France has many wonderful Christmas markets. But three stand out from the rest. Don’t miss these three magical Christmas Markets in France!
These Christmas markets are all in the Alsace region of France. Many cities in this region have passed between French and German control over the centuries. That gives these cities an interesting mix of both French and German influence.
You’ll see this influence in the delicious food you eat and the amazing architecture you see.
Now let’s check out these three magical Christmas Markets in France!
Related:
- 6 Best Things You Need to Eat at French Christmas Markets
- France Christmas Market Packing Guide: What You Need to Pack
1. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg has hosted its Christmas market, or Christkindelsmärik, for over four centuries. That makes it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.
Throughout the city, you’ll find wooden stalls filled with Christmas crafts, decor, and food.
Because of the sheer size of Strasbourg’s Christmas market, I recommend getting a map before you do anything else. You can find a map of all the Christmas stall locations close to one of the entrances.
You can use the map to plan out your day and see everything you’d like to see.
Two items you’ll definitely want to see up close:
- The Strasbourg Cathedral: At 466 feet tall, the cathedral is easy to see throughout the city. Make sure to take some pictures of the Christmas market with the cathedral as the backdrop.
- The Strasbourg Christmas tree: The Christmas tree also towers above its surroundings. The tree is usually around 100 feet tall. You can find it in Strasbourg’s Place Kléber.
2. Colmar, France
Next up is the Colmar Christmas market!
Of the three magical Christmas markets in France, it’s my opinion that Colmar has the best decor.
The town already looks like a fairytale. Add spectacular Christmas decor to the mix? It’s the stuff of Christmas dreams.
Two of my favorite spots to visit:
- Boulangerie Pâtisserie Claude Kraetz (6 Place Jeanne d’Arc): The shutters of this bakery are covered with cut-outs of baked goods, stars, and hearts.
- Maison au Pèlerin (25A Grand Rue): This picturesque building has a white Christmas tree on its north side that is perfect for your next Christmas card photo.
3. Riquewihr, France
Attention, Disney fans! It’s rumored that Riquewihr (and nearby Ribeauvillé) is the real-life inspiration for Belle’s town in Beauty and the Beast. You might catch yourself humming songs from the movie as you wander through the town.
Parking is extremely limited at Riquewihr, so get there first thing in the morning to get a spot.
Getting to Riquewihr early is also key to avoiding some of the heaviest crowds. Most of Riquewihr’s Christmas market is found along Rue du Général de Gaulle. The result is a lot of people in a fairly narrow space.
If it gets too crowded for you, escape into one of the amazing bistros along Rue du Général de Gaulle. It’ll give you a chance to eat some delicious food (like these dishes!) while you wait for the crowds to clear.
I hope these three magical Christmas markets in France have inspired you to start planning your trip. The French Christmas markets are an incredible experience. Happy travels!
Comments or Questions?
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