Best Christmas Markets in France - France Christmas Itinerary

Share it

Christmas Markets in France are warm, charming, and full of old-world magic. From small wooden stalls glowing with lights to the smell of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and fresh pastries, France Christmas markets are not very loud. They feel cozy, romantic, and deeply traditional.

You may also like to read👉🏼: Best Christmas Markets in Prague – Things To Do In Prague in Winter

Contents show

Christmas Markets in France – France Christmas Itinerary

If you are wondering Christmas in France where to go, this guide will help you plan a festive and memorable holiday. In this article, you will read about how to celebrate Christmas in France with the best Christmas markets in France, why they are worth visiting, festive things to do (with reasons), tours and attractions, nearby mid-budget hotels, valuable tips, and FAQs.

You may also like to read👉🏼:Best 3-Day London Christmas Itinerary – London for Christmas

Why Visit Christmas Markets in France?

France celebrates Christmas in a very traditional way. Markets are not just for shopping; they are about food, local crafts, music, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Here’s why France is special during Christmas:

Markets are beautifully decorated but not overcrowded like some other countries
Each region has its own food, decorations, and customs
Easy travel by train between cities
Great mix of famous markets and quite small-town markets
Romantic atmosphere perfect for couples and families

If you want a slow, beautiful, and meaningful Christmas experience, Christmas in France throughout December is a great choice.

Strasbourg – The Capital of Christmas

Location: Alsace region, eastern France
Main Market: Christkindelsmärik (Place Broglie & Grande Île)

Strasbourg is often called the Capital of Christmas. It has one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 1500s. The entire old town becomes festive, not just one square.

Christmas Festive Things to Do in Strasbourg, France

Walk through multiple markets: Over 300 stalls spread across the old town, so it never feels boring
See the Great Christmas Tree: One of the tallest decorated Christmas trees in Europe
Try Alsatian food: Flammekueche, sausages, gingerbread, and hot wine are local favorites
Evening strolls: The half-timber houses look magical under Christmas lights

Tours & Attractions

Strasbourg Cathedral visit
Guided Christmas market walking tour
Boat ride on the Ill River with winter views

Stay Options Near the Market – Hotel Gutenberg – Steps from the cathedral or Hotel Hannong – Comfortable and central

Useful Tips

Visit markets in the morning for fewer crowds
Dress warmly; evenings can be freezing
Try white mulled wine – it’s special to Alsace

Colmar – A Fairytale Christmas Town

Location: Alsace region
Main Markets: Old Town, Little Venice, Place Jeanne d’Arc

Colmar looks like a storybook village with colorful houses and canals. At Christmas, it becomes even more magical. It feels peaceful and less crowded than Strasbourg.

Christmas Festive Things to Do in Colmar

Explore 5 small markets: Each market has a different theme, making it fun to explore
Walk through Little Venice: Lights reflect on the canals, creating beautiful views
Shop for handmade gifts: Wood toys, ornaments, and local crafts

Tours & Attractions

Colmar old town walking tour
Alsace wine tasting nearby
Day trip to Strasbourg

Hotel Stay Near the Market – Hotel Saint-Martin – Right in the old town, or Hotel Le Colombier – Cozy and well-located

Useful Tips

Stay overnight to enjoy quiet evenings
Markets close earlier than big cities
Perfect for couples and photography lovers

Paris – Christmas Markets with Iconic Views

Location: Northern France
Main Markets: Tuileries Garden, La Défense, Montmartre

Paris is romantic all year, but Christmas adds warmth and sparkle. Markets may be smaller, but the city itself feels festive with lights and decorations.

Christmas Festive Things to Do in Paris

Visit the Tuileries Christmas Market: Central location with food, gifts, and rides
See Christmas lights on Champs-Élysées: Simple but beautiful
Enjoy winter cafés: Hot chocolate and pastries taste better in cold weather
River Seine cruise: See illuminated monuments at night

Tours & Attractions

Eiffel Tower visit
Seine dinner cruise
Louvre Museum (less crowded in winter)

Stay Options Near the Market – Hotel Louvre Bons Enfants or Hotel du Continent

Useful Tips

Markets change location every year; check dates
Paris markets focus more on food than crafts
Combine markets with sightseeing

Reims – Christmas with Champagne

Location: Champagne region
Main Market: Place d’Erlon

Reims blends Christmas markets with its champagne culture. It’s elegant, relaxed, and a perfect way to celebrate Christmas in France for a short festive break.

Christmas Festive Things to Do

Visit the Christmas village: Cozy stalls with food and gifts
Champagne tasting: Celebrate Christmas in a unique way
Cathedral visit: Beautiful light displays in winter

Tours & Attractions

Champagne house tours
Reims Cathedral visit
Day trip from Paris

Hotel Stays Near the Market – Hotel Centre Cathédrale or Best Western Premier Hôtel de la Paix

Useful Tips

Book champagne tours early
Markets are smaller but charming
Ideal for a calm holiday

Lyon – Christmas Lights & Festive Markets

Location: Southeast France
Main Market: Place Carnot

Lyon is famous for the Festival of Lights in December. The Christmas market adds warmth and local flavor to the city.

Christmas Festive Things to Do in Lyon

Explore Place Carnot market: Local food and handmade gifts
Enjoy the Festival of Lights: Buildings light up beautifully
Taste Lyon food: Cheeses, sausages, and sweets

Tours & Attractions

Old town walking tour
Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
Food tasting tour

Hotels Near the Market – Hotel Chromatics or Hotel Alexandra

Useful Tips

Festival of Lights attracts crowds
Stay near public transport
Try local chocolates and sweets

My Favorite France Christmas Itinerary (7 Days)

Day 1–2: Paris
Day 3: Reims (day trip or overnight)
Day 4: Strasbourg
Day 5: Colmar
Day 6: Lyon
Day 7: Return or relax

This France Christmas itinerary combines big cities and small towns.

Useful Tips for Christmas in France

Most markets run from late November to December 23–24
Shops may close early on Christmas Eve
Sundays are lively in market areas
Carry enough change or cash, as it is good to buy something at small stalls
Dress in layers and wear good walking shoes

FAQs – Christmas Markets in France

What is the best place for Christmas markets in France?

Strasbourg and Colmar are the most famous, especially for traditional markets.

Is December a good time to visit France?

Yes. December is for festive markets, fewer tourists, and beautiful decorations.

Are Christmas markets in France expensive?

Food and gifts are reasonably priced in all towns except Paris.

Christmas in France is calm, charming, and deeply traditional. Whether you explore the fairytale streets of Alsace or enjoy festive evenings in Paris, France Christmas markets offer a warm and unforgettable winter experience. If you’re deciding where to go for Christmas in France, start with Strasbourg and Colmar, and base your trip there.

Best Christmas Markets in France – France Christmas Itinerary