If you are celebrating Christmas in France, this is the perfect time to attend a Christmas market. France's regional diversity allows you to discover various traditions.
We help you by giving you our list of the top five markets in the country.
If you want to apply as a babysitter in January >> APPLY THROUGH OUR ONLINE FORM
#1 Notre Dame Christmas market
From 13th to 29th December.
At any other time of the year, you’d be forgiven for walking past the Square René Viviani in Paris and not even turning your head. The quaint little green space in the shadows of the Notre Dame and just a stone’s throw away from the infamous Shakespeare & Company, it’s here where the Marché de Noël at Notre Dame takes place.
Pick up a cup of warm tipple and make your way around the regional handmade crafts on sale, nibble on some festive treats and bask in the warm light of Paris’ Notre Dame. There’s some good deals to be had to and you’re guaranteed to find something for all the family here.
#2 La Défense Christmas village
From 21st November to 28th December
If it’s size you’re after, then La Défense’s Village de Noël is the one for you. On the outskirts of the capital, the Christmas market boats 350 chalets for you to explore under festive lighting and the Grande Arche.
A proper visit could well take you a couple hours, there truly is a new set of offerings to feast your eyes on at every window with products coming from across the world. Of course, you can keep your energy levels up with food and drink treats at every corner too!
#3 Strasbourg Christmas market
From 22nd November to 30th December
The oldest market in France stands in Strasbourg, and it’s really quite the site. Like something from a perfect Christmas film, the UNESCO world heritage site’s picture-perfect old-fashioned houses are adorned with lights and decorations above the huts.
300 wooden chalets selling their goods are on offer, many showcasing the work of craftsmen and women, there’s also plenty to nibble on and drink (try the pain d’épices!) and look out for the Great Christmas Tree while you’re there!
#4 Reims Christmas market
From 23rd November to 29h December
Another UNESCO-listed site getting into the Christmas spirit, the Reims Cathedral and Palace of Tay courtyard welcome 150 chalets for those seeking some festive fun.
On top of the crafty shops, there’s a Ferris wheel to get the best view of the goings on, a ‘Kingdom of Children’ for the little ones, as well as shows and interactive fun for all the family!
#5 Colmar Christmas market
From 22nd november to 29th December
Colmar’s Christmas market splits the chalets into five separate areas in the ‘Place des Dominicains’, ‘Place Jeanne d’Arc’, ‘Place de l’Ancienne Douane’, ‘Koïfhus – Marché Intérieur’ and the ‘Petite Venise’.
Take time to look around the city for the Middle ages houses and Christmas illuminations, designed to highlight the town’s heritage. Check out the market’s official website for a detailed programme of all that’s on offer!
