Paris Christmas Sights and Attractions

Paris is not just the capital city of France but also one of the centres for European fashion and historical culture.  Paris is well-known as a romantic city, but during the Christmas period it is especially so.  Likewise, the magic of Christmas that so enchants children is abundant in Paris, making it a great place to take your children.

Christmas lights adorn all the main tourist attractions from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe. And if taking a walk along the Champs Elysees, wrapped up snug against the crisp evening air doesn’t fill you with Christmas spirit then nothing will!  The Champs Elysees is a famous stretch of road that goes through the center of Paris. It starts at the Arc de Triomphe and goes outward to the Place de la Concorde and is lined with shops, cafes, and 5 star hotels. Bring comfortable shoes since you’ll want to walk down this avenue to get the full experience.

The Seine river winds through the center of Paris. Taking one of the available river cruises is a popular way to see the many sights of Paris. Take a cruise at night to see the lights of Paris – it’s a whole different cruise to see the city at night.

It’s also fun to walk along the banks of the Seine river. Among all the popular buildings, art, and monuments, you’ll find small stands where people sell tourist items and Paris memorabilia.  Browse the Christmas market village made up of little wooden huts selling local delicacies as well as hand-crafted candles, tree decorations and toys and pick up a few unusual gifts or mementos to bring home.

You can also usually take part in outdoor ice skating for free (you’ll need to take your own skates if you have them, or you can hire them for a few Euros), which is fun for adults and children alike.  If you are planning to be in Paris for Christmas Day itself, try and get to the Christmas Eve service at Notre Dame, and if you are staying in a hotel rather than self-catering make sure you book well in advance at your chosen restaurant for your Christmas dinner.

If you are travelling with your children, then you should complete your visit to Paris with a trip to Disneyland.  Specially decorated for the season, the usual Disney magic combines with the Christmas spirit to make a truly memorable holiday.

To get to Paris from London this Christmas, consider taking the bus.  iDBUS runs coaches from London Victoria and the journey from London to Paris takes around nine hours, but at £35 Mini Price, the extra journey time is worth it.  You can travel overnight, enabling you (and your children) to sleep on board and wake up in Paris ready to start your Christmas adventure.  Or travel during the day and pack your on board baggage with Christmas-related games, books, movies and songs, making the most of the free on board Wi-Fi and plug sockets (don’t forget your plug adaptors!) and have yourself a very merry Christmas.