As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better place to experience the magic of Christmas than in the enchanting city of Paris. With its twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a timeless charm, the City of Light transforms into a Christmas wonderland for several weeks. In this blog post, I share the top locations you must visit for a Magical Christmas in Paris.
Menu
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Printemps Haussmann
Place Vendôme
Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
La Rue des Bulles
Christmas Market
Avenue Montaigne
Champs-Élysées
Overall Thoughts
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Besides being a great place for shopping, the iconic department store, Galeries Lafayette, is renowned for its extravagant Christmas decorations. The enormous tree under the famous stained glass dome is a sight to behold. Each year, the theme changes, and the window displays are transformed into animated scenes. Truly a must-visit destination for those seeking festive cheer.
Every 30 minutes, the tree comes to life with a sound and light show that lasts about 5 minutes. It is possible to get up close to the tree via a glass walkway. As the flagship location it is more impressive than the one on the Champs-Élysées. Plus, don’t forget to visit the bookshop and rooftop for spectacular views of Paris and Montmartre!
Printemps Haussmann
Next door to Galeries Lafayette is another iconic department store that goes all out with its Christmas decorations. The facade of the building is adorned with lights and festive displays, and the interior features beautifully decorated Christmas trees. But the best decorations are the enchanting window displays outside! Like its neighbour, the theme changes every year.
Place Vendôme
Place Vendôme, a prestigious square known for its opulent history and high-end luxury, welcomes the holiday spirit with a touch of sophistication. To experience the Christmas decorations at Place Vendôme to the fullest, consider taking a leisurely stroll around the square, enjoying the lights, and exploring the luxury boutiques and cultural gems that contribute to the holiday ambience.
I also highly recommend enjoying a hot chocolate from one of the pop-up vendors or stepping into the Ritz Paris to warm up. This luxury hotel is also famous for its iconic Christmas tree!
Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
Leading away from Place Vendôme is Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, renowned as one of the most exclusive and fashionable streets in Paris. Christmas on this street is a sensory delight, where the glittering lights overhead cast a warm radiance on the impeccably adorned storefronts. The local business committee also erects pop-ups where visitors can pose for perfect Instagram photos.
Some of the best decorations can be found at the following stores: Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Chanel. Also, keep an eye out for hidden courtyards and covered passages, as they also have lovely decorations and smaller crowds!
La Rue des Bulles
For several years, Nicolas Feuillatte has organised this ephemeral event that is a must-visit for champagne-lovers. The youngest of the great Champagne Houses takes over a Parisian street with bubbly eco-friendly decor, Champagne experiences and tasting events, and live music. It’s worth visiting day and night!
Tuileries Garden Christmas Market
Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by visiting one of Paris’s many Christmas markets. The Tuileries Garden Christmas Market, located near the Louvre, is one of the largest. Here, you can indulge in seasonal treats (like vin chaud and raclette!), shop for unique gifts, view Paris from a Ferris wheel, and experience the joyous atmosphere that fills the air.
Avenue Montaigne
For a touch of luxury, stroll down Avenue Montaigne, known for its high-end fashion boutiques. Storefronts are decorated with elegant displays and the street is lined with brilliantly illuminated trees. Walk towards the Champs-Élysées and see the Eiffel Tower peeking above the rooftops. After sundown, the Eiffel Tower sparkles in a beautiful show 5 minutes past every hour. It’s a perfect destination for those who appreciate a more refined and upscale holiday experience.
Champs-Élysées
Finish your visit on one of the most famous streets in the world, Champs-Élysées. Strolling down underneath trees adorned with thousands of dazzling lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle. The entire avenue is bathed in a warm and festive glow, making it the perfect setting for a romantic evening walk or a leisurely exploration of the shops and nearby hotels (George V is particularly spectacular).
Some of the best displays can be found at Guerlain and the newly re-opened Maison Ladurée. I also highly recommend dining at Brasserie Fouquet’s Paris. Famous for hosting celebrities and cultural icons, it is a fantastic spot for classic French fare like escargots (some of the biggest I have eaten!) and onion soup.
Overall Thoughts
Christmas in Paris is a truly magical experience that combines the city’s rich history, cultural heritage, and festive traditions. Whether you’re captivated by the twinkling lights on Champs-Élysées, savouring the delights of Christmas markets, or last-minute shopping, Christmas in Paris promises to be an enchanting journey filled with joy, warmth, and unforgettable memories. So, bundle up (bring and umbrella), embrace the spirit of the season, and let the City of Light cast its festive spell on you this holiday season.