28 Oct Christmas and New Year holidays in Paris without breaking the bank
Want to spend the holiday season in Paris without breaking the bank? Between the illuminations, the animated window displays of the department stores and the Christmas markets, the capital offers many opportunities to enjoy the magic of the holidays on a budget.
By planning your stay, your activities and even your meals, you will discover a magical yet accessible Paris!
What to do in Paris during the holidays on a small budget?
Want to discover Paris at Christmas without spending too much? Opt for free activities and entertainment:
- Christmas Lights. From November 22, 2026 to January 4, 2027, come and admire the illuminations on the Champs-Élysées ; the official launch of the lights is scheduled for November 22 during a special evening when the avenue will be pedestrianized. The patron of this year’s event will be revealed on October 28, 2026. You can also stroll through the Christmas market, which will take place during these same dates.
- Department Store Windows *. Stroll along Boulevard Haussmann to admire the windows of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. At Printemps , the theme of the windows is “A Well-Knitted Christmas”.
At Galeries Lafayette , discover “At the Heart of Christmas”, fantastic characters and a majestic Christmas tree imagined by Jean-Charles de Castelbajac.
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, for its part, is offering window displays this year designed around the theme “The Christmas Village”: a mountain setting with snow-covered chalets and entertainment.
- A royal stroll away from the crowds. Right next to the Louvre, the Domaine National du Palais-Royal offers a superb historical escape. Access to the main courtyard (and its famous Buren columns) as well as the gardens is free and perfect for an elegant and peaceful winter walk.
- A stroll through the Tuileries Gardens. During the winter, the Tuileries Garden transforms into a magical, family-friendly funfair in the heart of Paris. Entry is free, allowing you to wander through the gardens in a festive atmosphere (some attractions require payment). You can also explore the Tuileries Christmas Market for a delightful and delicious experience.
- Riverboat cruise . Treat yourself to an affordable outing with a riverboat cruise to see the illuminations from the Seine (17 to 20€ on average).
- Glasswalk at Galeries Lafayette. Walk on the suspended glass walkway at Galeries Lafayette to observe and photograph the large Christmas tree high above, free of charge.
- The enchanted forest at Paris City Hall. Discover the magical setting installed on the forecourt with its carousel for children and many free activities.
*Due to the demonstrations, the opening dates of the window displays are subject to change. Stay informed by visiting the Sortir à Paris website .
The 3-star aparthotel: the practical and comfortable solution
Apparthotel Torcy, 3-star accommodation for discovering Paris at the best value for money
Located in Torcy in Seine-et-Marne, the 3-star Apparthotel Torcy offers studio rooms and family apartments designed to accommodate up to 4 people.
By choosing your accommodation to the east of the capital, you avoid the crowds and high prices of the heart of Paris, while benefiting from easy access via public transport and roads.
Our family rooms are equipped with kitchenettes, so you can prepare your own meals and limit your spending at restaurants during your stay.
- Rooms equipped with kitchenettes and a fridge for preparing your meals
- High-end bedding in all rooms
- Reversible air conditioners in all rooms
- Low-cost continental buffet breakfast (or takeaway)
- Unlimited Wi-Fi access included
- Free and monitored parking
- Pets allowed
- Near RER A
- Near Bay 1 Shopping Centre
Discover our range of rooms: