Best Christmas Markets in France

Multiple locations across Strasbourg city center

One of the oldest and most renowned Christmas markets in Europe, established in 1570. Known as the 'Capital of Christmas,' Strasbourg transforms into a magical winter wonderland with nearly 300 chalets spread across multiple historic squares. The market features traditional Alsatian crafts, regional specialties, and spectacular illuminations throughout the city center.

Place des Quinconces

The largest and most traditional Christmas market in Bordeaux, celebrating its 30th edition in 2024. Features over 100 wooden chalets offering local crafts, decorations, and regional delicacies. The market includes family entertainment, workshops, carousels, and traditional food stalls serving mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and regional specialties.

Square Boufflers

A magical free attraction featuring over 2,000 lanterns and illuminated displays creating an enchanting fairy-tale world. Located on Ile du Petit Saulcy behind Salle Fabert, this romantic trail along the Moselle river showcases illuminated characters, decorations, and a Christmas village theme. Now in its 14th edition, it includes animated trees and Father Christmas's train station as new features.

Place Rihour

One of the most established Christmas markets in northern France, operating for over 30 years. Features 90 wooden chalets offering artisan crafts, regional products, and festive food. The market attracts over 1 million visitors annually from neighboring countries and offers weekly entertainment including blind tests on Fridays and illuminated performances on Thursdays.

Koïfhus

An impressive medieval building housing about twenty local craftsmen and women. Features ceramicists, potters, master glass-makers, cabinetmakers, wood sculptors, hat-makers, and jewellery makers. Offers a warm indoor space to admire traditional regional crafts.

Jardin des Tuileries

The largest Christmas market in Paris, featuring over 100 Swiss-style chalets, a giant Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, carnival rides, and extensive food offerings. Known for its festive atmosphere with French-produced specialty foods, artisan crafts, and entertainment. Located in the scenic Tuileries Garden with views of the Louvre.

Hautes Promenades Jean-Louis Schneiter

The third largest Christmas market in France, featuring 150 wooden chalets offering regional specialties, artisanal crafts, and festive goods. The market attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually and includes a village of artisans and Santa's workshop at the Porte de Mars esplanade.

Mail François Mitterrand

One of Rennes' main Christmas markets, featuring wooden chalets selling regional gastronomic delicacies and handicrafts. This popular market in Brittany's capital offers a great atmosphere with a wealth of stalls for Christmas shopping. The market runs from late November through the end of December.

Place Carnot

Lyon's traditional Christmas market, held since 1997 on the forecourt of Lyon Perrache Station. Features around 100 chalets showcasing local producers, artisans, and businesses, with a strong emphasis on the 'Fabriqué à Lyon' label promoting regional craftsmanship. The market transforms Place Carnot into a festive Christmas village with illuminations, decorations, and family-friendly activities.

Rue de la montagne verte

A Christmas market dedicated to gourmands and gourmets featuring 9 cabins with 9 chefs and master restaurateurs. Offers divine dishes from starters to desserts, including oysters and Alsatian specialties. Features live cooking demonstrations (Cook Shows) from 5pm to 6pm.

Gare de l'Est forecourt

The oldest Alsatian Christmas market outside of Alsace, held under a large tent at Gare de l'Est train station. Features 15-20 Alsatian artisans offering regional specialties including charcuterie, Munster and Gruyere cheeses, regional wines and brandies, foie gras, kougelhopf, gingerbread, and sauerkraut. Known as the 'foodie Christmas market' with daily free tastings.

Jardin Albert 1er

Nice's main Christmas market featuring over 60 wooden chalets with artisan crafts, Christmas decorations, and gourmet specialties. The market includes themed areas like 'Le Chemin de Caléna' (artisan market), 'Le Coin des Pichouï' (children's area), 'Le Monde du Père Noël' (Santa's House), and 'Place aux Festins' (entertainment space with dance animations and musical evenings).

Caserne Niel

An alternative, responsible Christmas market held at the Darwin Ecosystem, a former military barracks turned multicultural space. Features over 5,000 m² of sustainable and ethical stands from regional artisans and creators, offering clothing, jewelry, art objects, books, furniture, wellness services, and organic gastronomy. Includes children's activities, live music, and organic treats from the on-site chocolate factory and bakery.

Place du Parlement de Bretagne

A festive Christmas village located at the historic Place du Parlement de Bretagne in Rennes. Features Santa's village with a giant Christmas tree, offering visitors a magical Christmas atmosphere. The market includes various stalls and festive activities for families.

Place de la Cathédrale

Main market location in front of the magnificent Gothic cathedral