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

Author: Kylie Lang

The best Christmas markets in France are Strasbourg (the self-styled Capital of Christmas), Colmar, Reims, Lyon, Metz, Lille, Bordeaux, Nantes, Rouen, Annecy, Carcassonne, Sarlat, Riquewihr, Arras, and the Tuileries market in Paris. Most run from late November through late December 2026, with a few stretching into early January 2027.

I’m like a big kid at Christmas, and one of my favorite things to do is visit the markets. Most Christmas markets in France start at the end of November, so I get to enjoy them for five whole weeks.

That said, there are so many 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.

Here’s the full list in one table, with 2026 dates, the region, what each market is best known for, and roughly how far it is from Paris.

MarketRegion2026 DatesKnown forDistance from Paris
StrasbourgAlsaceNov 27 – Dec 24Christkindelsmärik, the oldest in France1h 50m by TGV
ColmarAlsaceNov 23 – Dec 29Six markets in a half-timbered old town2h 20m by TGV
ReimsMarneNov 25 – Dec 27Light show on the Gothic cathedral45m by TGV
AnnecyHaute-SavoieNov 26 – Jan 3, 2027Alpine setting, lakeside chalets3h 40m by TGV
Tuileries (Paris)Île-de-FranceNov 14 – Jan 3, 2027Ice rink, Ferris wheel, fun fairIn Paris
BordeauxNouvelle-AquitaineNov 27 – Dec 27150 stalls, mulled wine, workshops2h 5m by TGV
LyonAuvergne-Rhône-AlpesNov 20 – Dec 24Fête des Lumières, 135 chalets at Place Carnot2h by TGV
MetzGrand EstNov 20 – Dec 30Igloo village1h 25m by TGV
LilleHauts-de-FranceNov 18 – Dec 30Flemish food, Ferris wheel on Grand Place1h by TGV
NantesPays de la LoireNov 19 – Dec 27Largest in western France, stilt-walker parade2h 5m by TGV
RouenNormandyNov 21 – Dec 28Normandy artisans, UNESCO gastronomy1h 25m by train
SarlatDordogneTBCTwo ice rinks, a country theme each year5h+ by train
CarcassonneOccitanieDec 3 – Jan 3, 2027Floodlit citadel, torchlight march5h+ by TGV
RiquewihrAlsaceNov 27 – Dec 20Belle’s hometown in Beauty and the Beast2h 20m by TGV + bus
ArrasHauts-de-FranceNov 28 – Dec 30Red-carpeted Grand’Place, 140+ stalls50m by TGV
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My 15 Favorite Christmas Markets in France

So this is 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.

No. 1 Strasbourg Christmas Market 2026 (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 among Europe’s most famous and picturesque Christmas markets.  The Alsace region has some gorgeous Christmas markets, 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 center.

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 favorite is in Place Kléber. It’s where the huge 30m Christmas Tree sits, along with the ice rink.

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

But the ambiance 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, try 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 2026 (Alsace)

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

Colmar is also 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 hosts six Christmas markets, fewer than its neighbor, Strasbourg, but plenty to keep you occupied.

No. 1 Marché de Noël de la Place des Dominicains: You’ll find 60+ stalls in front of the church, with the beautiful stained-glass window as the main feature. 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 cozy place to shop for handicrafts and stay warm.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE COLMAR CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 3 Reims Christmas Market 2026 (Marne)

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

With Reims home to most of the major champagne houses, it’s the perfect place to add some sparkle to your French Christmas experience.

Just a 45-minute train ride from Paris, you can enjoy the Christmas markets both cities offer.

Not to mention, Reims has 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. 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 2026 (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 biggest event on the 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 feels like a dream come true, like stepping into a movie scene. 

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, and this one has one, plus 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-ups, so there’s 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 so pretty, with all the usual trimmings you’d expect to see.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE TUILERIES CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 6 Bordeaux Christmas Market 2026 (Aquitaine)

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

About 150 stalls sell 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 2026 (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, with about 40 chalets showcasing artisanal arts and crafts.

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

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE LYON CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 8 Metz Christmas Market 2026 (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 France’s second-largest and spans five 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 – You’ll find the beautiful Christmas village and merry-go-round here, plus lots of lovely cafes as well.
  • 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 visit Place de Chambre, where you’ll see about twenty heated, see-through bubbles that form the igloo village. It’s so much fun!

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

You can stroll along in the evening and meet different characters who bring the walk to life.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE METZ CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 9 Lille Christmas Market 2026 (Nord)

Lille is one of the smaller Christmas markets, but it still gets nearly a million visitors each year. At the center 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.

Walk to Place du Théâtre to see the vintage carousel, then take the Christmas Train from Place Richebé, which 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 regional food, too. Being so close to the Belgian border, Flemish influence is definitely felt. Look out for Meert gaufres, potjevleesch, and Carbonade flamande.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE LILLE CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 10 Nantes Christmas Market 2026 (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 NANTES CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 11 Rouen Christmas Market 2026 (Normandy)

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

It’s the capital of Normandy, 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, and it’s one of the most stunning cities, with 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 gastronomy, you know the food stalls will be amazing.

On Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Father Christmas is available for visits between 2 and 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 2026 (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.

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 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 2026, and I don’t even have the dates, 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 activities are free, and it feels like something out of a Christmas movie; they even have a horse-drawn carriage for you to ride.

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE SARLAT CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 13 Carcassonne Christmas Market 2026 (Aude)

I’m probably biased because I fell in love with Carcassonne a few years ago after reading Kate Mosse’s 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 panoramic views of the Canal du Midi from the Ferris wheel at Santa Claus Park on Place 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 usually marks the opening of the markets.

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

Many wear medieval costumes, and they march from La Cité to Place Carnot in La Bastide. 

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 2026 (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 feels like stepping into a fairytale.

During the festive period, it gets even better, offering a glimpse into a real Alsatian Christmas.

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

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

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

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE RIQUEWIHR CHRISTMAS MARKET

No. 15 Arras Christmas Market 2026

Arras rolls out the red carpet for its Christmas market, quite literally, with the square carpeted in red and the market held in the beautiful Grand’Place.

Thousands of lights illuminate the Flemish-style buildings, and 140+ stalls are surrounded by hundreds of Christmas trees.

The traditional carousel shares the stage with the ice rink and sled run, entertaining 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.

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

THE IMPORTANT DETAILS OF THE ARRAS CHRISTMAS MARKET

FAQs

Which is the best Christmas market in France?*

Most people think Strasbourg is the best Christmas market in France. It’s the oldest, the most famous, and the whole city takes part, with 10 to 12 separate markets spread across the Grande Île. If you want something smaller and more picturesque, Colmar and Riquewihr in Alsace, or Carcassonne down in the south, are my picks.

When do French Christmas markets open in 2026?

Most open in the last week of November 2026 and run until around December 24. The Tuileries market in Paris opens earliest, on November 14, and a handful (Annecy, Carcassonne, the Tuileries) run on into early January 2027. Riquewihr closes earliest, on December 20.

What’s the oldest Christmas market in France?

Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, held in front of the cathedral, dates back to 1570, making it France’s oldest Christmas market and one of Europe’s oldest.

Which Christmas markets are near Paris?

The Tuileries market is in Paris itself, along with the one at the Hôtel de Ville. For a day trip by train, Reims is 45 minutes away by TGV, Arras is 50 minutes, and Lille is an hour. All three run from late November to late December and are easy to do and get back the same day.

Author: Kylie Lang

Title: Travel Journalist and Podcaster

Expertise: Travel, History & Lifestyle

Kylie Lang is a British travel journalist and the founder of Life in Rural France, a publication about French rural life and travelling around France, especially Paris and the South West. She has lived in the Charente since 2016 and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers.

Kylie is a nationally syndicated travel journalist with bylines on the Associated Press Wire, MSN and AOL, and has appeared as a guest on many travel-related podcasts. She travels extensively all around France, finding medieval villages time forgot and uncovering secrets about the cities at the top of everyone's French bucket list.

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