Christmas in Paris Episode 2 | I Tried Europe’s Biggest Ice Rink (Grand Palais) ⛸️✨

If there’s one thing Paris does better than anywhere else in December, it’s turning ordinary winter days into something cinematic. Twinkling lights, hot chocolate stops, elegant window displays… and this year, one experience was at the very top of my Christmas-in-Paris bucket list: skating at the Grand Palais, on what’s often described as Europe’s biggest indoor ice rink.

In this episode, I’m taking you with me for a magical evening of ice skating under the iconic glass roof — a place that feels like Paris meets a winter fairytale.

Why the Grand Palais ice rink is so special

Paris has plenty of charming outdoor rinks, but the Grand Palais is different. The moment you walk in, you feel it: the scale, the light, the architecture, the energy. Skating under that giant glass dome is one of those “I can’t believe I’m actually here” moments.

The atmosphere is a mix of:

• elegant Parisian winter vibes
• a festive holiday crowd
• music, lights, and that cozy excitement you only get in December

It’s not just an activity — it’s a whole Christmas experience.

My honest experience (and what surprised me)

I’m going to be honest: I expected it to be beautiful… but I didn’t expect it to feel this magical.

The best part?

The setting. The Grand Palais is already breathtaking, but at Christmas, it becomes unreal. The reflections on the ice, the lights, the echo of laughter under the dome… it’s the kind of memory that stays with you.

The most surprising part?

How many different “levels” of skaters were there. You’ll see:

• people who glide like professionals
• couples holding hands (very romantic)
• first-timers clinging to the side walls
• and a few brave souls attempting spins (sometimes successfully 😅)

And honestly? That’s what makes it fun. It’s not intimidating — it’s festive.

Tips if you want to skate at the Grand Palais

If you’re planning to do this in Paris (or adding it to your winter itinerary), here are my best tips:

1) Book early (seriously)

It’s one of the most popular holiday activities in Paris, and time slots can sell out quickly.

2) Go in the evening for peak magic

The lights hit differently at night. If you want that “Paris Christmas movie” atmosphere, evening sessions are everything.

3) Dress warm but cute

You’ll want layers because it gets cold — but Paris-cold, not mountain-cold. My go-to:

• a chic wool coat or puffer
• gloves (non-negotiable)
• a scarf + warm socks
• and something comfortable you can move in

4) Don’t overthink your skating level

Even if you’re not confident, it’s still worth going. You can take it slow — and the vibe is very “everyone is here to have fun.”

Is it worth it?

Yes — for the experience alone.

Paris has so many beautiful Christmas moments, but this one feels unique because it combines:

• a legendary monument
• a festive activity
• the romance of winter in Paris
• and a setting you can’t find anywhere else

It’s one of those “only in Paris” things.

Watch the episode 🎥

If you want to see the full experience — the atmosphere, the outfits, the lights, and my real-time reactions — you can watch Christmas in Paris Episode 2: I Tried Europe’s Biggest Ice Rink (Grand Palais) ⛸️✨ on my YouTube channel.

👉 Tip: If you’re part of Le Club, you get the full cozy, extended version (more behind-the-scenes + the best moments).

More Christmas in Paris ideas you’ll love

If you’re planning a winter trip to Paris, here are a few other magical things to do:

• Galeries Lafayette Christmas tree + rooftop views
• Champs-Élysées lights walk
• Place Vendôme and Rue Saint-Honoré decorations
• hot chocolate at Angelina or a palace hotel tea time
• winter window displays (department stores do it best)