Strolling around the Christmas markets of Paris

As the year draws to a close, Paris takes on an air of magic. Illuminations twinkle in the streets and squares and Christmas markets spring up all through the city. If you’re in the mood for mulled wine, artisanal gifts and the opportunity to taste all kinds of seasonal delights, your Grand Hotel Saint-Michel will clue you in about the marchés de Noël, large and small, not to be missed.

The iconic Christmas markets

Some are simply essential. For example, the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Village, which is twenty years old this year. Since 1999, this market located by the church has welcomed visitors seeking a great selection of goods and a friendly atmosphere in which to do some Christmas shopping. Don’t forget the Notre-Dame Christmas Market, which takes place in the shadow of the mighty cathedral. Creatives, craftspeople and gastronomic artisans set up their stalls there every year; it's a seemingly bottomless resource for great gift ideas. You can also browse the market under the canopy of the Forum des Halles, the third largest shopping centre in France, where you’ll find artisanal and local produce aplenty.

Intimate Christmas markets

The capital's major Christmas villages are a major attraction, but bear in mind that there are other, smaller and more intimate festive markets deserving of your attention. The Recyclerie Christmas Market is a great example of ethical sustainability. Called Babel Voyages, on December 14th and 15th it will take you on an international journey with artisans from all over the world. There’s also the Christmas markets of the Pavillons des Canaux, and the Féeries d'Auteuil, taking place between December 7th and 15th, with their pony rides, vintage carousels and puppet shows. Anything else you’d like to know? Just ask the Grand Hotel Saint-Michel team. We’ll be delighted to help you discover the joys of the capital at Christmas.

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Grand Hotel Saint Michel, a refined hotel at the heart of Quartier Latin