Festive Paris and Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
Paris Christmas Markets: Magical and Cosy
More than 125 squares and streets in Paris glisten and glow with varied market stalls. The Paris Christmas markets are particularly enchanting at night when they glow in the darkness and warmth radiates from the food stalls. Potter along admiring the interesting gift options and sampling the wonderful foods. Many activities are available from ice skating and shopping to eating gingerbread and drinking mulled wine.
Perhaps visit the iconic Eiffel Tower or the atmospheric Louvre. Whether you love history or art, the myriad of world class museums are perfect for absorbing culture while warming up! Alternatively do your Christmas shopping – Paris is the perfect place! Between the luxury stores on the famous Champs Élysées and the handmade treasures of the markets, there’s something for everyone!
Festive Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is always spectacular but during Christmas, it is dressed to impress! Throughout the year, it is without doubt a beautiful palace but at Christmas it truly becomes a palace of enchantment. With magnificent trees, lights and traditional decorations covering the opulent rooms, it is the epitome of a grand Christmas. Adorned in a thousand and one colours, here you will really get into the Christmas spirit. Each room is decorated with a different theme but the warm atmosphere and stunning decorations make them all flow into one joyful and festive experience. Regal and tasteful, this festive charm will leave you bubbling with festive cheer.
Dates
Late November & December 2025
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in France
Transfer to your hotel from Calais after the ferry crossing, and if time permits head out to begin exploring the many wonderful Christmas markets. Perhaps seek out festive foods tonight. Explore the wooden chalets with their festive atmosphere and various foods to try. Visit the Féeries d’Auteuil for cheese, wine, champagne and beautiful nativity scenes. Head to Gare de l’Est to try delicacies brought over from the German-influenced Alsace region such as pretzels, spiced bread, gingerbread and more.
Day 2
Paris: Sightseeing and Markets
Today, explore the sights of Paris with the added magic of Christmas lights. We can also arrange a guide for extra insight into the city and its attractions. Visit the markets along the Champs Élysées with their colourful lights and beautiful gifts and presents. More than 200 wooden stalls are filled with regional specialities, decorations, and local souvenirs. Visit at night for the unforgettable views of the glittering lights. Also, visit the Christmas village at La Défense for decorations, trinkets and an ice skating rink.
Day 3
Grand Christmas at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
Spend the morning at leisure, enjoying the sights of Paris before heading to the spectacular Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte. This beautiful palace is wonderful throughout the year, but during the festive period it has an extra dash of magic and sparkle. With crackling fireplaces and more than 8,000 shining decorations, the exuberant but traditional Christmas dress throughout the palace is dazzling.
Day 4
Departure
Your time in festive Paris has drawn to a close. Commence your homeward journey full of festive cheer.
Suggested Hotels
ibis Styles Paris Gare de l’Est Chateau Landon ***
This hotel is around 200m from the Gare de l’Est and 500m yards from Gare du Nord. Soundproofed rooms feature air conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, and en suite bathrooms. The hotel has a bar and free WiFi throughout. Coach parking and drop off is available on-site.
(Other hotels available on request)
Departure date | 4 days / 3 nights |
Late November to December 2025 | Price on request |
Single supplement price on request