A Guide to French Christmas Markets 2024
If you're anything like me, it feels as though 2024 has flown by. It feels like yesterday was September! As the end of the year is quickly approaching I couldn't round off the blog without mentioning French Christmas markets. These Christmas markets feel somewhat more authentic to me rather than the ones in UK like Newcastle and Manchester which seems hyper-commercialised and overstimulating. The decorations, music and the French architecture give a certain "je ne sais quoi", apologies for the cringe but it's truly indescribable. I wanted to highlight three unmissable Christmas markets located in the north, east and south west of France, each with their own unique charm that I would recommend to anyone visiting France this festive season.
Paris
La Magie de noël at Tuilleries Garden
So I'm technically cheating with this one as I haven't been to the Paris Christmas markets since 2022! Paris at Christmas is an unforgettable experience; and I mean that it's both wonderful and very stressful. The capital always puts on a show for Christmas with yuletide events popping up across the city. I would be amiss if I didn't mention one of the largest markets in the jardin de Tuilleries. If you're travelling with kids or you're just a big kid at heart then this is a one stop shop for all things Christmas. Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, the Tuilleries Gardens is brash, lively and full of excitement. Equipped with a large outdoor skating rink, fairground which doubles as a carnivalesque amusement park and Pommery Champagne igloo to top it off, theres's fun for kids and adults alike. Indulge in traditional Christmas treats like 'vin chaud' and 'foie gras'. The location is also perfect for if you want a view of the nightly light show at the Eiffel Tower to top off a truly magical day.
Galeries Lafayette
If I had to describe Galeries Lafayette, I'd say it's like a huge Harrods orJohn Lewis type department store on steroids. And more expensive. If you're looking to buy luxury goods for Christmas this year then you can find it all under one roof. Every Christmas when I'm in Paris I make sure to head to the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement to see their Christmas decorations and beautifully festive window dressings. No expense is spared in terms of decorations. In fact, I've seen people queue up just to get a photo in front of these lavish decorations (myself included). Each year, the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann design a new Christmas tree which takes centre stage in the store which has been a long standing tradition since 1976!
Even if you don't have money to spend, I would still recommend visiting Galeries Lafayette just for their amazing rooftop. It's free to enter and has in my opinion one of the best views of Paris. It's important to note that this year Les Galeries Lafayette will be closed during each weekend in December so make sure that you pop by during the week if you're planning to visit, to avoid disappointment.
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche
Another Department store which has excellent Christmas window decorations which are again totally free to visit. Based in the 7th arrondissement this is a great outing to pass time with friends and family alike.
La Recyclerie
A few years ago I stumbled on this rustic kind of Scandinavian style Christmas market in the 18th arrondissement. At was at a place called La Recyclerie and it's a local, vegan and eco friendly winter village that runs it's own Christmas market from November to March each year! If sustainability is at the forefront of your mind during this festive season then I really recommend visiting this market. With artisan Christmas presents and lots of vegan and vegetarian options for Christmas treats such as vegetarian raclette, I've found this market to be an oasis in an otherwise bustling Christmas city.
Strasbourg
I could not write an article about French Christmas Markets and not include Strasbourg. This city is the crème de la crème of Christmas markets and welcomes nearly 2 million visitors per year. Known as the French Christmas capital, the Christmas market or Christkindelsmärik is the oldest Christmas market in France. Open between November 27th-December 27th this year, the market hosts over 300 chalets with artisan stall and a multitude of food stands. This year Strasbourg city council is taking measures to prepare for an influx of tourists by restricting the flow of tourists so keep this in mind and be strategic when planning your trip. I had the pleasure to visit the Christmas markets on a solo trip that I took in 2021 and that was one of the highlights of my year, and not just because it snowed that day. The gothic and Germanic feel of Strasbourg heightens the Christmas spirit and makes you feel like you're in a fairytale (if you ignore the crowds of tourists). It's a beautiful day out and not a long train ride from Paris, just over two hours.
During your visit I recommend trying some Alsatian Christmas delicacies such as Bredele, which is a sweet and spicy Christmas biscuit originating from the area. Come on an empty stomach and try Alsatian cuisine such as Flammenkuche, a kind of pizza like dough with cream, lardons and onions. I also recommend Choucroute, which is a fermented cabbage dish served with sausage and flavoured with juniper seeds. It's comfort food that warms your stomach- but be aware that if you buy directly from the market you'll definitely be spending a pretty penny. Whilst in Strasbourg I visited the University library which is a really beautiful building. I would also recommend the Alsatian museum which provide wonderful insight into the history of the region and their fierce pride into their roots. When in France the Strasbourg Christmas market is a must see, however it can be extremely crowded which can take away from the magic. If you're looking for a more intimate feel, I would recommend checking out the Colmar Christmas market. Just a short 30 minute train journey from Strasbourg, trains are regular and you'll still be able to get a taste of the Christmas magic without being jostled through the crowds.
Limoges
Last but not least, I have to mention my own city Limoges and our cute Christmas market. This South western city isn't really renowned for it's Christmas market but I think it's a great balance if you're looking for something not too touristy but also full of character. Compared to the bigger cities of Paris and Strasbourg, Limoges is much more low key and very family oriented. The Christmas market spans five separate locations making it an excellent day out with friends and family.
Place de la République
Located in the centre of the city this part of the market serves as the main hub with an eco friendly rollerskating ring, Santa's Grotto, tobogganing and lots of food and drinks stalls and a small selection artisan stalls. This is the place to be and there's always animation going on whether it's music from local samba groups or roller skating discos.
Place de Saint-Michel
Each evening between 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., from November 29 to December 29, 2024.there is a free sound and lights show "Secrets of a Winter Night" showing every 10 minutes. It's reminiscent of a scene from Frozen but warms the hearts of both adults and children
Place de la Motte
There's a smaller but equally attractive market in Place de la Motte, just a five minute walk from Place de la République, through the shopping streets of Rue du Clocher and Rue du Consulat. At the centre, a large carrousel shaped like a Christmas tree, you cant miss it as it's usually surrounded by awe struck children. Here you can find an array of food stands , from Hungarian "kurtos' and even Italian dishes.
Parvis de la Cathedrale
Located in the historical cathedral district there is an artisan market. With two large marquee, discover local Limousin delicacies and products such as fondant à la châtaigne (Chestnut fondant) as well as independent artists and craftsmen creating handmade gifts for you to share with your loved ones (jewellery, clothing, spirits and alcoholic beverages). There's also a series of food trucks on hand for if you get peckish serving dishes like crepes, oysters and more.
Champs de Juillet
Just a stone's throw away from Limoges Train Station (voted the most beautiful train station in France might I add) is the Champs de Juillet. Throughout December there's a fairground proving fun for all of the family!
And there you have it, Tash' guide to French Christmas Markets. Whether you're visiting France this year or looking for inspiration for a trip next Christmas I hope that this guide has been helpful. Do let me know what are some of your favourite Christmas markets in the comments, I'm always looking to add to my ever growing list.
From my family to yours, wishing you all the best this holiday season and I'll see you in 2025 with more blog posts and more travel adventures on Oui!Si!Yes!
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