Even the scrooges can’t help feeling cheered by Paris in Christmas. Roasted chestnuts, vin chaud and raclette is yours for the taking and the city is about four times twinklier than usual.
So whether you’re coming for a holiday or simply trying to navigate your way around Paris in the festive period, our guide has it all – from twee Christmas markets to indugent gift inspiration. With Christmas in Paris, there’s something for everyone. 

Carousels in Paris

Christmas in Paris may be a season of roasted chestnuts and church choirs, but it’s also a time when the sharp, sweet scent of cotton candy makes the nose tingle, and the tinny music of the city’s merry-go-rounds floats in the air.

Even out of Santa season, Paris is heaven for kids looking for a sweet ride: carousels are an entrenched part of French childhood, as are the games of rings played on them. Most parks in Paris have one, such as the one in the Jardin des Plantes, with its dodos and dinosaurs, and the small one at the Jardin de Luxembourg, not grand or fancy at all, but well-loved, with its weathered elephants and unembellished horses.
During the holiday season, often children can ride the many carousels for free, giving parents a few spare moments to catch their breath between preparations and shopping. Here are some of the most iconic and well-placed carousels to ride in style.

Paris Ice Skating Rink

What’s more Christmassy than strapping on a pair of ice skates and doing figure-8s under the stars? Tumbling onto the ice with flailing arms in Paris while 80s rock blares from the loudspeakers, of course. Many seasonal ice rinks are conveniently placed next to Christmas markets, so you can sip a restorative vin chaud after skating your heart out. Happy gliding!

Christmas markets in Paris

While the favourite Champs Elysées market won’t be appearing in 2017, there are still plenty of Christmas markets in Paris to get your festive buzz on. 
From typical Alsatian fare, to a small jumble sale-like event in Montmartre, there is something for everyone in this selection of the best Christmas markets in Paris. For the finest festive trinkets, prezzies and moreish Christmassy grub, get browsing at the below.

By Time Out