Looking for the best Paris Christmas markets? Here’s a handy guide for you!
A visit to a Christmas market in Paris can be considered one of the quickest ways to get you into that holiday mood.
If you plan on celebrating Christmas in Paris, we suggest you continue reading this article.
This article will include a list of Christmas markets you can visit while exploring the City of Lights. These markets can instantly switch your spirit to the holiday season.
Besides, if you’re looking for things to do in Paris during the Christmas season, what could possibly be better than visiting a magical Christmas market in Paris? That’s right, nothing.
So, keep reading to find the best Paris Christmas markets or Les Marchés de Noël Paris in French.
Best Christmas Markets in Paris
Here are our favorite Christmas markets in Paris in no particular order.
1. Notre Dame Christmas Market (4th Arrondissement)
This Paris Christmas market can be found right next to the historic Notre Dame cathedral and is considered the most scenic Christmas market among them all.
If you cannot find the cathedral, ask a local for directions to Square René-Viviani on Quai Montebello. This market is well known for artisanal products such as paintings, jewelry, tableware, and regional produce.
This pretty Christmas market still stands today despite a tragic fire at the Notre-Dame cathedral in April 2018.
This market usually begins in early December and ends the day after Christmas. The nearest metro to this market is the Saint Michel metro station in Maubert-Mutualité. This market is perfect for some family fun and entertainment.
2. Canopée Des Halles Christmas Market (1st Arrondissement)
This Paris Christmas market is found near the La Canopée shopping mall. This market was considered one of the biggest in Paris but recently shrunk in size.
This market’s unique attraction must be the gigantic sparkling Christmas tree found at the heart of the market. This is one of the particular Christmas markets that host workshops that include arts and crafts.
This Paris Christmas market is perfect for people looking for artisanal gifts handmade by skilled craft workers.
Don’t worry if you can’t find the perfect gift at this market; there is a huge shopping mall next to this Christmas market—Forum des Halles.
The nearest metro to this market is the Les Halles metro station. This market takes place between late November and ends in late December.
3. Montmartre Christmas Market (18th Arrondissement)
This Paris Christmas market is found in the Bohemian Montmartre neighborhood near Sacre Coeur and is considered one of the smaller Christmas markets in Paris.
This market is unique because of the intimate environment it offers. Most people go here to avoid crowded markets.
At this market, you will find plenty of arts and crafts gift stalls and food stalls that sell traditional handmade foods.
This Paris Christmas market usually occurs between late November and the end of December. The nearest metro to this market is the Abbesses Butte Montmartre metro station.
The unique attraction that attracts people to this market is the famous Parisian church. This market is the perfect way to get an intimate feeling of the neighborhood.
4. La Magie De Noël Christmas Market (1st Arrondissement)
“The Magic of Christmas” is a huge Christmas market located in the Tuileries Garden. This Paris Christmas market is not only an admission-free market but a carnival as well.
This is why it can be considered one of the most popular markets in Paris. This market is excellent for people looking for a considerable amount of family fun, entertainment, and delicious food.
The nearest metro to this market is the Concorde metro station in Jardin des Tuileries. You can ride on the giant Ferris wheel or visit the Champagne bar for entertainment.
An ice skating rink can also be found at this Christmas market. La Magie de Noël takes place between late November and early January.
5. Saint-Germain-Des-Prés Christmas Market (6th Arrondissement)
This super-stylish Christmas market is unique for its wide variety of arts, crafts, regional products, and French foods.
This market is near the oldest church in Paris, giving the Christmas market its name. People are attracted to this market mainly because of the high-fashion items.
This market is great for people who are looking for fashionable items that are designed locally.
The stalls at this Christmas market usually focus on luxury items such as scented candles, Christmas decorations, French bags, etc.
The Saint-Germain metro station is the nearest metro to this market. This Christmas market usually occurs between the middle of December and continues to early January.
6. La Défense Marché De Noël
This massive Christmas market is found along the La Défense subway station. The unique attraction of this market is the beautiful view of skyscrapers in the background.
If you are looking for special and unique items that you could not find at another market, then this is the market to visit. You will find anything from stuffed animals to seasonal fruits.
Parisians believe this Christmas market is one of the best for dining; therefore, do not be surprised if you spend an entire evening at this market.
This market is located in one of the city’s main business districts and therefore making this market so popular amongst locals and tourists. This market takes place from the end of November to the end of December.
7. Eiffel Tower Christmas Market (7th Arrondissement)
This Paris Christmas market is located at Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and is classified by many as the most-loved Christmas market amongst Parisians.
The Eiffel Tour Christmas Village attractions include Christmas trees, fake snow, and magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower. This market is perfect for people looking for delicious traditional foods with an extra touch.
“The Iron Lady” is very much part of this Christmas market; therefore, some would consider this market the most scenic Christmas market in Paris.
This incredible scene and background create beautiful pictures you can use to remember your trip.
The nearest metro would be the Bir Hakeim metro station. This market takes place from the beginning to the end of December.
8. Town Hall Christmas Market (15th Arrondissement)
This annual Paris Christmas market is located near the town hall (also known as the Mairie).
This small market has about twenty Christmas chalets selling crafts, jewelry, decorations, etc.
Occasionally, you will find Santa Claus, or Père Noël, handing out goody bags at this Christmas market. At this market, you will also find exclusive crafty items from around the world.
On a good day, you might even see a live performance by a choir and afterward receive some tasty treats such as cupcakes and hot chocolate.
The Vaugirard metro station is the nearest metro to this market. This market occurs between the middle of December and the end of December.
The Town Hall Christmas market is perfect for experiencing a friendly neighborhood.
9. Alsatian Christmas Market (10th Arrondissement)
This famous Alsatian Christmas market can be found near the historic Gare de l’Est train station.
This market got its name from the famous Alsatian brioche cake that was introduced to France by Queen Marie Antoinette.
This is considered the oldest Alsatian market outside the region, with food trucks selling Alsace-styled items and foods.
You will find traditional Alsatian foods at this market, which sometimes come with free tasters.
There are a variety of foods, such as kougelhopf (Yeast bread), Alsatian pretzels, mountain cheeses, etc. Remember to try out some vin chaud served at this market. This market takes place between the beginning and middle of December.
10. Hôtel De Ville Christmas Market (4th Arrondissement)
This Christmas market can be found near the famous Hôtel de Ville. This market’s unique attraction must be the magical green trees decorated with sparkling lights.
The breathtaking views and fantastic holiday light show are other factors that make this market unique. Locals say that the best time to visit this market is at night.
The nearest metro to this market is the Hotel de Ville metro station. This Christmas market usually takes place between early December and early January.
Here you will find Swiss-styled wooden chalets that sell seasonal gifts and tasty traditional foods. This market is perfect for pretty pictures that come with incredible views and backgrounds.
11. Parc De La Villette Christmas Market (19th Arrondissement)
This small Christmas market can be found near the Philharmonie concert hall in Paris.
You will find the usual things at this market, such as traditional foods, regional wines, and exciting gift ideas. This might be one of the smaller markets in Paris, but this market seems to be growing each year.
The nearest metro to this market would be the Porte de la Villette metro station.
This is another market you can visit if you want to experience a friendly neighborhood vibe. This market usually takes place from early to late December and comes with no admission fee.
12. Bercy Village Christmas Market (12th Arrondissement)
This Christmas market is somewhat different from the usual Christmas markets mentioned above.
This market consists of permanent stores and pop-up stalls that combine to make one big Christmas market. The unique attractions of this market are the spectacular light display and the giant movie theatre screen.
The nearest metro to this market would be the Cour Saint Emilion metro station. This market might differ from other markets but is still worth the visit.
The Bercy Village Christmas market usually lasts from mid-November to mid-January. This market is perfect for beautiful pictures that can last a lifetime.
13. Cluny Museum Christmas Market (5th Arrondissement)
This Christmas market consists of a handful of stalls located at Saint Germain Boulevard. The Cluny Museum in Paris is situated very close to this market.
The unique feature of this market is the delicious foods and treats. You probably will not go out of your way for this market, but it would be a nice place to check out if you are in the area.
You will find delicious cheeses, sausages, jams, nuts, and more at this market. These are the perfect treats to give you a real taste of Paris.
The nearest metro to this market is the Saint Michel metro station. This market takes place from the beginning to the end of December.
More Paris Christmas Markets Worth Checking Out
- Marché de Noël Paris Beaubourg is an excellent Xmas market near Pompidou Center in the 4th Arrondissement.
- Les Féeries d’Auteuil is a Paris Christmas market filled with creativity and a flea market.
- Alésia-Leclerc Christmas Market offers foods from North America, Asia, Africa, etc.
- Trocadero Christmas Village happens just before Christmas day and offers a unique atmosphere with an ice rink, lightened wooden huts, and more.
- Pop-up stalls selling holiday fare often occur near Galeries Lafayette.
Final Thoughts on Paris Christmas Market
If you plan on taking a trip to Paris in December, we suggest visiting at least two or more Christmas markets. These Paris Christmas markets can get you to start the holiday season on the right foot.
Paris Christmas markets are filled with huge amounts of fun and entertainment for the whole family. From an ice rink for kids to a delicious vin chaud for the adults.
Remember to pack in warm clothes because Paris tends to have cold weather conditions at this time of the year.
Each Christmas market has its own theme, but these themes usually revolve around French cultures and traditions.
Also, remember to buy a gift or two at the market that you can take back home in remembrance of your vacation.
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