The 10 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in France

Christmas markets first appeared in Alsace and Germany from the 14th century onwards.

The one in Strasbourg, now highly renowned, has existed since 1570. They originally began as religious markets held 8 days before Christmas and until midnight mass in the northern and eastern regions of France.

Today the religious theme is more a matter of folklore on the markets, and numerous products have enriched the vendors’ stalls. These festive events still give pride of place to local and traditional products. From the 1990s onwards, the phenomenon of Christmas markets spread throughout France, and most major cities now organise an edition each year on their main squares. Cities have generally already installed their Christmas decorations, and the event lights up the squares with festive, reflective lights. Amateurs of mulled wine, gingerbread and other traditional gastronomic products, Christmas decorations and a friendly, warm atmosphere: Christmas markets are made for you. Our selection of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France this year: Without surprise, it is always the markets in the north and east of France that are most represented in the ranking, although certain provincial cities as well as Paris slip into the ranking at respectable positions.

– Strasbourg. This market is now the best known and most frequented in France. Originally the market was set up for Saint Nicholas’s Day, then the tradition somewhat changed and the market now covers both this period and the end-of-year festivities. The market is now held on Place Broglie and a large Christmas tree nearly 30 metres tall traditionally stands on this square for the occasion. The market prominently features local produce as well as typical products for this event: gingerbread, mulled spiced wine, candied fruits, nougats, chocolates, cakes, charcuterie, festive products (salmon, champagne, chestnuts…). There are also decorations for the home, ideas for family Christmas gifts (jewellery, clothing, toys…), but above all artisanal products (Christmas ornaments to hang on the tree branches, wooden items, wicker figurines, …). Montbéliard. More than the market and its products, the town of Montbéliard is especially renowned for its Christmas illuminations, which give the town such a special, sparkling atmosphere. – Amiens (Picardy). Its market attracts over one million visitors each year and showcases over 130 small chalets during the few weeks the market is open. It is also an opportunity for the town to operate its 40-metre big wheel and highlight its magnificent cathedral. – Reims Every year the city of the Coronations does everything it can to bring its city centre to life around the Christmas market, particularly with its cross-country ski piste and its living nativity scene. – La Défense, Paris. The Christmas market tradition extends even to Paris’s business district, and in December the entire La Défense arch and its immense towers illuminate and reflect the market’s warm lights. What the market lacks in authenticity and history, it makes up for in terms of diversity and abundance in products and temporary restaurants. Avignon. This market highlights ancient and deeply religious Provençal culture. You will find the traditional santons of Provence. Next to the Town Hall stands the Calendale Table presenting the Gros Souper, the last meal before midnight mass. In tradition, there are seven meatless dishes representing the seven sorrows of Mary, and the thirteen desserts including (depending on the town): green melon, apples, white grapes, pears, walnuts or hazelnuts, dried grapes, almonds, dried figs, figs, oranges, mandarin oranges, jam, nougat, the “pompe” or “fougasse”, cooked wine and dates. – Nantes. Nantes, a city of exchange since time immemorial, makes a point of honour in organising a traditional Christmas market that mixes typical products with products of sustainable, fair and responsible origin. – Lille. Like its other star events, the Braderie and the Carnival, Lille’s Christmas market is a highly festive affair, with chalets and musical entertainment for the delight of passers-by. – Metz and Plombières. Majestic in traditions and atmosphere, the Lorraine markets are spread across several poles and themes. The Christmas spirit is omnipresent, and the town even provides a little train to best explore the town. – Colmar. At the heart of traditions, Colmar offers high-quality products for its market. The imagination of the people of Colmar is impressive when it comes to Christmas decorations. Advent wreaths are legion and give the town a particular character and charm during this period.