If the idea of spending this Christmas with aged relatives, screaming children and a family fight over the brussel sprouts leaves you feeling a little lacking in holiday cheer, why not leave it all behind and embrace a Christmas in Paris. Paris offers a range of magical Christmas experiences, that will rekindle your holiday spirit and having you ‘ho, ho, ho-ing’ into the New Year.
Don’t be a Grinch
Paris has amazing Christmas markets which sell a wide variety of traditional Christmas foods, Vin Chaude (mulled wine) and trinkets. Markets are the perfect place to pick-up those last minute Christmas gifts and souvenirs. There are a number of markets throughout the city, but my personal favourite is located at the Grand Arch in La Defense as it has some truly charming stalls and Paris’ best roast chestnuts.
If traditional trinkets aren’t your cup of tea, you can make your way from the Grand Arch to the many shops and department stores throughout Paris. While you will find your usual fare of designer and high street brands, it is worthwhile checking out the smaller boutiques as they create amazing Christmas window dressings with dazzling light displays.
See Paris in a different light
One of the highlights of the holiday season in Paris is seeing it decked out in extravagant Christmas-themed lights. All your favourite sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs Élysées sparkle throughout the month of December creating a fantastic backdrop to your holiday. An absolute must-see being Paris’ Christmas tree, located at Notre Dame.
Although the religious element of Christmas is not of interest to everyone, the Christmas Eve midnight masses and carolling choirs are a fantastic way to join in the celebrations of the Parisian community. While the traditional services at the Notre Dame are an amazing cultural experience, I personally prefer to attend a mass at one of Paris’ lesser known churches which are more intimate.
An ice way to spend an afternoon
During the month of December, a large number of ice rinks pop up around the city and are the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Reasonably priced (often the only cost is renting the skates) and open to young and old, there really is no excuse to miss this fun-filled activity while you are in Paris. Just don’t forget to dress in warm layers and have a big glass of Vin Chaude once you are finished.
Paris is a fantastic place to spend Christmas but do not forget that this is a holiday season for Parisians as well, and while there are many things open throughout the holiday, it is best to plan your Christmas Day carefully. Ensure that the places you have planned to go are open and that transport is running. I would also recommend booking a restaurant for your Christmas meal, as you do not want to be caught short and end up eating a club sandwich from room service that will have you longing for your mother’s home cooked turkey.
Before booking your flight, consider how you’re going to pay for the ticket; using travel credit cards allow you to not only pay for your flight, but also earn you extra Avios points for a second trip. If you’re planning a trip, try to find the best travel rewards credit card on offer from American Express. You may even be able to use your rewards for an extra little Christmas present!
The author of this article is part of a blogging team that works with brands like American Express. The content contained is for information purposes only and should not be used to make any financial decisions.
