While the charms of Paris cross all seasons and defy all weather conditions, theres no doubt that Christmas time in the City of Lights is uniquely special. At once cosy and active, the sights and smells are bound to fill the whole family with festive cheer and a suitable appetite for presents, fun and turkey! As ever in Paris, theres loads for the kids to do too.
Here are 5 good reasons to think about heading to Paris this winter to celebrate Christmas:
Xmas is all around
Its at Christmas that you get to experience the glittering lights of the Champs lyses from the giant ferris-wheel in the Tuileries Garden one of the most magical views there is over Paris! You can also saunter along to the Grands Magasins to see the animated window displays with puppets and music, not to mention the ice rink on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, 57 metres above the River Seine.
To make sure you dont get homesick at this special time, you can expect apartments with a Christmas tree ready at your arrival, and Christmas dinner delivered straight to your door!
Indoor Paris
To warm up from the winter cold, Paris has many indoor attractions for the whole family to enjoy. And we are not just talking museums there are bread baking classes, painting lessons and science events ready to be discovered. And why not lift the Christmas spirit with a seasonal event, like a traditional circus performance in the worlds oldest circus?
You can also experience getting around the city whilst sheltered from the cold, maybe in a covered horse-drawn carriage or a classic Citron 2CV ideal for tired and chilly little toes!
Paris wonderful for Christmas shopping
Need some last minute present inspiration? Time to browse the shops!
Designer childrens clothes, macaroons from the best boulangeries and even jewelery from the famous Place Vendme the choices are endless. And no doubt you will feel a Christmas atmosphere throughout the different shops, with a whole range of childrens entertainment at this festive time of year.
A good excuse to indulge in some comfort food
The food has to be an essential part of your break in Paris at Christmas time, and your children will be first in line to enjoy it. The chilly winter will be a good excuse to stop in cafs and enjoy hot chocolate with a croissant to dip in it, sweet crpes and tartines laden with jam, or madeleines with a nice warming cup of tea.
Best time for events
All the best exhibitions will be on at this time of year. Whether you are a fan of Czanne, Oscar Wilde or Chinese culture, youll be able to enter the Louvre or the Muse dOrsay to share your passion with your whole family. If you need a bit of help to make the masterpieces more fun or accessible for your children, treasure hunts and other guided visits are available.
Just follow the guiding star and jump on your sleigh to Paris this Christmas!
