If you’re fortunate enough to be in Paris for Easter, plan carefully and celebrate in style. This primarily Catholic city offers everything for a traditional celebration: delicious chocolate confections, some of the most beautiful churches in Europe, and luxurious settings for brunch. Plus, Easter Monday is an official holiday in France, meaning the city slows down just a little, giving you the perfect excuse to immerse yourself in the relaxed yet vibrant holiday atmosphere.
Indulge in Parisian Easter Chocolates
One of the joys of Easter in Paris is the chance to indulge in world-class chocolate. The city’s patisseries and chocolatiers go all out to create exquisite Easter treats. Walk down any charming Parisian street and you’ll find elaborate displays of chocolate eggs, bunnies, and even intricate chocolate sculptures, all designed to tantalize your taste buds and delight your senses. Renowned chocolatiers like Pierre Hermé, Jean-Paul Hévin, and La Maison du Chocolat transform their shops into Easter wonderlands, offering a wide array of chocolate masterpieces perfect for gifting or savoring yourself. For the full experience, head to the Chocolatier’s Easter Egg Hunt at Le Bon Marché, where you can try your luck finding hidden chocolate treasures among the luxurious department store’s seasonal displays.
Attend a Traditional Easter Mass
For a truly spiritual Easter experience, attending mass at one of Paris’s awe-inspiring churches is an absolute must. Notre-Dame Cathedral, though currently under restoration, is still a focal point for Easter services. However, there are many other magnificent churches throughout the city where you can experience the grandeur of Easter mass. Sainte-Chapelle, with its soaring stained-glass windows, offers an especially breathtaking atmosphere for reflection and celebration. La Madeleine and Saint-Sulpice are also excellent choices, offering traditional Catholic services that celebrate the resurrection of Christ with Gregorian chants, bells, and beautiful music.
Many of the churches also hold special concerts or choir performances during the Easter period, so check the schedules ahead of time to catch a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re religious or simply drawn to the beauty of these iconic places of worship, Easter Mass in Paris is an extraordinary event.
Easter Brunch Parisian Style
Paris is famous for its brunch scene, and Easter Sunday is the perfect occasion to indulge in a leisurely, luxurious brunch. From charming cafés to opulent hotels, Paris offers a wide range of settings for a memorable Easter meal. Many of the city’s renowned spots put together special Easter brunch menus with seasonal delicacies, including fresh pastries, eggs, roasted meats, and, of course, plenty of champagne.
For a truly elegant experience, head to Le Meurice or Le Ritz Paris, where you can enjoy a lavish brunch buffet in a sumptuous setting. Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is another great option for a more casual but equally delicious brunch experience, with a menu that highlights French classics. If you prefer something sweet, don’t miss Ladurée, a quintessential Parisian salon that serves a delightful mix of pastries, croissants, and decadent French toast.
For something unique, you could also head to Musée d’Orsay, which often hosts Easter-themed dining events in its stunning restaurant, allowing you to savor fine French cuisine while surrounded by art and history. No matter where you go, a Parisian Easter brunch is sure to be a treat for the senses.
Easter Monday: A Day of Rest and Leisure
In France, Easter Monday is an official holiday, which means the city slows down and many Parisians take the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day with family and friends. While some businesses may be closed, many of the city’s parks, museums, and restaurants remain open, offering the perfect chance to explore at a more leisurely pace. You might choose to visit Musée d’Orsay or Musée Rodin, both of which are less crowded than usual on Easter Monday, allowing you to explore the art in peace. Alternatively, take a boat cruise along the Seine, enjoying Paris from the water as you pass by iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Pont Alexandre III.
Easter in Paris is a celebration of both the city’s religious traditions and its unparalleled luxury and style. Whether you’re indulging in decadent chocolates, attending an Easter mass, enjoying a fabulous brunch, or simply relaxing in the beauty of the city’s gardens, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this special holiday. So, if you find yourself in Paris for Easter, take the time to immerse yourself in all the joy, elegance, and charm the city has to offer.
Joyeuses Paques!
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