While the original European Christkindlmarkt finds its origins in Germany, the festive phenomenon has spread like wildfire throughout the continent – here are the best Christmas markets in France.
If you’re looking for the perfect place to soak up the seasonal spirit while in la République, these are the best Christmas markets in France.
From Paris to Nice and everywhere in between, French Christmas markets offer a distinctive feel from those found elsewhere in Europe.
We already know the European country knows how to do food, offering an abundance of bread, cheese, pastries, and more. And there’s nowhere better to enjoy the best of French produce than a festive Christmas market.
So, if you happen to be in France this Christmas, here are some of the best Christmas markets you need to check out.
10. Mulhouse Christmas Market – with links to the city’s rich history of fabrics and textiles
Taking place from 24 November to 27 December 2021, Mulhouse is home to one of the best Christmas markets in France.
With a link to the city’s rich history and textile industry, a trip to this fantastic market is like taking a step back in time.
Address: 17 Pl. de la Réunion, 68100 Mulhouse, France
9. Arras Christmas Market – for a traditional feel
Located in the brilliant Grand’Place, Arras Christmas Market is set to take place from 29 November to 30 December this year.
Filled with twinkling lights, traditional stalls, and lots of fairground rides, there’s plenty to see and do here.
Address: Grand’Place, 62000 Arras, France
8. Montbéliard Christmas Market – for fun festivities
The beautiful town centre of Montbéliard completely transforms during the festive season. Coming to life with Christmas lights and over 160 festive stalls, this is a must-visit.
Dates for this year’s market are set to take place from 27 November to 28 December 2021.
Address: 10 Rue de l’Hôtel de ville, 25200 Montbéliard, France
7. Paris Christmas Market – experience Christmas in the City of Lights
December in Paris is just magical. The French capital is known as both the City of Love and the City of Lights. Thus, making it the perfect place to spend the festive season.
With various markets taking place throughout the city, you’re sure to find one that tickles your fancy. However, we recommend the one in Boulevard Saint-Germain.
Address: 147 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France
6. Colmar Christmas Market – a traditional European town
This enchanting old town is perhaps the closest thing you’ll get to a traditional Christkindlmarkt feel outside of Germany.
The charming town of Colmar is full of buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, making it a must-visit at any time of year. However, if you’re in the region between 29 November and 29 December, you’re in luck!
Address: Pl. de l’Ancienne Douane, 68000 Colmar, France
5. Lille Christmas Market – one of the best Christmas markets in France
As the days grow colder and shorter, you can warm up at the bright and colourful Lille Christmas Market.
Lille boasts various stalls, fairground rides, and food and drinks galore. This market is planned for 19 November to 30 December 2021.
Address: 90 Pl. Rihour, 59800 Lille, France
4. Reims Christmas Market – for an idyllic location
Located in front of the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, which is coloured in lights come the festive season, is Reims Christmas Market.
Dates for this year’s market are 26 November to 24 December, so you have a month to make the most of all the wares on offer here.
Address: Pl. du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France
3. Metz Christmas Market – with plenty to see and do across the city
Set for 19 November to 30 December, Metz Christmas Market is not to be missed.
As France’s second most popular festive market, there is plenty to see and enjoy here. Warm up with a hot chocolate or mulled wine as you wander the Frozen Fairyland of stunning ice sculptures.
Address: Place de la répubique, 57130 Moulins-lès-Metz, France
2. Amiens Christmas Market – lots to discover
Planned for 23 November to 31 December, Amiens Christmas Market has been a firm favourite among tourists and locals since it first opened in 1997.
Amiens hosts an abundance of festive chalets selling everything from delicious food to gorgeous flowers, locally-made crafts, and more. You’ll be spoilt for choice of festive delights.
Address: 47-29 Rue des 3 Cailloux, 80000 Amiens, France
1. Strasbourg Christmas Market – among the oldest Christmas markets in Europe
No list of the best Christmas markets in France would be complete without mentioning Strasbourg.
The city in Northern France is actually home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to the 16th-century. Located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this year’s market is due to take place from 26 November until 26 December.
Address: 24 Rue Thomann, 67000 Strasbourg, France
