If you think Paris is magical the rest of the year, just wait until the holiday season. Glittering lights, the smell of mulled wine, and rows of wooden stalls turn the city into a festive dream. Visiting a Paris Christmas market (or three) is hands down one of the best things to do here in winter, and we’re about to show you exactly which ones are worth going to!
Klook Tip: Cash is your best friend when visiting Christmas markets! Not every stall takes cards, so small bills and coins are handy.
Location
There are several Christmas markets sprinkled all throughout the city, but some of the best ones are clustered close together. We’ve broken down our top Paris Christmas markets located in or near the city center and can easily be combined in one day below.
- Tuileries Garden (1st arrondissement)
- Hôtel de Ville (4th arrondissement)
- Notre-Dame (4th/5th arrondissement)
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement)
If you’re flying straight into Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris’ primary international airport, you can pre-arrange your airport transfer to save time and avoid the stress of figuring out transport in the cold. Or, if you’re visiting from other parts of France or nearby countries, a France Eurail Pass is an easy and comfortable way to get around.
🎄Paris Christmas Markets
1. Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (Jardin des Tuileries)
Photo Credit: Sortira Paris
Let’s start off strong. This one’s not just a classic Paris Christmas market, it’s the biggest one in the city. Located right in the historic Tuileries Garden near the Louvre, this festive village is packed with more than 100 wooden chalets selling local crafts, toys, ornaments, and French holiday treats (try the raclette, it’s melty cheese magic 🧀).
With how massive this market is, there are different activities to do. Apart from the stalls,you'll also find a small carnival with a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and an ice skating rink. If you’re only in Paris for a short time, consider pairing your Tuileries visit with a Seine River Cruise to hit two major experiences in one day.
🕒 When: Mid-November – early January
2. La Défense Christmas Market
Photo Credit: Gardel Bertrand, Hemis.fr via AFP
If you want to see the modern side of Paris all lit up for the holidays, this one’s for you. La Défense is the city’s business district, and during the holiday season, it transforms into a huge open-air village with over 350 stalls.
This is also one of the bigger Christmas markets in the city, so there’s loads to check out. You’ll find everything from winter clothing to international street food (German bratwurst, Spanish churros, Alsatian wine, just to name a few 😋)
In traveling between markets in the city centre, the best way to go is via the metro. Otherwise, it would be a pretty strong leg day.🦵To make hitting the best spots in Paris more convenient, it might be worth your while to do a hop-on hop-off bus tour. You can easily jump between neighborhoods while staying warm and seeing the sights along the way.
🕒 When: Mid-November – late December
3. Notre-Dame Christmas Market
Photo Credit: Experience Gift
This market is smaller and more artisanal, but that’s part of its charm. Just across the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, this Paris Christmas market focuses on quality over quantity. Think handmade crafts, gourmet goodies, and mulled wine.
It’s also less crowded than some of the bigger markets, so it’s a good pick if you want something slower-paced. In less touristy markets like this one, access to public Wi-Fi may be spotty — if there is at all! We recommend having a Europe eSIM on hand to help you navigate the City of Lights’ streets and public transportation.
🕒 When: Mid-December – around Christmas Eve
4. Montmartre Christmas Market
Photo Credit: GUIZIOU FRANCK _ HEMIS.FR _ via AFP
If you’re in Montmartre (the historic district at the northern part of Paris) to visit the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a Christmas market just below it! This Christmas market is smaller than others but full of charm and great local food. You’ll find classic French treats like vin chaud (mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, and regional cheeses.
Klook Tip: Go early evening for golden-hour views from Sacré-Cœur, then pop down to the market to warm up. If you want to explore Montmartre at your own pace, a private car rental with driver is an option for a hassle-free way to move around the hilly area.
🕒 When: Early December – around New Year
5. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market
Photo Credit: Sortira Paris
This one feels a little more upscale, but in a good way. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés market is perfect if you want a cozy Paris Christmas market with artisan gifts, gourmet foods, and fewer crowds. It’s great for picking up luxury French chocolates, handmade candles, or fancy soaps for souvenirs. It’s also surrounded by some of the city’s most famous cafés, ideal for a post-market espresso stop.
Now, if you’re thinking about taking a day trip from Paris this festive season, a Mont Saint-Michel guided tour is worth considering. It’s one of the most iconic places in France, and a trip to the country won’t be the same without it.
🕒 When: Early December – early January
6. Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market
Photo Credit: May Cause Wanderlust
This centrally located market (literally right in front of Paris City Hall) is small but mighty. With the Hôtel de Ville all lit up, a lively carousel, an ice-skating rink, kid-friendly workshops. If you’re into history and architecture, the area itself features plenty of Renaissance buildings and displays about Paris’ storied past.
🕒 When: Early December – early January
What to eat at a Paris Christmas Market
Let’s be real: half the reason to go to a Paris Christmas market is the food. Keep an eye out for:
- Vin chaud (mulled wine): Red wine, spices, sugar, and citrus. Warm and festive.
- Raclette and tartiflette: Melty alpine cheese on potatoes, bacon, and onions.
- Crepes: Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong!
- Churros and waffles: Covered in Nutella or sugar. Perfect street snacks.
- Regional sausages: Especially if you’re visiting the La Défense Christmas Market!
Whether you’re planning a full-on holiday getaway or just popping by for a winter weekend, visiting a Paris Christmas market (or several!) is a must. European Christmas markets have their own distinct charms, and if you’re reading this, consider it your sign to find out for yourself. 😉
So grab your scarf, charge your phone, and get ready to sip, snack, and shop your way through Paris this holiday season. Joyeux Noël! 🎁✨
👀 Before you go!
If you’re looking for itinerary inspiration or new experiences to check out, these blogs may come in useful:
FAQs
What date are Paris Christmas markets?
Most Paris Christmas markets open in mid to late November and run through early January, though dates vary slightly. The Tuileries and La Défense markets often open earliest (around mid-November), while others like Notre-Dame start closer to mid-December. Always check specific dates, nearer the holidays, before your visit.
Which Christmas market is the best in Paris?
It depends on your vibe! For size and variety, Tuileries Garden is a favorite. For a more local, cozy feel, try Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Notre-Dame. If you want a massive festive village with international food, La Défense delivers big time.
Is Christmas in Paris a good idea?
Absolutely! Paris is magical in December, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and fewer crowds than summer. Just pack warm layers, plan your market visits smartly, and you’re in for a holiday to remember.
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