Update: November 4, 2025
When the first snowflakes fall and the cities light up, Christmas markets become true magical places. From the Alps to Brittany, each French region showcases its traditions, artisans, and scents of spices. Here are the ten most enchanting markets to visit in 2025! We have intentionally not included the Haute-Savoie Christmas markets.
1. Strasbourg – The Capital of Christmas
A true institution since 1570, the Christkindelsmärik makes Strasbourg shine every winter. Nearly 300 chalets fill the historic squares, and the gigantic Christmas tree at Place Kléber dominates the city. The scents of mulled wine, bredele, and cinnamon transport visitors into a unique atmosphere.
2025 Dates: from November 26 to December 24, 2025.
2. Colmar – A Living Postcard
In Colmar, everything seems to come out of a fairy tale. The half-timbered houses are adorned with garlands and the canals reflect a thousand lights. Five themed markets are spread throughout the city: crafts, treats, children, decorations, and local creations.
The half-timbered houses and canals reflect hundreds of Christmas lights, creating an intimate and magical atmosphere. Ideal for strolling with family and discovering handcrafted souvenirs.
2025 Dates: from November 25 to December 29, 2025.
3. Lille – Warm Atmosphere in the North
On the Grand’Place and Place Rihour, Lille offers a lively and diverse Christmas market. About 90 chalets form a collection mixing Northern European traditions and local crafts. The Ferris wheel, decorations, and the conviviality of the North make it a perfect place for a weekend getaway.
2025 Dates: from November 20 to December 29, 2025.
4. Reims – Refinement at the Foot of the Cathedral
Set at the foot of the majestic Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this market gathers nearly 145 chalets. You will find a monumental Christmas tree, a Ferris wheel to admire the lights, and stands dedicated to local gastronomy. The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly.
2025 Dates: from November 26 to December 28, 2025.
5. Lyon – Market and Festival of Lights
The Lyon metropolitan area focuses on scale: two major sites (Place Carnot and the Croix-Rousse district) host the market. Nearly 140 chalets, an outdoor ice rink, a petting farm… and alongside, the famous Festival of Lights: everything combines to immerse visitors in a festive and luminous universe.
2025 Dates: late November to December 24.
6. Rennes – A Breton and Creative Christmas
In the heart of Brittany, the Rennes market spreads across several downtown sites, notably at Place du Parlement de Bretagne. You will encounter artisans, Christmas decorations, local specialties (kouign-amann, hot cider), and activities: little train, street performances, ice rink… Perfect for a family getaway.
7. Béthune – The Christmas City
Less well-known than some big names but just as charming, Béthune is decidedly the “Christmas City.” Intimate, friendly, human: the market unfolds in the central square in a warm atmosphere, with artisanal chalets, tasty treats, children’s workshops, and rides. An ideal address to experience Christmas differently.
2025 Dates: from November 28 to December 28, 2025.
8. Nantes – Magic in the West
In western France, Nantes lights up its squares (Place du Commerce, Place Royale) for the Christmas market. Between crafts, culinary products, and spectacular shows (brass bands, parades, children’s workshops), it offers a festive environment that will delight the whole family.
2025 Dates: from November 20 to December 28, 2025.
9. Toulouse – The Pink City in Winter Attire
In the southwest, the “Pink City” lights up with a Christmas market set up at Place du Capitole. About 117 chalets spread around local crafts, regional delicacies, and solidarity initiatives (association stands, fair trade). A wonderful way to celebrate Christmas with engagement and warmth.
2025 Dates: from November 27 to December 28, 2025.
10. Aix-en-Provence – Provençal Tradition and Sweetness of Life
In the south, the city of Aix stands out for its Provençal ambiance. Cours Mirabeau transforms into a market where santons, 13 desserts, calissons, and ceramic objects mingle. Street performances and rides complete this warm and typically Mediterranean experience.
2025 Dates: from November 14 to December 31, 2025.
Why Discover These Markets in France?
A Living History
The tradition of Christmas markets has its roots in Advent celebrations, notably in Germany and Alsace. In France, this tradition has been enriched with local crafts and modern innovations.
An Invitation to Indulgence
Spiced mulled wine, chestnuts, nougats, pretzels, or Breton galettes: each market highlights a culinary palette unique to its region.
An Enchanting Atmosphere
Lights, Christmas carols, magical installations: the markets transform city centers into true dreamlike settings.
Authentic Gifts
Handcrafted creations, local objects, unique pieces: they are the ideal place to give or treat yourself to a present with soul.
Tips to Fully Enjoy the 2025 Christmas Markets
- Book your accommodation early, especially in Alsace!
- Prefer traveling by train or public transport.
- Bring warm clothes (often cold) and comfortable shoes.
- Many markets offer activities for children: workshops, ice rink, or little train rides…
- Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Think about reusable cups and tote bags for your purchases.
- Taste local specialties: mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread…
In 2025, these ten Christmas markets perfectly embody the magic of winter in France. Whether it’s a getaway in Alsace, a weekend in the North, or a festive moment in the Southwest, each of these places offers a unique and warm atmosphere. Blend into the magic, let yourself be carried away by the light, craftsmanship, and children’s laughter… and create memorable memories.
