If you are into medieval cities and Mediterranean beaches, then visiting France is for you. Considered the largest country in Western Europe, France is also home to historical landmarks. This includes The Eiffel Tower and The Louvre Museum. Meanwhile, a selection of fine wines is like a cherry on top. But did you know that France houses some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe too?
With the holiday season almost here, visiting this lovely country is all the more exciting. Paris, and France in general, is surrounded by travel hype. But traveling through France is so much more than cafes and crepes, the Eiffel Tower and Champs Elysées — there are incredible theatre performances, famed natural splendor, incredible museums, and under-the-radar ways to save money while experiencing the country’s cuisine.
Before you book that flight ticket, though, let's give you a rundown of the best Christmas Markets in France you should not miss when you visit Europe.
1. Strasbourg
Drawing in approximately 2 million visitors each year makes Strasbourg the most famous Christmas Market throughout Europe. Situated near both Germany and Switzerland, this market brings about a perfect blend of that festivity vibe. Its history dates back to 1570; therefore, it's no surprise that Strasbourg is tagged as the "Capital of Christmas". From traditional dinnerware, fresh produce, wine and beer, you can find it all here.
If you want that traditional holiday celebration, then this is the perfect spot to start.
2. Tuileries
Does going into both a market and a funfair sound exciting to you? Well, then Tuileries got you covered! This Christmas market offers enthralling products too. You can find it all here, from a great spread of Christmas decorations to a lovely selection of gift ideas. Known as the biggest Christmas market in France, Tuileries has a good mixture of food, drinks, and crafts.
And since there is already a funfair within the vicinity, rides and entertainment will keep the kids' interest high. So whether you are solo traveling, as a couple, or with the whole family, Tuileries is a perfect destination to explore.
3. Reims
Someone fond of food will find the Reims as their haven! With 135 stalls offering different local delicacies. Reims Christmas market will leave you in a food coma sooner than you think. Compared to other Christmas markets, Reims highlights different French cuisines. And did we mention an extensive line-up of champagne bars too? Now, if that didn't entice you yet, we don't know what will.
4. Colmar
The quaint streets of Colmar, with its stalls arranged beautifully, will make everyone fall in love with Christmas, even The Grinch. Let yourselves loose as you take a stroll through the richly illuminated streets and alleyways. It feels like you're in a romantic movie scene. Don't forget to try their local specialties and get the first dib on some of the handicrafts manually made for your own experience.
Each street has its own particular theme and will surely swaddle you with so much Christmas vibe. Colmar Christmas market offers a unique mood guaranteed to delight every one of all ages.
5. Montbéliard
Montbéliard is well-known for its hospitality, and indeed you can feel the same on this Christmas market. Expect to be welcomed by the sound of different choral songs as you enter the market. Be ready to indulge in a variety of mouth-watering delicacies as well from Montbéliard and France. Its history dates back to 1986, and every year more than 400,000 visitors come and experience the festivity vibe firsthand.
The market's success is partly because of a breath-taking illumination design of the old town's streets which lets you travel back in time.
6. Nice
The city of Nice is known for its mild climate, even during winter. And that makes it perfect for those who feel uncomfortable with weather that's too cold. The Christmas village only consists of about 60 chalets. It is less compared to other Christmas markets in town but filled with never-ending activities for everyone of all ages.
Some of the children's favorite attractions include inflatables, a Ferris wheel, and a massive skating rink in the middle.
7. Aix-en-Provence
Did you know that Aix-en-Provence is a university city in the southern region of France? And the good thing is, you need not be a student to explore the town freely. The Christmas market theme changes every year, with some mainstays. The usual products you will see include hand-crafted toys, delicious mulled wine, and some Provencal delicacies that are difficult to resist.
For the first time in 2018, the Aix-en-Provence Christmas Market runs from November 21st until December 31st every day. And as a result, this gives tourists a broader window to pay some visit.
8. Lille
Known to be the "Jewel of the North," Lille's Christmas Market makes it possible for the whole town to be covered in massive crown garlands. If you want to experience a traditional Winter Wonderland, then this is the place to go. The city lights up and sparkles in the heart of winter. With hundreds of shops situated at Place Rihour, your shopping experience is taken to the next level.
You can either find specialties here from other places such as Russia, Poland, and Québec.
9. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is famous for its extensive choices of red wine. And each year, Allées de Tourny is transformed into a magical Christmas Market of little wooden huts and stalls. You will find more random products being sold here, such as clothes, Christmas decorations, toys, and other local products.
The atmosphere alone is already a treat for its visitors, staying in those little cabanas with light garlands. And after shopping, if the little ones get bored, the carousel of Monsieur Caramel is just right next to the market.
10. Riquewihr
As soon as you step foot on Riquewihr, you'll feel like you traveled back in the medieval ages. The town has been able to preserve its heritage for centuries now. And during Christmas, the whole town transforms into a magical setting. Be ready to indulge in pretzels, spice bread, and some traditionally hot chestnuts among the treats on offer.
Riquewihr is a wonderful marriage between the spirit of Christmas and architectural beauty.
There is no other better place to celebrate Christmas than in a country that widely celebrates it. So feel free to keep this list handy when you finally decide to go and visit France.
