A Tour of France's Christmas Markets

Our beautiful country is celebrated across the world for the diversity of its landscapes and the richness of its culture. This is somewhat one of the reasons why the Tour de France is so popular. With the end-of-year festivities approaching, we invite you on a more symbolic tour of France, that of the Christmas markets. The opening of the celebrations, in a sense!

Alsace, the origins

It has to begin with Strasbourg, whose Christmas market is indeed very well known in France and abroad. It is also the first that was held in honour of the Infant Jesus in 1570. It has moreover retained its original name: in Alsatian, it is the “Christkindelsmärik”. It has also managed to remain very traditional, certainly one of the reasons for its success.

A little further south is Mulhouse which, just like Strasbourg, enjoys a practically unrivalled reputation for its Christmas market. In addition to the traditional stalls, the market at Place de la Réunion invites you to take in the view with its large Ferris wheel at 38m. This overlooks the market and a visit is a must at nightfall. Another particular point in Mulhouse, each year a fabric is designed to celebrate the event.

Lille, the northern spirit

There is no need to highlight the festive spirit of the North of France, everyone knows and appreciates it. It is also what has made the success of the great flea market. All the same, Lille also knows how to celebrate Christmas as it should, it is in fact its 26th edition this year. The many chalets await you at Place Rihoul with original gifts, fine dishes cooked on-site and merchants from here and elsewhere, notably from Russia.

Paris, capital of Christmas markets

Obviously, one cannot omit Paris and its surrounding suburbs. The Champs-Élysées, Place Notre Dame de Paris are essential winter destinations for Parisians and tourists. In addition to this, you will find many chalets in the Paris railway stations. Notably the Alsatian market at Gare de l’Est for those who cannot make the round trip to Strasbourg or Mulhouse. Obviously, the Christmas Arch on the Parvis de la Défense is the most renowned for its size, its choice of gifts and its catering.

Lyon is not to be outdone

The gastronomic capital of France is also a sought-after destination for its Christmas markets. The main market is situated on Place Carnot and is an integral part of the Festival of Lights. It is in fact its 20th edition this year. Alongside this market, you will also have the opportunity to discover the creators’ market in the first arrondissement. Warning, only open on 17th and 18th December.

The Provençal markets

All over Provence you will find typical Christmas markets with their very local specialities, notably the terracotta santons. These date back to the very beginning of the 19th century with the first Santon Fair in Marseille. The quality of these miniatures will give realism and warmth to your nativity scenes. Speaking of warmth, the 13 desserts should also be mentioned. These are more recent but also come straight from Marseille. They represent Jesus and the 12 apostles, are served during the gros souper, a lean meal on 24th December before midnight mass. We will return to this in another article.

For the markets, Marseille and Aix-en-Provence are the most renowned. There, we hope that with this tour of France, you can already feel the Christmas spirit!