From Notre Dame to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, find the perfect Parisian Christmas market with our curated list of top picks.
Ah, the festive season in Paris begins… A time when the city transforms into a sparkling wonderland of twinkling lights, sweet aromas of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts in the streets.
From handcrafted treasures to delicious treats, the Christmas markets in Paris offer an enchanting experience for all who wander through their charming stall, but they are not all created equal.
So the Flavors of Paris team has created a list of some of what we consider the best Christmas markets in Paris.
Notre Dame: A Timeless Christmas Charm
Voted the Most Charming Christmas Market in Paris, Notre Dame’s market returns this year, starting November 29th and running until Christmas Day. Located in Place Viviani, the square that rests right in front of the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, this market is a haven for handmade creations—think artisanal candles, delicate ceramics, and luxurious cashmere scarves. For the little ones, there are whimsical wooden toys.
The market is also a feast for the senses, offering warm chestnuts, indulgent foie gras, and fragrant mulled wine. Don’t forget to stop by for a special visit from Santa Claus, who brings an extra sprinkle of magic to this beloved tradition.
Open: November 29 - December 25
Experience Gift
La Défense: The Grandest of Them All
The dazzling market in La Défense is one of the largest Christmas markets in France! This festive wonderland will transport you to a world of sparkling lights, gourmet treats, and over 350 charming chalets. Live music often fills the air, and the magic is alive in every corner of this monumental market. Don’t miss the iconic ice skating rink, where you can glide across the ice under the glow of holiday lights.
Open: Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Friday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
Ice Rink Hours: Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Friday: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
*Exceptions: December 24th: 11:00 am - 6:00 pm December 25th: Closed
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A Village of Yuletide Delights
Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés market brings the magic of Christmas to life every year. This enchanting market, nestled beside the lovely Square Félix Desruelles and the historic Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church (the oldest church in Paris), has been spreading Christmas cheer for over 20 years.
Wander through wooden chalets brimming with honey, truffles, golden pretzels, and the quintessential tartiflette. Savour each bite and sip a warm beverage to beat the winter chill. For the little ones, a photo with Santa Claus is the perfect souvenir of this festive adventure.
Open: November 26 - January 1
Monday - Friday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday - Sunday: 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
Jardin des Tuileries: A Carnival of Christmas Magic
The Jardin des Tuileries, Paris’ newest holiday market, combines the charm of a Christmas carnival with the tranquillity of a winter wonderland. Previously located along the Champs-Élysées, the market has found a new home in the lush Tuileries Gardens, where 80 chalets and 30 rides await. From bumper cars to wooden horse rides and flying chairs, it’s an experience the whole family will treasure.
Ready to ice skate? The expansive rink at Tuileries is perfect for beginners and seasoned skaters alike. For a truly immersive experience, Flavors of Paris offers a guided tour, where an expert will share the story behind each market stall and the French delicacies that make this season so unique.
Immerse yourself in the majestic Christmas spirit with our expert guides; learn about the detailed craftsmanship of each product, the history behind French gastronomy, and Christmas Parisian traditions and delicacies.
Snack Magic
Open: Until January 1
Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 11:45 pm
Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 12:45 am Sunday: 11:00 am - 11:45 pm
*Exceptions: December 25th & 31st: 7:30 pm close
The Alsation Christmas Market At The Gare de L'est
Inspired by the festive traditions of Alsace, a region in northeastern France with a rich and unique cultural heritage, this market offers a charming glimpse into a different side of French Christmas celebrations. Located on the Parvis de la Gare de l'Est. This year, this gourmet Christmas market is yours to discover from Friday, November 29 to Sunday, December 15, 2024.
Step into a wonderland filled with enticing aromas of regional Alsatian treats and traditional decorations. Discover handcrafted treasures and savour authentic local specialties like:
Sauerkraut: A hearty and flavorful dish of fermented cabbage, perfect for a chilly winter day.
Kougelhopf: A delightful cake with a distinctive volcano shape, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Gingerbread: Aromatic and intricately decorated, a true holiday classic.
Local jams and cheeses: Discover various artisanal products, perfect for gifts or just for enjoying yourself.
Don't Miss: If you're visiting with children on December 6th, Saint Nicholas Day, they might receive a special gingerbread treat in the shape of a saint!
Open: Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m
Location: Gare de l'Est, Place 11 novembre 1918
Paris Insider Guide
Swedish Christmas Market at the Swedish Church in Paris
Head over to the Swedish Christmas market for a cultural shift. A traditional Swedish market, located at 9 Rue Médéric, 75017 Paris.
This market offers all the Scandinavian specialties: herring, salmon, cheese, breads, lingonberry jams, and the chance to do some holiday shopping. Find the perfect gifts for loved ones with glassware, stationery, and cutlery.
This special market is open for a limited time. Get there before it closes on December 1st!
Credit: Paris Insider Guide
Pantin Christmas Market
Don’t miss the limited-time, one-of-a-kind sustainable market. Located at 39 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris. This market is helping to make a difference this holiday season. With over 3,000 people walking through one weekend, Maison des Canaux sells ethical and fair trade products to its customers. This one-of-a-kind market brings the Christmas spirit to you through its zero-waste efforts. Mark your calendar because this limited-time market will only be available December 6-8th.
Open: December 6-8th
December 6th: 2 pm-7 pm
December 7-8th: 11:00 am- 7 pm
⚠️ Eiffel Tower Market - Not recommended
While the markets near the Eiffel Tower are tempting due to their picturesque views, be wary. Many goods sold here are mass-produced, often made in China, and marked up far above their value.
I made the mistake of buying a mulled wine there; it was so disgustingly sweet I was forced to throw it away.
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