Paris, the City of Light, is a magical place to spend the festive season. With its stunning architecture, charming streets, and sumptuous cuisine, there’s no better place to celebrate Christmas than the French capital. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here are some great ideas to make the most of Christmas 2018 in Paris.
Exploring the Christmas Markets: One of the highlights of Christmas in Paris is the abundance of enchanting Christmas markets that pop up throughout the city. From the iconic Champs-Elysées market to the charming market in Montmartre, these markets offer a feast for the senses. Stroll through the stalls, savoring the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, while browsing for unique handicrafts and decorations to add a touch of Paris to your own Christmas celebrations.
Visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral: Notre-Dame Cathedral is a must-visit landmark in Paris at any time of year, but it takes on a whole new level of splendor during the Christmas season. Admire the grandeur of the cathedral’s Gothic architecture, and attend a Christmas Mass to experience the stunning display of spirituality and devotion. The interior of Notre-Dame is adorned with exquisite Christmas decorations, creating a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Ice Skating at the Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower is the most celebrated symbol of Paris, and during Christmas, it transforms into a winter wonderland. Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at the ice skating rink located just beneath the iconic tower. The breathtaking view of Paris from the rink is truly unforgettable, especially at night when the city sparkles with festive lights.
Indulging in French Gastronomy: Christmas in Paris wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the exquisite French cuisine. Treat yourself to a festive meal at one of the city’s many Michelin-starred restaurants, where renowned chefs craft special menus for the occasion. From foie gras to oysters, and from turkey to buche de Noel (a traditional Yule log cake), the gastronomic delights of Parisian Christmas will leave you completely satisfied and longing for more.
Attending Christmas Concerts and Performances: The vibrant Parisian arts scene comes alive during the holiday season, offering a wide array of world-class concerts and performances. Catch a ballet performance at the legendary Palais Garnier or enjoy a classical music concert at one of the city’s prestigious concert halls. The dazzling performances combined with the festive atmosphere promise to create unforgettable memories.
Admiring the Christmas Illuminations: Paris truly sparkles during Christmas with its brilliantly illuminated streets, monuments, and store windows. Embark on a nighttime stroll along the Champs-Elysées, where the breathtaking Christmas lights illuminate the grand boulevard. Marvel at the festive decorations adorning the luxury department stores, such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, which compete to create the most spectacular festive displays.
Taking a Boat Cruise on the Seine: For a unique perspective of the city’s Christmas charm, embark on a cruise along the Seine River. Glide past iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Eiffel Tower, all shimmering with Christmas lights. Witness the city’s beauty from the water, while enjoying a glass of champagne and a festive dinner on board.
Spending Christmas 2018 in Paris is a magical experience that will leave you with memories for a lifetime. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the festive markets, indulge in gourmet cuisine, or simply soak in the enchanting atmosphere, Paris offers a truly unique and unforgettable Christmas experience. So, embrace the spirit of the season and make your way to the City of Light this Christmas.