Hi. I am traveling alone through Europe for my first time. During my trip I will be spending 8-9 days in Amsterdam/Harlaam and Bruges and will be arriving in Paris on either the 31st of March or the 1st of April 2010. I just want to know whether or not to stay in Paris during Easter or if you can give me ideas as alternatives to staying there(stay longer in the Netherlands...go to luxembourg?)I am open to anything…Or if I should just stay in Paris...And if I do what sights would be accessible during this time or what alternative activities I should look into.
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
575 posts
Erica, I can't speak specifically to Paris, but I can tell you that a few years ago I was in Lyons on Easter. There was definitely a festive atmosphere, but tourist sites, restaurants, public transit, etc. were open. I was surprised that Lyon's big market was open and crowded Easter morning. I recall that some things closed on Easter Monday.
Posted by
Grapevine, TX, USA
875 posts
We will also be in Paris during Easter....I have been told by someone who lives in Paris that Good Friday is just a regular workday in Paris. Easter is certainly celebrated, and the Monday following Easter is usually treated like an extended holiday, with most workers having the day off.
I'm sure some cafes/restaurants will be closed, but Paris has thousands, so don't expect it to be a problem. However, if you plan to attend mass at Notre Dame on Easter -- that might not be a great idea.
I'd say go for it or do your trip in reverse if possible and you're really worried about it.
Posted by
Moose Jaw, SK, Canada
149 posts
I was in Paris on Easter weekend 2009. All the tourist sights were open and absolutely packed with people. If you don't mind crowds and waiting in lines, then go for it. Paris is lovely in the spring.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
Most major European tourist destinations see a large uptick in visitors over the Easter holiday. You'll have plenty to do!
Posted by
Lebanon
711 posts
Paris is great.. anytime. At Easter they have wonderful Easter chocolate eggs and other Easter type chocolates.We stay in the Rue Cler area and on Sunday morning the Charcouteries often have out a big buffet on the street and you can buy your lunch and have a picnic. This is only in the morning on Sundays. Are you only staying a day or two? Paris needs more time. What a wonderful city. if you are going to be there the day before Easter... go to the outdoor markets.. We love the President Wilson outdoor Market. The day before Easter they have the most marvelous flower bouquets and other wonderful things. It is on the Avenue President Wilson behind the Trocadero.PM me for other ideas.
Posted by
OP
Vancouver, B.C, Canada
2 posts
Thank you very much for all your messages!!! I will be staying in Paris from the 1st to the 10th...so I will check out the sights that are open and if the crowds get to be to much then I will have to find alternative activities and then do the usual museums during the week. If I am staying in a hostel in Paris during this time how early in advance should I reserve my bed? Thank you Jane for all the market suggestions, I will definately be checking those out.
Posted by
Ann Arbor, MI, United States
9 posts
I've been in Paris over Easter and it was lovely--Notre Dame wil be very festive, there are easter markets and a lot of things going on in the streets. Easter Sunday is probably the only day you won't be able to get into museums, etc, but the street life should more than make up for it.