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The Magic of Christmas: Savory Delights And Holiday Traditions On A Rhine River Cruise

• Savor the magic of Christmas
• Make Alsatian Christmas cookies
• Explore Christmas markets

Christmas on the Romantic Rhine

• Christmas Markets in Strasbourg
• Tour museums in Rüdesheim
• Discover the history of Mainz

Delightful Christmas Markets in the Neckar Valley

• Explore romantic city of Heidelberg
• See whimsical Christmas Market
• Tour in historic Speyer
• Stroll through Eberbach

Rhineland And Dutch Christmas

• Experience the magic of Christmas
• Explore romantic Rhine Valley
• Tour the city of Cologne

Christmastime in Alsace and Germany

• Experience the Black Forest
• Explore Christmas market in Europe
• Visit Fascinating Heidelberg Castle
• Tour Strasbourg Cathedral

Rhine Christmas Markets

• Enjoy Amsterdam’s canals
• Visit Cologne
• Discover Koblenz
• Stroll through Strasbourg

Christmas on the Rhine

• Discover Basel
• Explore Breisach
• Experience Strasbourg, France
• Explore Rüdesheim, Germany

Rhine Holiday Markets

• Visit Basel’s Christmas Market.
• Tour to Doktorenhof vinegar estate
• Wander through Mainz’s Old Town
• Walk through the Cologne Old Town

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

• Admire Amsterdam's famous canals
• Bike along Rüdesheim
• Visit Strasbourg’s Christmas Market
• Enjoy Europe's Christmas markets
• Explore cozy Christmas markets
• Visit historic Heidelberg Castle
• Tour the Strasbourg Cathedral
• Cruise through Amsterdam
• Tour Cologne, Germany
• Visit Rüdesheim
• Explore Strasbourg, France

Musical New Year in the Gulf of Bothnia

• Explore Kemi's snow castle
• Enjoy the Santa Claus Village
• Discover Gammelstad's church-town
• Visit Rauma's UNESCO old town
• Visit Cologne Cathedral
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Tours Christmas Market Guide 2023 (Travel Tips & Events)

Last Updated on 7th August 2023 by Antoine

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Nestled in the heart of France’s Loire Valley, Tours is a medieval city characterised by its Gothic cathedral, timber-framed homes, and narrow cobbled lanes. Visitors who frequent the ancient settlement during the winter will soon discover the Tours Christmas Market , which takes place on an annual basis. Here’s how to visit the Marché de Noël de Tours .

Tours Christmas Market Dates 2023: 24th November to 26th December

Tours is a historic and medieval city in the heart of the Loire Valley, which is fondly referred to as the ‘ Garden of France ‘ on account of its lush green landscape. The city is also the gateway to the thousand-plus Châteaux.

One of the most iconic places to enjoy Christmas in Tours is in Place Jean Jaurès, where there is a beautiful (and spectacularly large) Christmas tree. In 2020, there was no Christmas tree in front of the Hôtel de Ville. The reason given was that ‘a suitable tree could not be found’ that met the ‘town hall’s criteria’.

One of the most fun activities to take place during the Tours Christmas Market is the ‘election’ of the most beautiful Christmas chalet. Other highlights of Christmas in Tours include a ferris wheel and ice skating.

Boulevard Heurteloup

Place de la résistance, place de la cathédrale, place anatole france, how to visit the christmas market at tours, where to stay in tours, what to wear when exploring europe, christmas market locations in tours.

Prior to 2020, there was only one giant Christmas Market in Tours, which took place between the station and town hall. Instead, since 2021 the Christmas Markets of Tours has taken place in smaller forms in three iconic locations across the city.

Each area will be decked from head to toe with various sets of Christmas decorations and illuminations. As always, I personally recommend visiting the markets at night as this will allow you to enjoy the Christmas lights at their best.

The historic Heurteloup will host one of the smaller Christmas Market locations in Tours. The daily event will run seven days a week and sees around twenty stalls selling everything from Christmas Market Food to unique gifts including handmade jewellery and artisanal food products. Close by, there’s a traditional merry go round.

One of the more popular Christmas Market locations in Tour is on the Place de la Résistance. This location of the city sees a number of Christmas chalets. There is also a carousel for children in the shape of a Christmas tree.

2021 saw a brand new location for the Tours Christmas Markets on the Parvis of the grand Gothic cathedral itself. This market no longer exists, it used to feature ‘made in France’ artisans selling their wares such as jewellery and ceramics, which make for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Yet another iconic Tours location where you can enjoy a traditional Christmas Market with Bavarian style chalets and beautiful decorations is on Place Anatole France. This is also where a small ice skating rink can be located, as well as a large Ferris Wheel and a carrousel.

The Christmas Markets will be open from Friday the 24th November to Tuesday the 26th of December. They are themselves free to visit. With this being said, be sure to bring cash as not every vendor accepts card payments (and those that do often have a minimum spend).

Like most Christmas Markets in France, you’ll have to pay a deposit in order to get a cup for any hot drinks that you consume. Unlike in the German Christmas Markets, Christmas Market cups are plastic cups as opposed to ceramic mugs. You need only return your cup to recuperate your deposit at the end of your visit. Alternatively, you can keep your cup as a fun Christmas Market souvenir.

Thanks to its fairly large size and popularity, there are a number of different places to stay in Tours to suit almost any budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay in Tours based on web-reviews and location:

Budget: One of the most affordable and yet cosy places to stay in Tours is The People. This chic hostel offers private rooms as well as mixed-gender and female-only dorms. There’s a bar onsite with a terrace. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: Those in search of an affordable luxury option when it comes to staying in Tours can check out this cosy little hotel. Amenities include air conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fairly central location. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury: For the ultimate luxury experience during your time in Tours, consider booking yourself a stay at this four-star hotel. Highlights include a pool and spa, as well as a fitness centre. Check prices and availability here.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Enjoyed how to visit the Tours Christmas Market in the Loire Valley? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, Paris, pizza, and history, though not necessarily in that order. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she's not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming her weight in sweet food. Currently based in Paris after studies in London, she's spent most of her life living in the beautiful Devonian countryside in South West England!

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Variety of christmas markets tours options, incredible destinations, years of travel experience, christmas markets group packages, christmas market travel options, christmas market tours 2024 & 2025 discount 50%.

Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

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The Best Christmas Market Tours in France

Looking for the best tour through France's Christmas markets? We have carefully curated a selection of Christmas market tours in France to make sure that you have an unforgettable escape filled with adventure, cherished traditions, and heartwarming activities. Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season as you wander through charming marketplaces, alive with joyful celebrations, all while joining a tour that takes care of the planning and organizing for you.

It would be hard to visit all of the destinations hosting markets in France, as there are so many. Strasbourg is home to the Christkindelsmarik , the oldest Christmas Market in Europe, and it sprawls through many of the winding streets and alleyways of the city. Reims also has a terrific market worth visiting, as it is one of the largest in northern France. You'll find food, drinks, gifts, ice skating, and Santa's Grotto. Colmar is another town hosting five different markets which all blend together into one large festive atmosphere. Other popular towns with markets include Lille, Dijon, Sarlat, Annecy, Metz, Mulhouse, and others.

• Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET 4 Days, $1193.00
• Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MODIGLIANI 4 Days, $1195.00
• Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - MONA LISA 5 Days, $1324.00

What are Christmas market tours like in France?

Here are the important factors:

• 10 trip options analyzed
• $296 average price per day (USD)
• 4 to 6 days in length
• 4.2 of 5 average rating
• 162 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of Christmas market tours in France, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 162 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 5 days, with tours ranging from 4 to 6 days long. With our thorough analysis of 10 Christmas market tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that France has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Christmas Market Tours in France

Christmas on the romantic rhine - monet.

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage, visiting France and Germany, that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 4 days, this jouney will have 160 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers of all ages. Expertly organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $298 per day.

• River Cruise

Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MODIGLIANI

This memorable trip, visiting France and Germany, is offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $299 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 5 destinations, including Rudesheim am Rhein, Boppard, and Mainz. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Strasbourg. The maximum group size is 160 people, welcoming travelers of all ages.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - MONA LISA

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for Christmas market tours.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, that has been awarded a 4 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 5 days, this voyage offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 176 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers of all ages. This itinerary covers 5 captivating destinations, with stops in Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms, among others. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Strasbourg. Brought to you by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - BOHEME

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 5 unforgettable days, visiting France and Germany. It ensures an intimate group setting with 160 participants at most. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 4 destinations, featuring Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. Strasbourg kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. CroisiEurope River Cruises , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers of all ages. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise)

This fantastic trip has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, visiting France and Germany. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Strasbourg. Lasting 5 days, the maximum group size is 160 people, and it's good for travelers of all ages. Organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is a great deal because it's only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - DOUCE FRANCE

With a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, is the perfect choice. Traverse through 4 enchanting destinations, with Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein among the must-see stops along the route. Strasbourg will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 5 days, the journey accommodates 160 individuals, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this remarkable journey is priced at just $300 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - GERARD SCHMITTER

This exceptional trip offering by CroisiEurope River Cruises has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 5-day trip, visiting France and Germany, you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip visits 4 destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein along the way. Your adventure starts and ends in Strasbourg. With a group size of 160 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $300 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - SYMPHONIE

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting France and Germany. Experience a trip that takes you to 4 remarkable destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. Strasbourg will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 5 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 160 participants, and it's great for travelers of all ages. Brought to you by the renowned CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $300 per day - an unbeatable value.

Delightful Christmas Markets in the Neckar Valley

This 5-day voyage, visiting France and Germany, is ideal for travelers of all ages. And priced at only $325 per day, it's a great value, too. Explore 6 incredible locations on this trip, including Eberbach, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Mannheim, and Heidelberg. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Strasbourg. It's offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Christmas on the Loire

Priced at just $338 per day, this terrific 6-day journey is ideal for travelers of all ages. Discover a journey that spans 7 destinations, with notable stops in Ancenis, Angers, Bouchemaine, and Azay-le-Rideau. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Nantes. Organized by the reputable CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is one of the best tours on this list.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France , The Best Historical Tours in France , The Best 10-Day Tours in France , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France , The Best 3-Day Tours in France , The Best 2-Week Tours in France , The Best River Cruises in France , The Best Bicycle Tours in France , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in France , The Best Coach Bus Tours in France , The Best Adventure Tours to France , The Best Eco Tours in France , The Best Sightseeing Tours in France , The Best Cultural Tours in France , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France , The Best Music Tours in France , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France , The Best Walking Tours in France , The Best Tours Under $1000 in France , The Best Luxury Tours to France , The Best Budget Tours to France , The Best Tours for Seniors to France , The Best Contiki Tours to France , or The Best G Adventures Tours to France for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lyon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bordeaux , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Arles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Avignon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chamonix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Blois , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Marseille , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tours , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dijon , The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris , The Best 10-Day Tours from Arles , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nice , The Best 10-Day Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris , The Best 2-Week Tours from Arles , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Chamonix for more package tour options.

How much do Christmas Market Tours in France cost?

After analyzing 10 Christmas market tours in France, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $296 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for Christmas market tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in France .

And for more information on France, see France Travel Costs and France Hotel Costs .

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• Paris Christmas Markets

Where to Find the Best Marchés de Noël

Christmas in Paris

Christmas markets, best paris christmas markets 2024.

A visit to a Paris Christmas Market gives you the fastest way to feel the holiday spirit when visiting the City of Light during the short days of November and December.

With sparkling lights, Christmas trees full of bright decorations, and even occasional visits from Saint Nicholas - or Père Noël , as Parisian children call him - these festive street markets filled with Swiss-style wooden chalets bring a tradition begun in the Middle Ages in Alsace and Germany to the French capital.

See the glowing lights of holiday markets and decorations on an open-top Christmas bus tour of Paris

To get the fullest enjoyment from these winter markets, copy the Parisians:  sip hot mulled wine (vin chaud) , munch on roasted chestnuts , and sample delicious sausages, cheese and chocolates while you shop.

The beautiful displays of arts and crafts, festive Christmas decorations, regional food specialties, fine wines, and other gifts will dazzle you until well into the night.

During a typical year, about 15-20 Paris Christmas Markets appear across the city, joined by additional "pop-up" markets lasting just a day, a weekend, or even a week or two. 

And that's not counting the small neighborhood holiday markets with perhaps a dozen or fewer chalets offering specialty foods and small gifts that appear on a seemingly ad hoc basis - sometimes returning to the same location year after year, but sometimes shifting to new locations.

Traditionally, these picturesque markets span the Advent season beginning four Sundays before Christmas.   This year, look for opening dates from mid-November to mid-December.   For exact dates, check our December events article.

Although a few markets stay in place for only a week or two, most remain open through Christmas Eve and a couple continue through early January. 

Here are Paris Discovery Guide's recommendations for 9 of the biggest, best, & most unique Paris Christmas Markets, plus locations where you can usually find smaller, specialty, and pop-up holiday market locations throughout the city. 

Top photo:  Paris Christmas Market across from Notre Dame Cathedral, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

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Guide to the 9 Biggest, Best, & Most Spectacular Paris Christmas Markets 2024

1.  the magic of christmas:  la magie de noël at tuileries garden christmas market.

La Magie de Noël ("The Magic of Christmas") in Tuileries Garden next to the Louvre grew out of the former Champs-Élysées Christmas Market and is huge - by far the biggest Marché de Noël within Paris, stretching along the garden's entire north edge from Rue des Pyramides to Place de la Concord. 

Half Christmas-themed carnival, half Christmas market, the Tuileries Christmas Market is also the most popular Christmas Market within Paris, attracting over 13 million visitors each holiday season.

What's the theme at Jardin des Tuileries Christmas carnival/market?  Fun, entertainment, shopping, food, and beverages ranging from hot chocolate to Champagne. 

In particular, the large number of Christmas-themed amusement rides and games here make this market stand out from other more sedate Paris Christmas markets with their emphasis on food and gifts (although the Tuileries market excels in those areas too).

Look for an enormous ferris wheel, more than a dozen other carnival rides such as bumper cars and "fun house" amusements, an ice skating rink including a separate section for young children, a Champagne bar, steaming copper vats of traditional onion soup, and hot mulled wine. 

In addition the 100+ Swiss-style chalets offer French-produced specialty food products, artisan crafts and gifts from around the world, glittering lights, numerous larger-than-life-sized plastic Santas and reindeer - and much more!

La Magie de Noël truly is magic.  Come experience it for yourself!

Find out more about La Magie de Noël Christmas Market at Tuileries Garden

Getting to Tuileries Christmas Market

• Admission:  Free, plus whatever you spend on rides, food, and gift items; like all Paris Christmas markets, this one offers many tempting things to purchase
• Location:  Tuileries Garden ( Jardin des Tuileries )
• Métro:  Concorde, Tuileries
• Open:   Mid-November - early January
• More to Do Nearby:   Need to do more holiday shopping?   Exit Tuileries Garden, cross Rue de Rivoli, and walk up Rue de Castiglione to Place Vendome, or turn left or right on Rue Saint-Honoré and explore the chic designer boutiques.   Check out the brightly-lit stores in the underground shopping mall Carrousel du Louvre (enter near the Palais Royal/Musée du Louvre Metro station).  Or walk across Place de la Concorde to explore all the stores lining both sides of Champs-Élysées , where sparkling lighted trees dazzle along the famous avenue.  Turn onto nearby Avenue Montaigne and check out the designer showrooms.  If you continue walking down Avenue Montaigne toward Place de l'Alma, you'll soon see the spectacularly lit Eiffel Tower framed by the avenue's ethereal white Christmas lights.

Special Christmas & New Year's Eve Cruises

2. paris notre-dame christmas market at square viviani.

Perhaps the most picturesque of the Paris Christmas Markets is the Marché de Noel Notre Dame, located across the Seine from the famous cathedral in Square Viviani on the Left Bank's Quai Montebello. 

With Notre Dame's soaring medieval towers (plus cranes and scaffolding , due to the reconstruction efforts after the tragic 2018 fire) as a backdrop, this cheerful market offers the usual vin chaud (hot mulled wine) and roasted chestnuts. 

Occasional appearances by musicians add to the festivities.  The vibe here is always elegant, relaxed, and focused on the holiday spirit. 

However, the Marché de Noel's specialties are high-quality arts and artisan crafts made in France. 

You can usually find an especially nice selection of gift-worthy clothing and accessories here, as well as fancy gourmet foods including foie gras, many different kinds of sausages, and expansive arrays of fine cheeses.

In particular, look for cashmere and mohair scarves, sweaters, and gloves, jewelry made from silver and beautiful stones, handmade wooden toys, ceramics, candles, glass objects, and more.

For the little ones, Santa makes frequent appearances - sometimes with a glass of vin chaud in hand.

Getting to the Marché de Noel Notre Dame:

• Location:  Square René-Viviani on Quai Montebello, at the edge of the Latin Quarter in the 5th Arrondissement
• Métro:  Saint Michel, Maubert-Mutualité
• RER:   B and C, Saint-Michel - Notre-Dame
• Open:   Mid-December until (usually) Christmas Eve or later
• More to Do Nearby:   Visit the lovely medieval church next door, Église Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, which dates back to 1160.  Or cross the bridge and check out the renovations underway at Notre-Dame.  For books, café fare, and perhaps some conversation, stop by Shakespeare & Company, an English-language haven adjacent to Square Viviani at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie

More places to see dazzling Paris holiday lights & decorations

3.  Montmartre Christmas Market at Place des Abbesses (near Sacre Coeur)

Located next to the Place des Abbesses Metro station on one of the most photo-worthy areas in Montmartre, the Place des Abbesses market is small (about 15-20 chalets in total) but charming, and features local artisans, designers, and creators.  A large decorated Christmas tree and occasional visits from Santa to welcome you.

Fortify yourself with a cup of warm spiced wine and a small packet of hot roasted chestnuts, straight off the grill - look for Vin Chaud and Marrons Chaud signs, or just follow your nose.  

This market is also a good place to sample traditional fare, such as escargot, small plates of sauted mushrooms, and raclette.  You'll also find specialties to take back to your apartment, such as foie gras from Périgord, tapenades from Provence, and speciality cheeses.

Alternately, you can also join the crowd at the Champagne bar!

The Montmartre Christmas market is a good place to stock up on hand-knit scarves, Christmas markets, honey from Paris, one-of-a-kind fashion and jewelry, and children's toys. 

For kids, there's a brightly lighted carousel, and usually appearances by Père Noël on the weekends.

This is a fun market to visit if you want to get a taste of the Christmas markets but avoid the crowds filling the larger markets.  With the friendly neighborhood vibe, it can't be beat!

Coming here is also a great excuse to explore the winding hills of Montmartre and make your way to Sacré-Coeur , just a few blocks away, to enjoy the sweeping city vistas. 

• Location:  Next to the Abbesses Butte Montmartre Métro station in Montmartre, 18th Arrondissement
• Métro:  Abbesses Butte Montmartre
• Bus:  80, 95 (get off at Cimetière de Montmartre and walk a few blocks east on Rue Joseph de Maistre/Rue des Abbesses to the market)
• Open:   Late November - end of December
• More to Do Nearby:   Check out the "Wall of Love" ( le mur des je t'aime ) in Square Rictus next to the market while sipping a cup of hot mulled wine.  Explore Montmartre.  Go to dinner and a show at Moulin Rouge.  And of course visit the boutiques along Rue des Abbesses, one of the great market streets in Paris.

If you're heading back into central Paris after your visit, walk down pedestrian-only Rue des Martyrs and enjoy the holiday lights stretching across the street and all the Christmas and New Year specialty foods offered in the dozens of gourmet shops lining this famous market street.

Find out about top Montmartre hotels & apartments

Popular Paris Christmas Experiences

Get into the holiday spirit with these special "only in Paris" activities:

• Christmas Gourmet Tour of Saint-Germain-des-Pres - Enjoy a special 3-course lunch, live music, and magical views of famous sights and landmarks along the Seine River as you cruise by in a comfy glass-covered boat.  These holiday cruises always sell out - so book early to avoid disappointment!  Book now
• Moulin Rouge Dinner & Show - Enjoy a magical cabaret show by a troupe of 100 costumed performers paired with a delicious tradtional French dinner and Champagne.  Book now
• Paris Christmas Lights Tour - Snuggle under a warm blanket as an open-top bus takes you past the city's most brilliant Christmas lights as well as other famous illuminated Paris attractions - Arc de Triomphe, Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier), Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and more.  It's an unforgettable way to see Paris!  Book now
• Private Christmas Tour of Paris with a Ferris Wheel Ride - On this special tour, you'll see the most famous Paris holiday lights and decorations plus a few "insider's gems," enjoy a glass of mulled wine (or hot chocolate), and a ride on the giant Paris ferris wheel.  Includes hotel pick-up/drop-off.  Book now

4.  Paris Christmas Market at Hôtel de Ville

The spectacular Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market wins the prize (if there were one) as "most beautiful" thanks to the gorgeous light show across the building's neo-Renaissance facade. 

This year, the light show features golden "snowflakes" drifting from the building's peaks, while the rest of the building sports Olympics 2024 emblems and signs instead of the usual falling snowflakes dancing across a brilliant blue background.

The Hôtel de Ville Christmas Market offers an enchanting forest filled with evergreen trees decorated with silver ornaments and sparkling white lights, a few chalets offering "Made in France" gifts, and traditional market stalls offering offering hot mulled wine, raclette, freshly cooked crepes drizzled with Nutella, and the tantalizing smell of roasted chestnuts.

Although the assortment of free family-oriented activities varies a bit each year, you can always spot the brightly-lit traditional carousel on site. 

Other activities might include a "luge" for tubing, a vertical climbing wall, and even visits with Santa.

Look for about a dozen chalets featuring gift items made by French craftsmen or offering mouth-watering food and beverage favorites - crepes filled with nutella, raclette, onion soup, and of course, large copper vats of vin chaud (hot mulled wine.)

The light show, traditional Christmas music playing softly in the background, numerous sparkling lights, and tranquil ambiance makes this Christmas market especially charming at night.

• Location:  Rue de Rivoli, across from BHV Marais (52 Rue de Rivoli)
• Métros:  Hotel de Ville
• Open:   Late November - early January
• More to Do Nearby:   Cross over Rue de Rivoli and shop at BHV Marais department store, or continue farther into the Marais neighborhood and explore the many fantastic boutiques - you'll find some wonderful options along Rue des Francs Bourgeois.

Find out more about the Hotel de Ville Christmas Market

5.  Saint-Germain-des-Prés Christmas Market

Normally, this Christmas Market's 40 or so chalets line Boulevard St-Germain next to the famous St-Germain-des-Prés Church. 

This year, the number is reduced to about 20 due to construction around the plaza in front of the church - just part of Paris's numerous renovation projects ahead of next summer's Olympics.

This is one of the city's most appealing mid-sized markets, and specializes in luxury items, such as fine leather pocketbooks, lovely jewelry, French gastronomy products, and handcrafted items. 

This is a good place to buy scented candles, glass Christmas ornaments, leather-bound notebooks and bags made in France (or Italy, depending on the vendor), and exquisite gift-worthy chocolates filled with liquor.

Fortify yourself with the usual hot mulled wine and roasted chestnuts as you walk past mouth-watering displays of artisinal macarons, marrons glacés (candied chestnuts) from Southern France, caviar, smoked salmon, truffles, foie gras, and jewel-like jars of fruit jams. 

Fortunately, despite the reduced number of chalets, the quality of products remains the same.

You can also find a few vendors selling inexpensive practical items such as warm hats, scarves, gloves, and even umbrellas - handy if you realize you should have dressed in warmer layers, or if you get caught in a surprise rain shower (which seem to be more common than usual this year).

Find Christmas Market tours & other favorite Paris Christmas activities

You'll also find specialty wines and liquors from other regions of France.

And of course, after you've had your fill of shopping and great food and drink at the Saint-Germain Christmas market, check out the boutiques in nearby neighborhood streets, where canopies of sparkling holiday lights create a festive ambiance.

• Location:  Blvd Saint-Germain, next to Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 6th Arrondissement
• Métro:  Saint-Germain 
• Bus:  39, 63, 70, 86, 96
• Open:   Late November through early January
• More to Do Nearby:   Walk a few blocks to the Cluny Christmas Market, (next to the Cluny Museum at the Saint-Germain/Boulevard de Saint-Michel intersection) where you'll find around a half-dozen stalls offering delicious prepared regional French food to eat on the spot, plus perhaps another 15 or so offering gift items.  Spend an hour or two at the Cluny Museum (free entrance with a Paris Museum Pass ) - also known as the National Museum of the Middle Ages - and immerse yourself in medieval treasures including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, as well as the 3rd century Roman baths.
• Where to Stay Nearby:    Hotels & apartments near Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church in the 6th Arrondissement

More about things to see and do at Eglise Saint-Germain

More Fun Things to Do & See in Paris at Christmas

6.  la défense marché de noël - the biggest christmas market in the paris area.

The huge Christmas Market along the La Défense Esplanade boasts almost 180 chalets.  Even though this number is down from 350 in previous years due to the number of people who still haven't returned to their offices in this mostly business district, the La Defense Christmas Market continues to be the largest in the Paris region. 

The holiday decorations, lights, and displays next to it on the Esplanade are also fabulous.  The market here dates back to 1995 and welcomes about 1.5 million visitors during the holiday season.

The market's spectacular setting in this glittering business district make the 7-8 minute metro ride from the Étoile/Charles de Gaulle station well worth your time - plus you'll find a vast selection of gifts ranging from trinkets to high-quality jewelry and leather goods, and well-equipped kitchens and restaurants turning out steaming plates of delicious Alsatian fare and Spanish-style paella.

Look for lots of specialty items not seen in smaller markets - Santa costumes, stuffed animals, huge bins brimming over with clementines and other seasonal fruits, candies from the South of France, freshly baked gingerbread, antique books and fine paintings, and large pop-up stores filled with Christmas decorations.

One stall features many different varieties of exquisite nativity figures  at surprisingly affordable prices - you may be tempted to fill your suitcase!

Several stalls offer gorgeous finely-tooled leather goods from Morocco, while others have large selections of fashionable scarfs and coats, candies, and tins of herbal teas. 

You'll also see special regional hams and sausages, foie gras, cheeses, and special brandies and other liquors.

Kids will also find lots to do and see here, including multiple Santas who happily pose for photos. 

For the after-work crowd from the surrounding high-rise office towers, there's even a rotation of popular DJs on a number of evenings.

You can easily spend an entire evening at this market.  And definitely plan to have a meal and glass or two of mulled wine or spiced eggnog here - this is one of the best Paris Christmas markets for dining.

• Location:  Esplanade de la Défense
• Métro:  Grande Arche de la Défense 
• RER:   A (from Étoile Metro Station)
• Open:   About 5 weeks from late November - late December
• More to Do Nearby:   Arrive in daylight hours and check out the 69 sculptures and monuments along the Esplanade.  Ice skate around the rink (still to be confirmed for this year) on top of the Grande Arche, which along with the Arc de Triomphe at Étoile and the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel near the Louvre, forms the Historical Axis of Paris.  After you've explored the Christmas Market, check out the enormous Quatre Temps shopping mall next to the Esplanade.  Sports fans won't want to miss the gigantic Décathlon store on the other side.   During the evening, walk down the Esplanade toward Paris and enjoy the magical displays of Illuminations de Noel - Christmas lights.

Find out more about the La Defense Christmas Market

Check our December Events Calendar for exact Christmas Market dates, as they vary each year

7.  Eiffel Tower Christmas Market on Quai Branly

With Christmas trees, fake snow, and close-up views of the famous "Iron Lady," the Eiffel Tour Christmas Village gives you a magical experience you'll remember long after your visit.

This market specializes in delicious gourmet foods and local cuisine ready to be served on the spot.  Look for the Alsatian and Savoyard stands with their yummy regional specialties, and sip hot mulled wine as you shop. 

With about 35 chalets and usually a few food trucks, this is one of Paris's best mid-sized Christmas markets, and perhaps the most photo-worthy.

• Location:  Quai Branly, across from the foot of the Eiffel Tower (the exact location moves around a bit each year, so don't be surprised when it's not where you remember from previous years)
• Métro:  Pont de l'Alma, Bir Hakeim
• RER C: Champs de Mars or Pont de l'Alma
• Open:   Early December until just after New Year's Day
• More to Do Nearby:    Get tickets to the top of the Eiffel Tower for spectacular views of Paris!

8.  Alsatian Christmas Market at Gare de l'Est

Located in front of the Gare de l'Est train station in the 10th Arrondissement, this popular market - the oldest Alsatian Christmas Market outside of Alsace - takes place under a big tent during the first half of December (check December Events Calendar for exact dates).  Stock up on tasty Alsatian traditional food, with daily free tastings. 

What specialties should you look for?  The Alsace region in northeastern France shares a border with Germany and Switzerland, so look for regional foods with a strong German or Swiss influence.

The 15-20 Alsatian artisans offer charcuterie, Munster, Gruyere, and other German and Swiss cheeses, regional wines and brandies, jams, goose and duck foie gras, kougelhopf, brioche Männele, potato galettes, gingerbreads, sweet and savory tortes, candy, smoked pork, and sauerkraut - all your favorite flavors of Alsace without leaving Paris.

This is the perfect market for shopping for food gifts, holiday foods, and even a tasty on-the-spot snack.  Judging by the large numbers of shoppers filling up their shopping bags here, this is a favorite location for serious Parisian foodies.

• Location:  Next to Gare de l'Est train station, 10th arr
• Métro:  Gare de l'Est
• Open:   Usually about 17 days, starting in late November or early December
• More to Do Nearby:   Walk over to nearby Canal Saint-Martin and admire the holiday decorations along Quai de Valmy on the west side of the canal; pop into one of the many neighborhood cafes such as Chez Prune for a drink or meal.

9.  Bastille Christmas Market

The relatively new Bastille Christmas Market provides a bright spot of seasonal warmth at Place de la Bastille between the July Column commemorating the Revolution of 1830 and the Bastille Opera House.

Normally this rather barren swath of pavement gets used mostly for demonstrations, the occasional mountain of trash when sanitation workers go on strike, and random construction equipment in need of a place to park. 

So the Christmas Market not only provides holiday cheer, but also an alternate vision for how this space might be better used.

The Bastille Chrismas market features an enchanting forest of decorated and lighted evergreen and white bare-branched trees to soften the space (and incidentally highlight the beauty of the surrounding architecture), a festive carousel offering free rides to children, and an assortment of vendor stalls offering hot chocolate, mulled wine, snacks, and gift items.

With holiday musical classics playing softly in the background and occasional visits from Père Noël, this is a lovely, low-keyed market where you'll want to get a warm drink and stroll through the trees for a moment of relaxation.

• Location:  Place de la Bastille, 11th arr
• Métro:  Bastille (plus numerous bus lines have stops here)
• Open:   Early December until a day or two after Christmas
• Good to Know:   The Plaza has free public toilets - look for them on the west side close to Canal Saint-Martin
• More to Do Nearby:   Have lunch or dinner (make reservations in advance) at nearby Bofinger, one of Paris's beautiful classic brasseries; visit the adjacent Marché Bastille/Richard Lenoir, one of the city's best and biggest open-air markets (open Thursday and Sunday from 7am - early afternoon); enjoy an opera or ballet (you'll need to get tickets at least a week in advance) at the Bastille Opera House; go for a stroll along the elevated La Coulée Verte (Promenade Plantée) which you can access just beyond the Opera House where Rue de Lyon morphs into Avenue Daumesnil

10.  Saint-Eustache Les Halles Market

Although the twice-weekly Saint-Eustache Les Halles Market located between Saint Eustache Church and the Chatelet-Les Halles metro station, it begins to feel like one starting around mid-November.

All of the sparkling Christmas lights and decorations along the nearby Rue Montorgueil market street and the enormous decorated Christmas tree in the Canopée des Halles shopping center add to the holiday ambiance. 

Look for a couple of dozen chalets offering sausages, candy, Belgium waffles, and other seasonal specialties, plus vin chaud (hot mulled wine) and assortments of gift items. 

Quite honestly, if you want to visit Paris's best Christmas Markets, you should skip this one.  But if you're in the neighborhood, stop by - it's festive, fun, and filled with good things.

Under the Canopée, an enormous sparkling Christmas tree reminds you that more shopping and dining opportunies can be found among the shops inside the multi-storied complex.

• Location:  On the plaza between Saint Eustache church, the Chatelet-Les Halles, and the starting points of Rue Montmartre and Rue Montorgueil, 1st arrondissement
• Nearest métro :  Chatelet-Les Halles
• Open:   Thursday (12:30pm-8:30pm) and Sunday (7am-3pm) , year-round
• More to Do Nearby:   Shop in Forum des Halles (the below-ground shopping complex surrounding the metro/train station), visit adjacent Église Saint-Eustache, or explore market street Rue Montorgueil to the right (as you face it) of the church.  Hungry for more than just a snack?  Stop by Alain Ducasse's Champeaux restaurant in the Forum,  or any of the appealing cafes, creperies, bakaeries, and bistros along Rue Montorgueil.

What Is the Best Christmas Market in Paris?

In a city such as Paris with a wealth of wonderful and diverse Marches de Noël that may change from one year to the next, "best" is a difficult call to make - but here are some choices that (so far) hold true every year:

Best Paris Christmas Market for Fun:  The Magic of Christmas ( La Magie de Noël) at Tuileries Garden

More about the Tuileries Christmas Market 

Best Paris Christmas Market for Families:  Notre-Dame Christmas Market at Square Viviani  

Friendly Santas make this market special for children, and a relaxed vibe (perhaps thanks to the steaming copper vats of hot mulled wine) keeps everyone smiling. 

Views of nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral are magical, despite the scaffolding and cranes as damage from the 2019 fire continues to be fixwd.

Best Paris Christmas Market for Upscale Gifts:  Saint-Germain Christmas Market

This market features vendors with high-quality goods (check out the leather items) and regional specialty foods and wine to appeal to discerning residents and tourists in this upscale neighborhood. 

Best (& Biggest) Christmas Market for 1-Stop Shopping (& Food):  The La Défense Christmas Market

Located just a 7-8 minute metro ride outside of Paris, with its 150 stalls and the adjacent Quatre Temps shopping center and Décathlon sporting goods store offers just about everything you need for the holidays, including holiday decor and Christmas tree ornaments. 

Food offerings of freshly made paella, couscous, raclette, tartiflette, crepes, and Bavarian sausage and peppers mean you can also dine very well here.  In fact, if a "Best food at a Paris Christmas Market" award is ever given, the La Defense Market will win, hands down. 

More about the La Defense Christmas Market

Most Beautiful Paris Christmas Market:  Hotel de Ville Christmas Market 

Sparkling lights, a forest of Christmas trees, and white snowflakes falling at night across the dark blue façade of the ornate Paris City Hall (thanks to a magical light show) give a festive ambiance that capture the spirit of the holidays. 

This is usually the least-commercial of all the Paris markets - so come just for the pleasure of being there.

More about the Hotel de Ville Christmas Market

Best Paris Christmas Market for Experiencing its Friendly Neighborhood Vibe:  Place des Abbesses Christmas Market in Montmartre

Look for the perfect combination of holiday foods and beverages, nice gifts, beautiful surroundings, and friendly neighborhood shoppers. 

Frequent performances by local musicians make this market extra-special.

Best Paris Christmas Market for Its Iconic View:  Eiffel Tower Christmas Village 

With lots of Christmas trees, fake snow, and tasty cuisine and regional specialties, this market offers a lot - but the Eiffel Tower views make it memorable.

Paris Hotels for Your Christmas Market Visit

Planning a trip to Paris during the holiday season?  Use this Paris hotel map to find hotels near your favorite Christmas markets: 

Check out the newest Paris hotels

Also, check out our recommendations for the best places to stay in Paris in the winter.

Where to Find More Christmas Markets

Most of these are smaller markets.  Most appear faithfully every year and attract hoards of loyal fans, although others are less reliable but worth looking for if you're already nearby. 

Christmas Market at Fontaine Saint-Michel

Located in front of the Gare de l'Est train station in the 10th Arrondissement, this popular market - the oldest Alsatian Christmas Market outside of Alsace - takes place under a big tent during the first two or three weeks in December (check December Events Calendar for exact dates).  Stock up on tasty Alsatian traditional food, with daily free tastings. 

What specialties should you look for?  The 15-20 Alsation artisans offer charcuterie, Munster and other cheeses, regional wines and brandies, jams, goose and duck foie gras, gugelhupf, brioche Männele, potato galettes, gingerbreads, smoked pork, and sauerkraut - all your favorite flavors of Alsace without leaving Paris.

Parc de la Villette

The Parc de la Villette Marché de Noel at La Grande Halle across from the Philharmonie concert hall (221 Avenue Jean-Jaurès) pops up in early December and remains open until Christmas Eve.  The market is small (although it seems to grow a bit larger each year), but you'll find all the essentials:  hot mulled wine, crepes filled with Nutella, and gifts.

Unfortunately, the photo above was taken in pouring rain - but normally, the market is filled with shoppers from the nearby area who stop by to enjoy a cup of vin chaud or steaming hot onion soup and to chat with their neighbors.

Gare Saint-Lazare Christmas Market

Gare Saint-Lazare Marché de Noël, in front of the Saint Lazare train station in the 8th arrondissement, sports a modern look and feel - in fact, purists might not even consider it a Christmas market.  But it's fun and all in good cheer, especially if you like Disney and Legos, plus who can resist the Champagne bar?

Saint-Sulpice Christmas Market

Saint-Sulpice, near the St-Sulpice Métro station, Luxembourg neighborhood in the 6th Arrondissement, usually early December through Christmas Eve; a pop-up Alpine ski rink sometimes also appears here.

Christmas Chalets near Cluny Museum

The Cluny Museum Christmas Market consists of only about a dozen chalets located along in a double row along Boulevard Saint-Germain next to the Cluny Museum in the Latin Quarter, with a few more around the corner on Boulevard Saint Michel.  Like many of Paris's other small hyper-local Christmas markets, you probably wouldn't go out of your way to visit it but if you happen to pass by, it's definitely worth a lingering look.  As you can see in the above photo, the special cheeses alone gives you a solid reason to stop and make a few purchases. 

Most of the chalets offer mouth-watering regional food specialties such as sausages, cheeses, patés, jams, fancy nuts and fruits, and wine, although a couple feature arrays of artisinal chocolates in gift boxes.  On chilly December nights, steaming containers of hot mulled wine and hot chocolates are a welcome sight to Parisians on their way home from work or school at the end of the day.

Trocadéro Christmas Village

Trocadéro Christmas Village takes place at or near (location varies) Palace of Chaillot in the 16th Arrondissement next to the Trocadéro Métro station, typically mid-December through early January - although not every year.

Christmas Market at the Feeries d'Anteuil - To Be Confirmed

This small market is located at 40 rue Jean de la Fontaine in the 16th arr, and runs for about 9 days in early December (see our December Events Calendar for exact dates).   In addition to crafts, leather goods, jewelry, and even an oyster bar, you can enjoy magic shows, puppets, concerts, and other family entertainment.  The market is run by a charity that supports disadvantaged Parisian children, and profits go to this cause.   Find the event schedule here: https://www.apprentis-auteuil.org

Montparnasse Christmas Market

Look for a small number of chalets next to the train station offering nice gift items and a few tasty things to eat and drink such as roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and spicy hot mulled wine. 

Although you probably wouldn't go out of your way to visit this market, like the Christmas market at Gare Saint-Lazare, it's popular with the numerous commuters who pass through the train and metro station each day.

Bercy Village Christmas Market & Holiday Lights

Bercy Village, a charming cobblestone passage lined with 19th century wine warehouses now transformed into cute boutiques, amusements, bistros, and bars in Paris's 12th arrondissement, stages a spectacular light display created each year by a different artist or designer, along with at least one large brightly lit tree and other decorations.  (The adjacent 18-screen UGC Cité-Cine Bercy movie theater is another big attraction.) 

A few popup stalls join the permanent shops for an experience that's slightly different from the more typical Christmas markets, but always worth a visit. 

Look for the light display from mid-November through mid-January.  

Location:   28 Rue François Truffaut, Paris 12

Christmas Market at Pompidou Center

The Marché de Noël Paris Beaubourg across from Centre Pompidou in the 4th arrondissement is usually open for the month of December until just after the New Year. 

The Christmas Market here is very close to the jazz clubs along Rue des Lombards, in case you need to reward yourself with music and a drink after shopping

15th Arrondissement Town Hall Christmas Market

In the courtyard at the 15th district's Hotel de Ville (31 rue Péclet, near Vaugirard Metro Station), you'll see about 20 chalets offering regional specialities, crafts, jewelry, and Christmas decorations, plus plenty of free fun activities including pony rides, sleigh rides, and even a merry-go-round. 

The market is usually there for about 10 days leading up to Christmas.

Sacre Coeur Christmas Market

This is a small, occasional market, with just a handful of chalets. Look for them next to the carousel in the small park at the foot of the hill leading up to Sacre Coeur.  If you don't see it, head over the the market at Place de l'Abbesses instead.

Place d'Italie Marché de Noel

About 20 chalets offer gifts and mouth-watering specialty food items at the Italie 2 shopping center at Place d'Italie (30 Avenue d'Italie, 13th arrondissement).  The market is usually in place from early December through Christmas Eve.

Champ de Mars / Quai Branly / Eiffel Tower Christmas Market

The location of this market varies - sometimes it's on Champ de Mars in front of the Eiffel Tower, and sometimes it's on Quai Branly next to the Seine.

The number of chalets varies as well, but here's the important thing to know:  food offerings here are usually outstanding, with prepared-on-the-spot treats such as raclette and even paella almost stealing the show.

But of course the real show-stopper here is the Iron Lady, especially when she sparkles during the nightly light show. 

During some years, an ice skating rink pops up next to the market, which usually takes place during the last 2 weeks in December/early January. 

Closest Metro: Bir Hakeim, Alma Marceau (across the Seine) or La Tour-Maubourg, 7th Arrondissement

Pop-Up Stalls Selling Holiday Fare

What's a pop-up Christmas market?  

Usually these are smaller markets, sometimes devoted to a specific theme such as the Japanese Holiday Market and the Swedish Christmas Market. 

These markets typically open from one to several days each season. Sometimes they take place in the same location from year to year, but not always.

Neighborhood pop-up stalls also come and go in some areas, so you will most likely happen upon them. 

One area where this frequently occurs is near Galeries Lafayette, across from the main building on Blvd Haussmann.  Look for luxury goods, such as perfume, designer scarves, and fine leather gloves.

Even the regularly-held Paris street markets expand their offerings at this time of the year. 

For example, Marché Saint-Honoré (Wednesday afternoon/evening and Saturday until 3pm) in the 1st Arrondissement expands with stalls offering gift items such as lovely knit baby garments, fancy confits, and jewelry.

Where to (Maybe) Find a Pop-Up Market

Pop-up Christmas markets, by their nature, are ephemeral and hard to find if you don't know where to look for them. 

A place always worth checking is the spacious Halle des Blancs Manteau (48 Rue Vielle du Temple, 4th Arrondissement), an old covered market dating back to the early 1800s in the heart of the Marais. 

If you don't find a pop-up market underway, you'll find plenty of other shopping opportunities in this part of the Marais - or cross the Seine to Ile Saint-Louis, where appealing gift boutiques and galleries line both sides of the main street down the island's center.

Another excellent and reliable option (it has taken place in the same location for almost two decades is Salon Idées Japon, the Japanese Christmas Market that pops up for three days in late November-early December in Passage Choiseul in Paris's 2nd arrondissement.

More than 40 Franco-Japanese creators and artists present a variety of beautiful creations such as jewelry, calligraphy, decorative objects, clothing, dolls, teas, and books that make wonderful Christmas gifts.  

Check our December Events Calendar for more pop-up markets

Dates for Les Marchés de Noël

Opening dates vary - but the larger markets usually open during the middle or end of November, or early December. 

Closing dates vary from just before or after Christmas to New Year's Eve or even early January.  Those that do continue into early January often close right before the big January sales begin.

A few smaller markets wait until mid-December to open.  Pop-up markets are ephemeral by definition and typically take place for only 1-3 days.

Check our December Events Calendar for exact dates, as they vary each year

Pin Now, Read Again Later

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• Top December Events in Paris
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8 Best Christmas Market Towns In France

• Activities and Interests
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Christmas markets in Europe have become a popular tourist attraction for visitors from the U.S. in recent years. The markets represent a time-honored tradition that dates back hundreds of years. Multi-day cruises and bus tours of Christmas markets are much in demand. The markets pride themselves on locally produced goods and merchandise, so visitors can take home an authentic souvenir to remember.

Here’s a list of the top villages and cities for Christmas markets in France.

1. Strasbourg

Strasbourg has the oldest Christmas market in France, which started in 1570. Today, the Strasbourg market is the largest in France with some 300 stalls and a total of 11 markets. Specialty markets include a children’s Christmas village with toy stalls, handicrafts, and a merry-go-round, a book market, a section with wines, and local craftspeople.

The OFF Market in Strasbourg creates an alternative market experience by offering antique holiday merchandise, vintage furniture, clothing, toys, and lights and decorations.

If you are a foodie, the Alsatian producers market features stalls with 100 percent made-in-Alsace food products including jams and jellies, gingerbread, hot wine with spices, apple cider, and honey.

The Strasbourg Cathedral , the tallest structure in Strasbourg, is a UNESCO-listed site, and its construction dates back to 1015 A.D. It’s considered one of the best examples of Gothic church architecture in France. Make sure you get to the cathedral no later than 12:15 p.m. to view the astronomical clock because at 12:30 p.m. there’s a performance of animated figures representing the different ages of man with figures of a child, teenager, adult, and old man. Markets surround the four sides of the cathedral.

On Place Kleber stands the soaring 90-foot-tall tree, freshly cut from the nearby forest in the Vosges mountain range, and people crowd around to view the magical lights and decorations adorning the tree. There’s also an ice skating rink in the square.

The old part of Colmar is one of the most enchanting villages in France, located in eastern France in the Alsace region, near the German border. The Christmas market in Colmar is like an enchanted fairy tale and is always on the top of the list of the best Christmas markets in France.

There are actually six separate markets in Colmar, which are all within walking distance from the main town square. Markets include a food market with regional and local foods and a children’s toy market.

Colmar is a canal city and on Wednesday and Saturday during the holiday season, children’s choirs sing Christmas carols on illuminated boats floating on the canals.

Place Rapp has an ice skating rink, so rent a pair of ice skates and show off your best figure eights.

The Alsace region is known for its white wines and sweet dessert wines. Many wine cellars have Christmas decorations and are open to the public for tastings.

We suggest spending two to three days in Colmar because there is a bevy of other activities connected to the markets.

Three-day/two-night packages are available at very reasonable prices, starting at 190 euros per person, which includes two nights in a hotel with free breakfast, a Colmar City Pass that includes a free 90-minute guided walking tour of the city (only in French), a three-course dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant excluding drinks, and a hot mulled wine from the Christmas market.

Pro Tip: Colmar is only 35 minutes by train from Strasbourg, so you can even do a day trip.

How about sipping some of the best Champagne in France on a giant Ferris wheel? Reims is the gateway city of the Champagne region and a great place to visit for their holiday market, the third largest in France.

The gothic cathedral from the 13th century in the center square of the city (which made our list of 7 Incredibly Beautiful Churches In France Besides Notre Dame ) is where the Reims Christmas Market is located, along with many other festivities. Over 100 stalls line the perimeter of the cathedral offering up handmade Christmas decorations and savory and sweet treats.

An artisan market is set up in a historic, former mansion, the Palace of Tau, with handicrafts, glassmakers, candlemakers, ceramicists, and embroiderers.

Kids will have a ball at the Children’s Kingdom by enjoying ice skating, meeting Santa Claus in person, playing with woodblocks, and participating in various craft-making activities.

A red train tram decked out in holiday decorations travels around the city.

4. Montbeliard

Close to the Swiss and German borders in eastern France, Montbeliard takes on the traditions of Wurttemberg in Germany with its elaborate Lumières de Noël Christmas market and fair as 170 booths take over the town square. The city chooses mostly local craftsmen and manufacturers selling ceramics, paintings and drawings, glassworks, clothing, wool hats, gloves, and scarves. Every year the Montbeliard market chooses a guest host country or city and honors their culture. In past years Corsica, Louisiana, Brittany, Portugal, and Scotland have been honorary places.

During Advent, Montbeliard puts on a daily knockout light show, positioning over 100,000 lights all over the village.

Not only is there the myth of Santa Claus in Montbeliard; there’s also Aunt Airie, a local fairy who walks around the village with a donkey dispensing gifts to children who are well-behaved.

If the cold temperatures at the markets in the northern part of France are not for you, then Avignon , in Provence, puts on a good show with its Christmas market and seasonal activities.

Stalls are gathered on the Place de l’Horloge, where the historic clock stands. The streets are aglow with holiday lights. And don’t miss the Chemin des Creches, a walkway lined with animated and colorful nativity scenes with santons , the hand-carved, hand-colored figures inside the nativity.

The town also sponsors folk dancing in native costumes, games for the children, and a Christmas parade.

6. Mulhouse

Also located in the Alsace region, Mulhouse has one of the most festive and grandest Christmas markets in France. Mulhouse is known for its textile industry, and every year an original holiday fabric is designed by a textile designer. The fabric is draped over the buildings, the town square, and the city hall.

Stalls around the Place de la Reunion and the Temple Saint-Etienne have workshops where children and adults can paint or draw on fabric. A section of the market has more than 30 chalets dedicated exclusively to artisans, seamstresses, and decorators selling jewelry, home accessories, hats, clothing, and gifts that are made in Mulhouse.

Bredalas , little tasty treats made with sugar, walnuts, and butter, are specially baked for Christmas time and sold at food stands in the market and local bakeries.

A giant Ferris wheel towering over the city and ice skating are just two of the fun holiday activities in Mulhouse.

On the Flemish border of Belgium, Christmas festivities have a slightly different twist. Ninety mini-chalets are clustered around Place Rihour, selling not only locally-made products but also crafts and items imported from Poland, Russia, Germany, and Canada.

In the old quarter of the city, Rue de la Grande Chaussee, Rue de la Monnaie, and Rue Esquermoise are the best streets for holiday and boutique shopping.

Meert is the oldest confectionery shop in Lille, with chocolates, caramels, flavored marshmallows, hard candies, and their famous dried waffles filled with vanilla cream, and their divine tea salon serves holiday-themed pastries and thick, rich hot chocolate.

On the Saturday before Christmas, the big event is when Santa Claus takes a giant fall off the belfry from the City Hall.

The City of Light has a neighborhood of 15 to 20 Christmas markets plus a number of pop-up markets.

The Hotel de Ville, the main city hall of Paris, has one of the more festive markets, along with a carousel and 40 stands.

Tuileries Garden combines a market and an amusement park. A mini ice skating rink, a Champagne bar, mulled wine, and a giant illuminated Santa and his reindeer are just a few of the delights.

Five hundred feet above Paris in the village of Montmartre is a small Christmas holiday market on the Place des Abbesses, the main square.

• Most markets are open starting the third week in November and close either the day after Christmas or on December 30. We advise going in November or the beginning of December to avoid the crowds.
• Try to visit the markets during the week because the weekends tend to be more crowded because of locals doing their holiday shopping.
• Bundle up and wear layers, plus hats, gloves, and scarves, especially if you are visiting the markets in Northern or Eastern France, or, better yet, wait till you arrive to buy them at the market.
• Resist bargaining at the stalls unless you are buying two items or more, and if you do choose to bargain, don’t ask for a reduction of more than 20 percent.
• Many of these destinations are near Paris and can be easily reached by train, including Reims (45 minutes each way) and Lille (one hour each way), and can be visited during day trips .

Related Reading:

• 9 Best Things To Do In Paris During Christmas
• 10 Gorgeous Places In Paris That Look Like A Hallmark Christmas Movie
• 7 Small French Towns That Could Star In A Hallmark Movie

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

Traveling Without a Passport

The Best Christmas Markets in France

It’s not just Germany that boasts a wealth of great Christmas Markets. Here are our picks for the top Christmas markets in France

France certainly knows how to celebrate Christmas in style. It’s so easy to get into the festive spirit when you’re surrounded by twinkling lights, the sound of carol singers, and the warm scent of mulled wine and hot chocolate filling the air. Wherever you are in France, you’ll get an intensely regional flavor—and that goes for its Christmas markets , too. Head east to Alsace for influences from neighboring Germany, or dive into France’s deep south for a taste of Spain or Italy. Get the most of a festive break when you visit one of these top Christmas markets in France. 

See Also: Christmas Market Tours in Europe

As one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik has been enchanting visitors and locals alike since 1570. This extraordinarily beautiful city in Alsace beside the German border justifies its nickname of the Capital of Christmas. Just look at its 100-ft Great Christmas Tree decked with hundreds of illuminated candles, cherubs and flashing lights dominating Place Kléber. 

From late November until Christmas Eve, you can browse more than 300 stalls in various squares around the historic center, including the most majestic spectacle in front of Strasbourg Cathedral. Snack on festive treats including spicy gingerbread and cinnamon-filled Alsatian cookies called bredele. If you’re really hungry, get a plate of choucroute, a hearty Alsatian dish of smoked pork ribs, potatoes, sausages and sauerkraut—just the thing to warm you up on a chilly winter’s night.

See Also: Christmas Tours in France & Germany

Lille, the capital of French Flanders in France’s northeast, has one of the country’s most charming Christmas markets, which runs from mid-November till the end of the year. Start off in Grand Place where a ride on the giant wheel gives you fantastic views of the city. Look out for Santa and Mrs Claus with all the elves and sleighs, then head around the corner to the Christmas Village set up in Place Rihour. When you’re not buying Christmas presents and regional artisanal produce, you’re feasting on cheesy donuts, fluffy waffles and gooey melted raclette cheese while Christmassy music fills the air.

France’s lively wine capital turns one of its most elegant avenues, Alleés de Tourny, into a dazzling display of Christmas lights and gaily decorated craft and food stalls. Over four weeks until Christmas Day, you can taste some of Bordeaux’s famous wines among the local delicacies, including juicy oysters and other shellfish from nearby Arcachon Bay. Take part in some of the workshops on offer, including a cooking class, and look out for the exciting medieval dances and mock battles. Across the Garonne River in the funky Darwin district, there’s another Christmas market that takes place over two weekends in December. In this buzzing place, DJs and live bands perform while you check out the stalls selling sustainable goods and vintage clothes.

Carcassonne

As if Carcassonne wasn’t enough of a fairy tale, it goes into festive overdrive in December during what’s aptly called the Magic of Christmas. Both its magnificent citadel, La Cité, and lower town, La Bastide, are smothered in lights, giant wreaths and baubles, while the tantalizing scent of Spanish churros wafts through the air. Join the skaters swirling around on the ice rink in Place Carnot, and take in soothing views of the Canal du Midi from the top of the Ferris wheel. If you happen to be in Carcassonne during St Nicholas Day on December 6, you can watch the enthralling spectacle of a torchlight procession making its spirited way through the city.

The red carpet literally comes out at Christmastime in this handsome city in the northern Hauts-de-France region. The entire Grand Place is swathed in deep red to add to the magical atmosphere of sparkling lights and the square’s colorful Flemish Baroque gabled townhouses. From late November to late December, you can wander round nearly 150 wooden stalls selling Christmas gifts and regional snacks (including lots of local pungent cheese). Take a twirl on the outdoor skating rink or whoosh down the toboggan run when you’re not riding the big wheel. Next door in the equally gorgeous Place des Héros, you can climb to the top of the medieval belfry and take in a fabulous view of the square’s Christmas Court of Lights.

See Also: Christmas Market Tours going through France

Colmar is one of France’s most exquisite cities, with a historic center crammed with medieval and Renaissance half-timbered houses. Now imagine this beautiful place—the wine capital of Alsace—decorated for the six Christmas markets that take over from late November to late December. Each has its own way of spreading Christmas cheer, from the Gourmet Market serving Alsatian specialties such as the pizza-like flammkuechen to the Children’s Market in Colmar’s Little Venice district where kids can ride the merry-go-round and post a letter to Santa.

Here in Champagne Country, expect plenty of Yuletide sparkle and fizz at Reims’s Christmas Market, one of the largest in France. Over four weeks until Christmas Eve, you can marvel at the sound-and-light show and giant Christmas tree in front of the impressive 13 th -century cathedral. You’ll have the chance to pick up stocking stuffers at one of the 150 gift and craft stalls and take a ride on the Ferris wheel. Treat yourself to glasses of champagne while you do your Christmas shopping in this festive atmosphere.

It’s not surprising that the City of Light has about 20 markets scattered around different neighborhoods. From mid-November until about January 7, Paris ramps up its romance factor with a large Christmas market in the Tuileries Gardens, where a skating rink and funfair joins the dozens of wooden food and craft stalls. The scent of freshly made crêpes and roasted chestnuts will be hard to resist as you decide which Christmas candles and ornaments to buy. The festive air is everywhere, from the Alsatian Food Market near the Gare de l’Est train station to the spectacular lights strung up along the Champs-Elysées. 

Celebrate Christmas Riviera style at Nice’s colorful Christmas market that runs all throughout December. Stroll along the glamorous Promenade des Anglais past palm trees dripping with twinkly lights before heading into stately Place Masséna and its Italian-style townhouses. Here among the lights and giant wheel you’ll find dozens of wooden huts selling Christmas presents and delicious snacks like the local chickpea pancake called socca. The party continues into neighboring Jardin Albert 1er, with more food and gift stalls, street entertainment and live concerts.

France’s second-largest Christmas market (after Strasbourg) sprawls across five different locations in this attractive Lorraine city from mid-November till early January.

Head to Place Saint Louis, where the original Metz market began in this beautiful square of medieval houses and porticoed walkways. Then join the skaters on the ice rink in the huge Place de la République, where there’s extra festive sparkle in the form of a giant wooden Christmas pyramid. This traditional structure of wooden huts stacked onto each other originated in nearby Germany, and has become a big favorite in this northeastern region of France. Bring a big appetite to the Gourmet Market in Place de la Comédie, which sits on its own island in the Moselle River. There’s more fun in store in Place d’Armes and its 200-ft Ferris wheel, and in Place Saint Jacques, where the Christmas Village tempts you with its wooden craft stalls and merry-go-round.

Mary Novakovich

Award-winning travel writer Mary Novakovich is based in the UK and writes for the Times, Telegraph, Guardian and Independent. She is the author of a Croatia travelogue, “My Family and Other Enemies.”

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Most beautiful Christmas Markets in France

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Best Christmas Markets in France in 2023

Christmas time is coming to town! Discover the best Christmas markets in France in 2023 . Enjoy their Christmas decorations, their beautiful Christmas trees, the best place to find original Christmas gifts for the whole family in one of the best Christmas destinations in France . 

We have selected the best Christmas Markets in France for you. Enjoy a perfect Christmas holiday at the best price by booking your accommodation , tours and activities .

Select the " free cancellation " option and  pre-book your accommodation  at the best price. 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Ski Resorts in France , Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France , Best Beaches in France , Most Amazing Castles in France , Best Places to Visit in France as well as the Best Things to do in France . 

  Confirmed dates

From 24th November to 30th December 2023 

Get into the spirit of the festive season and enjoy the warmest of welcomes as you visit the Christmas markets on Metz ’s six main squares.

See the ice sculptures at the Frozen Fairyland, then warm up cold hands around a hot spicy drink or mulled wine.

Let the illuminations chase away the dark winter days, and enjoy traditional treats like the merry-go-round, a walk through the magic forest or take the chance to stock up on gastronomic Christmas essentials at the city market hall. Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From 24 th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Metz Airport or Strasbourg Airport (1h30).

  Where to stay:   " La Citadelle Metz MGallery " for guests who enjoy luxurious accommodation.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Metz.

2. Montbeliard

From 25th November to 24th December 2023

Located in Franche-Comté (Eastern France), the town of Montbéliard – well known for its hospitality- turns into a pure enchantment few weeks before Christmas.

During the time of Advent, Montbéliard revives the tradition of Württemberg and organizes a Christmas market like no other with 160 lovely stalls full of authentic and high quality items. Taking a stroll down the illuminated streets, the visitors may taste the delicious gastronomic products from Montbéliard and France, marvel at the variety of art and crafts, dance to the music and the sound of choral songs.

During your stay discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From  25th  November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Montbéliard or Basel/Mulhouse (1h by car, 2h by public transport).

  Where to stay:   " Ibis Styles Montbéliard ". Perfect for a 2-night stay!

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Montbeliard.

3. Strasbourg

From 26th November to 26th December 2023

It was in Strasbourg in 1570 that the very first edition of the oldest Christmas market in Europe took place, then called the "Christkindelsmärik" (market of the Infant Jesus).

Since this time, Strasbourg has continued the tradition of a traditional, authentic, warm and generous Alsatian Christmas and these are all the reasons why " Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas " continues to enjoy repeated success.

  Opening dates:  From  26 th November to 26th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Strasbourg or Basel (1h15 by car/2h by train).

  Where to stay:   " Adagio Strasbourg Place Kleber ". Set in the heart of Strasbourg. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Strasbourg.

 From 23rd November to 29th December 2023

The magic of Christmas in Colmar , first of all there’s the ambiance of the Old Town, illuminated and decorated like a fairy tale: a historic setting made magical by the Christmas illuminations which, in this festive period, blend harmoniously with the wonderful lighting designed to enhance the town’s heritage, and lay a soothing aura of light over the centre of Colmar.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From  23rd  November to 29th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Basel/Mulhouse Airport (40 min by car 1h by public transport) or Strasbourg (1h).

  Where to stay:   " Odalys City Colmar La Rose d'Argent " offers a fitness room and swimming pool.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Colmar.

From 24th November to 31st December 2023 

Visitors young and old have been coming to the Amiens Christmas Market since 1997. With it's 130 chalets that stretch for over 2 km, it has a great choice of gift ideas. From 23rd November to 31st December, craftsmen from France and all over the world will offer a variety of handmade gifts, Christmas décorations and delicious delicacies. 

For this 21st edition, flowers arranging on display are made by Andrée Joinville.  Every  Christmas mecanics decorations in shops are handmad with naturals, vegetables matters  and flowers. All of them are created in the spirit of Christmas.

  Opening dates:  From  24th  November to 31th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Beauvais Airport or Paris Charles de Gaulle (1h15).

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Le Prieuré et La Résidence ". Located at the foot of Amiens Cathedral.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Amiens

From 24th November to 24th December 2023

Share the spirit of Christmas with your friends or your family and enjoy the magic of Christmas in Reims for a weekend. Spend an unforgettable moment exploring the Christmas market and the streets of Reims: discover 145 chalets gathered on the Parvis of the Cathedrale. Let the magic of Christmas amaze you through illuminations, divine smells of typical meals and beverages, creators, events and more.

  Opening dates:  From  24th November to 24 th December 2023.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Paris Vatry Airport (50 min) or Paris Charles de Gaulle (1h30).

  Where to stay:   " La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa ". Facing Reims Cathedral. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Reims.

From 22th November to 31st December 2023

In the heart of winter,  Lille  sparkles and glows with joie de vivre! With the wave of a magic wand, the city takes on a festive atmosphere and welcomes you to a  winter wonderland !

On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets teem with gift ideas, nativity figurines,  Christmas decorations  and festive food. You can find regional specialities here, and you can also find arts and crafts from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as products from Native America. 

During your stay d iscover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From 22th November to 31st December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Lille, Charleroi (1h15) or Brussels/Zaventem (1h30 by public transport).

  Where to stay:   " Moxy Lille City ". Situated in the real heart of Lille.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Lille.

8. Mulhouse

From 24th November to 23rd December 2023

With exceptional decorations made of a unique fabric in Alsace, festive lighting and many animations, Mulhouse is definitely THE place to live the Christmas magic.

The distinctiveness of the  Christmas market of Mulhouse  comes from its link to its rich industrial textile history. For this 27th edition, the star will be of course this particular fabric.

Connecting authenticity and tradition, this fabric is however constantly renewed with originality and each year, a new and exclusive Christmas fabric dresses the whole city for that time of the year.

  Opening dates:  From 24 th November to 23rd December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Basel/Mulhouse Airport.

  Where to stay:   " La Maison Hôtel Mulhouse Centre " located in the city centre of Mulhouse. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Mulhouse.

From 20th November to 26th December 2023

Traditional and popular Christmas markets are a major shopping event and are held from November onwards.

Originating in Germany and the Alsace, Christmas markets have spread throughout Europe since the 1990s. Little by little, they have become an essential festive event during the  Christmas season in Paris . They are held all over the capital: in Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés , Place de la Nation on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées and in Place du Trocadéro…,  and are a great success with passers-by.

  Opening dates:  From 20 th November to 26th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Paris.

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Dress Code & Spa ". Situated a 3-winute walk from Opéra Garnier.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Paris.

From 25 th November  to  30th December 2023

The Christmas market in Arras is laid out in the magnificent setting of the Grand’Place, a Flemish Baroque architectural ensemble unrivalled in Europe. A remarkable backdrop with a forest of Christmas trees, where 140 artisans and exhibitors await you in an authentic and festive atmosphere in the heart of the town.

An enchanting interlude to prepare for the celebrations ahead and to delight your loved ones with plenty of gift ideas. Sample roasted chestnuts or spice bread before wandering along the wide lanes edged with market stalls, where there are crafts, jewellery, wooden toys and decorations to be discovered, and much more besides.

  Opening dates:  From 2 5 th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Lille (20 min) or Brussels Charleroi Airport (1h).

  Where to stay:   " La Cour des Grands " Enjoy its restaurant, bar and shared lounge.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Arras.

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The Best Christmas Markets in France

Adrian Hancu / Getty Images 

Christmas is a magical time in France, and the markets bring a vibrant energy to cities and towns of every size throughout France. From the hustle of Paris to the seascapes in Normandy, the markets draw in both locals and visitors for holiday shopping. Explore the colorful wooden stalls that line the boulevards and streets as the marketplaces are filled with a treasure trove of food, local goods, and vintage gear that are sure to be a hit under the holiday tree. 

Christmas Markets in Hauts-de-France

CHICUREL Arnaud hemis.fr / Getty Images

The various towns in the northern region of Hauts-de-France (Upper France) transform once winter arrives. Start in the delightful city of Arras , which for a small town has a wonderful market. The selling season starts in November and often lasts into the early days of the New Year.

The port cities like Boulogne,  Dunkirk (famous for the World War II Operation Dynamo), and  Le Touquet  provide the backdrop of salty sea air while shopping. Further inland the towns of  Amiens , Béthune, and Lille  put on a show for the month. In Lens, visit the  Louvre-Lens  with its fabulous art from its Paris parent. Licques is famous for its annual turkey parade. 

Paris Christmas Markets

 Clay McLachlan / Getty Images

The most visited Christmas market in the country was traditionally held on the Champs-Elysées, but due to a dispute between the organizers and mayor's office, it was moved down the road to the Jardin des Tuileries. The garden, located directly in front of the Louvre, is filled with stands selling French artisan wares and local treats like waffles, and crepes. Expect enormous crowds as the market has drawn over 15 million visitors each year.

To avoid the throngs, there are many other delightful Christmas markets that can be found by walking through the surrounding neighborhoods. The local markets feel much more traditional than the tourist-filled Jardin de Tuileries, although the impressive scenery of the gardens is worth a visit in itself.

Caen in Normandy

Atout France / CDT Calvados

Caen’s traditional Christmas Market takes over the Place Saint-Sauveur in the middle of the town. Pick and choose items from the international stalls that fill the air with the smell of pain d'epices, a French version of ginger loaf, and warm wine. The market has something for everyone's Christmas stocking, from foie gras to nativity figurines. 

There are also other Christmas markets in the region, such as Falaise with its castle where William the Conqueror was born and an excellent location to explore the history of Medieval Normandy . While in the area, try to visit Bayeux and its spectacular tapestry .

Rouen in Normandy

Atout France /CDT Calvados

Rouen , the capital of Normandy and the city associated with Joan of Arc  who was burnt at the stake here in 1431, pulls out all the stops at Christmas. The magnificent cathedral provides the backdrop to a market with over 70 booths, which offers items from far and wide. There are two ice rinks where visitors can glide away and enough entertainment to keep the whole family happy.

Reims in Champagne

Reims Tourist Office

Champagne and Christmas are made for each other. Of all the markets throughout the region, the biggest is in Reims , the capital of Champagne.

For centuries, French kings were crowned in the cathedral of Reims and the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . At Christmastime, you'll find 135 chalets dotted around the city in different locations and there’s a big Ferris wheel on Place de la Republique.

There's also the Children's Kingdom where the kids can meet Father Christmas, ride a train, and partake in free ice skating. Nearby is the Craft Market offering ceramics, jewelry, and other handmade objects. Drive from Reims to any of the other nearby towns to get a whole range of different Christmas markets.

Strasbourg in Alsace

 Jon Hicks / Getty Images

Alsace is a particularly magical place for Christmas markets. Situated near Germany and Switzerland, the area takes inspiration from all three countries.

The Christmas markets of Strasbourg —the biggest city in Alsace—began back in 1570, making it the oldest in France. At the crossroads of Europe, the market at Strasbourg has an international atmosphere. The 300 stands of the market spread out throughout the city, with the center in Place Broglie and Cathedral Square. There’s a huge Christmas tree in Place Kleber and an ice rink outside the magnificent cathedral .

For Alsatian food, go to the Place des Meunieres; the three kings are to be found in Place Benjamin-Zix, and the "Golden Square" is located on the Place du Temple-Neuf. Wines are sold on the Place d’Austerlitz along with local food delicacies, and in the commercial Galerie de ​l'Aubette you’ll find a book market.

Colmar in Alsace

 Sami Sert / Getty Images

Colmar  may be famous as the birthplace of Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, but at Christmas, it’s equally well known for its market. The pedestrianized center is full of old houses and cobbled streets, adding to the Hansel and Gretel atmosphere that seems to take over all cities in Alsace in December. While visiting, don't miss one of Europe's greatest sacred works of art, the Issenheim Altarpiece.

There are five markets in the old town of Colmar. Families with children should go first to Petite Venise (Little Venice) for wooden toys, stocking fillers, and sweet things. There’s also a postbox for letters to Father Christmas, a wooden merry-go-round and a nativity scene. Arts and crafts, from paintings to jewelers and second-hand booksellers fill the Koifhus covered market; and more stalls outside cluster around the fountain. For local crafts and food, make way to the Place Jeanne d’Arc.

Mulhouse in Alsace

Daniel Schoenen / LOOK-foto / Getty Images 

Mulhouse is well known as a textile town with its Museum of Printed Textiles , a popular attraction. Each year the city has a new fabric designed which decorates the stalls throughout the city, and the museum hosts a market just for selling fabrics.

The main action during the Christmas season, however, is in the Place de la Réunion in the old city center. The impressive city hall is illuminated, overlooking the 50 stalls that offer all the holiday goodies. In the Place de la Concorde, you'll find a traditional Hungarian arts and crafts village, and if you want music, make your way to the Saint Etienne Church for concerts of Christmas music.

Nancy in Lorraine

JEAN-CHRISTOPHE VERHAEGEN / Getty Images 

Christmas kicks off in Nancy on Saint Nicholas Day, celebrating the patron saint of the weak, oppressed, and children, and although the official holiday date is December 6, Nancy celebrates early on the weekend of December 1 and 2.

In the afternoon of December 1, street entertainers enthrall the crowds until the fireworks show at night on Place Stanislas. The Saint Nicholas Parade is on December 2 when Santa gives out gingerbread figures and his rather more sinister companion Pere Fouettard, or Whipping Father, dispenses spankings to boys and girls who have not been good during the previous year.

The Christmas market starts at the same time, mainly in Place Maginot where you can pick up local food from fresh bread to charcuterie, Bergamotte bonbons, and Mirabelle liqueur. There are street entertainment, carol singing, and folk dancing.

Avignon in Provence

JackF / Getty Images 

Start at the town hall in  Avignon for a look at the spectacular nativity scene, before continuing on to other highlights in the city like the Palais du Roure or the many churches. The buildings are specially lit up and travelers can stroll through the pedestrian-free center with ease.

Running throughout December, there’s a winter village of 60 stalls offering all those tempting Provençale-style gifts that make the southern Christmas markets so different from their northern counterparts. The main market is on the Place de l’Horloge with stalls and entertainment filling the surrounding streets as well. Buy the local magnificent santons figures (painted terracotta nativity figurines); Provençal fabrics, jewelry, and candles; and stock up on nougat, candied fruits, chocolate, and spicy cake.  

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The Best Christmas Markets in France

When visiting France during the holidays, taking in Christmas markets is a not to be missed highlight. Throughout France, markets bring together the best of holiday traditions, local artisans, festive illuminations, gourmet specialties and entertainment for the whole family, yet each is unique. Read on to discover French Side Travel’s guide to the best Christmas markets in France.

Colmar: Private Guided Tour to Experience Christmas Market Magic

The small town of Colmar is one of the most exquisite in France with its historic center filled with medieval half-timbered houses and small winding canals. During Christmas, the streets of Colmar are impeccably decorated. It’s impossible not to be amazed and get swept up into the magic of the season.

Colmar’s six Christmas markets each exude the magic of Christmas. Your private guide will show you everything including the Maison des Têtes , an outstanding German Renaissance building and the Petite Venise neighborhood where gorgeous traditional half-timbered houses are lined along the Lauch River. Projected lights on buildings display advent calendars, twinkling stars, and winter scenes.

From November 23rd through December 29th.

Dijon: Gastronomic and Traditional Christmas Market

Your private guide will lead you through the heart of the UNESCO World-Heritage classified city center of Dijon. To celebrate the festive season, experience the city’s gourmet and traditional Christmas markets. During the Christmas season in Dijon, you’ll find the city beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and festive wreaths. Place de la Libération is home to a 59-foot tall Christmas tree and historic carousel. Place de la Republique features a ferris wheel and ice-skating rink.

No Dijon Christmas market experience would be complete without tasting the specialties from the Burgundy region: think gingerbread, mustards, cheeses, and Bœuf bourguignon to name a few.

At night, experience a walk lit completely by lanterns. During this beautiful evening, your private guide will share anecdotes about Christmas traditions related to Dijon’s culture.

From December 1st through December 31st.

Strasbourg: Private Guided Christmas Walk

In December, Strasbourg is all decked out and oozes a fairy tale ambiance with the lights and Christmas decorations. Strasbourg offers no less than 10 Christmas markets. Take a private guided Christmas walk to discover the best of the city and its markets. Strasbourg is filled with a festive atmosphere from the magnificent Cathedral to its most beautiful squares.

There is nothing quite like the Strasbourg Christmas markets with more than 300 market stalls, miles of garlands of light, the majestic Big Tree, and dazzling shows and concerts.

From November 24th until December 24th at 6:00 pm. The After-Christmas Village at Louise Weiss Square will be open until January 1st 2024.

Bordeaux: Traditional Festive Christmas Market

If you are visiting Bordeaux during Christmas time, then a visit to the region’s traditional festive market on Allées de Tourny is a must.

Discover the 150 stands that are precisely laid out, divided by a center alley, and encircled by a periphery path. You’ll find artisans on one side and plenty of special drinks, foods, and regional products on the other side of the market. If you’ve come to knock out some Christmas shopping you are in the right place. There are plenty of local objects, crafts, perfumes, jewelry, kitchen utensils, toys, candles, soaps, and more. During your stroll at the Christmas market, do not miss Rue Saint Catherine, the largest pedestrian shopping street in Bordeaux.

The Bordeaux Christmas market hosts a variety of events all throughout December. There is of course the unmissable star: Santa Claus, who is waiting for you for a photo. Near the pine forest, there is also a very beautiful nativity scene. A large covered area for children is installed near the catering area.

From November 24th through December 27th.

Where to Stay in Bordeaux

Intercontinental Bordeaux This upscale 5-star hotel is in an 18th-century neoclassical-inspired building facing the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. It is in the city’s historic center with the Place de Quinconces and the Saint André Cathedral just a short stroll away Chic rooms feature ornate furnishings and rich palettes, plus free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffee machines. Suites add sitting areas, some with wine bars. Family suites have pull-out sofas and two bathrooms. Amenities include two upscale restaurants, a stylish cocktail bar, and an indoor courtyard serving afternoon tea. Relax at the indoor pool, the fitness center, the spa, or the outdoor hot tub. When booking this hotel with French Side Travel, enjoy the following privileges: 85€ value-added amenity (hotel credit), upgrade to next room category, early check in and late check out (subject to availability on arrival), complimentary Wi-Fi (unlimited devices).

Lyon: An Enchanting Traditional Christmas Village

During the holiday season, the oldest square in Lyon, Place Carnot, transforms into a true Christmas village. The square and the market are illuminated with decorative lights giving it a joyful atmosphere. The Christmas Market showcases the skills and talents of local producers, artisans, and businesses.

Visitors can indulge in delicious local products like fruit jams, chestnuts, ice creams, gingerbread, wine, foie gras and more. You also can shop for unique Christmas decorations such as stars, baubles, garlands, and enchanting santons. Local craftsmen fill their stalls with beautiful retro jewelry, textiles, and accessories.

The Lyon Christmas market is a dream for children. There are numerous activities set up including puzzles and toys to play with. The children’s make believe workshops and story readings are a highlight. Children can also whisper their wishes in Santa’s ear. As a nice gesture of Christmas charity, the proceeds from the photos with Santa Claus are donated to L’Association l’Orchidée , whose aim is to help seriously ill children.

From November 26th through December 24th.

Reims: Christmas Market with Enchanting Chalets

The stunning and historical city of Reims is lovely during Christmas time. The first French Christmas celebrations took place in 496 in Reims. The Reims Christmas market is highly anticipated each year. The event has become one of the most popular Christmas markets in France attracting nearly 1.5 million visitors from all over the world. Visitors can discover approximately 150 chalets lit with twinkling lights and filled with seasonal gifts.

A highlight is the incredible sound and light show Regalia , which takes viewers through the emotion and beauty of a coronation day. The Children’s Kingdom features activities like an animation show, Santa’s chalet, train rides, and Christmas ropes courses. This festive market also has a Ferris wheel and an ice-skating rink.

Visitors can take in musical concerts, watch nativity scenes, savor authentic gourmet cuisine, or just stroll around the streets with loved ones. This season is an excellent moment to discover the city of Reims and its Cathedral.

From November 24th through December 24th.

Paris: Varied Christmas Markets

A must-see when visiting Paris in the winter is one or more of the fabulous Christmas markets in Paris. You will find the markets sprinkled throughout the city. Each is different and provides a festive mix of ways to take in the holiday spirit. We recommend getting a cup of hot chocolate and wandering the various stalls. You will find holiday decorations, regional and seasonal food specialties, music, sometimes rides and attractions and general merriment!

Some of the most popular Christmas Markets in Paris can be found in the following locations: the Tuileries Garden (formerly along the Champs-Élysées), Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Saint-Sulpice, Place de la Nation, Place des Abesses in Montmartre, Gare de l’Est and Trocadero.

From November 18th through January 7th.

Montpellier: Christmas with a Mediterranean Twist

If you are hoping to experience an enchanting Christmas atmosphere with a Mediterranean twist, look no further than the beautiful Montpellier Christmas Market, also known in French as the Hivernales de l’Esplanade , one of the most popular Christmas events in Southern France.

The event normally sees the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle transformed into a winter wonderland. However, in 2023 the event will take place at Place Royale du Peyrou.

In Christmas stalls, visitors will find a selection of unique crafts from artisanal soaps and handmade jewelry to local food delicacies from the surrounding Languedoc-Roussillon region. Savor Christmas specialties like Bûche de Noël , a classic Christmas dessert that is similar to a sponge cake roll, confit de canard , foie gras , oysters, ratatouille , tarte tatin , and more.

From December 2nd through December 30th.

Annecy: Christmas Market and Light Show

\Annecy’s Christmas festival is held in the little Venice of the Alpine Christmas landscape. Around 90 exhibitors present their wares in 120 wooden Savoyard chalets. In fact, Annecy organizes two Christmas markets for residents and visitors.

The first market is located at the entrance of Annecy’s old town, allowing visitors to stroll in the old streets dating back to the Middle Ages. These Alpine chalets offer ideal Christmas gifts and authentic Savoyard culinary specialties such as tartiflette and diots au vin blanc . For a memorable souvenir, you can buy beautiful hand-made santons, traditional games, or toys.

Then, you can visit Annecy’s second Christmas market on Place François de Menthon. Also known as the Alpine Village, it recreates the atmosphere of an Alpine winter sports resort. Discover the numerous chalet-style stands showcasing original clothing creations and costume jewelry. Visitors can taste gourmet foods like fondue , oysters, or raclette . At the end of the day, stop to enjoy a musical performance in a guinguette atmosphere, or try ice-skating.

From November 25th through January 6th.

Honfleur: Artisanal and Gourmet Christmas Market

The picturesque city of Honfleur is mostly known for its historic harbor, unique church, and many timber-framed houses. The Christmas atmosphere is incredible with glowing fireplaces in the city of impressionist painters.

The Honfleur Christmas market takes place near the Place de l’Hotel de Ville. Visitors can discover the 28 chalets filled with novelties. Enjoy the oyster bar and various food stalls, a Christmas beer barrel, and above all an original attraction called the Double Toboggan Run, a sliding tunnel instead of an ice rink.

Activities like storytelling, musical choirs, and various craft demonstrations and workshops can also be enjoyed. The exhibitors of the market are carefully selected to highlight regional quality products.

From December 20th through January 7th.

Where to Stay in Honfleur

Hotel Saint Delis Nestled in the heart of Honfleur’s historic district in Normandy and just two hours from Paris, this luxury 5-star hotel with a discreet charm is an essential part of the city’s arts and historical heritage. Situated among the 17th-century architecture, the hotel appears enchanting from the first glance. Every room overlooks beautiful gardens and provides a variety of views in an intimate and personalized setting. The bedrooms are elegantly furnished and have magnificent, comfortable bathrooms where the beauty of marble and mirrors combine to create a luxurious and contemporary atmosphere. Rooms are equipped with modern amenities, each room has a shower hammam, and the Deluxe and Junior suites have a spa bath as well. While you are here, you can also enjoy services such as horse carriage rides, massage therapy, and painting lessons. There are also facilities for child care. Guests will also be able to savor dishes made from local ingredients and inspired by Saint-Siméon collection restaurants for the best culinary experiences, in the restaurant of Ferme Saint Siméon. This is an ideal place for a family stay or a weekend of relaxation, as well as a vast array of activities that will delight young and old alike.

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The 17 Best Christmas Markets in France

• By Frenchly Staff
• December 18, 2023

If you are lucky enough to be in France during the holidays, there is nothing that can compare to the feeling of walking the holiday market streets, with a cup of  vin chaud  in your hand. As the air fills with the sweet scents of gingerbread and nuts, spices and Christmas trees, and the twinkling fairy lights enhance the magic of the season. This is a chance to join in on the festivities while enjoying the cool air, the happy faces, thoughtful and tasteful Christmas decorations and stocking up on any last-minute gifts you may need. Part carnival, part fair, part market, part block party, French Christmas markets are not something you want to miss. Put it on your bucket list!

Most French cities and towns have their own version of holiday market. Visitors may take the French trains to any of the listed towns and cities. Your biggest choice will be between smaller Christmas markets in picturesque villages, or the beautiful Christmas markets in big French cities. Most French Christmas markets start around Thanksgiving, and culminate with Christmas celebrations on December 24 or 25. Some even go all the way until New Year’s Eve or Epiphany!

North to South, East to West: The Best Christmas Markets in France

1. amiens christmas market.

The northern city of Amiens—capital of Picardy—hosts a festive Christmas market with a mix of local and international products that you won’t want to miss. Food-wise, they’ve got you covered: taste the delightful Amiens  macarons  and  tuiles amienoises  (crunchy, delicious almond biscuit treats), as well as savory snacks like  pâté de canard,  which will help you put on that inevitable holiday weight in style. Wash it all down with a warming glass of mulled wine at this traditional market.

What truly sets Amiens apart is its nightly  son et lumière,  a spectacular light and sound show projected onto its Notre Dame Cathedral, which happens to be the biggest gothic cathedral in France. These are not your average Christmas lights! (Nightly show at 7:00 PM)

Dates: November 25 – December 30

2. Annecy Christmas Market

Experience an Alpine Christmas in the lake town of Annecy, nestled at the base of the snowcapped Alps. This medieval city opens it’s doors at Christmas time, with over 80 vendors in  chalets  throughout the town offering dozens of gift ideas from the Alsace/Savoie region, including wooden toys and ornaments, Reblochon cheese, chocolates, pastries, woolens, berry jams, honey, candles and more. Open until early January, visitors can stock up on homemade gifts, warm up with a cup of hot wine, and stroll in the evenings to look at the spectacular lights illuminating the unique architecture. (In particular, the castle situated in the middle of a canal, Palais de l’Isle, its image bouncing off the crystal clear lake water.) A twelve-minute light show projected on the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) can also be enjoyed, as well as nightly concerts. Churches in the town will feature eclectic and hallowed displays full of all the recognizable nativity figurines but one, as they won’t gain their baby Jesus until Christmas night, per tradition. Pack your ice skates and visit the ice skating rink in François de Menthon square. Until the 24th, Father Christmas is installed in the “Santa’s Village” section of the chalets, where all the booths are painted white and feature handmade and unique gifts.

Dates: November 25 – January 6

3. Arras Christmas Market

This charming French city, midway between Paris and Brussels, might otherwise not be on your radar. But don’t underestimate Arras during Christmas time. The city has Flemish roots, meaning you can enjoy their famous, mouth-watering  gaufres , or Flemish waffles, which are the perfect treat for a winter day. The Arras Christmas market has an ice rink, street performers, and local food like  coeurs d’Arras,   small, orange colored heart-shaped cheeses with a pungent flavor. This is one of the best Christmas markets for enjoying the festive season, whether you come for the mulled wine, the Christmas carols, or the original gift ideas… or even to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve!

Dates: November 24 – December 30

4. Biarritz Christmas Market

For a Christmas market with the smoky accents of a Spanish border town, head to the surfer mecca of Biarritz, where lights everywhere turn the city into a fairyland. Until the first of the year this Basque Country town will feature outdoor markets with local specialities, like Bayonne ham or Piment d’Espelette, a special chili pepper from the region that is used a local specialty, an omelette made of peppers and tomatoes. The market will also have an ice rink and a lighted ferris wheel. Every night until early January, from 6-11 PM, the town comes alive with special light shows projected on the walls and facades of the buildings all over town.

Dates: Dates are flexible year to year. Most often, early December. Check local listings. 

5. Bordeaux Christmas Market

The Bordeaux Christmas market is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas markets in France. The wooden stalls lined up along the Allées de Tourny feature animatronic reindeer, eco-friendly Christmas decoration workshops, stilt walkers, face painting, acrobats, elves, and the opportunity to get your photo taken with Father Christmas. Local refreshments like aligot, bretzels, and roasted chestnuts will be available to warm your belly, and vegetarians will have no trouble finding delicious treats to eat. The market is also accessible to wheelchair users, though the concourse can get quite crowded close to Christmas.

Dates: November 24 – December 27

6. Collioure Christmas Market

This seaside and colorful town on the Southwestern border of Spain hugs the Meditterannean coast and has equal doses of French sophistication and Spanish intrigue. Here, Santa arrives to the delight of children on a zipline, or by jet ski, zooming up to the small local beach. Merry-go-rounds are festooned with lights and the chalet stalls in the market, set in the local Château Royal, boast majolica ceramics, roasted chestnuts, artisanal ice creams, cheeses, spices, handmade knives, local soaps, candles, and more. This is a trip for those who want a Christmas market in France with a warmer climate, and the possibility of a cool-but-not-freezing dip on a sunny winter day. Enjoy a glass of  vin chaud  while sitting under a palm tree instead of the standard Christmas tree, or take a lovely a beach stroll on Christmas morning. Packed with food and bars, this small, eccentric town with pink, blue, green, and yellow buildings is the place to go if you want a dose of fun and spirit (and also want to visit the place where Matisse got his Fauve-on).

Dates: Check local listings as dates vary. 

7. Colmar Christmas Market

If you’re looking for the best Christmas market in France, you want to head to Northeast to Alsace. Located in the eastern France, wedged between Switzerland, Germany and Luxembourg, the small Alsatian town of Colmar is one of the true capitals of Christmas celebration. Transport yourself into an old-time fairytale in this ancient, primarily pedestrian, city. The  vielle ville  is composed of German Renaissance-style architecture with its iconic half-timbered houses, and the town center turns into a week-long celebration for the Colmar Christmas market, illuminated with festive lighting to enhance the city’s heritage. Each window and door in town is adorned with holiday wreaths and Christmas decorations, as well as grand nativity scenes, making this truly one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France. Walk the city streets and don’t forget to indulge in mulled wine, sweet treats, and festive food while there.

Dates: November 23 – December 29

8. Lille Christmas Market

All the way at the tip of northern France is the young and bustling boomtown city of Lille, which shines with holiday spirit during the winter months. The festive atmosphere comes alive on its streets, decked out in Christmas lights and decorations, as well as 80 wooden  chalets , or market stalls. While most French Christmas markets support entirely local production, Lille’s Christmas market includes a United Nations of artisan products from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as the Americas. The market features a glorious ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, as well as many chalets dedicated to tasting the regions’ best foods and others which feature unique holiday activities.

Dates: November 22 – December 30

9. Lyon Christmas Market

Known the country of France over for its gastronomy, Lyon is also famous for one of the most spectacular light shows in all of France, known as the Fête des Lumières. Held annually in early December, this four day light extravaganza draws festive spirits from all over France.

Even if you miss the Fêe des Lumières, the Lyon Christmas market, located in the old city in the Place Carnot, is open until Christmas Eve, and boasts a hundred stalls full of food and artisanal crafts, like handmade shoes, silkscreened bags (Lyon is famous for its silk), knitted hats, and more. The foods from Lyon are not to be missed, like a  praluline , which is a local specialty of a brioche made with the Lyonnais specialty of pink sugared almonds. With vin chaud in hand, you can stuff yourself with oysters, cheeses, quenelles, roasted chestnuts, and pain d’épices, the French version of gingerbread. If you’re a foodie and happen to be in France at Christmas, this is your destination.

Dates: November 23 – December 24

10. Dijon Christmas Market

Just two hours north of Lyon by train is Dijon, where the Christmas markets at Place Darcy and Rue de la Liberté Place Darcy and Place du Théâtre will be kitted out with twinkling lights and decorative window displays, as will Porte Guillaume, the Église Notre-Dame, and the Palais des ducs et des États de Bourgogne. Enjoy the views from the 130-foot-tall Ferris wheel, take a spin on the merry-go-round at the Children’s Village, ooh and ahh at the stunning light shows of this this French Christmas market, or enjoy a luxe splurge at the city’s truffle market. If you’re there on December 24th, be sure to stop by at 6:30pm, when Santa “falls,” per tradition, from the Tour Philippe Le Bon, and rewards children with sweets after safely landing.

Dates: December 2 – January 7

11. Metz Christmas Market

One of the longest-standing Christmas markets in France is held in Metz, just East of the Lorraine forrest and south of the border from Luxembourg. There, at the Place Saint Louis, Place de la République, and Place de la Comédie, you can find some of the finest hand-made Christmas presents anywhere or taste the best gingerbread in France. There’s an ice rink, a colorful merry-go-round, and a magical “Sentiers des Lanternes” light corner. The Metz Christmas market also features entertainment for adults, with gourmet food available at the classic wooden chalets, where you can indulge in mulled wine and local specialties.

Dates: November 24 – December 30

12. Montbéliard Christmas Market

A bit South of Colmar is Montbéliard, a largely Swiss city located in France. Just 8 miles away from Switzerland, this little town is a lovely mix between the two cultures and traditions. Looking for a traditional Christmas market? The 160 lovely stalls full of authentic and high quality items in  Montbéliard  deliver just that, embracing the true atmosphere of Christmas. Walk the snowy streets or even engage in dance and singing of Christmas music in the town square.

Dates: November 25 – December 24

13. Paris Christmas Markets

It’s not surprising that Paris would have some of the best Christmas markets in France. And while there are plenty of enchanting Christmas markets in the French capital each year, the largest Christmas market in the city is the Tuileries Christmas market, which stretches all the way to Place de la Concorde. (It has replaced the famous Christmas market on the Champs-Élysées.) You can also try the popular Christmas markets by Notre-Dame or Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) in the city centre. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés marché also always brings in a local crowd, in a quaint and lovely atmosphere. You’ll be sure to get plenty of gift ideas at this French Christmas market. For more markets please check out  ParisInfo.com  as just about every neighborhood will put on its own particular odyssey and show at Christmas time.

Dates: Various (see  Paris Tourism website  for details)

14. Pérouges Christmas Market

Only 25 miles Northeast of Lyon (and included in our  15 Best Day Trips from Lyon ), Pérouges is a tiny village of only 100 year-round inhabitants. Kept immaculately preserved, clean and distinct in its vibe, Pérouges is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in all of France. (It’s actually on France’s list of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.”)

The old town of Pérouges is perched on a hill, with the Alps as a backdrop and has half-timbered houses. Hidden behind fortress walls, this medieval town has two entrance gates, cobblestoned streets, narrow alleys, secret byways, and Liberty Square, named for a towering Linden tree that was planted during the French Revolution.

This is one of the most magical places in all of France to experience a Christmas market. The old town comes alive in lights and old-fashioned nuance. In addition to the local delicacy of the sweet leavened lemon-flavored bread called the Galette de Pérouges, created in 1912 to keep people fed on Fridays during Lent, all of Pérouges comes alive before the holidays with market stalls full of artisans and local delicacies. Walk the cobblestoned streets and see the twinkling lights and candles in all the windows and sip a  vin chaud.

15. Reims Christmas Market

For those staying in central France, the Champagne city of Reims is the midpoint between Metz and Paris (1h30 away.)  Reims  has loads of history and is where most of France’s Kings were crowned at the regal Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims. The annual Reims Christmas market is set at the Place d’Erlon, facing the medieval cathedral, where 145 market stalls shine with twinkling lights and offer seasonal gifts. Street entertainers crowd the streets while some take a ride on the Ferris Wheel, Champagne in hand.

Dates: November 24 – December 24

16. Strasbourg Christmas Market

And while you’re in the East, Strasbourg is just slightly North of Colmar. Legend has it that the first ever (and definitely the most famous) Christmas market was first set in the city of  Strasbourg . It was 1570, then called the “Christkindelsmärik” (market of the Infant Jesus). Today it is known as the oldest Christmas market in Europe. The streets will be filled with over 300 wooden chalets filled with food, gifts and drinks as well as winter games and entertainment, including a Children’s Christmas Village. There are actually several Christmas markets here, many of them centered around the Place de la Cathédrale. The crown jewel of the market is a beauty of a Christmas tree, one of France’s tallest and most beautiful Christmas trees to date. Many people consider the Strasbourg Christmas market to be the best Christmas market in the entire country, if not the world, and when you see how the festive season transforms the city’s historic centre into a winter wonderland, you won’t be surprised.

17. Toulouse Christmas Market

Many of the best Christmas markets in France are in the North, but Toulouse offers a delightful option for those who would rather  not  freeze their butts off while ornament shopping. This southwest city hosts a Christmas market brimming with festive cheer, where locals dine on  aligot  (a cheesy potato dish that will threaten stop your heart), Spanish-style hot chocolate, and regional favorites like  foie gras . Shop for local salves, toys, cosmetics, and candles.

Dates: November 24 – December 26

Co-written by co-editors of Frenchly, Caitlin Shetterly and Cat Rickman.

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Journey of Doing

7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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Stockholm is yours to explore ttoday oon a guided tour.

WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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BEST France Christmas Markets to Visit in 2023 + Dates and Tips

The great Christmas markets in France  are one of the best places you and your family can visit during the festive season. France is home to some of the best Christmas markets in the world, with Christmas markets dotted all over the country.

France Christmas markets are a winter wonderland filled with festive treats, local crafts, and holiday spirit throughout the Christmas period.

Here, we’re going to take a look at some of the best Christmas markets in France and help you find your destination for this advent season. The list only covers some of the Christmas markets in France (the best ones!), so be ready for a world of festive adventure!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the  full disclosure   for further information.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Explore the France Christmas Markets

France has a long history of celebrating the festive period with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, dating back to the Middle Ages. Each shows Christmas cheer and festive spirit through twinkling lights, wooden chalets, nativity figurines, and artisan crafts that can’t be found anywhere else. So why France?

France Xmas Markets Have a Wide Variety

 If you’re looking for original gift ideas, the regional specialities in each area of France will offer you something unique this holiday season.

Traditional Blended with Modern

 Each year during the festive season in  Western Europe , France Xmas markets offer something a little different mixed with historical tradition.

World-Renowned Christmas Celebrations

  Whether in Paris, Strausberg, or elsewhere, every city in France boasts that they have the best Christmas market, most beautiful Christmas decorations, Christmas lights, and Christmas trees – and somehow, every one of them is correct in its own way.

The Perfect Winter Getaway

If you’re looking for something a little different to do with your family from mid-November to early January, the market stalls, French cuisine, fairy lights, and mulled wine will give you an experience you’ll never forget.

Best Christmas Markets in France in 2023

The Christmas markets dotted around France are some of the most beautiful Christmas markets you’ll find anywhere. It’s almost impossible to make an exhaustive list of France’s best Christmas markets, but we’ve picked out the cream of the crop to help you find the best Christmas market for your holiday season.

Strasbourg Christmas Market – Christkindelsmärik

2023 Opening Dates:  24th November to 24th December

Strasbourg is known as the ‘capital of Christmas’, and there you’ll find one of the largest Christmas markets in the world with an unmatchable festive atmosphere. 

In Strasbourg, France, Christmas is a pretty big deal! Christkindelsmärik (meaning ‘market of the infant Jesus’) is the oldest Christmas market in Europe, going back to the Middle Ages when it opened in 1570! 

The whole city comes alive with Christmas lights, glorious garlands, and other decorations.

Strasbourg at Christmas is illuminated more than most cities in Europe! Over 300 market stalls in wooden chalets offer everything from mulled wine to homemade cookies. At the centre of it all is a giant Christmas tree that shines bright with the city’s lights.

The market sprawls across the city’s historic centre, completely taking over the town centre and making Strasbourg live up to its name. There’s a reason this famous Christmas market attracts tourists and locals alike year after year.

There are plenty of places to stay if you want to experience the Strasbourg Christmas market in 2023. Some of our family hotel recommendations include:

• Money saver:  Odalys City Strasbourg Green Marsh
• Average price:  Hotel Kaijoo by HappyCulture
• Splashing out:  Hôtel & Spa Le Bouclier D’or

Colmar Christmas Market – La Magie de Noël

2023 Opening Dates:  23th November – 29th December

The main Colmar, France, Christmas market refers to itself as the soul of Christmas. It’s one of the Christmas markets in France that focuses on the magic of the Christmas season, as its name, La Magie de Noël, implies!

The whole city centre of Colmar is closed off to traffic for the Colmar Christmas market (actually made up of six markets), meaning this historic town becomes more than just a Christmas market: it’s a Christmas wonderland made up of an array of the best Christmas markets in France.

Across its many stalls, you’ll find festive food, Christmas trees, hot chocolate, and more. There’s also a Gourmet market where you can buy fancy food like foie gras if you’re feeling like experiencing a culinary adventure this advent season!

There’s a merry-go-round and a sparkling Ferris wheel for the kids to get a great view of the whole city. The Ferris wheel is great during the day, but when it lights up in the dark, it becomes a transport to a new world.

Places to stay in Colmar include:

• Money saver:  ColmarAppart Vauban
• Average price:  Apartments Center Colmar
• Splashing out:  Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal – Les Collectionneurs

Nice France Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  1st December – 1st January

The Nice Christmas market is known for its massive Ferris wheel that takes pride of place over what could be argued to be the best Christmas market in Southern France. The beautiful wooden chalets that are famous in markets in France are here, too, filled with delights.

At this market, you’ll find a breathtaking ice skating rink next to the Three Graces fountain, a stunning city landmark. This market opens in early December and goes through Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

While you admire the Christmas tree and sip on your mulled wine, the nativity scenes and gift ideas combined with the warmer atmosphere of Southern France combine to make something truly special this Christmas.

Looking for somewhere to stay in the old town to visit this Christmas market in France? We recommend:

• Money saver:  Hotel Saint Gothard
• Average price:  Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel
• Splashing out:  Cours Saleya

Amiens France Christmas Market – Marché de Noël d’Amiens

2023 Opening Dates:  24th November – 31st December

For those who prefer a Christmas market in Northern France, the Marché de Noël d’Amie is a popular Christmas market for families and people of all ages. 

It’s one of the newer Christmas markets in France, first opened in 1997, but that doesn’t make it less amazing!

This Christmas market in France focuses on craftmanship and, along with the traditional mulled wine and other Christmas goodies, you’ll find unique stalls here from when the market opens in mid-November.

Flower arranging is a very popular craft in Amiens, and Christmas flower displays are stunning to see. You’ll find fresh vegetables, handcrafted decorations, and more in this astounding and unique Christmas market in France!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in this old town, we suggest:

• Money saver:  White House Dhavernas
• Average price:  Le Cottage des Hortillonnages
• Splashing out:  Le Majestic Cathédrale

Paris Avenue des Champs-Elysées Christmas market

2023 Opening Dates:  November 20th – December 26th

Paris is full of Christmas markets, but the Avenue des Champs-Elysées Christmas market is the largest Christmas market in the French capital.

As well as being the largest Christmas market in Paris (though not in France), it is considered one of the greatest tourist spots under the Eiffel Tower. Filled with nativity scenes and Christmas decorations and sprawling across Paris, it’s the pinnacle of Paris Christmas markets.

Christmas markets in France under the Eiffel Tower are a breathtaking discovery, filled with mulled wine, delicious food, and more. 

Explore the place de la Concorde and Paris’s Latin quarter while enjoying the Champs-Elysées market stalls and other Paris Christmas markets.

It’s also one of the longest-running Christmas markets in France, going from mid-November to mid-January. Just bear in mind that Paris can get expensive!

Places to stay include:

• Money saver:  Sofitel Paris Le Faubourg
• Average price:  Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel
• Splashing out:  Hotel Archetype Etoile

Lille Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  22nd November to 31st December

Lille is a charming city in the north of France, very near the border with Germany, giving it a different atmosphere than some of the other options that many decide upon when visiting France.

The Lille Christmas market is smaller than many of the others in Europe, but from its Christmas tree decorations to its food and drink, this Christmas market is the most charming Christmas market in France!

It’s a great location for travellers from the UK, who can get the Eurostar train there in around an hour and a half, and what you’ll find is a magical Christmas experience. The Christmas market is a gastronomical delight, filled with French delicacies galore.

The market surrounds shops, crossing through the Place Rihour and other important areas, meaning that you can visit the Christmas market and explore other shops, restaurants, and more!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Lille, we suggest:

• Money saver:  Première Classe Lille Centre
• Average price:  Holiday Inn Express Lille Centre
• Splashing out:  Grand Hotel Bellevue

Reims Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  November 24 to December 24

Reims in northeastern France is the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, which means that the regional specialities you’ll find at the Christmas market in Reims include a champagne bar!

Nearly 150 chalets decorate the streets of Reims with illuminations, fairy lights, food, drinks, events, and so much more. Just 45 mins from Paris, the Reims market takes place under the gaze of the Reims Notre-Dame cathedral, an important piece of architecture and history.

Not only that, but the Ferris wheel will take you above the city to spy all of the beautiful lights below – an amazing place to enjoy a glass of champagne at the end of the night!

Looking for somewhere to stay in Reims while attending the Christmas market? Try:

• Money saver:  Le Charmant d’Erlon
• Average price:  Hôtel des Arcades
• Splashing out:  Les 7 Anges – Cathédrale de Reims

Bordeaux Christmas Markets – Main market and Darwin

2023 Opening Dates: TBC

The main Bordeaux Christmas market is one of the most exciting tourist events of the year. Shopping during the day transforms into breathtaking sights at night when the market lights up with brilliant decorations.

Over 150 vendors sell their wares at this market, which is a huge one in southwest France. You’ll find local specialities (including fine Bordeaux wine!) as well as clothes, decorations, jewellery, toys, and other handcrafted regional products.

You can also find the Darwin market, an alternative Christmas market quickly becoming popular. It’s a very artsy take on the traditional Christmas market, including books, sports equipment, art, and more! However, it only runs for a couple of days, so take advantage of it.

Some great places to stay in Bordeaux include:

• Money saver:  Novotel Bordeaux Centre Ville
• Average price:  Le Palais Gallien
• Splashing out:  Le Boutique Hotel & Spa

Annecy Christmas Markets – Marché de Noël du Vieil Annecy (Old Annecy Christmas Market), Village des Alpes, Village des Artisans.

2023 Opening Dates:  November 18th – January 1st

The Old Annecy market is the most traditional of the three main markets in Annecy, with around eighty stalls all arranged around the St. François-de-Sales church in the Old Town of the city.

At the Village des Alpes, you’ll really get to experience the sights of the Alps in this region, including skating around on an open-air rink right under the breathtaking views of the mountains.

Finally, the Village des Artisans is a small market that focuses on, well, artisans – crafts made by about ten local artists that can’t be found anywhere else. Annecy also sometimes includes ‘guests of honour in their markets to add international excitement!

For a great place to stay in Annecy, try:

• Money saver:  La Vie en Rose
• Average price:  L’appartement d’Anna
• Splashing out:  Novotel Annecy Centre Atria

Calais France Christmas Market – Calais Christmas Village

2023 Opening Dates:  26th November – 4th January

Calais adores Christmas! The entire city centre transforms into a Christmas village through the latter part of the year, with Christmas stalls, food, drink, lights, and all the classic staples of a Christmas market in France.

On top of that, you’ll find the annual Christmas parade, many events like dancing, circus performances, the Town Hall’s Magic Forest, special events for children, Christmas carolling concerts, and even more.

Calais Christmas village also features a World of Toys, which includes a famous indoor skating rink for everyone to enjoy.

Some great places to stay in Calais include:

• Money saver:  Les paddocks du dock I – Appart
• Average price:  Holiday Inn Calais
• Splashing out:  Hotel Meurice

Lyon Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  23rd November – 24th December

Lyon’s Christmas market at Place Carnot is legendary, with a big wheel, a giant holiday tree, and galore lights and stalls. You’ll find a different handcrafted item at each chalet, whether it’s food, decorations, or gifts.

There are over 140 wooden stalls, and the market decor is magical. Within it, you’ll almost feel like you’ve stepped into a snow,y festive fairytale!

Not only that, but if you arrive between the 8th and 11th of December, you’ll be able to experience the annual  Fête des Lumières , the Festival of Lights, which is full of beautiful masterpieces from around the globe.

In Lyon, we recommend staying at:

• Money saver:  HAMAC Suites Lyon Ainay
• Average price:  MiHotel Gailleton
• Splashing out:  InterContinental Lyon, Hotel Dieu

Arras Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  24th November to 30th December 

In Arras, you’ll find the enormous advent market north of Paris, given its special atmosphere due to the traditional Flemish structures you’ll find all around the city. The gold-topped houses with snow attached look like their very own decorations.

There are many rides for kids (and adults!) at the market, including a big wheel, sledge slide, carousels, ice skating rink, and more. You can also try your hand at face painting or creating some special Christmas crafts!

On top of all that, the friendly atmosphere of Northern France combines with crisp white wines, local sweets and savouries, and the kinds of mouthwatering meals and treats you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Arras? Try:

• Money saver:  Le Lion d’Or
• Average price:  Grand Place Hôtel: Boutique et Appart’hôtel
• Splashing out:  Hôtel Les Trois Luppars

Toulouse Christmas Market – Christmas Village

2023 Opening Dates:  November 25th – December 24th

Starting at the Place du Capitole, you’ll experience beautiful fir-lined paths in this brightly-lit village. Traditional gifts, foods, drinks, and jewellery, not to mention toys, are sold across the many dozens of wooden chalets.

You’ll find all sorts of special things to eat and drink, from mulled wine and churros to more local sweets and savouries. 

There are also specific artisan chalets. Remember a visit from Santa to make things complete!

The most special thing about this market is that it is highly focused on accessibility: in Toulouse, it’s a Christmas village for everyone.

Some options to stay in Toulouse include:

• Money saver:  Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges
• Average price:  Citadines Wilson Toulouse
• Splashing out:  Grand Hotel de l’Opera

Mulhouse Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates:  November 24th – December 27th

Mulhouse is the land of textiles, and this comes into play in this city’s unique take on the Christmas market. Stunning decorative fabrics cover everything from the chalets to the streets, and you can purchase your own clothing or materials too!

The festive decorations covering the Mulhouse market are unlike anywhere else, brightening the French night sky with sparkling illumination.

There are also a number of shows and events, like nativity scenes from around the world, Christmas crafts and games for children, a Christmas treasure hunt, fabric workshops, and so much more to discover!

While staying in Mulhouse, we recommend the following:

• Money saver:  Gîte des Victoires
• Average price:  Brit Hotel Mulhouse Centre
• Splashing out:  Best Western Mulhouse Salvator Centre

Alsace France Christmas Markets – the 7  Pays de Noël  (Christmas Lands)

2023 Opening Dates:  23rd Nivember – 29th December

The Alsace region loves Christmas, and almost every little town and village have its own Christmas markets in this part of France! It’s a cultural region of its own near the German and Swiss borders north of the Rhine.

Let’s take a look at the seven official ‘Christmas lands’ declared by the tourist board in Alsace and how each has its own twist on the Christmas market.

These regions go from the north of Alsace to the south, and each has a title! These are:

• The Land of Christmas Mysteries ( Le Pays des Mystères de Noël ). This is the very north of Alcase. Places include Haguenau and Wissembourg.
• The Land of Christmas Lights   ( Le Pays des Lumières de Noël ). Christmas markets in this area focus on characters such as Saint Nicholas, the angel known as Christkindl (Christ child), and more. Here you’ll find Saverne in the northeast of the region.
• The Land of Christmas Flavours ( Le Pays des Saveurs de Noël ) This region includes the oldest Christmas market, the Christkindelsmärik in Strasbourg. All of the markets in this region have a heavy emphasis on Christmas foods and flavours.
• The Land of Christmas Trees ( Le Pays du Sapin de Noël ) These decoration-heavy Christmas markets have one city to thank for this being their claim to fame. This land includes Sélestat, the first documented place where Christmas trees were decorated worldwide!
• The Land of Christmas Stars ( Le Pays des Étoiles de Noël ) is one of the biggest Alsatian Christmas lands, including Colmar, Riquewihr, Éguisheim, and Kaysersberg.
• The Land of Christmas Eve/Christmas Vigils ( Le Pays des Veillées de Noël)  is a tiny region encircled by Land 5. It is made up of the open-air museum village of the Écomusée d’Alsace.
• The Land of Christmas Carols and Textiles/Cloths ( Le Pays des Chants et des Étoffes de Noël ). The Christmas market in Mulhouse is the biggest of these, and Altkirch is another. Each focuses on the textiles and songs tied to the history of Christmas in the region.

Montpellier’s Saint Roch Christmas Market

2023 Opening Dates : December 2nd – December 30th

Located in the heart of the historic city of Montpellier, the Saint Roch Christmas Market is a dazzling blend of traditional festivities and modern charm. Montpellier, renowned for its rich history and architectural wonders, becomes even more enchanting during the winter months with the magic of Saint Roch.

As you stroll through the wooden chalets, you’ll discover a plethora of handcrafted items, regional delicacies, and unique gifts. The air is filled with the tempting aromas of freshly baked pastries, roasted chestnuts, and spiced mulled wine.

The market isn’t just about shopping. With an array of activities tailored for visitors of all ages, it promises endless fun. Children can enjoy the charming carousel or engage in workshops that introduce them to traditional crafts.

As the sun sets, Montpellier’s Saint Roch Christmas Market transforms into an illuminated wonderland. Thousands of fairy lights shimmer, casting a soft glow over the historic squares and narrow alleys of Montpellier.

By staying in the heart of Montpellier, you can explore not just the Christmas market but also the city’s historic landmarks, museums, and local eateries. Some recommended stays include:

• Money saver : Kyriad Hotel Montpellier Centre Antigone
• Average price : Mercure Montpellier Centre Antigone
• Splashing out : Courtyard by Marriott Montpellier

Tips for Visiting the France Christmas Markets

Dress warmly.

When visiting the French Christmas markets, always prioritize your comfort. Even though Southern France can offer milder temperatures, as the sun sets, the chilly air of winter nights can be felt.

This is particularly true if you’re planning on exploring the markets in Northern France, where it can get quite cold.

So, layering is the key. Wear thermal undershirts, cozy sweaters, and always bring along a warm scarf, hat, and gloves. This will ensure that you’re able to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the discomfort of the cold.

Try Local Delicacies

One of the true joys of visiting a Christmas market in France is the chance to indulge in regional culinary specialties. Each market offers a unique blend of flavors, from warming cups of spiced wine to delicious pastries like “pain d’épices” (gingerbread) and “kouglof” (a type of brioche).

While many stalls at the Christmas markets are modernized to accept credit or debit cards, there are still some that operate on a cash-only basis.

Go Early for Best Selection

The early bird catches the worm, and this adage holds true when visiting French Christmas markets. If you’re someone who’s looking for unique, handcrafted gifts, artisanal treats, or limited-edition festive items, it’s advisable to head to the markets early in the day.

Not only will you get first dibs on the best products, but you’ll also avoid the larger afternoon crowds, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience.

Stay Nearby

To truly immerse yourself in the festive spirit, consider booking accommodation close to the Christmas market you’re visiting. By staying nearby, you have the flexibility to visit the market at different times of the day, be it the early morning serenity or the enchanting twilight hours.

It’s particularly helpful if you’re traveling with children, as you can easily retreat to your hotel for breaks, or to drop off shopping bags, before heading back for more festive fun.

Plus, nothing beats the convenience of a short walk back to a cozy bed after a long day of exploring.

France Christmas Markets FAQs

The best French Christmas market is subjective as it depends on personal preferences. However, Strasbourg is often called the “Capital of Christmas” and its market, Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest and most famous, making it a top contender for the title.

The most popular Christmas markets in France include: Strasbourg Christmas Market – Christkindelsmärik Colmar Christmas Market – La Magie de Noël Lille Christmas Market in Place Rihour Montpellier’s Saint Roch Christmas Market Nice France Christmas Market.

Colmar is often considered the most beautiful Christmas village in France. With its timber-framed houses, canals, and festive decorations, the town transforms into a fairytale setting during the Christmas season.

The biggest Christmas market in France is located in Strasbourg. Known as Christkindelsmärik, it boasts over 300 stalls and has been a festive tradition since 1570.

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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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15 Fabulous French Christmas Markets In France (The Real France)

Nothing captures the magic of the end of year festivities better than a magical European Christmas market. Here are 15 standout French Christmas markets in France, including the biggest, oldest and off the beaten track markets that rival the bigger cities.

Here are 15 standout French Christmas markets in France , including the biggest, oldest and off-the-beaten-track Christmas markets in France that rival the bigger cities. I wanted my list of French Christmas markets in France to be a little different than just the best, biggest or most beautiful ones across France; although a few of those are certainly on this list.

I put together a list that represents the wide variety of Christmas markets you can find across France.

From the traditional Alsacian markets in the east, which are closer to German Christmas markets, to Provencal markets and French Riviera ( Côte d’Azur ) markets on the Mediterranean coastline. And let’s not forget about the lesser-known Christmas markets that don’t make it to anyone’s top 10 lists and tourists rarely visit but locals flock to. 

@culturezvous 🎄🎅🏻 Noël dans le Grand Est 😍 • #xmas2021 #noel #christmas #strasbourg #mulhouse #selestat #france #voyage #travel ♬ Let it Snow Let it Snow – Christmas Songs

You might be interested in discovering what types of food you can eat at a French Christmas market in France.

French Christmas Markets In France

Something magical happens across Northern Europe,  especially Germany, from late November to early January, during advent.

Advent is the four Sundays before Christmas day (or sometimes from the 1st of December to Christmas Day!

Rows of rustic wooden chalets (stalls) decked out in colourful decorations and twinkly lights line up side by side on public squares. Each chalet is brimming with local produce, handmade figurines, wooden toys and other gifts and goodies ready to fill your shopping bags.

The aroma of roasted chestnuts, sweet confectionaries, mouth-watering bratwurst and other savoury foods waft through the air as you wander through the bustling rows of illuminated chalets. 

The sound of children laughing and festive music fills the night air…

You’re at a Christmas market in France “ Marché de noël or somewhere in Europe, and you can’t help but feel excited and giddy unless you’re the Grinch.

Jump to section ↓

The First Christmas markets were called December markets.

Depending on who you talk to, some believe that the precursor to Christmas markets is a “December Market,” specifically the one in Vienna ( Vienna’s Dezembermarkt), which dates back to around 1296.

December markets were special winter markets for the townspeople to stock up on food and supplies to get them through the winter, often open for only a few days.

The first Christmas market probably originated in Munich, Germany, around 1310. From there, Christmas Markets started popping up on cobblestoned town squares across Europe, including France, which boasts the second-most number of Christmas markets in all of Europe.

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1) Strasbourg Christmas Market: (The first and oldest one in France)

Marché de Noël de Strasbourg, Bas-Rhin

No Christmas market list would be complete without including the one in Strasbourg, where France’s first Christmas market started it all.

Located in the Alsace region of north-eastern France on the Rhine River, is Strasbourg which borders Germany and Switzerland.

For centuries, control over this historical region has alternated between Germany and France. The area reflects a mix of those cultures, including the traditional Christmas market, also known as Christkindelsmärik (Alsatian dialect “Market of the Christ Child”).

In addition to being over 450 years old, the oldest in France, it’s also one of the biggest in Europe. In 1992, the deputy mayor dubbed Strasbourg city “The Christmas capital,” and the name has stuck.  There are 11 Christmas markets in different squares throughout the city and some 300 stalls. There are over 500 scheduled events, ice skating, lights, games, parades, and so much more. If you ever plan on visiting this market, make sure to book your hotels or Airbnb well in advance. It receives over 2 million visitors, making it one of the most visited and most well known in France.

https://noel.strasbourg.eu

If you’re planning a trip to Europe or France or a Christmas market break, consider getting a Eurail pass. A pass for non-European train travellers. The global pass allows you to travel through multiple countries , while a one country pass such as the Eurail France Pass allows you to travel by train throughout France for a set amount of time at a discount. 

2) Metz Market: (2nd Oldest and biggest)

Marché de Noël Metz

If the Strasbourg Christmas market is the BIGGEST and OLDEST French Christmas market in France, then the Metz Christmas market would be the second. Located approximately one and a half hours northeast of Strasbourg, it’s an easy day trip.

Like Strasbourg, it attracts roughly 2 million visitors each year, making it another famous French Christmas market break.

3) Reims Christmas Market: (Day trip from Paris)

Marché de Noël de Reims

If you’re looking for a short day trip from Paris during December, the Reims Christmas market is less than one hour by TGV from the city of lights. Over 140 stalls sell local products, food and gifts. The city also does a spectacular light show on the Cathedral. It’s France’s third most visited market, attracting roughly 1.8 million visitors each year.

www.reims-tourisme.com

4) Colmar Christmas Market: (Birthplace of Statue of Liberty creator)

Marché de Noël de Colmar

Not far from France’s oldest French Christmas market in Strasbourg is Colmar, the birthplace of Bartholdi (the created the Statue of Liberty) . Roughly 80 chalets await you on cobblestone streets among half-timbered houses.  You can visit its six different themed Christmas markets, which are more like mini-villages, including one dedicated to food and another for children.

Each year roughly 1.5 to 1.8 million people visit this Christmas market, mainly from France and other European cities.

Colmar Christmas Market

5) Kaysersberg Christmas Market: (Is this the most authentic?)

Marché de Noël de Kaysersberg

12 km from the Colmar train station is another medieval town that turns into a veritable Christmas Village. The streets are decked out with festive lights, and touches of authentic Alsatian Christmas traditions are everywhere. Christmas market connoisseurs and the city itself claim it’s T HE MOST AUTHENTIC  Christmas market in France.

There are charming wooden stalls and city-approved artisans from all walks of life, floral art, pottery, blown glass, wooden toys, fabric, food, Christmas decorations and, of course, local Alsatian specialties. Make sure to try Bredele, biscuits or small cakes traditionally baked in Alsace and Moselle, especially during the Christmas period.

Kaysersberg Christmas Market

6) Riquewihr Market: (The medieval fairytale city)

Marché de Noël de Riquewihr

Officially one of France’s most beautiful villages, Riquewihr’s ( pronounced Reek-weer in French, or Rike-veeah in German/Alsatian ) has a fairy tale atmosphere all year round that has remained virtually unchanged since the 1600s. It’s no wonder Disney used it as one of the inspirations for Belle’s hometown from  Beauty and the Beast.  All this to say, it’s the ideal location for a fairy tale winter wonderland Christmas market.

Ribeauville-riquewihr Christmas market

7) Tiffauges Christmas market: (In a medieval Castle)

Marché de Noël au château de Tiffauges en Vendée

The Christmas market in Tiffauges might be small compared to some of the others. Still, this French Christmas market is set inside the Château de Tiffauges, a medieval castle situated in the Vendee department. The castle is also known as Bluebeard’s castle (chateau de Barbe-Bleue), named after its most famous resident and notorious murderer. More than 60 exhibitors and artisans await you within the castle walls.

Tiffauges Castle Christmas Market

8) Licques Market: (And the Turkey parade)

Marché de Noël au château de Licques

Like other French Christmas markets across France, artisans sell their wares in adorable chalets at the Christmas market in Licques. However, what sets the Licques Christmas market apart from the others is the turkey Festival (Fête de la dinde), where turkeys, capons and pintade (guinea fowls) are in the spotlight for a few days during the Christmas market. Highlights include a parade of turkeys in the streets, animated meals, accordion music, mechanical turkeys and the traditional Sunday morning procession of turkeys.

9) Lyon Christmas Market: (Lights, lights, lights)

Marché de Noël de Lyon

There are two magical Christmas markets in Lyon. The one at Carnot Place hosts more than 140 chalets, some of which are run by artisans worldwide: Canadians, Russia, Poland etc. With roughly 30 chalets, the second one is a covered Christmas market at Place de la Croix-Rousse.  Something not to miss is the festival of lights in Lyon (a Fête des Lumiere’s). For four nights in December, a variety of artists light up buildings, streets, squares and parks to music all over the city. There are usually over 40 light installations. The atmosphere is electric and crowded.

Lyon Christmas Market

10) Lille Christmas Market: (Are you still in France?)

Marché de Noël de Lille

In the north of France, one hour from Paris, 35 minutes from Belgium and 2 hours from London is Lille. With strong Flemish influences and more beer drinkers than wine drinkers, some say it’s more like visiting Belgium than France. The main square is transformed into a winter wonderland where some 100 wooden chalets attract 900K visitors every year.

Lille Christmas Market

11) Montbéliard Christmas Market: (Famous for it’s Christmas lights)

Marché de Noël de Montbéliard

Montbéliard, a picturesque city in France’s eastern Franche-Comté region near Alsace’s border, attracts more than 500K visitors each year to its Christmas market. They come not only to eat local treats or buy gifts made by the carefully selected craftsmen who occupy the 160 chalets but to see “les Lumières de Noël” which means Christmas lights. As the name implies, the market is famous for its “Christmas lights,” illuminating every street corner.

Montbéliard Christmas Market

12) Nice Christmas Market: (The French Riviera)

Marché de Noël au château de Nice

Photo/ Nice Christmas market www.AnnieAndre.com

Nice France, considered one of the main cities of the French Riviera, usually holds its Christmas market in Place Massena, a large open square. Besides the numerous chalets selling gifts and food, there is a large Ferris wheel, an ice rink and various games for the children. Socca is a popular dish served in the area and at many French Christmas markets in the south. Socca is best described as a thick unleavened chickpea-type crepe served with salt and pepper.

12) La Garde Christmas Market: (Your average everyday market)

Marché de Noël au château de La Garde

You probably won’t see anyone mention the Christmas market in La Garde (de Toulon) in the Provence Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of south-eastern France. But I wanted to mention it because it holds a special place in my heart. It’s not a famous or extravagant French Christmas market like the one in Strasbourg. It won’t make the list of most beautiful French markets either. It’s representative of the everyday Christmas market that makes up most French Christmas markets across France. Still charming, still magical. It attracts mainly locals from the surrounding cities and towns. Not tourists from outside France come here.

La Garde is also where our family lived for four years and where we first experienced the magic of a small-town Christmas market.

La Garde website

14) Montpellier Christmas Market: (Simple but charming)

Marché de Noël au château de Montpellier

The Montpellier Christmas market in France’s southern region is called “Les Hivernales,” which means “The Winter.” Like the Christmas market in La Garde, which is also called “Les Hivernales,” it also holds a special place in my heart. I’ve lived in Montpellier since 2016, so we’ve experienced this market for a few years now.

It’s not the most beautiful or the most stunning market, but it does have its charm. The market is spread across place de la Comedie and Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, the epicentre of Montpellier. There are roughly 170 different chalets along the treelined esplanade pedestrian area with two large fountains. In addition to shopping, there’s ice skating, a Ferris wheel (new in 2019, a carousel and a Christmas tree ride.  Try some Aligot: a local dish made from cheese blended into mashed potatoes garlic, often served with sausage. “Miam,” That’s French for YUM.

Montpellier Christmas Market

15+) Paris Christmas Markets: (Too many to choose from)

Marché Noel de la Défense

I debated whether to include any Paris Christmas markets because so many people write about them. I won’t list them all here because there are dozens of Christmas markets in Paris. The largest being the Défense Christmas market with over 350 wooden chalets. The one nearest the Eiffel tower is at the Trocadero. It’s Paris; you’ll love them.

Paris de La Défense Christmas Market

French Christmas markets in France: You can’t go wrong

This is just a small sampling of all the Christmas markets that exist in France. No matter where you find yourself during December in France, a French Christmas market is not far and worth a visit, big or small.

This list is growing. I’ll add more as I visit more markets.

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Best Christmas Markets in France

Visiting a Christmas market in France is a magical experience. Twinkling lights wind around tree branches shimmering in shades of gold and silver, and bells ring out from Gothic-style churches as carolers sing joyful hymns.

In city squares, wooden chalets manned by artisans sell everything from hand-carved toys to candles and glassware, while purveyors of delicious food serve melt-in-the-mouth biscuits, roasted chestnuts and warming cups of vin chaud (mulled wine) or chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) to passers-by.

French Xmas Markets are easy to reach from many regions in Europe by road, air or rail, so if you fancy spending time between late November to early January being immersed in festive frivolities with a French flair, we’ve rounded up the very best French Christmas markets (marchés de Noël) to inspire your travels.

Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 1570s. The market infuses a unique blend of French, German and Swiss traditions, thanks to its border location in the Alsace region (now called Grand Est).

The heart of Strasbourg Christmas market is Place Kléber. The main square, overlooked by grand gabled houses, boasts a 30-metre-tall Christmas tree adorned with sparkling lights and festive decorations.

On Place Broglie, near Strasbourg’s Opera House, the Christkindelsmarik, encompasses age-old traditions with nativity scenes, and on Place du Chateau, half-timbered houses near Notre Dame Cathedral are decorated with bears and festive wreaths curating a picture-postcard scene.

Food connoisseurs can head for Place du Marche-des-Poissons to sample typical Alsatian bredele cakes or Place des Meuniers where small local producers sell truffles, cookies and cheeses.

If travelling to Strasbourg’s Christmas markets with children, take in a workshop at the Advent Village in Petite France, pop into the gingerbread bakery or enjoy a boat ride or sightseeing train tour to explore different festive locations in the city.

Strasbourg Christmas Market Dates: 24 November – 24 December 2023. Official Site .

Although western France isn’t well-known for its traditional Christmas markets, the one held in Nantes each year shines brightly on the festive calendar for many.

Nantes offers four weeks of festive fun, and there are two markets held in the city simultaneously from the end of November until Christmas Eve.

During the Nantes Christmas Market, city streets around Place du Commerce and Place Royale are punctuated with over 100 wooden chalets selling products ranging from handmade decorations to jewellery, wooden toys and leather items, making it the perfect place to browse for gifts and souvenirs.

Read more about the Nantes Christmas Markets here.

Christmas tunes are played every evening, as carousel horses bob up and down, and adults can sample food and drink items from Loire Valley producers while kids visit Santa’s weekend house.

The second market in Nantes showcases artisan wares from around 70 local businesses, with stalls focusing on different themes each week from fashion to culture and gastronomy.

Nantes Christmas Market Dates: 23 November – 30 December 2023. Official Site .

Bordeaux transforms into a winter wonderland every December as city streets are adorned with fairy lights and holly berries, and shop fronts are sprinkled with snowflakes and miniature Père Noëls.

Head for Allees de Tourny, the first of three city markets – a space where 150 pavilions sell hand-blown glass, potteries, artisan perfumes and linens. Events, light shows and workshops are held for children and there’s always an opportunity to meet Santa Claus as he walks past the stalls ringing his bell. Sample some of the region’s finest wines or get fully into the festive spirit at a candlelight concert.

Read also: Best Day Trips from Bordeaux

Environmentally conscious shoppers can head for Darwin Xmas Market on the right bank of the Garonne River. Here, stalls sell everything from organic chocolate and skincare products to accessories and artwork by local creators.

Alternatively, experience a festive market with a difference on the city’s flagship IBOAT. Once a ferry connecting Bordeaux to offshore islands, the wooden boat becomes a floating market which is open during the first weekend in December.

Bordeaux Christmas Market Dates: 24 November – 25 December 2023. Official Site .

The French Capital, Paris , is often regarded as the best place to spend Christmas in France and every year over 20 festive markets spring up in neighbourhoods around the city.

A popular choice for family fun is ‘La Magie de Noël’ stationed at Tuileries Gardens near the Champs Élysées and Louvre Museum. It attracts over 13 million visitors a year with fairground rides, ice rinks, champagne bars and artisan stalls.

Undoubtedly, one of the prettiest and most romantic Parisian Christmas markets is held opposite Notre Dame Cathedral on the riverbank at Quai de Montebello in the Latin Quarter. Sip a glass of mulled wine and nibble on roasted chestnuts as live music plays with the famous cathedral as your backdrop.

For the best views of Paris, walk along the cobbled streets of Montmartre beneath Sacré-Cœur Basilica. A large Christmas tree stands here, and stalls feature wares from local designers, while kiosks serve sautéed mushrooms and cheesy raclette.

The best festive light show, (except for the Eiffel Tower of course) is held at Hôtel de Ville. The neo-Renaissance structure is illuminated in icy shades of blue with falling snowflakes, plus, if you’re travelling to Paris with kids , there’s an enchanted forest, Santa visits, a climbing wall, and a luge in the square for hours of family entertainment!

La Magie de Noel dates: 18 November 23 – 7 January 2024 Notre Dame Cathedral Christmas Market dates: 8 – 25 December 2023 Hotel de Ville Christmas Market dates: 1 – 30th December 2023

Colmar is magical at any time of year, but at Christmas, the fairy tale ambience elevates to another level. The Alsatian medieval town is peppered with cobbled streets, decadent storefronts, hidden museums and wine cellars.

The city’s canals are lined with half-timber houses decked in Christmas decorations and ornaments, and on winter evenings, choirs sing hymns on boats festooned with twinkling lights.

Winter scenes and Advent calendars are projected in lights onto houses and pop-up chalets across six French Christmas villages cater to all with one-of-a-kind gifts, arts and crafts, jewellery and food.

Visit Place de Dominicains, admiring its 14th-century church and stained-glass window, before browsing 60 wooden stalls, or pop inside Koifhus market to warm up and admire artisan crafts indoors.

In Place de la Cathédrale and Place Jeanne d’Arc, the finest Alsatian cuisine is on offer at the gourmet market. Iced gingerbread hearts hang from silk ribbons and vendors serve truffle risotto, soups, warming stews and spice-infused drinks to shoppers. For a sweet treat, try Alsace’s most famous bell-shaped cake, the Kugelhopf, dipped in sugar and laced with nuts.

If travelling with children, the pretty canal-side district of Petite Venise has a kid’s area with an open-air theatre, Christmas decoration contests, events and an illuminated ice rink.

Colmar Christmas Market dates: Late November – 31 December 2023. Official Site .

Winter in Lyon often sees the city lightly dusted in snow, which sets the scene beautifully for the popular Christmas markets. Around 140 canopied wooden chalets huddle the streets, primarily centred around Place Carnot (conveniently located right next to Lyon’s main bus terminal).

An excellent place to sample the city’s famed foodie scene, you’ll find local Lyonnaise delicacies aplenty to keep you warm and satiated. Wander the stalls as you’re serenaded by choirs singing Christmas carols, and browse the beautiful stalls filled with artisan crafts, glistening ornaments, and hand-knitted winter wear.

Read also: Lyon in Winter / Best Day Trips from Lyon

But markets aside, perhaps the most important event on the Christmas calendar is the Festival of Lights ( Fête des Lumières ). The tradition dates back to 1852 when the locals would burn candles on their windowsills to celebrate the inauguration of the Virgin Mary statue at the Basilica of Fourvière.

These days, artists from around the globe travel to Lyon to showcase their works in the form of light installations, projections, and performances. The spectacle, which lasts around 4 days, transforms the city into a contemporary canvas and draws in millions of visitors each year in early December to witness its beauty.

Lyon Christmas Market dates: 23 November – 24 December 2023

Less than an hour by TGV train from Paris, the city of Reims is a magical place to visit during the festive season. City streets and trees are draped with luminous fairy lights as nativity scenes tell stories of Christmas from days of old.

As Reims is the gateway to Champagne country , swap mulled wine for a glass of bubbly while browsing almost 140 stalls, at the third-largest Christmas market in France.

There are gourmet food emporiums, a Children’s Kingdom and on weekends in December, after dark, ‘Regalia’ a spectacular rainbow light and sound show, is projected onto the Gothic façade of 13 th century Reims Cathedral.

Take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel at Place du Forum to gain incredible views of the old town, enjoy over 80 fairground rides or follow 4000 square metres of beautiful decorations and illuminated characters on the trail of Santa Claus’ Circus.

Fancy venturing out of Reims into the surrounding Champagne countryside? In December, over 40 towns and villages display a selection of Christmas crib scenes complete with historic carved figurines during a festival known as the ‘World Nativity Scene Route’.

Reims Christmas Market dates: 24 November – 24 December 2023. Official site .

MONTBÉLIARD

Spend the Christmas season in France visiting a festive market with a distinctly German flavour. The charming Franche-Comté town of Montbéliard hosts a Christmas Festival of Lights each year along with a craft fair, children’s village, exhibitions, concerts and parades.

Over 160 stalls selling silk accessories, ceramics, candles, art and millinery dot the town square outside 17th-century Temple Saint Martin, and in the evenings after sundown, there’s live Christmas music, dancing and festive choral singing from Les Enfants de la Lumière, a 150-strong group of children wearing candle crowns.

Montbéliard’s Christmas market caters to little ones too. In addition to Père Noël, the magical fairy known locally as Aunt Airie wanders the streets with a donkey handing out sweets and gifts to lucky children.

Young adventurers can also participate in Little Elves workshops with Advent crowns, Christmas biscuit making and sleigh rides, while adults enjoy mouth-watering cheeses, sausage and sweet treats at gourmet food stalls.

Montbéliard Christmas Market dates: 25 November – 24 December 2023. Official Site .

The city of Metz borders Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany, making it a great stop-off point for a Christmas market fix. It’s known to be one of the best Christmas markets in France with stalls and street entertainers haggling for your attention across the city’s main squares.

The heart of festivities is Place de la République, where a giant Christmas tree takes centre stage surrounded by nativity figurines, in various scenes, an ice rink and a toboggan run. Traditional wooden chalets at the Metz Christmas Market specialise in heirloom decorations, painted baubles and gifts made by local artisans, while Place de la Comédie is infused with stalls brimming with food and drink delicacies.

Visitors can stock up on trinkets and gourmet treats at the market hall or marvel at hand-crafted gifts inside the Christmas pyramid while sipping warm hot chocolate.

The highlight of Metz Christmas is the annual Sentiers des Lanternes on Place Boufflers. The trail features over a million lights, and mini stages displaying colourful light sculptures of Santa, elves, donkeys and gingerbread houses. It’s a Christmas wonderland not to be missed, especially if travelling with children.

Metz Christmas Market dates: 24 November – 30 December 2023.

LILLE & R OUBAIX

Combine a visit to these two very different markets just 20 minutes apart while travelling through northern France.

Lille is one of the country’s most popular festive venues, with dozens of chalets selling local arts, crafts and foods. When combined with ornate architecture, cobbled streets and a distinctly Flemish vibe, the city is a joy to discover in winter.

Food lovers with a sweet tooth can sample handmade macarons and babelutte caramels and for savoury enthusiasts, there are local cheeses to try. Take a thrilling ride on the Ferris wheel for the best views over the city, before heading to the snow village for more fun and festivities.

The second location is just a short drive or train journey north to the former textile town of Roubaix. This town is unique in the sense that it hosts France’s first and only sustainable Christmas market.

Championing zero waste for three years, the Roubaix Christmas market attracts eco-conscious shoppers from all over France, not to mention, that it’s one of the only markets open until the first week in January!

The small market showcases handmade products and those crafted from recycled materials, allowing you to purchase gifts with a clear conscience. In addition, there are festive animations and a traditional ice skating rink to enjoy!

Lille Christmas Market dates: 22 November – 31 December 2023

With a completely unique, natural, non-consumerist take on Christmas, the picturesque town of Evian famed for its spring water makes our list.

There are no traditional wooden chalets or market stalls in Evian at Christmas, instead, 650 sculptures, figurines and mythical creatures dot the city streets as part of a festival called ‘Les Flottins’.

These sculptures are unusual in the sense that they are all crafted from driftwood gathered from the shores of Lake Geneva. Wander the city at night and the creative sculptures illuminate with twinkling torchlights and fireworks.

This extraordinary cultural event is a great place for those on a Christmas budget, and dreamers who prefer to imagine and listen to stories and poetry readings rather than shop.

There are myriad workshops to enjoy, fire ceremonies, and music kiosks inside trees, and families can follow a mysterious quest to the four corners of the village searching for clues leading to hidden treasures.

While you’re in Evian, why not pop down the road, and experience the magic of Geneva in the wintertime too?

The best places in France for Christmas markets are awash with twinkling lights and scented with spice come December, and the experience is not to be missed. Remember this is a list of the biggest and most beautiful, but there are also many smaller atmospheric markets in different regions to visit in France during Christmas time, so wherever you decide to stay, there’s sure to be a fun festive market nearby!

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A GUIDE TO FRANCE CHRISTMAS MARKETS

European Christmas Markets are some of the best holiday markets in the world! So this year after my trip with Galeries Lafayette I made a trip to Alsace to visit Colmar and Strasbourg Christmas Markets. During this time, the holiday markets are a must-visit destination because everything is decorated beautifully and located in the most charming towns in France! Here’s my guide to France Christmas Markets.

HOW TO GET TO ALSACE

Most people rent cars which would be easiest but since I was only visiting for two nights I used public transportation. I took a train to get to each town and used Uber when needed. There’s also taxi’s available.

DAY 1: COLMAR

WHERE TO STAY : Hotel Le Colombier or Hotel Le Marechal

Our first stop was Colmar , we took a train from Paris and it took about 3 hours to arrive. Colmar was on the top of our list, especially for the holidays since the entire city is transformed into a magical Christmas dream. There are Christmas decorations everywhere you go and is one of my favorite towns! I truly felt like I was walking around a Christmas fairytale. Dates: November 22 through December 29th.

THINGS TO DO

• Colmar Christmas Market : There’s a total of 6-holiday markets that spread around town and markets open at 10 am. There’s a ton to see when you walk around including shopping and places to eat.
• Explore Old Town : Walk around the historical small town where you’ll find beautiful renaissance buildings, you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready because you’ll find picturesque opportunities in every corner
• Boat trip through Little Venice : When visiting Colmar, Little Venice must be visited. The charming buildings along the canal are one of the most picturesque views in Colmar.
• Maison Pfister : Magnificent building that highlights Alstanian renaissance architecture. Built for the wealthy hatter Ludwig Schurer in 1537.
• Koïfhus : The oldest building in Colmar and former customs house
• Musee Bartholdi : known for his creation of the Statue of Liberty, Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi has a museum showcasing sculptures, models, and sketches throughout his career
• Saint-Martin Church : a 13th century gothic Church that has been in Colmar city for at least 1000 years

PLACES TO EAT

• L’ Epicurien : Great local French and European restaurant in Colmar, highly recommend getting reservations in advance
• La Soi : Great lunch option, the main specialty at La So is the tarte flambée (a traditional Alsatian specialty)
• JY’S : Two Michelin star restaurant by chef Jean-Yves Schillinger, serves outstanding French and European fusion dishes
• Le Petit Bidon : Family-run restaurant that is cozy and intimate and serves an innovative twist to French cuisine

DAY 2: STRASBOURG

WHERE TO STAY : Sofitel Strasbourg or Mercure in Petite France

Strasbourg is a 30-minute ride from Colmar and just like Colmar, Christmas in Strasbourg is magical. Christmas markets in Strasbourg are world-famous and thousands of people flock to the markets during the holiday season.

• Christmas Markets : 10 Christmas Markets with over 300 stalls! Tons of opportunities for you to shop and purchase goodies
• Strasbourg Cathedral : until 1874, it was the tallest building in the world and features a beautiful astronomical clock
• The Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber : a giant Christmas tree in the central and largest square in Strasbourg
• La Petite France : Cute and charming cobblestone quarter with old structures from the 1500s and 1600s, is a great place to take photos! Petite France has a Christmas market too
• Neustadt (New Town) : Recently added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage, this lively part of the city that has numerous recreations of nativity scenes to enjoy

• La Cloche a Fromage : Be sure to book reservations in advance because this popular restaurant is definitely worth a try if you’re a meat and cheese lover
• Le Kuhn : Outstanding traditional Alsacean cuisine
• Au Crocodile: Popular one Michelin star fine-dining French restaurant
• Binchstub : local neighborhood restaurant that serves next level mouthwatering flammekueche (tart flambée)
• Brasserie Au Dauphin : super cute restaurant with Christmas Trees lined up upon entering and worth a photo!
• Patisserie Christian : Stop by for the pastries and pink storefront for a photo. I believe there are two locations in town – this one is a few minutes from the Cathedral.

There are so many other amazing Christmas Markets in France worth visiting if you have time. Here’s a few worth visiting:

• Mulhouse Christmas Market : located in Alsace and worth visiting if you’re already visiting Colmar and Strasbourg
• Reims Christmas Market : located just 45 minutes outside of Paris, this Christmas Market has 145 stalls on the Parvis of the Cathedrale for you to discover from November 22, 2019, to December 29, 2019.
• Metz Christmas Market: a market not to be missed with an ice-skating rink, Ferris wheel, and ice sculptures! This Christmas market is great for both the old and the young to enjoy. It runs from November 20, 2019, to January 5, 2020.
• Montbeliard Christmas Market: a German-style Christmas market located in Montbeliard. This market attracts over 400,000 visitors with it’s 115,000 illuminating Christmas lights. This market runs from November 23, 2019, to December 24, 2019.
• Paris Christmas Market: a market you can’t miss if you’re visiting for the holidays. Enjoy festive Christmas decorations, shopping, and regional food specialties. This market runs from November 15, 2019, through January 5, 2020.
• Avignon Christmas Market: Open daily from 10am to 7pm from November 30, 2019, to December 20, 2019, you will find everything you need at this Christmas market.
• Lille Christmas Market: From November 22, 2019, to December 24, 2019, this Christmas market is open every day. On Place Rihour, 90 stalls are open for you to explore.

I hope you enjoyed this blog post and make your way through France Christmas Markets!

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Hi! I’m Christine, a full time travel blogger who loves to travel, eat and inspire others to live a life of adventures.

I’m a big foodie so be prepared to see mouth watering photos of what I eat! =)

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September 20, 2020

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Where to Find the Best European Christmas Market Tours for 2023 and 2024

Get into the holiday spirit with a european christmas market tour..

The Scoop: What to Know About Trafalgar Tours

There are so many reasons to plan a winter trip to visit European Christmas markets . The vibe is cozy, festive, and taps into the holiday spirit like few other places on Earth. There’s always at least one massive Christmas tree decorated to the hilt. They’re the perfect place to shake off the feeling of obligation that comes with buying gifts off an Amazon list. And who can resist the warming drinks and snacks (Mulled wine! Warm roast nuts! Gingerbread!)? 

But for travelers from North America, traveling to Europe for Christmas markets in between Thanksgiving and Christmas can feel daunting. And deciding which European Christmas markets to visit can make it easy to call it quits and stall out on the planning, since they’re spread out all across Germany , France , Italy , and many other popular European tour spots.

PLAN YOUR DREAM TRIP: 15 Best Group Travel Companies for Guided Tours

That’s the joy of European Christmas market tours. Offered by a number of land-based and river cruise tour companies , these multi-day guided trips make it easy to visit three, four, or more Christmas markets in Germany, Austria, Hungary, France, Italy, or the UK. And while you’re there, you can sightsee at a time of year when the crowds are significantly smaller at Europe’s top tourist attractions . 

Where to Find the Best Christmas Market Tours for 2023 and 2024

Guided tour online travel agency TourRadar lists hundreds of Christmas market tours from tour companies including Trafalgar, Travel Talk, Avalon Waterways, G Adventures, Contiki, and Uniworld. 

The online travel agency TourHub also has a ton of Christmas market tour offerings. The site breaks down its list of available Christmas market tours by country, including Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, and the UK. At press time, there were still some discounts on 2023 departures.

River cruise operator CroisiEurope has a great collection of Christmas market river cruises. It also lists cruises that take place over the Christmas holiday and New Year’s cruises. Similarly, Avalon Waterways offers Christmas holidays sightseeing tours with a river cruise, bringing guests from city to city (and Christmas market to Christmas market) via the Danube, Rhine, and Main rivers. 

The experts at Cruise Critic have plenty of advice about the best Christmas markets to visit if you’re on a river cruise, too, and it’s definitely worth a read if you’re comparing different itineraries.

Many popular tour companies also offer Christmas market tours for all ages. These include:

• G Adventures
• EF Go Ahead
• Road Scholar

Note that Contiki’s trips are geared to under-30s, making them a great option for students studying abroad who want a fun way to celebrate their winter breaks. Road Scholar’s list of Christmas market tour offerings includes European Christmas market tours and other holiday-themed itineraries to destinations around the world; they’re a great travel tour company for seniors in particular.

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• 9 Best Women-Only Travel Groups and Tour Operators
• 10 Best Travel Companies for Family Tours
• 10 Best Tour Companies for Solo Travelers

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Ultimate Christmas Markets

A Guide to Europe and Beyond

Nice Christmas Market 2024: South of France Village de Noël

Last Updated: 22 April 2024 No Comments

Nice offers a blend of Mediterranean climate and French Riviera elegance, attracting tourists year-round.

The Nice Christmas Market adds a festive touch to the city’s palm-lined streets and turquoise sea backdrop.

In this article, I’ll provide details on 2024 dates, opening times, locations, and local specialties in the South of France.

Christmas in Nice envelops the city with a warm glow as twinkling lights illuminate the iconic Promenade des Anglais.

Nice Christmas Market

The Christmas market in Nice, known as “Le Village de Noël,” stands out for its Alpine village theme, showcased through 60 chalets and an artificial forest of over 600 pine trees in Jardin Albert 1er.

Alongside the traditional fare, the market offers unique experiences like a Swedish Light Festival and an Eco Christmas Village.

Visitors can enjoy various attractions, including a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a themed House of Santa Claus for the kids.

Dates and Location

Nice Christmas Market dates: 29th November 2024 to 1st January 2025 (unconfirmed). Location: Jardin Albert 1er and Place Masséna. Opening times: Before Christmas Eve: Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 9pm. Friday and Saturday: 11am to 11pm. Christmas Eve to New Year’s: 11am to 7pm. Entrance closes one hour before closing time. Christmas Day: Open. Admission: Free. Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 29th November at 6pm (unconfirmed). Santa: Yes. Père Noël can be found at Jardin Albert 1er until 24th December (unconfirmed), 11am to 8pm on Wednesdays, weekends and holidays. House of Santa Clause: Jardin Albert 1er. Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday: 11am to 10pm. Face painting: Weekends and public holidays from 2pm to 7pm. Swedish Light Festival: 9th December 2024, from 5pm (unconfirmed). Eco Christmas Village: 15th December 2024, 10am to 5pm (unconfirmed). Ice skating: Yes, at Place Masséna. Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options. Vegan: Yes, plenty of options. Gluten-free: Yes, but limited. Accessible: Yes. Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods. Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Reason to visit:  Alpine village theme, Ferris wheel, ice rink, Swedish Light Festival, Santa’s workshop. Recommended tour: Nice Old Town walking tour . Specialities: Socca, candied fruits, Provençal pastries, lavender honey, Niçoise treats. Where to stay: Arome Hotel is an exceptionally well-rated hotel, 13 minutes from Jardin Albert 1er.

Hotels in the Area

For easy access to the Christmas market, the ideal place to stay is in the Old Town (Vieux Nice). This historic district is close to the market and within walking distance of numerous other attractions.

I highly recommend Arome Hotel ; its popular location and high ratings make it an excellent choice for your stay during the festive season.

Main Event Location

Recommended Tours

A city tour of Nice is an excellent way to discover the city’s past and cultural diversity. The appealing Old Town, vibrant building exteriors, and striking architecture make Nice a worthwhile city to explore, even during winter.

This walking tour of Old Town Nice highlights the city’s key points of interest.

Alternatively, consider taking this food tour to understand local culture via their gastronomy. I definitely recommend this in Nice, given its diverse food history and wonderful food and markets.

For the most reliable information on the best Christmas markets in France , including their locations, specialities, and opening hours, you’ll want to check out my guide.

Christmas in Nice

Regional specialties.

Socca : Originating from Nice, socca is a chickpea flour pancake. Typically cooked on a large griddle, it’s sliced into irregular pieces and served hot. If you want to try a local specialty, socca should be high on your list.

Pissaladière : This dish is a local version of pizza, topped with caramelised onions, olives, and anchovies. Pissaladière holds a special place in the culinary landscape of Nice and is a common sight at the Christmas market.

Pan Bagnat : Essentially a Niçoise salad in a bun, pan bagnat is a fulfilling snack. The sandwich includes ingredients like tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and olives, making it a hearty meal option.

Calissons : This sweet treat hails from Aix-en-Provence but is widely popular in Nice as well. Calissons are made from a smooth, pale yellow paste of candied fruit and ground almonds, set on a wafer and topped with royal icing.

Roasted Chestnuts : A traditional winter snack, roasted chestnuts are widely available at Christmas markets, including in Nice. Vendors roast them on-site and usually serve them in paper cones.

Mulled Wine : While not a local specialty, mulled wine is an essential part of many Christmas markets. In Nice, you’ll often find it with a unique twist, sometimes including a splash of local orange liqueur.

Churros : Known in France as chichis, these fried dough pastries are crowd-pleasers. Commonly enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar or a dip in chocolate sauce, they’re a satisfying snack as you explore the market.

Tartiflette : Originating from the Savoy region, this dish combines potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions into a hearty casserole. Though not native to Nice, it’s often found at winter events throughout France, including the Christmas market here.

Raclette : This Swiss dish has made its way into French Christmas markets, Nice included. Raclette cheese is heated and then scraped onto the plate, commonly served with potatoes and pickles.

Gingerbread : Although not a French specialty, gingerbread is often found at Christmas markets worldwide. In Nice, the gingerbread stalls add an international flavour to your experience.

Sausages and Cured Meats : French saucisson and other cured meats are a staple at markets. Easy to eat while you wander, they offer a taste of French charcuterie that pairs well with mulled wine or a baguette.

Crepes : No French market would be complete without a crepe stand. Offering both sweet and savoury options, crepes are a versatile and beloved treat.

Macarons : These colourful, round cookies made of almond meal are usually filled with jam or buttercream. While not unique to Nice, they remain a popular choice at Christmas markets across France.

Hot Chocolate : Often homemade and sometimes enriched with cinnamon or vanilla, hot chocolate keeps your hands warm as you explore the market. A universal favourite, it appeals to visitors of all ages.

What to Buy

Handcrafted Olive Wood Items : Provence’s olive trees are famous for their fruit and beautiful wood, which artisans fashion into a range of items. You may find kitchen utensils, decorative bowls, or intricate ornaments, each piece unique due to the distinct grain of the wood.

Provencal Fabrics : Provence and the Côte d’Azur are known for vibrant, patterned fabrics. Look for tablecloths, napkins, aprons, and bags, all bursting with the colours and motifs typical of the region, like olives, lemons, and lavender. These fabrics make wonderful, practical gifts that bring a touch of the South of France to any home.

Lavender Products : The lavender fields of Provence are iconic, and at the Nice Christmas Market, you can find a plethora of lavender products. Consider essential oils, soaps, or dried lavender sachets – perfect for infusing drawers or cupboards with this soothing, distinctive scent.

Local Wine and Spirits : The South of France is renowned for its wine. Look for bottles from local vineyards or perhaps some Pastis, an anise-flavoured spirit popular in the region. Remember to check the regulations for transporting alcohol if you’re travelling internationally.

Traditional Christmas Decorations : A Christmas market without festive decorations wouldn’t be a Christmas market. Expect to find hand-painted baubles, wooden nativity figures, and handcrafted Advent calendars. Each one adds a special touch to the festive decor and can become a treasured keepsake for years to come.

Things to Do in Winter

For up-to-date information on winter activities and current events in Nice, I recommend checking out Explore Côte d’Azur as an additional resource to enhance your visit. Here are some winter travel ideas to get you started.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in the French Riviera and Nice at Christmas.

Use Renewable Energy : Several hotels in Nice prioritise using renewable energy sources. By staying in these places, you’re supporting initiatives that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Reduce Food Waste : French culture highly values food, making it less common to see waste. Follow local customs – take home leftovers from your meal or ask for smaller portions at restaurants. At the Christmas market, only buy food you know you’ll eat.

Ethical Consumption : At the Christmas markets, look for stalls selling local artisan products, which not only support the local economy but also reduce the environmental impact of transportation. The handcrafted olive wood items or the Provencal fabrics are just a couple of examples.

Sustainable Diets : Opt for local, seasonal produce with a lower carbon footprint. The Christmas market is the perfect place to sample delicacies local to Nice, France, many of which are based on locally grown ingredients. The Socca or the Barbagiuan are prime examples.

Sustainable Transport : Nice is a walkable city, and the Christmas market in Old Nice is easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city. For longer distances, utilise Nice’s extensive public transportation system, which includes trams, buses, and shared bicycles. Not only is this an eco-friendly choice, but it also allows you to experience the city like a local.

If you want to leave a Nice Xmas Market review, comment below.

Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Nice, France. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.

Plan Your Winter Holiday

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Ultimate Christmas Markets A guide to Christmas in Europe and beyond.

Written by Andrea Anastasakis PO Box 205 Fremantle WA 6959

Email:  [email protected]

2024 Guide To the Strasbourg Christmas Markets (+ Map!)

Disclaimer: Real-life human experiences. Written by a human. Created for humans. (Travels at Missy does not use AI for our articles. All posts and information are 1st hand experience. AI data-scrapping tools are expressly forbidden from using Travels with Missy content for AI Training).

Long on my list, the self-proclaimed ‘ Capital of Christmas ‘ – Strasbourg Christmas Markets were some of my favorite Christmas Markets in France. After a long time I finally took the plunge, rented a car, and drove from my home in Antwerp, Belgium down to Strasbourg, and tackled my fear of driving in unfamiliar cities.

The Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2023 did not disappoint in the slightest. In fact, they kind of blew me away. And this may be a controversial opinion, but I think they’re even better than Colmar Christmas Markets . Only by a teeny-tiny amount though.

The city of Strasbourg is breathtakingly beautiful . Ringed by the River Ill and near the majestic Rhine River, walking around the center of Strasbourg is like stepping back in time. With timber homes that have been carefully preserved, you can easily imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago when this was a Medieval stronghold due to its important geographical position.

Strasbourg Christmas Market Tour

Enjoy the Christmas Markets of Strasbourg with a guided tour . Learn the history of Christmas in the region, and how it originated over 2 hours. Explore the markets and learn insider tips and tricks.

Strasbourg Christmas Market Dates

The Christmas Markets in Strasbourg run from 24th November 2023 until the 24th December 2023 .

The Christmas Market stalls are operational every day from 11.30 am until 9 pm.

The Grand Sapin has a cute light show on the hour every hour from 4 pm until 9 pm, where you can watch it twinkle and ‘dance’ to the music.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets

There are a number of Christmas markets in Strasbourg that are located around the historic part of the city. You can easily walk between each of the Christmas Markets and is the best way to discover the city of Strasbourg too.

Trust me there is a lot to see in this beautiful city. It’s worth spending at least 2 days to get a feel for the city and not only visit the Christmas Markets but also to visit the city and it’s beautiful streets.

Strasbourg Christmas market map

Place Broglie – Chrìstkìndelsmärik

One of the oldest Christmas Markets in Europe that dates all the way back to 1570, once you pass through the large archway you’ll find yourself in a sea of stalls selling sweets, mulled wine, and lots of deliciousness. This was the only place I spotted the divine Grumbeerekiechle (Galettes de pomme de Terre) which are worth a visit alone. You can find out more information about the Strasbourg Christmas Market Food below.

Head to the nearby chalet that is decorated with pictures of celebrities who have visited the Chrìstkìndelsmärik in Place Broglie and enjoy your Christmas Market food.

Place de la Cathédrale

The stalls around the Notre Dame Cathedral are especially beautiful in the evening when the festive lighting is turned on. With plenty of shopping with stalls selling Nutcracker figurines, small traditional Alsatian houses and lots of options for mulled wine, you’ll be entertained for quite some time here.

The backdrop of the Cathedral is especially enchanting, and should you venture a few feet you’ll find an atmospheric street adorned with teddy bears occupying windows and one of the prettiest streets in Strasbourg – Rue du Maroquin .

Place du Chateau

An extension of Place de la Cathédrale that has additional stalls selling jewelry, food and drinks. A gorgeous 2-floor carousel illuminates the Cathedral and makes for a stunning setting.

Place Kléber

Home to the enormous Strasbourg Christmas Tree ( Le Grand Sapin ) you’ll find one of the biggest and busiest spots at the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg. Complete with plenty of places to pick up some gifts, mulled wine or some bretzels, make sure to watch the light show on the hour as the Le Grand Sapin dances to timed music.

the quai des délices

One of the quaintest settings of the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg is along the banks of the River Ill. Head here for sunset and watch the river cruise boats pass by with a cup of Glühwein in hand. The nearby stalls are mostly food and are more tranquil than the large places like Place Kléber.

la petite France

Two markets are worth exploring in this area of La Petite France – Place Benjamin Zix & Place Saint-Thomas . If you have a sweet tooth you’ll find your fix here, and there are more goods such as candles, small ceramic figurines being sold too.

the off-market – Place grimmeissen

If sustainability is your thing, you will LOVE ‘ Le Marché Off ‘ – this was one of my favorite Christmas Markets in Strasbourg. The stalls have been set up in former shipping containers and sell a variety of vintage clothing, handcrafted ceramics, stationary, artworks, and lots of other incredibly locally produced goods.

@travelswithmissy Strasbourg Christmas Markets are not to be missed when visiting France this winter. Visit the 100 foot Christmas tree, Le Grand Sapin or shop in the many market stalls. #strasbourgchristmasmarket #strasbourgmarchedunoel #europeanchristmas #europeanchristmasmarkets ♬ Epic Music(863502) – Draganov89

Strasbourg Christmas tree (Le Grand Sapin)

I’ll admit I didn’t really know much about Strasbourg before I planned my visit to the Christmas Markets. Let alone about the enormous Strasbourg Christmas Tree, it came as quite a surprise when I turned onto Place Kléber and found easily the tallest tree I’ve ever seen in my entire life.

For reference, I’m a city girl and live in an apartment, but I’d like to think most people would be completely blown away by how enormous ‘ Le Grand Sapin ‘ aka the Strasbourg Christmas Tree is.

The Strasbourg Christmas Tree soars 30 meters (98 feet) high and has over 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) of lights that adorn its branches! It’s HUGE! It’s one of the most important fixtures at the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg and really needs to be seen to be believed.

One of the most interesting facts that I learned about the history of Christmas whilst in Strasbourg, was that the glass bauble we traditionally decorate our tree supposedly occurred during the 18th century when trees were decorated with nuts, biscuits and apples.

A shortage of apples that particular season led to glassblowers from the Meisenthal glassmakers creating decorative baubles to hang up in the apple’s absence. Et Voilà! The Christmas Tree took on a new life.

Strasbourg Christmas market food

• Bretzel – The Alsace region is known for its Bretzel’s (pretzel) and you’ll find a variety of flavors – plain with sea salt, cheese from the town of Munster (I highly recommend this one), and other toppings. They’re everywhere!

• Glühwein – You’ll see signs for ‘ Le Vin Chaud ‘ everywhere you go. Glühwein or mulled wine is typically a red wine that is served hot with spices such as star anise or cinnamon. You can also find a white mulled wine variety too, as well as apple cider in some of the stalls in the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg.

However, if you’re looking for cute and adorable mugs like the ones found in the German or Austrian Christmas Markets you’ll be very disappointed (I know I was!). Only plastic-decorated cups are found at the Markets and you’ll pay a €1 or €2 deposit for the cup.

• Bredle – you’ll see these adorable varieties of small biscuits/cookies everywhere you go in Strasbourg or Alsace. They are delicious and it’s best to grab a mixture to nibble on. They also make a wonderful gift, but make sure the package is vacuumed and sealed. As they do get stale easily.

The flavors of endless from gingerbread, and butter cookies to anise. You can purchase from the many market stalls in Strasbourg Christmas Markets or any of the bakeries or patisseries around town.

• Grumbeerekiechle (Galettes de pomme de Terre) – Potato rösti’s are some of my favourite Christmas Market food. And I actually only found these in one stall in Strasbourg and they did not disappoint. Offering 3 varieties, original, Emmental cheese or Munster cheese – I recommend the cheesy ones as a must-try. Divine!

• Chestnuts (Le Marron) – Roasted chestnuts are available on pretty much every street corner. I’ve still yet to try them, but they smell heavenly.
• Mannele – A brioche figure typically in the shape of a child. It looks like a doll. Tastes delicious. Can be plain or have chocolate chips throughout it. Traditionally eaten around December 6th when Saint Nicholas (Nick) visits well-behaved children. Sinterklaas in Belgium.

Where to Stay in Strasbourg for the Christmas markets

The best place to stay in Strasbourg for the Christmas Markets is in the center of the city. You can walk out of your accommodation and be within minutes of the markets that are dotted around the town.

• Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa – This gorgeous hotel is just a 1-minute walk from Le Grand Sapin in Place Kléber and is ornately decorated.
• Hotel Suisse – This adorable hotel with a cozy feel is located right beside the Cathedral and one of the prettiest sections of the Strasbourg Christmas Markets.

Alternatively, if you want to save a bit of money consider staying on the German side of Strasbourg in the town of Kehl. I based my stay here and found it super easy to hop on a tram (the D tram) which drops you off in the center of Strasbourg 20 minutes later ( Homme de Fer is the city-center tram stop). Hotels and accommodation are a fraction of the price too.

• Hotel Restaurant Schwert – I stayed in Hotel Restaurant Schwert for the Strasbourg Christmas Markets in the German town of Kehl and I found it perfectly fine. Onsite parking, a 5-minute walk to the tram (line D), and it was only a 20-minute tram ride into Strasbourg. Perfectly fine budget accommodation.

Christmas Markets in Alsace

You’ve come all this way to Strasbourg then you’ve got to check out the nearby Christmas Markets of Colmar and the adorable Christmas Villages of Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Kayserberg and so many more!

Colmar is a 1 hour drive from Strasbourg and all the route you’ll find lots of adorable villages that are picture-postcard-perfect. The village of Riquewihr completely stole my heart and is probably one of the most incredible and festive towns I’ve ever been to.

Budget your time to spend at least 2 – 3 days bouncing around these towns. There is a lot to see in the area, and it also happens to have fantastic wine that is worthy of exploring on the infamous ‘ Alsace Wine Route ‘ that can be explored by car, bicycle or even on foot.

Interested in more european christmas markets?

There are so many Christmas Markets around Europe that are worth exploring. You’d need several seasons to try and cover them all. At least that’s what I’m trying to do!

For more information on the German Christmas Markets:

• Cologne Christmas Markets
• Trier Christmas Markets

Read my post and discover the Vienna Christmas Markets too.

Meet Missy…

Missy spent the first 2 decades of her life living in her native Dublin, Ireland. Before a life living overseas called to her, and she spent the next decade living in China, Laos & Belgium. She now splits her time in Antwerp, Belgium, and wherever the sun is currently shining. You can follow Missy’s real-time travels on her Instagram .

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