Top 10 things to do in Paris during Christmas

Christmas bells are ringing, and travelers worldwide are already making plans; many may have Paris on their bucket list to celebrate the festive season in style. Paris becomes a traveler’s dreamy festive destination during the Christmas season, attracting people from around the globe with traditional Christmas markets, sparkling streets, seasonal food and spectacular decorations. Travelers visiting France’s capital in December 2026 can enjoy many activities, from ice skating to seeing the Eiffel Tower and more.

From a romantic getaway to a family holiday, Paris offers plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas 2026, from visiting the Christmas market and the Tuileries Garden to seeing the Christmas Tree at Galeries Lafayette, going ice skating, and more. In this listicle, we will take a look at ten things one could do in Paris during Christmas 2026:

#10. Seeing Christmas lights on Champs-Élysées

Les Illuminations des Champs-Élysées, also known as Christmas Lights on the Champs-Élysées, is an annual winter tradition held in Paris during the Christmas holiday season.

The city wraps 400 plane trees along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in thousands of shimmering golden lights, turning the two-kilometer-long avenue into a glowing path. This year, the lights will run from November 22 to January 4, 2027. Travelers can take the best photos and enjoy a memorable walk.

#9. Visit the Tuileries Christmas Market

La Magie de Noël, also known as the Tuileries Christmas Market, is considered Paris’s largest holiday market, which runs from November 14 to January 3, 2027.

The large market is set up inside the Jardin des Tuileries between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. Entry to the market is free, and recreational activities such as carnival rides, ice skating, food and more are paid.

#8. Ice skating at the Grand Palais

Another exciting winter activity that could be a fun experience for individuals is ice skating. Tourists can skate under the jaw-dropping glass roof of the Grand Palais.

The yearly Grand Palais des Glaces attraction runs from December 12 to January 6, 2027, offering visitors a memorable experience. Travelers can take the best pictures during the experience.

#7. Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette

Another major attraction that draws visitors annually is the giant Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette, which hangs under the famous stained-glass dome of the historic department store in Paris.

Visitors must see the spectacle, as it is a must-see attraction hosted only in Paris and has been featured every year since 1976, with the store choosing different themes and hiring the best artists to decorate it each year. It’s totally free to visit and take some memorable pictures, creating a lifelong memory.

#6. Witness the Eiffel Tower at night

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognized landmarks in the world, and millions of visitors come to Paris just to see it in person. However, its beauty and grace are highlighted by its lighting, making it breathtaking.

Thus, if you are in Paris to celebrate Christmas, visiting the Eiffel Tower at night to see its lighting display and beautiful surroundings is worth it.

#5. Seine River cruise

One experience tourists could have in Paris is taking a cruise along the Seine River, which could take them past famous landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.

While seeing the city’s landmarks, one could also enjoy excellent dining, as some cruises offer special holiday dining experiences as part of their package.

#4. La Défense Christmas Market

The largest festive attraction in Paris, La Défense Christmas Market, is set to return from November 12 to December 31. Located at Parvis de La Défense, the market features more than 300 wooden chalets spread over more than 15,000 square meters.

Tourists can buy Christmas gifts at great prices for friends and family. This year, one of the market’s biggest attractions is Le Sommet, a new festive zone featuring a 504-square-meter ice rink, live music, activities, Santa Claus meeting kids, food stalls and more. The traditional market wraps up on December 31, while Le Sommet will run until January 3, 2027.

#3. Visit Montmartre

After seeing Paris, you could also visit its charming neighborhood, Montmartre, which becomes even more beautiful during the Christmas season. The site is best known for its historic buildings, cobbled streets, cafes and heritage.

Additionally, the hilltop takes you away from the busy streets and closer to nature. That said, you must visit Montmartre to make your Paris trip more special.

#2. Explore the French food

Christmas is the best time for travelers who love different tastes to try French food. You can have roasted meat, pastries and cakes, oysters, and much more.

They can get the best of these foods at food stalls and cozy cafes around the busy city, offering visitors an authentic French taste, and exploring the food is an entire ball game.

#1. Spend Christmas Day on the streets of Paris

Christmas Day is the most eventful day in Paris, and the streets will be jam-packed with lights and decorations; markets will be full of activities to do and explore.

Taking photographs at the Eiffel Tower, walking along the riverbanks and exploring the decorated sights would create a perfect festive vibe. However, it’s important to check the opening hours of museums, shops and restaurants, as many remain closed on Christmas Day.