The Christmas season in Paris is magical, transforming the city into a fairytale. Enjoy New Year's cruises on the Seine, Christmas markets on the Champs-Élysées and in La Défense, and festive menus in Parisian restaurants.
Plan your vacation to discover the best activities in and around Paris during Christmas 2024.
Don't miss our New Year's Eve cruises on the Seine, where the shimmering waters reflect the starry skies and fireworks. These evenings on the water offer an unforgettable experience, combining gourmet dining and breathtaking views of Parisian monuments. New Year's Eve shows and parties in the capital are also not to be missed, offering entertainment and sparkle to welcome in the New Year.
Paris is famous for its New Year's Eve parties, and there's something for everyone. For an elegant evening, book a cruise on the Seine with dinner and show. Admire the illuminated monuments while enjoying a gourmet meal. The city's clubs and discos also offer special New Year's Eve parties, with renowned DJs and entertainment until the early hours. For a more traditional evening, attend a classical music concert in one of Paris' historic churches.
The Christmas season in Paris is also marked by a rich program of shows and events. Ballet fans will be delighted, while fans of musicals can enjoy special performances in Parisian theaters. The city's churches offer Christmas concerts with choirs and orchestras, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.
Christmas markets are a long-standing tradition in Paris. Among the most famous is the Champs-Élysées Christmas market, featuring wooden chalets selling handicrafts, Christmas decorations and culinary specialties. The Christmas market at La Défense is also very popular, with its many stalls and festive atmosphere. For a more intimate experience, head to the Montmartre Christmas market, where you can sample hot chestnuts and mulled wine while enjoying a breathtaking view of Paris.
Disneyland Paris is the ideal place for a family outing during the Christmas season. The park is decked out in its finest decorations and offers shows and parades specially designed for the festive season. Children can meet their favorite Disney characters, watch the Christmas parade and enjoy the illuminated attractions. Don't miss the “Disney Illuminations” night show, which ends with a magnificent fireworks display.
In addition to Disneyland Paris, Paris offers a wide range of activities for children during the Christmas season. The Jardin des Tuileries hosts a large funfair with rides, games and food stalls. For an educational experience, visit the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, which hosts Christmas-themed workshops and interactive exhibitions.
Paris is renowned for its gastronomy, and the Christmas season is no exception. Many restaurants offer special holiday menus, featuring traditional dishes such as foie gras, oysters and the Yule log. For a unique experience, book a table in a Michelin-starred restaurant or take part in a cooking workshop to learn how to prepare festive dishes. Those with a sweet tooth won't want to miss a visit to a Parisian patisserie for macaroons, chocolates and other delicacies.
If you'd like to explore the area around Paris during your vacation, there are plenty of excursions available during the Christmas season. The city of Versailles, with its famous château, offers guided tours and light shows. The Champagne region, just a few hours from Paris, is ideal for a gourmet getaway with champagne tastings and cellar tours.
Whether you're looking for activities for the kids, festive evenings or gastronomic discoveries, Paris and its surroundings offer a multitude of options for celebrating Christmas 2024. Plan your vacation now to enjoy the magic of the festive season in the City of Light.
