Why you want to go to Paris just NOW

Paris is of course always a good idea, but at Christmas... For years, I drove to Paris with my love during the period between Christmas and New Year's. A little sniffing at the roasted chestnuts, visiting galleries, buying things you don't need, and heading home with a full trunk. Of course, you don't have to go specifically at Christmas. But for everyone who loves Christmas and Paris – and I suspect you belong to both groups – the festivities start on 24-11 and you can do all of this:

The illumination of the Champs-Élysées

On 24-11, the Christmas lights are turned on at the Champs-Élysées and the festive season is officially opened. Of course, you won't be thrown in jail if you set up a little tree earlier, but from this moment on, things get lively in Paris. It's very special to be there.

Visit the passages

Paris has many beautiful passages, but with Christmas decorations, they are extra atmospheric. And dry and warm, that's nice too! Try Passage des Panoramas, Passage Jouffroy, Passage Verdeau, and perhaps the most beautiful: Galerie Vivienne.

Dining at the Moulin Rouge

Book a show at the Moulin Rouge and choose the gourmet dinner option. Enjoy a lovely meal while enjoying the show and champagne.

Christmas market on the Boulevard Saint-Germain

The little markets don't have much to offer – they all seem to sell the same things – but there are waffles, mulled wine, and cozy stalls with jars of Nutella that are huge.

Boat trip on the Seine

Choose carefully, as the offerings vary quite a bit. Some trips offer dinner, which can be a nice experience. Although you sometimes sit close together, Paris from the water, especially when lit up, is breathtakingly beautiful. A topless bus tour is also fun: a scarf high around your face and you are wonderfully anonymous.

Place Vendôme

Just peek at the Christmas tree and drool a little at Buccellati.

A candle from Costes

Lunch or have an aperitif in the courtyard of Costes and buy an iconic scented candle, so you carry this memory with you for another month.

The department stores

Bon Marché, La Fayette, Samaritaine, Printemps, Merci: one thing is for sure – they outdo each other with the most beautiful Christmas decorations.

Rue de Buci

Always my favorite street, but at Christmas just a little bit more.

Circus Bouglione

Located in the eleventh arrondissement, the circus offers a two-hour spectacle. Ideal to warm up and take a break from the cafes. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.

Image: Emily in Paris