Explore the top things to do at Christmas time in Paris, France 2024. From Christmas markets to holiday lights, Paris has plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy. Whether you’re walking along the Champs-Élysées or visiting famous landmarks, the city is full of festive spirit during the holidays.
The big Christmas tree in Galleries Lafayette Haussmann
This year’s Christmas display at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann (2024/25) is themed around a magical “Christmas Beehive.” This design will feature bees as the central characters, preparing for an extraordinary Christmas under a giant tree. Decorated with winter flowers and amber tones, evoking a warm, festive atmosphere.
Visitors can marvel at 11 different scenes of the Christmas Beehive along the Boulevard Haussmann window displays. From the festival of lights to the Queen’s banquet to the Winter Garden, each window brims with magic. In these scenes, the bees are busy getting ready for Christmas Eve and the Queen is making herself look beautiful. The scout bees are handling the lights, and the worker bees are hard at work in the kitchen. Every bee has a special role to ensure the Christmas Beehive is ready on time.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is located at 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris. Accessible via Metro via lines 7, 9, and 12. Chaussée d’Antin and the La Fayette stations are the closest.
The Coupole, L’Homme and Maison stores will be open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 8.30pm, and Sundays/Public holidays from 11am to 8pm. The Gourmet store will be open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 9.30pm. Sundays and public holidays from 11am to 8pm. Closed on December 25th & 1 January 1st.
Last Year’s Design (2023)
2023’s Christmas display was designed by Charles de Vilmorin, who created a magical and poetic festive celebration called “My Dream Christmas.” The tree stood beneath the iconic dome with dream-like characters floated among the decorations, including ethereal figures and colourful ornaments that gave the display an otherworldly feel. The design featured a blend of classic Christmas tones with a modern, artistic twist, showcasing de Vilmorin’s unique vision of a festive wonderland.
PARIS ON A BUDGET 3 DAY TRAVEL ITINERARY (CHRISTMAS EDITION)
Our 3 Day Budget-Friendly Christmas in Paris Travel Itinerary was designed to make exploring the city easy and affordable. We’ve planned out three full days of activities, showing you how to get around using the metro, with routes included, or how long it takes to walk, and a daily budget breakdown so you know exactly what you’ll be spending. You’ll also get access to all the links to travel resources you need, and the best part? A custom Google Maps map with all the spots pinned for you to follow along stress-free.
⬇️ SOUND ON ⬇️
Christmas lights Paris
Dazzling Christmas lights start appearing all over Paris in mid-November and continue to brighten the city through early January.
Known as the Paris Illuminations, these lights come in many styles. You’ll find stunning displays on the Champs Élysées and other famous avenues, along with decorations in hidden passages and large squares. Over 150 streets across the city twinkle with festive lights, and the department store windows showcase impressive displays.
But, In recent years, the beautiful lights and decorations around Place Vendôme including the Ritz Paris, Rue Saint-Honoré, Rue de la Paix, and Rue Royale have become even more extravagant. This area now has its own magical atmosphere that rivals the famous decorations on the Champs-Élysées.
Paris Christmas Window Displays 2024
Paris’s five largest department stores, known as the grands magasins, go all out with their amazing Christmas window displays! These displays feature animated scenes filled with twinkling lights, festive music, cheerful Santas, beautifully decorated Christmas trees, cuddly teddy bears, and wrapped gifts. Resource: Paris Discovery Guide.
The stores—BHV Marais, La Samaritaine, Printemps Haussmann, Le Bon Marché, and Galeries Lafayette—unveil their spectacular windows starting in early to mid-November, just as the city begins to sparkle with holiday decorations.
BHV Marais
BHV Marais department store is located at 52 Rue de Rivoli, right near the Hôtel de Ville metro station (lines 1 and 11). Alternatively, Pont Marie (line 7) is a 7-minute walk across the Seine, making it convenient for exploring Île Saint-Louis. This year’s experience is set to be a magical forest filled with stunning plants and animals, opening on November 8 at 5 PM.
La Samaritaine
La Samaritaine is located at 19 Rue de la Monnaie, with the closest metro station being Pont-Neuf (Line 7), just a couple of minutes’ walk away. Alternatively, you can take Line 1 to Louvre-Rivoli, about a 5-minute walk, providing quick access to the Louvre. Enjoy a palace of gourmet treats and Willy Wonka-themed fun to celebrate the new film, running from November 8 to January 9.
Printemps Haussmann
Printemps Haussmann is located at 64 Boulevard Haussmann, with the closest metro station being Havre-Caumartin (Lines 3 and 9), just a few steps away. Alternatively, Saint-Lazare (Lines 3, 12, 13, and 14) is about a 5-minute walk and serves as a major hub with connections to multiple metro lines and regional trains. This year’s holiday windows feature animated birds delivering festive greetings from around the globe, opening November 9 at 5:30 PM.
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche is located at 24 Rue de Sèvres, with the closest metro station being Sèvres-Babylone (Lines 10 and 12), just a short walk away. Alternatively, Saint-Sulpice (Line 4) is about a 10-minute walk and close to the lively Saint-Germain neighbourhood. This year, giant fluffy bears in golden jackets will entertain visitors across four special Christmas windows, opening on November 10 at 5 PM.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Galeries Lafayette is located at 40 Boulevard Haussmann, with the closest metro station being Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette (Lines 7 and 9), conveniently situated right next to the department store. Alternatively, Opéra (Lines 3, 7, and 8) is about a 5-minute walk away, ideal for exploring the Opéra district. In addition to the fantastic Christmas windows, don’t miss the giant Christmas tree (pictured above), complete with a glass walkway for perfect selfies! Open from November 15 to December 31.
Christmas decorations Paris
One of my favourite places to see Christmas decorations in Paris is Rue Saint-Honoré. This popular street is filled with high-end stores, luxury boutiques, and designer shops, all decorated with festive lights, garlands, and ornaments. The twinkling lights on the trees create a magical atmosphere.
Rue Saint-Honoré is also a great place for shopping. You can find designer handbags and high-end fashion, with special holiday deals and promotions during the Christmas season.
In addition to the beautiful decorations on Rue Saint-Honoré, check out the annual Christmas display by Christian Dior on their flagship building. Last year, they showcased lovely angel wings that really stood out. For the latest updates on their holiday decorations, you can visit Dior’s official site.
The closest metro stations to Rue Saint-Honoré are: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), just a few minutes’ walk from the eastern end of Rue Saint-Honoré. Alternatively, Tuileries (Line 1) is about a 5-minute walk away, providing quick access to the gardens and the Louvre.
Disneyland Paris Christmas
For a more whimsical day out, book Disneyland Paris Tickets – only a short train ride from Paris city center and perfect for the whole family!
To travel between Disneyland Paris and the Paris city center, you’ll take the RER A train. The RER is a regional express train system, and the A line runs directly from the Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station at Disneyland to several stops in central Paris, including Châtelet-Les Halles and Charles de Gaulle – Étoile. The journey takes around 35-40 minutes.
Disneyland Paris ticket prices vary based on the season and whether you choose single-park or multi-park access:
1-Day Dated Ticket: Starts around €56 for 1 park or €81 for 2 parks (low season).
Multi-Day Tickets: Begin at €168 for 2 days and 1 park, or €211 for 2 days and 2 parks.
Annual Passes: Options range from €259 to €719 depending on perks
The low season at Disneyland Paris generally falls between mid-January and mid-March as well as mid-September to mid-November. These periods avoid major holidays and school vacation times, offering the cheapest ticket prices. Midweek visits also tend to be less expensive during these off-peak times.
Christmas at Parc Astérix 2024-2025
Parc Astérix is back to celebrate the magic of Christmas during the 2024 holiday season. From the 21st of December 2024 to the 5th of January 2025, you can enjoy festive activities inspired by a Gaulish Christmas at the theme park. You can look forward to an ice rink, sledding, a trail of lights, a hidden tavern, and magical shows!
The park is just over an hours drive from the centre of Paris and public transportation is available too. To get to Parc Astérix from central Paris, you can take the RER B train from any central station like Châtelet-Les Halles, Gare du Nord, or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame. Board the RER B train towards Robinson or Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse. Get off at Charles de Gaulle – Étoile: Stay on the train for about 30 minutes. Transfer to Bus 50: Once at the Charles de Gaulle – Étoile station, follow the signs to the bus terminal and catch Bus 50, which goes directly to Parc Astérix. Check out the RER app for more info.
Christmas Markets Paris
La Magie de Noël in the Tuileries Gardens
The Tuileries Gardens in Paris hosts a fantastic Christmas market with many vendors selling holiday gifts, decorations, and tasty food. You can enjoy comforting French favourites like raclette, which is warm melted cheese over potatoes, and tartiflette, a rich dish made with cheese, bacon, and potatoes. For something sweet, there are freshly made crêpes with a variety of toppings. To keep warm on chilly winter nights, grab a cup of spiced mulled wine (vin chaud).
With its festive atmosphere, sparkling lights, and a large Christmas tree, the market is a great place for holiday shopping, family outings, or a romantic evening walk.
The closest metro station to the Tuileries Gardens (right next to the Louvre) is Tuileries (Line 1), located just a short walk from the garden entrance. Alternatively, Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7) is about a 10-minute walk away, providing access to both the Louvre and the gardens.
Christmas decorations at the Village Royale Paris
This Christmas season, Village Royal in Paris is set to host a magical atmosphere with stunning decorations and events. While specific details about the 2024/2025 festivities have yet to be fully unveiled, it is expected that they will continue their tradition of impressive displays, following last year’s giant balloon installation.
In addition to unique decorations, visitors can look forward to a festive ambiance filled with lights, holiday cheer, and potentially some seasonal events or performances. Paris generally embraces a vibrant Christmas market scene, with numerous markets popping up around the city, enhancing the holiday experience.
The closest metro station to the Village Royale is Madeleine (Lines 8, 12, and 14), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau (Lines 1 and 13) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, providing access to the famous avenue.
The Christmas Market at Hôtel de Ville Paris
The Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market for 2024 promises to be a magical experience with its stunning light show illuminating the neo-Renaissance façade. The building will be lit up with vibrant projections, featuring snowflakes dancing across a brilliant blue background, adding to the festive atmosphere.
While the specific 2024 dates haven’t been fully confirmed yet, the market typically runs from late November until the end of December. Last year’s market began on 28th November and ended on 31st December, so you can expect a similar timeline this year
The market offers a wide variety of food options, from traditional French treats to international flavours. You’ll find an oyster bar, along with staples like crêpes, gaufres (waffles), and hearty kebabs. Warm up with vin chaud (mulled wine) or hot chocolate, or enjoy local beers
Aside from the market stalls, there’s a classic carousel for children to enjoy, set against the backdrop of the illuminated Hôtel de Ville. The area is also a great starting point to explore nearby landmarks like the Le Marais neighbourhood and the Musée Carnavalet.
The closest metro station to the Hôtel de Ville is The closest metro station to Hôtel de Ville is Hôtel de Ville itself, which serves Line 1 and Line 11. Alternatively, Rambuteau (Line 11) – Approximately a 7-minute walk, connecting you to the Centre Pompidou.
Montmartre Paris Christmas: A Village in the heart of the City
The neighbourhood of Montmartre is a lovely spot to visit during Christmas. Stroll through its charming streets, where festive decorations and twinkling lights create a warm atmosphere. Check out the Christmas market at Place des Abbesses for artisanal gifts and tasty treats like hot chocolate.
Don’t forget to head up to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where entrance is free. It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., so you can enjoy amazing views of the city all decked out for the holidays. While you’re there, explore the local shops for unique gifts and crafts.
Treat yourself to some seasonal pastries at the cafés—there’s nothing like a warm slice of yule log cake (bûche de Noël) to get you in the holiday spirit! This chocolate or coffee-flavoured cake is shaped like a log and often decorated with frosting to resemble bark, along with festive touches like meringue mushrooms or powdered sugar to mimic snow.
The closest metro station to Montmartre is Anvers (Line 2), which is located near the base of the hill. Alternatively, Pigalle (Lines 2 and 12) – About a 10-minute walk, close to the lively Pigalle area and a popular access point to Montmartre.
Macarons
Ladurée Palais Royal
Bonjour, macaroon lovers! If you’re in Paris, make sure to visit Ladurée Palais Royal in the 8th arrondissement. This famous pastry shop is known for its delicious macarons and baked goods. The beautiful decor makes it feel like a royal experience. During Christmas, their decorations are stunning, both inside and outside the shop. Ladurée Palace Royal is also a great place to find gifts.
The closest metro station to Ladurée Palais Royal is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Pyramides (Lines 7 and 14) – About a 5-minute walk, providing access to various attractions in the area.
Pierre Hermé
We think that the salted caramel macarons from Pierre Hermé are a must-try – the perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of salt. They have other exciting flavours too! Here are a few of their top locations:
1. Located at 72 Rue Bonaparte. The closest metro station is Saint-Sulpice (Line 4), which is about a 6-minute walk away.
2. Located at 86 Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The closest metro station is George V (Line 1) – Approximately a 5-minute walk, providing easy access to the central area of the Champs-Élysées.
3. Located at 39 Av. de l’Opéra. The closest metro station is Opéra (Lines 3, 7, and 8), which is about a 5-minute walk away.
4. Located at 34 Rue de la Bastille. The closest metro station is Bastille (Lines 1, 5, and 8), which is about a 5-minute walk away.
5. Located at 18 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie. The closest metro station is Hôtel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11), which is about a 5-minute walk away.
Caffé Concerto
We highly recommend you try the Oreo and Red Velvet macarons at Caffè Concerto in the Carrousel by the Louvre (separate entrance from the Louvre).
The closest metro station to Caffé Concerto Carrousel by the Louvre is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Châtelet (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14) – Around a 10-minute walk, a major hub that connects several metro lines.
Paris where to Eat
Where to eat in Paris on a Budget
For a truly French meal, head to one of the city’s bouillons—classic brasseries offering affordable French cuisine. Our top picks? Bouillon République for its incredible escargots and steak frites. Or Bouillon Julien for its art nouveau decor. Bouillon Racine with its Art Nouveau decor in one of our favourite neighbourhoods of Paris i.e. Saint-Germain.
Must try cafes in Paris!
La Crème de Paris Notre-Dame
If you’re craving something sweet or savory, La Crème de Paris Notre-Dame has you covered with delicious waffles and crepes. For the best experience, grab a window seat with a stunning view of the Notre-Dame. The quality is top-notch, and the prices are surprisingly reasonable for such a touristy spot!
If you’re flying into Charles de Gaulle Airport, take the RER B train to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station. Once you step out, cross the street, and you’ll find La Crème de Paris Notre-Dame, a cosy spot right by Notre Dame with wonderful views while you enjoy their crêpes, waffles, or ice cream. They even have gluten-free options and boast an impressive 4.7 rating! It’s the perfect way to start your trip. You can also find them in Montmartre for more mouth-watering options.
KB Coffee Roasters
For some of the best coffee in Paris try KB Coffee Roasters (KB Café Shop) they also have delicious pastries and desserts for those of you with a sweet tooth. If they have it, definitely try the salted caramel and chocolate shortbread (factor in that it might not be available because their pastries are seasonal).
The closest metro station to KB Café Shop is Lamarck – Caulaincourt (Line 12), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Pigalle (Lines 2 and 12) – About a 15-minute walk, located near the lively Pigalle area and close to the Sacré-Cœur.
Cordelia’s Coffee and Flower Shop
For a true Parisian experience, grab a coffee from Cordelia’s Coffee and Flower Shop located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris—it’s a 20-minute walk, but their matcha and chai lattes in floral cups are worth it.
The closest metro station to Cordelia’s Flowers is Rue du Bac (Line 12), which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, located in the heart of the Saint-Germain area.
Café de l’Empire
For something more authentically French, try Café de l’Empire located in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, very close to Cordelia´s. A quaint bistro that makes delicious duck (canard) with potatoes cooked in the duck’s fat and one of the best crème brûlées we’ve ever tasted.
The closest metro station to Café de l’Empire is Rue du Bac (Line 12), which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) – Approximately a 12-minute walk, situated in the lively Saint-Germain area.
Le Train Bleu
Le Train Bleu is a historic restaurant located in the Gare de Lyon railway station in Paris. It was built in 1900, coinciding with the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) held in Paris that year. The restaurant is renowned for its stunning Belle Époque decor, featuring opulent details such as intricate frescoes, ornate woodwork, and lavish chandeliers. The interior showcases a rich palette of colours and elegant designs that reflect the grandeur of the early 20th century, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals. If you’re feeling fancy, definitely splurge on a meal or dessert at Le Train Bleu—it’s quite pricey, but the experience is unforgettable!
The closest metro station to Le Train Bleu is Gare de Lyon (Lines 1 and 14), which is right next to the restaurant. Alternatively, Bastille (Lines 1, 5, and 8) – About a 15-minute walk, connecting you to the lively Bastille area.
Le Cafe Marly Paris
Opened in 1993, Le Café Marly features a beautiful terrace for outdoor dining offering stunning views of the Louvre museum’s iconic glass pyramid and the surrounding courtyard. The café is known for its elegant decor, blending contemporary and classic styles, with a chic ambiance that complements its location.
The closest metro station to Le Café Marly is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, Tuileries (Line 1) – About a 10-minute walk, located near the Tuileries Gardens.
Maison Maison
Maison Maison – We love this spot along the banks of the Seine River, just past Pont Neuf and heading towards the Eiffel Tower, because of its lovely views of both the river and the tower.
The closest metro station to Maison Maison is Louvre-Rivoli (Line 1), which is approximately a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Pont Neuf (Line 7) – Approximately a 15-minute walk, located near the Seine River and Notre-Dame.
Ice Skating Rink Paris at Christmas
The Ice Skating Rink Gran Palais
The Grand Palais des Glaces is back in Paris for the 2024-2025 winter season after a 5-year break. Skaters and fans of the city will be excited to see this popular event return. The Grand Palais was closed for renovations, so the world’s largest indoor ice rink had been missing from Paris winters.
Now, everyone can enjoy this 6th edition, with a huge ice rink under the glass roof of the Grand Palais. Skaters of all ages, from beginners to pros, glide to music or even live DJ sets. There’s also a special section just for kids, and each year, a massive art piece is featured in the centre of the rink.
The closest metro station to the Grand Palais is Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau (Lines 1 and 13) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, located near the iconic Champs-Élysées. Alternatively, Alma-Marceau (Line 9), which is about a 10-minute walk away.
Marché de Noël de la Villette
La Villette in Paris will host the Marché de Noël de la Villette this year at Place de la Font aux Lions, running from the 23rd of November until the 29th of December. It’s going to be a charming Christmas village with a family-friendly atmosphere, focusing on festive fun and eco-friendly values, including an ecological skating rink
The Marché de Noël de la Villette will feature 30 chalets offering unique handcrafted gifts, beautiful decorations, and delicious treats—perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
The market will be open every day from 11am to 8:30pm and is easy to get to with metro and tram lines close by.
The closest metro station to Marché de Noël de la Villette is Porte de la Villette (Line 7), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Laumière (Line 5) – Approximately a 15-minute walk.
Christmas Gift Shops in Paris
Paris has some of the best Christmas gift shops. You can find unique gifts, tasty treats, and stylish items for everyone on your list.
Ladurée Palais Royal
You´ll find the most stunning Christmas decor and holiday treats at Ladurée Palais Royal. Grab some of their famous macarons or pick up a special gift from their festive collection. The closest metro station to Ladurée Palais Royal located in 16 Rue Royale is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7), which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Tuileries (Line 1) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, located near the beautiful Tuileries Gardens.
Il Etait une Fois
This Christmas store sells the most beautiful momentos and trinkets! The closest metro station to Il Était une Fois at 6 Rue Ferdinand is Ternes (Line 2), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, Porte Maillot (Line 1) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, providing access to the Palais des Congrès and nearby areas.
La Grande Épicerie de Paris
Here you’ll find everything from gourmet food to unique gifts, perfect for the festive season! Here you’ll find everything from gourmet food to unique gifts, perfect for the festive season! The closest metro station to La Grande Épicerie de Paris at 38 Rue de Sèvres is Sèvres-Babylone (Lines 10 and 12), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) – About a 10-minute walk, located in the lively Saint-Germain area.
Mon Sac de Noël
Explore Mon Sac de Noël for beautiful Christmas bags filled with festive goodies. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself this holiday season! The closest metro station to Mon Sac de Noël at 42 Rue Louise-Émilie de la Tour d’Auvergne is Philippe Auguste (Line 2), which is about a 7-minute walk, providing easy access to the area. Alternatively, Rue Saint-Maur (Line 3) – Around a 15-minute walk, offering connections to other parts of Paris.
BHV Marais
This department store has a wide selection of gifts, from home goods to fashion. During the holiday season, you’ll find plenty of festive items and decorations. The closest metro station to BHV Marais at 52 Rue de Rivoli is Hotel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Alternatively, Châtelet (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14) – About a 10-minute walk, a major hub connecting several metro lines.
Paris: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-Top Bus
We highly recommend hopping on the Paris: Sightseeing Night Tour by Open-Top Bus. If you’ve never seen the Moulin Rouge at night, you’re in for a treat—it’s absolutely stunning! Our two-hour tour wrapped up with the magical sparkling of the Eiffel Tower (more on that in point 10 below). The meeting point for the tour is conveniently located at 156 Av. des Champs-Élysées.
Alternatively enjoy a fancy moulin rouge show with dinner, or just moulin rouge show with champagne while watching the dancers and their amazing costumes. It’s a truly magical experience! Afterward, for a good laugh, check out a stand up comedy paris english or this one english stand up comedy paris that pokes fun at Parisian stereotypes—like their love for baguettes, berets, and fashion. It’s a great way to enjoy the mix of Parisian style and humor all in one night!
Speaking about dinner and champagne… If there is one thing we recommend for your next trip to Paris is paris evening cruise with dinner on river seine or if you’re not that hungry, try the Paris: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour and Seine River Cruise that doesn’t include dinner.
Eiffel Tower Light Show
The Eiffel Tower sparkles every hour on the hour during the evenings, and during the Christmas season, it becomes a magical sight. You can catch this show from various spots around the city, but being close to the tower gives you a unique view.
Must-Visit Photo Spots to see the Eiffel Tower Light Show!
Avenue de Camoëns – This spot allows for quiet Eiffel Tower shots, although you might have to wait your turn. The closest metro station to Avenue de Camoëns is Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, La Muette (Line 9) – About a 15-minute walk, located near the charming Passy district.
Place du Trocadéro – The Trocadéro offers some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, especially from the terrace. The sight of the tower framed by the rain-soaked surroundings can create a dramatic and picturesque atmosphere. The closest metro station to Place du Trocadéro is Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9), which is right at the square. Alternatively, Bois de Boulogne (Line 10) – Approximately a 15-minute walk, connecting to the beautiful park.
Rue de l’Université for another fantastic Eiffel Tower shot, though it can get crowded.. The closest metro station to 228 Rue de l’Université is École Militaire (Line 8), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel (RER C) – Around a 15-minute walk, giving easy access to the Eiffel Tower and the surrounding gardens.
Pont Alexandre III for stunning Seine River views, visit the Pont Alexandre III bridge and then head below to Port des Invalides for a quieter angle. This way, you can truly appreciate all the beautiful details of the bridge without the crowds. The closest metro station to Pont Alexandre III is Invalides (Lines 8 and 13), which is about a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, Alma-Marceau (Line 9) – Approximately a 10-minute walk, providing direct access to the Seine and nearby attractions.
Book Arc de Triomphe rooftop tickets for the best views from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. We highly recommend booking in advance to avoid long queues. As mentioned, the views of the city from here are spectacular, but keep in mind that it can get crowded, so be prepared for that when taking your shots. The closest metro station to the Arc de Triomphe is Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (Lines 1, 2, and 6), which is directly at the square where the Arc is located. Here are a few other nearby metro stations: George V (Line 1), Ternes (Line 2) and Argentine (Line 1).
Make the Most of Rainy Autumn Days in Paris with these indoor Activities
If the weather takes a turn, head indoors to explore Paris’s incredible museums. The Louvre museum is a must-see, though it can be overwhelming. A good way to navigate is by checking out maps and tips on their website before your visit. If you’re staying longer, the Paris Museum Pass skip the line gives you access to over 60 museums, including the Louvre, and helps you skip the lines.
Looking for more pretty art to look at? Be sure to visit Musée d’Orsay reservations and Musée Orangerie tickets to experience Monet’s masterpieces in a peaceful setting. The Musée de l’Orangerie is most famous for housing Claude Monet’s “Water Lilies” (Nymphéas) series. These eight large-scale paintings are displayed in two oval rooms specifically designed for them. They offer a panoramic view of Monet’s interpretation of his garden in Giverny.
For something a bit different, visit the montparnasse tower observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city or enjoy an affordable Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann!
Free Things to Do in Paris This Christmas
You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy Paris. Some of the best things to do here are free! Take a leisurely walk through Le Marais, Saint-Germain or Montmartre neighbourhoods. For panoramic views, head up to the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Rooftop—it’s free and offers an unbeatable view of Paris. The closest metro station to the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Rooftop is Havre-Caumartin (Lines 3 and 9), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Here are a few other nearby metro stations: Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette (Lines 7 and 9), Opéra (Lines 3, 7, and 8) and Grands Boulevards (Lines 8 and 9).
Shakespeare & Companyis a beloved English-language bookstore in Paris, known for its charming atmosphere and rich literary history. Located near the Notre-Dame Cathedral, it has been a haven for writers and readers since it first opened in 1919. The bookstore often hosts literary events, readings, and offers a cosy space for book lovers to explore classic and contemporary titles. Try to visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds. The closest metro station is Saint-Michel (RER B and Line 4), which is about a 5-minute walk away. Here are a few other nearby metro stations: Cluny – La Sorbonne (Line 10), Odéon (Lines 6 and 8) and Cité (Line 4).
If you’re a history buff, a stroll through Père Lachaise Cemetery will give you a peaceful glimpse into the final resting place of famous figures like Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde. The closest metro station to Père Lachaise Cemetery is Père Lachaise (Line 2), which is about a 5-minute walk from the cemetery entrance. Here are a few other nearby metro stations: Philippe Auguste (Line 2), Buzenval (Line 9) and Ménilmontant (Line 2).
Check out these related posts that you might enjoy!
Alternatively check out this post Christmas in Madrid If you’re planning to visit this Spanish capital during the festive season. Stay tuned: We’ll soon be posting a blog post on our Top 10 Destinations to Experience Christmas in Europe.
If you’re planning to visit Paris this autumn, we highly recommend checking out Paris in Autumn: Your Complete Travel Guide! or Best Places To Go in Autumn in Europe.
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