There’s something about Paris in winter that feels truly enchanting. From the soft glow of twinkling lights to the scent of roasted chestnuts and the cheerful buzz of holiday markets, the City of Light shines with a special kind of warmth during the festive season. This year, Paris promises an especially dazzling holiday lineup, filled with concerts, festive Christmas markets, enchanting window displays and unforgettable dining.

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family celebration or a cozy getaway with friends, winter is the perfect time to experience a more intimate and sparkling side of Paris. We’ve created this guide to help you plan a holiday stay in Paris and enjoy every moment of the season.

Paris Christmas Markets

This year there will be festive markets scattered across the city, each one offering its own charm along with handcrafted gifts, regional delicacies and warming cups of vin chaud.

• La Défense Christmas Village – November 13 to December 28, 2025
  We love visiting this market for its impressive size and festive energy. With more than 150 chalets set beneath the modern skyline of La Défense, it’s the largest in Paris and perfect for finding regional specialties and handmade gifts.

• Tuileries Garden Christmas Market – November 14, 2025 to January 4, 2026)
  This market truly lives up to its name, La Magie de Noël (The Magic of Christmas). Located beside the Louvre, it’s one of our favorite spots to spend an afternoon surrounded by holiday treats, rides and often even a small ice rink. The aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and the views of the gardens and museum lights at dusk make it pure Parisian magic.

• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market – November 25, 2025 to January 1, 2026
  Small but full of charm, this market feels like stepping into a Paris postcard. Nestled among elegant boutiques and cafés, it’s the perfect stop for anyone staying on the Left Bank. We love to browse the stalls, then warm up with coffee or chocolat chaud at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots nearby.

• Notre-Dame Christmas Market – November 28 to December 25, 2025
  Set in the charming Square René Viviani just across from Notre-Dame, this market focuses on French craftsmanship, regional delicacies and festive entertainment. The setting—with views of the cathedral and the Seine—makes it one of the most picturesque holiday markets in the city.

• Eiffel Tower Christmas Market – Dates to be confirmed
  Set along the Quai Jacques Chirac, this one is especially close to our hearts since it’s just moments from many of our Paris Perfect apartments in the 7th arrondissement. The combination of twinkling market lights, live music and the Eiffel Tower glittering above the Seine is nothing short of unforgettable. It’s a must-see if you’re staying nearby.

The Galeries Lafayette Christmas tree and window decorations are unique every year. Plan your holiday stay now to see this year’s display!

Holiday Lights & Window Displays

Each November, the city’s grand boulevards and department stores unveil their holiday displays, transforming Paris into a world of twinkling lights and enchanting windows. While the official unveiling dates and times have not yet been confirmed for 2025, the celebrations traditionally begin in early November and continue through the end of December. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of magic to your holiday shopping!

• Galeries Lafayette Haussmann – 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009
  Expected dates: mid-November to December 31, 2025
  Always the showstopper of the season, Galeries Lafayette unveils its breathtaking Christmas tree beneath the famous glass dome, surrounded by lights and festive performances. The windows outside bring that same sense of wonder to life with playful animations and enchanting scenes that delight visitors of all ages.

• Printemps Haussmann – 64 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009
  Expected unveiling: early November 2025 (around 5:00 PM); on view through December 31, 2025
  A visit to Printemps is a must each holiday season. The store’s windows are known for their imaginative storytelling, filled with color, music and whimsical Parisian charm. The grand unveiling in early November is always a joyful event that draws both locals and visitors eager to see the year’s theme come to life.

• Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche – 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007
  Expected unveiling: early November 2025 (around 6:30 PM); on view through December 31, 2025
  Over on the Left Bank, Le Bon Marché is a favorite for its refined elegance and creative flair. The store’s Christmas windows often blend art and craftsmanship to create something uniquely Parisian. We love to visit in the evening, when the lights from the windows reflect off Rue de Sèvres, creating a warm glow.

• La Samaritaine – 19 Rue de la Monnaie, 75001
  Expected dates: early November to December 31, 2025
  Just steps from Pont Neuf, La Samaritaine’s windows are always a feast for the eyes. Expect imaginative displays filled with color and modern artistry, along with interior decorations that make shopping or simply wandering through the store a holiday experience in itself.

• BHV Marais – 52 Rue de Rivoli, 75004
  Expected unveiling: early November 2025 (around 5:00 PM); on view through December 31, 2025
  BHV Marais is the first to officially launch the season, kicking things off in early November with a festive street event and its sparkling façade lighting up Rue de Rivoli. The atmosphere feels truly local and full of cheer. It’s perfect for enjoying an early glimpse of the city’s holiday magic before the crowds arrive.

 

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Ice Skating in Iconic Paris Locations

Lace up your skates and join in one of Paris’s favorite winter traditions. Whether gliding beneath the Grand Palais dome or skating under the lights at a holiday market, each rink offers its own touch of Parisian magic.

• Grand Palais des Glaces – December 14, 2025 – January 8, 2026
  Skate beneath the spectacular glass dome of the Grand Palais, one of the world’s largest indoor ice rinks. By day, it’s bathed in natural light; by night, it transforms into a glittering scene with music, lights and a lively DJ atmosphere. It’s an unforgettable Paris winter tradition.

• Tuileries Garden Rink – Dates to be announced
  As of now, the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market is listed as including an ice-skating rink as part of its La Magie de Noël festivities. However the rink’s exact dates and hours haven’t yet been fully confirmed. We recommend checking closer to your travel date for the latest update.

• La Défense Ice Rink – November 13 to December 28, 2025
  A fun part of the Marché de Noël de La Défense, the spacious ice rink is at the foot of the Grande Arche and is surrounded by the modern skyline and one of the largest Christmas markets in Paris. It’s ideal for combining a little holiday shopping with a few laps on the ice under the city’s sparkling lights.

• Parc André Citroën – Dates to be announced
  Located in one of Paris’s most scenic parks, this outdoor rink offers real ice and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Skate beneath the open sky, then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from nearby stalls. Often with an extended season, it’s a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Enjoy a Christmas concert surrounded by the stained glass at Sainte-Chapelle.

Concerts & New Year’s Eve Celebrations

December in Paris is filled with music, from candlelit concerts in historic churches to grand celebrations that light up the night sky. The city’s biggest event unfolds on the Champs-Élysées, where crowds gather for live performances and a dazzling midnight laser show from the Arc de Triomphe – a truly spectacular way to welcome the New Year. Here are a few other dates to mark in your calendar, but be sure to book concerts well in advance!

• Sainte-Chapelle Christmas Concerts – December 29, 30, 31
  Hear classical masterpieces performed beneath stained glass that glows like a jewel box.

• Saint-Séverin Church New Year’s Eve Concert – December 31
  Celebrate the New Year with candlelit music in the heart of the Latin Quarter at this church that is a masterpiece of the Flamboyant Gothic style.

• Eiffel Tower Classical Music Concert – December 24, 35, 31
  An extraordinary way to welcome 2026 with music and a view to match!

Festive Dining Experiences

In Paris, the joy of the season is best shared around the table. Across the city, chefs will be creating festive menus that capture the flavors and traditions of the holidays. Whether you’re looking for a refined Christmas Eve dinner or the perfect spot for a New Year’s celebration, our Restaurant Booking Service is here to help you secure the perfect table. Or let our team curate a personalized itinerary tailored to your Paris stay this holiday season!

Our Top Holiday Restaurants Picks for 2025: 

• Le Train Bleu – 1st Floor, Gare de Lyon, Place Louis Armand, 75012
  Step into the Belle Époque splendor of Le Train Bleu for a Christmas Eve meal that feels fit for royalty. Beneath gilded ceilings and glittering chandeliers, you will enjoy an extraordinary multi-course menu that begins with a mise en bouche and continues with a starter, fish course, trou normand, meat course and a divine dessert. Expect flavors of scallops, caviar and truffled capon in one of the most magnificent dining rooms in Paris. This is an experience you will never forget!

• Madame Brasserie – First Floor, Eiffel Tower
  There is no more extraordinary way to celebrate the holidays than dining inside the Eiffel Tower itself. Madame Brasserie, led by renowned Chef Thierry Marx, offers festive menus for both Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Enjoy exquisite French cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views of the Seine and the Paris rooftops. There are still a few reservation time slots available, but we recommend booking soon since this unforgettable experience fills up quickly every year.

• Moulin Rouge – 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018
  For a celebration that feels truly spectacular, spend Christmas Eve at the legendary Moulin Rouge. Begin your evening with a gourmet dinner created by the cabaret’s head chef, paired with champagne or fine wine. Then, the curtain rises on the iconic Féerie revue, a dazzling show filled with music, dance and glittering costumes that capture the glamour of Paris nightlife. After the show, enjoy a late-night drink at nearby Bar à Bulles or take a romantic stroll.

• Cléo – 19 Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007
  Tucked between Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower, Cléo offers one of the most elegant dining experiences in Paris. Its seven-course Christmas Eve menu is refined and beautifully presented, blending festive ingredients with a touch of modern creativity. The intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for couples looking to celebrate in style, just moments from many of our Paris Perfect vacation rentals.

• Brasserie Thoumieux – 79 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007
  One of the chicest brasseries on the Left Bank, Brasserie Thoumieux combines timeless Parisian charm with a touch of modern flair. Located near the Eiffel Tower, it is a wonderful choice for a festive New Year’s Eve dinner. The menu features luxurious classics such as oysters, truffled foie gras, scallops and beef Rossini, all served in a warm and welcoming dining room with red velvet seating and softly glowing light.

• Bonnie – 10 Rue Agrippa d’Aubigné, 75004
  If you would like to ring in the New Year with a view, Bonnie is a showstopping choice. Located on the rooftop of the SO/ Paris Hotel, this glamorous restaurant offers panoramic views that stretch from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower. The celebratory menu is an artful blend of refined French flavors, featuring beautifully presented dishes that balance playfulness and sophistication. Every plate is designed to delight the senses and make your evening truly memorable.

Want to celebrate in private? Book a Personal Chef Experience in your Paris Perfect vacation rental for the ultimate festive indulgence. It is the perfect experience for couples, families or friends looking to toast the season in comfort.

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Exhibitions Not to Miss

Winter in Paris is made for museum days. When it’s chilly outside, head to one of the city’s galleries and let art take center stage. From Sargent’s luminous portraits to Richter’s meditative abstractions and a century of Art Deco design, this season’s highlights promise creative inspiration.

• Sargent: The Paris Years – At the Musée d’Orsay, this landmark retrospective explores John Singer Sargent’s formative years in Paris, when the artist honed his remarkable ability to capture light, texture and character. A very popular show, so book tickets ahead of time. Now through January 11, 2026.

• Gerhard Richter – At the Fondation Louis Vuitton, this major retrospective brings together paintings, drawings and photographs from across Richter’s extraordinary career. From abstract color fields to haunting portraits, it offers a rare glimpse into the vision of one of the world’s most influential artists. Book tickets in advance. Now through March 2, 2026.

• The Empire of Sleep – Always one our favorite museums, this winter the Musée Marmottan Monet is showing an evocative exhibition exploring how artists from the 19th and 20th centuries interpreted sleep, from romantic dreamscapes to the mysterious world of the subconscious. Now through March 1, 2026.

• Jacques-Louis David – At the Louvre, this sweeping retrospective reexamines the life and work of one of France’s most influential painters, tracing his journey from royal commissions to revolutionary politics and neoclassical mastery. Now through January 26, 2026.

• 1925-2025: One Hundred Years of Art Deco – At the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, this exhibition celebrates a century of Art Deco design starting with its opulent Parisian origins to its lasting influence on global style. Now through March 29, 2026.

Dreamy winter view of the Eiffel Tower from the Bergerac vacation rental.

Where to Stay for the Holidays

Make your Paris holiday unforgettable with a stay in one of our hand-picked Paris Perfect vacation rentals. Each combines our classic mix of comfort, character and location so you can enjoy the holiday season in style.

Château Latour
The spacious Château Latour is a two-bedroom apartment with showstopping Eiffel Tower views from both the living room and bedroom. Its extra-wide balcony is ideal for watching the Tower sparkle at midnight on New Year’s Eve.

Saint Emilion
Directly across from the Eiffel Tower, the elegant Saint Emilion apartment offers two bedrooms, en suite baths and a living area made for gathering over holiday meals.

Bergerac
Three bedrooms, refined Parisian style and unobstructed Eiffel Tower views make Bergerac perfect for celebrating the season. The open-plan layout is ideal for sharing festive dinners.

Volnay
The Volnay is a romantic one-bedroom with delightful Parisian décor and warm, cozy charm. Toast the holidays as you watch sunset over the rooftops and the Eiffel Tower sparkle beyond.

This winter, Paris promises to be more magical than ever. From candlelit concerts to festive markets and unforgettable holiday meals, the city shines with warmth and joy. And with a Paris Perfect vacation rental as your base, you can experience it all from the comfort of your own Parisian home. Book your holiday stay today and let our team help you create your dream Paris vacation. Joyeuses fêtes!

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A beautiful bûche de Noël – a delicious Christmas tradition in France!

You can tell Christmas is coming when the display cases at the grocery store swap out their yogurts and cheeses for the pretty log-style packages of foie gras. This delicacy is so symbolic of the season, and is but one of the traditional offerings at the French Christmas dinner.

French Christmas Dinner

What are some other typical foods that make a special appearance in French homes as the year draws to a close?

Kicking off the Meal

The holiday meal will typically start off with foie gras. This rich and onctuous slice of liver is lovely to pair with toasted brioche. Recently, we’ve seen grilled gingerbread slices (pain d’épices) accompanying this succulent spread, with a side of spicy chutney or preserved sweet onions. Sprinkle some kosher salt on each bite and you’ve got a taste sensation better than any Christmas present. Don’t forget the chilled Sauterne!

The French are also big fans of fish dishes as a first course. Smoked salmon with blinis, tarama spread on a crusty baguette or raw oysters on a bed of ice paired with rye bread are other common openers to this special meal.

The Main Course

Roast turkey or goose, or a special kind of castrated rooster, known as a chapon are traditional main dishes served at Christmas. The French stuffing is not bread-based, as the American one is, but relies on a mixture of gizzards, pork and other meats. Chestnuts are often added, and there is a lot of jus, or sauce, passed around in the gravy boat to add another layer of flavor to the plate.

Boudin blanc, a white sausage often embellished with truffles, is another traditional main dish, served with a side of pureed chestnuts. Side dishes are similar to what we find in the America: green beans, sautéed mushrooms, mashed potatoes or celery root, and of course you’ll always find plenty of fresh baguette on the table to help soak up all the lovely sauces.

Dessert

The bûche de Noël has a starring role at the holiday table, and each year it seems there are more variations of this rich cake to choose from. Long ago the traditional yule log was only available one way: a jelly roll cake filled with buttercream. The flavors were limited to chocolate, praline, vanilla and Grand Marnier for the adventuresome.

That’s all changed today, with a fanciful bûche de Noël becoming the showcase piece for the finest and most creative pastry chefs. Flavors such as litchi, rose petal, gingerbread, dark cherry, coconut and pineapple…it’s amazing what is now available at places such as La Grande Epicerie, Pierre Hermé and Ladurée. No longer content to shape this cake into a yule log, you can now find a bûche that looks like a quilted Chanel purse, a Champagne bottle, or a set of Louis Vuitton luggage! My favorite remains the traditional chocolate roll, with lots of little toys to pluck off the top and distribute to the small children at the table.

I know several French people who prefer the lighter ice cream or sorbet version to cap off their heavy holiday meal, but I’ll stick with tradition. You can always eat the leftovers for breakfast!

Lastly, as the French Christmas dinner extends into the night, more sweets will make an appearance on the French table. Here are a couple of delights that come from the South of France: clementines confit, or preserved tangerines, and les calissons d’Aix, which are an almond-paste-based cookie from Aix en Provence.

Bonnes fêtes de fin d’année! Happy holidays to all!

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Shelby Ocana is Californian by birth and Parisian by choice. She arrived in the City of Light for a six-month stay when she was 20 and three decades later she is still there, working in the field of study abroad and raising two bilingual, bicultural children. Paris is her favorite subject to write about. Even after living there for so many years, Shelby continues to find one new thing in the cityscape each and every day that thrills her heart and amazes her eyes.

(Image credits: Jenni Field, All other images by the Author)

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Where to dine this Christmas and New Year’s in Paris

Paris is magical during the holiday season, and if you are celebrating with a stay in one of our Paris apartment rentals, we are pleased to present our annual list of favorite dining spots for Christmas and New Year’s. Most restaurants require advance reservations for the holidays, so call early and don’t be disappointed.

Les Ombres

Translated, means “The Shadows,” which is a very fitting name for this elegant restaurant on top of the Quai Branly museum. With its clear glass roof, you will be dining quite literally in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower. The views are eye-popping from this unique venue, and it may be difficult to concentrate on your dinner with the dazzling light show of la Tour Eiffel just one block away.

Christmas Eve dinner at €160 includes Veuve Clicquot champagne and roasted goose with berries and winter vegetables.  Menu here

New Year’s Eve at €430, featuring champagne, caviar, and aged beef tenderloin. Menu here.

Le Ombres – open every day for lunch and dinner
Address: Quai Branly Museum, 37, quai Branly, 75007 Paris
Phone:  +33 1 47 53 68 00
To make reservations online, click here.

Le Violon d’Ingres

Beautiful holiday decorations at Le Violon d’Ingres in the 7th arrondissement

One of three restaurants by Michelin-starred chef Christian Constant, recently remodeled, and recommended by Patricia Wells in the New York Times. His flagship restaurant is definitely one of our “top 5” picks in Paris.

Serving their “Truffle Menu” on Christmas Eve & Christmas day, and their “Caviar Menu” on New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day.  Prices range from €120 to €300. Le Violon d’Ingres Christmas and New Year Menu – 2013

Le Violon d’Ingres
135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
Phone: +33 1 45 55 15 05
Lunch : 12h00 – 15h    Dinner : 18h30 – 23h
Email for reservations: violondingres@maisonconstant.com

Les Cocottes

A warm and inviting glimpse into Les Cocottes on rue Saint-Dominique

The minimal, modern décor and bar seating is a change from the more traditional Christian Constant restaurants, and featured on Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations TV show. Delicious cuisine, often served in their signature ceramic pots.  Another of our “top 5 picks.”  Special a la carte menu items offered during the Christmas & New Year’s holiday, including chicken stuffed with foie gras and truffles, scallop risotto, and the traditional Bûche de Noël (Yule log) for dessert. Prices approximately €60 for entrée, plat, and dessert. Les Cocottes Christmas Menu – 2013

Les Cocottes
135, rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
Open 7 days a week
Service from 12:00 to 15:30 and from 18:30 to 22:30
Reservations not accepted, arrive early, or prepare to wait

Café Constant

Cafe Constant just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower

Christian Constant’s casual and delicious bistro is one of our neighborhood favorites in the 7th arrondissement and an excellent value. Features traditional French cooking, cozy setting, and a friendly staff.  Along with the regular a la cart menu, special holiday items include venison with cranberries, and white truffle sausage, with celeriac mousseline. Approximately €60 for entrée, plat, and dessert. Cafe Constant Christmas Menu – 2013

Café Constant
139 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
Open 7 days a week
Breakfast:  8h00     Lunch:  12h – 14h30      Dinner:  19h – 22h30
Reservations not accepted, arrive early, or enjoy a drink at the bar while you wait.

Au Bon Accueil

Small, upscale bistro, a favorite with guests in the 7th arrondissement and a favorite of locals as well.  Considered a bargain by Guide Michelin.

Christmas Eve dinner– Dec 24 only, offered at 60 € featuring roast veal, or filet of wild dory.

New Year’s Eve – Dec 31 only, 90 € per person, offering sea bass or roasted guinea fowl.

Au Bon Accueil
Address:  14 rue de Monttessuy, 75007 Paris
Phone : +33 1 47 05 46 11
E-Mail: reservation@aubonaccueilparis.com
Métro: Alma Marceau

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If haute cuisine is more your style, gastronomic adventures await you at Paris’ most luxurious 5-star hotels.

Four Seasons Hotel George V

Four Seasons Hotel George V – Lobby Christmas Decorations designed by Jeff Leatham / Used with Permission

Executive chef Eric Briffard achieved 2 Michelin stars during his first year at the sumptuous Le Cinq restaurant. Experience elegance and prestige with their special menus at Le Cinq and La Galerie for both Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, with a live orchestra, a gospel choir, and a jazz quartet performing at various times.  Prices range from €410 to €1150.

Advance reservations required.  Menus and hours here: George V Christmas and New Year Menu – 2013

Four Seasons Hotel George V
31 avenue George V, 75008, Paris
+33 1 49 52 70 00

Hotel Le Bristol

Fine holiday dining at the Epicure restaurant at the Le Bristol / Used with Permission – Photographer: Jean-Baptiste Leroux

Celebrate under the “stars” at Le Bristol. Whether you choose the Michelin 3 star Restaurant Epicure, or the 1 star luxury brasserie 114 Faubourg, you will be delighted by the menus created by chef Eric Frechon.  You may recognize some of the interior from the filming of Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris.  Serving Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, prices range from €400 to €1100.

Live orchestra, DJ and dancing featured on New Year’s Eve. Advance reservations required.  Menus here: Le Bristol Christmas and New Year Menu – 2013

Hotel Le Bristol
112, rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré 75008 Paris
+33 1 53 43 43 00

Le Meurice

Holiday dining at Le Dali Restaurant at Hotel Meurice / Used with Permission – Photographer: ©Guillaume de Laubier

The height of elegance and glamour, Le Meurice offers two options for your holiday feast. Dine in 3-star Michelin splendor at the Restaurant Le Meurice, by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, or enjoy Le Dali restaurant, inspired by the artist. Both restaurants serve Christmas Eve and New Year’s eve only, and prices range from €320 to €980.  Live music on both evenings.

Advance reservations required.  Menus here: Hotel Le Meurice Christmas and New Year Menu – 2013

Le Meurice
Address: 228 rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Restaurant Le Maurice:     Tel: (33)1 44 58 10 55;  eMail –  restaurant.lmp@dorchestercollection.com
Restaurant Le Dali:  (33)1 44 58 10 44;  eMail – ledali.lmp@dorchestercollection.com

Note on phone numbers:  If dialing from outside France, the country code is 33, followed by 1, plus 8 digits.  If dialing within Paris, omit the country code, and add a zero in front of the 1, for example:

Outside France:  33 1 47 05 46 11; becomes 01 47 05 46 11 within Paris

Wishing you joyeuses fêtes and bon appétit from all of us at Paris Perfect!

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Many thanks to Mary Ann Grisham for this guest post for the Paris Perfect Blog.

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