Paris Christmas Illuminations and Local Festivities Private Tour

Paris , France

Paris Christmas Illuminations and Local Festivities Private Tour

Active

(43 reviews)

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Paris as you discover enchanting Christmas neighborhoods and landmarks through comfortable transportation and seasonal strolls: the dazzling Christmas garlands around Champs-Élysées, Opera & Vendome districts. Marvel at Galeries Lafayette's spectacular displays and towering Christmas tree, then warm up at Paris's premier Holiday market with mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Optionally, consider a magical ride on the Paris Ferris wheel for panoramic views. This addition is at your own expense while your guide's ticket is included.
• Cover more ground exploring Paris on foot and by taxi
• Savor mulled wine at a festive Holiday Market
• Discover Galeries Lafayette's famous displays
• Possible visit to Galeries Lafayette rooftop (subject to availability)
• Optional Ferris wheel ride (self-paid)
• Drive beneath stunning Christmas garlands
• Explore Vendôme/Opera neighborhoods
• Hassle-free Paris hotel pickup & drop-off included

Available options

Paris Christmas Illuminations and Local Festivities Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Professional Local guide

Taxi / Uber

If under 18: hot chocolate to keep you warm (or any drink of your choice)

Hot Spiced wine (Must be 18 and over)

Seasonal sweets

Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Paris city limits only)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Iconic department store magnificently decorated around Christmas time. We'll see the Christmas outdoor displays and go inside to admire a giant christmas three under the stained-glass dome. Possibility to go on the rooftop for a spectacular view of Paris (subject to availability)

ATTENTION DISCLAIMERS:
• December 25 (Christmas day) & January 1 (New year's day), the store will be closed. We'll only see the outdoor display.
• Galeries Lafayette decorations might be taken down as of January 1st. Yet the store will be open and rooftop available and the Christmas market at Tuileries is still running until January 7.

Stop 2

At Christmas time, those gardens between the Louvre museum and place de la Concorde become one of the major attractions with its huge Ferris wheel and seasonal holiday market. A must-do!

Stop 3

This prestigious place which hosts the Ritz hotel is one of the most beautifully Christmas decorated location of Paris.

Stop 4

You'll be chauffeured on one of the most dazzling avenues in the world, ornated of its Christmas lighting, and you'll see other gems along the way.

What's not included

Your Ferris wheel ride (20€ per adult / 12€ per child) - Your guide's ticket is included

Galeries Lafayette are closed on Dec 25 and January 1. Holiday market and Ferris wheel are open.

No pickups outside of Paris city limits (NO Airports, NO Disney)

Optional gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

24 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

19 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

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

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum drinking age is 18 years in France. Under 18, soft non-alcoholic drink will be substituted to mulled wine or any light alcohol beverage

Wear warm clothes! It is winter in France...and Christmas :-)

Wear comfortable shoes

This tour is maintained rain or shine

Galeries Lafayette are closed on December 25 (Christmas day) and January 1 (New Year's day). These two days, only the outdoor displays are availalble. Also, the holiday market and Ferris wheel are open

Galeries Lafayette decorations may be taken down after New Year's eve. Yet, the Paris illuminations and CHristmas market is still up until January 7.

Important notes

• Provide a phone number or any ways to easily reach you while you are in Paris.
• Provide the name of your hotel (and room number if you know it).
• If you use a Vacation rental (Airbnb, etc), provide us with your exact street address.

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