Paris Christmas Tour with a Local Guide: Custom & Private

Paris , France

Paris Christmas Tour with a Local Guide: Custom & Private

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(8 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Imagine spending Christmas in Paris, made even more magical, with a local host guiding you through Le Marais's festive splendor. Your host, an expert on this enchanting neighborhood, will navigate the cobbled lanes, unveiling stories behind every luminous fairy light and captivating Christmas display.

As the chill sets in, they'll lead you to cozy spots for spiced wine or chocolat chaud. Together, you'll explore bustling Christmas markets, unearthing unique treasures and delectable treats. Perhaps even snag a Parisian ornament with their insightful guidance.

Then, there's the food—discover bakeries only locals know, tasting Paris's most delectable festive delights, from unique gingerbread to dreamy chocolate Yule logs.

Immerse in all the Parisian holiday traditions as your host shares tales and traditions. It's not mere sightseeing; it's experiencing and feeling the true Parisian Christmas spirit.

Available options

Paris Christmas Tour

Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Private and personalized experience

Walking experience

A cup of hot chocolate, mulled wine to warm up or a soft drink per person

3 hours with a host

Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Detailed itinerary

Kick-off at Paris’s iconic City Hall, the Hôtel de Ville. Here, with the landmark's imposing architecture as your backdrop, your host will introduce you to the enchanting world of Le Marais, sharing tales of its transformation and the significance of this grand building.

Get that festive feeling as you and your host weave through the beloved Christmas market near Notre Dame. Lit-up stalls, artisanal crafts, and the enticing scent of mulled wine and gingerbread will set the mood.

Meander along Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, a storied street filled with independent boutiques and artisanal shops. With your host guiding the way, discover unique gifts and treasures, and enjoy the festive window displays that the street's boutiques have put up for the season.

Experience the Christmas magic at BHV Marais, an iconic Parisian department store. Your host will guide you through its festive displays, pointing out special finds that make for perfect gifts. Here, the spirit of a Parisian Christmas truly comes alive.

Stop 5 Pass by

Step into the tranquil beauty of the Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis Church. As you bask in its architectural grace, your host will share tales of historic happenings and Parisian Christmas legends tied to this sacred space.

What's not included

Additional food and drinks from the ones provided in the experience

Tickets to any attractions

Transportation costs

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please book at least 48 hours in advance so that we can build the best experience for you

Meeting point

Your meeting point is flexible, and to be agreed with your Local Host. Meet-up at your hotel or accommodation can be requested, or your Local Host will meet you at a convenient location close to the start of your experience.

Meeting point

After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you

About Paris

Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.

Top Attractions

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours €17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)

Louvre Museum

The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Museum 3-4 hours €17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)

Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Cultural Half-day Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.

Historical Full day €18-€28 (depending on the pass)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Croissant

A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.

Breakfast Contains gluten and dairy

Baguette

A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains gluten

Steak Frites

A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat

Crêpes

Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.

Snack/Dessert Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon rides Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest Kayaking on the Seine Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden Boat tours on the Seine Spa day at a luxury hotel Visiting museums and galleries Attending a cabaret show

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center

By train

Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon

By bus

Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot

Getting around

Public transport

The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, G7

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Le Marais Montmartre Latin Quarter Saint-Germain-des-Prés Champs-Élysées

Day trips

Versailles

17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.

Giverny

75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day

Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.

Château de Fontainebleau

55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day

The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.

Festivals

Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual) Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual) Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely