Christmas in Paris guide: everything you want to know about celebrating Christmas in Paris

I love Paris! There's no other city in Europe I visit as often and where I always leave feeling inspired. That's why a comprehensive guide to celebrating Christmas in Paris was a must for Your Little Black Book. I'm practically always in Paris around the holidays (sometimes before or around Christmas, often for New Year's Eve), and it's one of the trips I enjoy most every year.

Follow @yourlbb on Instagram

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱!

I've rounded up a complete list with the coziest and most festive Christmas markets in Amsterdam you don't want to miss this year. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, food stalls, live music, unique gifts and lots of Christmas vibes all December long.

Whether you're planning a festive day with the fam or friends, or just want to soak up that holiday spirit. These are the markets in Amsterdam to put on your calendar now. 🎄✨

𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 “𝘾𝙃𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙏𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙀𝙏” 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄'𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝙔𝙇𝘽𝘽-𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨.

Send this list to your festive partner-in-crime, grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine 😉), and have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasinamsterdam #amsterdammarkets #christmasmarkets #amsterdamguide thingstodoinamsterdam winterinthenetherlands festiveseason christmasvibes marketlovers amsterdamtips

45 29

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18161705302397001

HOME ALONE 4 INCOMING 😅 My trip to NYC ends in a bad (Christmas) movie when the hotel gives my carry-on luggage with passport to an old lady who doesn't realize this and checks the luggage on a flight to the UK!

Now I'm stuck here in NY without a passport, and I missed my flight.

I've experienced a lot in all the years I've been traveling for Your Little Black Book, but this is a first 😅.

This chat video is purely therapeutic in nature 🤣🤣🤣. Because really: HOW?! 🫢

Note to self: it's better to carry your passport all day, instead of leaving it "safely" in the hotel, apparently... and from now on, attach suitcases with cables in the storage room. Even if you're staying in a luxurious and expensive hotel, everything is still done by humans.

Now I'm stuck in one of the world's coolest cities, but of course I just want to be home with Manuel, as planned. 😔

To be continued 🧳✈️

And thanks for all the sweet DMs ❤️❤️❤️❤️

✖️✖️✖️
Anne

349 165

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18349472161204612

𝟳𝘅 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗷𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ...�� 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄

How cool is this? There are places in the Netherlands where you can cut down your own Christmas tree! You don't hear about it very often, even though it's quite common in America (where I'm currently!).

Good to know: some of these places in the Netherlands are only open for a few days a year and you have to reserve a time slot.

💬 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 “𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗠” and I will send you the article with all the details and dates in your DM.

Have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#christmasintheNetherlands #christmasouting #christmastree #christmasfarm #christmas2025 winterintheNetherlands Christmastips Christmasinspiration Netherlandsdiscover Decembertips winterweekend

45 30

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18412923946138734

And do you also have a nice garden?

I want to thank you for your patience and help. 𝟳-𝗷𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲!

This time we went to @williams.farmhouse, one of my favorite lunch spots in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. But is it also fun during the day with kids?

We ordered a 'plain' version of the Farmhouse burger 🍔: yes, really just meat + cheese 🤣… and together with the fries it was a mega success.

Happy child, happy us... and it was such a cozy, rainy afternoon. I mean, this interior makes me dream of the Cotswolds again!

Do you have a favorite 𝗸𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 in Amsterdam or the Netherlands?

Let me know in the comments, I'll collect everything for the next 𝗞𝗜𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗙!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamfood #amsterdamrestaurants #amsterdamfoodie #amsterdamguide amsterdamwithkids kidsproef familyfriendly amsterdamlunch amsterdamoudzuid yourlittleblackbook kidsproofamsterdam

51 18

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18069820640457698

So happy to finally share this! @lefoodwalk is back this winter with four themed walks during the Amsterdam Light Festival, from November 27th to January 18th.

Perfect for a day out with friends, a date, colleagues, or family. From a Street Food Walk to an Oyster Walk, and from cocktails to an old-school Amsterdam drinks walk.

The Le Foodwalk team has listened to you and there is a different experience to book almost every day.

Tickets (which are even cheaper than last year 🔥) are now live! I've put a link in my bio.

I have a nice garden and a beautiful garden 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱: 4 bites + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @weareedn_amsterdam ⦁ @caferestaurantdebazel ⦁ @soulkitchen_amsterdam ⦁ @blackandblue_reguliers
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
Package: 4 x 2 oysters + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ Soulkitchen ⦁ De Bazel ⦁ @bellyofthebeastbar ⦁ @vermeerswijnkamer
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗖𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Wed-Sat
Included: 3 cocktails (also 0.0%) + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @feijoaamsterdam⦁ @lottisamsterdam ⦁ Belly of the Beast
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €35,50

𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Sun-Wed
Included: 3 Dutch drinks & 3 Dutch bar snacks + @amsterdamlightfestival app (worth €6,99)
𝗕𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @hetkarbeel ⦁ @proeflokaalvanwees ⦁ @beertemple_amsterdam
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €33,50

Who do you want to do a Foodwalk with this winter?

𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙞𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙒𝙒𝙒.𝙇𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙊𝘿𝙒𝘼𝙇𝙆.𝘾𝙊𝙈.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

#lightfestival #lefoodwalk #amsterdamlightfestival #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdambynight #canalview

195 16

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18087026804313018

I have a nice garden in my garden and 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 🎅🏼

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and I can tell you: this list will instantly get you in the holiday spirit. 🎄

📍In this new video, I've listed the most beautiful Christmas markets and winter fairs in the Netherlands, from Maastricht to The Hague.

Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine, raclette, Christmas carols, ice skating with your besties, or planning a cozy weekend getaway in December, now's the time to block your calendar.

Send the tips to your Christmas date ❤️ and comment "CHRISTMAS MARKET" to receive a link to ALL the Christmas market shortlists on Your Little Black Book.

Let the Christmas fun begin!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #kerstmarktnederland #kerstuitje #winterfair #kerst2025 #weekendtips #thingstodointhenetherlands #magischmaastricht #royalchristmasfair #kerstmarktamsterdam #winterinthenetherlands #kerstvibes #yourlbb #kerstmarkt #christmasmarket

167 36

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17960624778007897

I have a nice garden – I have a nice garden in my garden

Did you know Bangkok holds a special place in my heart? 💛 If I were ever to live anywhere other than Amsterdam, it would be there. Right now, I'm seriously homesick, and I even have a ticket option open on another screen ☺️. Fun fact: I even got married in Thailand!

Bangkok is one of those cities where you can return so many times and still discover something new every time.

In this mini-guide, I share some of my favorite neighborhood hotspots—from fun neighborhoods and coffee spots to ultimate hotels, street food, and night markets.

The list could easily have 200 tips, but this is a good start!

📍 Prepare your next trip to Thailand with our travel guide & luxury travel planner for your next trip to Thailand.

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ Talad Noi – creative, raw & surprising
⦁ Songwat & Chinatown – street food heaven
⦁ Ekkamai – laid-back & trendy
⦁ Ari – boutiques & brunch
⦁ Bang Rak – culture meets cool

𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ Charmkrung – trendy restaurant in an old shophouse
⦁ Hong Sieng Kong – riverside coffee spot
⦁ Potong – fine dining in Chinatown
⦁ Baan Rim Naam – cocktails during sundown
⦁ Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – comfort noodles, Bangkok style

**Illegible**
⦁ Four Seasons – ultimate luxury
⦁ Mustang Blue – unique & arty
⦁ ASAI – affordable boutique
⦁ The Standard – design & rooftop pool
⦁ Anantara Riverside – riverside resort vibes

I & I
⦁ Sundown on the Chao Phraya River = magical
⦁ Cycle through the city with Co van Kessel
⦁ Big Buddha – new must-see
⦁ Eat street on Banthat Thong Road – local favorite
⦁ What Saket at golden hour – view!

(𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧) 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ Yaowarat – food, food, food
⦁ Sampheng Market – for your best finds
⦁ ChangChui – creative chaos
⦁ Asiatique – family fun night market on the river
⦁ Train Night Market – vintage & food

📌 Save this guide so you have it with you when you go to Bangkok
💌 Send it to that friend you're making Thailand plans with

Have you ever been to Bangkok?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

209 33

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18083871092287539

Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️

The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.

I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙

This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.

Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.

📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).

Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating

38 5

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18107597638616976

𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)

Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.

Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.

From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival

DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren

NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel

FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot

Want all 31 tips?

Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek

98 16

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18090736165920878

𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.

From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.

Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️

📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams

📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam

📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam

📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar

📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles

Please let us know where you're going first.

Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots

126 14

Open post by yourlbb with ID 17952664892899505

The most beautiful Christmas displays at garden centers throughout the Netherlands are now open! 🎄

Only seven more weekends until Christmas... and this cozy and free Christmas outing is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Trust me, I've been there myself ;-).

Do you have a favorite that's not in this video? Let me know in the comments! You can also find the complete list of 30 tips via the link in my bio ✨.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#Christmasshows #Christmasshow2025 #Christmasdecoration #Christmasinspiration #gardencenter #weekendtip #thingstodo #discovertheNetherlands #winterouting #cozyoutings #Christmasholiday #Christmasfeeling #Christmasmarkets #Decembertips

706 79

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18088547011928998

𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟲, 𝟳, 𝟴 & 𝟵)

Another cozy fall weekend in the city is coming up — and there's so much to do again.

Think: vintage markets, wine bars, free entrance at ARTIS, and a new ravioli bar that just started doing lunch.

From flea market finds to silk flower bouquets and Marseille-style bouillabaisse Sundays… this weekend's got it all and I got 45 tips listed on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦 & 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗚
– The last QRU Flea Market of the year (70+ sellers under the tracks)
– Indoor treasure hunting at De Hallen Market on Saturday
– Build your own silk flower bouquet at the Atelier Verden Pop-up on Prinsengracht

𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗜𝗟𝗬 𝗙𝗨𝗡
– Free entry for kids (up to 12) at ARTIS Zoo on Nov 8 & 9

𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦
– Café Vita Lente just opened in West — from the former Coulisse team
– Leonardo's Ravioli Bar now open for lunch on weekends
– Café Modern's Sunday Special in Noord: vintage tableware, vinyl & bouillabaisse

Want all 45 tips?
Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll send the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide straight to your DM — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #AmsterdamMarkets #WeekendInAmsterdam #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamRestaurants #VintageAmsterdam #CityGuide #FallInAmsterdam

149 18

Open post by yourlbb with ID 18352010068160665

Celebrating Christmas in Paris is magical and something for your bucket list

Why do I love Paris so much? The food is good almost everywhere, even at a random bistro on the corner, you can sit on a heated terrace all winter long, and there are so many beautiful lights year-round. But Christmas in Paris is extra special for me! The department stores with their enormous Christmas trees and unique Christmas windows, the Christmas markets, and the thousands of lights. I simply can't get enough. And completely against my usual principles, for Christmas in Paris, I always want to stay in a hotel that's right in the heart of it all instead of in one of the trendier neighborhoods. Last year, I was in Paris to create this comprehensive Christmas Guide for you. I hope it's helpful if you're in Paris around the holidays! Have a wonderful time and happy holidays!

TIP: Take the Thalys to Paris. Watch Netflix or have breakfast or brunch on the train and then hop off in the heart of Paris! Find the cheapest tickets here >>

Rooftop Galeries La Fayette

Celebrating Christmas in Paris – what you want to know

• Would you like to travel to Paris by train? Then book your tickets for the train exactly three months in advance. Thalys, that is when the new tickets go on sale and the prices are often at their best.
• Many good restaurants are closed between Christmas and New Year's because their owners are on vacation. So, check their website or Facebook page beforehand for current opening hours.
• The cozy Christmas atmosphere in Paris starts from mid-November and usually lasts until mid-January.
• Going to Paris to shop? Keep in mind that the sales don't start until after New Year's Eve, usually on the first Tuesday in January. Discounts can reach as high as 70 or 80% every week, especially at the major department stores.
• Read more tips about the best places to celebrate Christmas in Paris later in this blog!

Dining out at Christmas in Paris

A visit to Paris isn't complete without a leisurely meal! A very handy app for Paris that I use a lot myself is the app from Le FoodingJust like Your Little Black Book, they write about the newest restaurants in town. The app also has a map so you can easily see what's available nearby. I also recommend making a reservation for the evening. The better restaurants often fill up weeks in advance, and there's nothing more annoying than wandering around looking for a nice place when you're hungry, right? Use websites like Open table You can easily book a restaurant abroad. Handy, because I always find it really annoying to call restaurants. I don't speak French, and they often barely speak English! Tip: FIRST search Le Fooding for the nicer and better restaurants and then see if you can book them through Open Table or another booking website.

More hotspots in Paris

Fun things to do at Christmas in Paris

Are you going to Paris for Christmas, or are you planning to? I can tell you from experience that it's helpful to make a plan of what you're going to do. You won't be the only one celebrating Christmas in the most romantic city in the world. Just like booking restaurants, you can also reserve other Christmas activities in Paris in advance. An added bonus: you often don't have to wait in line! If it's just the two of you, you might want to book less, but if you're spending the holidays in Paris with the whole family, it's even better to have a plan. My partner and I always visit one mega-tourist attraction when we're in Paris. Simply because sometimes cheesy can be a lot of fun! So, from experience, I can tell you about the following Paris attractions that are fun to do at Christmas. Tip: look for some nice restaurants or cafes near these highlights beforehand, because chances are you'll want to warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine afterward!

1. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel: You can't miss it! This giant Ferris wheel is located near the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens. In good weather, you'll have a magnificent view of Paris from the top. Tip: bring a bottle of red wine ;-)!
2. Climb the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe: Not something you'll do every time you're in Paris, but it's fun every so often. Be sure to book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance and choose the short-lane option. It'll be more than worth your money! Climbing the Arc de Triomphe is also fun and a nice change of pace.
3. Visit one of the museums: There are so many beautiful museums in Paris. If you want, you can go somewhere different every time you're there. You simply have to see an icon like the Louvre at least once in your life! For the other museums in Paris, I recommend checking out their temporary exhibitions. I've already visited some of the most beautiful ones! My favorite museums in Paris are: Mad Paris near the Louvre, Palais de Tokyo and the fashion museums such as Louis Vuitton Foundation and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
4. Spend a day at a castle: When I say castles and Paris, you probably immediately think of Versailles. But did you know that Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte served as inspiration for this world-famous palace? If you've ever been to Versailles, this is a great alternative. Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte It remains privately owned and run by the de Vogüé family, who still live there. At Christmas, this castle is especially special, as the rooms and coach house are filled with Christmas decorations and trees. Each one more ornate than the last, you're guaranteed to get that Christmas feeling here! 

   Book tickets

   

   Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte

5. Enjoy hot chocolate near Montmartre: Wander through the narrow streets around Montmartre and stop at one of the brasseries for a hot chocolate with whipped cream. Then, walk down Rue des Martyrs and Rue Henry Monnier, where you'll find several great hotspots, such as Buvette.
6. Take a stroll in Parc des Buttes Chaumont: In my opinion, this is the most beautiful park in Paris. It's not in the city center, but it's worth a visit if you enjoy a stroll before brunch. Be sure to visit the chapel at the highest point of the park; from there, you'll have a wonderful view of the Sacré Coeur, among other places. Also nice: have a drink afterwards at one of the park's restaurants, such as Rosa Bonheur and Le Pavillon du Lac.
7. Light a candle at the Sacré Coeur: Speaking of the Sacré Coeur… The holidays might be an especially nice time to light a candle here for someone you don't want to forget.
8. Brunch or enjoy a crêpe at Marché des Enfants Rouge: Check the opening hours before you go, as they may vary around the holidays. In the north of Le Marais, this food market serves the most delicious crêpes with sugar. Don't be surprised if there's a line, but it's more than worth the wait.
9. Take a light tour on an open-top bus: Check the weather forecast beforehand and dress extra warmly. If it's dry, you'll have the best view of all the illuminated buildings and attractions from a touristy open-top double-decker bus at night. Bring your own drinks to stay warm and snuggle up with your lover!
10. Eating and drinking at one of the Christmas markets: Yes, TOO touristy, but in my opinion, very cozy. When I'm in Paris around Christmas, I always make a point of visiting one of the Christmas markets. Enjoy raclette, sip mulled wine, and browse the stalls. There are several marchés de Noël (Christmas Markets) throughout the city. I personally find the Christmas market in the Saint-Germain-des-Près district very charming. This year, there's also the Christmas market under the Eiffel Tower, "Village de Noël," which includes an ice skating rink and stalls where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks!
11. Drink champagne at The Crazy Horse: I've seen quite a few shows in Paris now, mate The Crazy Horse I think it's the best. A small theater with a tasteful burlesque show (really!) near the Seine. You can book various packages, and I would definitely go for the one with a bottle of bubbly! 

    Search for tickets

12. Feel like a kid again at Disneyland Paris: I just got back from the park, and honestly, I felt like a kid again! A visit to Disneyland Paris It remains magical. I don't think age matters here. Tip: bring some tasty lunch and snacks from one of the delicatessens in the city! Read my tips for Disneyland Paris during the holidays. Here. 

    Book tickets

13. Go eat oysters on the street: You know that feeling? Sometimes in Paris, you suddenly turn into a street and it's so lively that you hop from bar to bar. Eating something everywhere with a glass of wine! I can't get enough of the oyster stalls, especially. I always go to the little one. The Ecume Saint-Honoré on Rue du Marché Saint-Honoré.
14. See Paris from the water: It can be quite cold in Paris at Christmas, and it might even snow. It's especially nice to have some indoor activities. For example, warm up with a cruise on the Seine!
15. Go treasure hunting at the flea market: I never leave a city without checking out where the best flea markets are. In Paris, the Puces des Vanves and Clignancourt flea markets are definitely not to be missed.
16. Admire the Christmas trees on Place Vendôme: Even if you can't afford anything in the square, the atmosphere is always special with all the Christmas trees covered in lights and the chic shops in the surrounding streets!

And of course, window shopping (and shopping) at the department stores, but more on that below!

Grand Magasins

Christmas shopping in Paris

When I walk past the windows of the grand stores on Boulevard Haussmann in Paris, I feel like a little child. Every year, I can stand there for minutes in awe. Each window is more beautiful than the last! My favorite department stores, where I always stop to peek, are, of course, Galeries La Fayette and Printemps.

Galeries Lafayette

Bon Ton

This is where you want to stay for Christmas in Paris

I've mentioned it before, but when I travel to a different city during the holidays, I love to immerse myself in the Christmas spirit. I prefer to stay as close as possible to the Christmas markets and the major department stores, museums, and boutiques around the corner. If you're planning a trip to Paris for Christmas, I'd recommend a hotel in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 7th, or 9th arrondissements. I recently stayed in the 1K Hotel in Le MaraisSuper centrally located, with hotspots like Merci, Bonton, and Mary Celeste just around the corner. Fun fact: they also have a speakeasy cocktail bar with a South American vibe, accessible through the kitchen! Which other hotels are my favorites? You can read about them below! A night at The Ritz is still on my bucket list for 2018. But maybe I need to win the lottery for New Year's Eve to do that ;-)!

1K Hotel

PARIS TRAVEL TIPS

>> HOW TO GET THERE: With the Thalys via NS International You can be in the heart of Paris in less than 4 hours. They often have offers starting from €29! Find the cheapest tickets here >> >> YOURLBB'S FAVORITE HOTELS IN PARIS: 1ST: Hotel Henriette 2E: Ritz, Edgar, The Hoxton 3E: 1K Paris, Hotel Emile, Pavillon de la Reine, Hotel Jules & Jim 4E: Bourg Tibourg 5E: Hotel Le Lapin Blanc 6E: Hotel la belle Juliet 8E: Ministere Hotel 9E: Hotel du Nell, Hotel Amour 10E: Paradise Hotel, Hotel Grand Amour 11E: Mama Shelter, Hotel Fabric 12E: Citizen M 13E: COQ Hotel Paris