I think if you don't come expecting the extreme excess of an American Christmas I found Paris to be wonderful during the holidays. Midnight mass at St. Sulpice & St.Germain des Pres were beautiful. No church in the US is as old & the combintion of the beautiful architecture & the music was a beautiful experience.There are concerts (some are free) in many churches.There are special foods to be found in restaurants, epiceries & boulangeries/patisseries. There are theater performances, ballet/dance performances, jazz & movies. There are Christmas decor in some neighborhoods-but again, not the same as the US. One of the most magical displays I have ever seen was in the Rue Madeleine which had hot air style balloons overhead which criss crossed the street going in 2 directions. Paris is a visual feast 365 days/year.
@@shinyshinythings No. Unfortunately that was several years ago & I imagine the decor changes over time.Unless the churches are not doing midnight mass because of COVID that should still be available & Reveillon, the celebrity meal after mass should still be available. although you need to make reservations ahead of time at your favorite restaurant.
We went the week after Thanksgiving and LOVED it! No long lines and loved walking the streets after dark (sunset at 4:59!). Didn’t have to make dinner reservations anywhere and didn’t mind a little rain - it felt romantic! Loved this video! Your humor is on point and now I’m subscribed. Stay well and cheers from San Francisco.
I try to avoid the peak summer travel season when visiting Paris and other parts of Europe. My favorite season to visit is during winter when there are less crowd and gets dark earlier. Plus, the hotel rates and airfares are much cheaper during off peak season.
@@petersmith2040 I couldn’t agree more! My husband and I left on thanksgiving and came back on Christmas. We had no trouble booking any of the main attractions and made no reservations that are usually required during the peak season at the restaurants. I’d take a few rainy days over crowds any day.
We’ve been to Paris twice for Christmas and loved it both times. Of course it wasn’t the only place we went during each trip but I’d do it again. We vlogged a few videos there last year.
I’m a new subscriber… and I just want to say that you’re the best! Your channel makes me feel as close as I probably ever will to local life in Paris. I mean, of course I hope I get to visit some day… but until then, thanks for holding me over and doing it in your friendly and easygoing style :)
The one time I visited Paris was December of 2010, when there was basically a blizzard going on, and yeah, it was just a slushy mess. Especially because the city didn't have the plow infrastructure of a place that regularly gets snow, so the sidewalks were in bad shape. I also remember the cafes all having "outdoor" sections enclosed by plastic sheeting and filled with cigarette smoke, and you had to walk through them to get inside.
Colmar is the place to go, only a few hours by train from Paris. It's super kids friendly, very safe, and everything about this town feels like old-fashioned Christmas.
I remember in ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ where the best friends of the Titular Character tell her to join them in Paris. I knew from that time it’s not the wisest decision. Also, if you want to be inebriated and be “No Thoughts, Only Vibes”, you can do that anywhere, frankly.
I love traveling to Paris in winter and of course it’s going to be cold and rainy at times… it’s winter. I find spending Christmas and New Year in Paris lovely.
I subscribed to your channel in 2018 to prep myself for a trip to Paris for Christmas and New Year... and may I say this video is 4 years late 🤣. Not what I expected but I did had a great time. Your guide for the Lourvre came in really helpful. I thought it would be low season for tourist but everything was packed, still a great time.
We are here visiting from the 30th-9th (with 4 days up in Bruges starting Wednesday), and it’s been great. Lots of places are closed, but the places we’ve gone have been fantastic so far. We didn’t want to go clubbing so we assembled a sort of picnic assortment, got a bottle of champagne we love, and watched the fireworks and million people on the Champs Élysées from our hotel tv so we could start exploring today early. Plus… this weather is so much better than august! 😂
It's definitely a much bigger and more fun Christmas market environment. I'd love to go back and give it another try (on less of a time crunch than last time)!
You may find that strasbourg is expensive. Try looking at Colmar, it's just as pretty, about 30 mins from Strasbourg by train. If you search for another American RU-vid account called Wolters World, he has videos on both cities, what to do, what not to do, and what to eat
When I lived in Paris there were fireworks at the Arc de Triumph every year except one due to the pandemic. I'm not sure if this is a new tradition or not. There we're fireworks this year as well. As for Christmas in Paris. Like any place is up to you to make the most of it.
50F/10C? Perfect! Rainy? Put on your trench coat and go visit Edith Piaf and Jim Morrison. Everything closed on Christmas Day? Visit a cathedral for the pretty music and windows.
Having traveled to France now for 40 years, we'd never come during Xmas however know plenty of people that do visit over the holidays. It is what you make of it. There will always be plenty to see, places to eat/drink, more architecture to drool over. You sadly sound depressed for one who is blessed enough to live where you do. May 2023 bring you emmence joy. HNY.
Actually the small charity Christmas Market of the Apprentice d‘Auteuil (Rue Jean de la Fontaine) - taking place only on some weekends - is quite nice. Huitres, Champagne, fleemarket, concert,…
For a Christmasy trip from Paris I recommend the Christmas illuminations at Chartres - a surprise discovery for me this year and so wonderful! Just an hour away by local train. Wishing you an amazing year to come Jay!
I literally just spent from Dec 12 through Jan 16 in France. The weather is cloudy, rainy and somewhat cold, but not real Christmas weather, if you like snow. The Christmas markets are now very touristy and really expensive. I bought nothing, but did have mulled wine and some hot salty snacks. The lights now are lower than in the past because everyone is trying to be responsible. I went to Strasbourg for XMas weekend, to spend time with my family there and in the countryside. New Year’s Eve was basically a boat ride before midnight and 30 minutes watching the fireworks near the Arc De Triomphe. Did about 6 museums and hit the bakeries every morning.
I agree that the Christmas Markets are underwhelming; Berlin does some fantastic Christmas Markets. We got lucky we were just in Paris, and for the whole two weeks, it was cold below freezing, and we even got some snow. What I found funny was how everyone was dressed in black jackets, skinny jeans, and big round glasses.
Hey Jay, I'd tell people it is worth a 2 day visit to see the main highlights without the crowds. And pair it with the fact that Strasbourg is only a high-speed train ride away and Disney Paris has an excellent commercialized xmas worth seeing to salvage a December trip to Paris. It may not be Germany or Austria for Christmas but day tripping can make it memorable. Lastly, if you are coming from Chicago to Paris for Christmas, please don't leave your kid Home Alone 😀
December long ago became my favorite time to be in Paris. Many restaurants have seasonal foods not offered at other times of the year. The markets echo with unique foods to take to your Airbnb, The shopping is probably the best of the year, and the smaller crowds in the museums are a bonus. Ever think of doing a video on the foods featured during this period?
We went to Paris once to celebrate the New Year just because. It was rainy (as you mentioned) but fun to celebrate there for a change. We got tickets to a Viennese New Year celebration in a gorgeous old theater which was very cool, and we enjoyed seeing the Eiffel Tower all lit up and sparkling at midnight. Shopping the after Christmas sales was nice too. Maybe not a hyped up romanticized holiday experience, but still fun.
We did a family Christmas in Paris a few years ago, coming from Melbourne it was a big trip. I agree with jay that it is a little low key as far a Christmas celebrations go but to be in Paris for Christmas while Australia bakes in the sun was different in itself.
Weather in December and January in Paris does indeed suck based on my own personal experience. The one main advantage of coming to Paris in the winter is to avoid the crowds that plague the city during the other seasons.
I went to Paris for my birthday in December 2022 and I must say it was ridiculously packed and busy. The streets (mainly surrounding La galerie La Fayette and Eiffel Tower) were crowded. Just to get to one end of the street to the other took ages. I thought it wouldn’t have been as busy but it was next level. A lot of tourist attractions were sold out too like the Louvre and that was sold out up until the end of January. Christmas in Paris has become so much busier, if going you now need to plan and book months ahead - before prices increase and things get sold out.
I was there during Christmas and New Year's time and had a good time!! I know it's freezing outside. And the city isn't so beautiful enough, but still it's worth it if you visit Paris during Christmas.
We will be going to Paris this December for our first time. All the things Jay said as a negative, I'm counting on. Less crowded, fewer lines, hopefully easier to get a table for dinner.
I was there for Christmas last yr it wasn't crowded I enjoyed every bit of it. Love looking at your videos and seeing all the places I visited. It's an absolutely beautiful city.
My first trip to Paris was Christmas '87 and I was surprised how sparse the Xmas vibe was. Been to Paris many Christmases since and the thing I love, and associate with Paris @ Xmas, is the smell of chestnuts being roasted atop those metal drums in public areas. Heavenly.
A couple years ago, I spent a week in Paris during the second week of January. The weather was a bit chilly somedays, a drizzle here and there---and I had a very nice time. The parks were still lovely, and the museums were still really interesting, and the cheese was great! I am spending more time in France, and Paris, this coming March, Inshallah.
I see your points. BUT - we've been there a few times in nov-dec, and we love it because it's Paris fer gawd sake - it's GORGEOUS, even though it's a little gray and rainy and low- key on the Christmas scale. So I mostly agree with the 2nd part, less so with the 1st. Great video style and quality, btw - well done.
We did New Year's in Paris in 2018 and went to Jim Haynes NYE party, my second time at his place, and it was the best time we've had anywhere. Sadly he's passed away since.
I was just in Paris earlier this week: We visited family in the east and then a few days in Paris. I think the smaller towns do a better job of decorating for Christmas. Paris was Paris: crowded (I was in the Marais), but beautiful... even in the rain. I once spent a New Year's in Paris. It seemed as if all the tourists had gathered around the Eiffel Tower--waiting for something to happen. Every hour, the light display would go off and we'd ooh and ahh... fully expecting a fabulous display of fireworks or something at midnight. Nope. Just the twinkling lights. No one was positive it was midnight until various parts of the crowd started cheering. And then we all made our way back to our respective hotels in the cold. Like Times Square, I can say I did it and never have to do it again. 😀
Wow!!!! Has Paris changed since I was last there for Xmas & NYE. There were several Xmas markets, the city was light with festivities, Eiffel had an amazing NYE display with fireworks. There were crowds everywhere. I guess a lot can change over 13 years. Thanks for the info, I was literally was booking Xmas and NYE right when this video uploaded. I'll keep to my Walt Disney!!
Nov and Dec are my favorite months to visit Paris, although I've never been there for Christmas. The weather is fine - opportunity to wear my beautiful coat and scarves. The lights are wonderful on the Champs Elysees (but never shop there). Many decorations in the Marais. Few lines, not crowded, yet still many things to see and do. Sitting in a cafe and having a coffee even though outdoor heating is no longer allowed...but very good environmental decision. While Paris is always outstanding, I avoid June, July, and August.
What a Grinch! :) Paris is beautiful during the holidays if you don't have any family to deal with. New Years fireworks are amazing. How can you not see them. Yes, it may be wet or cold but like you said. Fewer people, chill and more romantic.
I've come to Paris a few times over the years at Christmas. The first time was in 2013, I was coming for a concert and it was magical. The Christmas markets were stunning, especially the one at trocadero. The decorations were brilliant. Made it a thing for a few years. I came at the end of November beginning of December this year after a 5 year break and gosh was I disappointed in the change. It was way busier although I suspect the Emily in Paris effect had something to do with that. Barely any markets or decorations. Probably won't do it again although I enjoyed some fabulous food away from the tourist spots so not a total loss
We were there last year between Christmas and NYE and loved it. There wasn’t much going on, but we just thought it was due to Omicron. Nevertheless, the museums weren’t packed and we loved the market at Jardin des Tuileries.
The lack of lights in 'The City of Lights' makes me a little sad, but the weather would not! We got hit with a huge snow storm on the 23rd, and with the wind chill it was down to -35°. So I'll take chilly and rainy over Hoth any day 😂
LOL I had to work in Paris for the month of December. Of course it was the one year it was snowing and beautiful. I think I lucked out and it was beautiful. Of course this was many years ago before pandamemic. Though I do remember NYE was a hot mess with a massive groups of italians in the street yelling and screaming (very drunk)
Your vlog tells it like it is. Sometimes people (north americans) romanticize Paris but you have given a realistic description of this time of yr. Thanks for always being real Jay!
I do fancy Paris in the run up to Christmas one year. Agree about Christmas markets- definitely worth it for the atmosphere but otherwise a total rip off. Manchester’s are the same ! I just watched this years fireworks at Etoile and they were pretty good. Happy New Year Jay!
Duly noted I will take your advice. But I still want to see Paris during the holidays, of course not spend Xmas or NYE there. But just to visit and see the beautiful sights! 😊
@@JaySwanson Jay a walk a nice of cup your favorite java a cup of soup u don't have ask permission for your camera you are coming to have some coffee or soup it would be interesting on your coverage of the nice places/hotels and I am sure your audience would very much enjoy your work in that area. Hey its another year.....God Bless you and may you have a wonderful new year!!!!!!
Yeah I agree. As a Londoner I love Paris, one of my favourite cities in the world, but Christmas away from UK and USA in Europe feels more subdued, or at least than in other European Catholic countries. I've been there a week or so before Christmas and it was cold, wet, still very busy so when you have a hood up, wet shoes, wet cobbles you can easily walk into other people, fall over or slip. The Christmas markets suck, I thought the Trafalgar Square markets were way better and weirdly more continental. The one by the Louvre had that green carpet over the mud and gravel and it was pretty nasty to walk on. I'd recommend Rome or Lisbon if you want a more exciting European Christmas. The weather in Lisbon can be stormy and wet, and the tile floors are more slippery, but at least it's 15 degrees C minimum and laid back enough and less busy. Rome is dryer and just awesome as well. But Paris, go there when it's warmer
I have been to Paris few times, always in summer. Been wanting to see it in Christmas time… I appreciate your video, setting my expectations right and…no, you didn’t ruin it for me 😂
I came for new years 2020 right after Christmas. Luckily I wasn't there for designer brands or shopping, because a LOT of stores and restaurants were closed for the vacation. All the typical tourist sites were open though. Lots of fun, if you're not looking for the shopping. Christmas market was still up by the Louvre. I agree the market wasn't awesome. It was fine. It was more quiet. That was nice.
We went one year over American Thanksgiving and it was great. Enjoyed the cooler weather and a little bit quieter Paris. Saw some Christmas markets and the stores but overall just enjoyed the city. Would recommend!!
I saw pictures of the Champs with over a million people on the road area. Did you go there. How amazing would that have been? In our winter (NZ) many people leave the country and in summer many go to the beach. Paris may have the same situation.
Right up my ally. I'm a widow used to being on my own. I'm still working as a school nurse so the only time I'm off. Gonna be fun dressed in layers no crounds good fun great food. Gonna be great. Staying right by Notre Dam!
They risk to be a bit busy because it's vacation in France as well, but it'll likely be less mobbed than in the summer months! We just recommend to always get your tickets ahead of time and you'll be fine :)
@@JaySwanson Absolutely on the advance tickets! I've been to Paris in September but this is my mom's first trip abroad and she keeps saying that she doesn't want all the crowds. I told her that's basically never except during the pandemic (based on my experience of Lisbon in January).
"The instagramification of Paris"...and everywhere else in the world for that matter, is proving to be detrimental, extractive and kinda tiresome. Also 🧐 2:39
It's very tiresome. Also yeah, that guy was an odd one (ran into me earlier, literally shoulder to shoulder because he wasn't paying attention, and then I guess opted to make a cameo ha)
I'm in NYC and this Christmas was dead and too cold to even go out like -11. I think Christmas here is romanticized as well. You have to pay to do a lot of the stuff.
Hi Jay :). I spied your dad in your video, always nice to see him. I do hope your Xmas and New Years were nice. I am waiting to hear when you will get to be a citizen of France! Your pup looks adorable, healthy and happy, always a good thing. You can't possibly miss the US with all the crap that goes on here, oh well, I'm getting used to the background noise. So good to see your coffee wanderings, lovely...
