Visiting Paris in December

Paris is always a good idea, no matter the time of year. Still, some may argue that December is the best time in the City of Lights because, in addition to the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, you’ll find wonderful Christmas markets, the Champs-Élysées covered in holiday lights, and a one-of-a-kind celebration beneath the Arc de Triomphe for New Year’s Eve. The Parisian holidays are like no other in Europe. Is this your first time spending winter in the French capital? Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Paris in December. 🇫🇷

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TLDR

1. About Paris in December
2. Best places to take photos
3. Must-see museums and art galleries
4. Cafés and restaurants to savour French cuisine
5. Events and activities that bring the season to life
6. Day trips to adventure outside of Paris
7. Capture memories with a Flytographer photoshoot
8. Frequently asked questions

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Maxine and family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot at Trocadéro.

1. Why visit Paris in December

December marks the beginning of winter in Paris. Yes, the cold weather is in full swing, but beyond scarves and sweaters, the city’s holiday spirit will warm you up. This time of year, the City of Lights truly lives up to its title, illuminated by sparkling holiday lights. ✨ From the iconic Champs-Élysées’ Illuminations de Noël and vibrant Christmas markets to the extravagant window displays at department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann, Paris is pure magic in December. 🎄

Besides, if things get a bit too chilly for outdoor sightseeing, don’t worry. In Paris, you’re never far from a grand museum, a charming boutique, or a cozy Parisian café to warm you up. And what better excuse for a glass of French wine, right? 🍷

Extra Fly tip: Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Paris can be quite busy. If you’d like to experience smaller crowds (and more affordable hotel prices), plan your visit between late November and the second week of December — you’ll still get plenty of the festive vibe. 👌

2. Best places to take photos in Paris

When it comes to Paris, it’s impossible to pick favourites; photo pros feel like they’ve hit the jackpot at every turn. But if this is your first visit, it’s a good idea to recap some of the must-see attractions that are nothing short of a feast for the eyes — and perfect for any photoshoot. 🤳

• The Eiffel Tower: This one needs no introduction, but did you know there are some special vantage points in the city to capture iconic views of the Eiffel Tower? These include Trocadéro and Champ de Mars for up-close shots, and Bir-Hakeim Bridge and Pont Alexandre III for different angles with a bit of the Seine River in your shot. Ah, Paris! ♥️
• The Louvre Museum & Tuileries Gardens: This combo offers more classic, postcard-worthy backdrops for epic photos. From the tree-lined promenades with statues and fountains in the Tuileries Gardens to the legendary glass pyramid surrounded by the Louvre Palace’s grand facades, this is the epitome of Parisian grandeur. 🖼️
• Île St-Louis & Notre Dame Cathedral: Didn’t we say it was hard to pick favourites? Île St-Louis is not only home to the world’s most famous Gothic church but also to picturesque cobblestone streets and peaceful riverbanks along the Seine. ⛪
• Montmartre & Sacré-Coeur: Montmartre is synonymous with Parisian artistic and bohemian life, and it’s home to the majestic Sacré-Cœur, from where you can also enjoy breathtaking vistas of the city from the top. 🧑‍🎨
• The Latin Quarter: Once the bohemian heart of Paris inhabited by writers and artists, the Latin Quarter now houses an eclectic array of shops, cafés, and iconic architecture. Sitting close to Paris’s Latin Quarter, the Luxembourg Gardens feature stunning backdrops like the Medici Fountain and the 17th-century Palais du Luxembourg, making it a lovely alternative for garden photos. ⛲

There’s more; much more. For some extra inspiration, check out our blog on the top 10 places to take photos in Paris.

Photo: Kirill in Paris for Flytographer. Heather and family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower.

3. Paris museums & art galleries to visit

Paris is home to some of the most famous museums on Earth, and many of these institutions often hold special exhibits during the holiday season. Here are our favourite museums in Paris: 👇

• Louvre Museum: Say bonjour to the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, and try to explore as much as you can from the museum’s impressive collection of over 300,000 objects and nearly 35,000 artworks on display. Extra tip: The museum is free to visit on the first Sunday of each month. 🎟️
• Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former train station along the Seine, the Musée d’Orsay features an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Degas, Van Gogh, and Cézanne. Don’t miss Claude Monet’s stunning water lilies — who said flowers don’t bloom in Paris during winter? Just make sure to take a step back for a better “impression.” 😉
• Centre Pompidou: From its eccentric architecture to its must-see modern art collection, the Pompidou is a visual spectacle in every way. Here, you’ll find masterpieces by the likes of Picasso, Duchamp, Pollock, and Andy Warhol. 🎨
• Palais de Tokyo: If you want to see contemporary art, the Palais de Tokyo is your go-to spot. This museum has no permanent collection but hosts fantastic temporary exhibitions and cultural programs that you usually don’t read about in the guidebooks. 👍

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Veronica and family capture memories in Paris with a family photoshoot at the Louvre.

4. Cafes & restaurants in Paris

One of the highlights of any trip to Paris is exploring the city’s culinary delights. Whether you’re cozying up in one of the city’s iconic bistros, savouring a hearty Boeuf Bourguignon, or indulging in a perfectly golden, crispy croissant at a café, you’re in for a treat. 🥐

Some of the most famous cafés and restaurants in the city include Chez Janou in the trendy Le Marais neighbourhood, Café des Deux Moulins (famous from the movie Amélie), and historic gems like Les Deux Magots, Le Procope, and Café de Flore — one of the oldest and most iconic cafés in Paris. 

December is also the perfect time to indulge in a cup of chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) paired with delicious pastries in incredible spots like Angelina, Ladurée, Café Pouchkine, and Le Café Marly. Voilà. That’s all you need to satisfy your taste buds. 🍫

Fly tip: How about a food tour following in the footsteps of Emily in Paris? Dine at Bistro Terra Nera or Gabriel’s Restaurant from the show, and enjoy a pain au chocolat at La Boulangerie Moderne just next door. Want more? Explore the bustling and vibrant neighbourhood in the ninth arrondissement to fully immerse yourself in Emily’s Paris.  🎬

Photo: Leo in Paris for Flytographer. Margie and partner capture memories with a couples photoshoot in the streets of Paris.

5. Seasonal events & activities in Paris

Paris offers a variety of events and activities during the holidays, making the festive atmosphere even more captivating. For starters, the Christmas markets are among some of Europe’s best. The Magic of Christmas at Tuileries Garden, for one, is the perfect opportunity to indulge in seasonal treats, take pics in front of the twinkling Christmas tree, and ride the gigantic Ferris wheel for dazzling views of the city. 🎡

Another must-do in Paris in December? Tie up your skates and glide across the ice at the beautiful rink in front of Hôtel de Ville, Paris City Hall. From mid-December onwards, the square transforms into a magical ice skating rink, and it’s considered one of the best winter activities in the city. With that stunning backdrop, this will undoubtedly be one of your most stylish ice skating experiences.

And speaking of one-of-a-kind events, we can’t forget New Year’s Eve at the Champs-Élysées, the perfect way to wrap up December in Paris. This is truly one of those experiences you should have at least once in your life. Welcome the new year with music, street performances, and a spectacular light and fireworks show, all by one of the most iconic landmarks in the world — the Arc de Triomphe. 🎆

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Marian and partner capture memories during the holidays in Paris with a couples photoshoot.

6. Day trips from Paris

Looking for a quick getaway from the city? There are many incredible day trips you can take from Paris. From experiencing the grandeur of French history to enjoying theme rides in a world of imagination and wonder, here are our top three out-of-the-city adventures to add to your itinerary in December:

• The Palace of Versailles: Just a 40-minute train ride from Paris, Versailles is the most popular day trip from the French capital. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a sight to behold, with its fairy-tale gardens and opulent interiors. 👑 From the iconic Hall of Mirrors to the Petit Trianon, surrounded by beautiful English-style gardens, and the rustic charm of Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a visit to Versailles will enchant you at every turn. The best part? December sees fewer crowds, allowing you to explore the palace without the usual sea of tourists.
• Fontainebleau: This charming town, located about an hour from Paris, is known for the gorgeous Château de Fontainebleau. The palace, which boasts a striking blend of Renaissance and classical architecture, features over a thousand rooms, making it ideal for indoor exploration during colder or rainy days. 🏰
• Paris Disneyland: Paris and Disneyland — a match made in fairytale land. Also a 40-minute train ride from the city, Disneyland Paris is absolutely worth the day trip, especially in December when the park is adorned with holiday lights and decorations — and, once again, the crowds are smaller. 🎠

Photo: Mary in Paris for Flytographer. Matt and partner capture their engagement at the Palace of Versailles outside of Paris.

7. Book a Flytographer photoshoot in Paris

They say December in Paris is like being in a movie, but what about making it a photoshoot instead? 🤔 You can transform your memories of Paris into unique souvenirs with a Flytographer photoshoot. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re practically a Parisian, this is the perfect chance to strike your best pose and let our local photographers capture you against the beautiful backdrop of the city.

Flytographer photoshoots are perfect for special occasions, like a long-awaited trip, or to document those unforgettable moments. Want to know what we’re thinking? Romantic proposals in Paris. How could you possibly make that “yes” moment even more special? 💍

Photo: Olga in Paris for Flytographer. Genesis and partner capture memories in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

FAQ

How cold does it get in Paris in December?

In December, Paris typically experiences chilly winter temperatures, with average lows around 3°C (37°F) and highs around 8°C (46°F). While snowfall is relatively rare, the city can occasionally see freezing temperatures, especially at night.

What date do the Christmas markets start in Paris?

The Christmas markets in Paris usually open in late November, with most starting between November 20th and December 1st. The exact opening dates can vary slightly each year and between different market locations throughout the city.

How should I dress for Paris in December?

Layer warm clothing including a heavy coat, sweater, scarf, gloves, and waterproof boots. Pack some dressy options for evenings out, as Parisians tend to dress stylishly even in winter. For more style inspiration, check out our official Style Guide!

Is the Eiffel Tower closed in December?

The Eiffel Tower remains open in December, operating daily from 9:30 AM to 10:45 PM (11:45 PM on weekends). However, it may close temporarily during severe weather conditions for safety reasons.

Photo: Rachael in Paris for Flytographer. Ann and friend capture memories together with a BFF photoshoot by the Eiffel Tower.

Capturing Memories in Paris

Paris is one of a kind, but do you know which other European city is also amazing at the end of the year? Rome! If you’re thinking of combining your trip to France with another country, we highly recommend Italy. 🇮🇹 For more inspiration on winter wonderlands in Europe, take a look at our blog on the top 10 best European cities to visit in winter.

Wherever your journey takes you, our local photographers are ready to capture your best memories in over 350 destinations in Europe and around the globe. 🌏