Winter festivities in the city of lights wouldn’t have the same holiday cheer without the Christmas markets that pepper the icy streets in December. This beautiful city is fragrant with the smell of mulled wine and spices and lit by the apricot glow of scattered fairy lights from the Christmas stalls. Paris is turned into a winter wonderland with clusters of wood chalets offering gingerbread, meats and other traditional French delicacies. Visit one of these iconic markets and be infused with the Christmas spirit while shopping for treats or just taking a stroll.

No matter where you are in Paris you are bound to stumble across one of these merry markets so here is a list (just incase you don’t find one by accident) of the best markets on offer. Remember to check the times and dates of markets as they do tend to change.

It may also be prudent before you leave make sure you book up any hotels and events you wish to attend, you may also want to consider the best travel insurance for your journey. It may be a short one over the channel but it’s best to be careful especially this close to Christmas. Sites which offer travel insurance for people of all ages and destinations across the world include Insure and away.

So for twinkling blue lights, freshly brewed mulled cider, fir trees and stands that waft aromas of Christmas throughout the city, walk or take the Metro and stop by one of these enchanting markets.

Christmas market on the Avenue des Champs-Elysees

This is the largest market in Paris, stretching from Champs-Elysees roundabout to the Place de Concorde. Come here for your every Christmas need and enjoy the festive shacks full of delights.

Metro: Champs Elysées-Clemenceau or Concorde

Christmas Market and Ice Rink at Trocadero

With over 120 stands selling a charming array of Christmas goods, an ice skating rink and ‘snow villages’, this market is ideal for family outings.

Metro: Trocadero

Christmas Market at La Defense

In the surreal setting of high-rise buildings this 350 stand strong market pumps out jovial Christmas tunes and has the most celebratory decorations in Paris.

Metro/RER: La Défense

Christmas Market at Notre Dame Cathedral

For the first time in festive history a large market dedicated to arts, crafts and elegant cuisine will be setting up on the square outside Notre Dame Cathedral. Rumours circling Paris are that mulled wine, chestnuts and Santa Claus himself will be making an appearance at this square.

Metro/RER: St Michel or Cité

Christmas Market at the Montparnasse Tower

Buy your French delicacies at this special market in the historic Montparnasse district.

Metro: Montparnasse Bienvenue 

Christmas Market at the Place des Abbesses

This market, snug in the centre of vibrant Montmartre neighbourhood, will be open daily and is a real excuse to explore the diverse district.
Metro: Abbesses

Christmas Market and Santa’s Village at place Saint-Germain-des-Prés

This large market backs on to a quaint and beautifully designed grotto; complete with Santa, elves and a behind-the-scenes at the village’s workshop.
Metro: Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Christmas Market at Place de la Nation

This market is acutely traditional and sells a variety of goods for your every day Christmas season wants. Open daily from early December 1:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Metro/RER: Nation

One of these mirthful markets abundant with the Noel spirit is sure to fill your day with some much-needed Christmas cheer, so Joyeux Noel et bonne annee!