8 Magical Ways To Spend Christmas In Paris 2014

Christmas in Paris is a truly magical experience. The City of Light transforms into a winter wonderland, filled with festive decorations, delicious treats, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Whether you're a romantic couple, a family, or a solo traveler, Paris has something for everyone during the holiday season. Here are eight magical ways to spend Christmas in Paris in 2014:

Ice Skating at the Eiffel Tower

One of the most iconic and romantic activities to enjoy in Paris during Christmas is ice skating at the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower's ice rink is open from late November to early January, offering breathtaking views of the city while you glide across the ice. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, this is an experience you won't want to miss.

Get into the Holiday Spirit with a Christmas Market Visit

Paris is home to several Christmas markets, each offering a unique and festive atmosphere. The Champs-Élysées Christmas Market is one of the most famous, featuring over 200 stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious food and drinks. Other notable markets include the Montmartre Christmas Market and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market.

Explore the Festive Lights and Decorations

Paris is renowned for its stunning light displays during the holiday season. Take a stroll along the Champs-Élysées, which is lined with over 400,000 twinkling lights, or visit the famous Galeries Lafayette department store, which features an impressive light show on its facade. Other notable displays can be found on the Avenue Montaigne, the Place des Vosges, and the Île de la Cité.

Indulge in French Holiday Treats

French patisseries and bakeries offer a wide range of delicious holiday treats, including gingerbread, macarons, and madeleines. Be sure to try a traditional French Christmas dessert, such as the Bûche de Noël, a log-shaped cake made from genoise or sponge cake, filled with buttercream, ganache, or jam.

Attend a Holiday Concert or Show

Paris is home to numerous concert halls and theaters, many of which host special holiday performances. The Palais des Congrès de Paris, the Théâtre du Châtelet, and the Salle Pleyel are just a few venues that offer a range of festive shows and concerts, including classical music, opera, and ballet.

Take a Holiday-Themed River Cruise

A holiday-themed river cruise along the Seine is a unique and memorable way to experience the magic of Paris during Christmas. Many cruise companies offer special holiday itineraries, which often include festive decorations, traditional French holiday music, and commentary on the city's history and landmarks.

Visit the Musée en Herbe's Winter Wonderland

The Musée en Herbe, a children's museum located in the heart of Paris, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The museum features a range of interactive exhibits and activities, including a festive forest, a snowball fight area, and a chance to meet Santa Claus.

Go Ice Skating at the Grand Palais

The Grand Palais, a stunning example of Belle Époque architecture, hosts a large ice rink during the holiday season. The rink is surrounded by festive decorations and offers a unique and romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal activity for couples and families.