It truly is the most wonderful time of the year… Especially when you live in Paris!

Lights, markets, garlands, and window decor galore line and dot small and large neighborhoods alike all over the city and into the suburbs. Needless to say, it’s absolutely gorgeous, and some would even say it’s magical.

Christmastime is one of my favorite seasons to be in Paris, so I’ve compiled some of my favorite activities for this time of year. They’re sure to help you make the most out of this holiday season!

Marchés de Noël

Perhaps the most obvious Christmas activity is Paris is checking out the various Christmas markets. The largest in the city are held at the Jardin de Tuileries (a large holiday carnival) and near La Grande Arche de La Défense (more food and shopping, no rides).

Department Stores

The numerous department stores go all-out for Christmas as well. I love seeing the new decorations at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche and Galeries de Lafayette, and you may also want to check out Printemps, BHV Marais, and similar shopping centers.

@robinboch

Always one of my favorite spots in Paris around the holidays! #paris #paristiktok #paristok #france #bonmarche #fyp #travel #fyp #traveltiktok

♬ All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

Montmartre

One of the coziest areas in the city, Montmartre somehow feels even more warm and spirited this time of year. Chalets with traditional holiday market foods and gifts crowd the area near the Abbesses metro stop, and don’t forget to grab a crêpe and some vin chaud as you explore the area!

Hot Chocolate

When the weather gets cold and rainy, there’s nothing quite like a pot of chocolat chaud with a pile of chantilly to add on top. Classic Parisian restaurants where you can find in incredible hot chocolate around the holidays (or any time of year) include Angelina, Café de Flore, and Les Deux Magots.

@robinboch

Chocolat chaud season at Café de Flore #paris #france #europe #paristiktok #paristok #hotchocolate #fyp #christmas #travel #traveltiktok

♬ Hot Chocolate – Tom Hanks

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

If you take a stroll down Boulevard Saint Germain this time of year, you will stumble upon Christmas market chalets, brightly lit trees, and maybe even a group of carolers. Most of the holiday action occurs near the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro stop.

Luxury Lights

Each year, the Champs-Elysées has a special lighting event, and the luxury brands on this street and others in the area spare no cost with their decor and lights. Shops and businesses around Place de la Concorde have a similar feel to them.

Joyeux Noël de Paris à tous!