In Paris for Christmas

Dreaming of escaping for a few days and experiencing the magic of Christmas in one of the most romantic cities in the world? What a great idea!

Starting at the end of November, restaurateurs, shopkeepers, hoteliers, and bakers all do their part to create a festive atmosphere. For the occasion, Paris gets all dressed up. More than ever, the City of Light carries its name, shimmering at every turn. There are a lot of seasonal activities catering to both families and romantic revellers. Here are a few of my must

Christmas Illuminated Champs Élysées

From the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, the famous Champs Élysées Avenue puts on an enchanting spectacle, adorned with scintillating light installations that promise all manners of celebration. Throughout the holiday season, Les Champs, as Parisians love to call them, is the place where everyone comes to celebrate, culminating with the traditional New Year’s Eve countdown.

Paris from the top of la Grande Roue

© Josée Noiseux

Located at the entrance of Jardin des Tuileries, majestic and glimmering with light, the Ferris wheel ornaments Place de la Concorde and offers the best view of Christmassy Paris.

Christmas window shopping

The spirit of Christmas also takes hold of Parisian boutiques, where year after year shopkeepers work intensively to create dazzling window displays.

I love the Magical Christmas Journey theme created by Burberry for Au Printemps store.

From one window to the next, they’ve recreated a young boy and his teddy’s journey from London to Paris. At once unbelievably chic, and a magical reminder of our childhood dreams.

At Le Bon Marché, Santa’s reindeers are the shining stars.

© Le Bon Marché

All dressed in bells and shimmering red, they have invaded the windows as well as La Grande Épicerie de Paris‘ delicious pastries. A wonderful way of celebrating the holiday magic.

With Monster Christmas, Les Galeries Lafayette immerse us in a fun and whimsical universe. To the delight of children and adults alike, monsters have quite literally taken the store by storm. They are hidden everywhere, and have quite a few surprises up their sleeves for you. Keep your eyes peeled! You’ll find the legendary Christmas tree – 25 metres-high – upside-down, below the spectacular dome.

Skating in Paris

The holidays offer the perfect opportunity to put on your skates and let yourself be carried away by the carols, with the city as your mesmerizing background. It’s a fun activity, all the more pleasant in the evening. Here are my favourite spots:

The most spectacular: Tour Eiffel rink .

For a view of the fountains and romantic carousel : Paris City Hall rink .

For the enchanting surroundings: Grand Palais des Glaces rink, under La Nef .

To skate on the world’s most famous avenue, surrounded by illuminated trees: Champs Élysées Christmas village rink .

 Have a wonderful time, and happy holidays!

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