paris tourist office closer to your visit.
Christmas and New year in Paris : a lot of things to see and do during the end-of-year period
We’ve listed over 110 things to do or see (with addresses and other information) over the Christmas and New Year period. This list is not exhaustive, but includes the majority of what can be found in Paris at the end of the year. To make your choice easier, we’ve divided them into 19 thematic sections. This may also help you to broaden the range of possibilities at a glance:
1 . Visit the Christmas markets
2. Discover the Christmas illuminations
3. Ice skating in Paris
4. Attend Special Events and Shows
5. Enjoy Seasonal Cuisine
6. Dining at Christmas or New Year in a gastronomique restaurant
7. Visit Iconic Attractions
8. Midnight Masses in Paris
9. Christmas Nativity scenes
10. Christmas concerts in churches
11. Explore lively neighborhoods
12. See a cabaret show or revue
13. Christmas shopping
14. Self-guided walks in Paris
15. Ride the Ferris Wheel on Place de la Concorde
16. Explore winter exhibitions and museums
17. Enjoy the Seine River
18. Walks in parks or gardens in Paris
19. Take a Day Trip out of Paris