Strolling Through Paris: A Christmas Market Weekend

Strolling Through Paris: A Magical Christmas Market Weekend

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays, and this year, I decided to make it extra special by hopping on a plane for a weekend getaway to Europe—most importantly, to Paris—to experience the city’s enchanting Christmas markets.

Paris Notre-Dame Christmas Market

Located in Square Viviani, the Paris Notre-Dame Christmas Market is extra special this year, with the cathedral reopening in early December. Running from November 29 to December 25, 2024, this market is the perfect place to soak in French holiday traditions in a cozy quaint market.

What to Expect: Wooden chalets line the park, featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts and festive treats. Musicians and choirs perform live from 4 PM, adding a magical ambiance. Santa Claus even makes appearances here!

Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, with extended hours until 9 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Location: Square Viviani, Square René Viviani, 75005 Paris 5

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La Défense Marché de Noël

If you’re looking for the largest Christmas market in the Paris region, head to La Défense. This market is a true festive spectacle, running from November 14 to December 29, 2024.

What Makes It Unique: With an ice skating rink, full indoor sit-down restaurants, and a giant gift shop, this market is perfect for families and large groups.

Highlights: Browse hundreds of stalls offering everything from holiday gifts to gourmet treats, and enjoy the festive atmosphere under the iconic La Défense skyscrapers.

Hours: Monday to Thursday: 11 AM to 9 PM, Friday: 11 AM to 10 PM, Saturday: 10 AM to 10 PM, Sunday: 11 AM to 9 PM.

Location: Esplanade de Paris La Défense, Esplanade de La Défense, 92800Puteaux

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Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market

Set in the stunning garden near the Louvre, this market is a must-visit for anyone seeking a festive Parisian vibe. Running from November 16, 2024, to January 1, 2025, it’s one of the longest-running markets in the city.

What to Enjoy: With over 80 wooden chalets, you’ll find artisan crafts, festive food, and even fairground rides. It’s the perfect spot for both kids and adults to embrace the holiday cheer.

Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 11:45 PM.

Food Tip: This market boasts some of the best food options I encountered, from crêpes to mulled wine.

Location: Tuileries Gardens, Jardin des Tuileries, 75001 Paris 1

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Marché de Noël de la Ville de Paris

Nestled near Place de la Concorde, this market is nothing short of magical. Running from December 14, 2024, to January 5, 2025, it’s a newer addition to the Paris Christmas market scene.

Festive Touches: The area is decorated with over 1,000 real Christmas trees, creating an enchanting urban forest. Wooden figurines and light displays add to the magic.

What to Expect: About a dozen chalets sell Christmas items, and Santa Claus makes appearances on select days.

Hours: Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM

Location: Place de la Concorde, 75008 Paris

Ice Skating at the Grand Palais

One of the most iconic winter activities in Paris is ice skating beneath the stunning glass roof of the Grand Palais. This year, the rink is open from December 14, 2024, to January 8, 2025.

What Makes It Special: Imagine gliding on the world’s largest indoor ice rink, illuminated by dazzling lights and disco balls. By night, the rink transforms into a dance floor with DJs setting the festive mood.

Location: Grand Palais, 3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 75008 Paris.

Booking: Reservations are required and can be made at www.legrandpalaisdesglaces.fr.

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Paris during the holiday season is a truly magical experience. From the charm of the Christmas markets to the thrill of ice skating at the Grand Palais, every corner of the city sparkles with festive joy. Whether you're sipping mulled wine, browsing for unique gifts, or simply soaking in the enchanting ambiance, Paris is the perfect destination to celebrate Christmas. If you’re planning a winter getaway, don’t miss out on these incredible markets and activities. Joyeux Noël!

Visited last in December 2024