Like every year, International Castle Day will be celebrated on July 19, 2024. For the occasion, many royal residences and political and cultural institutions in France and around the world are opening their doors to the general public. Near Paris, a vast list of Île-de-France castles allows you to discover these places steeped in history. Discover our favorite selection.

What is Palace Day?

International castle day, called Palade Day , was created in 2015, at the initiative of the Association of European Royal Residences (ARRE). The objective is then to raise awareness among the general public of the importance of preserving historical heritage, but also to introduce people to the artistic and architectural riches of the palaces and castles of the world .

Exceptional events are organized during this day (conferences, guided tours, workshops, etc.), in order to attract visitors and increase the visibility of the monuments.

Our selection of 6 Île-de-France castles

If you live near Paris, or are passing through for the holidays, here is a selection of 6 castles to visit in Île-de-France during the day of July 19.

The Palace of Versailles

Listed as a world heritage site, the Palace of Versailles is a must on this castle day. Official residence of the kings of France, it is both the most visited castle in the world, but also the largest castle in the world.

Located in Yvelines, it represents all the beauty and richness of 17th century art. You can then discover the residence of kings Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI , with the famous hall of mirrors. But you will also have plenty of time to stroll through the vast French gardens , passing through the Domaine du Trianon and the Hameau de la Reine.

The castle of Brie-Comte-Robert

Established since the 12th century in Seine-et-Marne, the Château de Brie-Comte-Robert is located just thirty kilometers from the center of Paris. Initially, the building was built on a square plan, defended by 8 towers and surrounded by a moat. Over the course of historical events, the castle was pillaged and partially destroyed, before being classified as a historic monument and taken care of by the association “Les Amis du Vieux Château de Brie-Comte-Robert”. Archaeological excavations and renovation work were undertaken in 1982.

Today, the visit to Brie-Comte-Robert allows you to understand the functioning of a medieval castle and immerses yourself in more than 8 centuries of history.

The castle of Blandy-les-Tours

Located in Seine-et-Marne, the Blandy-les-Tours castle is a medieval castle marked by wars and time. This true medieval fortress has, however, managed to retain all its presence, and each furnished room reveals the historical richness of the place. A former place of defense, the historic monument then served as a residence before being completely abandoned and falling into ruin in the 19th century. In 1992, major renovation work was undertaken, allowing this ancient fortress with its 4 imposing towers to regain its glory.

Bourron Castle

For this new day in honor of European heritage, let’s stay in Seine-et-Marne, discovering the Bourron Castle . This 17th century family residence , located near Fontainebleau, was built on ancient medieval fortresses, but was never again a place of defense. On the contrary, the estate is a haven of peace full of charm.

The 2019 renovation allows you to admire the presence of this historic monument with 16 elegant rooms and suites, while observing the mix between modernity and tradition. Let yourself be captivated by the beauty of the decoration and period furniture, before going for a walk in the magnificent 40 hectare garden .

Monte Cristo Castle

Our next destination takes you to Yvelines, not far from Saint-Germain-en-Laye, to discover the Monte Cristo Castle . It was in the middle of the 19th century that this exuberant castle saw the light of day, while Alexandre Dumas was trying to find a haven of peace in which to work. Building on his success with The Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers, the writer gives free rein to his imagination, without taking into account the budget.

He will not benefit from it for long, since his bankruptcy will push him to resell his castle with its pretty English gardens . Today, after coming close to destruction, the castle is renovated and open to the public, allowing you to discover the architectural follies of Alexandre Dumas.

Malmaison Castle

For this last visit, let’s go to Hauts-de-Seine, to Rueil-Malmaison. This is where the Château de Malmaison , whose origins of the name are still a mystery, but whose history is remarkable. Built in the Middle Ages, the castle experienced a peaceful period until the French Revolution. There, purchased by Joséphine Bonaparte, the monument became the seat of government of France , before becoming the main residence of its owner.

Today, the Château de Malmaison has become a museum housing numerous works and furniture dating from the beginning of the reign of Napoleon I.International Castle Day is an opportunity to discover or rediscover our cultural heritage. Between a former royal residence and an old medieval fortress, take advantage of Palace Day to visit the castles of Île-de-France.

Paris is the ideal destination for a family vacation. Between historical monuments and cultural places, there is no shortage of ideas for outings. But you still have to have the means, because as a family, the budget can quickly explode. Fortunately, the Cadet residence has listed 8 inexpensive family activities in Paris for you .

The Great Gallery of Evolution

Located in the heart of the Jardin des Plantes, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution knows how to put stars in the eyes of young and old. As soon as you arrive under the 1,000 m² glass roof of the National Museum of Natural History , the display of marine and land animals intrigues and arouses curiosity.

You will then learn, in a fun and dynamic way, all the secrets of the evolution of man and animals , through an educational scenography composed of more than 7,000 stuffed specimens (450 birds, 350 mammals, 360 fish, around a hundred of reptiles…).

Price: €7 to €13, possibility of a family rate

The Porte Dorée tropical aquarium

In the 12th arrondissement of Paris, the Porte Dorée tropical aquarium immerses you in the heart of aquatic biodiversity. Since its inauguration in 1931, this Paris aquarium has been a family activity not to be missed. Parents and children learn about salt and fresh waters around the world, discovering more than 5,000 animals from 300 different species. From vibrant coral reefs to dark abysses, exploration is as educational as it is entertaining.

Not to be missed are the Nile crocodile pool, African dwarf crocodiles and albino alligators!

Price: 7 to 10 €

The archaeological crypt of the Île de la Cité

On the square in front of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, in the 4th arrondissement of Paris, you can take your whole family to discover the archaeological crypt of the Île de la Cité . A real journey through time then begins, through more than 2,000 years of history. From ancient Gallo-Roman Lutetia to medieval Paris, the exposed remains relate the architectural and urban evolution of the capital .

To offer children a fun and educational visit, models, slideshows and guided tours are offered to enhance the experience.

Price: €7 to €9, free for under 18s

The gallery of Man

The Galerie de l’Homme is part of the Musée de l’Homme , in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. On the Place du Trocadéro, the permanent collections invite you to explore the origins, diversity and destiny of the human species, through artifacts, interactive exhibitions and multimedia installations.

The numerous treasures are divided into 3 main themes: “Who are we?”, “Where do we come from?” and “Where are we going?”. The discovery of the human being involves the mobilization of the 5 senses, which makes the visit very fun. We observe, we touch, we listen, we play, we feel…

Price: €10 to €13, free for under 25s

Stroll through the Tuileries gardens

Walks in Parisian parks are one of the free activities that appeal to young and old alike. Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries garden is the ideal place to stroll with the family and get a breath of fresh air. It’s an opportunity to discover the French gardens, to relax and have fun.

For children, play areas are accessible free of charge, and many activities are offered, such as floating a small boat on the waters of the Grand Bassin, participating in a treasure hunt, or riding a trampoline.

Price: free visit and activities at low prices (3 to 5 €)

A gourmet visit to the Chocolate Museum

Foodies young and old will love discovering the origins of chocolate at the Chocolate Museum , in the 10th arrondissement of Paris. On the menu: scent bars, chocolate tastings, utensil collections and fun activities.

For younger children, a fun trail makes the experience more fun, and they can even take part in children’s workshops to make their own chocolate.

Price: €6 to €8, free for children under 6 years old

The Arab World Institute

In the 5th arrondissement of Paris, the Institut du Monde Arabe is one of the free museums for those under 26. Behind this immense glass building hides an incredible collection of objects and works of art relating the history of Arab culture . The link that unites France with the Arab world is highlighted here through temporary and permanent exhibitions and contributes to better understanding and better Franco-Arab dialogue.

Price: €4 to €8, free for under 26s

The Acclimatization Garden

Initially, the Jardin d’Acclimatation aimed to familiarize Parisians with the fauna and flora. We then find a huge green space with many species of flowers and trees. For the youngest, it is above all a large open-air amusement park . Located in the 16th arrondissement, this 18-hectare Paris garden offers 42 rides, attractions and play areas for young and old, as well as the discovery of 450 animals.

Price: €27 to €46, free for children under 80 cm, and possibility of a family rate

Free family outings: good deals in Paris

To visit Paris with your family inexpensively, you need to know some good tips. First of all, you should know that many Parisian museums offer free entry every 1st Sunday of the month . This is the case, in particular, of the Center Pompidou (national museum of modern art), the Musée d’Orsay, the Musée des Arts et Métiers, the musée du quai Branly, and the Musée Guimet.

Other museums and permanent exhibitions are also free all year round , for everyone. This is the case, for example, of the Bourdelle museum, the Petit Palais, or even the museum of romantic life.

Finally, certain museums and historical sites are also free for all young people under 26 , such as the Louvre Museum, the Rodin Museum, the Army Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Victor Hugo House or the Pantheon .Are you planning to stay in Paris? After booking your family apartment hotel At the Cadet residence, you can discover the capital through inexpensive activities that will please everyone.

When you stay in Paris, the days come one after another in a frenzy, between visits to historical monuments and discovery of gourmet addresses. Why not take a break for a few hours to take care of yourself and recharge your batteries? For this, we have selected for you the best spa addresses in the 9th arrondissement of Paris .

The Vendôme by Carita spa, at Maison Albar Hotels

A stone’s throw from the Grands Boulevards, the Vendôme by Carita spa is one of the Cadet Résidence hotel’s favorites. This Parisian spa, in partnership with Carita Paris, welcomes you into a bubble of serenity, with sumptuous decor and a warm atmosphere.

A zen atmosphere for a unique moment of relaxation

The Vendôme spa’s relaxation area is elegantly decorated with chic materials, such as warm wood and refined marble. Everything is enhanced by very designer furniture and little golden touches.

Installed on 350 m², the spa provides you with 4 treatment cabins , for massages or body and facial treatments. But the experience doesn’t stop there, and the Vendôme spa also offers:

●     A shower experience , with a jet at different intensities, and a variable temperature;

●     hammam session ;

●     A Vichy shower , for a protective, massaging and comforting scrub;

●     An indoor swimming pool with a soothing atmosphere.

The Vendôme spa treatment menu

Open every day, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Vendôme spa, at Maison Albar Hôtels, is the fruit of the work and expertise of two sisters: Rosy and Maria Carita. Combining concentrated formulas and technical gestures, Carita innovates traditional cosmetics by offering a break of gentleness and proven results.

From duo treatments to classic body treatments, the spa in the 9th arrondissement of Paris guarantees a moment of intense relaxation, but our favorite is the signature treatment , Le Vendôme. For 1 hour 30 minutes, your 5 senses are brought to life during a unique break of well-being. The oil massage provides deep soothing, while the facial massage gives an absolute glow.

The Hysope Paris Opera spa

Our second spa & well-being address in Paris 9 takes you to number 4 rue de l’Isly, near the Opéra Garnier. Accessible in less than 12 minutes from the Cadet Résidence (metro line 12 or 9, metro station), the Hysope Paris Opéra spa guarantees you exceptional treatments in a friendly atmosphere.

Let go in this cozy place, and enjoy the intimacy of the spa to completely break away from everyday life and find yourself for a moment of sweetness. In a Haussmann building of more than 200 m², the entire team welcomes you for a unique experience of sensoriality and well-being .

Much more than a simple spa, Hysope Paris has 2 treatment cabins (including one for a duo treatment), a hammam , an indoor and outdoor relaxation area , with a green terrace, but also a center fitness center that can be privatized .

In the gym, you will have at your disposal 2 bicycles, 2 treadmills, 2 elliptical bikes and a weight machine. When it comes to well-being, let yourself be guided by the expert hands of professionals, for a real break in an oasis of tranquility.

The Secret of Elena wellness area

From the Cadet Résidence, head towards the Sacré-Coeur basilica, and stop at 95, rue de Dunkerque, Paris 9. Here, the Elena massage parlor awaits you in its wellness area with soft scents and the cocooning atmosphere.

As soon as you arrive, you will immerse yourself in a Zen atmosphere, thanks to the soft lights and light shades of this institute, but also thanks to the warm welcome from the two qualified and passionate beauticians.

Once installed in the treatment room, several options are available to you:

●     LPG treatments to fight cellulite;

●     Californian massage with hot oils for absolute relaxation;

●     Reiki massage to soothe the body and mind;

●     Energy treatment to rebalance your energies and relieve stress…

Singjan sabaikaya: the Cadet residence’s favorite spa

Let’s finish our overview of the spas in the 9th arrondissement by presenting the Cadet Résidence’s favorite: the Traditional Thai massage parlor Singjan Sabaikaya . Located near the Pigalle metro station, less than 15 minutes from our aparthotel, this wellness center offers you an exquisite relaxation experience through multiple traditional expertise directly derived from Thai know-how.

●     Thai massage : this traditional Buddhist massage provides immediate well-being and acts as prevention or therapy against fatigue, back pain, or even anxiety;

●     Massage with warm essential oils : this relaxing massage uses the virtues of essential oils to soothe and offer a feeling of well-being;

●     Plantar reflexology massage : this foot massage stimulates both the muscles and the circulation of lymph and energy. It is ideal for relieving digestive problems or blood circulation disorders.

Are you dreaming of a moment of sweetness? Our selection of spas in Paris 19th arrondissement ensures you quality treatments in an intimate atmosphere, a stone’s throw from the Cadet Résidence.If you are looking for a hotel with a Spa , or a hotel with a swimming pool, go to the Hôtel du Cadran or the B55!

The most difficult thing when you want to go shopping in Paris is to choose a specific neighborhood or district for your shopping, as there are so many beautiful boutiques everywhere in the capital. So, to help you not get lost, the Cadet Résidence has listed for you the shopping places in the 9th arrondissement , a stone’s throw from the hotel.

Le Passage du Havre shopping center

Located opposite the Saint Lazare station, in the 9th arrondissement, Passage du Havre is a shopping center which was opened in 1990, before being renovated in 2012. This shopping gallery now has 40 stores , open 7 days a week from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday and Friday), and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

At Passage du Havre, we find all the stores necessary to satisfy the slightest desire: clothing store, shoe boutique, fashion brand… Among the biggest references, we note the FNAC, spread over 3 floors, but also Nature & Découvertes, Sephora, Fossil…

And if window shopping leaves you feeling a bit peckish, the shopping arcade also has food outlets. You can then enjoy a treat on the terrace or in the wooded garden.

Good to know: Passage du Havre refers to rue du Havre, a small lane a stone’s throw from the shopping center.

Shopping at Galeries Lafayette

In the Grands Boulevards district , Boulevard Haussmann is a must for shopping lovers. There are prestigious brands there, including department stores, such as Galeries Lafayette .

Spread over 3 buildings, the main one of which is inspired by Art Nouveau decor, this immense Parisian shopping center catches the eye with its large dome and stained glass windows. But it is above all the interior that fascinates visitors, since there is a monumental triple staircase and hundreds of shops.

Over 7 floors and 45,000 m² , more than 3,500 brands are accessible 7 days a week, and for all budgets. From ready-to-wear for men, women and children to jewelry, jewelry to leather goods, toys to luxury fashion, this shopping center in the 9th arrondissement is a bargain paradise. Gourmets will also find what they are looking for here, thanks to the numerous delicatessen stores and restaurants.

Shopping at Printemps Haussmann

We cannot talk about Galeries Lafayette without mentioning Printemps Haussmann . Another hot spot for Parisian shopping, this shopping center in the 9th arrondissement is an invitation to glamor and chic.

In the Opéra district and the Grands Boulevards district, Printemps is a reference for beauty, fashion and luxury. Hundreds of brands, from the most popular to the most luxurious, are spread across the 3 9-story buildings : perfumery, jewelry, leather goods, lingerie, shoes, beauty…

Open 7 days a week, Printemps Haussmann is also an architectural gem, particularly renowned for its 4 corner rotundas, where we find the name of the prestigious store. There are also statues of the four seasons. Inside, the immense dome offers breathtaking light during each shopping session and highlights the monumental central staircase.

Anecdote: Printemps Haussmann was the first department store entirely lit by electricity.The stores in the 9th arrondissement of Paris are both a Mecca for Parisian shopping and rich historical sites. To get good deals or to admire the place, go to the Grands Boulevards district, in the immediate vicinity of the Cadet Résidence.

Every year in September, the Garden Festival is an opportunity to discover or rediscover the most beautiful gardens in France during sumptuous walks. La Cadet Résidence takes this opportunity to address a more unusual aspect of Parisian green spaces, by revealing 7 anecdotes about Paris gardens .

A work by Picasso stolen from Square Laurent-Prache

In 1941, the famous Spanish painter Pablo Picasso created a bronze statue, in homage to Dora Maar, his companion and muse of the moment. This work, dedicated to Guillaume Apollinaire, was then offered to the city of Paris in 1959. The Head of Dora Maar was then exhibited in the Laurent-Prache square , in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. It remained there for 40 years without problem, until March 31, 1999. That day, we discovered that the bronze statue weighing almost 80 kilos had disappeared .

Despite numerous searches, it remained untraceable until 2000, when the statue mysteriously reappeared…in the town hall of Osny , in Val d’Oise! The mayor admitted to having recovered this statue without knowing its origin, even though municipal police officers had found it in a ditch.

Back in Paris in 2001, the bust of Dora Maar returned to its square, without us ever knowing what had happened to it.

The back door to Balzac’s garden

Many literature lovers like to go to Balzac’s house , in the 16th arrondissement, to discover the writer’s real home, and the perfect reconstruction of his place of life and work. Arriving on site, you can also admire the author’s pretty little garden , offering a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower.

The unusual anecdote then concerns the little hidden door that can be seen at the bottom of the garden. This is how Balzac managed to escape his creditors, when he was really broke.

The garden of the Palais Royal: the origin of the expression “at midday sharp”

Everyone has used the expression “at midday” at least once in their life. But do you know what it means, and what is its origin?

It dates back to the year 1786, near the garden of the Palais Royal. A watchmaker neighbor invented a device allowing a small cannonball to be launched at noon sharp ! To do this, he used a magnifying glass and a cannon loaded with black powder. At noon, when the sun was at its zenith, the concentration of hot rays through the magnifying glass made it possible to light the fuse and trigger the mechanism.

Nearby, in the garden of the Palais Royal , visitors could only notice that each time the sundial indicated noon, a small cannon shot “fart”. So people met at “hot noon”!

The watchmaker’s device was stolen in 1998, then reinstalled in 2004, but without the magnifying glass. The cannon now thunders mechanically, at high noon, a few Wednesdays a month.

Alpine gardens in the heart of Paris

We all know that each plant requires specific conditions to grow. But several Parisian gardeners have challenged themselves to defy the laws of nature, by growing alpine plants on the Parisian plains . The gardeners of the Floral Park went to look for seeds in the French Alps and rocks in the Pyrenees, to reproduce the growing conditions of vegetation on high summits.

In the Bagatelle garden , trees and plants from the south were transported and replanted in the heart of Paris. In this atypical green space, we find Mediterranean vegetation , with holm oaks, Balearic boxwood, and even shrubby heather.

Sparkling water in Parisian parks

Water fountains are present everywhere in Paris: in parks, in the streets and in gardens. They allow passers-by to quench their thirst while enjoying free, fresh drinking water. To make these water points elegant, numerous fountains are erected, such as the Mât Source and its mister, the Albien fountain , which draws its water from the water table more than 600 meters deep, or the sublime Wallace Fountain .

But did you know that some Parisian fountains also dispense sparkling water ? The first was installed in 2010, in the Reuilly garden , making Paris the first city to offer free sparkling water from public fountains. Since then, 17 new sparkling water fountains have been installed in the capital.

Seeds from the Plant garden under close surveillance

Perhaps you have already visited the Jardin des Plantes . Maybe you even feel like you’ve come full circle. However, did you know that part of this park in the 5th arrondissement was under close surveillance? And the objects of all attention are more than surprising, since they are thousands of seeds from France and Europe .

The seed bank of the National Museum of Natural History has no less than 25,000 seeds, collected since 1840. They are all placed under high vigilance, with the help of the customs service, the police, and even the poison control center .

The Bercy Park grain library open to the general public

If the grain library in the Jardin des Plantes is closed to the public, that of the Parc de Bercy , in the 12th arrondissement, is intended for visitors and gardening enthusiasts. Few people know it, but on the door of the gardening house there is a rack shelf in which amateur gardeners place bags of various seeds . Individuals can then help themselves, in exchange for other packets of seeds. Depending on the seasons, you can then find something to flower your balconies or feed your vegetable garden: lettuce seeds, hollyhock seeds, pumpkin seeds, etc.

Do you like unusual visits to Paris? You can then set off to discover these Paris gardens with their well-hidden little secrets , and pass on these curiosities to those around you.

Christmas is the family celebration par excellence. Surrounded by our loved ones, we take advantage of this end of the year to spend good times and rest. And between two pampering evenings and two festive meals, why not treat yourself to a moment of escape by discovering the program of the best shows to see with your family in Paris ?

Shows with all the Disney heroes

Childhood is often rocked by Disney cartoons and people. So, to put stars in children’s eyes and give adults a moment of great nostalgia, here are some shows that feature all your favorite Disney people.

Disney on Ice: believe in your dreams

Combining the elegance of ice skating and the magic of the most beautiful Disney songs, the show “ Believe in your dreams ” takes on the appearance of a magical musical comedy. Come sing with Jasmine and Aladdin, dance with Moana and chill with Anna and Elsa at the Disney on Ice show.

Address: Zénith de Paris, 211 avenue Jean Jaurès, 19th arrondissement;

Dates: December 6 to 17, 2023.

The Magic of Waters, at the Grand Rex

Come and discover the magical world of Wish, the new film from Disney Studios, but first, embark on the new experience of the Water Fairy of the Grand Rex, between water games, special effects, wild music and lights.

Address: the Grand Rex, 1 boulevard Poissonnière, 2nd arrondissement;

Dates: November 22, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Peter Pan, the musical

Follow Tinkerbell closely, she will guide you to Neverland, to meet Peter Pan , Wendy, the Lost Children, and even Captain Hook. The stage adaptation of this famous folk tale offers you an exceptional experience discovering the magic of musicals .

Address: Bobino theater, 14-20 rue de la Gaîté, 14th arrondissement;

Dates: October 7, 2023 to February 14, 2024.

The Jungle Book, the musical

The Jungle Book musical takes you on a journey through a magical and colorful production. Mowgli, Baloo and all their friends perform choreographies amidst laughter and good humor, for a musical adventure that you will never forget.

Address: Marie Bell gymnasium theater, 38 boulevard Bonne Nouvelle, 10th arrondissement;

Dates: October 7, 2023 to January 6, 2024.

The musical tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The must-have children’s tale from the Brothers Grimm reminds you of the crazy story of Snow White and her friends , the 7 dwarfs. Through light projections, music and holograms, the extraordinary journey arouses many emotions, from the scary witch to the amusing dwarves.

Address: Théâtre de la Gaîté-Montparnasse, 26 rue de la Gaîté, 14th arrondissement;

Dates: October 7, 2023 to May 8, 2024.

Shows with Santa Claus

To extend the magic of Christmas until the end of the school holidays, there is no shortage of shows featuring Santa Claus in Paris.

Santa Claus has a cold

Have you ever thought about what would happen if Santa fell ill on the day of gift giving? Discover this funny adventure at the Folie Théâtre, while Santa Claus is already showing all the signs of a bad cold . Between jokes and sweet songs, the holiday spirit continues until January 7.

Address: at the Folie Théâtre, 6 rue de la Folie Mérocourt, 11th arrondissement;

Dates: November 8, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Panic at Christmas

This time, Santa is really sick ! Through an interactive show, the troupe of artists invites you to decide what happens next. Will you be able to make the right decisions and save Christmas?

Address: Abbesses factory, 7 rue Véron, 18th arrondissement;

Dates: November 25, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

It’s not Santa who wants

General alert: Santa Claus has disappeared ! You must therefore find a replacement, and you will be at the forefront of this extraordinary recruitment. Between laughter, good humor and lovely songs, embark on this funny adventure.

Address: Essaïon theater, 6 rue Pierre au Lard, 4th arrondissement;

Dates: November 22, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Christmas on the roofs

This year, Arthur and Louise will not miss the visit of Santa Claus. They thought of everything: thermos and binoculars. You then find them on the roof of their building . While they wait for Santa Claus, experience a poetic and loving moment in the company of the two children.

Address: Théâte Essaïon, 7 rue Pierre au Lard, 4th arrondissement;

Dates: November 29, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Do you want to offer a captivating and magical experience to your whole family? The family Christmas program in Paris is sure to make you experience an unforgettable adventure, through a wonderful world for young and old.

In all seasons, Paris immerses the visitor in a magical atmosphere, and even more so when the end-of-year holidays come. The city lights up and puts on its most beautiful clothes to soak up the Christmas atmosphere around every street. And for an even more magical experience, the light trails of Paris invite you for an enchanting stroll that will amaze you.

Parc de la Villette: Dali’s extravagant light trail

The end-of-year holiday season is conducive to magic and daydreaming. Immerse yourself in the extravagant and luminous atmosphere imagined by Salvatore Dali , at Parc de la Villette. After an exhibition dedicated to Tim Burton, this year the experience invites you to discover the works of the Spanish painter who made him famous: Elephant of Triumph, Alice in Wonderland, The Profile of Time… The surrealist pieces are scattered throughout a luminous and audiovisual walk, creating a link between art and nature.

Address: Parc de la Villette, 221 avenue Jean Jaurès, 19th arrondissement;

Dates: November 16, 2023 to January 21, 2024.

Jardin des Plantes: Jungle in the process of enlightenment

On the occasion of the end-of-year celebrations, the Garden of plantsis also adorned with beautiful illuminations to make young and old alike dream. In 2023, lush nature will immerse you in the magic of Christmas, with an abundant trail that looks like a tropical forest. Venture into this jungle in the process of enlightenment , to encounter spectacular fauna and flora: immense luminous structures, giant flowers, formidable felines, astonishing frogs… So many wonders as surprising as they are charming.

Address: Jardin des Plantes, place Valhubert, 5th arrondissement;

Dates: November 22, 2023 to January 21, 2024.

Floral park: the luminous odyssey

When night falls at the Floral Park , the magic happens and immerses you in a poetic and wonderful atmosphere. The luminous odyssey opens the doors to a secret and magical world, which will take you across the whole world, and all the way to Lapland, where you will have the chance to admire the Northern Lights . Open your eyes wide, the walk promises to be magnificent, and the numerous paintings highlighted will leave stars in your eyes.

Address: Paris floral park, route de la Pyramide, 12th arrondissement;

Dates: November 28, 2023 to January 7, 2024.

Domaine national de Saint-Cloud: Lights in the Seine

At nightfall, the Saint-Cloud estate takes you on a journey, through the Lumières en Seine route . This nighttime stroll shines brightly, along a sparkling 2 km route. Discover this immersive experience in music and light, and fully experience the magic of the end-of-year holidays. Keep your eyes peeled so you don’t miss anything from the illuminated water lilies, the starry trees, or even Santa’s sleigh.

Address: domaine national de Saint-Cloud, 1 avenue de la grille d’honneur, Saint-Cloud (92);

Dates: November 17, 2023 to January 14, 2024.

Jardin d’Acclimatation: Dragons and lanterns

From December onwards, the Jardin d’Acclimatation is highlighted with the Dragons and Lanterns festival . Unprecedented in Europe, this magical journey introduces you to a major work of Chinese literature, the Book of Mountains and Seas. Rub shoulders with fantastical creatures and stroll along the paths of the garden, lit by traditional Chinese lanterns, created by the artisans of the Shanghai Yuyuan garden.

Address: Jardin d’Acclimatation, Carrefour des sablons, Bois de Boulogne, 16th arrondissement;

Dates: from December 15, 2023 to February 25, 2024.

Thoiry: Wild Lights

In Thoiry, the Lumières Sauvages route takes you to Asia. For its 6th edition, the light trail revolves around the magnificent 8 meter high temple. Facing the stars, it features the steppes of Mongolia, a giant Buddha, or even a lush jungle, for a sparkling and dreamlike stroll.

Address: Thoiry zoo, rue du pavilion de Montreuil, Thoiry (78);

Dates: October 29, 2023 to March 10, 2024.

Imagine your own light trail in Paris

From December 1st, all cities in France get ready to prepare for the end of year celebrations with dignity. In Paris more than anywhere else, Christmas promises to be grandiose, and each district of the City of Lights decorates its streets and shops. So, why not imagine your own luminous journey, following the Parisian illuminations ? Here is an itinerary that will not make you miss any of the most beautiful magical Christmas displays. To begin with, go to the magical Golden Triangle:

• The avenue des Champs-Élysées : going up the Champs is almost essential to admire the hundreds of illuminated trees and the facades of the decorated shops, and to soak up the magic of Christmas;
• The Department Stores on Boulevard Haussmann : every year, the decoration of the windows of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann makes passers-by dream and lights up everyone’s faces;
• The Royal Village : head to Place de la Concorde, in Rue Royale, where superb decorations and a large illuminated tree are installed every year;
• Place Maurice Barrès : near Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme, this square is magnificently decorated throughout the month of December;
• The Christmas market in the Jardin des Tuileries : with its funfair and Ferris wheel, this Paris Christmas market is a must during the holidays;
• The Vivienne Gallery : in the 2nd arrondissement, this covered passage is adorned with its most beautiful finery for Christmas. The setting is ideal for buying the last few gifts in a magical atmosphere.
• Don’t forget to go see the superb illuminations of the Eiffel Tower !

Are you planning to experience the magic of the Christmas holidays in Paris? Put on your warmest coat, and stroll along the magical and luminous routes of the capital.