Paris in winter

While our families were disappointed that we didn’t visit them for Thanksgiving this year, we took advantage of the days off from school to get away for a Parisian holiday. And, if you ever have the chance to do the same, take it! The best thing about visiting Paris in the winter is that even a cold rainy day, the raindrops sparkle like glitter over the City of Lights.

Paris during Christmas time, particularly the Champs-Élysées, is a sight to behold. The iconic avenue transforms into a dazzling spectacle, adorned with magnificent lights that cast a warm glow over the city. The tree-lined boulevard becomes a haven of enchantment, with festive decorations hanging from every lamppost and shop window. Strolling along the Champs-Élysées, you can't help but be captivated by the elegant storefronts displaying exquisite holiday displays. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the joyful chatter of locals and visitors alike. Indulge in the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting from the charming patisseries (La Duree is a MUST!), and warm up with a cup of rich hot chocolate from a nearby café. The Champs-Élysées at Christmas time captures the essence of Parisian elegance and adds a touch of magic to the city of lights.

Here’s what we learned about Paris during our time there. Fair warning: a few may be controversial!

The Mona Lisa is overrated

Of course, we visited the Louvre on Day 1. Although we thought we were prepared for jetlag, poor Archer literally fell asleep while walking through the halls of one of the most significant art collections in the world. Maybe that is why his critique of the Mona Lisa was so harsh. Still, Kylee adored wandering when we weren’t seeking out the dozens of pieces on her list.

The Eiffel Tower is exceptional from every angle

On our first night, we ran up the steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe just in time to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle. The kiddos had no idea about the twinkling, so I got to turn my face toward them and watch their faces light up instead. One of my favorite moments for certain.

Escargot is worth trying

We actually had to google “can eating too many escargots make you sick?” because Archer found his new favorite food in Parisian snails.

the city itself is the most incredible museum

Our walking tours through Montmartre, Le Marais, Latin Quarter, and Saint Germain are the way I want to think about Paris. It's such a gentler pace and lacks the tourists and the cheesy souvenirs we prefer to avoid. Strolling the same streets as Van Gogh, Picasso, and Hemmingway made us feel more creative and inspired by every gray cloud or scattered ray of light.

A day trip to Versailles was initially part of our “optional” list, but we are so glad that we moved it into the itinerary. Taking an Uber out first thing in the morning was definitely the way to go and we were even more pleased with ourselves as we viewed the line when we exited a few hours later.

Pastries did not disappoint

Although we ate plenty of baguettes, macarons, croissants and pastries during our stay, we also felt compelled to take ‘just one more’ stop into a patisserie and a boulangerie to console ourselves on the train ride leaving Paris. Laduree and Pierre Herme are requirements for macarons, while just about every boulangerie bakes incredible breads each day. Bonus points if you have to use your French because the shop doesn’t cater to tourists!