As we all know, there is no bad time to visit Paris. Its romantic appeal will draw you out even on the coldest of winter days, so why not escape from the mundanities of everyday life and make the most of the beauty that is Paris at Christmas time!

What to Do in Paris in Winter

Last minute shopping at the Christmas markets 

From November until early January, Christmas Markets appear throughout the city in their characteristically Swiss wooden chalets. Serving hot mulled wine and ciders, hot chocolate, crepes and raclette wheels, they are the only place where you can make your last minute Christmas gift purchases and find something so unique your family won’t notice that you almost forgot about them!

One of Paris’ most beautiful historic landmarks, the Hôtel de Ville, opens an incredible Christmas village, featuring market stalls, a carousel, snow-covered trees and even the chance to ‘meet Santa Claus’!

Another top Christmas market destination in Paris is the Tuileries Garden “La Magie de Noël” Christmas Market, right next to the Louvre. Part traditional Christmas Market, part holiday carnival, it’s almost half a mile long on the north side of the garden between Place des Pyramides and Place de la Concorde and it’s probably the biggest Christmas market in the city!

Hidden Gems: Discovering Paris’s Lesser-Known Museums

While visiting the classic tourist attractions in Paris is a must, you don’t want to miss out on some of the city’s lesser known, yet fantastically interesting museums. 

The Musée du parfum Fragonard, a few steps from the Opéra Garnier, takes you through a one-of-a-kind tour of the history and manufacturing process of fragrance, from Ancient Egypt to the 20th century, including kohl pots, pomanders, perfume burners, pots-pourris, travel sets, smelling salt bottles, precious flask and more!

It’s fun, informative, free and smells incredible, how could you want to miss it?

For the fans of art, who want to avoid waiting in insane lines to see weirdly small paintings, consider visiting the Dali Paris (formerly known as Espace Dali). This is the largest private collection of Salvador Dali’s artwork, presenting over 300 works through a collection of theatrical sculptures, erotic, dreamlike or humorous engravings, poetic objects, furniture and temporary exhibitions. 

Indulgent Winter Treats: Sampling Parisian Pastries

There is quite literally nothing the French are more known for than their baked goods. From Baguettes to Croissants, as soon as you hear those words you just haaave to try on your best French accent. 

During the winter season, however, all over Paris you will find one of the most famous staple Christmas desserts: the Bûche de Noël, or Yule Log (which did originate in France, fun fact).

It’s essentially a rolled-up chocolate sponge cake, filled with chocolate cream or whipped cream to resemble a decorative Yule log. Many variations have been created, with a wide array of flavour combinations and styles, even some turning it into sorbets and ice-cream. 

Find a cafe, sit with a hot chocolate and find out which version most tickles your fancy, you will not be able to say non!

Where to Stay: The Historic and Newly Revived Le Grand Hôtel Cayré

Finding the perfect place to stay can be one of the most difficult parts of planning a trip. However, the newly (re)opened Le Grand Hôtel Cayré might be just the place you are looking for.

Marking the rebirth of the historic Hôtel Cayré, where Parisian artists, writers, and intellectuals used to reside, this newly renovated hotel is in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, in the 7th arrondissement, and offers everything you could possibly need in a beautifully curated space.

Design lovers can enjoy the exclusive La Chambre du Collectionneur, designed in partnership with renowned curator Gilbert Kann. It has custom-made furniture, antiques, and bespoke pieces, all available for purchase, giving you a unique chance to bring a piece of Paris home with you!

The hotel’s restaurant Annette is a tribute to the inspirational French-German writer and pacifist Annette Kolb, who lived in the original hotel for almost 20 years, and offers a fresh interpretation of traditional all-day brasserie dining. They also have an exciting hidden bar called Officine Bac, which presents expertly crafted cocktails and a selection of rare spirits and infusions.

Whether you come by plane or train, just remember to bring your waterproof shoes, lots of layers, and enjoy everything this city’s winter wonderland has to offer!