Winter in Paris

The end-of-year celebrations are all about good food and happiness, as the prospect of winter invites us to enjoy a little pampering and open another window in that Advent calendar.

With Christmas looming, it’s time to come up with some imaginative ideas for the perfect gift. Are you tired of the usual checked plaids and scented candles found under the Christmas tree year after year? The shops of Paris Region are as creative as can be. With original concept stores, shops full of cuddly toys, designer boutiques and other outlets, you’ll find everything you need to spoil children and adults alike… and treat yourself into the bargain.

There’s no better way to warm body and soul than indulging in a winter feast. Between the Savoie-style restaurants, medieval taverns and cosy pubs, you’ll have plenty of choice of venues for a moment of togetherness among friends. As for food outlets, the food artisans and fine-food stores pull out all the stops to make your Christmas meals truly memorable. Then there are the inevitable chocolates, made for sharing or offering as Christmas or New Year gifts.

The winter season also comes with a fabulous cultural programme to see out the year. Stage musicals, winter ballets and other shows plunge you into an atmosphere as magical as it gets. This is also the time of year when the streets sparkle with Christmas lights, each more magical than the last… A real feast for the eyes.

Prefer to swap your fur-lined slippers for high heels or loafers, and your winter jumper for a cocktail dress or suit? Just as well, because the clubs and bars of Paris are oozing with glitz and glitter to make your end-of-year celebrations as festive as they come.