Christmas 2023 in Paris: what to do, practical info and tips

The enchantment of Paris becomes even more intense at Christmas. At this time of year, the city shines brightly, the streets, bridges and squares are filled with a wonderful atmosphere, with colourful markets and stalls and street performers singing Christmas carols.
This year treat yourself to a precious memory, treat yourself to a Christmas in Paris! Here's what to do and all the info you need to organise your holiday.

1 - Visit the Christmas markets

In addition to the wonderful 'conventional attractions', in December Paris fills up with Christmas-related places to discover!
These include some of the most characteristic markets where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, sweets of all kinds and much more. The largest Christmas market in Paris is in La Défense, with over 300 craft and food stalls spread over 10,000 square metres. 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.

Parisian Christmas markets tend to start as early as the end of November (some as late as 14 November), and remain open for the entire month of December (sometimes until 5/6 January).

2 - Stroll along the Champs-Elysées

Photo by w:en:User:Agateller. One of the best places to soak up 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 shop windows, then finish your stroll 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 everything from delicacies to souvenirs, from toys for children to goodies for adults.

3 - Christmas for kids at Disneyland

If you have children in tow and want to give them the Christmas of their dreams, needless to say, the choice is Disneyland Paris! For Christmas Eve, the park puts on spectacular entertainment, tastings and shows for all tastes and ages! TheDisney atmosphere is certainly magical, the decorations and costumes are incredible!
Be careful though, because finding a room in one of the themed hotels within the Resort is quite difficult, so ... think ahead and always keep an eye on the prices.

Usually the Disneyland park is Christmas-themed from the first ten days of November until January, with a winter landscape and atmosphere to take your breath away! Children can visit the Disney Christmas Village and Santa's workshop and, of course, have fun with their favourite characters!
For the occasion, we recommend purchasing a 1-day Fast Pass ticket to avoid the huge queues at the attractions.

4 - Seine Dinner Cruise

A very romantic alternative is to cruise on the Seine on board the famous Bateaux Mouches: depending on the company, you can choose a simple half-hour tour or the option with a Christmas lunch or dinner, with live music and a mouth-watering menu.
For this formula, you should consider spending between €150.00 and €200.00 per person.

5 - Dinner + show at the Moulin Rouge

Photo by Nasreddine Nas'h. Another alternative is to spend Christmas by treating yourself to a show at the Moulin Rouge, perhaps with dinner attached. Sure, the prices aren't exactly cheap, but hell... you only live once! You can watch one of the world's most famous shows while enjoying a delicious menu of traditional French recipes, and there are even options for vegetarians and vegans. It may sound obvious but... better to point out: elegant attire is required for the occasion! You are not going to show up in jeans....

6 - Shopping at the Galeries Lafayette

On its own, the Galeries Lafayette is a fantastic place to see in Paris, but at Christmas time it becomes even more atmospheric thanks to the beautiful decorations and the big Christmas tree that make the atmosphere comparable to that of New York's Rockefeller Center.

It is probably the most illuminated place in all of Paris, a light show like no other! Just think that every year, more than 10 million people visit the Galeries Lafayette windows: true works of art, with the concept of the layout beginning a year earlier and involving artisans, 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 shopping!

7 - Attend Christmas masses

Photo by Hteink.min. Christmas Eve Mass is a special part of the Christmas festivities in Paris. For many visitors, it is an unforgettable experience. Among the largest and most famous churches in which to attend the celebrations are the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris, the Church of the Madeleine, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Church of Saint Sulpice, and the Church of Saint Eustache. At Christmas Eve celebrations, you can listen to the best sacred music and choirs from the whole of France.

8 - Taste the Christmas specialities

Christmas Eve dinner usually includes specialities such as'boeuf bourguignon' (stewed beef cooked in red wine),'foie gras' (duck liver) and also roast turkey with chestnuts, roast goose, oysters, lobster, game and cheese. The typical Christmas dessert is the Bûche de Noël, known in Italy as Tronchetto di Natale, and is a kind of rolled sponge cake in the shape of a log covered in chocolate or coffee cream and icing and usually filled with jam.

Which museums and attractions remain open?

Almost all museums and attractions in the city remain closed on 25 December, but can be visited regularly on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. However, there are some attractions that remain open on Christmas Day, including the Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles or the Centre Pompidou.

What means of transport are available?

On all public holidays, including Christmas Day, Parisian public transport runs less frequently. For more information, we recommend reading the article on getting around Paris and checking the official websites for any changes.

• Suggested solutions: The best way to get around is by metro; a single ride costs €1.80, a carnet of 10 tickets costs around €14.00

• Useful passes and cards: To save money on transport we recommend the purchase of the Paris Passlib card which includes all city transport, including boats on the Seine.

Climate in Paris at Christmas

Paris has a continental climate, with frequent rainfall throughout the year and especially in winter, when it can also take on a snowy character. December tends to be rainy and average temperatures range from a minimum of 3°C to a maximum of 8°C.

Paris Christmas Offers: Flight + 4 nights in a Hotel

• Cheap flights: Return flight from Rome from €48.00 per person.

• Where to stay: 4 nights in a double room from €299.00.

• Flight+ hotel: A/R flight + 4 nights/5 days from €396,00 per person.