France's Best Christmas Markets
From Strasbourg to Lille, a tour of France's most magical Christmas markets, with mulled wine, lights and crafts.
Five days to soak up the magic of Christmas across France's finest markets. The route opens in Strasbourg, "Capital of Christmas" since 1570, with its giant tree on Place Kléber, then takes in Colmar's illuminated quarters, Montbéliard and its Nordic-flavoured market, Lyon's Festival of Lights in early December, and Lille with its big wheel and giant chalet. Mulled wine, bredele biscuits and craft stalls set the rhythm of every stop. The season runs from late November to late December; come midweek or at dusk to dodge the weekend crowds, and book accommodation very early, especially in Strasbourg and Colmar, which sell out months ahead.
Practical info
- Stops
- 5
- Duration
- 5 days
- Transport
- 🚗 Car
- Distance
- ≈ 940 km
- Best time
- Spring and autumn
Itinerary
- 1
Strasbourg
Le plus ancien marche de Noel de France depuis 1570, au pied de la cathedrale.
- 2
Colmar
Cinq marches dans le decor feerique de la Petite Venise illuminee.
- 3
Montbeliard
Marche classe parmi les plus beaux de France, illuminations de la vieille ville.
- 4
Lyon Fete des Lumieres
Le marche de Noel coincide avec la celebre Fete des Lumieres debut decembre.
- 5
Lille
Le Village de Noel sur la Grand'Place, grande roue et chalets artisanaux.
