There’s nothing quite as festive and fun as an authentic Christmas break in France. Wandering along charming squares and frosty cobbled streets where the breath-taking ancient architecture of historic cities provides the perfect backdrop for the twinkling Christmas lights in December is magical. Check out our ultimate guide to Christmas in France.

Warm up with a mug of spicy mulled wine and nibble sweet roasted chestnuts at the dazzling Christmas markets while you listen to the soft sounds of seasonal songs around a Christmas tree and shop at dinky, decorated fairy-tale-like chalets teeming with unique artisan-made gifts. Indulge in scrumptiously sweet cakes, wonder at the lavish Christmas decorations and sip hot chocolate in cosy cafés.

Find your perfect French Christmas match…

Guide to Christmas in France 2022

Christmas in Paris

From the end of November Paris takes on a festive look. Shops are busy with people looking for Christmas gifts, fine food stores are full of exceptional products, excited children rush to look at toys displayed in shop windows … And above all, the loveliest streets and avenues in the city are decked out in magical lights. More than ever, the capital lives up to its name as the ‘City of Light’! Be captivated by the Christmas season in Paris.

Click on the links below for loads more details:

Christmas markets in Paris

Best places for the Christmas lights in Paris

Where to shop for gifts and sweet treats in Paris

10 things to do on Christmas Eve in Paris

15 things to do on Christmas Day in Paris

Best things to do in Paris in Winter

And finally, carousel rides for kids are free on carousels across Paris from the last week of December to the first week of January!

Christmas markets in Alsace and Loraine

The French Christmas markets were started in Strasbourg in the 16th Century, it was where Christmas trees were first taken into people’s homes, and also where the Christmas bauble was invented!

Yes – those wonderful French Christmas markets we all love so much started right there in Alsace almost 500 years ago. The first one took place in Strasbourg in 1570 – it’s still going strong and the “Christkindelsmärik,” as it is known, is the oldest Christmas market in France.  Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas”.

Not surprisingly other villages and towns in Alsace followed the example set by trendy Strasbourg and now there are more than 100 Christmas markets in Alsace. Click the links below for more details:

Strasbourg Christmas market

Mulhouse Christmas Market

Colmar Christmas market

Village Christmas market in Riquewihr, Alsace

Metz Christmas market and fabulous Lantern festival

Christmas in northern France

Northern France loves its Christmas markets! The scent of roasting chestnuts, mulled wine and spicy gingerbread fills the air. Lights twinkle, the aromas from gourmet stalls offer a tantalising hint of gastronomic delights, and chairs on pavements outside cafés are full of people sipping wine or chocolat chaud and enjoying the festive feeling. Click on the links below for more details:

Lille Christmas market – 4000 shops, a great Christmas market and snow village, bucket loads of culture, what’s not to love!

Bethune Christmas market – friendly, festive and fabulously authentic

Boulogne-sur-Mer – If you like your Christmas markets cosy, authentic and utterly pretty, this one is for you.

Arras – a lovely authentic Christmas market

Le Touquet – a truly pretty Christmas market and lovely festive lights.

Licques Fete des Dindes – the quirkiest Christmas festival in France. Turkeys parading in the streets, a fabulous gourmet market and a tea dance for 1000 people!

Christmas chateaux

French chateaux and Christmas – it’s a perfect partnership! Several of the big name castles put on a show at Christmas including the magnificent Vaux-le-Vicomte where they go all out festive with thousands of lights and decorations. The Loire Valley is a wonderful place to be at Christmas – many châteaux will be dressing up in their Christmas finery, and the entire city of Blois will make merry with its Winter Festival. Click on the links below for more details:

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte goes full on glamorous for Christmas

Chenonceau, the castle of flowers  and other great Lorie Valley Chateaux at Christmas

More Christmas markets

Reims Christmas Market

Christmas markets in Pays de la Loire

Rouen Christmas market

Delicious recipes with a French festive flavour

In our guide to Christmas in France 2019 – of course we have to include some delicious dishes! Christmas in France is all about food and enjoying a meal with your friends and family. In the land of French Cuisine, where gastronomy has been recognised with a UNESCO world heritage rating, Christmas is a time to indulge and enjoy the best of fabulous French food. The focus at this time is firmly on the table.

Oeufs en Cocotte – perfect French breakfast at Christmas

Kugelhopf cake by Rachel Khoo of My Little French Kitchen

Ham hock terrine with soused vegetables by Raymond Blanc who says this is perfect for a Christmas buffet

Chocolate orange truffles

How to make a French Buche de Noel – yule log

Michel Roux’s chestnut and apple soup

Christmas flavoured classic Champagne cocktails

Christmas Paris Brest cake

Chocolate macarons by Pierre Hermé of Paris

Spiced mulled pears French style

Chocolate cake truffles

Galette des Rois – the cake of Kings, eaten at Christmas and New year and almost obligatory for 6 January, the day of the Epiphany.

Snails in garlic butter

Christmas tours

Provence at Christmas is truly special and a brilliant time to discover the secrets of Provence. The famous 13 desserts of Christmas, the pretty markets, wine and truffles, amazing food and the prettiest villages and towns decorated for the season. Find out more about Provence Christmas tours…

Ophorus host private and shared half day and day Alsace market Christmas tours including visits to nearby German Christmas markets from Strasbourg

And finally for some festive cheer – follow us on Facebook and enjoy our famous Advent Calendar photos…

The post The ultimate guide to Christmas in France appeared first on The Good Life France.

Christmas markets Paris 2019, the dates, details and locations. Take in the sight of the twinkling city of light, warm up with a chocolat chaud or mulled wine. Wander the cobbled streets, elegant squares and legendary public gardens. The Christmas markets of Paris will definitely bring out the happy in you!

The Christmas lights will be switched on in Paris on 20 November 2022 at 17h until 2 January 2023. Thousands of lights and decorations in more than 125 squares and streets will twinkle, flash and glitter. The dazzling display combines traditional lights and modern sparkle using Led technology. The lights will be on from 17h until 11.45 pm each day (switched off earlier than usual) More about the Christmas lights in Paris

Christmas markets Paris 2022

There are plenty of Christmas markets in the city. You’ll find roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, festive produce, artisan gifts and loads more to tempt you Here are just a few of the best:

La Defense – it’s the business district so not greatly touristic but the Christmas market is one of the biggest in the city. It has a great atmosphere and it’s popular with locals as they know they’ll find a really good range of gifts. La Defense Christmas market: 26 November 2022 – 4 January 2023.

Montmartre by Sacre-Coeur. Small but perfectly but very cute plus the views across the city are wonderful, the vibe is magical. If I could only go to one Christmas market in Paris, this would be it! When? 10-31 December 2022. There’s also a market at Place des Abbesses at the bottom of the hill from end November 2022 through December.

Notre-Dame, next to the Cathedral in Place Viviani you’ll find the Christmas arts and crafts market. As you listen to the bells peal in this iconic location you’ll really feel like its Christmas. Pop across the square to the lovely flower market of Paris where you’ll find shops brimming not just with beautiful flowers and plants but some really cute and quirky gifts.  When? 9-26 November, 2022

Christmas markets in parks and stations and legendary sites

Jardin des Tuileries: After closing the Christmas market of the Champs-Elysees, a new one opened in the Jardin des Tuileries in the shadow of the Louvre. 120 chalets, Ferris wheel, ice rink, puppet shows, a gourmet village and French craftsmen make this a lively and festive affair. Christmas market Tuileries 19 November 2022 – 8 January 2023.

Eiffel Tower: Chalets and activities including an ice rink that’s very popular. When?  Throughout December 2022.

Alsatian Christmas market at Gare de l’Est: A 100% Alsatian Christmas market! Find a wide choice of local delicacies: pretzels, bredele, gingerbread, fresh pasta, foie gras, charcuterie in front of the station at Gare de I’Est. Enjoy free tastings with a different programme every day from gingerbread to sparkling wine and Munster cheese. The market here is all about the gourmet traditions of Alsatian Christmas! Kougelhopf, potato pancakes, wine, choucroute etc. Gare de l’Est Christmas market: 11 November – 16 December 2022.

There are more Christmas markets in Paris than we’ve listed here, check at www.parisinfo.com for all the latest information and date confirmations.

Don’t forget to stop off for delicious hot chocolate to warm up or nip into a museum to chill out, there are some great free museums in Paris so you can save your Euros for spending on gifts!

More on Christmas in Paris

15 things to do in Paris on Christmas Day
Christmas shopping in Paris for gifts
Christmas shopping in Paris – sweets and foodie treats
The best Christmas video of Paris. Ever.
Christmas in Paris from your armchair

The post Christmas markets in Paris appeared first on The Good Life France.

Strasbourg isn’t just one of the most beautiful cities in France. It’s also home to the “Christkindelsmärik” a spectacular Christmas market and one of the oldest in Europe. It’s where you’ll find the highest Christmas tree in Europe, and if that’s not enough to bring you out in a severe dose of Christmas fever, there are several more Christmas markets in the city. Oh yes, it’s also the most illuminated city in Europe in December. No wonder it’s called the “Capital of Christmas”. A former winner of “Best European Christmas market destination” – here’s all you need to know about Strasbourg at Christmas…

History of Strasbourg Christmas Market

It began in 1570 in front of the Gothic Cathedral with just a few stands. Today there are more than 300 market stalls spread throughout the city. The heart of the market remains in Place Broglie (where it moved to in 1870) and Place de la Cathédrale, the lovely medieval square in front of Strasbourg’s graceful Gothic cathedral.

What makes Strasbourg Christmas Market so special

Strasbourg’s Christmas atmosphere really is unique. The city is adorned in its most beautiful finery, the houses are richly decorated and at nightfall the illuminations are nothing short of astonishing. The “Carré d’Or” (the “Golden Square” which encompasses the city’s prettiest streets) is especially spectacular. Don’t miss the rue des Hallebardes, with its magnificent crystal chandeliers hanging in glass boxes above the street – only in France!

And, don’t forget to pop into the pharmacy at No. 10 Place de la Cathédrale. It’s the oldest pharmacy in France and well worth stopping off for. This lovely area is full of pretty houses including the Maison Kamerzell built in 1571, a fabulous example of Renaissance architecture.

At the heart of this latticework of Christmas lights, the Cathedral is bathed in golden light. Throughout December, Strasbourg is the most illuminated city in Europe – if you’re a fan of Christmas, you’re going to love it.

Strasbourg Christmas markets 2022

Expect to have your Christmas spirit lifted with scents of spices, cinnamon, mulled wine and bredle biscuits. A profusion of garlands, Christmas decorations, cribs, nativity scene figures and advent wreaths decorate the streets. Stalls are piled with traditional pottery, tablecloths, decorations and handmade toys at the colourful markets. This is the place to buy great arts and crafts. From glass paintings, marquetry, music boxes and embroidered tablecloths to earthenware pottery. The food stalls will certainly tempt you. Spiced bread, kugelhopf cake, berawecka cake, traditional sweets and cakes, mulled wine and, of course, foie gras.

You will find the Strasbourg Christmas markets at:

The “Christkindelsmärik”, Place Broglie. There are around 100 chalets tempt you to buy artisan goods, decorations and local products.

The Christmas Market, Place de la Cathédrale. You’ll find it front of the Gothic cathedral – it’s picturesque and has a lovely atmosphere.

And, there are several themed markets where you can buy speciality produce from the local area, gifts and more. Details from the tourist office website (below).

Strasbourg has hosted a traditional Christmas tree for centuries. An ancient manuscript from 1605 describes decorated fir trees placed in Strasbourg’s guild houses during Advent. Every year, a thirty-metre tall Christmas tree is brought to Place Kléber. It’s decorated with colourful ornaments and shimmering lights. It is the highest decorated Christmas tree in Europe and its best to visit at 5 p.m. when the lights come on.

There are concerts, carol singing, storytelling, a carousel, ice rink and entertainments. Everything you  need to make your Christmas trip complete!

Finally, don’t miss a visit to La Petite France, located on the Grande Île (Main Island). The river splits up into a number of canals and cascades through a small area of medieval half-timbered houses and baroque sandstone buildings. You’ll also find a year-round Christmas decorations shop here too!

When: From 25 November to 30 December 2022

More on Christmas in France

20 beautiful images of France at Christmas

More on Strasbourg

What to see and do in Strasbourg
Where to eat out in Strasbourg
The best museums in Strasbourg
Instragram-worthy Strasbourg in pictures

visitstrasbourg.fr

Can’t make it to Strasbourg Christmas Market this year? Make your own traditional Alsacian Kugelhopf cake at home with Rachel Khoo‘s wonderful recipe.

The post Strasbourg Christmas Market, Alsace appeared first on The Good Life France.

Since it began in 1990, Mulhouse Christmas Market has grown to be one of the most popular and authentic Christmas Markets in Alsace. And that’s not easy. Up against Strasbourg and Colmar, Mulhouse had to work at being different in order to stand out – so they made it one of the most colourful markets in France. This town literally puts on its finest festive attire at Christmas. We discover all about the Mulhouse Christmas market and what to see and do in the area…

Mulhouse Christmas Market 2022

At the heart of the textile industry in Alsace, Mulhouse creates a unique Christmas fabric each year in tribute to its proud heritage. The material is hung over the facades of the chalets selling lovely artisan gifts and delicious products at the Christmas market. The streets of the town centre are also decorated with this luxurious material. And the famous Renaissance former town hall is dressed up in it (above).

The Christmas market takes place on the Place de la Réunion, before the enormous neo-Gothic church of Saint-Etienne, the largest protestant building in France. The market, with around 100 chalets, has a reputation for its friendly atmosphere.

There’s a Ferris Wheel, huge Christmas tree – as tall as the one in Strasbourg at 30 metres – and the streets are teeming with twinkling fairy lights.

Mulhouse Christmas market: 24 November to 27 December, 2022

Don’t miss near Mulhouse at Christmas

Whatever you do, make time for the EcoMusée d’Alsace – it’s a great visit, and especially so at Christmas. Around 18km from Mulhouse in the town of Ungersheim this is the largest open-air museum in France. It’s a reproduction of an Alsacian village of the early 20^th century created from old buildings that would otherwise be destroyed. There are ore than 70 buildings – from houses to farms, schools, railway stations and more, and a collection of 40,000 articles is on show.

Throughout December this unusual museum puts up 150 Christmas trees, window decorations and Christmas events. www.ecomusee.alsace/en/

Take a detour to Thann which is classified as a “Plus Beaux Detour” destination. It’s just 20km from Mulhouse and reachable by train. It’s charming and authentic little town, nestled at the base of the Vosges Mountains. This snowy winter destination is truly enchanting and it’s where you’ll find traditional farm-mountain inns for a hearty feast. The town hosts a pretty Christmas market from the last week of November to Christmas Eve.

A little further afield, visit Parc Wesserling in the town of Husseren-Wesseing. A 40 minute drive from Mulhouse, this private manor house hosts a “Christmas in the Garden” show. The beautiful garden twinkles as thousands of lights shine. You need to book in advance for this event, which has a new theme every year. Expect musicians, acrobats and fun – it’s very popular with the locals!

More in Mulhouse at Christmas

Take a break from Christmas cheer and check out the many museums in Mulhouse. You’re seriously spoiled for choice but the two big must-sees are the Cité de l’Automobile car museum (the biggest in the world) and the Train Museum.

Pop to the Café Mozart for a scrumptious cake (opposite the Church of St. Etienne). You can get great snacks here but it’s the cakes they’re really famous for!

Read more about Mulhouse

Find out more about Mulhouse at: www.tourisme-mulhouse.com/EN

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If you love Christmas markets, fabulous architecture, streets lined with great shops and unique boutiques and great gastronomy – the Metz must be on your must-do list…

The city of Metz is in Moselle in Lorraine, north-eastern France (Alsace-Lorraine). It borders Luxembourg, Belgium and Germany, and you can reach it in less than an hour and a half by train from Paris. It’s definitely a year-round destination with the incredible Metz Pompidou, the more than 800 year old Gothic Cathedral with the third highest nave in France, museums, wonderful architecture and superb restaurants galore. But as Christmas approaches, Metz puts on its festive best, opens several Christmas markets including one dedicated solely to food, and lights up the Sentier des Lanternes – more about this magical light show in a minute…

Merry ChristMetz! Christmas markets galore

Metz is Christmas central. Not just one Christmas market here. There are five Christmas markets spread around this compact city in a sort of ring around the great Gothic Cathedral. It’s easy to visit them all on foot or hop on the free navette buses that traverse the city.

Head to Place de la Republique for loads of traditional chalets specialising in local products and gorgeous gifts made by local artisans. There’s are two German Christmas Pyramid bars. You’ll find the aroma of mulled wine and hot chocolate is alluring and the sight of the lit carousel-like-tops rotating is mesmerising. Did you know that the German pyramid decorations were the pre-cursor to Christmas trees – which originated in neighbouring Alsace in the 16^th century? If you happen to be at the Christmas market when the Meisenthal glassware chalet is open, don’t miss the chance to buy a Christmas bauble. They’re are famous in these parts and make wonderful family heirloom Christmas decorations.

In Place Saint-Louis there is a traditional gifts Christmas market where the scent of gingerbread will make you smile. There’s also a carousel. In Place d’Armes, there are more Christmas chalets. Plus there’s a Ferris Wheel from which you will have the most incredible views over the illuminated Cathedral. And in Place Saint-Jacques, there are beautiful specialist artisan products on offer from food to gifts. Meanwhile at Place de la Comédie the whole Christmas market is devoted to food. And it’s the perfect place to pop for a snack, aperitifs or a delicious meal. Food is cooked on site, and tables and chairs welcome you to stop for a break.

As if all this Christmas spirit is not enough – there is also the Sentier des Lanternes…

Sentier des Lanternes – a luminous Christmas event

Around the beginning of November, a flurry of activity takes place over three weeks as the Lantern Trail – the sentier des Lanternes is set up. It transforms the Place Boufflers in the centre of Metz, a stone’s throw from the Christmas market in Place de la Republique. In 2010, inspired by the Night of Lights in Montreal, Canada, the tourist office created the first Lantern Trail. Since then, this luminous Christmas event has grown and grown. In 2021 it featured more than 1 million LED lights, 2000 lit up figures including a gingerbread house, and a 4 metre high Saint Nicolas on his donkey! There are 9 kilometres of cable involved on an area of 3000sqm.

Those are the statistics. But when you go, it’s all about the magic.

Metz’s Lantern Trail is enchanting. And no matter what your age, it will make you happy and give you that warm Christmassy feeling. The ‘lanterns’ are giant light sculptures – snowflakes, gingerbread men, elves, toy soldiers, lollipops, teddy bears, rabbits on scooters. Trees are decorated with LED lights so that they look as if they have come from the Magic Faraway Forest. It’s like your dream of Christmas came true, and you woke up in a Christmas wonderland…

Christmas fare

The Messines – people from Metz – are hugely proud of their local produce. From Mirabelle plums to sensational wine, gorgeous glassware, there’s a lot for them to be proud of. Apart from the Christmas markets, there are shopping streets aplenty. Nip to the tourist office to pick up details of the best areas. But, don’t miss cobbled rue Taison which is beautifully decorated for Christmas and where a dragon hangs across the street! Named Graouly, the dragon is said to have lived in Metz, in an amphitheatre built by the Romans. It terrorised the inhabitants until the Bishop of Metz who became Saint Clement, drowned the monster in the River Seille.

See the Metz Tourist office for details of Christmas festivities and much more: tourisme-metz.com

Find out more about Christmas in Moselle: noelsdemoselle.fr

Where to stay

There are plenty of hotels in the city but I like the 4* MGallery La Citadelle Hotel in a former 16^th century military building for its superb décor and great restaurant (5 Ave Ney). The 3* Hotel de la Cathedrale is in two 17^th century houses and once hosted writers Madame de Stael and Chateaubriand (Place de Chambre).

Where to eat

El Theatris in Place de la Comédie on the Petit Saulcy island in the centre of Metz is a gastronomic delight. This is a town of gourmands though, so you’ll find plenty of restaurants as you wander.

How to get there

TGV trains from Paris will get you there in just 1 hour 25 minutes.

Luxembourg airport (international flights) is one hour by car.

From Strasbourg, the train takes from 55 minutes. Nancy is from 48 minutes by train.

If you do take the train, leave time to see the station, next to Metz Pompidou Centre. It’s a listed historic building and is quite possibly the most beautiful train station in France. Built between 1905-1908 when Metz was under German rule, it was commissioned by Kaiser Wilhelm II who had an apartment created there. The architecture is extraordinary and it has a Cathedral like to feel to it.

The post Christmas markets of Metz, Moselle appeared first on The Good Life France.

We look at some fabulously festive cities to visit in France at Christmas. You’re guaranteed a bit of Christmas magic here!

Strasbourg – the capital of Christmas

Head for Strasbourg‘s Christmas market. Known locally as the Christkindelsmarik, it’s the oldest in Europe. From the end of November to the end of December it’s full of beautiful lights and decorations. There is a most festive Christmas market and the tallest decorated Christmas tree in Europe.  Take a boat ride, wander from one Christmas market to another – there are eleven, and prepare to be awed by the fabulous decorations on almost every street.

Sarlat – medieval and Christmassy

In the year-round-gorgeous Dordogne, the town of Sarlat hosts three weeks of colour and warmth at its Christmas village. It’s made up of forty-two charming chalets set up around an ice skating rink. The village showcases the work of craftsmen from all over France and a variety of goods are on offer to provide you with unforgettable gift ideas.

Gourmets will appreciate the many products to be enjoyed on site or taken away. Truffles, walnuts, foie gras are some of the favourites of the locals. There’s a tavern at the heart of the market where you can warm up with a mulled wine or Christmas beer. The festive atmosphere and enchanting holiday décor are lovely.  Starts early December www.sarlat-tourisme.com

Dijon – fabulously festive and foodie

Place de la République in Dijon is even more vibrant than usual at Christmas with little wooden chalets in a magnificent location. There is an ice rink in the Place de la Liberation and a little train for rides at Place Darcy. Don’t miss the superb market, Dijon is a foodie paradise. See tourist office website for details. www.visitdijon.com 

Reims – bubbles at Christmas

The Christmas market at Reims is the biggest in the region. It’s also one of the largest in France with 135 chalets offering a range of gourmet products, arts and crafts and creative gift suggestions. This renowned market is held annually in the tree-lined pedestrian streets around Place d’Erlon and the city centre, all beautifully illuminated and decorated. There’s also an international craft market, ice-skating rink and Santa’s Grotto in the Place du Forum. There’s  a traditional funfair and Ferris Wheel offering spectacular views over this coronation city. And a sound and light show at the Cathedra. Plus events, creative workshops and concerts throughout the region. Enjoy gourmet food, crafts and festive gifts and of course a glass or two of the fizzy stuff.

Open every day from end November to end December. More info www.champagne-ardenne-tourism.co.uk

Paris – city of  Christmas  Lights

The City of Light goes all out fabulous and festive for Christmas. Don’t miss the gorgeous Christmas tree at Galleries Lafayette, go ice skating at the Eiffel Tower, drink hot chocolate at a terraced cafe and visit one of Paris’ many Christmas markets. And window show until you drop…

Tours – Loire Valley Chateaux

Many of the Loire Valley Chateaux put on their winter and Christmas finery for real wow factor appeal and Tours makes for a great base. From here head to the stunning chateau of Chenonceau,  full of sumptuous floral bouquets. Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, Chinon, Langeais and Loches all put on a show. From the beginning of December to the beginning of January, these Loire Valley châteaux get into the festive spirit with exceptional tours and events.

Montpellier – Mediterraean style at Christmas

Discover Montpellier in its winter clothes! From the end of November to the end of December, Montpellier lights up in vibrant colours for a Mediterranean style Christmas. There is a traditional market, local crafts and parades. During the whole month, there’s a festive atmosphere on the Place de la Comédie, in the heart of Montpellier.

Lille – jewel of the north

From the last week in November to end December, the Grand Place in Lille will be transformed with chalets, a Ferris wheel and an 18 metre-high Christmas tree. There is a lively Christmas market in Place Rihour. With thousands of shops  from high street to unique boutique, Christmas shopping here is on a different level. More on the Christmas market at Lille. lilletourism.com

More on Lille Christmas market

For a truly charming Christmas market head to Boulogne-sur-Mer (about 30 minutes from Calais port) for the middle weekend of Decemver. Head to the Old Town to find elves, knights animals, festive stalls, beautiful decorations galore. There are lovely light displays in this really authentic Christmas market. Warm up at the newly extended NAUSICAA, Europe’s largest aquarium – it’s astonishingly good.

Read more about Boulogne Christmas market

Annecy – Christmas in the mountains

This lovely city in the French Aps, Haute Savoie is gorgeous year round. At Christmas, it’s not unusual to have snow fall and then the city really takes on a magical glow. Fabulous restaurants, close to the ski resorts of Annecy Mountains, castles and a stunning market make this an out and out Christmas destination extraordinaire…

More on Christmas in France

How to spend Christmas Eve in Paris
15 things to do on Christmas Day in Paris

The post 10 festive cities to visit in France at Christmas appeared first on The Good Life France.

There’s nothing quite as festive and fun as an authentic Christmas break in France. Wandering along charming squares and frosty cobbled streets where the breath-taking ancient architecture of historic cities provides the perfect backdrop for the twinkling Christmas lights in December is magical. Check out our ultimate guide to Christmas in France 2019.

Warm up with a mug of spicy mulled wine and nibble sweet roasted chestnuts at the dazzling Christmas markets while you listen to the soft sounds of seasonal songs around a Christmas tree and shop at dinky, decorated fairy-tale-like chalets teeming with unique artisan-made gifts. Indulge in scrumptiously sweet cakes, wonder at the lavish Christmas decorations and sip hot chocolate in cosy cafés.

Find your perfect French Christmas match…

Guide to Christmas in France 2019

Christmas in Paris

From the end of November Paris takes on a festive look. Shops are busy with people looking for Christmas gifts, fine food stores are full of exceptional products, excited children rush to look at toys displayed in shop windows … And above all, the loveliest streets and avenues in the city are decked out in magical lights. More than ever, the capital lives up to its name as the ‘City of Light’! Be captivated by the Christmas season in Paris.

Click on the links below for loads more details:

Christmas markets in Paris

Best places for the Christmas lights in Paris

Where to shop for gifts and sweet treats in Paris

10 things to do on Christmas Eve in Paris

15 things to do on Christmas Day in Paris

Best things to do in Paris in Winter

And finally, carousel rides for kids are free on carousels across Paris from the last week of December to the first week of January!

Christmas markets in Alsace

The French Christmas markets were started in Strasbourg in the 16th Century, it was where Christmas trees were first taken into people’s homes, and also where the Christmas bauble was invented!

Yes – those wonderful French Christmas markets we all love so much started right there in Alsace almost 500 years ago. The first one took place in Strasbourg in 1570 – it’s still going strong and the “Christkindelsmärik,” as it is known, is the oldest Christmas market in France.  Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas”.

Not surprisingly other villages and towns in Alsace followed the example set by trendy Strasbourg and now there are more than 100 Christmas markets in Alsace. Click the links below for more details:

Strasbourg Christmas market

Mulhouse Christmas Market

Colmar Christmas market

Village Christmas market in Riquewihr, Alsace

Christmas in northern France

Northern France loves its Christmas markets! The scent of roasting chestnuts, mulled wine and spicy gingerbread fills the air. Lights twinkle, the aromas from gourmet stalls offer a tantalising hint of gastronomic delights, and chairs on pavements outside cafés are full of people sipping wine or chocolat chaud and enjoying the festive feeling. Click on the links below for more details:

Lille Christmas market – 4000 shops, a great Christmas market and snow village, bucket loads of culture, what’s not to love!

Bethune Christmas market – friendly, festive and fabulously authentic

Boulogne-sur-Mer – If you like your Christmas markets cosy, authentic and utterly pretty, this one is for you.

Arras – a lovely authentic Christmas market

Le Touquet – a truly pretty Christmas market and lovely festive lights.

Licques Fete des Dindes – the quirkiest Christmas festival in France. Turkeys parading in the streets, a fabulous gourmet market and a tea dance for 1000 people!

Christmas chateaux

French chateaux and Christmas – it’s a perfect partnership! Several of the big name castles put on a show at Christmas including the magnificent Vaux-le-Vicomte where they go all out festive with thousands of lights and decorations. The Loire Valley is a wonderful place to be at Christmas – many châteaux will be dressing up in their Christmas finery, and the entire city of Blois will make merry with its Winter Festival. Click on the links below for more details:

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte goes full on glamorous for Christmas

Chenonceau, the castle of flowers  and other great Lorie Valley Chateaux at Christmas

More Christmas markets

Reims Christmas Market

Christmas markets in Pays de la Loire

Rouen Christmas market

Delicious recipes with a French festive flavour

In our guide to Christmas in France 2019 – of course we have to include some delicious dishes! Christmas in France is all about food and enjoying a meal with your friends and family. In the land of French Cuisine, where gastronomy has been recognised with a UNESCO world heritage rating, Christmas is a time to indulge and enjoy the best of fabulous French food. The focus at this time is firmly on the table.

Oeufs en Cocotte – perfect French breakfast at Christmas

Kugelhopf cake by Rachel Khoo of My Little French Kitchen

Ham hock terrine with soused vegetables by Raymond Blanc who says this is perfect for a Christmas buffet

Chocolate orange truffles

How to make a French Buche de Noel – yule log

Michel Roux’s chestnut and apple soup

Christmas flavoured classic Champagne cocktails

Christmas Paris Brest cake

Chocolate macarons by Pierre Hermé of Paris

Spiced mulled pears French style

Chocolate cake truffles

Galette des Rois – the cake of Kings, eaten at Christmas and New year and almost obligatory for 6 January, the day of the Epiphany.

Snails in garlic butter

Christmas tours

A week long magical tour of the Christmas markets of Alsace including cooking classes with a French chef, wine tasting and exploring the fairy-tale villages of Alsace as well as the main markets.

Provence at Christmas is truly special and a brilliant time to discover the secrets of Provence. The famous 13 desserts of Christmas, the pretty markets, wine and truffles, amazing food and the prettiest villages and towns decorated for the season. Find out more about Provence Christmas tours…

Ophorus host private and shared half day and day Alsace market Christmas tours including visits to nearby German Christmas markets from Strasbourg

And finally for some festive cheer – follow us on Facebook and enjoy our famous Advent Calendar photos…

The post The ultimate guide to Christmas in France 2019 appeared first on The Good Life France.

Christmas at the  Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte combines a historic, stunning castle with a fairy-tale-like festive display. In 1661, the famous French writer and poet Jean de la Fontaine wrote of the Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte:

The stage was set with green so lush, and by a hundred torches lit; Once curtain raised, all Vaux was hushed. All strove to please this King of ours: Music, cascades, lanterns and stars…

More than 350 years later, those guests who strove to please the King would certainly recognise the castle. And, de la Fontaine’s description would be unchanged other than that it is not a King who will thrill to the sight but visitors who will relish the music, cascades, lanterns and stars on show at Vaux at Christmas.

The fairy tale castle of Vaux-le-Vicomte at Christmas

Just 35 minutes by train from Gare de l’Est in the centre of Paris brings you to the train station Verneuil l’Etang from where a shuttle bus whisks you to the historic 17th century Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte. It is an extraordinary castle, the blueprint for Versailles (in fact it was the start of the TV series Versailles) and drove a king mad with jealousy. Read the full history of the Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte.

At Christmas it takes on an extra layer of glitter and air of enchantment. The rooms are decorated with thousands of lights, garlands and baubles and this captivating castle presents a unique festive show.

Sparkles, twinkles, the smell of Christmas spices and chocolate, traditional carol songs and glowing lights will bring out your inner Santa. But this is no Disney castle, Vaux-le-Vicomte’s Christmas coat is traditional, classic, elegant and just a little kitsch, as the best Christmas’s should be.

Rooms are adorned with lights, Christmas trees and vintage toys, scented with cinnamon and chocolate, spices and sweet smells. It’s a unique presentation of Christmas in an incredible setting.

As you walk up the path to the chateau, it’s a wow moment. Glittering Christmas trees line the route to the grand doors that leads into the largest private domaine in France.

50 years of visitors

Incredibly the chateau was a wedding present to the current resident, Count Patrice de Voguë, in 1967. He has made it his life’s work to protect the castle for future generations. A chateau of this size isn’t easy or cheap to maintain. So, he opened the doors to the public in 1968, inspired by the British National Trust (which is entrusted with opening buildings of major interest to the public), and in particular by Highgrove House, home to Prince Charles.

The Count’s son Alexandre, who together with his brothers Ascanio and Jean-Charles now runs the estate, says that his father began the Christmas at the Chateau event in 2005. Again, he was inspired by Highgrove House. The event has become more and more popular over the years.

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte Christmas 2022

What began as just a weekend event now attracts thousands of visitors. The Christmas festivities run from 19 November until 31 December, 2022.

The most amazing Christmas decorations

The castle has been decorated in style by interior designer Eric Naudin. He’s assisted by everyone at the Chateau, from the ladies who work in the gorgeous gift shop to the family themselves. Every year is a different theme. In 2018 vintage toys were borrowed from a specialist museum in Colmar, Alsace. In 2019 the theme is colour, every room a different shade, bright blues, soft whites and shades of pastel.

There are 150 Christmas trees, more than a mile of garlands and around 15,000 decorations and lights. The trees are hung with the most beautiful baubles, soft teddies and snow white owls. By the way, if you like them pop to the gift shop where they have some for sale plus fabulous souvenirs that you’ll want to bring out for Christmas for years to come. Tables are laid for a festive feast with trees and ornaments, sparkling crystal and colourful macarons and extraordinary automatons. In the kitchen there’s a sugarplum fairy vibe with huge gingerbread cakes, giant rabbit footmen, dolls and fairies.

In the carriage museum Christmas carols play. And, there are tableaux of yesteryear’s Christmases with train sets, lights and Santa seated in an ancient carriage.

Every year the salon has a different, breathtaking presentation. It could be a giant teddy in a full sized balloon basket and balloon, a Ferris wheel or monumental revolving manger scene (2019).

Christmas at the Chateau de Vaux-le-Vicomte

And as dusk falls, the magic continues in the garden where you can take a carriage ride and enjoy thousands of twinkling lights. Take a walk in the enchanted wood and admire the gorgeous landscape that has wowed visitors for 350 years. It was originally designed by Louis XIV’s favourite gardener André Le Nôtre.

It’s not Disney but it is magical, authentic and exquisitely enchanting. Vaux-le-Vicomte at Christmas is where you’ll find a bucket load of festive charm.

Details: www.vaux-le-vicomte.com including how to get there and shuttle bus times from the local station to and from the Chateau.

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Christmas markets Paris 2019, the dates, details and locations. Take in the sight of the twinkling city of light, warm up with a chocolat chaud or mulled wine. Wander the cobbled streets, elegant squares and legendary public gardens. The Christmas markets of Paris will definitely bring out the happy in you!

The Christmas lights will be switched on in Paris on 24 November 2019 at 18h until 9 January 2020. Thousands of lights and decorations in more than 125 squares and streets will twinkle, flash and glitter. The ‘Scintillance’ lights display by Blachère Illuminations will once again set the Avenue des Champs-Elysées shimmering this year. The dazzling display combines traditional lights and modern sparkle using Led technology. The lights will be on from 17h until 02h each day. More about the Christmas lights in Paris

Christmas markets Paris 2019

There are plenty of Christmas markets in the city. You’ll find roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, festive produce, artisan gifts and loads more to tempt you Here are just a few of the best:

La Defense – it’s the business district so not greatly touristic but the Christmas market is one of the biggest in the city. It has a great atmosphere and it’s popular with locals as they know they’ll find a really good range of gifts. La Defense Christmas market: 21 November – 29 December 2019.

Montmartre by Sacre-Coeur. Small but perfectly but very cute plus the views across the city are wonderful, the vibe is magical. If I could only go to one Christmas market in Paris, this would be it! When? Late November – 1 January 2020. There’s also a market at Place des Abbesses at the bottom of the hill. Late November 2018 – 1 January 2019.

Notre-Dame, next to the Cathedral in Place Viviani you’ll find the Christmas arts and crafts market. As you listen to the bells peal in this iconic location you’ll really feel like its Christmas. Pop across the square to the lovely flower market of Paris where you’l find shops brimming not just with beautiful flowers and plants but some really cute and quirky gifts.  When? 13 – 29 December 2018.

Christmas markets in parks and stations and legendary sites

Jardin des Tuileries: After closing the Christmas market of the Champs-Elysees, a new one opened in the Jardin des Tuileries in the shadow of the Louvre. 120 chalets, Ferris wheel, ice rink, puppet shows, a gourmet village and French craftsmen make this a lively and festive affair. Christmas market Tuileries 15 November 2919- 5 January 2020

Eiffel Tower: Chalets and activities including an ice rink that’s very popular. When? 20 December 2019 – 5 January 2020.

Alsatian Christmas market at Gare de l’Est: A 100% Alsatian Christmas market! Find a wide choice of local delicacies: pretzels, bredele, gingerbread, fresh pasta, foie gras, charcuterie in front of the station at Gare de I’Est. Enjoy free tastings with a different programme every day from gingerbread to sparkling wine and Munster cheese. The market here is all about the gourmet traditions of Alsatian Christmas! Kougelhopf, potato pancakes, wine, choucroute etc. Gare de l’Est Christmas market: 4 – 20 December 2019.

There are more Christmas markets in Paris than we’ve listed here, check at www.parisinfo.com for all the latest information and date confirmations.

Don’t forget to stop off for delicious hot chocolate to warm up or nip into a museum to chill out, there are some great free museums in Paris so you can save your Euros for spending on gifts!

More on Christmas in Paris

15 things to do in Paris on Christmas Day
Christmas shopping in Paris for gifts
Christmas shopping in Paris – sweets and foodie treats
The best Christmas video of Paris. Ever.
Christmas in Paris from your armchair

The post Christmas Markets in Paris 2019 appeared first on The Good Life France.

Christmas is when Paris really does live up to its name as the City of Light. Wandering along charming squares and frosty cobbled streets where the breath-taking ancient architecture of this historic city provides the perfect backdrop for the twinkling Christmas lights in December is magical.

The city can be very cold in winter so wrap up warm while you’re seeking out the best places to see the Christmas lights in Paris. And, wear comfortable shoes, because the best way to see and experience the Christmas season in the city is to just wander, making time to stop off for a hot chocolate en route!

So, where’s the best place to go to see the Christmas lights in Paris you ask? Some of the prettiest spots with great Christmas lights include lively pedestrian streets like Rue Montorgueil (above) and Rue Moffetard, the oldest street in Paris. Climb high for some great views over the city – favourites include the Eiffel Tower (don’t forget to book in advance), Tour Montparnasse or  the huge Ferris wheel on Place de la Concorde, known locally as La Grande Roue. At night the lights are at their very best. And, with more than 150 streets lit up, the whole city seems to twinkle. Note the lights will this year switch off earlier than usual at 11.45 as part of France’s energy saving programme.

Where to find the best Christmas lights in Paris

Avenue des Champs-Elysées

Every year, for Christmas and the New Year, the avenue des Champs-Elysées is decorated with more than 1 million lights and stunning decorations. Star bursts, sparkling garlands, rings of light and shimmering sparkles brings the 200 trees along the world’s most beautiful avenue to life. A festive landscape for a magical Christmas!

Christmas lights at the Champs-Elysées from 20 November 2019 to 2 January 2022. 

Avenue Montaigne (8th Arr)

This rather posh avenue, lined with boutiques and couture houses lights up in style. Head to the Seine quayside at the end of the road for a lovely view of the Eiffel Tower. 

Christmas lights at Avenue Montaigne from 19 November 2022 to 2 January 2023

Bercy Village

Bercy village is an entertainment district in what was formerly an area of mainly 19th century wine warehouses. There are shops, restaurants, cultural venues and families especially like the decorations here at Christmas. Artist Laurent Sanguinetti, who has worked with Hermès and designer Philippe Starck, has created an enchanted forest with 28 luminous sculptures among the trees lining the main street of Bercy Village. Expect  a dash of magic with imaginary creatures and a fairy tale castle. There’s free entertainment at the weekends, concerts, and though not well known to visitors, for Parisians, it’s a must-see. (Metro Couer Saint-Emilion, Line 14).

Christmas lights at Bercy Village from 17 November 2022 to 10 January 2023  Metro: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile

Place Vendôme

Place Vendôme, rue de la Paix, rue de Castiglione, rue Saint-Honoré and rue des Capucines are all outstanding places where you’ll see waterfalls of light, showers of stars and enormous chandeliers. The fabulous Christmas lights embellish the prestigious character of this very chic district. This is where you’ll find the legendary Ritz Hotel and high end shops decked out in Christmas style.

Christmas lights at Place Vendome from 22 November 2022 to 2 January 2023

Viaduc des Arts

The Viaduc des arts, close to the Gare de Lyon is devoted to arts and crafts industries. Some 50 or so artisans are established in studios and shops  in the arches and at Christmas, it’s very pretty. If you’re travelling from Gare de Lyon, it’s a few minutes walk and a great place to feel the Christmas atmosphere. If you have even more time, nip up to the Promenade Plantée above the viaduct, it’s the most unusual park in the city!

Christmas lights at the Viaduc des Arts throughout December 2022. Metro: Gare de Lyon, Bastille, Reuilly Diderot

Montmartre Christmas lights

With its villagey-vibe on a hill overlooking the city, cobbled streets, Sacré-Coeur and Place du Tertre where the artists congregate, the Christmas lights in Montmartre are super pretty and authentic. Not far from Gare du Nord, for those passing through Paris via the busy station with a couple of hours to spare, it’s an ideal place to experience a touch of Christmas magic in Paris.

Christmas lights at Montmartre throughout December 2022

More information on the Paris Tourism website

More on Christmas in Paris

Ultimate Guide to Christmas in France

10 things to do on Christmas Eve in Paris
15 Things to do on Christmas Day in Paris
Christmas in Paris video – the next best thing to being there…
Where to go Christmas shopping in Paris
20 gorgeous photos of France at Christmas that will make you want to go there straight away!

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