Paris at Christmas: Simply Enchanting

Paris is a wonderful place to visit at Christmas. Known as the City of Light, the French capital takes on an extra-special atmosphere during the festive season, with illuminated avenues, Christmas markets, beautifully decorated shop windows and plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy.

If you are planning a Christmas trip to Paris, here are 25 things to add to your itinerary.

1. See Paris’ Christmas Lights

Seeing Paris’ Christmas lights is one of the best ways to experience the city during the festive season.

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous places to see the illuminations, with trees lining the avenue covered in festive lights. Avenue Montaigne, Place Vendôme and the surrounding streets are also worth exploring for their seasonal displays.

Paris Christmas Lights Tours offer a convenient way to discover many of the city’s main Christmas lights and decorations in one evening.

A festive Christmas market in Paris with seasonal stalls and decorations.

2. Explore Paris’ Christmas Markets

Paris’ Christmas markets bring a festive atmosphere to squares and streets across the city. Browse wooden chalets selling handmade gifts, decorations, regional specialities and seasonal treats.

Popular locations include the market near Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Christmas markets around La Défense. Depending on the year, other markets may also open across the capital.

Allow time to browse the stalls, try something warm to eat and enjoy the seasonal decorations.

3. Visit the Tuileries Christmas Market

The Christmas market in the Jardin des Tuileries is a popular seasonal attraction, combining festive stalls with food, rides and winter entertainment.

It is a good place to browse gifts, sample French specialities and enjoy a lively Christmas atmosphere in the heart of Paris. Check the current season’s programme before visiting, as dates and activities can vary.

4. Visit the Notre-Dame Christmas Market

The Notre-Dame Christmas market is a lovely place to experience the festive season in historic Paris.

Located near the cathedral, the market features French crafts, handmade gifts and regional food products. Its setting also makes it easy to combine a visit with a walk along the Seine or a stop at the nearby Île de la Cité.

It is an especially appealing choice if you want to enjoy Christmas traditions while exploring one of Paris’ most historic areas.

The spectacular Christmas tree beneath the glass dome at Galeries Lafayette in Paris.

5. See the Christmas Decorations at Galeries Lafayette

Paris’ department stores are known for their elaborate Christmas decorations and Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is one of the highlights.

Each year, the store features a spectacular Christmas tree beneath its famous glass dome, alongside seasonal decorations and festive window displays. The displays are particularly popular with families and visitors looking for a memorable Christmas photo.

For more details on Galeries Lafayette, check out this guide to Paris at Christmas time, sharing more ways to experience the city’s holiday magic.

While you are there, explore the surrounding Boulevard Haussmann shopping district and its other decorated department stores.

6. Admire Paris’ Christmas Shop Windows

Christmas window displays are a seasonal tradition in Paris, with department stores transforming their façades and windows into elaborate festive scenes.

Galeries Lafayette, Printemps Haussmann, Le Bon Marché and La Samaritaine are all worth visiting for their decorations. The displays often feature imaginative designs, colourful characters and detailed festive scenes.

You do not need to be shopping to enjoy them. A walk past several department stores can easily become part of an afternoon exploring Paris.

7. Go Ice Skating in Paris

Ice skating is a fun way to enjoy Paris during winter. Seasonal rinks sometimes open at spectacular locations around the city, including the Grand Palais, depending on the year’s programme.

Skating offers a different perspective on Paris’ historic architecture and makes a good activity for families, couples and groups.

Check the location, opening dates and booking requirements before planning your visit, as seasonal rinks can change from one Christmas period to another.

The Eiffel Tower illuminated against the evening sky in Paris.

8. See the Eiffel Tower at Christmas

No visit to Paris would be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower, and the festive season offers a particularly beautiful backdrop for this iconic landmark.

Visit during the day to admire the tower and surrounding Champ de Mars, or return in the evening to see it illuminated against the winter sky. The tower’s sparkling light display after dark is a highlight for many visitors.

You can also combine your visit with nearby Trocadéro for another memorable viewpoint.

9. Enjoy French Pastries and Hot Chocolate

Christmas is an excellent time to discover Paris’ cafés, bakeries and pâtisseries.

Stop for a rich hot chocolate, sample freshly baked croissants or try seasonal pastries and festive desserts. Many pâtisseries also create special Christmas cakes and elaborate chocolate displays during the holiday season, including the traditional bûche de Noël.

Taking a break at a traditional Parisian café is a simple way to enjoy the city at a slower pace between sightseeing stops.

A traditional French dessert served during the Christmas season.

10. Try Traditional French Christmas Food

French Christmas celebrations often centre on le réveillon de Noël, a festive Christmas Eve meal shared with family and friends. Traditional dishes vary by region, with seafood, foie gras and roast dishes featuring in many holiday meals.

For a memorable meal, consider booking a restaurant serving a special Christmas menu in advance.

In Provence, the celebrations may also include the tradition of serving thirteen desserts after the Christmas meal. For a closer look at these customs and the foods associated with the season, explore this guide to French Christmas traditions.

11. Watch a Christmas Concert or Ballet

Paris has a rich performing arts scene, and December is a lovely time to enjoy a concert, ballet or theatrical performance.

The city’s concert halls and historic churches host musical performances throughout the year, while venues such as the Opéra Garnier offer an opportunity to experience Parisian culture in a remarkable setting.

Check the seasonal programme before your visit and book ahead for popular performances, particularly if you have a specific show in mind.

12. Explore the Louvre Museum

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums and a great choice for a winter day in Paris.

Explore its extensive collections, including the Mona Lisa, ancient sculptures and masterpieces from across Europe. The museum also offers a chance to escape the cold while discovering centuries of art and history.

13. Discover Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’ most recognisable landmarks and an important part of the city’s history.

Admire its Gothic architecture, sculpted details and famous towers, then explore the surrounding Île de la Cité. The nearby riverbanks and historic streets offer plenty of opportunities to discover another side of Paris.

If you plan to enter the cathedral, check the official visitor information and any reservation requirements before your visit.

14. Visit Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is one of Paris’ most impressive historic buildings, best known for its magnificent stained-glass windows.

Located on the Île de la Cité, the chapel offers a quieter cultural stop to combine with Notre-Dame and other nearby landmarks. On a winter day, its colourful glass panels provide a striking contrast to the grey skies outside.

It is worth checking opening hours and booking tickets ahead, especially during busy holiday periods.

15. See Paris from the River Seine

A cruise along the River Seine offers a different view of Paris’ most famous landmarks.

Depending on the route, you may see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame and several of the city’s historic bridges from the water. An evening cruise can be particularly appealing during December, when the city’s buildings and monuments are illuminated.

Some cruises also offer dinner or festive dining options, making them a possible choice for a special evening out.

16. Explore Montmartre at Christmas

Montmartre is one of Paris’ most charming neighbourhoods, known for its cobbled streets, artists’ studios and village-like atmosphere.

Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, explore the streets around Place du Tertre and browse the independent shops and cafés. During the festive season, the neighbourhood can be especially inviting, with seasonal decorations adding to its character.

Wear comfortable shoes, as Montmartre has steep streets and plenty of steps and allow time to explore beyond the main tourist spots.

The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the end of the Champs-Élysées, illuminated by festive Christmas lights.

17. Visit the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is another essential stop on a Paris Christmas itinerary.

Standing at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the monument offers views across the avenues radiating from Place Charles de Gaulle. It is particularly well placed for seeing the Christmas illuminations along the Champs-Élysées.

You can admire the monument from street level or visit the rooftop for panoramic views of Paris, subject to opening hours and ticket availability.

18. Explore Paris’ Royal and Historic Squares

Paris has several elegant squares that are especially beautiful to explore during the Christmas season.

Place Vendôme is known for its grand architecture and luxury boutiques, while Place de la Concorde offers sweeping views towards the Champs-Élysées and the Tuileries Garden. Place des Vosges, in the Marais district, is another historic square worth visiting for its distinctive architecture and surrounding streets.

These locations can be combined with nearby shopping areas, cafés and Christmas displays as part of a relaxed sightseeing route.

Disneyland Paris sparkles with festive Christmas lights, enchanting decorations and seasonal magic for the whole family.

19. Spend a Day at Disneyland Paris

For families and Disney fans, Disneyland Paris is a popular addition to a Christmas itinerary.

The resort typically celebrates the season with festive decorations, themed entertainment and seasonal experiences across the parks. Visitors can meet characters, enjoy attractions and explore the decorated resort, making it a full-day outing outside central Paris.

Christmas programming and opening dates vary each year, so check the official Disneyland Paris calendar before booking your visit.

20. Experience Christmas at the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles makes a memorable day trip from Paris for visitors interested in French royal history.

Explore the palace’s grand rooms, the Hall of Mirrors and the surrounding estate, then check the seasonal programme for special Christmas events and family activities. Versailles has a fascinating connection to the reign of Louis XIV and the French monarchy.

Allow enough time for travel and sightseeing, as the palace and grounds are extensive. Advance booking is recommended for popular dates and special events.

21. Take a Festive Trip to the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

For a different royal-style excursion, consider visiting the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a magnificent seventeenth-century château outside Paris.

The estate is known for its formal gardens, grand interiors and architectural history. Depending on the season’s programme, it also hosts special Christmas decorations and festive events.

Because it is outside the city, plan transport and check the château’s official calendar before adding it to your itinerary.

22. Explore Le Marais at Christmas

Le Marais is a wonderful Paris neighbourhood to explore if you want to combine sightseeing, shopping and food.

Its historic streets are home to independent boutiques, galleries, cafés and restaurants, with plenty to discover away from the main tourist routes. During the festive season, shop windows and street decorations add to the atmosphere.

Take your time wandering through the area, and consider stopping for a pastry or a meal at one of its many cafés and restaurants.

23. Discover Avenue Montaigne and Paris’ Luxury Shopping Streets

Paris and fashion go hand in hand and the Christmas season is an ideal time to explore its elegant shopping districts.

Avenue Montaigne is known for its luxury fashion houses and beautifully presented boutiques. Nearby, the Champs-Élysées combines major shops with one of the city’s most famous Christmas light displays.

For a different shopping experience, discover the covered passages of Paris, charming 19th-century shopping arcades tucked away behind discreet entrances on the Right Bank. Passages such as Passage des Panoramas and Passage Jouffroy feature historic architecture, glass roofs, vintage shopfronts and independent boutiques. During winter, they offer a sheltered place to browse for unusual gifts, stop for a hot chocolate and enjoy a quieter side of Paris. Discover more about these historic arcades in this guide to the covered passages of Paris.

24. See Paris’ Christmas Lights After Dark

Paris takes on a different atmosphere after sunset during the festive season. Illuminated avenues, decorated shopfronts and historic monuments make an evening outing one of the highlights of a Christmas visit.

The Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne, Place Vendôme and the Boulevard Haussmann shopping district are among the places worth including in your route.

A Paris Holiday Lights Tour is a convenient way to see several of the city’s Christmas displays in one evening without having to plan every stop yourself. With a professional guide sharing the stories and traditions behind Paris at Christmas, as well as festive music playing during your journey, the experience can be much more than simply seeing the lights.

The Grande Roue de Paris lights up the festive season, offering enchanting views over the Champs-Élysées and the sparkling Christmas lights of Paris.

25. Experience Paris’ Christmas Highlights with a Private Tour

With Christmas lights, markets, historic landmarks and seasonal attractions spread across Paris, seeing everything can take some planning.

A private tour gives you the flexibility to build your sightseeing around the places you are most interested in. Rather than working out every transport connection yourself, you can explore with a professional guide and chauffeur, depending on the tour option you choose.

At Paris Magical Tours, the Paris Christmas Lights Tour is designed for visitors who want to discover the city’s festive highlights in a private setting. The experience focuses on Christmas lights, decorations and the stories behind Parisian holiday traditions, with stops to explore selected sights along the way.

It is a lovely option for families, couples and visitors who want to experience Paris at Christmas with a more personal approach.

Planning Your Christmas Trip to Paris

Paris can be busy during December, particularly around the main shopping streets, department stores, Christmas markets and popular attractions.

It is worth booking museums, restaurants, performances and special seasonal experiences in advance. Check opening hours and event dates before travelling, as Christmas attractions and markets do not all operate on the same schedule.

Planning your sightseeing by neighbourhood can also save time. You could explore the Louvre and Tuileries during the day, for example, before heading towards the Champs-Élysées to see the illuminations after dark.

If you are visiting Paris for only a few days, consider combining the main landmarks with a Christmas market, a seasonal meal and an evening dedicated to the city’s festive lights.

More Inspiration for Your Paris Christmas Trip

Looking for more ideas to help plan your visit? These additional guides offer inspiration for discovering Paris and experiencing the festive season, from local traditions and seasonal activities to hidden gems and practical travel tips.

• Discover Paris in Winter: For more ideas and practical advice on enjoying the city during the colder months, read this guide to visiting Paris in winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in Paris at Christmas?

Some popular activities include seeing the Christmas lights along the Champs-Élysées, visiting Christmas markets, exploring Galeries Lafayette’s decorations, enjoying French festive food and taking an evening cruise on the Seine.

Where can I see Christmas lights in Paris?

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous places to see Christmas lights. Avenue Montaigne, Place Vendôme and the Boulevard Haussmann shopping district are also worth exploring for seasonal illuminations and decorations.

Are Paris Christmas markets worth visiting?

Yes. Paris’ Christmas markets offer an opportunity to browse handmade gifts, discover French crafts and sample seasonal food. The Notre-Dame market and other markets around the city are worth checking during your visit, although opening dates vary.

How many days do you need in Paris at Christmas?

Three to five days is a useful starting point for exploring many of Paris’ main landmarks, Christmas markets and seasonal displays. You may want additional time if you plan to visit Disneyland Paris or take day trips to Versailles and other nearby destinations.

Is Paris busy at Christmas?

Yes. December can be a busy time in Paris, particularly around department stores, major shopping avenues and popular attractions. Booking ahead and planning your route by area can help you make the most of your visit.

Is a private tour worth it in Paris at Christmas?

A private tour is the most convenient way to see several parts of Paris in a limited amount of time. A professional guide shares the history and traditions behind the city’s Christmas displays, while a private vehicle and chauffeur makes travelling between the sights much easier. It’s a very special way to discover Paris during the most wonderful time of the year.

Ready to experience London at Christmas? Contact our team to start planning your private tour. For more information about our experiences and services, visit our FAQ page.

A family of skeletons decorating London’s famous Covent Garden

Visiting London this Halloween?

From historic landmarks and spooky attractions to magical trails, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season.

Whether you’re exploring independently or booking London Private Tours with a professional guide and chauffeur, here are five things to add to your London itinerary.

Explore the Tower of London’s history and mysterious past this Halloween.

1. Visit the Tower of London

The Tower of London has a long history of royal intrigue, imprisonment and mysterious stories. Explore its historic grounds and learn about the people and events that shaped its past.

During the Halloween season, look out for special activities and themed experiences, helping discover some of London’s best ghost stories.

2. Explore Halloween at Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens offers a different experience after dark, with seasonal illuminated trails, themed installations and Halloween surprises.

It’s a good option for families and anyone looking for an evening activity during their London visit.

See the darker side of the wizarding world at the Harry Potter Studio Tour.

3. Discover the Dark Arts at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London

Harry Potter fans can explore the darker side of the wizarding world at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. The seasonal Dark Arts experience features Halloween details across the original film sets, including floating pumpkins and familiar scenes from the films.

It’s a chance to see the sets, props and costumes up close while enjoying a Halloween-themed visit.

4. Get Spooked at The London Dungeon

For a more intense Halloween experience, visit The London Dungeon. Live actors, special effects and dramatic storytelling bring some of London’s darkest historical tales to life.

With a mix of history and horror, it’s a good choice for adults and older children to enjoy some jump-out-of-your-seat scares.

Discover London during the spookiest part of the year

5. Discover London’s Haunted History

London’s historic streets and old alleyways are full of stories about ghosts, unexplained events and mysterious characters. Exploring these areas is a great way to see another side of the city.

Join a private tour to learn more about London’s darker history and discover stories you might otherwise miss.

With so many attractions to choose from, it’s worth planning your route before you go. London VIP Tours offer a more personal way to explore the city with your own professional guide and chauffeur.

Ready to plan your visit? Contact our team to discuss your private tour. You can also visit our FAQ page for more information about our services.

Share your Halloween adventures with us on social media. Tag @londonmagicaltours and use #londonmagicaltours.

With the announcement of the dates for this year’s London Holiday Lights Tour, join us on a special behind the scenes look, as we follow a family on our annual special, the Private Magical Christmas London Tour (3 hours).

After being picked up from their Central London accommodation, the family went on a magical journey of Christmas through the ages, led by their own team: a professional tour guide, plus their own chauffeur.

The addition of a chauffeur is a London Magical Tours exclusivity – and as our returning guests always comment – it makes a huge difference to the experience, especially at such a busy time of year. First in line, every time, with no parking worries. Plus our chauffeurs know all the best Christmas music to create the festive spirit, as you move between the best of the London Christmas locations.

Sleigh Ride – The family taking in London’s beautiful Christmas displays during their private tour of the London holiday Lights

Christmas Lights and Decorations

One of the highlights of the Private Magical Christmas London Tour is being able to go in search of some of London’s best Christmas lights and decorations – much more than just the lights. London is unique in that each neighbourhood has its own set of holiday lights and decorations – making Christmas time the best part of the year to discover the capital.

Our guests took their time exploring, stopping for photos and loved learning about each festive neighbourhood at their own pace. Just look at these oversized Christmas baubles!

Christmas time in London is so much more than the lights – just look at those festive baubles!

The Magic of Christmas in London

The tour continued with the family joining their professional guide on guided walks to help bringing the London Christmas story to life. There was plenty of time to stop for photos, enjoy the sights and make the most of their evening without being tied to a large group. Our London Christmas lights tours are designed for that – to make exploring London comfortable, personal and memorable.

Christmas Trees big and small – you’ll discover the very best on the Private Magical Christmas London Tour

Want to learn more? Click on the video at the top of this post for a glimpse of our lovely guests on their tour to see what made their Christmas visit so special. If you’re planning your own festive adventure, a tour London Christmas lights is a wonderful way to experience the city together.

Visiting London this Christmas? Share your favourite moments with us by tagging @londonmagicaltours and using #londonmagicaltours. We’d love to see the festive sights you discover during your visit.

Ready to plan your Private Christmas Tour? Contact our team to start planning your experience. For more information before booking, visit our FAQ page.

Children proudly show their entries for this year’s Create Your Own Royal Flag competition.

As the experts in providing tours to London for families and children, London Magical Tours knows how sightseeing can be more even fun when the kids have something interactive to take part in.

This year, young guests at London Magical Tours have been getting creative and taking part in our annual children’s art competition. Among these is the Create Your Own Royal Flag competition, where children are asked to design their own royal flag – the more individual and unique the better!

We’re loving Princess Edele’s pink flag, dedicated to her kingdom of Heartston

Getting Creative with Royal Flags

Children taking part on our VIP tour programmes receive activity sheets, colouring pages, pencils and interactive challenges throughout their private tour. With support from a specialist children’s guide, they can learn about London while staying involved along the way.

For this year’s competition, children were invited to design their own royal flag. We’ve enjoyed seeing the different ideas and designs they have created, with every entry bringing something different to the competition.

The Children’s Programme is available for children aged 10 years and under.

Another creative royal flag designed by 5 year old Chauncey, featuring Stars and Stripes

More for Children to Enjoy

The royal flag competition is one of the activities available through our family friendly London tours. Children can also take part in our annual code-cracking competition, giving them another challenge to look forward to during their visit.

For families planning London tours for children, these activities offer a fun way to make sightseeing more interactive, while parents enjoy exploring London too.

Winners of both competitions will be announced at the end of the year, with prizes awarded for the most creative artwork and the fastest code cracker.

A big thank you to all the children who have taken part so far. We can’t wait to see more of your designs!

Ready to plan a London adventure for the whole family? Contact our team to learn more about our Children’s Programme and private family tours. For answers to common questions about our tours and services, visit our FAQ page.

Did your child get creative in London? Share their artwork or favourite moments with us. Tag @londonmagicaltours and use #londonmagicaltours to show us how your family experienced London together.

London at Christmas: Just Magical

London is an unparalleled place to visit at Christmas. The city comes to life like no other during the holiday season, with Christmas lights, markets and a vast range of seasonal activities to enjoy.

If you are planning a Christmas trip to London, here are 25 things to add to your itinerary.

1. See London’s Christmas Lights

Seeing London’s Christmas lights is one of the best ways to discover the capital during the festive season.

Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, Carnaby and Mayfair are just some of the most popular areas for Christmas displays.

London Christmas Lights Tours are also a fun and convenient way to see so many of the main displays and decorations all in one evening.

London becomes filled with Christmas markets, stalls and decorations.

2. Explore London’s Christmas Markets

London has Christmas markets across the city, offering gifts, decorations, food and seasonal drinks.

Southbank Winter Market, Leicester Square and Covent Garden are amongst the popular choices. Borough Market is another good stop if you are interested in seasonal food and local products.

If you want to visit several markets, consider planning them alongside other nearby attractions rather than trying to cross the city between each one.

3. Visit Winter Wonderland

Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is one of London’s biggest Christmas events. There are rides, food stalls, Christmas markets, ice skating and entertainment.

It is particularly popular with families and groups, so it can get busy during the festive season. Allow plenty of time if you plan to explore the different areas.

The illuminated Christmas light trail at Kew Gardens.

4. Experience Christmas at Kew

Kew Gardens is transformed during the festive season with a Christmas light trail through the gardens.

Visitors can follow the illuminated route while enjoying seasonal food and drinks along the way. It is a good option if you want to see a Christmas attraction outside the more central London area.

5. See the Christmas Tree in Trafalgar Square

Trafalgar Square is home to one of London’s best-known Christmas traditions. Every year, a large Christmas tree is displayed in the square.

The tree is traditionally given to London by Norway, a gift of gratitude for the help the UK offered to Norway during the Second World War. It is a beloved part of London ‘s Christmas celebrations for decades.

Trafalgar Square is also close to Leicester Square and the West End, making it easy to include with other Christmas activities.

The West End and Covent Garden at Christmas Time

6. Explore the West End at Christmas

London’s West End is one of the most festive areas of London during December.

The market areas and surrounding streets are decorated with Christmas trees, lights and seasonal displays. You can also combine your visit with shopping, restaurants and nearby West End theatres.

7. Go Ice Skating at Somerset House

Ice skating is a popular winter activity in London and makes a fun addition to a Christmas itinerary. Somerset House hosts a seasonal ice rink in its historic courtyard, surrounded by festive decorations and Christmas lights.

It is a good option for families, couples and groups looking for something active to do between sightseeing and other Christmas activities.

Harrods beautifully decorated with festive Christmas window displays in London.

8. See London’s Christmas Shop Windows

London’s department stores offer some spectacular Christmas window displays throughout November and December.

Harrods, Selfridges and Liberty are all worth visiting even if you are not planning to shop. You can also combine the displays with a walk through some of London’s main Christmas light installations.

9. Enjoy a Christmas Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is a classic London experience and many hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas menus during the festive season.

Expect sandwiches, cakes, scones and seasonal treats served with tea. Some venues also add Christmas decorations and festive desserts.

This can be a good way to take a break from sightseeing while still enjoying something distinctly British.

A festive London show- Christmas is undoubtedly one of the best times of the year to capture the magic of the city.

10. Watch a Christmas Show or Pantomime

London’s West End has plenty of shows throughout the Christmas season. You can also find traditional pantomimes, family productions and seasonal concerts at theatres across the city.

If there is a particular show you want to see, booking ahead is recommended as popular performances often sell out far in advance.

11. Visit Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is one of London’s most important historic landmarks and a natural addition to a Christmas sightseeing itinerary.

The Abbey has been closely connected with British royal history for centuries. From here, you can also explore nearby Westminster landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben and St James’s Park.

12. Explore the Tower of London

The Tower of London offers a different side of London’s history. Explore the medieval fortress, learn about its royal past and see the Crown Jewels.

It is close to Tower Bridge and the City of London, so you can visit several major landmarks in the same area.

13. Visit London’s Royal Landmarks

Christmas is a good time to explore London’s royal landmarks. Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace, Kensington Palace and the surrounding royal parks all offer something different.

A private sightseeing itinerary can combine several of these landmarks with Westminster and London’s Christmas lights, making it easier to see more without spending the day planning transport between each stop.

Hampton Court Palace decorated for the festive season.

14. Experience Christmas at Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace offers a chance to explore one of England’s best-known royal residences outside central London.

During the festive season, the former residence of King Henry VIII hosts Christmas events including the Winter Palace experience, the Festive Fayre and its outdoor ice rink. It is a good option if you want to combine British royal history with a seasonal day out.

15. See London from the River Thames

The River Thames offers a different view of many of London’s most famous landmarks at Christmas time.

Depending on the experience you choose, you can see Tower Bridge, the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Houses of Parliament from the water.

An evening Thames experience can be particularly appealing during December when the city is lit up for the holidays.

The London Eye surrounded by festive lights.

16. Walk Along the South Bank

The South Bank is another popular place to visit during the festive season.

Walk along the Thames, browse the Christmas stalls and stop at one of the area’s restaurants or cafés. You can also see the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe and other landmarks along the route.

17. Visit a Traditional London Pub

Cold winter days are a good excuse to stop at one of London’s historic pubs.

Many pubs decorate their interiors for Christmas and offer seasonal food and drinks. Areas such as Westminster, Soho and the City of London have plenty of historic options to explore.

18. Attend a Christmas Carol Service

For a more traditional Christmas experience, consider attending a carol service.

Churches across London hold services throughout December, from large historic venues to smaller local churches. Some of the most popular services require advance planning, so check arrangements before visiting.

The Great Hall decorated for Christmas at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

19. Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Harry Potter fans can visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to see the sets, props and costumes from the films.

During the festive season, Hogwarts in the Snow transforms the Studio Tour with Christmas decorations, snowy sets and festive details from the Harry Potter films. It is a popular choice for families and Harry Potter fans.

20. Take a Festive Day Trip to Windsor

Windsor is a great day trip from London and home to Windsor Castle, one of Britain’s most famous royal residences. With its strong links to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Windsor is decorated extra beautifully during the Christmas season – look out for the spectacular Christmas tree in St George’s Hall.

Spend the day exploring the castle and historic town before returning to London. A private tour can also make the trip easier for visitors who prefer to travel with a dedicated guide and chauffeur rather than organise transport themselves.

21. Take a Festive Trip to Oxford

Oxford is another popular day trip from London. The historic university city is known for its architecture, colleges, covered market and independent shops.

It is a good choice if you want to combine the Christmas season with British history and culture.

22. Explore London’s Festive Neighbourhoods

Some of London’s best Christmas displays can be found away from the main shopping streets.

Belgravia, Chelsea and Mayfair are worth exploring for decorated streets, elegant homes, independent shops and restaurants.

These areas can also be combined with central London sightseeing as part of a private Christmas itinerary.

A traditional British mince pie – accompany with mulled wine of the perfect festive treat

23. Try Traditional Christmas Food

Christmas is a good time to try traditional British food.

Look out for mince pies, Christmas pudding, pigs in blankets and roast dinners. For something to warm you up while sightseeing, seasonal drinks such as mulled wine and hot chocolate are also widely available.

24. See London’s Christmas Lights at Night

London looks very different after dark during the Christmas season. The city’s main streets and landmarks are illuminated, making an evening sightseeing trip a completely different experience from exploring London during the day.

London Holiday Lights Tours are a very convenient way to see several Christmas light displays in one evening without having to plan the route yourself. What’s more, having an expert guide on all things London at Christmas makes all the difference, while holiday music plays in the background of your chauffeur driven vehicle.

25. Experience London’s Christmas Highlights with a Private Tour

With Christmas lights, markets, royal landmarks and seasonal attractions spread across London, seeing everything can take some planning.

A private tour gives you the flexibility to build your sightseeing around the places you are most interested in. Instead of navigating public transport between different areas, you can travel with a professional guide and chauffeur while learning more about the city along the way.

At London Magical Tours, our annual holiday special, the Private Magical London Christmas Lights Tour is designed for visitors who want to experience London’s festive highlights in a private setting. The tour includes Christmas lights, markets and other seasonal sights across the city.

Planning Your Christmas Trip to London

London can get very busy during December, particularly at weekends and in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

It is worth booking popular attractions, restaurants and shows in advance. Planning your sightseeing by area can also save time, especially if you want to see several Christmas lights and attractions in one day.

If you are only in London for a few days, consider combining daytime sightseeing with Christmas activities in the evening. This lets you see London’s historic landmarks during the day and experience the city’s Christmas lights after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do in London at Christmas?

Some of the most popular activities include seeing the Christmas lights, visiting Christmas markets, exploring the different London neighbours, visiting Winter Wonderland and watching a West End show.

Where can I see Christmas lights in London?

Popular areas include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street, Carnaby Street, Soho and Mayfair. Many other neighbourhoods also have smaller Christmas displays.

Are London Christmas markets worth visiting?

Yes. London’s Christmas markets offer food, drinks, gifts and seasonal entertainment. The Southbank and Leicester Square are among the popular options.

Is London busy at Christmas?

Yes. December is a busy time in London, particularly around the main shopping areas and popular attractions. Booking popular activities and restaurants in advance is recommended.

Is a private tour worth it in London at Christmas?

A private tour is an excellent way to see several areas in a limited amount of time. A professional guide and chauffeur also make it much easier to travel between London’s Christmas lights, markets and landmarks, providing a one in a lifetime experience that creates memories for all the family to remember for years to come.

Ready to experience London at Christmas? Contact our team to start planning your private tour. For more information about our experiences and services, visit our FAQ page.