Organizing a vacation in Paris during Christmas and New Year’s requires some planning to make the most of the festive season. Here’s how you can do it:
Accommodation Book Early:
Paris is a popular destination for the holidays, so it’s crucial to book your accommodation well in advance. Consider staying in central areas like Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or near Champs-Élysées to be close to holiday events.
Types of Accommodation: You can choose from luxury hotels, boutique hotels, or vacation rentals. Many hotels offer special holiday packages, including festive meals and events.
Transportation Flights:
Book your flights early to secure the best deals. Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) are the main airports.
Local Transport: The Paris Metro and buses operate during the holidays, but services may be limited on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite travel pass for unlimited travel.
Holiday Activities Christmas Markets:
Visit the famous Christmas markets like those at Champs-Élysées or La Défense. Enjoy festive treats, mulled wine, and shop for gifts.
Ice Skating
Many locations, such as Hôtel de Ville and Tuileries Garden, have outdoor ice rinks set up during the holiday season.
Holiday Lights: Stroll along the
Champs-Élysées and other iconic streets to see the spectacular holiday light displays. The Galleries Lafayette also has a famous Christmas window display.
Festive Dining Christmas Eve (Réveillon):
Many Parisian restaurants offer special Réveillon menus on Christmas Eve. Book a table at a traditional French restaurant or try something unique like a Seine River dinner cruise.
New Year’s Eve (Saint-Sylvestre): Celebrate with a lavish dinner, followed by a party. Some restaurants and hotels offer special New Year’s Eve packages that include dinner, drinks, and entertainment.
Bakeries and Pâtisseries: Don’t miss out on holiday treats like bûche de Noël (Yule log) and galette des rois (King’s cake).
Christmas and New Year’s Day Midnight Mass:
Attend Midnight Mass at
Notre-Dame Cathedral or Sacre-Coeur Basilica for a unique cultural experience.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: The main celebration happens around Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower, where people gather to watch fireworks and enjoy street parties.
Cultural Experiences Museums and Exhibits:
Many museums, like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, may have special holiday exhibitions. Check their schedules as some may be closed on Christmas Day.
Theatre and Ballet: Enjoy a festive show at the Opéra Garnier or a Christmas ballet, such as The Nutcracker.
Shopping Holiday Sales:
Sales usually start in early January, so if you’re staying past New Year’s, you might catch some great deals.
Luxury Shopping: Explore the high-end stores on Avenue Montaigne or at Galeries Lafayette for last-minute gifts or holiday splurges.
Practical Tips Weather:
Paris can be cold and sometimes wet during the holidays, so pack warm clothing, including a good coat, scarf, and gloves.
Language: While many Parisians speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience.
By organizing your vacation around these tips, you can enjoy a magical holiday season in Paris, full of festive cheer and unforgettable experiences.