Last Updated on March 6, 2024 by April Nicole
are you looking to Explore the Best French Christmas Markets in 2024?
As someone who has called France home for several years, I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself in one of the country’s most enchanting traditions: French Christmas markets.
These markets, known as “Marchés de Noël” in French, are not just shopping destinations; they are a festive journey through the heart of French culture during the holiday season. From the sparkling lights to the aroma of mulled wine and freshly baked treats, each market offers a unique experience.
I will take you on a tour of France’s 12 most captivating Christmas markets. You’ll discover the charming stalls, local crafts, and special holiday treats that make these markets a must-visit.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first French holiday, this guide will provide you with all the insider tips to make your visit truly magical.
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the best French Christmas Markets:
Short on time? Some of my top recommendations for French Christmas Markets Tours
- 🎅 Paris Tootbus Christmas Tour – Experience Paris at its most magical: Lit up for Christmas
- 🎄 Christmas Market Tour from Colmar – Go on a Christmas Market tour from Colmar to small villages
- ❄️ Christmas across the 3 borders – Browse Christmas markets in France, Germany, and Switzerland in one day with ease
- ⛄️ Strasbourg Christmas Market Small Group Walking Tour – See one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, with a guided tour
Best French Christmas Markets
Montbéliard
See the Montbéliard Christmas Market, which is located near Strasbourg and is one of the best in France.
A few weeks before Christmas, the well-known for its hospitality town of Montbéliard, in the Franche-Comté region of eastern France, transforms into a magical place.
Montbéliard brings back the Württemberg tradition during Advent and creates a unique Christmas market with 140 exquisite kiosks filled with genuine quality goods.
Wandering around the lit streets, visitors may enjoy the delectable French and Montbéliard cuisine, be amazed by the array of artwork and handicrafts, and dance to the tunes of choirs.
The celebration transcends the traditional Christmas market, and Montbéliard is meticulous in ensuring that the 500,000 visitors may fully experience the grandeur of the Christmas Lights.
📅Christmas market dates: From 25th November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Tourism Montbéliard
Strasbourg
If you are visiting Strasbourg in December, you really must see the Strasbourg Christmas Market, the oldest Christmas market in France. The Strasbourg Christmas Market, which is situated in the Alsace region of France, occupies the whole Old Town.
Because of its three unique zones, the Strasbourg market demands some preparation when planning your visit. Places Kléber, Broglie, Petite France, Place Gutenberg, and Place de la Cathedral come to life and change into a fantastic world during fantastic Christmas, the annual market.
The enormous fir tree on Place Kléber, the nativity scene in the cathedral, the fabled “Christkindlmärik” arch on Place Broglie, and the glowing blue tree on Place Gutenberg are all must-sees.
📅Christmas market dates: From 24th November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Christmas in Strasbourg
Colmar
The Colmar Christmas Market one of France’s largest Christmas markets, consists of six little markets interspersed around this enchanted town, rather than simply one.
Colmar’s half-timbered homes are charming even without Christmas, but the town becomes much more alluring over the holidays, drawing tourists from all around.
Colmar was awarded a prize by the Academy of Street Arts for the 1150 Christmas lights and the city’s décor. Computer-assisted fiber optics are used to weave lights throughout the town, illuminating every contour and shining and fading at whim.
Since Colmar’s downtown is pedestrian-only, nothing stands in the way of the holiday cheer. The entire town is decked out for the holidays. It seems like entering a fluorescent constellation instead of a normal one.
Pro tip: You could even make a day trip out of Colmar, which is only 35 minutes away by train from Strasbourg.
📅Christmas market dates: From 23rd November to 29th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Christmas in Colmar
Reims
France’s end-of-year celebrations would not be complete without a visit to the enchanting and fantastic Reims Christmas market.
Situated on the cathedral plaza, this market is a luminous oasis with many chalets set up to provide a variety of culinary options, handcrafted items, and stations for sampling mulled wine.
The village of artists, a kid-friendly ice rink, a miniature railroad, and a conventional crèche are all located at the Palais de Tau. Santa Claus visits and interactive devices astonish visitors to the Children’s Kingdom.
The sounds of concerts and other cultural activities fill the market every weekend. A magnificent light and sound performance complements this joyous spectacle every day. The cathedral’s illumination, which highlights every architectural element of this Gothic gem, is a moment not to be missed.
📅Christmas market dates: From 24th November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Reims Tourism
Bordeaux
Winter in Bordeaux is enchanting and focused on being seen and heard in the city. The greatest year-round shopping in Bordeaux can be found on the Allées de Tourny, especially if you want upscale stores and unique presents.
Your Bordeaux shopping list is complete when the Boulevard comes to life in December with over 100 authentic chalets from the Christmas market!
In addition to this joyous display of towering fir trees and sparkling lights, during the month of December, the city is home to many smaller, specialized pop-up Christmas markets. These are more artisan crafters, culturally unique parties, and themed gatherings than champagne and glamor.
📅Christmas market dates: From 24th November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Bordeaux Christmas market
Paris
One or more of the amazing Christmas markets in Paris are a must-see during a winter stay. The marketplaces are dispersed around the city. Every one of them is unique and offers a joyous variety of ways to embrace the festive season.
It’s best to get a hot chocolate and explore the different vendors. There will be seasonal and local cuisine specialties, music, Christmas decorations, sometimes rides and attractions, and overall good cheer!
The Tuileries Garden (previously along the Champs-Élysées), Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Saint-Sulpice, Place de la Nation, Place des Abbesses in Montmartre, Gare de l’Est, and Trocadero are some of the most well-liked Christmas Market places in Paris.
📅Christmas market dates: From 20th November to 26th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Paris tourist office
Nice
Certainly! Here’s the revised paragraph with the keyword ‘nice in the winter’ seamlessly integrated:
Lights are turned on across Nice to create a festive atmosphere for the many events that happen in December, making Nice in the winter a truly magical experience.
Even though you’re on the French Riviera, the Christmas Parade and end-of-year performance will immerse you in the holiday spirit in no time. The market, a highlight of winter in Nice, is located on Place Massena, right at the border of the charming Vieux Nice neighborhood.
More than fifty wooden chalets light up the area, offering everything from fresh socca, a traditional niçoise dish made from chickpea flour, to vin chaud, handcrafted items, and unique gifts. An added attraction is an oyster and champagne bar.
The city’s green park area is transformed too, featuring a beautifully lit Ferris wheel. The palm trees surrounding the ice skating rink are adorned with fairy lights, creating a festive vibe. There’s also a sense of exclusive festivity here, as the ice rink offers only four 1.5-hour sessions each day.
📅Christmas market dates: From 1st December 2023 to 1st January 2024 (Confirmed)
Information: Experience Côte d’Azur
Amiens
With about 130 quaint chalet-style stalls, the market is the ideal place for buying up on handmade Christmas gifts and festive decorations, as well as local crafts and food that you can eat while you browse or take home.
Some of the foods to consider are waffles with chocolate sauce and roasted chestnuts that are still warm and fragrant in their paper cones. You will also be able to taste delicacies prepared by French chefs in addition to sweet sweets.
A skating rink, vintage carousels, street entertainers, and a Santa’s procession are available for families or anybody with a youthful spirit.
You’ll also be able to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the beautiful buildings that make up the squares where the Christmas market is located, as well as the sounds of children laughing and squealing with delight.
📅Christmas market dates: From 25th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: The Christmas Village in Lille
Lille
The Lille Christmas market, which has been a tradition for more than 30 years, is becoming better and bigger. An increasing number of vendors come every year to showcase their original gift ideas and eye-catching décor.
It would be hard to discuss the Lille Christmas market without bringing up the giant Ferris Wheel. Perched majestically, it provides anyone with the courage to scale its heights with an amazing perspective over Lille’s rooftops.
The caterpillar, which is located on the Place du Théâtre, appeals to thrill-seekers and provides plenty of fun and experiences.
With Santa making frequent appearances and a little Christmas train around Place Richebé, families are sure to find what they’re looking for. There’s a gourmet stand nearby that serves a variety of sweet delights that will make both kids and adults salivate.
With a blend of wonder, exploration, and enjoyment, Lille is one of the most charming French Christmas markets. As if that weren’t enough, Lille’s heart will twinkle with a thousand lights because of the Christmas lights.
📅Christmas market dates: From 22th November to 31st December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: The Christmas Village in Lille
Metz
Metz, which is bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, is a fantastic place to visit when you’re craving Christmas markets. The major squares of the city are lined with vendors and street performers vying for your attention, making it one of the best French Christmas markets.
Place Saint Louis is the center of the celebrations, with a huge Christmas tree in the middle and nativity figures around it in different settings, as well as an ice rink and a toboggan run.
The Metz Christmas Market has traditional wooden chalets that specialize in heirloom decorations, painted ornaments, and handcrafted presents from local craftsmen.
Meanwhile, Place de la Comédie is filled with vendors offering an abundance of mouthwatering food and drink options.
📅Christmas market dates: From 24th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: The Christmas Village in Lille
Mulhouse
Searching for a distinctive experience at a Christmas market? Your first choice should be Mulhouse. This market is unique because of its extraordinary history.
Actually, the city releases a brand-new Christmas fabric—a beautiful cloth made especially for the celebrations—each year. This theme is used to decorate the town hall, the chalets, and even the tram, which adds to the city’s unmatched appeal.
The Place de la Réunion, the center of the festivities and home to a stately antique carousel, is the focal point of the Mulhouse market’s organizing.
A short distance away, children may participate in events held in the courtyard of the Temple Saint-Étienne, such as a workshop for crafting Christmas baubles.
📅Christmas market dates: From 24th November to 23rd December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Christmas in Mulhouse
Arras
Arras really pulls out the red carpet for their Christmas market, which is housed on the stunning Grand Place and covered in crimson carpeting.
Hundreds of Christmas trees surround the 140+ booths, and thousands of lights adorn the Flemish-style structures.
Fun for the entire family, the classic carousel is situated beside the ice rink and sledge run. In addition, the Winter Bar offers a glass of champagne to pair with your favorite oysters.
📅Christmas market dates: From 25th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed)
Information: Arras Tourism
French Christmas markets France 2024 FAQ
When Do French Christmas Markets Start?
French Christmas markets typically commence in late November, coinciding with the Advent season. These festive markets, renowned for their seasonal charm, extend through December, offering a delightful blend of traditional crafts, culinary delights, and holiday cheer.
Where Is the Best Christmas Market in France?
The title of “Best Christmas Market in France” is often bestowed upon Strasbourg. Renowned for its enchanting atmosphere, traditional crafts, and regional specialties, Strasbourg’s Christmas market stands out as one of the most celebrated and cherished in the country.
Where Are the Christmas Markets in Paris 2024?
In 2024, Paris hosts Christmas markets at iconic locations such as Tuileries Garden and Montmartre. These markets showcase festive delights, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats, contributing to the city’s enchanting holiday atmosphere. Read more about the best Christmas markets in Paris here.
What Do French Christmas Markets Sell?
Look out for regional specialties like Provencal soaps, Alsace pottery, and gourmet treats such as mulled wine spices. These markets offer a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind gifts that capture the essence of French holiday traditions.
Are French Christmas markets suitable for families?
Absolutely! French Christmas markets are family-friendly, offering activities for children like carousel rides, visits from Santa Claus, and festive workshops. The magical atmosphere and array of treats make it a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Final Thoughts on French Christmas Markets
Experience the magic of the holiday season at France’s Christmas markets! From the charming streets of Strasbourg to the festive atmosphere of Paris, each market offers a unique blend of tradition and cheer.
Indulge in delectable treats like mulled wine and local delicacies, while the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air.
France Travel Planning 🇫🇷
Accommodation 🛌
- Booking.com – Find diverse accommodations, enjoy easy booking with great deals, and rely on real reviews and 24/7 support.
- Expedia.com – With its user-friendly interface, it simplifies the process of booking hotels and holiday packages to France.
- VRBO.com – Your go-to platform for unique and comfortable vacation rentals in France.
Transportation 🚘
- DiscoverCars.com – Offers a seamless booking experience, ensuring you find the ideal car for your adventures in France.
- GetTransfer.com – Is the ultimate solution for your travel transfer needs, offering an efficient, flexible service and comfortable transportation.
- Trainline.com stands as a quintessential tool for savvy travelers seeking to navigate France’s extensive rail network with ease and confidence.
- Skyscanner.com – Simplifies your travel planning with its user-friendly interface, offering a comprehensive comparison of flights.
Attractions, Activities and Tours 🇫🇷
- Viator.com – Stands out as a trusted resource for travelers seeking unparalleled experiences across the globe.
- GetYourGuide.com – Offers an extensive collection of tours, activities, and attractions in France.
- ParisCityVision.com – This tour company specializes in crafting exceptional experiences across Paris and France.
Communication 📱
- Orange Sim Card – Discover seamless connectivity on your French travels with an Orange Holiday Europe Sim Card, a top choice for tourists.
- Airalo.com – The world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving travelers access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards).
Travel Insurance ✈️
- SafetyWing.com – Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re protected in almost every corner of the world.
- Travel Insurance Master – Visit their website to discover the ideal insurance plan that aligns with your travel dreams.
These are only a few of my favorites; for more, see my comprehensive guide to the top travel booking websites for France.
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