If you’re dreaming of Paris during the holiday season, but can’t make it there in person, why not take a virtual vacation? Our round-up photos of the best Christmas decorations, displays and lights in Paris this year, from the chic 2019 holiday store windows to luxury hotels to Christmas trees. Here’s a glimpse of a sparkling city decorated beautifully for the holiday season.
what are the best Christmas decorations in Paris this year?
Paris is swoon-worthy anytime of year, but it glows with a special grandeur and brilliance during the holidays. We like to think of it as the O.G. of Christmas haute décor.
From its famous landmarks to luxury department stores and posh hotels, there is more than enough festive cheer in this year’s Paris Illuminations to lift your spirits, even if it’s only from behind a computer screen.
If you’re dreaming of a holiday in Paris but can’t make it there in person, why not make yourself a cup of chocolat chaud and come take a virtual vacation in the City of Light?
Here are our favorite – and arguably the best – 2019 Christmas decorations in Paris.
Famous Streets and Landmarks
1. Champs Élysées
Setting the mood for the entire city, the famous avenue often considered the most beautiful in the world, has 400 trees ablaze in a wonderland of lights.
The best Christmas decorations in Paris this year: the Champs-Élysées.
2. Avenue Montaigne
Delicate and ethereal lights float above Paris’ top couturier showrooms.
The best Christmas decorations in Paris this year: Avenue Montaige.
3. Boulevard Haussmann
The famous shopping boulevard razzles and dazzles.
The best Christmas decorations in Paris this year: Boulevard Haussman.
4. Bercy Village
This year’s theme “A Forest and Its Secrets” imagines the village as a enchanted wood.
The best holiday lights in Paris this year: Bercy Village.
It’s complete with fantastic animals, charming lights and a castle that fits right in with stone streets.
5. Jardin des Plantes- National Museum of Natural History
While not entirely Christmas themed, the “Illuminated Ocean” is still a hit with children and the young at heart.
The best holiday lights in Paris this year: Jardin des Plantes.
A moonlit stroll through the garden reveals the splendor and mysteries of the sea.
6. Place Vendome
Two perfect conical trees preside over the prestigious, elegantly lit central court.
The best Christmas trees in Paris this year: Place Vendome.
7. La Defense
Just outside Paris in the business district, the largest and most flamboyant Christmas decorations await.
The best Christmas trees in Paris this year: La Defense.
8. Palais Garnier Opera House
For sheer opulence and drama, no tree rivals the grandiose Christmas tree set inside the Baroque beauty.
The best Christmas trees in Paris this year: Paris Opera Garnier.
Department Stores and Boutiques
1. Galeries Lafayette
This historic French department store is always at the top of any ‘best of’ Christmas decoration list.
The best Christmas trees in Paris this year: Galeries Lafayette.
This year, the store is buzzing with Christmas cheer with the inventive theme of a Christmas beehive.
2. Printemps
Sprung from fairy tales, the windows at Printemps are playful and dreamy, with 60 animal puppets involved in various amusing and magical scenarios.
The best holiday store windows in Paris this year: Printemps.
3. Bon Marche
We hate to play favorites, but Bon Marché is by far our favorite luxury department store in Paris.
The best Christmas trees in Paris this year: Bon Marche.
This year for the holiday, trees take center stage in childhood storybook scenarios. Truly magical!
4. BHV Marais
Inspired by Strasbourg, the capital of Christmas markets, BHV is filled with Alsatian charm of rustic woodsy decor and soothing neutral tones.
The best holiday store windows in Paris this year: BHV.
5. Dior
Outside Dior, a pristine tree towers over the Avenue Montaigne. A glittering menagerie of animals find shelter in the fluffy white branches.
The best Christmas decorations in Paris: the Dior store on Avenue Montaigne.
6. Louis Vuitton
The massive golden sun is sure to warm the hearts of pedestrians and shoppers in the darkest and coldest days of the year.
The best holiday store windows in Paris this year: Louis Vuitton.
7. Galerie Vivenne
One of the most beautiful covered arcades in Paris. We love the magical combination of its mosaic tiled floor, glass roof and Christmas lights.
The best holiday store windows in Paris this year: Galerie Vivienne.
8. Le Village Royal
This “secret” passageway with luxury boutiques features adorable teddy bears and balloon sculptures for a dose of Christmas whimsy.
Hotels
1. Ritz Paris
The Ritz can always be counted on to be delightfully opulent and festive.
The best Christmas decorations Paris 2019: the Ritz.
2. Four Seasons Hotel George V
The George V is the epitome of Parisian luxury, and this holiday is no exception. Shimmering modern sculpted reindeer and golden tree and baubles shine oh-so brightly in this Christmas dream.
The best Christmas decorations Paris 2019: the Four Seasons George V.
3. The Peninsula
Elegant and traditional, the Peninsula features a ‘Stories from the Tree’ theme.
The best Christmas decorations Paris 2019: the Peninsula.
Colorful and beloved characters like the Nutcracker and Gingerbread Man, who adorn all the displays throughout the storied establishment.
4. The Bristol
Hotel Le Bristol is a glittering jewel, and every year it seems to shine even more brightly. This year, the Christmas trees in the hotel’s garden are dripping in Baccarat crystal.
The best holiday lights and Christmas displays in Paris this year: Le Bristol.
5. Hôtel de Crillon
This timeless hotel is picture perfect all year round. But at Christmas, it makes us feel like we’re starring in a movie.
The best holiday lights and Christmas displays in Paris 2019: Hotel de Crillon.
6. Plaza Athénée
It’s hard to top this winter wonderland. It even boasts its own private ice skating rink surrounded by twinkling Christmas trees.
The best holiday lights and Christmas displays in Paris 2019: Plaza Athenee.
7. Mandarin Oriental
Hot pink, gold and purple are the color palette in this year’s Mandarin Oriental Paris holiday decorations.
The best holiday lights and Christmas displays in Paris 2019: the Mandarin Oriental.
The hotel’s bar 8 terrace has been transformed into an enchanted forest, sponsored by Glenfiddich.
the best Christmas decorations in Paris 2019
Those are our picks for the best Christmas decorations in Paris this year. Without question, there’s something for everyone. What say you? What’s your favorite of all? Joyeux Noël!
