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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Enjoy a cozy Christmas stay overlooking historic Place Dauphine!

As the Christmas and New Year holidays approach, envision yourself in the heart of Paris as the City of Light transforms into a winter wonderland of enchantment. Why merely dream about it when you can make it a reality with Paris Perfect? Discover a sparkling world of festive magic where every corner of the city comes alive with holiday cheer. We’ve curated a list of 8 extraordinary Christmas and New Year’s experiences to make your winter stay unforgettable.

Right now during our Holiday Sale you can make your Paris dreams come true and save 20% on stays this holiday season! Use promo code “Holiday23” to unlock a 20% discount on selected vacation rentals, valid for arrivals from November 13 to December 31, 2023. But hurry, our exclusive Holiday Sale only runs from November 7 to 13, 2023. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience a winter season like no other with Paris Perfect. Your holiday adventure begins now!

1. Ice Skating

Picture this: Skating hand in hand in Paris, the frosty breeze on your face, and the joy of the holidays all around. From November 18, 2023, to January 7, 2024, the Jardin des Tuileries becomes home to a twinkling Christmas ice rink. For year-round skating fun, check out the Pailleron skating rink in the 19th arrondissement – the theme nights are a real treat. There are more pop up rinks to be announced, so stay tuned!

2. Christmas Market Hopping

Get your winter wonderland on by hopping between Christmas markets. Start with the Tuileries Market, which is perfect for families. You’ll find carnival rides, charming wooden chalets brimming with gifts and seasonal treats. La Défense Market is a bigger, bustling option with even more food and shopping. For a cozier, more traditional experience, venture to Le Marais Christmas Market. Nestled in the heart of the historic Marais district, this market exudes old-world charm. Here, you’ll discover artisanal crafts, unique gifts and a warm, community-oriented ambiance.

Enjoy a taste of the holiday season on a Christmas Food Tour in Paris! (Credit: Context Travel)

3. Join a Paris Christmas Food Tour

Guided by an expert in the culinary arts, delve into the beloved French holiday traditions. Visit local chocolate shops, patisseries and a traditional Christmas market to discover the best flavors of the season on this Paris Christmas Market and Food Tour. Learn about the delicious Bûche de Noël Christmas cakes, try sweets only available during the holiday season and enjoy shopping at one of the Left Bank’s best Christmas markets!

4. Disneyland Paris: A Magical Winter Wonderland!

At Disneyland Paris, the winter and holiday season cast a spell of enchantment over the park. The entire park is adorned with dazzling festive decorations, from sparkling lights to holiday-themed displays that transport you to a world of wonder. Special holiday-themed shows and parades come to life, adding an extra layer of enchantment to your visit. And the best part? This experience isn’t just for kids; it’s fun for the entire family, where cherished memories are made in a world of fantasy!

 

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5. Visit Paris Department Stores 

Winter in Paris shines, especially in its grand department stores. Galeries Lafayette becomes a winter wonderland under its grand dome, with its enormous Christmas tree aglow with lights and ornaments. From November 8, 2023, to January 9, 2024, the iconic La Samaritaine department store makes a triumphant return on the holiday scene. Its window displays promise a fusion of creativity and extravagance, adorned with massive fir trees, glistening decorations and chandeliers. Each year, every department store in Paris crafts unique displays that are nothing short of magical – a captivating reason to explore Paris in the winter.

Christmas lights and decorations on the Champs-Élysées.

6. Festival of Lights

When winter blankets the Île-de-France region, the Festival of Lights takes center stage, promising a world of captivating experiences. Some of our favorites include the transformation of Jardin des Plantes, where colossal illuminated statues of animals and plants come to life, creating a magical spectacle. Additionally, the Paris Christmas Illuminations 2023-24 program guarantees a sparkling journey through the city, from the iconic Champs-Élysées to the charming Bercy Village and beyond. There’s no shortage of alluring events and displays to explore in the City of Light during this magical time of year.

Save 20% now during our Holiday Sale on a winter stay at our beautiful Calvados apartment in Paris!

7. Celebrating Christmas Eve and Christmas in Paris

Imagine waking up on Christmas day in your cozy Paris Perfect vacation rental, surrounded by the sparkling lights of Paris. Whether you prepare a meal with ingredients from a local market or opt for a remarkable Christmas show, you’re in for a heartwarming and unforgettable holiday experience. This year, several theaters remain open on December 24 and 25, 2023, ensuring you have a Christmas Eve and day to remember, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with family.

Try the Galette des rois in January (credit)

8. Celebrate Epiphany with Galette des Rois

Embrace a cherished French tradition by ordering a scrumptious Galette des Rois. This flaky pastry filled with almond cream hides a tiny figurine, or fève, inside. Finding it means you get to wear the crown and reign as king or queen for the day! One of our favorite spots to order a Galette des Rois is at Lenôtre. This is a legendary pâtisserie in France. The shop first opened in 2003, and was instrumental in turning rue Cler into an trendy market street, before moving down around the corner.

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Holiday decorations in Place Dauphine.

With a festive atmosphere, beautiful lights and excellent shopping, there are so many reasons why Christmas in Paris is a magical experience. This year, celebrate the holidays Parisian-style with a stay at elegant La Place Dauphine, a 17th-century residence transformed into luxurious and comfortable vacation rentals. With six of the apartments located in one historic building, and two more properties available nearby, there’s plenty of space for your family and friends to gather together with the added convenience of fully-equipped kitchens and beautiful private spaces to relax. Here are a few of our favorite things that make La Place Dauphine the perfect place to stay this holiday and winter season!

The Castillon apartment – one of the six gorgeous properties at La Place Dauphine.

1. Enjoy Christmas Charm Parisian-Style

Located on the Île de la Cité island in the Seine, the charming Place Dauphine is the most central location for enjoying Paris. Not only are you right in the heart of the city, but you’re just a short stroll away from sights and shopping on both the Right and Left Banks. The historic Place Dauphine is decorated beautifully for the holidays. But just cross over to the Right Bank to find an “Enchanted Forest” in front of the Hôtel de Ville. Complete with light displays, a merry-go-round, and a cute winter market, this is festive spot from December 3-January 2.

Across the Seine on the Left Bank is the lovely little Marché de Noël Paris Notre Dame, a Christmas market in Square Vivani (near Shakespeare & Company bookstore – another great holiday shopping spot to support this iconic independent bookstore!) with artisan sellers from December 9-26.

Of course, you won’t want to miss a stroll down the Champs-Élysées to see the Christmas lights and a visit to the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market, which is the biggest in Paris.

A festive welcome to La Place Dauphine!

During the holiday season, don’t miss seeing the elaborate window displays and decorations at Paris’s Grands Magasins department stores. The decorations inside Galeries Lafayette as well as their windows are always over the top! See Primtemps while you’re in the area and then head to La Samaritaine for gorgeous holiday shopping. From there, it’s just a quick stroll across the Pont Neuf and you’re back home at Place Dauphine! Paris’s covered passages are also a lovely spot for shopping and holiday decorations.

Will you be lucky enough to see snow in Paris?

While Place Dauphine is charming year-round, it’s absolutely magical if you happen to catch it under a blanket of snow. All of our bedrooms at La Place Dauphine overlook this pretty square. Just imgaine opening your window in the morning to this view!

2. Warm Up at a Cozy Cafe

During the chilly time of the year, there’s nothing quite so inviting as a cozy Parisian cafe. Warm up with a vin chaud or rich hot chocolate while you’re out and about exploring. Place Dauphine has several charming restaurants and cafes that you can enjoy right at your doorstep while staying at La Place Dauphine. It’s the perfect location to try traditional French winter foods. Or, with your full kitchen, you can even recreate delicious seasonal recipes at home during your stay!

3. Come for the Holidays, Stay for the Sales!

After the holiday season is one of the best times of the year for shopping in Paris. There are two set sale periods in France and the winter sales will take place from January 11 to February 7, 2023. You can find deep discounts during these seasonal sales. Discounts often increase as the sales continue, starting at 20% off and reaching up to 50% off (or more!) in the last days of the sales period. You’ll love the convenience of being in the heart of Paris at La Place Dauphine with the best shopping spots on the Left and Right Banks just a beautiful stroll away!

Enjoying viewing and discovering more about La Place Dauphine and contact our team to book a magical stay this winter in Paris!

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The holidays are approaching and that means it’s nearly time for the festive Christmas Markets to start appearing in some of the most iconic spots in Paris. This tradition dates back to the 1400s in France and is a much-loved part of the Christmas season. Wrap up in a warm scarf and sip a spiced vin chaud while strolling through the markets lined with wooden chalets selling traditional crafts and gifts from around France. With games and lights and delicious foods to try, it’s fun for the whole family! From the exuberant Marché de Noël along the Champs-Elysées to the charming little Christmas markets dotted throughout the city, here’s a look at the best Christmas Markets in Paris. Enjoy a good dose of holiday cheer this year in Paris!

Marché de Noël des Champs-Elysées

One of the best Marchés de Noël sets up along the Champs-Elysées with twinkling lights and over 150 wooden chalets lining the famous boulevard from the soaring Ferris wheel at Place de la Concorde to Rond Point des Champs Elysées where there’s always an impressive and creative display of lights. The atmosphere is festive and bustling with Parisians and visitors alike strolling along, peeking in to see what’s on display at each chalet and enjoying sampling delicious foods or warming up with a vin chaud. Take a stroll down the Champs-Elysées Christmas Market from last year to get an idea of how much fun it is!

This Christmas market is not only one of the largest in Paris, but is also the earliest to start. From mid November you can get in the holiday spirit and enjoy some excellent Christmas shopping at the Champs-Elysées Christmas Market.

Details: Open daily from 14 November 2014 to 4 January 2015
Location: Along the Avenue des Champs-Elysées from Place de la Concorde to Rond Point des Champs Elysées
Nearest Transport: Champs Elysées – Clemenceau or Concorde

Trocadéro Christmas Market

With the Eiffel Tower soaring just across the Seine, the Trocadéro Christmas Market has a spectacular setting, especially at night when the Eiffel Tower sparkles while you’re strolling along the chalets or taking a spin around the ice rink. This market features about 100 chalets and is a fun setting for kids. The Trocadéro Christmas Market opens mid December and is just a short stroll across the Pont d’Iena from our vacation rentals in the 7th arrondissement.

Details: Open daily from mid-December to beginning of January. (Dates to be announced.)
Location: Jardins du Trocadéro (just across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower)
Nearest Transport: Trocadéro or Champ de Mars/ Tour Eiffel on the RER

Christmas Market at the Notre Dame Cathedral

A newer arrival on the Christmas Market scene, there will be a market near Notre Dame Cathedral devoted to crafts, handmade items and gourmet foods. This market takes the cake (or should we say the bûche de Noël?) for the best backdrop. You’ll have a chance to see the Christmas tree in front of Notre Dame and pop inside to see the nativity scene, too. Warm vin chaud, the scent of roasted chestnuts and Notre Dame … yes, that’s pretty much Christmas perfection!

Details: Open daily from mid-December until Christmas (Dates to be announced)
Location: Setting near Notre Dame to be confirmed
Nearest Transport: Metro/RER St Michel or Cité

Saint Germain des Prés Christmas Market & Santa’s Village

Just steps from the famous Café de Flore and fashion stores like Louis Vuitton you’ll find a charming little Christmas Market set up alongside the St. Germain des Prés abbey in the 6th arrondissement. Starting earlier in December, this market is a fun stop while out holiday shopping in Saint Germain. Warm up with a vin chaud and the festive atmosphere before heading back to your Paris Perfect vacation rental nearby.

Details: From 6 December 2014 until 2nd January 2015
Location: Place Saint Germain des Prés (along the abbey)
Nearest Transport: Metro Saint Germain des Prés

Saint Sulpice Christmas Market

A lovely Christmas Market sets up on Place Saint Sulpice in the 6th arrondissement at the beginning of December and runs through Christmas. Pick up your bûche de Noël at Pierre Hermé nearby and enjoy strolling through the market to get in the holiday spirit. The streets surrounding Saint Sulpice are fabulous for shopping, too!

Details: From 1 – 24 December 2014
Location: Place Saint Sulpice
Nearest Transport: Metro St-Sulpice

Montmartre Christmas Market

The lovely Place des Abbesses is home to one of Montmartre’s quaint Christmas markets, which is the perfect spot for some holiday shopping and some warm roasted chestnuts (marron chaud) to keep you warm on the walk up to Sacre Coeur. Christmas markets like this one set such a festive backdrop to strolls through Paris, which we love doing all seasons of the year!

Details: From 29 November 2014 – 1 January 2015
Location: Place des Abbesses
Nearest Transport: Metro Abbesses

How to Best Enjoy Paris Christmas Markets!

You know the holiday season has truly arrived when the Christmas Markets, or Marchés de Noël, are set up all over Paris. This time of year, many streets are also strung with beautiful lights, a much-needed antidote to the long nights of winter. The twinkling, festive markets instill a sense of nostalgia and childlike wonder that is hard to come by during the rest of the year. Here’s our guide for what to do, see and eat at the Paris Christmas markets this year!

Admire the General Splendor

Decorated trees, life-size figurines of nutcrackers, Santas and reindeer, twinkling lights: all of these things can be found at the Christmas Markets in Paris. In the daytime, they’re certainly charming, but at night, everything illuminates and looks like a winter wonderland! There are markets in front of Notre Dame, the Montparnasse Tower, and the Grande Arche of La Défense, but the Champs-Elysées and Eiffel Tower markets are the most impressive at night. The sun sets quite early in Paris during the winter, at about 5pm, so you won’t have any problems catching the pretty lights!

Eiffel Tower Christmas Market

17 Dec. 2015 to 03 Jan. 2016
Quai Branly, the Riverbank in front of the Eiffel Tower
Access: Champs de Mars Tour Eiffel (RER C and metro line 6)

Go Gift Shopping

There’s a huge variety of gifts sold at Christmas Markets. Go for something more traditional and buy some Paris-themed tree ornaments, a warm hat or fuzzy gloves, or check out more unique stalls that sell wooden figurines, wind chimes and jewelry. Many stalls also sell confections like blocks of nougat, often filled with almonds or dried fruit; canelés, little cinnamon cakes from Bordeaux with a caramelized crust; and chocolate in all shapes and flavors. The nougat and chocolate will stay fresh for the return journey, if you plan on gifting them to a loved one back home, but the canelés may need a ziplock bag to keep them fresh!

Take Your Kids on a Ride

At many Christmas Markets, you’ll find a handful of carnival rides for your kids to enjoy. Funhouses, small roller coasters, and gorgeous carousels. You’ll have some very happy children on your hands after they enjoy a sweet snack and fun ride! For more kid-friendly activities in Paris, see our guide here!

Grab a Snack

A traditional dish served at Christmas markets is tartiflette, a rich dish of gratin potatoes, lardons and onions, and the potatoes are slathered in a generous helping of reblochon cheese. A common accompaniment is grilled sausage, either in a baguette “bun” topped with caramelized onions, or alone. Talk about comfort food! If Tartiflette doesn’t help you combat the cold weather, we don’t know what will. Other common snacks include waffles (gaufres) topped with nutella, bananas, strawberries or whipped cream, as well as crêpes and cotton candy.

Sip a Hot Beverage

Parisian Christmas Markets are the best place to get Vin Chaud, or hot spiced wine. Red wine is traditional, flavored with cinnamon and orange, but hot white wine is also sometimes offered. This is a perfect option if you’re not in the mood for a richer Hot Chocolate, but that’s always an option as well! We recently put together a guide to the best hot beverages in Paris, so check it out here for some more ideas on how to stay warm!

More Christmas Market Fun!

Looking for even more Christmas spirit? There are even more Christmas Markets to explore in Paris at the Gare de l’Est, Place de la Republique, near the Gare Montparnasse and the huge market at La Défense, which has over 350 chalets. Children will enjoy discovering the Christmas village at Disneyland Paris, too! Find out about more Paris Christmas Markets here.

(Image Credits: visitingeu, Champs Elysées courtesy Paris Tourist Office – Photographer: Jacques Lebar, Notre Dame Christmas Market by Heatheronhertravels.com, Trocadero Ice Rink and Montmartre Christmas Market courtesy Paris Tourist Office – Photographer: Daniel Thierry, Saint Germain Christmas Market courtesy Paris Tourist Office – Photographer: Marc Bertrand)

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Spend the holidays surrounded by the romance of Paris this year!

The temperatures are dropping in Paris, and it’s that time of year when we start thinking ahead to the holidays. Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and soon the first signs of the Christmas holiday season will start appearing in the shop windows and with the colorful lights up and down the streets of Paris. We love the atmosphere and undeniable romance of Paris during the holidays, with the excitement of holiday shopping in the air and all the little cafés where you can warm up with your loved one while sipping a vin chaud. If you’re thinking of doing something special for the holidays this year, why not plan a romantic escape to Paris? The City of Light is a beautiful backdrop for making Christmas and New Year’s memories of a lifetime!

Romantic Things to See & Do in Paris for the Holidays

Paris has a romantic charm during the winter, and even more so around Christmas and New Year’s. If you haven’t been to Paris in the winter before, here are some of our favorite things to do during the holidays in Paris for inspiration!

Christmas Lights on the Champs-Elysées 

Soak up the holiday atmosphere along the Champs-Elysées in Paris

The Champs-Elysées is at its most elegant during the holidays when it’s decked out with lights and filled with the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping. Parisians and visitors alike hit this grand promenade to enjoy the holiday windows, see the light displays and do a bit of shopping at some of the biggest names in fashion. Even if you’re just window shopping, the holiday atmosphere is festive along the Champs-Elysées!

Paris Christmas Markets

Soak up the holiday atmosphere at the Christmas markets in Paris

For a different type of holiday shopping experience, head to a Marché de Noël, or Christmas market, to find all kinds of traditional crafts, decorations and Christmas items on display. One of our favorite Christmas markets is at the Trocadéro just across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy a vin chaud, or mulled wine, while strolling through the wooden chalet-style stalls and picking out some Christmas treats like gingerbread and other specialties. Find out more about all the Christmas markets in Paris here.

Ice Skating in Paris

Ice skating at the Hotel de Ville in Paris

Hold hands while ice skating on one of the romantic icons of Paris – the Eiffel Tower. Yes, you can actually ice skate right on the Eiffel Tower! Or if you prefer a view with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop, head to ice rink at the Trocadéro Christmas Market just across the Seine. One of the largest rinks in Paris is set up in the large square in front of the Hôtel de Ville. Bundle up and enjoy a unique winter experience while ice skating in Paris!

Warm up at a Paris Café

Warm up with a vin chaud or hot chocolate at a charming Parisian café

After ice skating or meandering through the streets of Paris, there’s no better way to warm up than with a vin chaud at a little café. While the outdoor tables are only for the bravest souls, step inside where you’ll find a cozy setting. While warming up you can plan the rest of your day exploring Paris or simply sit back and enjoy watching Paris life go by outside.

Holiday Shopping in Paris

Enjoy the spectacular holiday decorations and window displays at Galeries Lafayette in Paris

For a grand holiday shopping experience in Paris, head to the Grand Magasins, or department stores, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps near the Opera Garnier in the 9th arrondissement. We love stopping in to see the Christmas decorations on display under the beautiful dome at Galeries Lafayette. If you’re looking for something special as a holiday surprise for family and friends back home, the Grand Magasins are a great spot!

Winter Walk in the Snow

The beautiful Pont Alexandre III over the Seine with a romantic snowfall

If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris when the city is covered with a blanket of snow, you’ll find an enchanting winter setting. Wrap up and enjoy a romantic walk along the Seine or through the Champ de Mars gardens just after the snow. Paris is even more romantic with a dusting of snow!

A Romantic Holiday Stay with Paris Perfect

If you’re planning a getaway for the Christmas holidays or looking to spend a romantic New Year’s Eve in Paris, our vacation rentals are a wonderful choice! Enjoy a cozy and romantic setting right in the heart of Paris where you can savor the charms of the Parisian lifestyle in your own home away from home in Paris. Wake up in the morning and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with fresh croissants or pastries from a local bakery, spend your days exploring Paris’ famous museums and landmarks and return home to your Paris Perfect apartment for a romantic evening at home. Many of our Paris vacation rentals, such as the one bedroom Volnay, feature stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Make a toast to an unforgettable holiday in Paris this year!

Enjoy a romantic escape in Paris at our Volnay vacation rental near the Eiffel Tower

When you rent an apartment in Paris you’ll enjoy a comfortable setting and the charms of living like a Parisian. Shop at the local open-air markets and stop in the neighborhood specialty food shops to pick out all the ingredients you’ll need for a gourmet dinner at home. At our Pomerol one bedroom vacation rental you’ll be right at the famous Rue Cler market street! Shop alongside Parisians at one of Paris’ best market streets and enjoy dinner at home with views of the Eiffel Tower from the Pomerol.

Enjoy a romantic stay in Paris at the Pomerol – a charming one-bedroom apartment with views of the Eiffel Tower from the bedroom!

Our apartments are located in lovely neighborhoods where you can walk to excellent restaurants, cafés or brasseries for a romantic evening out. When you return home you’ll be treated to marvelous views of the Eiffel Tower as is sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights during the magical light show every hour on the hour!

Enjoy romantic evenings at home with outstanding views of the Eiffel Tower with Paris Perfect!

Holiday bookings go fast for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Paris! If you’re thinking of a romantic escape this holiday season, contact us and we’ll help you find the perfect Paris vacation rental for your holiday vacation.

Photo credits: Paris ornament by LenDog64, Lights on the Champs-Elysées by Trey Ratcliff, Paris Christmas Market by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra, Ice Skating in Paris by Laura Thayer by majunznk, Parisian Café at Christmastimes by Joseph M. Marti, Galeries Lafayette Christmas by Gabriele Barni, Christmas at Notre-Dame by Laura Thayer, Pont Alexandre III by Jean-François Gornet

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