The Champs-Élysées Christmas lights are switched on on 22 November 2026 and shine every evening until 3 January 2027. By private car, you can see them in one evening along with Place de la Concorde, the Eiffel Tower and the other illuminated landmarks, without standing in the cold between stops.
When are the Paris Christmas lights in 2026?
The two dates to remember, according to Sortiraparis for the Champs-Élysées and Sortiraparis for the Tuileries:
| Event | 2026-2027 dates | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Champs-Élysées Christmas lights | 22 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 | Lit every evening, all night on 24 and 31 December |
| Champs-Élysées Christmas market | Back this season | Between Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées roundabout |
| Tuileries Christmas market | 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027 | In the Tuileries Garden, next to the Louvre |
The department stores' Christmas windows and the lights in other neighbourhoods complete the picture; their dates change every year, so check them before you plan your evening.
What is the best route to see the Christmas lights by car?
A typical route links the main illuminated sights in one loop, from the Eiffel Tower to the heart of Paris:
- The Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro, the most photographed viewpoint to watch it sparkle.
- The illuminated Champs-Élysées, driving down the avenue from the Arc de Triomphe.
- Place de la Concorde, at the bottom of the avenue, next to the Champs-Élysées Christmas market.
- The Tuileries Garden, for a stop at the Christmas market if you want to walk a little.
- Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité, lit up along the Seine.
Your driver adapts the order and the length of each stop to what you want to see. For example, your driver times the Eiffel Tower around its sparkle and drops you as close as possible for photos.
Why see the Christmas lights by private car on a winter evening?
On a December evening, seeing the lights on foot means miles of walking in the cold and the crowds of the Champs-Élysées. By private car:
- You stay warm between sights, and only step out for the photo stops you choose.
- You see the main illuminated sights in one evening, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame, without changing metro lines.
- Your driver brings you back to your hotel at the end, with no taxi to find in the crowds.
How much is a Christmas lights tour with a private driver?
The Glide Paris by Night tour costs €150 for 2 hours in a Tesla with a private driver, for up to 4 passengers. The price is fixed and includes pickup and drop-off at your Paris hotel. The tour runs after nightfall, and you set the departure time when booking.
Book the Paris by Night tour, €150For a longer evening, say dinner after the lights or a stroll through a Christmas market, hourly hire books the car and driver by the hour: your driver waits wherever you like between each stop.
Payment is taken in full when you book; cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pickup, and 30% is retained after that.
Frequently asked questions
When do the Champs-Élysées Christmas lights switch on in 2026?
On 22 November 2026. They shine every evening until 3 January 2027, and all night on 24 and 31 December.
What are the dates of the Tuileries Christmas market in 2026?
From 14 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, in the Tuileries Garden next to the Louvre.
Is there a Christmas market on the Champs-Élysées in 2026?
Yes, a Christmas market returns to the Champs-Élysées, between Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées roundabout.
How much is a Paris Christmas lights tour with a private driver?
The Glide Paris by Night tour costs €150 for 2 hours in a Tesla with a private driver, for up to 4 passengers, with pickup and drop-off at your Paris hotel included.
Which sights do you see on a Christmas lights tour by car?
The Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro, the illuminated Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Garden and its Christmas market, then Notre-Dame and the Île de la Cité. Your driver adapts the order and the stops to what you want.
Can we get out of the car to take photos?
Yes. Your driver stops at the viewpoints you choose, for example at Trocadéro facing the Eiffel Tower, and waits while you take photos.
What if we want a Christmas evening longer than 2 hours?
Hourly hire books the car and driver by the hour: you combine the lights, a Christmas market and dinner, and your driver waits for you between each stop.
How do I book a Christmas lights tour?
Online, on the Paris by Night tour page: choose the date and departure time, then pay when you book. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pickup.