Paris is always a good idea—even more so when the festive season draws nearer and the entire city transforms into a winter wonderland. As soon as the spooky season is over and the weather turns colder, festive decorations and twinkling lights begin to appear throughout the city. A few weeks later, as November ends, Christmas markets start popping up in various well-known and lesser-known places across Paris.
Christmas markets in Paris – The best festive experiences in the city of Light
Wandering through these Christmas markets is one of the best ways to experience the seasonal magic of Paris. So, without further ado, here are our picks of the best Christmas markets in the city—perfect for sipping mulled wine and picking out unique handmade gifts for your loved ones !
The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market
The Champs-Élysées is famous for a reason, and if you listen to the song, you’ll find “tout ce que vous voudrez” on this iconic avenue. And even more so from the end of November as a Christmas market pops up along the pavements, stretching down the avenue and offering a festive change from the high-end boutiques.
Although it can be quite busy and at times overwhelming, it’s definitely worth a visit, as it is the second-largest Christmas market in Paris, with over 200 chalets selling Christmas presents and handmade ornaments. You’ll also find plenty to eat and drink: hot chocolate, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and crêpes. And for those who love ice skating but don’t get to do it often, the nearby rink is the perfect spot.
Since it’s such an iconic spot in Paris, it gets very busy so it’s best to go early in the day or on weekdays if possible.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market
This one is for those who enjoy a cosy, intimate Christmas market. Located in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood, right by the Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, this small market consists of green chalets selling homemade gifts, ornaments, artisanal jewellery, papercraft, wooden sculptures, seasonal pastries, and hot drinks.
Its picturesque location makes it especially worth the trip as the entire Left Bank neighbourhood is delightful to explore, with its charming streets and boutiques. So head over there for the market and stay a while to stroll down the narrow streets of the 6th arrondissement.
What’s more, the Bon Marché is a ten-minute walk from the Christmas market so if you don’t find that perfect gift you were looking for on one of the stalls, you can head to the iconic department store to see if you can find it there (as well as seek shelter from the cold !)
La Défense Christmas Market
I rarely recommend a trip to La Défense, to be honest. It’s Paris’s modern business district, full of tall buildings and very little charm. If you need a reference, it’s where Alfie lives in Emily in Paris—or simply picture London’s City or New York’s financial district.
But for a few weeks each year, La Défense becomes surprisingly charming as the largest Christmas market in Paris takes over the area. With more than 350 stalls selling gourmet food, artisanal products, handmade decorations, and unique gifts, the market is a lovely spot to walk around ! And what makes it even more special : the festive music and impressive light displays.
Another advantage is that, because it’s slightly outside the city centre, it tends to be less crowded than other markets !
Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (Fête des Tuileries)
This is one of the most famous and popular markets, located right in the centre of Paris in the Tuileries Garden. What makes this Christmas market unique is that it features rides, attractions, and games for children (and adults!) It’s a very family-friendly market, perfect for kids and anyone who prefers a slightly smaller space.
Because of this, it tends to be more about the food, drinks, and amusements than the handcrafted gifts. But its magical setting near the Louvre makes it well worth a visit and the smell of mulled wine and churros, combined with Christmas music, adds to the charm.
Montmartre Christmas Market
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting Montmartre, one of the most charming and authentic neighbourhoods in the city. Even without a Christmas market, Montmartre feels magical with its cobblestoned streets, tiny bistros, art galleries, and painters ready to sketch your portrait… It feels like stepping back into La Belle Époque.
And when Christmas approaches, the area becomes even more festive with a small market near the Sacré-Cœur. The market itself is small and village-like, with handmade crafts, artisanal goods, mulled wine, and spiced cookies — and the views alone are worth the climb up the hill, offering breathtaking panoramas of the city so if you like old-Paris charm and scenic rooftops, don’t miss it.
Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market
Much like the Tuileries market, this one benefits from its spectacular location, right in front of Paris’s City Hall.
The stalls offer everything from handmade gifts to mulled wine and warm snacks. And if you don’t find the perfect present here, the surrounding area is full of small boutiques.
The great thing about this Christmas market is that it features an ice-skating rink—a great option for those looking for some festive exercise.
One of the highlights is the light show that illuminates the façade of the Hôtel de Ville. It creates a magical, cosy atmosphere, so I recommend going in the early evening as night falls to enjoy it fully.
Bastille Christmas Market
This market is perfect for those looking for unique and alternative gifts. It has a more “trendy” and artisanal feel, with stalls offering flavoured chocolate, decorated socks, and many creative items. It’s a great choice if you want to experience a less touristy, more local side of festive Paris.
Helpful Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets in Paris
No matter which market you visit, here are a few tips to make the most of your trip:
Dress Warmly: December in Paris is cold and often windy. Bring a scarf, gloves, and layers—you’ll be much more comfortable wandering around the stalls.
Try the seasonal treats. Mulled wine, hot chocolate, roasted chestnuts, and churros are part of the magic. Christmas is not the time to be too reasonable.
Avoid peak times when possible: Many markets get crowded on weekends. Weekdays or earlier hours are more agreeable.
Combine your visit with sightseeing. Each market is located in a different neighbourhood, so take advantage and explore the surrounding streets with your cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Bring a bit of cash. Most places accept cards nowadays, but some vendors prefer cash. Just be sure to keep an eye on your belongings—Christmas markets attract pickpockets.
Book Accommodations Early: Paris is a popular destination during the holiday season, and accommodations can fill up quickly. So, make sure to book your hotel well in advance.
Why Christmas Markets in Paris Are Special
Paris is always a good idea, but as the festive season begins, the City of Lights truly lives up to its name, offering glittering displays throughout its streets. The city offers the perfect blend of traditional and modern holiday charm, and each market has its own unique character—from the elegance of the Champs-Élysées to the quaint charm of Montmartre.
Visiting these markets allows you to discover handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious seasonal treats you won’t find elsewhere. Whether you’re strolling under sparkling lights, sipping vin chaud, or picking out ornaments, the Christmas markets in Paris create a festive experience that’s truly unforgettable.
If you’ve ever wanted to visit Paris, there is no better time than December (except maybe April, as the jazz standard suggests). But what December offers are glittering Christmas markets that let you explore the city with a cup of mulled wine in hand—whether you’re walking down bustling avenues or charming neighbourhood streets.
I hope you enjoyed this feature about the Christmas Markets in Paris, and have a look here for more of our Paris guides.
If you love the magic of European Christmas markets as much as I do, don’t miss our free 37-page guide to the Best European Christmas Markets — packed with insider tips, travel advice, and festive inspiration. (available from mid November to end December) ✨
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With love,
