Will you be visiting France this Christmas?
Oh, it’s something special.
You’ll love visiting each new locality, from sparkling city streets to cosy villages glowing with festive lights.
Here are my ten favourite places to enjoy the holiday season, each with its unique charm and Christmas spirit.
10 Places to Visit in France this Christmas
Most of these locations are in northeast France, where the Christmas traditions are most followed and cherished.
1. Colmar
Colmar’s Christmas markets are straight out of a fairy tale.
This quaint town in Alsace glistens with twinkling lights, its timber-framed houses looking like gingerbread creations.
Stroll through the market stalls, warming up with mulled wine, and enjoy the decorations that make Colmar feel like a cosy winter village.
Learn more about Christmas in Colmar on the blog…
2. Dijon
Dijon might be famous for mustard, but the enchanting lights and decorations take centre stage at Christmas.
The historic buildings are illuminated and warmly glow over the town square.
Wander the festive market and try a delicious gingerbread – it’s a local specialty and tastes even better in the holiday season.
Learn more about Christmas in Dijon on the blog…
3. Lille
![Lille in the snow © Kaelkael - licence [CC BY-SA 3.0] from Wikimedia Commons](https://frenchmoments.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Lille-Winter-©-Kaelkael-licence-CC-BY-SA-3.0-from-Wikimedia-Commons-scaled-1.jpg)
Lille transforms into a winter wonderland in December.
The Christmas market here is large and lively, with a Ferris wheel offering views over the festive city.
Shops brim with holiday gifts and the sweet scent of waffles fills the air.
Lille is perfect for a joyful, bustling Christmas atmosphere.
Learn more about Christmas in Lille on the blog…
4. Metz
Metz is known for its spectacular light displays, which bring out the magic of the city’s architecture.
The Christmas markets are set against historical backdrops, blending tradition and festivity.
Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint Etienne, where the stained glass seems to glow even brighter at Christmastime.
Learn more about Christmas in Metz on the blog…
5. Montbéliard
This small town surprises visitors with one of France’s most charming Christmas markets.
Montbéliard’s streets, decorated with monumental lights, make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
With a lovely local touch, the market here celebrates Germanic traditions with a friendly, warm vibe.
Learn more about Christmas in Montbéliard on the blog…
6. Mulhouse
Mulhouse is unique in that it decorates its Christmas market with specially made festive fabrics inspired by the town’s rich textile history.
The market has a cosy feel, with handmade decorations and warm lights.
Mulled wine and gingerbread make it the perfect spot to relax and soak in the holiday spirit.
Learn more about Christmas in Mulhouse on the blog…
7. Nancy
Nancy’s Place Stanislas becomes a Christmas dreamland, with lights and decorations that make the grand square glow.
Wander through the market stalls for gifts and regional treats, or marvel at the classical buildings adorned with festive lights.
Nancy brings elegance to Christmas like nowhere else.
Learn more about Christmas in Nancy on the blog…
8. Obernai
Obernai, a small Alsatian town, has an irresistibly charming Christmas market.
Traditional crafts, local wines, and regional sweets make it perfect for those looking for a festive escape with an authentic feel.
The decorations here are simple but enchanting, making Obernai a peaceful and cosy holiday destination.
Learn more about Christmas in Obernai on the blog…
9. Paris
Paris at Christmas is magical.
The city’s lights shine along the Champs-Elysées, Place Vendôme, and Montmartre, creating a festive glow over the city.
Shop windows are dazzling, and the Christmas markets by the Eiffel Tower add a touch of romance.
Paris in December is a classic – and for good reason!
Learn more about Christmas in Paris on the blog…
10. Strasbourg
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg sets the standard for Christmas markets.
The historic timber-framed buildings glow under soft lights, and the scent of spices fills the air.
Strasbourg’s decorations are beautiful, and its festive spirit is unmatched.
A must for anyone wanting a magical Christmas experience in France.
Learn more about Christmas in Strasbourg on the blog…
Where will you be in France this Christmas?
So, there you have it – ten unforgettable Christmas destinations in France.
Have you visited any of these, or maybe you have another festive spot in mind?
Let me know – I’d love to hear your recommendations!
