Paris Christmas Market Guide
Your Guide To Paris Christmas Market
There’s nothing like Christmas in Paris. The iconic city is illuminated with Christmas lights and wrapped in a festive glow. Paris is famous for its many Christmas markets that pop up all over the city, but it can be difficult to know which ones to visit during your trip. We’ve put together a list of the best Christmas markets in Paris to help you plan the perfect festive break in one of the world’s most magical cities.
Christmas Village, La Defense Esplanade
When: November 14th – December 29th 2024
The La Defense Christmas Village is the biggest market in Paris and a must-visit if you’re looking for a lively market full of things to do. It’s nestled in Paris’s business district, so you can enjoy the festivities under the skyscrapers and dazzling city lights.
There are over 200 chalets, selling everything from artisanal products made by locals to regional wines. Head to the food court to enjoy warming, delicious delicacies like raclette, crepes and tartiflette while you soak in the lively atmosphere. There’s also a DJ playing your favourite Christmas tunes and plenty of family-friendly activities if you’re visiting the market with kids.
Notre-Dame Christmas Market
When: November 29th – December 25th 2024
Head to Square Viviani to wander through the Christmas markets in the shadow of one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, Notre-Dame. The historic square is decorated for the festive season, with stalls selling hand-crafted goods and local artisanal food.
Gastronomy is the focus of the Notre-Dame Christmas Market – stop by to sample famous French foods like saucisson and foie gras. You can also enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine while you browse the stalls.
Abbesses Christmas Market
When: November 23rd – December 29th 2024
Head to Montmartre to visit one of the city’s quieter markets. The Abbesses Christmas Market is a cosy option if you’re looking for a small, quaint market in one of Paris’s most bohemian neighbourhoods.
There are only around 15 stalls, but you can still enjoy an array of local French delicacies, including wine, cheese and other festive snacks. Take the kids to the Abbesses Christmas Market to meet Santa or visit for a quieter alternative to the city centre. Montmartre is also packed with history, and it’s worth visiting the Sacré Coeur while you’re there.
Champ de Mars Christmas Market
When: 7th December 2024 – 5th January 2025
Embrace the festive season at the Champ de Mars Christmas Market, a bustling market beneath the Eiffel Tower. It’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular Christmas markets – its central location and proximity to major landmarks add a sprinkle of Parisian magic.
Explore more than 100 stalls to find a range of hand-crafted items, from decorations to children’s toys, and stop to enjoy a waffle and a glass of mulled wine as you admire the setting. You can even visit the ice rink for an unforgettable skate beneath the Eiffel Tower!
Saint-Germain des Pres Christmas Market
When: 26th November 2024 – January 1st 2025
St Germain des Pres is a must-visit area during any trip to Paris, and it comes alive at Christmastime. The Saint-Germain des Pres Christmas Market consists of 25 chalets of arts, crafts and local foods. Beyond the market, enjoy attractions like Église de Saint-Germain des Pres in the glow of the twinkly festive lights.
Whether you want to pay a visit to Santa’s Grotto or indulge in homemade treats and mulled wine, visit the Place Saint-Germain des Pres to celebrate the season and revel in a truly Parisian Christmas atmosphere.
Gifts to Bring Back From Paris
A Christmas break in Paris wouldn’t be complete without Christmas shopping. Whether you want to treat your loved ones to couture gifts from France’s top designers or locally crafted goodies from the markets, spread joy this Christmas with these gifts:
- Chocolates
- Macarons
- Hand-made toys and decorations
- Artisanal candles
- Clothing
- Local wine
