Christmas market, Paris, France by Evan Bench

Once you’ve arrived in Paris, there are many markets to explore, and during the holiday season you’ll find that stalls pop up throughout the city. Little groups of wooden chalets offer a wide variety of delicacies and gifts from all over France, and they have become a traditional part of the Parisian Christmas season. Whether you’re on a family outing or are indulging in a wintery romantic break, the markets are an ideal place to find a few Christmas gifts and keepsakes. From homemade treats, including sausages, gingerbread and mulled wine, to handcrafted toys and gift ideas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Christmas markets of Paris are found scattered throughout the city, and one of the largest takes place on the Avenue des Champs- Elysées. In 2012, it opens on November 19th and stretches between the Place de la Concorde and the famed Champs- Elysées roundabout. Elsewhere, if you’re looking for a festive market ensconced in modern architecture, visiting La Défense is ideal. Here, you’ll find 350 stands in a vibrant and Christmassy atmosphere, all offering mouth watering foods and gifts to tempt you.

If you’re travelling with children, then Paris offers some ideal festive markets that are aimed towards keeping youngsters amused too. The Trocadero’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink has over 120 stands, but also offers snow villages and an ice-skating rink to enjoy. Meanwhile, Santa’s Village at Saint-Germain-des- Prés won’t fail to keep the family entertained.

Christmas Market on the Champs, Paris, France by Evan Bench

With Paris being so simple to get too, it’s easy to make a day trip to the French capital. A channel crossing is ideal if you want to really feel like you’re going abroad, allowing the British coastline to fade away, and the thrill of nearing a new nation to cause excitement. For families, such a route is ideal, allowing children to have space to stretch their legs and indulge in the adventure. Meanwhile, sailing across beautiful seas with the spray below and blue skies above will truly get any romantic trip well underway.

Christmas is a great time of year to take a holiday, and though most people try to spend December 25th with close family and friends, enjoying a few days off earlier in the month is a great way to get into the festive spirit. The Parisian markets are a wonderful place to browse and shop whilst letting the Christmassy ambiance thrill you. And, if you’re looking for the perfect wintery day trip this year, heading to see the Paris markets will give you an entirely new take on this beautiful European city.

A-087262, a freelance writer, provided this article for P&O Ferries. The opinions expressed are those of the author and any data provided does not originate from P&O Ferries. The following is a link to the P&O homepage - https://www.poferries.com/

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Old Town Square, Praha / Photo by admin

1 – The Alchymist Grand Hotel
Part of a row of Baroque houses, the state of the art Alchymist hotel is decorated in a neo Baroque style. Its suites are also enhanced by spas and restaurant options. Located in the centre of the city, the Alchymist is also an ideal starting point for exploring Prague.

2 – Romantic Hotel U Raka
Sampling the best of medieval and Gothic Prague, the 18th century Romantik Hotel Uk Raka features a winter garden and a courtyard. Located in one of the quieter areas of the central city, the Romantik Hotel Uk Raka is particularly ideal for honeymoon stays.

3 – The Golden Well Hotel
Influenced by Renaissance styles, the Golden Well Hotel has 19 suites, and is located within a short walk of the Old Town Square. The Golden Well Hotel is also distinguished by its restaurant selection.

4 – Old Town Square Hotel
Perhaps the best choice for those wanting to stay in Prague’s historic Old Town Square, this hotel has been recognised as a world heritage site. As well as its luxury suites, the Old Town Square Hotel also includes lounges, cafes, and an international range of wines.

5 – Hotel Yasmin
Distinguished by its bold graphic design, and located at Wenceslas Square, the Hotel Yasmin includes a world class restaurant, as well as the Yasmin garden, which is open from March to October every year. The hotel also includes free WiFi for guests, as well as a health club.

6 – Design Hotel Sax
A retro hotel located near to the Charles Bridges, the Design Hotel Sax is within easy reach of Prague’s leading attractions. The hotel’s 14th century roots are offset by high quality modern facilities.

7 – Savic Hotel
Recently renovated, the Savic Hotel has its own internal courtyard, and an al fresco terrace for outdoor dining.

8 – Ventana Hotel
A converted townhouse in the centre of Prague, the Ventana Hotel’s marble decoration and stone staircases are complemented by richly appointed rooms with built in wardrobes, and by skyloft views over the city.

9 – Hotel Neruda
Found near to Prague castle, the four star Hotel Neruda features high quality room decoration by Borek Sipek. Notable features include large rooms in wood and glass, as well as quotes from the hotel’s namesake Jan Neruda.

10 – Grand Hotel Bohemia
A key feature of Prague’s Old Town, the Grand Hotel Bohemia is ideally placed for exploring the city. The luxury hotel also includes ballroom events. The hotel is also distinguished by its Franz Josef restaurant, which features world class dining from chef Michal Chermak, and an adjoining Bohemia lounge.

Travelling from country to country and visiting Prague, Matt Mynors is a travel enthusiast and freelance copywriter currently writing for UK based company Room For Romance.

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