Paris: 5 things to do for Christmas 2013

What city could be more beautiful at Christmas time than Paris, with the crisp wintry air, long boulevards lit by fairy lights and a sparkling Eiffel Tower? So if you’re heading to the City of Love this Christmas time, here are some tips for what to do during your stay.

Brassaï exhibition at Hotel de Ville

Paris’ city hall has an ongoing programme of free exhibitions, and have aptly chosen the photographer Brassaï for the festive period. Brassaï was famous for his dreamy black-and-white photographs of Paris in the 30s, so look no further if you want to spend a romantic afternoon seeing Paris through his lens.

Brassaï, Pour l’Amour de Paris is on until March 2014, for further information visit here.

Take a stroll in the Tuileries

Start at the Louvre pyramid, at the end of the afternoon when the light is failing. Buy a hot gaufre (waffle) from one of the stands to keep you going as you head towards Concorde, where you’ll be met by a huge, glittering Christmas wheel with the Christmas markets beyond.

For further information about Christmas markets in Paris visit here.

Go shopping in the Marais

Looking for the perfect Christmas presents? Stay away from the pricey Champs-Elysées and the shopping centres at La Défense and Les Halles. Instead, dive into the Marais (the 3^rd and 4^th arrondissements) for original design boutiques and that can’t-get-it-anywhere-else gift. Here’s a tip: start with the Rue de Poitou.

For further ideas on where to shop in the Marais visit here.

How to Become a Parisian in One Hour

While gallivanting around the Marais, maybe you noticed a serious lack of customer service? It’s not you; it’s the Parisians. Comedian Olivier Giraud will clear all of these stereotypes (and truths) up for you in his one-hour, one-man show at the Theatre des Nouveautés. Now you need never look like a tourist again.

For further information and to book visit here.

Batofar Club

As beautiful as Paris is in the daytime, at night it comes alive. For a magical night out on the Seine, head to the Batofar Club for live music events and club nights.

For further information and to book tickets visit here (in French).

Catherine Bennett