Catching the circus in Paris is an absolute must, and December is when all of the circuses come to town. There are a number of different big tops and theatres in Paris where you and your family can catch jaw-dropping performances, but here is a list of the best circuses in Paris to help you out. Choose between traditional circus performances and more modern interpretations like the Cirque de Soleil. If you’re visiting Paris in December and need a place to stay, take a look at these luxury apartment rentals in Paris that will be perfect for a Christmas vacation.
Whether you have gifts to buy, want to get in the festive spirit or fancy some mulled wine, the Christmas markets in Paris are an essential holiday experience. Most of the markets pop up at the end of November and run right through until the beginning of January, so whether you visit before or after Christmas, you’ll be able to experience the magic of the markets. Look out for handmade crafts which will make thoughtful gifts or souvenirs for yourself and be sure to stock up on French delicacies like cheese and charcuterie.
As December rolls around, you’ll notice lots of ice skating rinks in Paris popping up for you to practice your pirouettes on. So wrap up warm and hit one of the ice rinks for some festive fun.
Thanks to its status as a fashion capital, Paris is one of the best cities in the world for a shopping trip. Which means you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to buying Christmas gifts, or maybe just treating yourself. From the enchanting covered passages of Paris which are full of luxury boutiques and cafes, to trendy concept stores in Paris where you’ll find up-and-coming designer labels, you’re sure to find something you love. We love browsing the jewellery shops in Paris looking for unique treasures as well as sniffing around the best perfume stores in Paris where you’re guaranteed to find some lovely presents. If you want to be near the shops, then stay in one of these Paris apartments near all the best shopping areas and you won’t have to travel far for your retail therapy.
They say it's the most magical place on the planet and at Christmas, Disneyland Paris is even more magical than ever. For advice on how to get there and other practical things, read our guide to visiting Disneyland Paris and plan an excursion to the theme park. Just outside the city, it’s one of our favourite places to travel on the Eurostar and will be fun for everyone, including the adults!
December is all about indulgence and there’s no better place to indulge than in Paris. If you’re in the city on the 25th, check out the restaurants open in Paris on Christmas Day and get some ideas for where to eat. But if you’ve rented an apartment and feel like cooking at home, then head to one of the best grocery stores in Paris and stock up on some delicious groceries to make yourself a home-cooked meal. The rest of December, there are so many places to eat in Paris that you won’t know what to eat first. It might not be the most traditional of French meals, but why not seek out the best pizza in Paris and have something a bit unconventional? Or if you’re feeling adventurous, go to one of the many street food halls in Paris and try something more adventurous.
You only have to walk around the centre of Paris to soak upon the culture and history of the city. In fact, visiting one of the most beautiful parks in Paris is a wonderful way to enjoy some culture and see parts of the city that not all the tourists visit. Of course, there are also all the world-famous museums and galleries like the Louvre and the Pompidou which are must-visits for first timers in the city. If this is your first time in the city, stay in one of these luxury apartments in the centre of Paris so that you’re near all of the major sights.