“Eiffel in Love with Paris”- Christmas Season Edition

7 Day Itinerary for the Perfect Parisian Trip during the Christmas Season

Ohhh my very 1st travel blog…. HOW EXCITING! And what better place to start than with Paris. I will add content as I am learning but here goes some fun tips and tricks that I learned on my recent trip to Paris. I went just as the Christmas season started Nov 30th and got to see so many things in a different light. Most times that I went to Paris it was much warmer in the Spring and Summer. Paris is spectacular in the Winter, I hope you consider visiting this magical city during this time of the year.

Paris, the City of Lights, is a dazzling dream that sweeps you off your feet with its charming whimsy, storied past, and vibrant culture. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the picturesque banks of the Seine, this city knows how to capture your heart, like it has mine.

Official nameThe French Republic
Nicknames“The Hexagon” due to its six-sided shape
Population2.103 million (68.4 million in France)
CurrencyEuro (€)
Official LanguageFrench/ Le français
Best known forEiffel TowerLouvre MuseumArc de TriompheNotre Dame CathedralPalace of Versailles
Weather in December41-46°F (5-8°C). A crisp winter chill with the potential for light rain

Day 1: Arrival + Cozy Parisian Vibes

You can fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). It took about an hour to go from the airport into the center of Paris. Because I had all my luggage, I used an uber (the more expensive way to get into the city). Other ways would be to take the train such as the CDG Val or the RER B to get into the city. Depending on where you stay in Paris, I used Google Maps to map out how to get around the city.

  1. Check in to your cozy hotel (Please refer to my blog on best hotels in Paris for any budget)
  2. Stroll along the Seine River, admire Notre-Dame (reopened December 2024), and soak in the holiday decorations.
  3. Dinner at Le Temps des Cerises, a charming bistro with comforting French cuisine. Try the onion soup—it’s like a warm hug.

Day 2: Iconic Landmarks + Café Hopping

If you are a first-timer or a frequent visitor, visiting Paris’s iconic landmarks are a must. No matter how many times I visit this beautiful city, I never get enough of all the places this city has to offer. I listed some of my recommendations

Highlights:

  1. Start with a sunrise view of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro. Even better with a hot chocolate and croissant in hand!
  2. Head to the Louvre museum (One of the most visited museums in the world with over 35,000 objects on display… and did I mention the famous Mona Lisa… she and all her beauty is displayed here). — Keep note that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays and opens at 09:00 am. I recommend getting tickets ahead of time… It gets verryyyyy busy and you’ll want to skip the lines. You will thank me later!!!
  3. Explore the Garden of Palais Royal (outside of the Louvre)
  4. Option 1: Lunch at Maxime Frederic at Louis Vuitton (I loved the food and experience here)
    1. Option 2: Grab lunch at Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a favorite haunt of Hemingway.
  5. Head to Galeries Lafayette shopping mall to see the annual Christmas tree (there is a different theme every year)
  6. Head to the Opera Garnier at 5:00 pm for the “Mystery Tour” to see this beautiful place with fewer people and a fun way to learn about the opera house. Book ahead as it sells out quickly, you will need to book through the actual Opera Garnier website. Tour is available in different languages.

Day 3: Montmartre + Hidden Gems

Montmartre

Montmartre, perched atop a hill in northern Paris, is a charming neighborhood known for its bohemian history, stunning views, and artistic legacy. Once home to renowned artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Monet, it remains an artistic hub with lively street painters at Place du Tertre. The iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica crowns the hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Montmartre was also the birthplace of the can-can dance, famously performed at the Moulin Rouge. Its cobblestone streets, hidden vineyards, and vibrant cafés make it one of the most enchanting and picturesque spots in Paris.

Highlights:

  1. Starting point is in front of the Moulin Rouge.
  2. Walk up the hill on Rue Lepic street and wander the charming streets of Montmartre
  3. Turn right on Rue des Abbesses and head toward Place des Abbesses
  4. Visit Le mur des je t’aime (Wall of I Love You)
  5. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for stunning city views in front of the Basilica at Vue de Paris stairway and Square Louise Michel. (The Basilica entrance is free but lines can get pretty long – – but the line entrance goes fast)
  6. Explore quirky shops and grab lunch at Le Consulat, one of the oldest bistros in Paris.
  7. Check out the Musée de l’Orangerie in the afternoon—Monet’s Water Lilies are dreamy.
  8. Dinner at Pink Mamma, famous for Italian dishes in a stunning Instagram-worthy space (make reservations ahead of time to avoid the lines, you can make reservations 30 days in advance at: https://www.sevenrooms.com/explore/pinkmamma/reservations/create/search?_gl=1%2A194paz3%2A_gcl_au%2AMTU2OTY1MzQzNS4xNzM2OTk0Mjc1%2A_ga%2AODYyMzY0ODY4LjE3MzY5OTQyNzU.%2A_ga_LGT3JNPV79%2AMTczNjk5NDI3NC4xLjEuMTczNjk5NDI5Ni4zOC4wLjEzMTY5ODQyMDI.&tracking=bmg&venues=eastmamma%2Cpinkmamma%2Cobermamma%2Cmammaprimiparis%2Cbigloveparis%2Cpizzeriapopolarebourse%2Clibertinoparis

Stay tuned- I will write a review on Pink Mamma and post it soon

Day 4: Paris History + High End Shopping {window}

Paris is known for their high end fashion. Whether you want to enjoy luxury shopping or look around, it is worthwhile to visit these areas during the Christmas season for the beautiful lights and decorations places like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and the iconic Dior flagship stores have to offer, especially on Avenue Montaigne and Rue Saint-Honoré. Known as the “Golden Triangle”, this glamorous stretch is where luxury and dreams come true for those who love shopping.

Highlights:

  1. Start your day with visit to Musee d’ Orsay (Note: The museum is closed on Mondays)
  2. Stop for lunch at Café Campana in the museum just outside the impressionist Gallery
  3. Head to Sainte-Chapelle (Holy Chapel) to view the beautiful Gothic-style stained glass windows (15 widows with 1113 scenes of the Old and New Testament- – it is absolutely gorgeous inside!!!)
  4. Take a short walk over to Notre Dame (recently re-opened in December 2024 after the devastating fires in April 2019).
  5. Head over to the Pantheon for some pictures
  6. Spend the evening strolling the luxurious Avenue Montaigne and Rue Saint-Honoré for high-end shopping. Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton—you’ll find it all here! I went to see DIOR Paris 30 Montaigne and the Christmas Dior was spectacular. Inside there is also a café and restaurant (reservations needed of course).

Fun notes: If you are a “Emily in Paris” fan… Emily’s Paris house is just a street over from the Pantheon if you want to take a quick photo (Its on Place de l’Estrapade)

Day 5: A Half day trip to Château de Versailles + Christmas Markets

Highlights:

  1. Head to Château de Versailles for a half day tour of the beautiful palace and palace grounds. Make sure to book a visit to Château de Versailles ahead of time.
  2. In the evening, explore the Tuileries Garden Christmas Market. Treat yourself to mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts.

Tips: Make sure to check out my blog on “Different Ways to get to the Château de Versailles from Paris”. I have taken a tourist bus, guided tour, and lastly hopped on the train. I personally enjoyed the train ride the most and it was very easy to maneuver.

Day 6: Disneyland Paris + Christmas Magic

When I went to Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios, I stayed closer to the park to be able to enjoy my time here and not have to travel to and from Paris. Although it is an easy hour train ride from the city if you decide to remain in Paris.

Highlights:

  1. Grab an early train to Disneyland Paris and prepare for an enchanting holiday experience.
  2. Stroll through the Christmas-themed Main Street USA, decked out with festive garlands and snow-dusted décor.
  3. Dinner at “Walt’s- An American Restaurant – Now I know… why come to Paris to eat American food lol but the food was actually very good. And if it wasn’t for Walt Disney, none of this would be possible.
  4. End the day with the Disney Enchanted Christmas Parade and fireworks.

Bliss Tips: Buy a Disney Premier Access Pass so you can make use of your time and be able to get on the rides you want.

Day 7: Walt Disney Studios

Highlights:

  1. Explore Walt Disney Studios, including a ride on Crush’s Coaster and Ratatouille: The Adventure.
  2. Snap a million photos of the gigantic Christmas tree in Studio 1.
  3. Lunch or Dinner at Bistrot Chez Rémy in Walt Disney Studios—where everything is Ratatouille-sized. Yes, you’ll feel like a tiny chef! I absolutely loved the experience there. All the decor was extra large so it made you really feel rat-sized. You can book 60 days in advance, and it really does get booked fast. RECOMMENDED

TIPS: Best rides at Walt Disney Studios

  1. Avengers Assemble: Flight Force (My personal favorite!!) – Fastest ride at Disneyland Parks in Paris. It reminded me of Space Mountain but sooo much more fun! I went on it twice because I loved it so much
  2. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror (I will always love this ride in all the parks!!)

Day 8 +: Farewell Paris

Other Options for your stay in Paris

Spending your last day revisiting your favorites in Paris

  1. Brunch at Carette near Place des Vosges—croissants and hot chocolate to die for
  2. End your trip with a glamorous farewell dinner at Le Jules Verne, perched inside the Eiffel Tower.
  3. Spend time at Luxembourg Gardens
  4. High end bargain shopping at La Vallee Village (located near Paris Disney)

Pro Tips for Paris in December:

• Pack: Umbrella (for surprise drizzles), thermal layers, and chic walking shoes.

• Must-Try Food: Raclette, crêpes, and macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.

• Souvenirs: A bottle of French wine, artisanal soaps, or chic scarves.

Pro Tips for Paris in December:

Paris Tourist Passes – SOOO many choices, what to choose?

Experience Paris by choosing one of the Paris Visitor Passes that unlocks exploration in the City of Lights! MY FAVORITE is “Go City” All-inclusive passes. It is expensive but covers ALL things if you are only in Paris for a short time and want to see as much as you can. It includes the Paris Museum Pass for more iconic attractions. The convenient “Go City” app helps you navigate and enhance your Paris experience!

Stay tuned for a detailed chart on all Paris Tourist Passes to compare what is best for you. (I promise to have one up as soon as I figure it out).

“TheFork” App

TheFork app is an online platform in Europe for booking restaurant reservations, much like OpenTable. It is the go-to app for finding and reserving dining experiences in Europe in cities such as Paris, Vienne, Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome, London. The app is owned by TripAdvisor company. It was very easy to use and far more superb then OpenTable in my opinion. They also have a Michelin Guide for those wanting to reserve a fine dining experience (based on availability of course!).

IDF (île de France) Mobilités App

Paris has started to use electronic forms of tickets for the train (metro/train/RER) and bus. I was so worried about going to the train station and having to figure out how to get a day pass or multiple tickets for the day. The IDF makes it easy for you to purchase your tickets ahead of time and scan into the train/bus using your phone. Soooo much easier. The app also allows you to find your destination and routes to get there (although I felt good old Google Maps was easier to find where I needed to go- mostly because I am more familiar with it).

When you download the app, you just need to Sign-In using your email address and create a password (like any other app). Once you are in, you go to the bottom right icon “MySpace” and go to the “My Navigo” area that says “My tickets on mobile” (there is also a option for “My Other Plans” in the event you bought a Navigo ticket at a store or at the station). From there you can go to “Buy a ticket.”

  1. Single Tickets – to buy tickets for one trip. Single tickets for Metro-Train run about €2.50. Bus-Tram tickets are €2.

  2. Day Tickets- to buy tickets to travel for 1-7 days. A 1-day Pass is about €12 (Zone 1-5).

  3. Package- Buy and travel without limits depending on chosen duration (these cover zones 1-5). In many cases, if you are just going around Paris you will only need Zone 1-3). Château de Versailles (Palace of Versailles) and the famous gardens are in Zone 4. Parc Disneyland/Walt Disney Studies Park are in Zone 5.

Paris “Metro” trains- mainly used within the inner city parts of Paris. Has Metro lines numbered 1-14. The Metro is smaller and can get quite crowded during peak hours.

The RER (Réseau Express Régional)- includes lines A, B, C connecting the city to the suburbs and airports. Typically larger and air-conditioned to cater to commuters.

Tramway – mainly in the suburbs. Includes T-lines 1-13. In many cases you will be using either the RER or Metro within Paris

Bus- Buses run throughout the city, only problem is they can easily get stuck in Paris Traffic depending on the hour.

TAKE AWAYS:
Get a Paris Pass: If you have a short amount of time in Paris and want to see it all. Might save you a little $$. But if you want to see only a couple of things, then you can always get single tickets to the places you want to go. DON’T forget that entrance for places like the Louvre, Palace of Versailles, Arc de Triomph, you will need to buy tickets a head of time (OR ELSE YOU WILL BE IN THE HIDEOUS LINE… Don’t say I didn’t warn you).
You must try Parisian Food: If you are not much of an adventurist when it comes to food… at the very least try a delicious fresh, buttery croissants, Croque-monsieur (you can never go wrong with a grilled ham and cheese sandwich), and Crêpes: Thin pancakes that are filled with sweet or savory ingredients. If you feel more adventurous try another Paris favorite from the list above.
Walk and explore: Paris is full of culture and history. There is history everywhere you walk and explore. It is truly captivating. If you are not a history junkie, there is AMAZING places to shop as well. There is so many wonderful things to see. Paris is a extremely walkable city so enjoy!!!