France in December has a charm all its own. Streets glow with white lights, cafés smell like roasted chestnuts and towns transform into winter villages. We’ve spent time at several of France’s best markets, including Strasbourg, Colmar and Paris, and each one brings its own twist on the tradition.

Here are the top markets to visit in 2025 and what to know before you go.

Strasbourg: Nov 26–Dec 24

Strasbourg calls itself the “Capital of Christmas,” and it earns the title. The market fills the historic center with lights, wooden stalls, and mulled wine. We’ve visited multiple times, and it always feels special — no matter how many crowds gather under the cathedral. The decorations stretch across the river, and the city glows from every bridge.

Colmar: Nov 25–Dec 29

Colmar looks straight out of a storybook. Half-timbered houses reflect in the canals, and six small markets connect through cobbled streets. We’ve been here several times and always end up walking for hours. It’s smaller than Strasbourg but just as beautiful, especially at night when the entire town sparkles.

Reims: Nov 26–Dec 28

Reims mixes holiday charm with Champagne. The market sits near the cathedral, and the stalls focus on food, gifts, and local wine. It’s the best place to sip bubbles while watching the light show on the cathedral’s façade.

Rouen: Nov 21–Dec 28

Rouen’s market sits in front of the cathedral and lines the nearby streets. We’re heading there this year and looking forward to seeing how it compares to the others. Normandy does Christmas well, with plenty of regional treats and cozy cafés to warm up in.

Amiens: Nov 21–Dec 30

The largest market in northern France stretches for more than a mile through the city center. It’s known for its handmade crafts and family-friendly setup, with rides and a skating rink.

Metz: Nov 23–Dec 30

Metz has one of France’s most atmospheric markets, spread across several squares. Look for the Ferris wheel at Place d’Armes and the wooden chalets selling gingerbread and regional wine.

Lille: Nov 20–Dec 29

Lille’s market takes over the main square with a massive tree and a small Ferris wheel. It’s smaller than the Alsace markets but easy to reach by train from Paris or Brussels.

Bordeaux: Nov 28–Dec 28

The Bordeaux market fills Allées de Tourny with stalls selling regional specialties and gifts. The food stands are excellent, especially for oysters and mulled wine. It’s lively but never overwhelming.

Montbéliard: Nov 22–Dec 24

Montbéliard’s market is one of the prettiest in eastern France, known for its warm lights and local crafts. The old town setting makes it feel intimate, and the focus on regional food sets it apart.

Nice: Nov 30–Jan 2

Nice might surprise people, but the market here runs almost into the new year. It’s set in Place Masséna and has a seaside feel with palm trees wrapped in lights. You can walk the promenade after sunset and still catch a bit of winter magic.

Paris: Multiple Dates Across the City

Paris doesn’t have one main Christmas market — it has dozens. The Tuileries Garden market is the biggest, with rides, food stalls, and an ice rink. There are smaller ones under the Eiffel Tower, at Hôtel de Ville, and along La Défense. We’ve spent several Decembers in Paris, and it never feels repetitive. Each arrondissement adds its own style, from artisanal gifts to luxury chocolates.

Travel Tips for French Christmas Markets

• Bring cash. Many smaller stalls don’t take cards
• Dress warm. France can be wet and cold in December
• Visit early or after dark. Crowds build quickly on weekends
• Sample local food. Each region has its own holiday specialties
• Book hotels in advance. Strasbourg and Colmar sell out weeks ahead
• Use the train. The French rail network connects most major cities easily
• Check closing dates. Some markets end before Christmas Eve while others stay open into January

Know Before You Go

Most French markets open in late November and close before Christmas, but a few run through the holidays. Nice and Metz continue into the new year, while Strasbourg and Colmar usually end by December 24. If you’re planning to travel around France by train, reserve early, Christmas week is one of the busiest times of year.

Planning More Christmas Travel?

Christmas Markets in Germany →
Christmas Markets in Austria →
Christmas Markets in Italy →