15 Magical Christmas Markets in France That Are Straight Out of a Fairytale

Author: Kylie Lang

Last updated on July 7th, 2026 at 10:16 am

I’m like a big kid at Christmas and can’t wait to put up my tree in December, get the mulled wine (vin chaud here in France) ready, and start enjoying the festive season. One of my favorite things to do during this time is to visit the markets. I love the fact that most of the Christmas markets in France start at the end of November, so I get to enjoy them for as long as possible.

Having said that, there are so many of them now that it’s hard to know where to go. From ice skating rinks, Ferris wheels, and beautiful log cabins decked in holly and lights to the steaming mugs of hot chocolate, champagne bars, and roasted chestnuts, it’s Christmas on steroids.

So I’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of my favorites. And I’m not just featuring the big, well-known markets because you already know you want to visit those. I’m also highlighting the hidden gems I’ve discovered since moving to France. 

They are off the beaten track, where the Christmas decorations shine just as brightly but with far fewer crowds.

Listen to a Podcast Episode on French Christmas Markets

My 15 Favorite Christmas Markets in France

No. 1 Strasbourg Christmas Market 2025 (Alsace)

A Christmas sign lit up with stars highlighting the best Strasbourg Christmas Market

The Strasbourg Christmas Markets, also known as “Les Marchés de Noël de Strasbourg,” are some of the most famous and picturesque Christmas markets in Europe.  There are some gorgeous Christmas Markets in the Alsace region, and Strasbourg is the biggest.

Strasbourg, often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas“, is located in the Alsace region of France and borders Germany. You can get there from Paris in under two hours.

Christmas takes over the entire city, as it doesn’t have just one Christmas market, but several spread throughout the squares in Grande Île, part of the historic centre.

The exact number can vary from year to year, but there are usually around 10 to 12 distinct markets.

Strasbourg Cathedral Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik) is the most famous and oldest set in front of the Gothic cathedral. 

My favourite is in Place Kléber. It’s where the huge, 30m Christmas Tree sits along with the ice rink. I love seeing people ice skate in winter, especially at Christmas time. 

A Christmas Market Stall selling food and drink in front of a cathedral with people walking around during the day

But the ambience isn’t the only great thing about this market; the food is pretty damn good, too.

You have to try the Choucroute Garnie, an Alsatian dish featuring sauerkraut served with a variety of sausages.

And if you want something a little lighter, go with the Flammekueche (Tarte Flambée), a thin, crispy flatbread topped with a mixture of cream, onions, and bacon.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE STRASBOURG CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 2 Colmar Christmas Market 2025 (Alsace)

An evening Christmas scene outside in a French village with a river running through it and old half-timbered buildings either side

The town of Colmar is also located in the Alsace region of France and is known as the “Capital of Alsatian Wine”. 

It’s a beautiful, well-preserved old town with colorful half-timbered houses and scenic canals.

This picturesque setting makes it a perfect backdrop for the festive Christmas markets.

Colmar plays host to six Christmas markets, fewer than its neighbour, Strasbourg, but plenty to keep you occupied.

No. 1 Marché de Noël de la Place des Dominicains: You’ll find 60+ stalls set up in front of the church, with the main feature being the beautiful stained glass window. When it’s lit up at night, it really takes your breath away.

No. 2 Place Jeanne d’Arc Market: This is one of the largest and most central markets in Colmar. It features numerous stalls selling traditional Christmas crafts, decorations, and, of course, Alsatian food. 

The marketplace of a Christmas Market in France with a white Xmas tree wiht red baubles, half-timbered buildings and people walking around

No. 3 Little Venice Market: Located in the heart of Colmar’s “Little Venice” district, this market is designed specifically with kids in mind. You can even post a letter to Père Noël (Father Christmas) in the red post box.

No. 4 Place de l’Ancienne Douane Market: This market is famous for its beautifully decorated wooden stalls and the stunning setting of the Old Customs House. It’s a great spot to shop for unique gifts and ornaments.

No. 5 Koïfhus Market: The Koïfhus (Customs House) is a historic building in Colmar, built in 1480. It hosts a smaller indoor Christmas market. It’s a cosy place to shop for handicrafts and stay warm.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE COLMAR CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 3 Reims Christmas Market 2025 (Marne)

A see through snow globe with xmas decorations against a blue sky at the Reims Christmas Market

Knowing that Reims is home to most of the major champagne houses, it’s the perfect place to put some sparkle into your French Christmas experience.

Just a short 45-minute train journey from Paris, you could enjoy the Christmas markets that both cities have to offer.

Not to mention that Reims is the 3rd largest Christmas market in France, with over 1.5 million visitors each year.

The wow factor of this market is definitely Rêve de Couleurs (Dream of Colours). It’s a spectacular light show set to a dramatic musical score. Done at night, it lights up the Gothic cathedral so you can see it for miles around.

There is also a fun fair with over 80 rides, a beautiful nativity scene in the Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral, and a huge Ferris wheel to take in the sights.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE REIMS CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 4 Annecy Christmas Market 2025 (Haute-Savoie)

Twilight over Annecy, known as the Venice of the Alps, with its historic Palais de l'Isle jail illuminated and reflecting on the calm canal waters. Surrounding the canal, vibrant building facades with glowing windows and bustling restaurants create a cozy atmosphere, while the soft lights cast golden hues on the water, enhancing the town's picturesque charm.

Xmas in the Alps (Noël des Alpes) is magical, and in Annecy, it’s the largest event in their annual calendar, with around half a million people flocking to the region.

Against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, there are three main Christmas markets to visit:

  • Marché de Noël du Vieil Annecy – Here, you’ll find 80 or so stalls, or chalets, set up around the churches of St. François-de-Sales and St. Maurice in the old town.
  • Village des Alpes – This is where you’ll find the ice skating rink, complete with a DJ and stage for live music, located on François de Menthon, surrounded by wooden chalets.
  • Village des Artisans – A smaller market with arts and crafts right in front of the big Christmas tree

However, one of the most spectacular sights to see is the sound and light show projected onto the Hôtel de Ville.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE ANNECY CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 5 The Tuileries Christmas Markets – La Magie de Noël (Paris)

Visiting the city of lights at Christmas is like a dream come true and like stepping into a scene from a movie. 

Paris has plenty of Christmas markets to enjoy, but I think my favorite is the Tuileries Christmas Market.

I’m a sucker for an ice rink, which this one has, and I love the fact that it’s a fun fair and Christmas market combined.

An ice rink in Paris at the Tuileries Christmas Market with people skating and chalets all around

All in all, there are probably around 20 markets, including the pop-up ones, so plenty to choose from.

The other one I like is at the front of the Hotel de Ville, where they usually have a carousel. It’s festive and very pretty, with all the usual trimmings you’d expect to see.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE TUILERIES CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 6 Bordeaux Christmas Market 2025 (Aquitaine)

Best known for its wine, Bordeaux knows how to put on a show at Christmas, with or without snow. Several markets spring up around the city, but the biggest, without a doubt, is Marché de Noël de Bordeaux.

There are around 150 stalls selling everything you can think of, including toys, decorations, handmade goods, local produce, and of course, plenty of yummy treats and vin chaud (mulled wine).

A Christmas market in France at night with a chalet lit up in bright green

They also have lots of great workshops for kids and adults alike, most of which are free, so it’s always best to book in advance.

And then there is the entertainment. They have a variety of musical groups singing Christmas carols and other types of music, plus the usual face painting, juggling, clowns, and even a battle reenactment. 

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE BORDEAUX CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 7 Lyon Christmas Market 2025 (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)

This image shows a vibrant building facade illuminated by colorful lights during what appears to be a nighttime festival, possibly the Fête des Lumières in Lyon, France. The ornate architecture of the building, likely a historic or cultural site, is lit up with striking hues of red, orange, blue, and purple, creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere with a crowd gathered in the foreground.

If you love light shows, then this is the place to be from Thu, Dec 5, 2025, to Sun, Dec 8, 2025. The Fête des Lumiere (Festival of Light), is a sound and light extravaganza. 

The city is illuminated with 80 massive light installations designed by artists from around the world, transforming Lyon into a showcase city.

It’s perfect for the festive season.

There are two Christmas markets in Lyon to enjoy. The oldest is held in the heart of this university city at Place Carnot. There are over 135 wooden chalets set up, where you’ll find all the usual Christmas fare.

The second is a covered market at Place de la Croix-Rousse, featuring approximately 40 chalets that showcase artisanal arts and crafts.

Remember to try Praluline, a brioche filled with pink sugared almonds, originating from Lyon. And Saucisson Chaud, a fat sausage served in a baguette, which is very much of the Lyonnaise street food scene.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE LYON CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 8 Metz Christmas Market 2025 (Lorraine Grand Est)

The Metz Cathedral lit up with warm golden light, next to the glowing Ferris wheel, as crowds of visitors stroll through the bustling Christmas market stalls below. The festive energy fills the cobblestone square, illuminated by decorative lights.

Just a 90-minute trip from Strasbourg, the Metz Christmas Market is the second-largest in France and is spread across five different locations.

  • Place Saint Louis – This is where the original Christmas Market was situated and is home to the medieval buildings that make Metz so historic.
  • Place de la République – Home to the outdoor ice skating rink and the iconic Xmas pyramid.
  • Place d’Armes – Go here if you’d like a ride on the Ferris Wheel
  • Place Saint-Jacques – The beautiful Christmas village and merry-go-round can be found here. You’ll also find lots of lovely cafes here.
  • Place de la Comédie – You’ll find a fabulous gourmet market here, which is heaven for a foodie like me.

And don’t forget to go to Place de Chambre, where you’ll see about twenty heated see-through bubbles that form the igloo village. It’s so much fun!

Finally, there is the “Sentier des Lanternes” (lantern-lit path), which sits on the Moselle River.

You can stroll along in the evening and come face-to-face with different characters who bring the walk to life.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE METZ CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 9 Lille Christmas Market 2025 (Nord)

Lille is one of the smaller Christmas markets, but it still gets nearly a million visitors each year. At the centre of it all is the Ferris Wheel in the Grand Place, providing fabulous views of this historic old city.

The main market is held at Place Rihour, featuring 87 stalls showcasing regional products and those from further afield.

Take a walk to the Place du Théâtre to see the vintage carousel and take the Christmas Train from Place Richebé that starts every day at 2 pm.

A colorful night scene at Lille Christmas Market, featuring a large Ferris wheel and a towering Christmas tree, both brightly lit against the night sky, surrounded by festive decorations and historic buildings.

Don’t forget to try some of the regional food as well. Being so close to the Belgian border, there is definitely a Flemish influence. Some to look out for are Meert gaufres, potjevleesch, and Carbonade flamande.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE LILLE CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 10 Nantes Christmas Market 2025 (Loire-Atlantique)

As the largest Christmas Market in western France, it certainly has something to live up to, and it doesn’t disappoint.

There are two markets, both within walking distance of each other, on Place du Commerce and Place Royale, with 100+ stalls set up. You’ll find all the usual culprits, including a beautiful carousel, plenty of gingerbread, and lots of mulled wine.

Everything kicks off at the inauguration event, and this is where they put their creativity to good use. A parade of white stilt walkers kicks everything off, and it’s quite a sight to see.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE NANTE CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 11 Rouen Christmas Market 2025 (Normandy)

A Christmas market set up in front of an old gothic cathedral in Rouen in France

It’s the capital of Normandy and is where Joan of Arc was condemned to death. Not very Christmassy, I know, but it’s a historic city with a story to tell. I’ve stayed here a few times now, and it’s one of the most stunning cities, with all the half-timbered buildings beautifully decorated for Christmas.

The market, known as Rouen Givrée, is held on Place de la Cathédrale, in front of the Gothic cathedral. The 42 stalls feature only artisans from the Normandy region, which I rather like. And as the city has a UNESCO award for gastronomie you know the food stalls will be amazing.

On Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, Father Christmas is available for visits between 2-7 p.m.

As is popular with so many French Christmas markets, there is a gorgeous vintage carousel at the foot of the cathedral.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE ROUEN CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 12 Sarlat Christmas Market 2025 (Dordogne)

Sarlat, or Sarlat-la-Canéda to give the town its full name, is one of the most picturesque medieval villages in the Dordogne region. It’s also home to the renowned truffle festival, held annually in January.

And at Christmas, they take things up a notch with not one but two covered ice rinks in Place de la Grande Rigaudie and over 70 stalls for you to enjoy.

Its beautiful cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings are the perfect backdrop for the Christmas market.

This image features a festive street scene in what appears to be the medieval town of Sarlat, France, during the holiday season. The street is lined with historic stone buildings, and a large Christmas tree decorated with red and gold ornaments stands prominently in the foreground. Crowds of people are gathered, likely exploring the Christmas market, while the steeple of a historic building looms in the background, adding to the quaint charm of the setting.

Each year, Sarlat showcases Christmas in a different country. They haven’t announced which country it will be yet for 2025, so we’ll have to wait and see.

At the entrance to the market, you’ll find some boards set up for the obligatory selfie and a post box for your Santa letters. 

All the activities are free, and it’s like something out of a Christmas movie, as they even have a horse-drawn carriage for you to ride in.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE SARLAT CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 13 Carcassonne Christmas Market 2025 (Aude)

I’m probably biased here because I fell in love with Carcassonne a few years ago when I read the Kate Mosse books. But the walled city of Carcassonne at Christmas is another level.

It’s the most magical place I’ve ever been to.

Seeing the citadel lit up even more than usual takes your breath away. It’s no wonder they call it Le Magie de Noël, the magic of Christmas.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the Canal du Midi from the Ferris wheel at Santa Claus Park, on square André Chenier.

Tuck into a crispy churro or waffle by the side of the ice rink at Place Carnot, and wander around the wooden chalets filled with Christmas goodies. 

It all starts with the Feast Day of St. Nicholas on December 6th, which is usually the day the markets open.

La Marche aux Flambeaux, a torchlight march, sees hundreds of people take to the streets carrying torches.

Many of them are in Medieval costumes, and they march from La Cité to La Bastide’s Place Carnot. 

The pièce de résistance is Le Rooftop de Noël, Carcassonne’s Christmas Sky Bar with stunning views of La Cité.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE CARCASSONNE CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 14 Riquewihr Christmas Market 2025 (Alsace)

A large Christmas tree stands in the center of a town square, with bright string lights radiating from the top, creating a magical atmosphere as market-goers explore the surrounding stalls
Photo Credit: © Vincent Schneider

As the inspiration for Belle’s hometown in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Riquewihr is like stepping into the pages of a fairytale book.

And during the festive period, it gets even better by giving you a glimpse into a real Alsatian Christmas.

The traditional Christmas market is set against a backdrop of medieval half-timbered buildings and snowcapped mountains.

Every Friday and Saturday night, the old buildings are illuminated in a fabulous display of colour, showcasing the town’s historic architecture.

And don’t forget to taste some of the local produce, especially the Bredelas, a selection of lovely little biscuits.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE RIQUEWIHR CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 15 Arras Christmas Market 2025

Arras rolls out the red carpet for their Christmas market quite literally, as it’s carpeted in red and held on the beautiful Grand’Place.

The Flemish-style buildings are lit up with thousands of lights, and the 140+ stalls are surrounded by hundreds of Christmas trees.

The traditional carousel shares the stage with the ice rink and sledge run, providing amusement for the whole family.

And if you love oysters, the Winter Bar serves them with a glass of champagne to wash them down.

On Place des Héros, the light show floods the belfry, and you can see Father Christmas climbing down to deliver his presents; it’s quite a sight.

And a favorite for the kids is the Elves’ Village on the Place du Théâtre.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE ARRAS CHRISTMAS MARKET

The Christmas in France Guide

The Oldest Christmas Market in France

The oldest Christmas Market dates back to 1570 and is in the beautiful city of Strasbourg, the capital of Christmas.

The market, known as Christkindelsmärik, began as a one-day event to allow citizens to stock up on supplies for the harsh winter.

A sign with the Christkindelsmarik sign and two giant candy canes either side at night and people walking around

Over the centuries, it has grown in size and duration, transforming into the month-long celebration it is today.

Despite challenges such as the plague in the 17th century and World War II in the 20th century, the market persisted and evolved, becoming an integral part of the city’s cultural identity.

What makes French Christmas Markets so special

In France, Christmas Markets have become an institution that marks the start of Advent.

They spring up all over the country in the last week of November and are like little self-contained twinkling villages.

They make December in France a wonderful month. 

A tall Xmas Tree lit at night and reflected in the square in front of it with lit buildings behind

The stalls, which are chalets made of wood, are adorned with Christmas lights and decorations, transforming them into a beautiful winter wonderland.

You can sip a mug of vin chaud (mulled wine) or hot chocolate, indulge in some pretzels and other tasty delights, and enjoy browsing the handmade products you’ll see everywhere.

FAQS: Visiting the French Christmas Markets

Where is the best Christmas market in France?

Strasbourg’s Christmas market is often considered the best in France. But it’s closely followed by Reims, Colmar, Lille, and Paris.

What is the most Christmassy town in France?

​​Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” and is the most Christmassy town in France.

What is the most famous Christmas market in Paris?

 La Magie de Noël (“The Magic of Christmas”) in Tuileries Garden next to the Louvre has taken over the old Christmas market on the Champs-Élysées.

What is the biggest and best Christmas market in Europe?

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt in Germany is often regarded as one of the largest and finest Christmas markets in Europe.

Final thoughts: Christmas markets in France

There really is no better place to be at Christmas than in France. The markets are picturesque and still have that olde world charm of centuries gone by. 

The wooden chalets, vintage carousels, ice rinks, and, of course, the food make visiting a Christmas market in France something that should be top of your list during December.

You might also like:
A Traditional French Christmas Dinner and
21 French Christmas Traditions

TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?

Here are my favourite resources I use each time I travel!

🧳 I always protected my trips with this travel insurance company when I lived in the US AND this one now I live in Europe​

🚘 I found a car rental for $500 less than traditional sites with this car rental agency​

🚌 🍷 My favourite platform to find Day Trips and Wine Tours in France at the best price and with great reviews 

🚂 The cheapest train tickets are always on this App​

🏨 I got a 20% discount on a chateau hotel with this hotel booking tool​

I personally use these sites myself and if you use them, they will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing cost of maintaining my blog and writing about France. Thank you!