Ah, the holidays! The season of magic and wonder and some seriously chic Christmas markets! You won’t believe the enchanting spirit that fills the air in France, especially in places like Paris. Let me take you on a whirlwind tour of the best Christmas markets in the France and turn your wildest Yuletide dreams into reality!
France is my top pick for a getaway any time of year, but there’s nothing quite like seeing it in all its festive glory in December. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this. From magic-filled landscapes to cozy accommodations and ice skating galore, this guide is the ultimate cheat sheet for experiencing the most wondrous Christmas markets in France!
Get ready to indulge in one of the best Christmas traditions in France – the Christmas markets! These markets are so popular that some are even world-famous! Can you believe it?
Hundreds of markets are organized throughout the country, so feel free to follow this guide or use it as inspiration to create your own jolly holiday adventure in beautiful France. Trust me, with all the festive lights, delicious treats, and unique gifts, it’ll be a magical experience you won’t want to miss!
Are you excited to start planning your incredible trip to the magical Christmas Markets in France? I can help you with all the deets! These markets, known as the Marchés de Noël, are immensely popular events that light up the streets with joy and cheer from late November till the end of December. You can expect to marvel at enchanting lights, the aroma of freshly-baked gingerbread, and other traditional French delights that will undoubtedly get you in the holiday spirit!
What better place to spend the holidays than in France! I mean, have you seen their Christmas markets? They’re a picture-perfect postcard that’ll make Bing Crosby’s White Christmas look like amateur hour. But don’t worry, I’ve done the hard work for you, and I’m sharing my top three favorite Christmas markets in France.
Let’s dive into the most charming markets on this side of the North Pole. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just want to bask in the holiday spirit, these markets have got you covered.
You really thought I was just going to skip this iconic city?? You can never go wrong with Paris, but this place really shines during the holidays! We have gone to Paris two years in a row to catch the Christmas markets, and you will find anywhere from 15-20 markets around the city. Check out all the details about visiting Parisian Christmas Markets below.
NOTRE DAME DE PARIS CHRISTMAS MARKET: One of the most iconic spots in Paris dressed in holiday flair and overlooking the Notre Dame (currently in renovation). It can be found across the Seine river in Square Viviani and you will find local artists selling handcrafted gifts.
Let’s get the most important thing out of the way, you do not want to miss the iconic Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette. Chances are it’s already on your list, but had to give this spot an honorable mention.
Another festive thing to do in Paris during the holidays is to check out all the beautiful Christmas window displays of the Grand Magasins.
CURRENCY: Euro. Although most Christmas markets accept card, it’s always good to have cash on hand.
Best Food at Christmas Markets: Raclette, roasted chestnuts, crêpes, tartiflette, churros, aligot, tarte flambée, bretzels, pain d’épices and more!
Average Weather in Paris in December: High of 47°F/8.3°C with a low of 39°C/3.8°C
Are you ready to fall in love with Paris all over again? It’s not just about the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered!
Trust me, you won’t want to miss the cozy cafes that transport you to a movie set or the secret gems where you won’t have to queue for hours. I know, it sounds too good to be true – but my smart and savvy friend has curated the ultimate guide to Parisian delights. So don’t be a basic tourist, and check out @croissantsandcafes INCREDIBLE GUIDE to Paris here.
If you think it can’t get any better than Christmas in Paris, than you haven’t been to Strasbourg! Did you know it’s world famous??? It is the location of France’s oldest Christmas market and the Capital of Christmas so you know it’s going to be GOOD!!!
Strasbourg is France’s oldest Christmas market and attracts over 2 million visitors every year! But it’s not just the Christmas markets that attract so many visitors every year. Streets are lined with the most beautiful window displays and twinkling Christmas lights.
Paris is overrated when it comes to Strasbourg, making this one of the best Christmas markets in France! The cozy, colorful cottages found throughout this town cover their window sills with the most elaborate Christmas decorations and lights are strung throughout all the streets.
Where: 300 of the cutest wooden chalets are set up throughout old town Strasbourg. More details can be found here.
When: Late November- Late December
Cost: Free! There are costs associated with Food.
Food: Fresh pretzels, Spaetzle and Crepes
Things not to miss: Strasbourg Christmas Market at Place de la Cathédrale, Alsatian Delicacies Market at Place du Marché-des-Poissons and the Patio of Palais Rohan, International Christmas Market at Place Gutenberg, Carré d’Or Christmas Market at Place du Temple-Neuf
This is the best part of the post, so listen up!!! Because I just want you live out your Christmas fantasies here. This is what it must feel like to wake up in a fairytale, because every inch of this town is like something out of a movie and you won’t find a more magical place in Europe! Believe me when I say you won’t find any Christmas markets in Europe better than this one!
There are 6 Christmas markets in Colmar and each one has its own theme! Best part is they’re all within walking distance of each other.
Enjoy your time in Colmar, I guarantee you won’t want to leave once you step foot in this enchanting town!
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