Lifestyle

The Greatest Christmas Markets in France

March 18, 2023

The Christmas markets are positively among the greatest – the decor, the meals, and the spirit are unbelievable! What I like is that the small cities get simply as into the season, possibly much more so, than the bigger cities! From the over-the-top Alsacian markets to the Provencal markets, there’s one thing for everybody on the French Christmas markets.

Christmas in France makes an already pretty place much more charming. France is a rustic usually characterised by its romance, and that enchantment is multiplied in the course of the Christmas season. The streets are embellished with twinkling lights, shops scent of pine and cinnamon, and particular vacation meals are ready on stoves throughout the nation.

However one in all my favourite issues to do all through the Christmas season in France is to go to the various conventional, and typically not-so-traditional, vacation markets all through the nation.

Need to discover the very best Christmas markets in France? I’ve acquired pretty markets and cities that may make you fall in love with this lovable, charming nation.

Just like different European Christmas markets, French Christmas markets provide a smattering of Christmas spirit in a single picturesque locale. Picket huts show handmade objects from makers throughout the nation, vacation meals are offered sizzling, and mulled wine warms these chilly buying fingers.

Wherever you end up in France this vacation season, from Paris to the French Riviera and among the smallest villages in between, you’re assured to be close to a Christmas market. The next are the highest Christmas markets to go to in France.

Listed below are the very best villages and cities in France for experiencing Christmas markets.

Suggestions on your journey & Map of the Christmas Markets in France

France is a big nation, so it is not doable to go to each single market. I extremely suggest that you simply go to the Alsace area of France. Right here, you possibly can go to most of the high Christmas markets like Strasbourg and Colmar. From right here, you possibly can simply enterprise into Germany, the place the unique Christmas markets happen.

You may see my picks for the very best Christmas markets in Europe right here!

1. Strasbourg – the oldest Christmas market in France

If I used to be solely in a position to counsel one metropolis in France to go to this vacation season, it must be Strasbourg. Also referred to as The Capital of Christmas, or Capital de Noel, Strasbourg overflows with vacation spirit, from the magical decorations on practically each window on the town to the towering Christmas tree within the city sq.. It is one of many largest in Europe!

Strasbourg is not only recognized for its one Christmas market. It’s recognized for 10 fantastical markets, that are all simply accessed on foot. These markets are all among the most conventional within the nation, bringing households collectively to rejoice the meals, drinks, crafts, and decorations of the vacation season. In truth, the well-known Christkindelsmarik at Place Broglie is likely one of the oldest in all of Europe, relationship again to 1570.

Store the greater than 300 vendor stalls discovered all through the town, sip the recent mulled wine, snack on conventional eats, and most significantly, benefit from the holidays with those you like. Strasbourg is the right vacation spot for making new Christmas reminiscences.

Strasbourg Christmas Market dates: November twenty fifth by December twenty sixth, 2022.
See my full information to Strasbourg Christmas markets right here.

2. Colmar Christmas Market – Greatest Christmas Market within the Alsace

Just like Strasbourg, Colmar is dwelling to a number of Christmas markets, however the primary Colmar Christmas Market is a vacation spot of its personal. Nestled amongst among the metropolis’s hottest architectural websites and beneath the glittering timber, you’ll discover stalls lining the streets, promoting spiced gingerbread, native artwork, handmade ornaments, and extra.

Along with the primary Colmar Christmas Market, you’ll discover roughly 60 extra stalls at Place des Dominicains and one other at Place de l’Ancienne Douane, lining the scenic Lauch River. Nevertheless, you received’t need to depart the town with out visiting Place Jeanne-d’Arc, the place you’ll discover an unbelievable collection of conventional meals, together with native wine, cookies, and foie gras. I like to replenish on contemporary, native meats and cheeses to show on vacation charcuterie boards.

Colmar Christmas Market dates: Nov. 24, 2022 to Dec. 29, 2022

3. Metz – One of many largest Christmas markets in France

If you end up within the north east of France this vacation season, be sure to go to Metz Christmas Market! I like the attractive metropolis of Metz! It is solely positioned an hour and a half from my favourite Christmas market in France, Strasbourg, so it is effectively value it to go!

Wander by the greater than 100 vendor stalls, that are arrange all through the town heart and in entrance of the gorgeous Metz Cathedral. Marc Chagall illumianted the cathedral and it is already a surprising, spectacular constructing.

However the very best half? The connoisseur and decadent meals. All through the town you possibly can have your fill of conventional French meals and Christmas specialties! Style the Tartiflette, raclette, escargot, and even foie gras. Prime it off with Vin Chaud (mulled wine) for the right Christmas market journey!

Metz Christmas Market dates: November 18th by December 24, 2022

4. Ribeauvillé – Greatest Medieval Christmas Market in France

In search of a very magical and distinctive Christmas market expertise? Then it’s essential to go to the Ribeauvillé Medieval Christmas Market! This market is held in probably the most lovely, medieval villages in all of France. However be aware- it is solely on ONE weekend!

Ribeauvillé is positioned in Alsace, which suggests the village and market are filled with German influences. That is most evident within the Christmas market meals, which incorporates specialties like gingerbread (lebkuchen), spit-roasted pork knuckle (schweinshaxe), and flammenküche (tarte flambée).

The market stretches all through out the city, however what makes Ribeavillé so distinctive is that the complete city participates. You may see individuals dressed up with stilts, scary cosumes, and even reside animals. Lots of the markets do not settle for cash, you will have to trade your cash for picket beans as a substitute! There are big logs in the course of the road on fireplace for roadting meat s’mores, there are video games all through the village, and it is probably the most entertaining markets you possibly can go to! The medieval themed market is all set to the backdrop of pastel half timebred homes. merely magical!

Ribeauvillé Medieval Christmas Market dates: December third, 4th, tenth, and eleventh – as you possibly can see it is a tremendous quick season however so value it!

5. Kaysersberg – Conventional Alsatian Christmas Market in France

Nestled within the Vosges Mountains of north jap France, Kaysersberg is really a hidden gem. This medieval city is dwelling to probably the most lovely and enchanting Christmas markets in all of France.

The market is ready up across the imposing St. Mauritius Church, which is illuminated at evening so as to add to the general festive ambiance. There are over 80 vendor stalls all through the market, promoting all the things from handmade ornaments and toys to conventional French meals. The smells of gingerbread and contemporary baked items fill the air, whereas the sound of Christmas carols could be heard within the distance.

Kaysersberg is the right place to seek out distinctive presents on your family members, whereas additionally having fun with a festive and charming ambiance. For those who’re searching for a very magical Christmas market expertise, Kaysersberg is the place for you!

Kaysersberg Christmas Market dates: November twenty sixth by December twenty fourth, 2022.

6. Eguisheim – France’s Greatest Wine-Themed Christmas Market

Eguisheim is a quaint and picturesque wine-growing village positioned within the Alsace area of France. This village is dwelling to among the best (and most original) Christmas markets in all of France. As you possibly can think about, the Eguisheim Christmas market is themed round wine!

There are stalls promoting all the things from wine-themed Christmas decorations to handmade presents and, in fact, native wines. You may even get your individual customized bottle of wine on the market! Along with the various vendor stalls, there are additionally wine tastings and demonstrations all through the market.

Eguisheim is the right place to take pleasure in a glass (or two) of wine whereas doing all your Christmas buying. For those who love wine and are searching for a singular Christmas market expertise, Eguisheim is the place for you!

Eguisheim Christmas Market dates: November twenty fifth by December thirtieth, 2022

7. Riquewihr – A Timeless Christmas Market in France

Riquewihr is a medieval city positioned within the Alsace area of France. This city is dwelling to probably the most lovely and timeless Christmas markets in all of France.

The market is ready up across the picturesque Dolder Tower, which is illuminated at evening so as to add to the general festive ambiance. There are over 100 vendor stalls all through the market, promoting all the things from handmade presents and toys to conventional French meals. The smells of gingerbread and contemporary baked items fill the air, whereas the sound of Christmas carols could be heard within the distance.

Riquewihr Christmas Market dates: November twenty sixth by December twenty first, 2022

Different cities within the Alscae area with nice Christmas markets: Mulhouse, Obernai, and Haguenau!

8. Lille Christmas Market

The town of Lille in northern France welcomes guests in the course of the vacation season with the smells of contemporary garlands and mulled wine. Though, it’s usually the spectacular gentle shows that draw guests this far north. Lille takes Christmas critically, and the Lille Christmas Market can convey the Christmas spirit out in anybody.

The market options greater than 90 stalls, which promote locally-crafted presents in addition to objects from all over the world. Nevertheless, my favourite technique to see the market isn’t essentially on foot, as an enormous Ferris wheel gives magnificent views of the market stalls, shining Christmas tree, and extra from above. The Lille Christmas Market is smaller than some others within the nation, but it surely creates the right backdrop for a romantic night out within the metropolis.

Lille Christmas Market dates: Nov. 24, 2022 to Dec. 30, 2022

9. Bordeaux Christmas Market

This metropolis could also be extra well-known for its wines than its Christmas spirit, but it surely’s no secret that wine and the vacations pair properly collectively. The Bordeaux Christmas Market options greater than 100 completely different stalls, and naturally, it’s a super place to replenish on wine for the vacations, whether or not you’ll be having fun with it at your vacation desk or gifting it to buddies. Different stalls provide handmade glass objects, connoisseur sweets, perfumes, linens, and among the most original items handmade pottery.

The Bordeaux Christmas Market isn’t only for adults both. Households can discover a tour of the route that pilgrims as soon as traveled to Santiago de Compostela, go to Santa Claus, or hop aboard the vacation carousel. This market is a lot enjoyable that it might usually get busy, so that you’ll need to arrive early to seek out parking should you’ll be bringing your individual automobile. The locals suggest visiting by prepare.

Bordeaux Christmas Market dates: Nov. 25, 2022 to Dec. 25, 2022

10. Good Christmas Market

The French Riviera is known for its glitz and glam, and the Good Christmas Market shines simply as shiny. Right here, you’ll discover greater than 60 vendor stalls and an extended checklist of actions and occasions for guests of all ages. When you’re performed sipping on vin chaud (sizzling wine) and searching for handmade vacation presents, you possibly can head to the ice skating rink, go to Santa in his workshop, and luxuriate in a wide range of carnival rides and video games. You may even hop aboard the towering Ferris wheel and think about the Christmas market, in addition to the Mediterranean, from above.

One in all my favourite options of the Good Christmas Market is that this area tends to be hotter and sunnier than different areas of France this time of 12 months. Blue skies and mitten-less days make visiting the Good vacation market really feel extra like a trip than some other. But, the fir timber and vacation lights nonetheless present the Christmas appeal current at different markets throughout the nation. Carry the children and luxuriate in all the out of doors actions the Good Christmas Market has to supply.

Good Christmas Market dates: Dec. 1, 2022 to Jan. 22, 2023

See my information to the French Riviera right here.

11. Rouen Christmas Market

Straight in entrance of the grand cathedral, you’ll discover the fantastical Rouen Christmas Market, yearly bringing vacation cheer to the capital metropolis of Normandy. The Christmas market, and the vacation occasions and performances accompanying it, remodel this metropolis by the Seine right into a magical winter wonderland, full with 70 picket chalets for buying and eating, an ice skating rink, road leisure, and naturally, particular visits from Santa Claus. Rouen is understood for going over-the-top with vacation decorations and pleasure, so that you received’t need to miss this scenic metropolis in the course of the holidays.

Rouen is one in all my favourite cities in France, and the entire area of Normandy is value a go to.

Rouen Christmas Market dates: Nov. 24, 2022 to Dec. 27, 2022

12. Paris – Metropolis of Lights Christmas Market

It is no shock that the Metropolis of Lights is dwelling to multiple Christmas market, and that’s what makes visiting Paris this time of 12 months so particular. Guests can weave by the historic streets and iconic landmarks from Christmas market to Christmas market, sampling conventional vacation treats, listening to choirs, ice skating, and buying.

The vacation market at Champ de Mars, with views of the Eiffel Tower, is a favourite for buying picket handicrafts and different artisan-made objects. It’s additionally an ideal place to snack on locally-made meals objects, and Christmas cookies with mulled wine. One other must-visit market is the Noisy le Grand Market, well-known for its vacation decorations and horse-drawn carriage rides that information guests across the market sq.. Buying and eating on the streets of Paris is a vacation custom that many locals maintain pricey, and I feel it’s one thing each customer ought to expertise when visiting the town in the course of the Christmas season.

Paris Christmas Market dates: Nov. 19, 2022 to Jan. 1, 2023

Discover the important information to Paris right here!

13. Chamonix Christmas Market

If you wish to absolutely embrace the winter climate and really feel such as you’re strolling by an precise snow globe, there is not any higher place than Chamonix. That is one in all my favourite locations in France, not to mention Europe.

Chamonix is dwelling to Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in Europe. Christmas is a good time to go to. Together with the nice winter actions like snowboarding and sledding, the Christmas market is within the excellent setting on this idyllic village surrounded by the French Alps.

One of the simplest ways I can describe Chamonix is sort of a classic postcard. You simply need to see it to consider it! The dates for the Chamonix Christmas market are very quick, solely about two weeks in mid December. However with all of the actions and the attractive chalets make it one in all my high picks for Christmas in France.

Chamonix Christmas Market dates: Nov 24, 2022 to Dec 27, 2022

See my full information to Chamonix right here.

14. Grenoble Christmas Market

Rivaling Strasbourg as essentially the most magical French locale in the course of the holidays, Grenoble gives a pleasant Christmas market with an much more spectacular backdrop. Nestled in a valley between the Chartreuse, Vercors, and Belledonne mountains, you possibly can’t assist however really feel such as you’ve traveled to a fairytale land when having fun with Christmas within the Alps.

Much more, the Grenoble Christmas Market is definitely 4 Christmas markets positioned in numerous areas all through the town heart. The Place Grenette is understood for its Afro-Indian crafts and live shows, whereas the primary market at Place Victor Hugo is known for decent cider, sizzling wine, cheese, salami, and different mouthwatering vacation eats (and drinks). Grenoble overflows with vacation cheer, actions, live shows, and occasions this time of 12 months, so enable your self loads of time to find all of them.

Grenoble Christmas Market dates and instances: Wed, Nov. 24, 2022 to Tues, Dec. 27, 2022

15. Les Hivernales (Montpellier Christmas Market)

Montpellier is a metropolis balancing between previous and new. Trendy trams move by medieval streets and historic structure. The Montpellier Christmas Market, or Les Hivernales, additionally blends traditional Southern French Christmas custom with trendy occasions and actions. Discovered on the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle and Comedie Sq., this market options greater than 160 retailers, promoting meals merchandise and crafts from all through the area. Oysters, sweets, and mulled wine are offered alongside toys, vacation decorations, and handmade jewellery.

Santa Claus at all times sits on the coronary heart of the Montpellier Christmas Markets, and guests also can take pleasure in Christmas parades, sleigh rides, an ice skating rink, workshops, and extra. For the adults, a nighttime market gives regional meals, wines, and different drinks inside a big heated tent. There’s one thing for everybody on the Montpellier Christmas Market.

Montpellier Christmas Market dates and time: Nov. 24, 2022 to Dec. 26, 2022

16. Amiens Christmas Market

The Amiens Christmas Market stands out as the ultimate market on this, however that doesn’t imply it lacks something by way of appeal, crave-worthy meals, and vacation buying stalls. In truth, as the most important vacation market in nothern France, the Amiens Christmas Market gives greater than 2 kilometers of distributors from all through France and all over the world. You may even discover objects from India and Canada right here.

That is really a market the place yow will discover one thing for even essentially the most tough particular person in your checklist. And whereas the adults take pleasure in buying from stall to stall, youngsters can hop aboard a prepare by a winter wonderland or a variety of different vacation rides. You’ll want to time a minimum of one in all your visits to the market round 7pm, when the Cathedrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens shows a spectacular gentle and sound present. I need to admit — this unforgettable gentle show pairs completely with a cup of sizzling mulled cider.

Amiens Christmas Market dates: Nov. 25, 2022 to Dec. 31, 2022

Christmas Market Itinerary

You may’t go to all of the Christmas markets in France, however if you use my itinerary you can also make positive to see among the greatest and take advantage of your time! The Alsace area has the very best Christmas markets and so they simply really feel like a magical fairy story come to life!

Begin off in Strasbourg! That is the place I counsel you focus most of your time because it’s one of many largest and greatest Christmas markets in France. There’s a lot to do right here and a lot historical past. Make sure that to take a tour of the unbelievable Notre Dam Cathedral.

Subsequent, head south and focus on Obernai and Ribeauvillé – be sure to examine your dates to make sure you’re in Ribeauvillé on the dates of the Christmas market because it’s just one weekend!

You may simply see the markets of Riquewihr, Kaysersberg and Eguisheim in a day should you’re feeling bold. Or, you possibly can stretch these out over a pair days.

Make sure that to depart your self one full day for Colmar because it’s such a ravishing market.

When you’ve got further time on your Christmas market journey by France, head to Mulhouse. I additionally suggest popping over to Germany and seeing the close by markets in Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, and even the well-known tiny Ravenna Gorge Christmas market!

Ceaselessly Requested Questions About Christmas Markets in France

What are the dates for the Christmas markets in France?

There are numerous vacation markets, giant and small, held all through France this time of 12 months. Whereas the dates can fluctuate from a single weekend to almost two-months-long, most vacation markets happen from mid-November to late December. Some dates are prolonged into early January to accommodate New Yr’s Eve festivities.

What ought to I convey to a French Christmas Market?

You don’t have to be way more ready to go to a French Christmas market than you’ll be to take pleasure in a standard day of buying in a French metropolis. Nevertheless, as a result of most of the markets are solely outside, you’ll need to put on sufficient layers to maintain you heat for a number of hours outside. Gloves, a hat, and a shawl are equipment I virtually at all times put on to Christmas market (until I’m within the French Riviera).

It’s additionally vital to return ready with loads of money, or a debit card to have the ability to withdraw money. Many distributors choose, or solely settle for, money funds.

What different nations have Christmas Markets?

Christmas Markets are a typical European custom, and they are often present in quite a few European nations, together with Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Croatia, and past. I like touring all through Europe, and all over the world, to various Christmas markets. Beneath, yow will discover a wide range of weblog posts I’ve written on my favourite markets throughout the continent.

Final Information for The Greatest Christmas Markets in Europe

15 Greatest Christmas Markets in Germany

Greatest Christmas Markets in Switzerland

What to Eat and Drink at a German Christmas Market

25 Photographs That Will Encourage You to Spend Christmas in Europe

Greatest Aspect Journeys for Christmas in Germany

Custom of Christmas in France

The Christmas markets in France are among the oldest conventional markets in Europe. It first appeared within the Alsace area in 1521. Strasbourg’s Christmas market dates again to 1570. For those who needed to choose a area, I counsel visiting the Christmas Markets within the Alsace region- these are the very best!

In Strasbourg, one of many largest Christmas timber is within the metropolis heart at Place Kléber, and one of many largest Creation wreath is within the Cathedral of Strasbourg.

The Christmas tree in French known as, “sapin de noël.” The tree, lined in crimson apples and lights, symbolizes Jesus and, “The sunshine that illuminates the world.” Santa Claus is called “Père Noël” and is impressed by Saint Nicolas. Initially, he gave presents to youngsters in Germany and France on December sixth, Saint Nicolas day.

December twenty fourth, Rèveillion is when most French individuals rejoice with households and have their giant meals. They take pleasure in luxurious, conventional meals like oysters, truffles, cookies, and frog legs. Then, they may attend Midnight Mass.