Paris, often called the City of Light, takes on an extra layer of magic during the festive season. Streets glitter with fairy lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts drifts through the air, and the city’s Christmas markets bring holiday traditions to life in unforgettable ways.
These winter markets are a celebration of French craftsmanship and seasonal joy. Visitors can browse stalls filled with handmade ornaments, wool scarves, gourmet chocolates, mulled wine, and regional treats from across the country. Whether it’s a grand avenue lined with stalls or a small neighborhood market, each has its own charm and atmosphere.
For many travelers, the highlight of the season is more than just shopping—it’s the feeling of being surrounded by twinkling lights, warm drinks, and the laughter of families and friends. Every corner of the city seems to hum with festive energy, making it a favorite holiday destination year after year.
Here are some top-rated Christmas experiences in Paris to elevate your winter getaway:
Top Christmas Experiences in Paris
- Christmas & New Years Dinner Cruises – Admire Paris illuminated as you glide along the Seine while savoring an elegant meal.
- Christmas Day Dinner Cruise on the Seine – A beloved option for travelers; tickets tend to sell fast.
- New Years Eve Dinner Cruise & Party – Ring in the new year with music, lights, and incredible views.
- Swan Lake Ballet at Théâtre des Champs-Élysées – A timeless ballet that embodies the spirit of the season.
Top 19 Christmas Markets to Visit in Paris
Paris is home to Christmas markets that appear throughout the city from late November until early January, bringing a festive spirit to every corner. These seasonal events become a highlight of the Parisian winter experience, attracting locals and tourists alike.
One of the defining aspects of these markets is the wooden chalets, lined up in neat rows. Inside, visitors will find a range of seasonal items: from handcrafted decorations and regional treats to arts and crafts, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wines. The markets also feature festive touches like garlands, beautifully decorated trees, and even Santa’s workshops, offering a truly immersive holiday atmosphere.
1. Notre-Dame Christmas Market: A Holiday Tradition
This holiday season, the magic of Notre-Dame is reborn as the Christmas market comes to life just across the Seine from the iconic cathedral. The market brings together artisans from all over France, offering a collection of paintings, pottery, jewelry, and decorative items. Visitors can also indulge in an array of local delicacies like French sausages, cheeses, and foie gras.
Capture a festive moment with Père Noël and shop for handcrafted goods, each piece proudly marked as fait en France. The market offers an authentic experience where you can explore the talents of local craftspeople. Don’t forget to swing by the cheese booth for a true taste of Paris!
Square René Viviani
5th Arrondissement
December 9 to 26
Metro – Maubert-Mutualité
2. The Christmas Village at Les Halles: A Holiday Extravaganza
One of Paris’s largest holiday markets, the Christmas Village at Les Halles offers a festive experience with over sixty chalets filled with seasonal crafts, decorations, and mouthwatering treats. A grand Christmas tree stands as the centerpiece, adding to the festive spirit.
Children can enjoy activities like writing letters to Santa and exploring the Enchanted Forest, where they can embark on a magical search for Père Noël’s house. Since its debut in 2017, after a multi-year renovation at Les Halles, the market has become a favorite winter destination.
Fontaine des Innocents, Place Joachim-du-Bellay
1st Arrondissement
Late November to late December
Metro – Les Halles
3. Montmartre Christmas Market: A Hidden Gem
Head up to Place des Abbesses in Montmartre and experience the Christmas market, set against the backdrop of this artistic neighborhood. At this time of year, the area transforms into a festive hub with a charming children’s carousel and a delightful Christmas market.
Though smaller in scale, with only around twenty chalets, the market’s charm and variety more than make up for its size. Be sure to spend a few hours here, browsing local crafts and seasonal treats. Afterward, explore the Montmartre quartier, where artists like Picasso and Van Gogh once lived and worked, adding a historical touch to your festive visit.
Place des Abbesses
Montmartre, 18th Arrondissement
End of November to early January
Metro – Abbesses
4. 18th Century Christmas Market: A Festive Journey Through Paris
This holiday season, head to the abandoned railway track of Le Petit Ceinture for its annual Christmas market. The market, set in a unique location, features thirty exhibitors displaying their creations, from jewelry and crafts to body care products and fashion. All of the items are proudly crafted in the 18th Arrondissement of Paris, offering a true local experience.
Le Hasard Ludique
128 Avenue de Saint-Ouen
18th Arrondissement
December 19
Metro – Porte de Clignancourt
5. A Magical Village de Noël by the Eiffel Tower: A Sparkling Holiday Experience
Located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this Christmas market is one of the most cherished holiday destinations in Paris. As you shop for gifts, you’ll find a wide range of seasonal items to fill your bags, from festive decorations to delicious French treats.
After you’ve finished your shopping, linger around the Eiffel Tower to enjoy the breathtaking light show that illuminates the landmark each evening. The sparkling display adds an extra layer of magic to the holiday season in Paris.
For a charming side trip, head to Rue St. Dominique nearby, where the streets are adorned with Christmas lights shaped like the Eiffel Tower, adding a festive touch to the entire neighborhood.
Champs de Mars, Eiffel Tower
7th Arrondissement
Mid to late December
Metro – Alma-Marceau, Bir-Hakeim
6. La Défense Christmas Market: Paris’s Grand Holiday Experience
La Défense Christmas Market, the largest of its kind in Paris, is a must-visit destination, boasting an impressive 350 chalets. This sprawling market draws visitors in with its vast selection of seasonal offerings and breathtaking holiday atmosphere.
As evening falls, La Défense transforms into a sparkling spectacle with towering buildings aglow. The market is the perfect opportunity to explore this modern business district while enjoying the holiday charm. Plan to spend several hours browsing through the wide variety of goods, from fresh oysters and regional sausages to a range of cheeses and festive baked treats.
A standout feature of the market is the Canadian section, where visitors can sample and purchase authentic maple syrup from Quebec. The experience is further enhanced by thematic displays and an open-air ice rink, creating a festive environment rich in seasonal joy.
Parvis de la Defense, Grande Arche
La Défense
End of November to end of December
Metro – La Défense
7. Gare de l’Est Alsatian Christmas Market: A Taste of Alsace in Paris
Craving a kougelhopf? It’s not a playful suggestion — the famous Alsatian brioche cake, filled with raisins and almonds, was introduced to France by Marie Antoinette herself. This cake is a staple at the two-week Christmas Market held annually at the historic Gare de l’Est, making it an irresistible treat for visitors.
While the kougelhopf is a highlight, the market offers much more than just this delightful dessert. The Alsatian-themed Christmas market is packed with other seasonal delicacies, including gingerbread, galettes, and savory treats like funky Munster cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and rich foie gras. To round off the experience, enjoy a glass of sweet Riesling wine.
Place du 11 Novembre 1918
10th Arrondissement
First two weeks of December
Metro – Gare de l’Est
8. A Charming Christmas Market in Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A Festive Parisian Stroll
Hop off the Metro at Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) and step into a Christmas market featuring twenty-five chalets offering a selection of authentic arts, crafts, and seasonal local foods. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts and taste traditional holiday treats.
Once your shopping bags are full, explore the charm of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. Visit the historic Église Saint-Germain, the church that gives the neighborhood its name, or enjoy a coffee at iconic literary cafes like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore.
Place Saint-Germain des Prés
6th Arrondissement
Mid-December to early January
Metro – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
9. A Festive Marché de Noël in the 15th Arrondissement: A Local Holiday Tradition
Located next to the mairie of the 15th arrondissement, this charming neighborhood Christmas market offers a cozy holiday experience. With twenty chalets, you’ll find regional specialties, festive crafts, jewelry, decorations, and fun games for all ages.
The market also features Christmas carols, pony rides, sleigh rides, and a merry-go-round, creating a cheerful atmosphere for families. Kids will be thrilled to receive goodie bags from Père Noël himself, making it a special stop for younger visitors.
31 Rue Peclet
15th Arrondissement
December 15 to 24
Metro – Volontaires
Beyond The Eiffel Tower – The 15th Arrondissement
10. Les Faeries d’Auteil Christmas Market: A Festive Celebration of Tradition
This lively Christmas market in the 16th arrondissement brings the best of the season’s offerings. Expect mulled wine, foie gras, rich cheeses, and gingerbread, alongside a selection of local crafts, jewelry, and decorations. A highlight is the traditional santons — the hand-painted figures from Provence that add charm to any holiday display.
In addition to the market stalls, you’ll find nativity scenes, a flea market, and festive concerts that bring music and cheer to the event. Don’t forget to admire the beautifully decorated Christmas trees that line the market, adding a sparkling touch to the scene.
40 Rue Jean de la Fontaine
16th Arrondissement
Usually around December 2 to 10
Metro – Jasmin
Other Must-Visit Christmas Markets in Paris
11. Les Fééries d’Auteuil: A Christmas Market with a Purpose
The Apprentis d’Auteuil Foundation hosts the Les Fééries d’Auteuil Christmas market, offering a selection of eco-friendly leather goods, paintings, jewelry, and thoughtful gifts. Every purchase at the market contributes to supporting young people in need, making it a meaningful shopping experience.
Visit the market to find distinctive, high-quality items while making a positive impact on the community.
40 Rue Jean-de-la-Fontaine
16th Arrondissement
December 4 to 12
Metro – Jasmin
12. Bastille Christmas Market: A Festive Haven for Shoppers and Food Lovers
The Bastille Christmas Market attracts both holiday shoppers and food enthusiasts. Situated in the lively Bastille neighborhood, this market offers a variety of stalls filled with everything from French delicacies to handcrafted decorations and artisanal products.
As you stroll through the market, enjoy hot mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, all while browsing a selection of goods from local artisans, designers, and creators. The market provides a wonderful opportunity to sample seasonal treats and find one-of-a-kind gifts.
Open from late November to early January, the Bastille Christmas Market is a perfect spot to embrace the festive season.
13. Swedish Christmas Market: A Taste of Sweden in Paris
This Christmas market, a tribute to Swedish culture, offers a delightful selection of Swedish arts, crafts, and glassware. Visitors can indulge in a variety of traditional Swedish foods, including pickled herring, smoked salmon, tart cranberry jam, and a spread of authentic bread, cakes, and chocolates.
Organized by the Friends of the Paris Swedish Church, which dates back to the early 1900s, this market brings a slice of Sweden to Paris each year.
Église Suedoise, 9 rue Médéric
17th Arrondissement
Early December
Metro – Sainte Sulpice
14. Père Noël Village at Place de Saint-Sulpice: A Holiday Delight
The Père Noël Village at Place de Saint-Sulpice offers a festive escape perfect for warming up your holiday spirit. Take a break from shopping and enjoy the lovely fountain, then step inside the Église Sainte-Sulpice. Inside, you’ll find Delacroix’s famous painting Jacob Wrestling with the Angel, a beautiful masterpiece to appreciate while you rest from the winter chill.
This market is a perfect way to enjoy the seasonal charm of the 6th Arrondissement, combining art, history, and holiday cheer.
Place de Saint-Sulpice
6th Arrondissement
Metro – Courcelles
15. La Marché de Noël Écologique et Solidaire: A Sustainable Christmas Market
This year, opt for eco-friendly, ethical, and meaningful gifts at La Marché de Noël Écologique et Solidaire. The market features a wide array of vendors offering gardening kits, organic wines, zero-waste cosmetics, medicinal plants, handmade crafts, clothing, and 100% ethical fashion accessories.
It’s the perfect place to find gifts that support sustainability while celebrating the holiday season with purpose.
1 Carrefour de Longchamp, Bois de Boulogne
16th Arrondissement
December 11 to 19
16. Christmas Market at Place d’Italie: A Cozy Holiday Experience
Despite its smaller size with around twenty chalets, the Christmas market at Place d’Italie offers a delightful and festive atmosphere in the 13th Arrondissement. It’s an ideal stop for those looking for a more intimate holiday shopping experience.
The market provides a range of seasonal goods, from artisanal crafts to festive treats, making it a charming destination for visitors wanting to enjoy the spirit of the season.
Place d’Italie
13th Arrondissement
17. Trocadero Christmas Market: A Scenic Holiday Escape
The Trocadero Christmas Market offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. The market’s festive atmosphere is enhanced by the iconic backdrop, making it an excellent spot to enjoy the season’s charm.
In addition to the market stalls filled with holiday treats and gifts, rumors suggest a temporary ice rink may also be set up, adding an extra layer of winter magic to the experience.
Place d’Italie
Metro – Trocadero
18. Greenwitch Christmas Village: A Celebration of Ecofeminism
This December, join the Terre-étoiles organization at the Recyclerie for a special weekend event on December 18 and 19. The Greenwitch Christmas village brings together ecofeminism, storytelling, and herbalism, offering a blend of workshops and activities that celebrate both the season and the power of environmental activism.
It’s the perfect chance to explore themes of feminism and sustainability while enjoying a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re learning from herbalists or participating in eco-focused workshops, this event offers a meaningful way to celebrate the holidays with a purpose.
83 Boulevard Ornano
18th Arrondissement
December 18 to 19
Metro – Porte de Clignancourt
19. A Japanese Christmas Market in Paris
Jipango, a Franco-Japanese cultural association in Paris, brings a touch of Japan to the city each December. Their annual Christmas market presents a delightful blend of French and Japanese traditions, offering an experience that stands out for its serene atmosphere and distinct offerings.
With forty stalls, the market features a selection of Japanese arts and crafts, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience craftsmanship from across the islands. In addition to the beautiful handmade goods, attendees can enjoy an array of Japanese culinary delights, from rich teas to savory dishes and sweet treats.
Location:
10 Passage Choiseul, 2nd Arrondissement
Dates: November 28 to December 1
Metro: Pyramides
