Paris is already known as the City of Lights, but come Christmas, it truly lives up to the name—especially around the Eiffel Tower.
If you're in Paris during the holidays, the Eiffel Tower is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s part of the season’s magic. Between the lights, the festive air, and the feeling of being in a literal snow globe of holiday cheer, it’s a Christmas memory in the making.
Whether you’re chasing fairy lights, hot chocolate, or that perfect holiday photo, spending Christmas at the Eiffel Tower is an experience that blends festive charm with iconic Parisian flair. Here’s everything you need to know if you're dreaming of a sparkling Christmas with the Iron Lady.
Spending Christmas at the Eiffel Tower
Let’s be honest—Paris knows how to do holidays right. And the Eiffel Tower? It doesn’t just join the celebration, it becomes the centerpiece.
Festive Decorations & Lights:
The tower itself isn’t always decked out like a Christmas tree, but the surrounding area definitely is. Think twinkling lights, street lamps wrapped in garlands, and the Seine glowing under festive reflections.
Seasonal Events & Christmas Markets:
Around the base and nearby areas like Champ de Mars and Trocadéro, you’ll often find seasonal pop-ups—mini Christmas markets, food stalls, and even ice rinks. Perfect for grabbing some vin chaud (hot wine) or sweet crepes before your Eiffel Tower visit.
Photo Ops for Days:
Snow-dusted trees, cozy scarves, and Paris in the background? Your Instagram feed will thank you.
Recommended tickets to Eiffel Tower
What to Expect During Christmas at the Eiffel Tower
1 Illuminations That Dazzle
While the Eiffel Tower sparkles year-round every evening, it feels extra magical during the festive season. The 20,000 lights that twinkle for five minutes every hour after sunset have a whole different vibe when it’s December.
2 Christmas Shopping Nearby
Looking to pick up some unique gifts? The Christmas Village at Champs de Mars (subject to the year) is a solid place to browse artisanal goods, handmade ornaments, and seasonal bites without straying too far from the tower.
3 Ice Skating with a View
Depending on the year, there may be an ice rink installed at the first level of the Eiffel Tower. Yes, you could literally be skating inside the Eiffel Tower, overlooking Paris. Sounds unreal? It’s real, and it’s one of the most unforgettable winter experiences you can have in the city.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
- Book Tickets in Advance: Christmas time = long lines. If you want to go up the Eiffel Tower (especially to the summit), it’s wise to book online through platforms like Headout to skip the queues.
- Visit Around Sunset: Catch the last golden glow over Paris, then stay for the twinkling lights. It’s da double win.
- Layer Up & Stay Cozy: Paris can be quite cold in December. Bring warm clothes, and don’t forget gloves if you plan to hang around outside. Bonus points if you bring a warm pastry from a nearby boulangerie.
- Head to Trocadéro for the Best View: For full Eiffel-in-holiday-mode photos, walk to the Trocadéro Gardens. It’s the spot where the Eiffel Tower looks the most iconic—especially when it's glowing.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: What’s Open?
Surprisingly, the Eiffel Tower is open every day of the year, including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. That said, do check for any revised timings or crowd alerts if you’re visiting on December 24th or 25th.
Nearby restaurants, shops, and markets might close early or take a break on the 25th, so plan ahead if you’re looking to dine with a view of the tower.
Frequently asked questions
Yes! The Eiffel Tower is open 365 days a year, including December 25th.
Yes, depending on the year, there are festive markets and food stalls near Champ de Mars and Trocadéro. Keep an eye out for updated listings closer to your visit.
In some years, a skating rink is set up on the first floor. Check Headout or official announcements for this year's details.
Go around late afternoon to catch the sunset, then stay for the evening sparkle.
