Best Places to Visit in France for Christmas Cheer

France, with its rich culture and history, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. Expats and digital nomads living in France will find that the country offers a plethora of destinations where they can immerse themselves in the festive spirit. From traditional Christmas markets to enchanting light displays, each place provides a unique way to celebrate the holidays. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to experience the joy and charm of a French Christmas.

Strasbourg

Known as the "Capital of Christmas," Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, the Christkindelsmärik. The city's historical center, Grande Île, becomes a festive hub with hundreds of stalls selling traditional Alsatian Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts, and local delicacies. The towering Christmas tree in Place Kléber and the city's half-timbered houses adorned with twinkling lights create a storybook setting. The market typically runs from late November to Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local bredele biscuits, a variety of small traditional Christmas cookies, and the vin chaud (mulled wine), which is a staple at the market.

Lyon

In early December, Lyon becomes illuminated with the Fête des Lumières, a spectacular light festival that pays homage to the Virgin Mary. The city's buildings, streets, and parks are transformed by light installations and projections created by artists from around the world. While there isn't a traditional Christmas market, the event itself brings a unique holiday atmosphere that is not to be missed.

We Recommend: Take a stroll through the Presqu'île district during the festival to see some of the most impressive light displays and enjoy the festive ambiance.

Colmar

Colmar is a picturesque town in Alsace that looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale, especially during the holidays. Its Christmas markets are spread across the old town, each with its own theme and charm. The markets offer a variety of artisanal products, festive decorations, and Alsatian specialties. The town is beautifully decorated with lights and festive ornaments, making it a perfect place to wander and soak in the holiday spirit.

We Recommend: Be sure to taste the mannele, a brioche in the shape of a little man, traditionally eaten on Saint Nicholas Day in December.

Lille

Lille hosts a delightful Christmas market in the Place Rihour, where visitors can find a wide array of gifts, nativity figurines, and holiday treats. The Ferris wheel at the Grand Place offers stunning views of the city adorned in festive lights. The market usually runs from late November until the end of December.

We Recommend: Try the local waffles and speculoos, a spiced shortcrust biscuit, which are particularly popular during the Christmas season.

Paris - Montmartre Neighborhood

The Montmartre neighborhood in Paris exudes a special charm during the holidays, with its cobblestone streets and artistic heritage. The area around Sacré-Cœur Basilica features a quaint Christmas market with artisanal crafts and seasonal treats. The panoramic view of Paris from the hilltop is even more enchanting with the city's holiday lights twinkling below.

We Recommend: Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate from one of the local cafés as you take in the stunning views of the city.

Reims

Reims, in the heart of the Champagne region, offers a festive Christmas market in front of its impressive Gothic cathedral. The market is a great place to shop for Champagne and regional products, as well as traditional holiday items. The city's decorations and light shows add to the festive atmosphere, making it a great destination for those looking to celebrate the season in style.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the pink biscuits of Reims, which are often dipped in Champagne for an extra festive treat.

Aix-en-Provence

The Christmas market in Aix-en-Provence is a Provençal holiday tradition, with stalls offering santons, hand-painted terracotta nativity figures that are a staple in the region. The Cours Mirabeau is lined with chalets selling crafts, decorations, and local culinary specialties. The town is also known for its beautiful Christmas cribs and pastoral scenes that reflect the region's culture.

We Recommend: Sample the calissons d'Aix, a traditional French candy made from ground almonds topped with a layer of royal icing.

Annecy

Annecy, often referred to as the "Venice of the Alps," is magical during the holiday season with its canals and medieval architecture. The Christmas market here is smaller but offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Artisans sell unique gifts, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air. The town's decorations and lights reflect beautifully on the water, creating a serene holiday experience.

We Recommend: Try the tartiflette, a hearty Savoyard dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons, and onions, perfect for warming up on a cold December evening.

Nice

Nice on the French Riviera might not be the first place that comes to mind for a traditional Christmas experience, but its holiday market is a vibrant mix of French and Mediterranean traditions. The Christmas Village at Place Masséna features chalets selling crafts, decorations, and regional specialties. The nearby Promenade des Anglais is beautifully lit, and the mild climate allows for a more relaxed holiday shopping experience.

We Recommend: Indulge in the socca, a local chickpea flour pancake that is a delicious and unique treat to the region.