There’s nothing like Christmas in Paris. The iconic city is illuminated with Christmas lights and wrapped in a festive glow. Whether you’re hoping to witness the glittering lights of the infamous Eiffel Tower in Paris at Christmas or soak in the enchanting charm of the city’s cosy streets, there are plenty of festive things to get you in the Christmas spirit.
We’ve put together a list of the best Christmas markets in Paris, France, to help you plan the perfect festive break in one of the world’s most magical cities.
How to get from the UK to Paris This Christmas
Planning a Christmas getaway in Paris? Enjoy a stress-free journey onboard our ferries to France. Our closest port to Paris is Dieppe, just a 2.5-hour drive from the capital through the picturesque French countryside. Taking around 4 hours, our Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossings run regularly and offer a range of fantastic onboard facilities, including duty free shopping.
Our Dunkirk and Calais ports in France are also within a 3-hour drive of Paris. Travel by car, embark on your holiday the moment you board, and bring everything you need with no luggage restrictions! Whether you’re planning a festive romantic getaway or a trip to Disneyland Paris with the kids this Christmas, enjoy a stress-free journey with DFDS.
Discover the Best Paris Christmas Markets
Exploring the many festive Christmas markets that pop up throughout the city is one of the best things to do in Paris at Christmas. With a glass of mulled wine in hand, spend your days combing through the artisan stalls filled with handcrafted gifts and treats, or sample some of the best festive food this magical city has to offer.
When do Paris Christmas markets start? Paris Christmas markets typically begin mid-November and run until late December or early January. Each market will have varying start dates, so check online before you visit.
Where are the Christmas markets in Paris? There are Christmas markets dotted throughout the whole city. Below, we’ve included the top markets you won’t want to miss.
La Défense Christmas Village
When: Thursday 13th November - Sunday 28th December 2025
The La Défense Christmas Village is the biggest market in Paris and a must-visit if you’re looking for a lively market full of things to do. Nestled in Paris’s business district, you’ll enjoy the festivities under the skyscrapers and dazzling city lights.
There are over 200 chalets, selling everything from artisanal products made by locals to regional wines. Head to the food court to enjoy delicious delicacies like raclette, crepes and tartiflette while you soak in the lively atmosphere. There’s also a DJ playing your favourite Christmas tunes and plenty of family-friendly activities if you’re visiting with kids.
Notre-Dame Christmas Market
When: Friday 28th November – Thursday 25th December 2025
Head to Square Viviani to wander through the Christmas markets in the shadow of one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, Notre-Dame. The historic square is decorated for the festive season, featuring twinkling lights, Christmas trees and cosy stalls selling handcrafted goods and local artisanal food.
With the backdrop of Notre-Dame’s soaring medieval towers, enjoy a steaming glass of vin chaud and soak in the authentic atmosphere. As a smaller market with 40 carefully-selected chalets, you’ll experience an intimate atmosphere that captures the cosy essence of Christmas.
The Place des Abbesses Christmas Market
When: Saturday 22nd November – Sunday 28th December
Located in Montmartre, visit the Place des Abbesses Christmas market for a cosy, intimate setting on the cobbled streets of Paris. Kids will enjoy the dazzling colours of the carousel and regular visits from Père Noël on the weekends, while adults can enjoy the lavish champagne bar.
Wander through the winding hills of Montmartre before exploring the charming chalets selling plenty of Christmas goodies. Sample decadent cuisine, from delicious French cheese to hot roasted chestnuts, and soak in the festive atmosphere. It’s an ideal market to visit if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit and avoid the crowds filling the larger markets.
Champ de Mars Christmas Market
When: Yet to be confirmed, but likely early December 2025 to January 2026
Embrace the festive season at the Champ de Mars Christmas Market, a bustling market beneath the Eiffel Tower. It’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular Christmas markets, with its central location and proximity to major landmarks adding an extra sprinkle of Parisian magic. Explore over 100 stalls selling a range of handcrafted items, from decorations to children’s toys, and stop to enjoy a waffle or a glass of mulled wine as you admire the setting. Visit the ice rink for an unforgettable skate beneath the Eiffel Tower.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market
When: Tuesday 25th November 2025 – Monday 1st January 2026
St Germain-des-Prés is a must-visit area during any trip to Paris, but it truly dazzles at Christmas. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market features beautifully decorated chalets selling a range of arts, crafts and local food. Beyond the market, enjoy attractions like Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the glow of the twinkly festive lights. Whether you want to pay a visit to Santa’s Grotto or indulge in homemade treats and mulled wine, visit the Saint-Germain-des-Prés market to celebrate the season and revel in an authentic Parisian Christmas setting.
La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden
When: Yet to be confirmed, but it typically runs from mid-November 2025 to early January 2026
Located in the historical Tuileries Garden, visit La Magie de Noël Christmas Market for a festive wonderland experience. Spend your time wandering through the Artisan Village browsing the vast range of Christmas goodies, or soak in the enchanting atmosphere from above with a thrilling ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. The kids will love everything the fairground has to offer, from classic merry-go-rounds to a puppet theatre, and there’s also an ice rink for all ages to enjoy. Don’t forget to sample the delicious local delicacies after a busy day of festivities!
Gift Inspiration to Bring Home from Your Paris Christmas Trip
A Christmas break in Paris wouldn’t be complete without Christmas shopping. Whether you want to treat your loved ones to couture gifts from France’s top designers or locally crafted goodies from the markets, spread joy this Christmas with the following gifts:
Chocolates
Macarons
Hand-made toys and decorations
Artisanal candles
Clothing
Local wine
