6 French Christmas markets to discover

As you have likely noticed, the holiday season is a prime time for vacation rentals. While property owners can take advantage of this to boost their rental income, travelers have the opportunity to discover beautiful French destinations in a magical setting. Check out our selection of the must-visit Christmas markets in France this year!

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Lyon

Following the famous Festival of Lights that takes place every year in early December, Lyon dazzles us with a magnificent Christmas market. With over 150 exhibitors on Place Carnot, the city immerses itself in a festive and friendly atmosphere starting November 23, and its chalets continue to delight visitors of all ages until December 24. As a true grand opening, the Lyon Christmas market is kicked off by Santa Claus himself, who arrives by carriage from Place Bellecour. On the program: decorations, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, gift ideas, and much more! So, don't wait any longer—come spend a magical Christmas in Lyon!

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Lille

Like many Christmas markets in France, the one in the "Capital of Flanders" opened its doors today on Place Rihour. Until December 29, the Lille Christmas village will enchant you with its illuminated aisles, unique atmosphere, and numerous exhibitors. With local, national, and international products, there is something for everyone! Many children's activities and concerts will also bring rhythm to this beautiful holiday season. Furthermore, this year is special for the Lille Christmas village as it marks the event's 30th anniversary!

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Paris

Unlike the previous destinations, the French capital hosts several Christmas markets each year. However, the one at the Tuileries Garden is undoubtedly one of our favorites. Want to stroll among the chalets while enjoying a superb view of the Eiffel Tower? Then this is the perfect place for your outings with family or friends! From November 15 to January 5, the garden actually hosts the former Champs-Elysées Christmas market. These are perfect dates for those who want to extend the magic and an ideal opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful parks in Paris! With a 5,380-square-foot ice rink, rides for children, and numerous exhibitors, it is likely one of the French Christmas markets offering the most activities.

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Toulouse

Want to spend Christmas in the southwest? Then the Toulouse Christmas market is for you! For its 20th edition, the event is sticking to tradition and taking place on the majestic Place du Capitole. Surrounded by the bricks that earned Toulouse its nickname, the "Pink City," you can enjoy the magic of Christmas starting today through December 26. Featuring over 100 exhibitors, the market is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility and the visually impaired, blending southwestern traditions with great national classics. Santa's chalet will welcome children every day!

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Marseille

Are you leaning more toward a seaside Christmas? Why not celebrate this family holiday in the picturesque setting of Marseille's Old Port? Featuring a Ferris wheel and multiple activities, this Christmas market is the ideal place if you are traveling with family. While children can hop into Santa's sleigh, older visitors can immerse themselves in Provençal tradition at the santon (nativity figurine) market. And, to make this holiday season more pleasant for visitors, Marseille's city center will be pedestrian-only on December 7, 14, and 21!

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Les Arcs

Now, head to the mountains for an even more magical Christmas! For an entire week, the Les Arcs resort celebrates the magic of Christmas through various workshops and activities spread across all the villages. Starting December 21, the village of Arc 1950 kicks off the festivities with its Santa village, located on the Place de l'Horloge. It's a place where everyone can share unforgettable moments together! On Monday, December 23, it's Arc 1600's turn to open its Christmas village, much to the delight of chocolate lovers! Then, on December 24, you can enjoy a traditional torchlight descent in Arc 1600 as well as fireworks in Arc 1800. A rich program that will perfect your ski vacation!