If you're planning on spending Christmas in L'hexagone, you're going to need to know the best places for ice skating in France to have a truly festive experience. In this blog, we'll guide you through the eight best places to go ice skating in France for a Christmas experience that will leave you feeling like you've stepped into a winter wonderland.

The 8 Best Places for Ice Skating in France

1. Champs-Élysées Ice Rink, Paris

Dates: Mid-December to Early January

What better place to start our festive journey than in the City of Light? The Champs-Élysées Ice Rink transforms one of the world's most famous avenues into a twinkling ice paradise. After your skate, explore the enchanting Christmas markets nearby and warm up with some hot mulled wine or a delicious crepe.

2. La Grande Arche Ice Rink, La Défense

Dates: Late November to Early January
la defense christmas lights next to the ice rink one of the best places to go ice skating in france
For a unique experience at a Paris ice rink, head to La Défense and glide under the impressive La Grande Arche. The rink here offers breathtaking views of the cityscape. When you're done, indulge in some retail therapy at the nearby Les Quatre Temps shopping centre.

3. Montmartre Ice Rink, Paris

Dates: Early December to Early January
snowfalls in montmartre paris a christmas
Get a taste of a traditional Parisian Christmas at Montmartre Ice Rink. Nestled in the charming district of Montmartre, this rink boasts a picturesque setting. Don't forget to visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy a hot chocolate at a nearby café.

4. The AccorHotels Arena Ice Rink, Paris

Dates: September to February
Located in Paris, La Patinoire de l'AccorHotels Arena welcomes you. As one of the biggest and best ice rinks in Paris, it has a surface area of 1,500 m² and seating for 400 in the stands making it ideal for those who love snow sports like:

  • Figure skating
  • Ice hockey
  • Skeleton
  • Curling

But also for the young and old who just want to have a fun afternoon on the ice. You can also watch regular ice skating musicals! Skates cost as low as €3.50 to rent and you can also rent additional safety gear and helmets so that you and the gang feel safe and secure on the ice.

5. Tuileries Ice Rink, Paris

Dates: November 18, 2023 to January 7, 2024.
ice skating rink in paris
As the last of our ice rinks in Paris, the ice rink in the Jardin des Tuileries is surely one of the most scenic. Located in the 1st Paris arrondissement right next to the infamous Place de la Concorde, you will find separate sections for children and for adults.

6. Strasbourg Christmas Market Ice Rink

Dates: Late November to Late December
strasbourg at christmas next to one of the best ice skating rinks in france
Venture to Strasbourg, often called the "Capital of Christmas." Here, you can skate beneath the stunning Cathedral of Notre-Dame and explore the oldest and most famous Christmas market in France. Sample local delicacies and shop for unique gifts.

7. Jean-Regis Ice Rink, Annecy

ice skating with friends
You know our love for Annecy? We have actually written an article specially dedicated to the charming town of Annecy. Take advantage of your stay in this charming French town and discover the Annecy ice rink. It offers public sessions, themed evenings during school holidays and even a bar restaurant to quench your thirst after skating. There's even free entry for children under 5!

8. Ice Skate in the Shadow of Mont Blanc, Chamonix

Dates: Late December to Early January
chamonix at christmas has one of the best places for ice skating in france
For a unique mountain experience, head to Chamonix and glide along the Richard Bozon Outdoor Ice Rink. This sports centre opens their outdoor ice rink every winter but watch out as it can close due to snowy conditions. Ice skating in France with the breathtaking backdrop of Mont Blanc is a memory you won't forget. Afterward, explore the charming alpine town and take in the snowy scenery in this unbeatable Christmas destination.

Gift the Magic of Ice Skating in France with a Travel Gift Voucher

After you've discovered the magic of ice skating in France during the Christmas season, why not share the joy with your loved ones? Flightgift offers travel gift vouchers that are the perfect travel gift for any occasion. Whether it's a surprise getaway for a special someone or a chance to explore these enchanting ice rinks in France for yourself, our travel gift vouchers have you covered.

Not only can you personalise these flight gift vouchers with a photo and message but you can choose from 3 convenient delivery options to ensure you can get your travel gift voucher to your loved one in time for Christmas, no matter where they are in the world. Send our travel gift vouchers in the post for free thanks to our free worldwide shipping, print it at home in the form of a PDF travel gift card or email it directly to your recipient. If you know someone that gets a kick out of exploring the world, our flight vouchers are the best Christmas gift for them.

Don't wait – start planning your winter adventure today and make this Christmas one to remember. Give the gift of travel with our airline vouchers, and let the festive spirit of ice skating in France take you on an unforgettable journey. Prolong your Christmas holiday in France by spending the New Year there too. If you've already conquered the ice rinks in France, why not head over to the UK and glide over the iconic ice rinks there?