Where can you find the best Christmas markets in France this winter?

Have you always dreamt of exploring France’s most beautiful Christmas markets and decided to take the plunge this year? Then you’ve come to the right place!

In this guide, we’ve put together a list of the most grandiose Christmas markets, those where the magic and spirit of Christmas reign supreme. Let’s not waste any more time and find out what these magical places are.

1. The Strasbourg Christmas Market

The Strasbourg Christmas Market is not only the oldest Christmas market in France, it’s also the most famous and the one considered to be the most spectacular. It has to be said that this market is inspired by the sumptuous Christmas markets in Germany, Strasbourg’s close neighbour.

Every year, almost 2 million visitors wander the magnificent market aisles. In all, 300 sublimely decorated chalets make up this incredible village where the magic of Christmas reigns.

This year, the Strasbourg Christmas Market will run from 25 November to 24 December 2022.

2. The Lyon Christmas Market

The Lyon Christmas Market is probably the most gourmet Christmas market in France. After all, Lyon is the world capital of gastronomy.

There are no fewer than 90 beautifully illuminated and decorated little chalets. In the aisles, the scent of local delicacies and Christmas classics will fill your nostrils.

What’s more, being in the city of Lyon at this time of year is also of particular interest, as the Fête des Lumières takes place at the same time, extending the magic of Christmas throughout the city.

This year, the Lyon Christmas Market will run from 26 November to 24 December 2022.

3. The Kaysersberg Christmas Market

If you’re looking for a wonderful Christmas market that’s both authentic and warm, head for the one in Kaysersberg, in Alsace. The region is renowned for its passion for the festive season, and the Kaysersberg Christmas market is one of the best examples of this.

Located in the heart of the historic centre, in the midst of an exceptional historical heritage, it offers a vast array of wonders to discover, including Alsatian specialities, wooden toys, gingerbread, blown-glass objects and much more.

This year, the Kaysersberg Christmas Market will take place from 25 to 27 November, 2 to 4 December, 9 to 11 December and 16 to 20 December 2022.

4. Mulhouse Christmas Market

Alsace is definitely the place to be when it comes to Christmas markets, and this is confirmed once again by the Mulhouse Christmas Market, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country.

What sets it apart is its unique decor of magnificent fabrics. Every year, thousands of metres of Christmas fabrics are renewed for the occasion, magnificently decorating the facades of the town’s historic centre.

The village itself is made up of dozens of small chalets selling a wide range of local products and regional crafts.

This year, the Mulhouse Christmas Market will run from 24 November to 27 December 2022.

5. The Montbéliard Christmas Market

The Montbéliard Christmas Market, nicknamed ” Christmas Lights “, is considered to be one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France. For many years, it has been held during the Advent period in Montbéliard’s picturesque town centre.

More than 135 artisans offering authentic creations are on hand to welcome visitors. Children’s workshops and local storytelling also await the youngest visitors, to help them discover the magic of Christmas through local traditions.

This year, the Montbéliard Christmas Market will run from 26 November to 24 December 2022.

6. The Colmar Christmas Market

The Colmar Christmas Market is the second largest Christmas market in France. In fact, it consists of 6 different markets that make the town’s reputation during the Advent period.

The different markets, which focus on local produce, take place in a magnificent architectural setting dating back to the Middle Ages. A children’s market has even been created for the occasion, providing a magical backdrop for your little ones.

This year, the Colmar Christmas Market will run from 24 November to 29 December 2022.

7. Eguisheim Christmas Market

The Eguisheim Christmas Market is another authentic and traditional Alsatian Christmas market. Eguisheim is a pretty medieval town with colourful little houses that make an idyllic backdrop for a Christmas market.

As well as discovering the wonderful local produce on offer in the pretty chalets, you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine with the Eguisheim villagers.

This year, the Eguisheim Christmas Market will run from 25 November to 30 December 2022, but will be closed on 24, 25 and 26 December inclusive.

8. The Reims Christmas Market

Last but not least is the Reims Christmas Market. This vast market, comprising 135 chalets, is located on the exceptional site of Notre-Dame cathedral and extends into the courtyard of the Palais de Thau.

The setting is spectacular, as is the magnificent decoration planned for the occasion. The market even has a children’s area with a miniature train, an ice rink and much more.

This year’s Reims Christmas Market will run from December 1 to 31, 2022.

In conclusion:

If you’ve made it this far, you now know in which cities you can find the most beautiful Christmas markets this winter in France. If you’re looking for the perfect destination to prepare for the festive season, don’t hesitate to visit the places mentioned in this article.

You’ll be able to experience the magic of Christmas like never before, and there’s plenty to keep young and old alike happy.