Celebrate Thanksgiving the Paris Way: Food, Views, and Culture

Wondering how to enjoy Thanksgiving abroad? Paris has you covered in every way!

Published: March 23, 2026
Family Having a Thanksgiving Meal

Spending Thanksgiving in Paris puts a delightful twist on tradition—think golden roast turkey with a side of Parisian charm and world-class pastries standing in for pumpkin pie! Whether you want a classic American feast, a French-inspired holiday meal, or simply some cozy moments in one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Paris is ready to serve up a Thanksgiving to remember. We’ve gathered top picks for dining, exploring and making the day special, from festive restaurants to sparkling city adventures. Get ready to raise a glass (or a croissant) and give thanks, Parisian-style! 

Our favorite ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in Paris include: 

  • Dining at Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner 
  • Having a Thanksgiving Picnic on the Seine 
  • Exploring the Musée d’Orsay for Artful Gratitude 
  • Savoring Seasonal Pastries at Parisian Bakeries 
  • City Views from Tour Montparnasse 
  • Joining a Fall Market Stroll 
  • Holiday Shopping at Galeries Lafayette 
  • Sipping French Wine Pairings at Les Caves du Louvre 
  • Enjoying a Seine River Cruise 

Dining at Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner 

Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like turkey and stuffing, and Paris delivers for homesick travelers and foodies alike. Head to Joe Allen, a long-loved American bistro decked out in NYC-style décor near the Louvre, for a feast of roast turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and classic pies—loaded with warmth and nostalgia. The restaurant bustles with locals, expats, and visitors savoring an authentic holiday meal.  

Another beloved spot, Breakfast in America, decks the tables with generous plates of Thanksgiving comfort (and the all-day breakfast is a bonus). Meanwhile, the American Church in Paris hosts a festive and friendly Thanksgiving dinner open to all, turning strangers into instant friends over pumpkin soup and pecan pie. Booking ahead is essential, as these spots fill fast! Whether you’re craving home flavors or just want to join in the holiday spirit, these restaurants guarantee a heartwarming Thanksgiving in the City of Light. 

Creating Your Own Thanksgiving Picnic on the Seine 

Why not swap a formal dinner for a Parisian picnic? Gather rotisserie chicken or duck from Marché Bastille or Rue Cler. Pile your basket with baguettes, French cheeses, seasonal apples and an early Beaujolais Nouveau, released just in time for the holiday. Find a spot along the Seine, perhaps the snowy Pont des Arts or beneath the Eiffel Tower, and dine with a view as boats drift by.  

Parisian autumn adds a cozy vibe—think crisp air, swirling leaves and street musicians in the background. Treat yourself to pastries or a tart from a nearby boulangerie for a sweet finish. This do-it-yourself Thanksgiving is spontaneous, budget-friendly, and impossibly romantic. Don’t forget a blanket for your riverside feast and a toast to gratitude, French wine in hand. It’s easy, delicious—and totally unforgettable. 

Exploring the Musée d’Orsay for Artful Gratitude

Musée d'Orsay

If you fancy celebrating Thanksgiving with creativity and quiet reflection, spend a few hours at the Musée d’Orsay. Housed in a stunning old train station, the museum fills with sunbeams through its vaulted glass roof—which feels especially magical in late November’s crisp light. Wander through galleries showcasing Impressionist giants like Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh, and soak up the beauty and history that surround you.  

Pausing in front of a favorite painting offers a delightful moment of gratitude for art, travel and adventure. The museum is less crowded than during peak spring, granting you peaceful space to meander. Grab a coffee in the grand clock café overlooking the Seine—a spot that’s both serene and striking. You’ll leave feeling inspired, refreshed and extra thankful for Paris’ creative spirit. 

Savoring Seasonal Pastries at Parisian Bakeries 

No Thanksgiving is complete without dessert, and Paris’ bakeries are ready to satisfy any sweet craving. Swap pumpkin pie for a glorious apple or pecan tart from Poilâne, where buttery crust meets perfectly spiced filling. Indulge in chestnut cakes or caramel-pecan flan at La Maison Pichard—just the right combination of seasonal and decadent.  

Pick up a few treats and enjoy a dessert picnic in a park or with coffee at your hotel. The fragrances of toasted nuts, cinnamon, and caramel will transport you—even without the pumpkin. It’s an easy, joyful way to celebrate Thanksgiving in Paris, one irresistible pastry at a time. 

Taking in City Views from Tour Montparnasse 

Step away from the Thanksgiving table and take in Paris from above at Tour Montparnasse. This modern skyscraper’s rooftop terrace boasts one of the city’s most sweeping panoramic views—Eiffel Tower front and center, the Seine winding below, city lights twinkling as dusk falls. As autumn sunsets come earlier, you’ll catch golden-hour magic and sparkling cityscapes, all while avoiding the crowds of more famous viewpoints.  

Inside, interactive displays tell Paris’ hidden stories, and the bar on the observation floor makes it easy to toast to gratitude with a glass of champagne. Bundle up and snap a selfie with those remarkable views as your backdrop—seasonal, festive and perfect for sharing with loved ones back home. Few experiences in Paris balance relaxation and excitement as seamlessly as this one. 

Joining a Fall Market Stroll 

Experience Thanksgiving the Paris way with a cheerful stroll through a bustling autumn market. Marché d’Aligre and Marché des Enfants Rouges brim with colorful produce—think crunchy apples, earthy mushrooms, and heaps of fresh herbs. Browse cheese stalls, discover French seasonal specialties, and pick up fresh bread or pastries for a homemade holiday spread.  

Many markets offer unexpected finds like American cranberries or festive sweets, letting you add your own twist to the feast. Tasting and shopping alongside Parisians is an experience in itself—delightfully informal, totally authentic, and full of energy. You’ll feel like you belong, whether you’re mingling with market-goers or simply people-watching over a café au lait. 

Experiencing Holiday Shopping at Galeries Lafayette

Woman on Balcony at Galeries Lafeyette

Start the holiday season in style with a visit to Galeries Lafayette. This iconic department store—nestled beneath a breathtaking stained-glass dome—goes all out from late November, dazzling visitors with extravagant Christmas decorations, sparkling lights and elaborate window displays. Each floor features French and international brands, plus gourmet treats and beautiful gifts for everyone.  

The rooftop terrace offers spectacular city views, adding a festive sparkle to your shopping day. Even if you’re not after souvenirs, wandering among the twinkling trees and smelling holiday spices makes spirits bright. Frequent live music, pastry pop-ups and fun photo ops turn shopping into a celebration. For a little extra magic, grab a seasonal pastry from the food hall and munch it while admiring the city stretching out beneath you. 

Sipping French Wine Pairings at Les Caves du Louvre 

Elevate your Thanksgiving toast with a wine tasting at Les Caves du Louvre, an atmospheric cellar once used by royalty. On guided tours and workshops, expert sommeliers introduce you to the world of French wine—helping you discover which reds, whites or bubbles suit your holiday meal. Guided tastings run from bold Bordeaux to bright Alsatian wines, complete with fun anecdotes and food pairings (think: cheese, charcuterie, or even cranberry-inspired treats).  

The candle-lit stone rooms feel mysterious and cozy, ideal for unwinding after a busy Thanksgiving. You’ll pick up a few wine secrets and maybe even blend your own bottle as a memorable keepsake. The whole experience is interactive, hands-on and warms you from the inside out—just what you want after a Parisian November day. 

Enjoying a Seine River Cruise 

End your Thanksgiving in style with a leisurely Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise. As evening falls, Paris sparkles to life, and you’ll glide past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Musée d’Orsay, each illuminated against the night sky—a storybook backdrop for the holiday.  

Panoramic windows, candlelit tables, and gentle live music create a warm, romantic atmosphere, perfect for savoring the breathtaking Parisian skyline in all its glittering glory. Toast to your adventures, snap unforgettable photos, and let the sparkling Seine set the scene for a Thanksgiving finale that’s both magical and timeless. 

 

Whether you crave a classic feast, a Parisian twist, or simple gratitude for the adventure, Thanksgiving in Paris is delicious, festive and entirely your own. Bon appétit and happy holidays! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Paris Passes or Things to Do Near Tour Montparnasse 

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The perfect weekend in Paris

A popular way to visit Paris is over a weekend short break. This is not because Paris is limited in its sights. On the contrary, its long list of landmarks and attractions makes the French capital one of the most recognizable cities in the world. So why opt for a weekend in Paris? For all its heritage and architectural prowess, Paris is a city that is constantly evolving. Never the same twice, a short city break gives you the option to return again and again, revisiting favorite haunts and discovering what has changed in the intervening months or years. At the same time, a two or three day trip to Paris will give you the perfect dose of the city’s magic and romance, from its museum collections to its nightlife. How to plan for your weekend in Paris To get the most out of your weekend of wonder, don’t forget the following helpful tips: Most museums in Paris are closed on Mondays, making it a good day for heading home. 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Ian Packham
Sun sets behind Notre Dame Cathedral
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Is Paris in May a good idea?

Paris is always a good idea. But Paris in May could well be the good idea to end all good ideas. Offering perfect sightseeing weather – sunny skies, almost no rain and very little humidity – Paris in May is a joy to behold. Temperatures which seem to rise by the day trigger a wealth of spring blooms alongside a sense of good cheer that even the surliest of Parisians can’t fail to get caught up in. Weather aside, Paris in May is able to boast a busy calendar of events and lengthening daylight hours in which to enjoy them to their max. Whilst the start of the city’s high season, there’s nowhere near the number of visitors as in July and August. The result? A happy balance between T-shirt wearing weather and entrance line lengths – which can of course be avoided by exploring with Go City! When in Paris... Paris has no fewer than four public holidays scheduled for May: Labor Day (May 1), World War II Victory Day (May 8), Ascension Day (40 days after Easter) and Whit Monday (or Pentecost, 50 days after Easter). Expect some shops and restaurants to be firmly closed for each. It’s best to check in advance though, with the Louvre’s mighty galleries closed on May 1 but open the rest of the month. Other museums may have reduced hours. What does this mean for anyone visiting Paris in May? It means the chance to see the city from the eyes of its residents. Many love nothing more than using their free days to head to the banks of the River Seine or one of the city’s multitude of green spaces. Spots on the Place du Vert Galant at the tip of Notre Dame Cathedral’s Île de la Cité are fiercely fought over because of its views across to the Louvre and the 18th-Century Hôtel de la Monnaie. But there’s no shortage of other potential picnic locations in a city with over 400 parks. 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Ian Packham
A woman admires the rooftop view of the Eiffel Tower
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Things to do in Paris in June

As summer reaches the French capital, Paris seems to emit a sigh of satisfaction. World famous landmarks like Montmartre’s Sacré-Coeur Basilica gleam in the early summer sun. Restaurant terraces are fiercely fought over, and the city’s parks and gardens take on a light carpeting of picnicking friends and couples. But if that isn’t enough incentive to head to Paris in June, there’s also plenty to keep you entertained. As well as the museums and galleries you can visit at any time of year, there are a wealth of one-of-a-kind events. The French Open tennis tournament and pride celebrations are just two. All of which begs the question, where do you even begin in Paris in June? What to do on your first day in Paris in June Why not start as you mean to go on? You’re on vacation after all! Get your first view of Paris’s glorious array of landmark attractions by gliding past them from the water. In just 60 minutes, River Seine cruises cover hundreds of years of history. Sailing through an area so important it’s one of only 1000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites globally, you’ll travel from the gothic gargoyles of Notre Dame Cathedral to the reasons behind the construction of the Eiffel Tower in 1889. For a bird’s eye view that includes Gustave Eiffel’s ‘Iron Lady’, there’s only one place to head, and that’s the Tour Montparnasse (Montparnasse Tower). The city’s only skyscraper, its 56th story is given over to a panoramic deck with 360° views, reached in less than 40 seconds with Europe’s fastest elevator. Outdoor terraces aren’t difficult to find at lower levels, although the very best see their tables fill up quickly each lunchtime and at the end of the working day. Frankly, it’s no wonder given the warm early evening air and cityscapes people literally travel thousands of miles to witness for themselves. Go al fresco Whilst craft beers are making increasing inroads with trend-conscious Parisians, for the most part it’s wine that remains the tipple of choice. It’s not uncommon to see residents enjoying a glass of red or white wine over a lazy lunch. But for that extra special element of holiday cheer it’s tough to beat the offerings of restaurant Au Cadet de Gascogne. Take their menu’s Champagne Gaumond option and you can enjoy a glass of bubbly and a smattering of French pastries in Place du Tertre in the heart of Montmartre. It's the streets of Paris’s ‘golden triangle’ – an unofficial district formed by the Champs-Elysées, Avenue George V and Avenue Montaigne – that takes the crown for many seeking out Paris’s legendary style. The end of June sees even its luxury brands slashing prices in the summer sales. Bask in Paris’s open spaces Lining the Seine’s rive droite (right bank) on the city’s western extremity is the immense Bois de Boulogne. Gifted to the people of the city by Napoleon III, it’s one of the city’s biggest parks. Amongst its over 2000 acres are gardens, greenhouses and even a zoo. However, in Paris in June attention turns to the southern side of the park, and Roland Garros, home to the French Open tennis championship. The year’s premier clay court competition, it’s possible to encourage on the year’s favorites and underdogs with a ground pass, giving access to practice courts and big screen displays. It’s the silver screen which features most prominently during June’s Champs-Élysées Film Festival. Movie theatres along arguably France’s most famous thoroughfare début a mix of American independent and French cinema. The most colorful event of the year – Paris Pride – is also a stalwart of Paris in June. Also known as the Marche des Fiertés LGBT, this parade sets off from the Tour Montparnasse and ends on the opposite bank of the Seine at the Place de la Bastille. Here the good-natured crowds disperse amidst the streets of La Marais – the city’s de facto LGBTQ+ district. Absorb a little culture Should you miss Pride, you can instead wander the sun-filled streets of the fifth arrondissement with a guide-led Latin Quarter selfie tour. One of the most picturesque areas of the city – and that’s saying something – you’ll be able to grab Instagrammable images at the Panthéon and Shakespeare and Company – perhaps the world’s most famous bookshop. Home to a number of family-friendly museums, there are some collections that just shouldn’t be missed from a June Paris itinerary. It’s the Louvre that grabs most of the headlines, but it’s the Musée d’Orsay that contains some of French art's most celebrated works, from Cézanne to Toulouse-Lautrec. American visitors – and Mr. Bean fans – should keep a look out for Arrangement in Grey and Black, better known as Whistler’s Mother. On the outskirts of Paris, June also sees theme park Parc Asterix open up for its lively summer season. A blend of adrenaline-inducing rollercoasters and child-friendly rides, this rival to Disneyland Paris has been celebrating the comic book antics of Asterix the Gaul since 1989. Celebrate summer in style Keen to not let a single annual event pass without celebration, the summer solstice on June 21 is marked with the Fête de la Musique. Public spaces become stages for incredible amateur and professional musical talent, with few visitors able to resist the allure of the beat. Ideally suited to fitting into a tight schedule of things to do in Paris in June is the La Défense Jazz Festival. Concerts usually take place over lunchtime and then again in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to admire the area’s other delights, including the views from the Grande Arche. Combining rock music with concerns for the environment, the We Love Green festival takes place in the Bois de Vincennes at around the same time. Lasting just three days, this is one of Paris’s top festivals, featuring huge names in rock. As a result, tickets sell out long before summer kicks off. Making the most of your vacation budget With so much to do in Paris in June, how do you keep a tight rein on your vacation budget? One way is to uncover the glories of the French capital with Go City. Our pre-pay passes have been designed with discounts to major Paris attractions in mind, without taking away the flexibility you value as a traveler!
Ian Packham

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