12 Best Christmas Markets in France to Visit
France is home to some of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe, offering a blend of tradition, festive cheer, and regional specialties.
Whether you’re exploring the enchanting Alsace Christmas markets or discovering hidden gems throughout France, these markets are perfect for creating unforgettable holiday memories.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best Christmas markets in France 2024.
1. Strasbourg Christmas Market – The “Capital of Christmas”
Known as the oldest Christmas market in France, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik has been enchanting visitors since 1570.
Located in the Alsace region, this market spreads throughout the city, with highlights at Place Broglie and Place Kléber.
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” it showcases traditional Alsatian Christmas charm with dazzling Christmas lights, festive music, and unique arts and crafts.
Each year, visitors from throughout France and beyond come to experience this magical Christmas destination.
- What to Expect:
- Over 300 stalls featuring arts, crafts, and Alsatian delicacies.
- A giant Christmas tree that dominates Place Kléber.
- Traditional Christmas music and dazzling Christmas lights.
- Insider Tip: Stay in Strasbourg to fully enjoy the Christmas charm and visit nearby Petite France for even more magical views.
- Why Visit: As the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg offers one of the best Christmas experiences in Europe.
2. Colmar Christmas Market – A Fairy-Tale Experience
Colmar, nestled in the Alsace region of France, offers five different markets, each with its unique character.
These enchanting markets are spread throughout the centre of Colmar, including Petite Venise and Place Jeanne d’Arc, where visitors can enjoy Alsatian Christmas charm.
The Eguisheim Christmas Market nearby adds to its magic, making it one of the most beautiful Christmas destinations in the region and a must-visit for anyone exploring France.
- What to Expect:
- Illuminated canals and half-timbered houses in the historic centre of Colmar.
- A dedicated children’s market in Petite Venise.
- Artisanal goods and Alsatian specialties.
- Insider Tip: Take a train ride from Strasbourg to Colmar to visit both markets in one trip.
- Why Visit: Colmar’s picturesque setting and enchanting markets make it one of the best winter destinations.
3. Reims Christmas Market – A Sparkling Holiday
In the Champagne region, Reims offers a festive French experience with its Christmas market set against the backdrop of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
This enchanting market showcases over 150 chalets filled with unique arts and crafts, gourmet products, and seasonal decorations.
Known for its sparkling Champagne tastings, Reims offers visitors an unforgettable Christmas market experience in one of the best holiday destinations in France.
- What to Expect:
- Around 150 chalets selling festive décor and gourmet products.
- Champagne tastings to complement the holiday spirit.
- A lively atmosphere with Christmas music and lights.
- Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a vineyard tour to enjoy the best of Reims’ sparkling wines.
- Why Visit: The mix of historical architecture and festive cheer is truly magical.
4. Lille Christmas Market – A Multicultural Celebration
Located in northern France, Lille’s Christmas market transforms Place Rihour into a vibrant festive village filled with Christmas charm and magical lights.
Known for its multicultural flair, this market features festive music, delicious treats, and handcrafted gifts that capture the magic of Christmas holidays throughout France.
- What to Expect:
- Over 80 chalets with international crafts and treats.
- A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city.
- Warm waffles and hot chocolate to keep you cozy.
- Insider Tip: Visit the Grand Place for breathtaking light displays during Christmas time.
- Why Visit: Its multicultural flair and warm ambiance make Lille a standout destination.
5. Metz Christmas Market – A Modern Twist
Metz is famous for blending tradition with modernity, making it one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France.
Visitors can explore smaller markets throughout the city, each offering unique arts and crafts, festive French treats, and enchanting decorations.
Known for its Sentiers des Lanternes light show, Metz transforms into a magical Christmas village, making it a top destination for the holiday season.
- What to Expect:
- The magical Sentiers des Lanternes light show.
- An artisan village with unique crafts and regional delicacies.
- An indoor market perfect for stocking up on local goods.
- Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Christmas pyramid at Place Saint-Jacques.
- Why Visit: Metz’s innovative light displays add a modern flair to the festive season.
6. Paris Christmas Markets – Holiday Elegance
Paris offers a variety of Christmas markets, including the iconic Tuileries Christmas Market near the Louvre.
Known for its festive French charm, this market is a hub of holiday cheer with magical Christmas lights and enchanting decorations.
Visitors can also explore smaller markets like those in Montmartre or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, each offering unique crafts, gourmet foods, and a cozy Christmas market experience in the heart of the city.
- What to Expect:
- Luxury crafts and gourmet treats in a sophisticated setting.
- Ice rinks and Santa’s grottoes for family-friendly fun.
- Organic and sustainable holiday products.
- Insider Tip: Visit smaller markets like Montmartre for a quieter experience.
- Why Visit: Paris combines festive cheer with its signature elegance, making it a top Christmas destination.
7. Lyon Christmas Market – Culinary Highlights
Lyon’s Christmas market, located at Place Carnot, is a haven for foodies and a centerpiece of the city’s Christmas celebrations.
Known for its regional specialties like pralines and quenelles, this market also features handcrafted gifts and local wines, making it a perfect destination for those seeking festive French charm.
The city truly comes alive during the Festival of Lights, which illuminates Lyon with awe-inspiring displays that add to the magic of Christmas time.
Visitors can enjoy strolling through the market while savoring gourmet treats and discovering unique arts and crafts from talented local artisans.
- What to Expect:
- Regional specialties like pralines and quenelles.
- Awe-inspiring light displays during the Festival of Lights.
- Handcrafted gifts from local artisans.
- Insider Tip: Plan your visit during the Festival of Lights for an unforgettable experience.
- Why Visit: Lyon’s focus on gastronomy makes it a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.
8. Nice Christmas Market – A Mediterranean Twist
The south of France offers a sunny escape at Nice’s Christmas market, where the magic of Christmas meets Mediterranean charm.
This festive French destination is known for its unique blend of Provençal crafts, gourmet delicacies like lavender-infused treats, and a cheerful atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy a seaside skating rink, festive chalets, and a giant Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
During Christmas time, Nice becomes one of the most enchanting markets in France, perfect for those seeking a mix of winter wonder and sunny skies.
- What to Expect:
- A seaside skating rink and festive chalets.
- Provençal crafts and delicacies like lavender and olive oil.
- A giant Ferris wheel overlooking the Mediterranean.
- Insider Tip: Try socca, a chickpea pancake, for a local treat.
- Why Visit: The blend of sun and holiday cheer creates a unique Christmas market experience.
9. Annecy Christmas Market – A Lakeside Wonderland
Annecy’s Christmas market by the lake offers stunning views and festive charm, making it one of the most picturesque holiday destinations in France.
Nestled in the Alps, the market’s serene lakeside setting is complemented by beautifully illuminated stalls offering handcrafted gifts and Alpine delicacies like raclette and fondue.
Visitors can enjoy festive concerts and dazzling Christmas lights that reflect on the lake’s surface, creating a magical ambiance.
For those exploring Christmas markets in France, Annecy provides a unique blend of natural beauty and holiday cheer, perfect for creating unforgettable Christmas memories.
- What to Expect:
- Handcrafted goods and Alpine specialties like raclette and fondue.
- Festive concerts and dazzling Christmas lights.
- Smaller markets throughout the city.
- Insider Tip: Take a boat ride on Lake Annecy for breathtaking winter views.
- Why Visit: Its serene lakeside setting makes Annecy an enchanting market destination.
10. Montbéliard Christmas Market – A Traditional Gem
Located in the Franche-Comté region, Montbéliard’s market is a hidden gem filled with tradition and authentic Christmas magic.
Featuring over 160 beautifully illuminated chalets, it offers visitors the chance to discover unique arts and crafts, festive French treats, and local delicacies.
The market is renowned for its cultural performances, traditional carols, and enchanting Christmas lights that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
As one of the most popular Christmas markets in the region, Montbéliard captures the true spirit of the holiday season with its charming blend of history, culture, and festive cheer.
- What to Expect:
- Over 160 chalets offering crafts and festive treats.
- Stunning illuminations throughout the town.
- Traditional Christmas carols and cultural performances.
- Insider Tip: Sample brézain, a local smoked cheese.
- Why Visit: Its focus on local culture makes it one of the most authentic markets in France.
11. Bordeaux Christmas Market – A Wine Lover’s Haven
Bordeaux’s Allées de Tourny hosts a festive market perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a magical Christmas experience.
This market offers not only fine Bordeaux wines paired with artisanal cheeses but also unique arts and crafts, perfect for stocking up on local treasures.
Visitors can enjoy a festive carousel surrounded by dazzling Christmas lights and gourmet holiday foods.
Known as one of the best winter destinations in France, Bordeaux’s market beautifully blends the region’s wine culture with the enchanting spirit of Christmas.
- What to Expect:
- Fine Bordeaux wines paired with artisanal cheeses.
- A festive carousel and local crafts.
- Gourmet foods and unique holiday décor.
- Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a vineyard tour.
- Why Visit: Bordeaux’s wine culture and festive ambiance are unparalleled.
12. Arras Christmas Market – Flemish Flair
Arras combines French and Flemish traditions in its Grand Place market, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere filled with festive charm.
With over 140 beautifully decorated stalls, visitors can discover unique arts and crafts, local delicacies, and holiday gifts.
The market’s blend of French and Flemish cultures is reflected in its gourmet offerings, including waffles and other seasonal treats.
Its dazzling Christmas lights and entertainment options, such as the big wheel and seasonal rides, make it one of the most enchanting markets to visit during the Christmas holidays.
- What to Expect:
- Over 140 stalls selling crafts, foods, and gifts.
- A big wheel offering panoramic views.
- Seasonal rides and entertainment.
- Insider Tip: Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Why Visit: Its unique blend of cultures makes Arras a delightful holiday destination.
