What will the Advent markets be like in Paris this year? Program and important information in one place

Ah, Paris! The city of love, lights, and… Christmas markets?

Oui, oui!

While Paris might be known for its romantic ambiance and iconic landmarks, come December, it transforms into a winter wonderland brimming with festive cheer.

So, grab your beret, and let’s explore the enchanting Christmas markets that sprinkle magic across the French capital.

A Parisian Christmas Extravaganza

From the Champs-Élysées to the Eiffel Tower, Paris’s Christmas markets pop up in some of the most picturesque locations, offering a delightful mix of traditional charm and Parisian flair. Stroll along the illuminated avenues, admire the twinkling lights, and let the festive atmosphere sweep you away.

What to Expect

• Artisan Treasures: Discover unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs, from delicate ornaments to cozy scarves and stylish accessories. It’s the perfect place to find that special something for everyone on your list.
• Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in a culinary adventure! Savour traditional French treats like crêpes, raclette, and pain d’épices (gingerbread). And don’t forget to warm up with a cup of vin chaud (mulled wine) or a creamy hot chocolate.
• Festive Fun: Enjoy ice skating rinks with stunning backdrops, merry-go-rounds, and even Ferris wheels offering panoramic views of the city.
• Enchanting Atmosphere: The markets are alive with the sounds of carols, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. It’s a joyous celebration of the holiday season that will leave you feeling merry and bright.

Advent markets Paris

In December, every city lights up with Christmas lights, but not everywhere the decorations are as spectacular as in Paris, which is nicknamed the “City of Light” even outside of the Christmas holidays. The Christmas lights on the Champs Élysées are a unique experience every year.

La Magie de Noël at Tuileries Garden Christmas Market

Tuileries Garden “La Magie de Noël” Christmas Market, located practically in the shadow of the famous Louvre Museum, is like no other. This festive wonderland is a dazzling mix of Christmas market charm and exhilarating carnival fun.

It’s the biggest, the liveliest, the loudest, and the most fun-filled Christmas market in the city – a top destination for Parisians and visitors from all over the city and other parts of France.

More Than Just a Market

With over 13 million visitors each year, La Magie de Noël is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s a place where the magic of Christmas comes alive, offering a unique blend of entertainment, shopping, and culinary delights.

The market has three major parts:

• Thrills and Chills – a Christmas-themed carnival packed with fairground attractions. Unlike other Parisian markets, the Tuileries boasts a wide array of Christmas-themed amusement rides and games, guaranteeing fun for all ages.
• Shop ‘Til You Drop – An “Artisan Village” featuring gifts and crafts from around the world Explore charming stalls overflowing with unique gifts, festive decorations, and artisanal crafts.
• Foodie Paradise – A vast selection of mouth-watering snacking, dining, and drinking options. From sweet treats and savory snacks to hot chocolate and even Champagne, the market offers a tempting selection of food and beverages to satisfy every craving.

And you will discover lots more later: a small ice rink, a Champagne igloo, dozens of Christmas trees – plus larger-than-life-sized plastic Santas, reindeer, and candy canes. And of course lights of all types, sizes, and colors everywhere. 

A Festive Feast for the Senses

The vibrant atmosphere, dazzling lights, and joyful sounds create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the rides, hunting for the perfect gift, or simply savoring the festive ambiance, La Magie de Noël promises to leave you feeling merry and bright.

Notre-Dame Christmas Market at Square Viviani

One of the most beautiful squares in Paris is René-Viviani Square. Overlooking the magnificent Church of Our Lady, which was destroyed by fire in April 2019 and is currently undergoing renovation, around three dozen stalls of the Christmas market The Marché de Noël de Notre-Dame will be located.

Selling everything from handmade jewelry to macaroons, pretzels, and lots of mulled wine, this event is widely regarded as one of the best Christmas markets in Paris. The organizers are preparing a competition for children. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Advent markets at one of the most famous cathedrals in Europe.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market

This Christmas Market’s 40 or so chalets line Boulevard St-Germain next to the famous St-Germain-des-Prés Church. 

This is one of the city’s most appealing mid-sized markets, and specializes in luxury items, such as fine leather pocketbooks, lovely jewelry, French gastronomy products, and handcrafted items. 

Saint Germain des Près is a district in Paris with luxury shops and expensive restaurants. He also knows them thanks to street booksellers.

Located in the 6th arrondissement in the shadow of the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the oldest church in Paris, this smaller Parisian Christmas market has a unique charm, especially when it gets dark and the whole area is lit up with thousands of lights.

Here you will find dozens of stalls selling a variety of goods, from food products to a whole range of craft gifts and handmade goods. The Saint Germain des Près district is also known for luxury shops, expensive restaurants, and street booksellers.

La Défense Marché de Noël – The Biggest Christmas Market in the Paris Area

The huge Christmas Market along the La Défense Esplanade boasts almost 180 chalets, which line the Esplanade, offering an array of artisanal crafts, gourmet food, and festive decorations. The towering skyscrapers provide a striking backdrop, creating a surreal juxtaposition of modern architecture and traditional Christmas magic. The market here dates back to 1995 and welcomes about 1.5 million visitors during the holiday season.

Dates and Delights

Here’s a taste of what awaits:

• Artisan Treasures: Discover unique handcrafted gifts, from delicate jewelry to hand-painted ceramics. It’s the perfect place to find that special something for everyone on your list.
• Gastronomic Adventures: Embark on a culinary journey with a diverse selection of French and international cuisine. Savour traditional favorites like raclette, oysters, and foie gras, or explore global flavors from around the world.
• Festive Fun: Enjoy live music, street performances, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
• Enchanting Illuminations: As dusk falls, the market transforms into a dazzling spectacle of lights, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Beyond the Market

While the market itself is a major draw, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding area.

• Grande Arche: Ascend to the top of this iconic arch for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.  
• Les Quatre Temps: This massive shopping center offers a welcome respite from the cold and a chance to indulge in some retail therapy.
• CNIT: This convention center often hosts special events and exhibitions during the holiday season.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

• Arrive early or late: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting the market during off-peak hours, either early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Come hungry: With so many delicious food options, be sure to come with an appetite!
• Bring your camera: Capture the unique blend of urban and festive beauty with plenty of photos.

What to see in Paris?

Eiffel Tower

Did you know that the Eiffel Tower was only supposed to stand in place for 20 years? It originally served as the entrance gate to fairs and was not popular with Parisians. In the end, they didn’t tear it down, because its top is a convenient place for transmitters. The tower is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 p.m. It is better to book tickets in advance online.

The Louvre

You must have heard about the most famous museum in Paris. Visitors can view famous paintings such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. In the museum, you will visit seven departments: Egyptian Antiquities, Middle Eastern Antiquities, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities, Islamic Art, Sculpture, Decorative Arts, and Painting Department.

It is open every day except Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Fridays, opening hours are extended until 9:45 p.m. Book your tickets in advance, because the interest in admission is huge.

Arc de Triomphe

The building dates from the 19th century, Napoleon had it built to celebrate the victory in the Battle of Slavkov. Every day from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. you can go up to the roof and look around.

Palace of Versailles

Although you won’t enjoy the castle garden much in December, you should still stop by the castle. As part of the tour, you will visit the period-furnished halls and bedrooms. Tours are held every day except Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Montmartre

Do you know Amelia of Montmartre? Follow in their footsteps. In this historic district, you will come across nice monuments such as windmills from the 19th century and the Sacré Coeur Basilica.

Le Dôme des Invalides

The huge complex of buildings was created in the 17th century as a home for war veterans. It still fulfills its function today, a military hospital and a retirement home operate here. At the same time, the Museum of the French Army with Napoleon’s tomb is in operation here. As in other French museums and monuments, children and students have free entry.

So, there you have it!

Paris offers a Christmas market experience unlike any other. Whether you’re seeking traditional charm, vibrant energy, or simply a taste of Parisian magic, these festive gatherings are sure to delight you. So bundle up, grab a cup of Vin Chaud, and let the City of Lights illuminate your holiday season.

Joyeux Noël!