Paris at Christmas is pure magic — twinkling lights, decorated shop windows, and the smell of mulled wine in the air. But beyond the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées crowds, the city hides smaller, more intimate Christmas markets where you can soak up the festive spirit in peace.

Here’s your guide to the best Christmas markets in Paris — from the big, famous ones to the lesser-known local gems perfect for a calm December afternoon.

(📌 Note: Official dates for 2025 Christmas markets in Paris will be announced closer to the season. Most markets open in late November and run until early January — we’ll update this page as soon as they’re confirmed!)

 

 

The Most Famous Christmas Markets in Paris

These markets attract both locals and tourists — busy, but worth seeing at least once.

1. Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market (1st arrondissement)

Located next to the Louvre, this is one of Paris’s biggest holiday markets. Expect wooden chalets selling crafts, regional foods, ice skating, and plenty of lights.

Why visit: A classic Paris Christmas experience with funfair rides and festive atmosphere.
Tip: Go early in the day to avoid crowds.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (usually late November – early January)
📍 Location: Jardin des Tuileries, near the Louvre

 

2. La Défense Christmas Village

The business district of Paris turns into one of the largest Christmas markets in Île-de-France, with over 300 chalets.

Why visit: Huge variety of stalls, from handmade gifts to delicious Alsatian treats.
Tip: Visit at night for a magical contrast between glowing market stalls and skyscrapers.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (typically late November – December 28)
📍 Location: Parvis de La Défense

 

3. Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market (4th arrondissement)

Right in front of Paris City Hall, this charming market includes rides for children, food stands, and plenty of festive decorations.

Why visit: Central, festive, and family-friendly.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (usually December)
📍 Location: Place de l’Hôtel de Ville

 

4. Christmas Market at Quai Branly–Jacques-Chirac (7th arrondissement)

Nestled right by the Seine, in front of the iconic Eiffel Tower, the Christmas market at Quai Branly–Jacques-Chirac offers festive charm with significantly fewer crowds than the major tourist spots. With about 60 wooden chalets, stalls serve regional foods, artisanal crafts, and hot mulled wine—all with a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.

Why visit: Picturesque Location, Authentic Festive Atmosphere, Convenient & Accessible, and family-friendly

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (usually late November – early January)
📍 Location: Quai Jacques Chirac, 75007 Paris, France

 

 

Lesser-Known & Cozy Christmas Markets in Paris

If you prefer something quieter, these hidden gems offer a more authentic and relaxed holiday experience.

1. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market (6th arrondissement)

Smaller and elegant, this market focuses on fine food, artisanal gifts, and cozy charm in one of Paris’s most beautiful neighborhoods.

Why visit: Less crowded than Tuileries, with a refined Parisian atmosphere.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (usually late November – early January)
📍 Location: Boulevard Saint-Germain

 

2. Alsatian Christmas Market at Gare de l’Est (10th arrondissement)

Each year, vendors from Alsace bring specialties like bredele cookies, mulled wine, and sausages to this small but authentic market.

Why visit: Taste real Alsatian Christmas traditions without leaving Paris.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (typically early December)
📍 Location: Gare de l’Est

 

3. Square René Viviani Christmas Market (5th arrondissement, near Notre-Dame)

A tiny but atmospheric market next to one of Paris’s oldest trees and a beautiful medieval church.

Why visit: Intimate, photogenic, and perfect for a quiet December stroll.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed
📍 Location: Square René Viviani, Latin Quarter

 

7. Creators’ Christmas Market (various locations)

Instead of mass-produced souvenirs, this rotating market features local designers and artisans. Jewelry, ceramics, illustrations, and more.

Why visit: Ideal if you’re looking for unique Christmas gifts.

📅 2025 Dates: To be confirmed (usually early to mid-December)
📍 Locations vary across Paris