Showcases and illuminationsilluminations, magical lighting experiences, Christmas markets… As the festive season approaches, the City of Light is filled with magic. But what about FREE Christmas activities in Paris? Yes, it’s possible to take in all the sights and sounds without breaking the bank. – Article updated regularly –
1) Christmas Markets – One of the must-do free activities in Paris
Dreaming of hot chocolates, Santa’s sleighs, ice rinks and snowy chalets? For a free family Christmas activity, head for Paris’ most beautiful Christmas markets. Tuileries Christmas Market, La Défense Christmas Market, Norwegian, African, Japanese Christmas Markets, or in the heart of Montmartre… Let the magic begin!
2) Christmas window displays – A free, magical spectacle
As the festive season approaches, it’s finally time for Christmas window displays and snowy decorations. As every year, Parisian department stores unveil a magical new theme for their interiors and windows. Regressive scenes that the whole family can’t get enough of, with stars in their eyes. Such is the case with La Samaritaine and its “Willy Wonka” theme, or Printemps Haussmann and its “Paper Christmas” theme. All you have to do is discover them!
3)Christmas illuminations in Paris – a feast for the eyes
As you stroll down the aisles of Bercy Village, look up to admire a sky of glittering candy canes. With its “Christmas Delight”, the open-air shopping center promises a magical holiday season. Strike a pose in front of the huge illuminated candy-shaped Photocall, and experience the magic of Christmas. And then there’s the Champs Élysées, with its trees shining brightly for the occasion. In short, there’s no shortage of Christmas lights in Paris this year.
4) Christmas villages near Paris – A complete change of scenery less than 2 hours away
Less than 2 hours from Paris by train or car, you can discover absolutely charming places that will instantly immerse you in the magic of Christmas. The villages of Provins, Janvry and Senlis offer activities and Christmas markets for young and old that are a must-see during the season. Beautiful Christmas villages to discover!
5) The illuminated châteaux and estates near Paris – For a magical evening
Paris has the good fortune to be ideally located not far from some sumptuous estates and châteaux. Among them, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which this year once again invites visitors to reverie, by decorating the entire estate in a thousand and one Christmas colors. The Domaine de Saint-Cloud also offers a luminous and enchanting tour for the whole family! Lumière en Seine is a spectacle of light shows, projections and incredible sound effects, to be seen throughout the season until January 2024.