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The Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in France to Visit This Winter
From the fairy-tale streets of Alsace to the sparkling squares of Champagne, France turns into a storybook each December.
If you’ve ever spent time in France in December, you’ll know how special it feels. Lights everywhere, music in the streets, and the smell of something sweet and spiced in the air. Each region has its own traditions, but what they all share is that warm, festive spirit that makes you want to stay out just a little longer, even when it’s cold.
These are some of the Christmas markets we love most, places that feel authentic, full of charm, and still connected to their local roots.
©Strasbourg EU
Strasbourg, The Original Christmas Market
Strasbourg proudly calls itself the Capital of Christmas, and with good reason, its market dates back to 1570, making it the oldest in France. Each year, over 300 wooden chalets fill the old town with the scent of gingerbread, spiced wine, and warm pretzels.
The magic starts around the Cathedral Square, where the city’s famous Christmas tree towers over the market. Wander from Place Kléber to Petite France, and you’ll find handmade ornaments, Alsatian specialties, and the friendliest holiday spirit.
Tip: book early if you plan to stay overnight, Strasbourg gets busy, and rooms sell out fast!
Dates: 26 November – 24 December 2025
Colmar, Six Markets in One Charming Town
Just an hour from Strasbourg, Colmar feels like a Christmas postcard come to life. The town hosts six different markets, each with its own character, from the Place des Dominicains, where medieval stained glass glows at night, to the Petite Venise market, designed especially for children.
Every corner of Colmar sparkles, half-timbered houses draped in garlands, reflections of lights dancing on the canals, and the comforting smell of cinnamon in the air. Try the local bredele biscuits and a glass of Alsatian white wine while you wander.
©Reims
Reims, Champagne and Christmas Lights
If you like a bit of sparkle (in every sense), Reims is worth the trip. The market takes place in front of the cathedral, one of the most impressive in France, and in the evenings, the façade is lit up by a stunning light show.
There are about 150 chalets, and the mix of local champagne, regional food, and Christmas decorations is hard to beat. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel at sunset, it’s a simple thing, but the view over the city and vineyards is unforgettable.
Dates: 26 November – 28 December 2025
©Amiens Tourisme
Amiens, Northern Charm
Further north, Amiens has the biggest Christmas market in the region, with more than 120 stalls and plenty of things to eat, buy, or simply admire. The atmosphere feels genuine, less about tourism, more about people coming together.
The highlight here is the Chroma light show on the cathedral each evening, which brings the sculptures to life with colour and sound.
Dates: 29 November – 29 December 2025
©Metz Ville
Metz, A Magical Market in Lorraine
Few places glow quite like Metz in December. Its market spreads across several squares, Place Saint-Louis, Place de la République, and Place d’Armes, where the city’s towering Christmas tree steals the show.
With its Ferris wheel, ice rink, and traditional chalets, Metz combines festive fun with French elegance. Between sips of hot wine, take time to visit the Saint-Étienne Cathedral or the nearby Centre Pompidou-Metz for an art-filled escape.
Dates: Late November – 29 December 2025
Instagram Office de Tourisme de Kaysersberg @visitkb
Kaysersberg – A True Alsatian Fairy Tale
Just a few kilometres from Colmar, Kaysersberg might be the most picturesque of them all. The village looks like it was built for Christmas, cobbled lanes, old timbered houses, and a market that’s small but full of heart.
Named France’s Best Christmas Market in 2022, it focuses on local craftsmanship: hand-blown glass, carved wooden toys, and homemade bredeles (Alsatian biscuits). It’s open only on weekends, which makes it even more special.
Dates: 29 November – 22 December 2025 (weekends only)
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