During the end-of-year holidays, Paris transforms into a true city of lights, offering a magical atmosphere for an unforgettable stay. Discover everything you can do during New Year's in the French capital, with ideas for neighborhoods to explore, activities to experience, and hotels to spend a pleasant New Year's Eve.
The best neighborhoods to celebrate the end of the year in Paris
Montmartre: With its picturesque streets and bohemian charm, Montmartre is the ideal place to stroll during the end-of-year holidays, especially around the Sacré-Cœur, which offers a panoramic view of illuminated Paris. Le Marais: Located between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, Le Marais represents the historic heart of the city. During the holidays, you can find charming shops and street artists there. Moreover, it is easy to reach Notre-Dame or the Centre Pompidou from this neighborhood. Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Another iconic neighborhood for the end-of-year holidays is Saint-Germain-des-Prés, which has a chic and literary atmosphere. You will also find numerous cafes and art galleries, as well as a Christmas market renowned for its mulled wine and gourmet specialties.
Activities not to be missed during the end-of-year holidays in Paris
Experience the magic of French illuminations
During the holidays, the City of Light lives up to its name with all the streets and monuments lit up. The Champs-Élysées are particularly majestic with their trees sparkling with a thousand lights, while the shop windows of the grand department stores on Boulevard Haussmann offer a dazzling spectacle for both young and old. Finally, the Eiffel Tower also shines brightly with a exceptional fireworks display for New Year's.
Discover Parisian Christmas markets
Paris offers many Christmas markets during the holiday season, and some are must-see. The Tuileries market is one of the most famous in the capital, while the one near Notre-Dame offers a magical atmosphere in front of the Gothic cathedral. Don't hesitate to also discover the Alsatian Christmas market at Gare de l'Est, which immerses you in the traditions of this French region.
Attend end-of-year shows and concerts in Paris
The holiday season is an opportunity to enjoy numerous shows and concerts of all kinds throughout the city. The Paris Opera and the Philharmonie offer exceptional performances to celebrate the New Year. Churches, such as Sainte-Chapelle or Notre-Dame de Paris, also organize concerts during this period.
Go ice skating in an enchanting setting
Several temporary ice rinks appear in Paris during the end-of-year holidays. Among them, the most famous is located in the Tuileries Gardens, with an unobstructed view of the Louvre and the illuminated Ferris wheel. Other ice rinks are set up at the foot of the Montparnasse Tower or in front of City Hall.
Hotels to spend an unforgettable New Year's Eve with family or friends in Paris
To fully enjoy the holidays, treat yourself to a stay in a prestigious hotel during your visit to Paris. Some establishments offer special packages for New Year's, including gourmet dinners, dance parties, or even personalized services such as private chauffeurs to take you to the must-see places in the City of Light during the holidays.
- Le Lutetia: Located in the chic neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this legendary hotel reopened in July 2018 after four years of renovations. It offers luxurious rooms and sumptuous public spaces, reflecting exceptional French savoir-faire.
- Le Bristol: With its 800 illuminated and dancing Baccarat chandeliers as the holidays approach, Le Bristol Paris is a choice address for a most luxurious stay, with special attentions and excellent service. A memorable program for an unforgettable evening!
- Ritz Paris: To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the Ritz Paris is preparing a memorable experience with exceptional preparations. You can also savor their magnificent Christmas log cake created by chef François Perret.
- Mandarin Oriental: Very festive for New Year's, the Mandarin Oriental, located near the wealthy Rue Saint-Honoré, offers a real enchanted interlude with its large Christmas tree reigning in the center of the magnificent lobby.
- Hôtel Coste: The soft glow, discreet murmur, discreet festive evenings, unexpected encounters—the bar of the Hôtel Costes creates a unique universe, an exclusive address nestled in the heart of one of the most chic and lively neighborhoods in central Paris.
Paris, the City of Light and eternal capital of romance, transforms during the end-of-year holidays to offer a magical and enchanting setting to all those fortunate enough to spend a few days there. Between the iconic neighborhoods, enchanting activities, and prestigious hotels, experience unforgettable moments during your New Year's celebration in the City of Light.