Want to experience Christmas in Paris without wasting time on public transport? Just 5 minutes from Saint-Lazare station, the Hôtel R de Paris puts you at the heart of metro lines 3, 12, 13, and 14: ideal for exploring the 2025 Christmas markets. Here are our favorite spots, listed by proximity, with easy access and concierge service notes for a smooth and elegant stay in Paris. Our tip: head out in the late afternoon to enjoy the magical Christmas lights, before relaxing at the spa. This guide blends classic Parisian charm with local neighborhood vibes, allowing you to experience the spirit of winter in a perfectly located boutique hotel.

Less than 15 minutes from the hotel: the charm of Montmartre & gourmet Alsace

Montmartre – Abbesses Christmas Village (18th arrondissement)

A picture-postcard atmosphere at the foot of Sacré-Cœur: "Made in France" chalets, crafts, and mulled wine. Announced dates: November 21, 2025 → January 4, 2026 (subject to local adjustments). Quick access from Saint-Lazare via line 12 (Saint-Lazare → Abbesses, ~8 min), or a 25-minute walk via Rue de Clichy and then the steps up Montmartre. Information on “Going Out in Paris”.

Gare de l’Est – Alsatian Christmas Market (10th arrondissement)

The most “gourmet” of markets: pretzels, gingerbread, flammekueches, and producers from Alsace. 43rd edition scheduled from November 28 to December 14, 2025 under a tent. From Saint-Lazare: Metro Line 12 → Marcadet-Poissonniers → Metro Line 4 Gare de l’Est (approximately 18–20 minutes), or direct bus depending on the schedule (subject to change). Information on “Going Out in Paris”.

Major Stages with Direct Line Access

Tuileries Garden (1st arrondissement)

Food fair + rides + ice rink, very festive atmosphere. Announced dates: November 15, 2025 → January 4, 2026. From Saint-Lazare: Metro Line 14 → Pyramides, then an 8–10 minute walk (or Metro Line 1 Tuileries/Concorde). 2025–2026 Program.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement)

Elegant chalets on Boulevard Saint-Germain, perfect after a stroll along the Left Bank.

Dates: November 25, 2025 → January 6, 2026. Access: Metro Line 14 Saint-Lazare → Châtelet then Metro Line 4 Saint-Germain-des-Prés (approximately 16–18 minutes). Paris, I love you.

Place Saint-Michel (6th arrondissement)

Ultra-central location near the riverbanks, ideal for strolling and gift shopping. Dates: December 5, 2025 → January 5, 2026. From Saint-Lazare: Metro Line 14 → Châtelet, then a short walk. Information.

Panoramic Views & Photo Spots

At the foot of the Eiffel Tower (Quai Jacques-Chirac), a winter market complements the seasonal illuminations (schedule available from December to early January, depending on announcements). Combine it with a cruise or the gardens of the Champ de Mars. Information and updates on the Christmas lights: Paris, I love you.

Mini "door-to-door" itineraries from the Hotel R

  • Abbesses (Montmartre): Direct M12 from Saint-Lazare → Abbesses (3 stops); Return on foot possible via Rue Lepic for a hot chocolate break (approx. 30–35 min).
  • Tuileries: M14 → Pyramides, then walk along the garden (beautiful Haussmannian views).
  • Saint-Germain: M14 → Châtelet then M4; combine with a stop at Saint-Sulpice or Odéon.
  • Gare de l’Est (Alsacien): M12 → Marcadet-Poissonniers → M4; Remember to leave before the dinner rush.

    Concierge Tips for a Chic Winter

    Visit during the week, avoid 4–7 pm on weekends, use contactless payment, and bring a tote bag for your purchases. After your stroll, we look forward to welcoming you to the sauna-hammam and enjoying our gourmet breakfast. For an in-room surprise, consider our Christmas Magic package. For other nearby ideas (Opera, department stores, covered passages), browse our neighborhood page.