Create unforgettable memories this Christmas with a festive getaway to the Christmas markets in Paris.
During the festive season, Christmas markets spring up throughout the streets of Paris and the city basks in the warm glow of twinkling Christmas lights. Blending traditional charm with Parisian elegance, the Paris Christmas market experience beautifully captures the magic of the season.
Discover the best of Paris at Christmas
Feel the festive magic at these French Christmas markets
Paris is romantic year-round, but it really outdoes itself at Christmas. For an authentic Parisian Christmas experience, spend a few magical hours wandering the city’s traditional Christmas markets. Search for the perfect festive gifts amongst stalls selling handcrafted items and local delicacies. Warm up with a steaming mug of vin chaud (mulled wine) and a gingerbread biscuit. Take in the Paris skyline, illuminated by thousands of sparkling fairy lights, as Christmas carols drift through the air.
Top districts of Paris to visit at Christmas
If you’re wondering which is the best district to stay in Paris at Christmas, it depends on the vibe you’re looking for. At Christmas, each of these iconic Paris districts offers its own unique atmosphere. Plus, plenty of festive attractions and unforgettable experiences.
Champs-Élysées
Boutique shopping
16 November to 5 January
Renowned as one of the most beautiful avenues in the world, the Champs-Élysées is home to some of Paris’ most luxurious shops, restaurants and hotels. At Christmas, the iconic avenue hosts a bustling Christmas market and is lit up with breathtaking illuminations.
Montmartre
Picturesque cobbled streets
Late November to early January
Located in Northern Paris, Montmartre is known for its alternative, artistic vibe. At Christmas, its quaint cobbled streets glow with cosy twinkling lights. Stop and browse handcrafted gifts and savour a hot crêpe as you make your way up to the magnificent Sacré Coeur, where panoramic views of Paris await.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
History and heritage
Late November to early January
To the left of the river Seine, you’ll find the historic district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Browse bookstores, antique shops and museums before people-watching in one of the district’s legendary coffeehouses. This postcard-perfect, authentic Parisian neighbourhood also hosts a popular upscale Christmas market.
La Défense
Markets amidst skyscrapers
14 November to 29 December
Hidden away in Paris’ business district, you’ll find the city’s largest Christmas market, La Défense Village de Noël. Nestled among a sea of skyscrapers, the Village de Noël hosts almost 200 market chalets, a food court, festive Christmas scenes, holiday music, and entertainment for the whole family.
Notre Dame
Sightseeing
29 November to 25 December
Sip a vin chaud and enjoy seasonal entertainment at the Marché de Noel Notre Dame with the iconic cathedral as your backdrop. This December, the lively Notre Dame district will be buzzing with excitement as the cathedral reopens its doors to visitors for the first time since the fire in 2019.
Insider tips for visiting Paris’ Christmas markets:
Visit Weekdays: Avoid weekend crowds by visiting during weekdays
Timing Matters: Visit in the evening for a magical, illuminated experience
Carry cash: Smaller vendors may not accept cards
6 of the best Christmas markets in Paris
Enjoy these top Parisian Christmas markets
Searching for Christmas events and things to do in Paris at Christmas? These six markets are some of our favourites, and always worth a look.
Tuileries Garden Market
Largest in Paris
16 November to 1 January
After a day of culture at the Louvre, let your hair down at nearby La Magie de Noel, the largest Christmas fair in Paris. Go ice skating, indulge at the champagne bar, or enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city dressed in Christmas lights from the top of the Ferris wheel.
Gare de l’Est Market
Oldest Alsatian market outside Alsace
29 November to 15 December
The Gare de l’Est Market is the oldest Alsatian market outside of the Alsace region and a foodie’s paradise. Stalls here sell mouth-watering Alsatian favourites, including bredele, brioche, and pretzels.
Cultural fact file:
Many Parisians indulge in champagne and oysters at Christmas
Réveillon de Noël is a festive feast enjoyed by Parisians on 24 December
Many families in Paris attend Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve
Place des Abbesses Market
Artisanal goods
Late November to end of December
As you climb the winding hills of Montmartre towards the Sacré Coeur, stop to enjoy sweeping views of the city at the Place des Abbesses Market. Browse stalls selling artisanal goods and fuel up on Parisian delicacies.
Hotel de Ville Market
Traditional Christmas market
Late November to early January
At Christmas, the extravagant neo-renaissance Hotel de Ville is illuminated with a spectacular light show and surrounded by real fir trees. Here, you’ll find a traditional market selling festive favourites, including roasted chestnuts and handcrafted ornaments.
Eiffel Tower Christmas Market
At the foot of the Eiffel Tower
Early December to early January
Create unforgettable memories when you grab a bite to eat at the Christmas markets along Quai Branly at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. For the ultimate romantic experience, visit after dark to sip mulled wine beneath the illuminated tower.
Budgeting for the Paris Christmas markets
Don’t get caught short of cash in Paris
We’ve created a quick guide to average prices at the Paris Christmas markets to help you set a realistic budget for your festive getaway:
Mug of vin chaud (mulled wine) – €4-6
Filled crêpe – €4-6
200g portion of French cheese – €5-8
Small box of artisan chocolates – €15-30
Handcrafted Christmas ornament – €7-15
What a city Paris is at Christmas. There really is no better place to experience Christmas markets than the most romantic city in the world. Use this guide to get the most out of your visit, and start dreaming of a festive getaway in the City of Light.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that sometimes opening times and dates of Christmas Markets may change locally after we have published our article.
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