tours france xmas market

Tours Christmas Market Guide 2023 (Travel Tips & Events)

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 7th August 2023

Categories CHRISTMAS , France

Last Updated on 7th August 2023 by Antoine

Nestled in the heart of France’s Loire Valley, Tours is a medieval city characterised by its Gothic cathedral, timber-framed homes, and narrow cobbled lanes. Visitors who frequent the ancient settlement during the winter will soon discover the Tours Christmas Market , which takes place on an annual basis. Here’s how to visit the Marché de Noël de Tours .

Tours Christmas Market Dates 2023: 24th November to 26th December

Tours is a historic and medieval city in the heart of the Loire Valley, which is fondly referred to as the ‘ Garden of France ‘ on account of its lush green landscape. The city is also the gateway to the thousand-plus Châteaux.

One of the most iconic places to enjoy Christmas in Tours is in Place Jean Jaurès, where there is a beautiful (and spectacularly large) Christmas tree. In 2020, there was no Christmas tree in front of the Hôtel de Ville. The reason given was that ‘a suitable tree could not be found’ that met the ‘town hall’s criteria’.

One of the most fun activities to take place during the Tours Christmas Market is the ‘election’ of the most beautiful Christmas chalet. Other highlights of Christmas in Tours include a ferris wheel and ice skating.

Boulevard Heurteloup

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Prior to 2020, there was only one giant Christmas Market in Tours, which took place between the station and town hall. Instead, since 2021 the Christmas Markets of Tours has taken place in smaller forms in three iconic locations across the city.

Each area will be decked from head to toe with various sets of Christmas decorations and illuminations. As always, I personally recommend visiting the markets at night as this will allow you to enjoy the Christmas lights at their best.

The historic Heurteloup will host one of the smaller Christmas Market locations in Tours. The daily event will run seven days a week and sees around twenty stalls selling everything from Christmas Market Food to unique gifts including handmade jewellery and artisanal food products. Close by, there’s a traditional merry go round.

One of the more popular Christmas Market locations in Tour is on the Place de la Résistance. This location of the city sees a number of Christmas chalets. There is also a carousel for children in the shape of a Christmas tree.

2021 saw a brand new location for the Tours Christmas Markets on the Parvis of the grand Gothic cathedral itself. This market no longer exists, it used to feature ‘made in France’ artisans selling their wares such as jewellery and ceramics, which make for unique gifts and souvenirs.

Yet another iconic Tours location where you can enjoy a traditional Christmas Market with Bavarian style chalets and beautiful decorations is on Place Anatole France. This is also where a small ice skating rink can be located, as well as a large Ferris Wheel and a carrousel.

The Christmas Markets will be open from Friday the 24th November to Tuesday the 26th of December. They are themselves free to visit. With this being said, be sure to bring cash as not every vendor accepts card payments (and those that do often have a minimum spend).

Like most Christmas Markets in France, you’ll have to pay a deposit in order to get a cup for any hot drinks that you consume. Unlike in the German Christmas Markets, Christmas Market cups are plastic cups as opposed to ceramic mugs. You need only return your cup to recuperate your deposit at the end of your visit. Alternatively, you can keep your cup as a fun Christmas Market souvenir.

Thanks to its fairly large size and popularity, there are a number of different places to stay in Tours to suit almost any budget and taste. Here are some of the best places to stay in Tours based on web-reviews and location:

Budget: One of the most affordable and yet cosy places to stay in Tours is The People. This chic hostel offers private rooms as well as mixed-gender and female-only dorms. There’s a bar onsite with a terrace. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: Those in search of an affordable luxury option when it comes to staying in Tours can check out this cosy little hotel. Amenities include air conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a fairly central location. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury: For the ultimate luxury experience during your time in Tours, consider booking yourself a stay at this four-star hotel. Highlights include a pool and spa, as well as a fitness centre. Check prices and availability here.

In the summer, you can’t go wrong by pairing a cute midi dress with classic white tennis shoes for a laid-back smart casual look that’s just as chic for walking around a city’s cobbled lanes as it is for wandering coastal paths. I love this dress and have it in several colour ways. In terms of tennis shoes, this is my go-to shoe.

When it comes to winter in Europe, most places (with the exception of a few islands) can get pretty cold and so warm layers is a must. I find that cute ankle boots like these ones are the perfect mix of practical meets cute.

Shoulder seasons (spring and summer) in Europe tend to come with a mix of rainy and sunny days and so, again, layers are a must. Trench coats and sneakers are the best uniform to explore the continent in.

Finally, a cross-body bag like these ones is a must. I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility. As well as being convenient and compact, it’s one of the safest ways to transport your valuables, all the while looking chic. I also recommend bringing along a travel adapter  like this one  so you can charge all of your electronics during your stay!

Enjoyed how to visit the Tours Christmas Market in the Loire Valley? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Variety of christmas markets tours options, incredible destinations, years of travel experience, christmas markets group packages, christmas market travel options, christmas market tours 2024 & 2025 discount 50%.

Christmas Market tours and the world-famous Christmas Market River Cruises will once again become available in 2024 and 2025. Every year, eager travelers reserve space on Europe Christmas Market Tours to experience the yuletide season at its best. Now you can on any of our 2024 and 2025 Christmas Market Tours.

Europe Christmas Market Tours remain an incredibly affordable way to travel, mostly due to the off-peak nature of the season. Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises take you through popular Central European destinations like Austria, France, and Germany. Dating back to the 15th century, Christmas Markets in Europe have provided locals and visitors with festive scenes, including Christmas light shows, concerts, hot apple cider, mulled wine, and beautifully decorated trees that rival the giant spruce at Rockefeller Center! Central Europe hosts many traditional markets, with various ways to experience them, such as Christmas Market Tours and Christmas Market River Cruises.

The Difference Between Christmas Market Tours and Cruises

The main difference between a dedicated Christmas Market Tour and a Christmas Market River Cruise is that you only have to unpack once on a cruise. Historically, rivers were the highways of Europe, with major city centers situated right along the banks. For example, beautiful Prague has hugged the Vltava River for over ten centuries, with the river area now home to over 1 million residents. Multi-city bus tours that feature Prague also normally visit Vienna and Budapest. While the overland distance between these cities is around 200 miles, tours usually include stops in charming towns like Bratislava to break up the longer drives. River cruises allow you to wake up to new destinations each day while enjoying views of castles and sites along the passing river banks. Both tour and cruise options may also offer activities like biking along trails near the floating vessels.

What Makes Christmas Market Tours So Special?

• During the four Sundays preceding Christmas (Advent), Christkindlmarkts fill the streets of many cities and villages bringing Christmas to life.
• Getting to see and experience a Christmas Market in Europe by itself is most definitely a bucket list item.
• Having the chance to purchase unusual holiday ornaments not easily found in the states is also a treat.
• Experiencing warm Gluhwein while wandering through Central Europe Christmas Market during a cold winter's night is a highlight.
• Iceskating in Rockefeller Center is a wonderful experience; however, iceskating in the middle of a five hundred year old Christmas Market is entirely something else.
• Discovering hot chimney cakes, Spatzle, and Lebkuchen can transform your experience into something amazing!

But where should you begin when trying to figure out the best Christmas Markets in Europe?

The Best Christmas Markets In Europe

That's easy! The best Christmas Markets in Europe are all of the above, because they're all wonderful! It all depends on if you prefer taking a Christmas Market Tour or Christmas Market River Cruise.

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The Best Christmas Market Tours in France

Looking for the best tour through France's Christmas markets? We have carefully curated a selection of Christmas market tours in France to make sure that you have an unforgettable escape filled with adventure, cherished traditions, and heartwarming activities. Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season as you wander through charming marketplaces, alive with joyful celebrations, all while joining a tour that takes care of the planning and organizing for you.

It would be hard to visit all of the destinations hosting markets in France, as there are so many. Strasbourg is home to the Christkindelsmarik , the oldest Christmas Market in Europe, and it sprawls through many of the winding streets and alleyways of the city. Reims also has a terrific market worth visiting, as it is one of the largest in northern France. You'll find food, drinks, gifts, ice skating, and Santa's Grotto. Colmar is another town hosting five different markets which all blend together into one large festive atmosphere. Other popular towns with markets include Lille, Dijon, Sarlat, Annecy, Metz, Mulhouse, and others.

• Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) 5 Days, $1324.00
• Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 (18 destinations) 5 Days, $673.16
• Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET 4 Days, $1195.00

What are Christmas market tours like in France?

Here are the important factors:

• 9 trip options analyzed
• $273 average price per day (USD)
• 4 to 5 days in length
• 4.11 of 5 average rating
• 166 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of Christmas market tours in France, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.11 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 166 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 5 days, with tours ranging from 4 to 5 days long. For physical activity , the tours are marked as easy and relaxing, with a prevalent number on easy tours. With our thorough analysis of 9 Christmas market tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that France has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 9 Best Christmas Market Tours in France

Christmas on the romantic rhine, the enchantment of the lorelei rock (port-to-port cruise).

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for Christmas market tours.

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage, visiting France and Germany, that has garnered a 4 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 5 days, this jouney will have 160 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers of all ages. Expertly organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $265 per day.

• River Cruise

Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 (18 destinations)

This memorable trip, visiting Germany and France, is offered by A-ROSA which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $135 per day. Along the way, this journey encompasses 8 destinations, including Mainz, Rudesheim am Rhein, Germersheim, and Speyer. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Cologne. The maximum group size is 202 people, welcoming guests from 2 and up.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine - MONET

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 4 days, this trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 160 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers of all ages. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Rudesheim am Rhein and Boppard, among others. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Strasbourg. Brought to you by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $299 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - MONA LISA

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 5 unforgettable days, visiting France and Germany. It ensures an intimate group setting with 176 participants at most. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 5 destinations, featuring Braubach, Rudesheim am Rhein, and Worms. Strasbourg kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. CroisiEurope River Cruises , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers of all ages. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - BOHEME

This fantastic journey has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars, visiting France and Germany. Uncover the beauty of 4 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Strasbourg. Lasting 5 days, the maximum group size is 160 people, and it's good for travelers of all ages. Organized by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this is a great deal because it's only $265 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - SYMPHONIE

With a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey, visiting France and Germany, is the perfect choice. Traverse through 4 enchanting destinations, with Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein among the must-see stops along the route. Strasbourg will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 5 days, the journey accommodates 160 individuals, and is suitable for travelers of all ages. Offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , this remarkable journey is priced at just $300 per day. Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - DOUCE FRANCE

This exceptional trip offering by CroisiEurope River Cruises has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 5-day trip, visiting France and Germany, you can unwind while also making new memories. This trip visits 4 destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein along the way. Your adventure starts and ends in Strasbourg. With a group size of 160 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $300 per day.

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise) - GERARD SCHMITTER

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting France and Germany. Experience a trip that takes you to 4 remarkable destinations, including Braubach and Rudesheim am Rhein. Strasbourg will be the beginning and end of your trip. Spanning across 5 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 160 participants, and it's great for travelers of all ages. Brought to you by the renowned CroisiEurope River Cruises , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $300 per day - an unbeatable value.

Delightful Christmas Markets in the Neckar Valley

This 5-day trip, visiting France and Germany, is ideal for travelers of all ages. And priced at only $327 per day, it's a great value, too. Explore 6 incredible locations on this trip, including Eberbach, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Mannheim, and Heidelberg. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Strasbourg. It's offered by CroisiEurope River Cruises , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Sightseeing

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France , The Best Historical Tours in France , The Best 10-Day Tours in France , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France , The Best 2-Week Tours in France , The Best River Cruises in France , The Best Bicycle Tours in France , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in France , The Best Coach Bus Tours in France , The Best Adventure Tours to France , The Best Eco Tours in France , The Best Sightseeing Tours in France , The Best Cultural Tours in France , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France , The Best Music Tours in France , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France , The Best Walking Tours in France , The Best Tours Under $1000 in France , The Best Luxury Tours to France , The Best Budget Tours to France , The Best Tours for Seniors to France , The Best Contiki Tours to France , or The Best G Adventures Tours to France for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lyon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bordeaux , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Arles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Avignon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chamonix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Blois , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Marseille , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dijon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tours , The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris , The Best 10-Day Tours from Arles , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nice , The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris , The Best 2-Week Tours from Arles , The Best 2-Week Tours from Chamonix , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Nice for more package tour options.

How much do Christmas Market Tours in France cost?

After analyzing 9 Christmas market tours in France, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $273 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for Christmas market tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in France .

And for more information on France, see France Travel Costs and France Hotel Costs .

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Experience Europe's Christmas Markets

Winter is a magical time of year to visit Europe. Christmas markets are a beloved part of holiday traditions in Europe. Picture market stalls filling medieval town squares in front of centuries-old churches and palaces. Local artisans sold their handcrafted goods—toys, ornaments, decorations, and sweets—and each city established unique traditions that captured the spirit of their people. Experience an authentic insider's view of centuries-old holiday markets and the seasonal festivities that surround Christmas. Our collection of European Christmas Market vacations takes you to the heart of the action, where alpine villages dazzle with twinkle lights, legendary cities celebrate in style, and Europe's time-honored traditions come to life. What are you waiting for? Reserve your European Christmas Markets vacation package today.

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Vienna at Christmas Time

The Austrian capital was one of the pioneers of the Christmas market tradition, holding its first event in 1298. Visitors today can enjoy any number of markets, including the Viennese Christmas Market—in front of city hall—and the market at Baroque Schönbrunn Palace, as well as shopping stalls in the historic Spittelberg District.

Christmas Markets in Zurich

With 150 stalls and operated completely indoors, a 50 foot Christmas tree adorned with Swarovski crystals welcomes visitors to Zurich as they arrive at the Main Train Station. With fruit cake, vendors from all over the world, and all kinds of other traditional Christmas cuisine, the air is filled with the scents and sounds of the holidays. Exhibitors compete for the honor of being named the “Most Beautiful Stall” at the market, ensuring that the entire venue is beautifully adorned. The Zurich market is the largest indoor market in Europe, making it the perfect escape for those blustery cold evenings.

Christmas in Munich

Stalls surround an impressive 85 foot Christmas tree in the German Capital. Here you’ll find children dressed as angels and learning to be the next generation of crafters inside the “Heavenly Workshop” in town hall. Musicians fill the air with festive music every Friday before Christmas as guests hop on the Christmas tram that parades them through the old city as they eat gingerbread cookies and sip hot spiced wine.

Prague for the Holidays

The abundant Gothic architecture provides a perfect backdrop to the Christmas scene you’ll find in Prague. The two most famous Christmas markets, held at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, are walking distance from each other. Wander among the traditional wooden huts to admire handmade wooden toys and jewelry, Czech marionettes, nativity scenes, and even a petting zoo. Prague also offers numerous culinary delights, including   klobása   (sausage), roasted ham,   Trdelník   (a rolled pastry),   Vosí Hnízda   (beehive cookies), and hot mulled wine

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8 Best Christmas Market Towns In France

• Activities and Interests
• Christmas Markets
• Destinations
• Food and Drink
• Holiday Travel
• Seasonal Travel

Christmas markets in Europe have become a popular tourist attraction for visitors from the U.S. in recent years. The markets represent a time-honored tradition that dates back hundreds of years. Multi-day cruises and bus tours of Christmas markets are much in demand. The markets pride themselves on locally produced goods and merchandise, so visitors can take home an authentic souvenir to remember.

Here’s a list of the top villages and cities for Christmas markets in France.

1. Strasbourg

Strasbourg has the oldest Christmas market in France, which started in 1570. Today, the Strasbourg market is the largest in France with some 300 stalls and a total of 11 markets. Specialty markets include a children’s Christmas village with toy stalls, handicrafts, and a merry-go-round, a book market, a section with wines, and local craftspeople.

The OFF Market in Strasbourg creates an alternative market experience by offering antique holiday merchandise, vintage furniture, clothing, toys, and lights and decorations.

If you are a foodie, the Alsatian producers market features stalls with 100 percent made-in-Alsace food products including jams and jellies, gingerbread, hot wine with spices, apple cider, and honey.

The Strasbourg Cathedral , the tallest structure in Strasbourg, is a UNESCO-listed site, and its construction dates back to 1015 A.D. It’s considered one of the best examples of Gothic church architecture in France. Make sure you get to the cathedral no later than 12:15 p.m. to view the astronomical clock because at 12:30 p.m. there’s a performance of animated figures representing the different ages of man with figures of a child, teenager, adult, and old man. Markets surround the four sides of the cathedral.

On Place Kleber stands the soaring 90-foot-tall tree, freshly cut from the nearby forest in the Vosges mountain range, and people crowd around to view the magical lights and decorations adorning the tree. There’s also an ice skating rink in the square.

The old part of Colmar is one of the most enchanting villages in France, located in eastern France in the Alsace region, near the German border. The Christmas market in Colmar is like an enchanted fairy tale and is always on the top of the list of the best Christmas markets in France.

There are actually six separate markets in Colmar, which are all within walking distance from the main town square. Markets include a food market with regional and local foods and a children’s toy market.

Colmar is a canal city and on Wednesday and Saturday during the holiday season, children’s choirs sing Christmas carols on illuminated boats floating on the canals.

Place Rapp has an ice skating rink, so rent a pair of ice skates and show off your best figure eights.

The Alsace region is known for its white wines and sweet dessert wines. Many wine cellars have Christmas decorations and are open to the public for tastings.

We suggest spending two to three days in Colmar because there is a bevy of other activities connected to the markets.

Three-day/two-night packages are available at very reasonable prices, starting at 190 euros per person, which includes two nights in a hotel with free breakfast, a Colmar City Pass that includes a free 90-minute guided walking tour of the city (only in French), a three-course dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant excluding drinks, and a hot mulled wine from the Christmas market.

Pro Tip: Colmar is only 35 minutes by train from Strasbourg, so you can even do a day trip.

How about sipping some of the best Champagne in France on a giant Ferris wheel? Reims is the gateway city of the Champagne region and a great place to visit for their holiday market, the third largest in France.

The gothic cathedral from the 13th century in the center square of the city (which made our list of 7 Incredibly Beautiful Churches In France Besides Notre Dame ) is where the Reims Christmas Market is located, along with many other festivities. Over 100 stalls line the perimeter of the cathedral offering up handmade Christmas decorations and savory and sweet treats.

An artisan market is set up in a historic, former mansion, the Palace of Tau, with handicrafts, glassmakers, candlemakers, ceramicists, and embroiderers.

Kids will have a ball at the Children’s Kingdom by enjoying ice skating, meeting Santa Claus in person, playing with woodblocks, and participating in various craft-making activities.

A red train tram decked out in holiday decorations travels around the city.

4. Montbeliard

Close to the Swiss and German borders in eastern France, Montbeliard takes on the traditions of Wurttemberg in Germany with its elaborate Lumières de Noël Christmas market and fair as 170 booths take over the town square. The city chooses mostly local craftsmen and manufacturers selling ceramics, paintings and drawings, glassworks, clothing, wool hats, gloves, and scarves. Every year the Montbeliard market chooses a guest host country or city and honors their culture. In past years Corsica, Louisiana, Brittany, Portugal, and Scotland have been honorary places.

During Advent, Montbeliard puts on a daily knockout light show, positioning over 100,000 lights all over the village.

Not only is there the myth of Santa Claus in Montbeliard; there’s also Aunt Airie, a local fairy who walks around the village with a donkey dispensing gifts to children who are well-behaved.

If the cold temperatures at the markets in the northern part of France are not for you, then Avignon , in Provence, puts on a good show with its Christmas market and seasonal activities.

Stalls are gathered on the Place de l’Horloge, where the historic clock stands. The streets are aglow with holiday lights. And don’t miss the Chemin des Creches, a walkway lined with animated and colorful nativity scenes with santons , the hand-carved, hand-colored figures inside the nativity.

The town also sponsors folk dancing in native costumes, games for the children, and a Christmas parade.

6. Mulhouse

Also located in the Alsace region, Mulhouse has one of the most festive and grandest Christmas markets in France. Mulhouse is known for its textile industry, and every year an original holiday fabric is designed by a textile designer. The fabric is draped over the buildings, the town square, and the city hall.

Stalls around the Place de la Reunion and the Temple Saint-Etienne have workshops where children and adults can paint or draw on fabric. A section of the market has more than 30 chalets dedicated exclusively to artisans, seamstresses, and decorators selling jewelry, home accessories, hats, clothing, and gifts that are made in Mulhouse.

Bredalas , little tasty treats made with sugar, walnuts, and butter, are specially baked for Christmas time and sold at food stands in the market and local bakeries.

A giant Ferris wheel towering over the city and ice skating are just two of the fun holiday activities in Mulhouse.

On the Flemish border of Belgium, Christmas festivities have a slightly different twist. Ninety mini-chalets are clustered around Place Rihour, selling not only locally-made products but also crafts and items imported from Poland, Russia, Germany, and Canada.

In the old quarter of the city, Rue de la Grande Chaussee, Rue de la Monnaie, and Rue Esquermoise are the best streets for holiday and boutique shopping.

Meert is the oldest confectionery shop in Lille, with chocolates, caramels, flavored marshmallows, hard candies, and their famous dried waffles filled with vanilla cream, and their divine tea salon serves holiday-themed pastries and thick, rich hot chocolate.

On the Saturday before Christmas, the big event is when Santa Claus takes a giant fall off the belfry from the City Hall.

The City of Light has a neighborhood of 15 to 20 Christmas markets plus a number of pop-up markets.

The Hotel de Ville, the main city hall of Paris, has one of the more festive markets, along with a carousel and 40 stands.

Tuileries Garden combines a market and an amusement park. A mini ice skating rink, a Champagne bar, mulled wine, and a giant illuminated Santa and his reindeer are just a few of the delights.

Five hundred feet above Paris in the village of Montmartre is a small Christmas holiday market on the Place des Abbesses, the main square.

• Most markets are open starting the third week in November and close either the day after Christmas or on December 30. We advise going in November or the beginning of December to avoid the crowds.
• Try to visit the markets during the week because the weekends tend to be more crowded because of locals doing their holiday shopping.
• Bundle up and wear layers, plus hats, gloves, and scarves, especially if you are visiting the markets in Northern or Eastern France, or, better yet, wait till you arrive to buy them at the market.
• Resist bargaining at the stalls unless you are buying two items or more, and if you do choose to bargain, don’t ask for a reduction of more than 20 percent.
• Many of these destinations are near Paris and can be easily reached by train, including Reims (45 minutes each way) and Lille (one hour each way), and can be visited during day trips .

Related Reading:

• 9 Best Things To Do In Paris During Christmas
• 10 Gorgeous Places In Paris That Look Like A Hallmark Christmas Movie
• 7 Small French Towns That Could Star In A Hallmark Movie

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

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France Christmas Markets Tours 2024/2025

9 great christmas market tours in France. Searching for a christmas market trip in France? Below you will find 9 curated christmas market tours taking place in France with 11 reviews. Our christmas market tours are supplied by 3 hand-picked tour operators in France. With trip prices ranging from 579 USD to 1,434 USD and trip durations varying from 3 days and to 7 days, there is plenty to choose from.

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9 Christmas markets tours with 11 Reviews

• Starts Strasbourg, France
• Ends Strasbourg, France

Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise)

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Cruise Tour
• Activities Cruise & Christmas markets Cruise , Christmas markets , Explorer , Honeymoon & Romantic 'data-more-tripid='17596'>+3 more
• Accommodation Ship Cabin
• Transport Cruise Ship
• Age Range 18-79 yrs
• Operated in English
• Dec 23 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Paris, France
• Ends London, England

Europe Christmas Taster

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Christmas markets
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach, Boat & Train
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,570
• Special Deal (44%): - US$ 1,136
• Total Price from: US$ 1,434
• Dec 22 10+ seats left

Christmas markets in Alsace (port-to-port)

• Activities Christmas markets & Cruise
• Transport Cruise Ship & Coach
• Age Range 35-79 yrs
• Nov 29 Only 1 seat left
• Nov 30 Only 1 seat left

Christmas on the romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise)

• Activities Cruise & Christmas markets
• Dec 23 Only 2 seats left

• Starts Bordeaux, France
• Ends Bordeaux, France

Christmas in the Bordeaux region (port-to-port cruise)

• Ends Rhineland-Palatinate & Saarland, Germany
• Dec 23 Only 7 seats left

• Ends Paris, France

Christmas in the Seine Valley (port-to-port cruise)

• Dec 23 Only 3 seats left

Christmas on the romantic Rhine, the enchantment of the Lorelei Rock (port-to-port cruise)

• Dec 22 Only 7 seats left

• Starts Brittany, France
• Ends Brittany, France

Christmas on the Loire (port-to-port cruise)

• Dec 22 Only 1 seat left

France Christmas markets Reviews

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Most beautiful Christmas Markets in France

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Best Christmas Markets in France in 2023

Christmas time is coming to town! Discover the best Christmas markets in France in 2023 . Enjoy their Christmas decorations, their beautiful Christmas trees, the best place to find original Christmas gifts for the whole family in one of the best Christmas destinations in France . 

We have selected the best Christmas Markets in France for you. Enjoy a perfect Christmas holiday at the best price by booking your accommodation , tours and activities .

Select the " free cancellation " option and  pre-book your accommodation  at the best price. 

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Ski Resorts in France , Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France , Best Beaches in France , Most Amazing Castles in France , Best Places to Visit in France as well as the Best Things to do in France . 

  Confirmed dates

From 24th November to 30th December 2023 

Get into the spirit of the festive season and enjoy the warmest of welcomes as you visit the Christmas markets on Metz ’s six main squares.

See the ice sculptures at the Frozen Fairyland, then warm up cold hands around a hot spicy drink or mulled wine.

Let the illuminations chase away the dark winter days, and enjoy traditional treats like the merry-go-round, a walk through the magic forest or take the chance to stock up on gastronomic Christmas essentials at the city market hall. Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From 24 th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Metz Airport or Strasbourg Airport (1h30).

  Where to stay:   " La Citadelle Metz MGallery " for guests who enjoy luxurious accommodation.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Metz.

2. Montbeliard

From 25th November to 24th December 2023

Located in Franche-Comté (Eastern France), the town of Montbéliard – well known for its hospitality- turns into a pure enchantment few weeks before Christmas.

During the time of Advent, Montbéliard revives the tradition of Württemberg and organizes a Christmas market like no other with 160 lovely stalls full of authentic and high quality items. Taking a stroll down the illuminated streets, the visitors may taste the delicious gastronomic products from Montbéliard and France, marvel at the variety of art and crafts, dance to the music and the sound of choral songs.

During your stay discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From  25th  November to 24th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Montbéliard or Basel/Mulhouse (1h by car, 2h by public transport).

  Where to stay:   " Ibis Styles Montbéliard ". Perfect for a 2-night stay!

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Montbeliard.

3. Strasbourg

From 26th November to 26th December 2023

It was in Strasbourg in 1570 that the very first edition of the oldest Christmas market in Europe took place, then called the "Christkindelsmärik" (market of the Infant Jesus).

Since this time, Strasbourg has continued the tradition of a traditional, authentic, warm and generous Alsatian Christmas and these are all the reasons why " Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas " continues to enjoy repeated success.

  Opening dates:  From  26 th November to 26th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Strasbourg or Basel (1h15 by car/2h by train).

  Where to stay:   " Adagio Strasbourg Place Kleber ". Set in the heart of Strasbourg. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Strasbourg.

 From 23rd November to 29th December 2023

The magic of Christmas in Colmar , first of all there’s the ambiance of the Old Town, illuminated and decorated like a fairy tale: a historic setting made magical by the Christmas illuminations which, in this festive period, blend harmoniously with the wonderful lighting designed to enhance the town’s heritage, and lay a soothing aura of light over the centre of Colmar.

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From  23rd  November to 29th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Basel/Mulhouse Airport (40 min by car 1h by public transport) or Strasbourg (1h).

  Where to stay:   " Odalys City Colmar La Rose d'Argent " offers a fitness room and swimming pool.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Colmar.

From 24th November to 31st December 2023 

Visitors young and old have been coming to the Amiens Christmas Market since 1997. With it's 130 chalets that stretch for over 2 km, it has a great choice of gift ideas. From 23rd November to 31st December, craftsmen from France and all over the world will offer a variety of handmade gifts, Christmas décorations and delicious delicacies. 

For this 21st edition, flowers arranging on display are made by Andrée Joinville.  Every  Christmas mecanics decorations in shops are handmad with naturals, vegetables matters  and flowers. All of them are created in the spirit of Christmas.

  Opening dates:  From  24th  November to 31th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Beauvais Airport or Paris Charles de Gaulle (1h15).

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Le Prieuré et La Résidence ". Located at the foot of Amiens Cathedral.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Amiens

From 24th November to 24th December 2023

Share the spirit of Christmas with your friends or your family and enjoy the magic of Christmas in Reims for a weekend. Spend an unforgettable moment exploring the Christmas market and the streets of Reims: discover 145 chalets gathered on the Parvis of the Cathedrale. Let the magic of Christmas amaze you through illuminations, divine smells of typical meals and beverages, creators, events and more.

  Opening dates:  From  24th November to 24 th December 2023.

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Paris Vatry Airport (50 min) or Paris Charles de Gaulle (1h30).

  Where to stay:   " La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa ". Facing Reims Cathedral. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Reims.

From 22th November to 31st December 2023

In the heart of winter,  Lille  sparkles and glows with joie de vivre! With the wave of a magic wand, the city takes on a festive atmosphere and welcomes you to a  winter wonderland !

On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets teem with gift ideas, nativity figurines,  Christmas decorations  and festive food. You can find regional specialities here, and you can also find arts and crafts from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as products from Native America. 

During your stay d iscover the  Best Ski Resorts in France ,  Most Beautiful Secret Destinations in France ,  Best Beaches in France ,  Most Amazing Castles in France ,  Best Places to Visit in France  as well as the  Best Things to do in France . 

  Opening dates:  From 22th November to 31st December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Lille, Charleroi (1h15) or Brussels/Zaventem (1h30 by public transport).

  Where to stay:   " Moxy Lille City ". Situated in the real heart of Lille.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Lille.

8. Mulhouse

From 24th November to 23rd December 2023

With exceptional decorations made of a unique fabric in Alsace, festive lighting and many animations, Mulhouse is definitely THE place to live the Christmas magic.

The distinctiveness of the  Christmas market of Mulhouse  comes from its link to its rich industrial textile history. For this 27th edition, the star will be of course this particular fabric.

Connecting authenticity and tradition, this fabric is however constantly renewed with originality and each year, a new and exclusive Christmas fabric dresses the whole city for that time of the year.

  Opening dates:  From 24 th November to 23rd December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Basel/Mulhouse Airport.

  Where to stay:   " La Maison Hôtel Mulhouse Centre " located in the city centre of Mulhouse. 

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Mulhouse.

From 20th November to 26th December 2023

Traditional and popular Christmas markets are a major shopping event and are held from November onwards.

Originating in Germany and the Alsace, Christmas markets have spread throughout Europe since the 1990s. Little by little, they have become an essential festive event during the  Christmas season in Paris . They are held all over the capital: in Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés , Place de la Nation on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées and in Place du Trocadéro…,  and are a great success with passers-by.

  Opening dates:  From 20 th November to 26th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Paris.

  Where to stay:   " Hotel Dress Code & Spa ". Situated a 3-winute walk from Opéra Garnier.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Paris.

From 25 th November  to  30th December 2023

The Christmas market in Arras is laid out in the magnificent setting of the Grand’Place, a Flemish Baroque architectural ensemble unrivalled in Europe. A remarkable backdrop with a forest of Christmas trees, where 140 artisans and exhibitors await you in an authentic and festive atmosphere in the heart of the town.

An enchanting interlude to prepare for the celebrations ahead and to delight your loved ones with plenty of gift ideas. Sample roasted chestnuts or spice bread before wandering along the wide lanes edged with market stalls, where there are crafts, jewellery, wooden toys and decorations to be discovered, and much more besides.

  Opening dates:  From 2 5 th November to 30th December 2023 (Confirmed).

  How to get there:  Book your flights  to Lille (20 min) or Brussels Charleroi Airport (1h).

  Where to stay:   " La Cour des Grands " Enjoy its restaurant, bar and shared lounge.

Select the " free cancellation " option and  book your accommodation  at the best price in Arras.

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15 Fabulous French Christmas Markets In France (The Real France)

Nothing captures the magic of the end of year festivities better than a magical European Christmas market. Here are 15 standout French Christmas markets in France, including the biggest, oldest and off the beaten track markets that rival the bigger cities.

Here are 15 standout French Christmas markets in France , including the biggest, oldest and off-the-beaten-track Christmas markets in France that rival the bigger cities. I wanted my list of French Christmas markets in France to be a little different than just the best, biggest or most beautiful ones across France; although a few of those are certainly on this list.

I put together a list that represents the wide variety of Christmas markets you can find across France.

From the traditional Alsacian markets in the east, which are closer to German Christmas markets, to Provencal markets and French Riviera ( Côte d’Azur ) markets on the Mediterranean coastline. And let’s not forget about the lesser-known Christmas markets that don’t make it to anyone’s top 10 lists and tourists rarely visit but locals flock to. 

@culturezvous 🎄🎅🏻 Noël dans le Grand Est 😍 • #xmas2021 #noel #christmas #strasbourg #mulhouse #selestat #france #voyage #travel ♬ Let it Snow Let it Snow – Christmas Songs

You might be interested in discovering what types of food you can eat at a French Christmas market in France.

French Christmas Markets In France

Something magical happens across Northern Europe,  especially Germany, from late November to early January, during advent.

Advent is the four Sundays before Christmas day (or sometimes from the 1st of December to Christmas Day!

Rows of rustic wooden chalets (stalls) decked out in colourful decorations and twinkly lights line up side by side on public squares. Each chalet is brimming with local produce, handmade figurines, wooden toys and other gifts and goodies ready to fill your shopping bags.

The aroma of roasted chestnuts, sweet confectionaries, mouth-watering bratwurst and other savoury foods waft through the air as you wander through the bustling rows of illuminated chalets. 

The sound of children laughing and festive music fills the night air…

You’re at a Christmas market in France “ Marché de noël or somewhere in Europe, and you can’t help but feel excited and giddy unless you’re the Grinch.

Jump to section ↓

The First Christmas markets were called December markets.

Depending on who you talk to, some believe that the precursor to Christmas markets is a “December Market,” specifically the one in Vienna ( Vienna’s Dezembermarkt), which dates back to around 1296.

December markets were special winter markets for the townspeople to stock up on food and supplies to get them through the winter, often open for only a few days.

The first Christmas market probably originated in Munich, Germany, around 1310. From there, Christmas Markets started popping up on cobblestoned town squares across Europe, including France, which boasts the second-most number of Christmas markets in all of Europe.

Fantastic Francophile & French Gifts For Kids And Teens Who Love France: Gift Guide

15 Fabulous French Gifts For Francophiles Obsessed With France

1) Strasbourg Christmas Market: (The first and oldest one in France)

Marché de Noël de Strasbourg, Bas-Rhin

No Christmas market list would be complete without including the one in Strasbourg, where France’s first Christmas market started it all.

Located in the Alsace region of north-eastern France on the Rhine River, is Strasbourg which borders Germany and Switzerland.

For centuries, control over this historical region has alternated between Germany and France. The area reflects a mix of those cultures, including the traditional Christmas market, also known as Christkindelsmärik (Alsatian dialect “Market of the Christ Child”).

In addition to being over 450 years old, the oldest in France, it’s also one of the biggest in Europe. In 1992, the deputy mayor dubbed Strasbourg city “The Christmas capital,” and the name has stuck.  There are 11 Christmas markets in different squares throughout the city and some 300 stalls. There are over 500 scheduled events, ice skating, lights, games, parades, and so much more. If you ever plan on visiting this market, make sure to book your hotels or Airbnb well in advance. It receives over 2 million visitors, making it one of the most visited and most well known in France.

https://noel.strasbourg.eu

If you’re planning a trip to Europe or France or a Christmas market break, consider getting a Eurail pass. A pass for non-European train travellers. The global pass allows you to travel through multiple countries , while a one country pass such as the Eurail France Pass allows you to travel by train throughout France for a set amount of time at a discount. 

2) Metz Market: (2nd Oldest and biggest)

Marché de Noël Metz

If the Strasbourg Christmas market is the BIGGEST and OLDEST French Christmas market in France, then the Metz Christmas market would be the second. Located approximately one and a half hours northeast of Strasbourg, it’s an easy day trip.

Like Strasbourg, it attracts roughly 2 million visitors each year, making it another famous French Christmas market break.

3) Reims Christmas Market: (Day trip from Paris)

Marché de Noël de Reims

If you’re looking for a short day trip from Paris during December, the Reims Christmas market is less than one hour by TGV from the city of lights. Over 140 stalls sell local products, food and gifts. The city also does a spectacular light show on the Cathedral. It’s France’s third most visited market, attracting roughly 1.8 million visitors each year.

www.reims-tourisme.com

4) Colmar Christmas Market: (Birthplace of Statue of Liberty creator)

Marché de Noël de Colmar

Not far from France’s oldest French Christmas market in Strasbourg is Colmar, the birthplace of Bartholdi (the created the Statue of Liberty) . Roughly 80 chalets await you on cobblestone streets among half-timbered houses.  You can visit its six different themed Christmas markets, which are more like mini-villages, including one dedicated to food and another for children.

Each year roughly 1.5 to 1.8 million people visit this Christmas market, mainly from France and other European cities.

Colmar Christmas Market

5) Kaysersberg Christmas Market: (Is this the most authentic?)

Marché de Noël de Kaysersberg

12 km from the Colmar train station is another medieval town that turns into a veritable Christmas Village. The streets are decked out with festive lights, and touches of authentic Alsatian Christmas traditions are everywhere. Christmas market connoisseurs and the city itself claim it’s T HE MOST AUTHENTIC  Christmas market in France.

There are charming wooden stalls and city-approved artisans from all walks of life, floral art, pottery, blown glass, wooden toys, fabric, food, Christmas decorations and, of course, local Alsatian specialties. Make sure to try Bredele, biscuits or small cakes traditionally baked in Alsace and Moselle, especially during the Christmas period.

Kaysersberg Christmas Market

6) Riquewihr Market: (The medieval fairytale city)

Marché de Noël de Riquewihr

Officially one of France’s most beautiful villages, Riquewihr’s ( pronounced Reek-weer in French, or Rike-veeah in German/Alsatian ) has a fairy tale atmosphere all year round that has remained virtually unchanged since the 1600s. It’s no wonder Disney used it as one of the inspirations for Belle’s hometown from  Beauty and the Beast.  All this to say, it’s the ideal location for a fairy tale winter wonderland Christmas market.

Ribeauville-riquewihr Christmas market

7) Tiffauges Christmas market: (In a medieval Castle)

Marché de Noël au château de Tiffauges en Vendée

The Christmas market in Tiffauges might be small compared to some of the others. Still, this French Christmas market is set inside the Château de Tiffauges, a medieval castle situated in the Vendee department. The castle is also known as Bluebeard’s castle (chateau de Barbe-Bleue), named after its most famous resident and notorious murderer. More than 60 exhibitors and artisans await you within the castle walls.

Tiffauges Castle Christmas Market

8) Licques Market: (And the Turkey parade)

Marché de Noël au château de Licques

Like other French Christmas markets across France, artisans sell their wares in adorable chalets at the Christmas market in Licques. However, what sets the Licques Christmas market apart from the others is the turkey Festival (Fête de la dinde), where turkeys, capons and pintade (guinea fowls) are in the spotlight for a few days during the Christmas market. Highlights include a parade of turkeys in the streets, animated meals, accordion music, mechanical turkeys and the traditional Sunday morning procession of turkeys.

9) Lyon Christmas Market: (Lights, lights, lights)

Marché de Noël de Lyon

There are two magical Christmas markets in Lyon. The one at Carnot Place hosts more than 140 chalets, some of which are run by artisans worldwide: Canadians, Russia, Poland etc. With roughly 30 chalets, the second one is a covered Christmas market at Place de la Croix-Rousse.  Something not to miss is the festival of lights in Lyon (a Fête des Lumiere’s). For four nights in December, a variety of artists light up buildings, streets, squares and parks to music all over the city. There are usually over 40 light installations. The atmosphere is electric and crowded.

Lyon Christmas Market

10) Lille Christmas Market: (Are you still in France?)

Marché de Noël de Lille

In the north of France, one hour from Paris, 35 minutes from Belgium and 2 hours from London is Lille. With strong Flemish influences and more beer drinkers than wine drinkers, some say it’s more like visiting Belgium than France. The main square is transformed into a winter wonderland where some 100 wooden chalets attract 900K visitors every year.

Lille Christmas Market

11) Montbéliard Christmas Market: (Famous for it’s Christmas lights)

Marché de Noël de Montbéliard

Montbéliard, a picturesque city in France’s eastern Franche-Comté region near Alsace’s border, attracts more than 500K visitors each year to its Christmas market. They come not only to eat local treats or buy gifts made by the carefully selected craftsmen who occupy the 160 chalets but to see “les Lumières de Noël” which means Christmas lights. As the name implies, the market is famous for its “Christmas lights,” illuminating every street corner.

Montbéliard Christmas Market

12) Nice Christmas Market: (The French Riviera)

Marché de Noël au château de Nice

Photo/ Nice Christmas market www.AnnieAndre.com

Nice France, considered one of the main cities of the French Riviera, usually holds its Christmas market in Place Massena, a large open square. Besides the numerous chalets selling gifts and food, there is a large Ferris wheel, an ice rink and various games for the children. Socca is a popular dish served in the area and at many French Christmas markets in the south. Socca is best described as a thick unleavened chickpea-type crepe served with salt and pepper.

12) La Garde Christmas Market: (Your average everyday market)

Marché de Noël au château de La Garde

You probably won’t see anyone mention the Christmas market in La Garde (de Toulon) in the Provence Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of south-eastern France. But I wanted to mention it because it holds a special place in my heart. It’s not a famous or extravagant French Christmas market like the one in Strasbourg. It won’t make the list of most beautiful French markets either. It’s representative of the everyday Christmas market that makes up most French Christmas markets across France. Still charming, still magical. It attracts mainly locals from the surrounding cities and towns. Not tourists from outside France come here.

La Garde is also where our family lived for four years and where we first experienced the magic of a small-town Christmas market.

La Garde website

14) Montpellier Christmas Market: (Simple but charming)

Marché de Noël au château de Montpellier

The Montpellier Christmas market in France’s southern region is called “Les Hivernales,” which means “The Winter.” Like the Christmas market in La Garde, which is also called “Les Hivernales,” it also holds a special place in my heart. I’ve lived in Montpellier since 2016, so we’ve experienced this market for a few years now.

It’s not the most beautiful or the most stunning market, but it does have its charm. The market is spread across place de la Comedie and Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, the epicentre of Montpellier. There are roughly 170 different chalets along the treelined esplanade pedestrian area with two large fountains. In addition to shopping, there’s ice skating, a Ferris wheel (new in 2019, a carousel and a Christmas tree ride.  Try some Aligot: a local dish made from cheese blended into mashed potatoes garlic, often served with sausage. “Miam,” That’s French for YUM.

Montpellier Christmas Market

15+) Paris Christmas Markets: (Too many to choose from)

Marché Noel de la Défense

I debated whether to include any Paris Christmas markets because so many people write about them. I won’t list them all here because there are dozens of Christmas markets in Paris. The largest being the Défense Christmas market with over 350 wooden chalets. The one nearest the Eiffel tower is at the Trocadero. It’s Paris; you’ll love them.

Paris de La Défense Christmas Market

French Christmas markets in France: You can’t go wrong

This is just a small sampling of all the Christmas markets that exist in France. No matter where you find yourself during December in France, a French Christmas market is not far and worth a visit, big or small.

This list is growing. I’ll add more as I visit more markets.

Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a 'petite commission' at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. It helps me buy more wine and cheese. Please read my disclosure for more info.

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Annie André

About the author

I'm Annie André, a bilingual North American with Thai and French Canadian roots. I've lived in France since 2011. When I'm not eating cheese, drinking wine or hanging out with my husband and children, I write articles on my personal blog annieandre.com for intellectually curious people interested in all things France: Life in France, travel to France, French culture, French language, travel and more.

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What travelers say about their Christmas Market tours

Tips for planning a trip to europe’s christmas markets.

There are so many Christmas markets all around the world! We offer tours to Christmas markets in Amsterdam, Brussels, Vienna, Budapest, Prague, and Heidelberg, to name a few.

Here are some of the top markets on our European Christmas Market tours:

• Maastricht, the Netherlands.  Maastricht, in the  Netherlands , is a charming medieval city with cobblestone streets and fairy tale views. The small huts are filled with holiday gifts, mulled wine, local cheeses, and more.
• Trier, Germany.  Christmas markets originated in  Germany , making this one even more magical. From local artwork to handmade ornaments, you can find the most unique gifts here—and also some of the best gingerbread cookies around.
• Brussels, Belgium.  This market, like the city itself, is very large. In addition to the vendors selling food and other goods, there’s a large ferris wheel, ice skating rink, carousel, games, and beer tents.
• Innsbruck, Austria.  If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through a  Christmas market in the Alps  with a cup of hot mulled wine, this one’s for you.

There are also Christmas Market tours outside of Europe, too. From New York to Toronto, check out  our 5 favorite Christmas markets not in Europe .

One of the best parts of our tours to Christmas markets is seeing all the souvenirs and gifts our travelers find. From scented ornaments and Advent calendars to cinnamon cookies and handmade nutcrackers, you’re bound to find a gift for everyone on your list. Check out  the best souvenirs you can find on our European Christmas Market tours .

The most important thing to know about European Christmas market vacations is that each one is unique. You could visit ten markets and have a different experience at each one! Read our blog on  what to do at Europe’s different Christmas markets .

Another tip is to be sure to visit at least one market at night. That’s when they’re the most magical! Show up hungry, too, because there are so many delicious foods to try at each market.

Lastly, if you’re wondering what to pack for a Christmas Market tour, bring lots of warm layers to keep toasty as you walk around the outdoor winter wonderland. And of course, our best tip is to leave room in your luggage for all the souvenirs you’ll bring home!

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With dazzling light displays and a festive ambiance, traditional cuisine and charming customs, you can experience the grandeur of the winter season with a European Christmas Market Tour. The joyous traditions represent past and present heritage accentuated by crisp air, happy locals, celebrated chalets, and snowcapped cathedrals. Discover the best ways you can enjoy Europe’s Christmas Markets with the sample itineraries below.

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Your customizable 10-day Italy Christmas tour immerses you in Italian culture and illuminates the deep-rooted connection between ancient tradition and Christian heritage embodied in the art, architecture, cuisine, and customs. From a graceful Christmas tree contrasting the powerful Colosseum walls to the vibrant display of lights accentuating Nativity scenes decorating the streets of Florence, Italy provides a holiday season brimming with welcoming, cheerful ambiance for all to enjoy. 

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Rings of holly decorate the doors as candles flicker in the windows, bringing in a traditional Irish Christmas. Gaelic heritage blends with Christian customs set against the backdrop of the majestic countryside during your custom tailored Christmas tour of the Republic of Ireland. The songs of carolers fill the vibrant markets of Galway. Historic pubs with roaring fires provide a welcoming atmosphere in Limerick. Strong ramparts continue to protect the grand castle of Dublin and captivating seaside villages stand beside stunning mountain slopes. The charms of Ireland enhance the seasonal spirit, making for an enchanting Christmas and an unforgettable New Year.

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Picture the perfect Christmas scene: the air filled with the strains of your favorite carol and the silent dance of falling snow, the smells of hot cider and apple pie rising to your nose, the undeniable feeling of lightness and joy that heralds the coming of the season. If these are your Christmas memories, then this is your Christmas in England vacation.

Dynamic pricing from  $4,095

Germany is a reliable destination full of warm hospitality, and this 10-day tour of Frankfurt and Bavaria has been designed to immerse you in the country's many famous Christmas markets and welcoming culture. With the smell of mulled wine and pine shavings being your constant companion, you will experience a holiday like never before as you explore each destination and their distinctive take on the holiday season.

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From the cozy charm of a Cotswolds farmhouse in the wintery countryside to the scarf-wearing and pint-hoisting hospitality of London, this 9-day tour of England at Christmas time will present you with an unforgettable experience of the holidays. England is an excellent choice of destinations no matter what time of year you visit, but nothing quite matches seeing this historic land during the peak of the holiday season.

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Bask in the ambiance of the North Pole with a Christmas in Scandinavia on an exclusive tour of Finland and Norway. Your 10-day Scandinavian excursion celebrates the fascinating winter around the Arctic Circle as it reveals an enchanting untamed landscape and marvelous myths that reflect the captivating countryside. Hunt for the dancing colors of the Northern Lights then call for Santa’s reindeer during a reindeer safari. Warm your hands around traditional mulled wine, visit bustling Christmas markets, search for giant king crabs in a Norwegian fjord, and ride a dogsled across Finnish Lapland for an unparalleled winter adventure in Finland and Norway.

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Go beyond a Christmas of candy canes and sugar plum fairies, and experience the Three Wise Men parading down a Spanish street on camelback. The guardhouse at Park Guell resembles a gingerbread house topped with frosting. Crowds in a midnight square collectively eat grapes during the midnight bell chimes to bring in a sweet New Year. Christmas markets overtake open plazas framed by elegant palaces and children eagerly await holiday gifts. Your custom tailored 10-day Spain tour embodies the spirit of a Spanish Christmas, immersing you in festive celebrations and delectable cuisines between Thursday, December 29th and Sunday, January 8th, offering a new perspective on a classic tradition.

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The 17 Best Christmas Markets in France

• By Frenchly Staff
• December 18, 2023

If you are lucky enough to be in France during the holidays, there is nothing that can compare to the feeling of walking the holiday market streets, with a cup of  vin chaud  in your hand. As the air fills with the sweet scents of gingerbread and nuts, spices and Christmas trees, and the twinkling fairy lights enhance the magic of the season. This is a chance to join in on the festivities while enjoying the cool air, the happy faces, thoughtful and tasteful Christmas decorations and stocking up on any last-minute gifts you may need. Part carnival, part fair, part market, part block party, French Christmas markets are not something you want to miss. Put it on your bucket list!

Most French cities and towns have their own version of holiday market. Visitors may take the French trains to any of the listed towns and cities. Your biggest choice will be between smaller Christmas markets in picturesque villages, or the beautiful Christmas markets in big French cities. Most French Christmas markets start around Thanksgiving, and culminate with Christmas celebrations on December 24 or 25. Some even go all the way until New Year’s Eve or Epiphany!

North to South, East to West: The Best Christmas Markets in France

1. amiens christmas market.

The northern city of Amiens—capital of Picardy—hosts a festive Christmas market with a mix of local and international products that you won’t want to miss. Food-wise, they’ve got you covered: taste the delightful Amiens  macarons  and  tuiles amienoises  (crunchy, delicious almond biscuit treats), as well as savory snacks like  pâté de canard,  which will help you put on that inevitable holiday weight in style. Wash it all down with a warming glass of mulled wine at this traditional market.

What truly sets Amiens apart is its nightly  son et lumière,  a spectacular light and sound show projected onto its Notre Dame Cathedral, which happens to be the biggest gothic cathedral in France. These are not your average Christmas lights! (Nightly show at 7:00 PM)

Dates: November 25 – December 30

2. Annecy Christmas Market

Experience an Alpine Christmas in the lake town of Annecy, nestled at the base of the snowcapped Alps. This medieval city opens it’s doors at Christmas time, with over 80 vendors in  chalets  throughout the town offering dozens of gift ideas from the Alsace/Savoie region, including wooden toys and ornaments, Reblochon cheese, chocolates, pastries, woolens, berry jams, honey, candles and more. Open until early January, visitors can stock up on homemade gifts, warm up with a cup of hot wine, and stroll in the evenings to look at the spectacular lights illuminating the unique architecture. (In particular, the castle situated in the middle of a canal, Palais de l’Isle, its image bouncing off the crystal clear lake water.) A twelve-minute light show projected on the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) can also be enjoyed, as well as nightly concerts. Churches in the town will feature eclectic and hallowed displays full of all the recognizable nativity figurines but one, as they won’t gain their baby Jesus until Christmas night, per tradition. Pack your ice skates and visit the ice skating rink in François de Menthon square. Until the 24th, Father Christmas is installed in the “Santa’s Village” section of the chalets, where all the booths are painted white and feature handmade and unique gifts.

Dates: November 25 – January 6

3. Arras Christmas Market

This charming French city, midway between Paris and Brussels, might otherwise not be on your radar. But don’t underestimate Arras during Christmas time. The city has Flemish roots, meaning you can enjoy their famous, mouth-watering  gaufres , or Flemish waffles, which are the perfect treat for a winter day. The Arras Christmas market has an ice rink, street performers, and local food like  coeurs d’Arras,   small, orange colored heart-shaped cheeses with a pungent flavor. This is one of the best Christmas markets for enjoying the festive season, whether you come for the mulled wine, the Christmas carols, or the original gift ideas… or even to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve!

Dates: November 24 – December 30

4. Biarritz Christmas Market

For a Christmas market with the smoky accents of a Spanish border town, head to the surfer mecca of Biarritz, where lights everywhere turn the city into a fairyland. Until the first of the year this Basque Country town will feature outdoor markets with local specialities, like Bayonne ham or Piment d’Espelette, a special chili pepper from the region that is used a local specialty, an omelette made of peppers and tomatoes. The market will also have an ice rink and a lighted ferris wheel. Every night until early January, from 6-11 PM, the town comes alive with special light shows projected on the walls and facades of the buildings all over town.

Dates: Dates are flexible year to year. Most often, early December. Check local listings. 

5. Bordeaux Christmas Market

The Bordeaux Christmas market is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas markets in France. The wooden stalls lined up along the Allées de Tourny feature animatronic reindeer, eco-friendly Christmas decoration workshops, stilt walkers, face painting, acrobats, elves, and the opportunity to get your photo taken with Father Christmas. Local refreshments like aligot, bretzels, and roasted chestnuts will be available to warm your belly, and vegetarians will have no trouble finding delicious treats to eat. The market is also accessible to wheelchair users, though the concourse can get quite crowded close to Christmas.

Dates: November 24 – December 27

6. Collioure Christmas Market

This seaside and colorful town on the Southwestern border of Spain hugs the Meditterannean coast and has equal doses of French sophistication and Spanish intrigue. Here, Santa arrives to the delight of children on a zipline, or by jet ski, zooming up to the small local beach. Merry-go-rounds are festooned with lights and the chalet stalls in the market, set in the local Château Royal, boast majolica ceramics, roasted chestnuts, artisanal ice creams, cheeses, spices, handmade knives, local soaps, candles, and more. This is a trip for those who want a Christmas market in France with a warmer climate, and the possibility of a cool-but-not-freezing dip on a sunny winter day. Enjoy a glass of  vin chaud  while sitting under a palm tree instead of the standard Christmas tree, or take a lovely a beach stroll on Christmas morning. Packed with food and bars, this small, eccentric town with pink, blue, green, and yellow buildings is the place to go if you want a dose of fun and spirit (and also want to visit the place where Matisse got his Fauve-on).

Dates: Check local listings as dates vary. 

7. Colmar Christmas Market

If you’re looking for the best Christmas market in France, you want to head to Northeast to Alsace. Located in the eastern France, wedged between Switzerland, Germany and Luxembourg, the small Alsatian town of Colmar is one of the true capitals of Christmas celebration. Transport yourself into an old-time fairytale in this ancient, primarily pedestrian, city. The  vielle ville  is composed of German Renaissance-style architecture with its iconic half-timbered houses, and the town center turns into a week-long celebration for the Colmar Christmas market, illuminated with festive lighting to enhance the city’s heritage. Each window and door in town is adorned with holiday wreaths and Christmas decorations, as well as grand nativity scenes, making this truly one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France. Walk the city streets and don’t forget to indulge in mulled wine, sweet treats, and festive food while there.

Dates: November 23 – December 29

8. Lille Christmas Market

All the way at the tip of northern France is the young and bustling boomtown city of Lille, which shines with holiday spirit during the winter months. The festive atmosphere comes alive on its streets, decked out in Christmas lights and decorations, as well as 80 wooden  chalets , or market stalls. While most French Christmas markets support entirely local production, Lille’s Christmas market includes a United Nations of artisan products from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as the Americas. The market features a glorious ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, as well as many chalets dedicated to tasting the regions’ best foods and others which feature unique holiday activities.

Dates: November 22 – December 30

9. Lyon Christmas Market

Known the country of France over for its gastronomy, Lyon is also famous for one of the most spectacular light shows in all of France, known as the Fête des Lumières. Held annually in early December, this four day light extravaganza draws festive spirits from all over France.

Even if you miss the Fêe des Lumières, the Lyon Christmas market, located in the old city in the Place Carnot, is open until Christmas Eve, and boasts a hundred stalls full of food and artisanal crafts, like handmade shoes, silkscreened bags (Lyon is famous for its silk), knitted hats, and more. The foods from Lyon are not to be missed, like a  praluline , which is a local specialty of a brioche made with the Lyonnais specialty of pink sugared almonds. With vin chaud in hand, you can stuff yourself with oysters, cheeses, quenelles, roasted chestnuts, and pain d’épices, the French version of gingerbread. If you’re a foodie and happen to be in France at Christmas, this is your destination.

Dates: November 23 – December 24

10. Dijon Christmas Market

Just two hours north of Lyon by train is Dijon, where the Christmas markets at Place Darcy and Rue de la Liberté Place Darcy and Place du Théâtre will be kitted out with twinkling lights and decorative window displays, as will Porte Guillaume, the Église Notre-Dame, and the Palais des ducs et des États de Bourgogne. Enjoy the views from the 130-foot-tall Ferris wheel, take a spin on the merry-go-round at the Children’s Village, ooh and ahh at the stunning light shows of this this French Christmas market, or enjoy a luxe splurge at the city’s truffle market. If you’re there on December 24th, be sure to stop by at 6:30pm, when Santa “falls,” per tradition, from the Tour Philippe Le Bon, and rewards children with sweets after safely landing.

Dates: December 2 – January 7

11. Metz Christmas Market

One of the longest-standing Christmas markets in France is held in Metz, just East of the Lorraine forrest and south of the border from Luxembourg. There, at the Place Saint Louis, Place de la République, and Place de la Comédie, you can find some of the finest hand-made Christmas presents anywhere or taste the best gingerbread in France. There’s an ice rink, a colorful merry-go-round, and a magical “Sentiers des Lanternes” light corner. The Metz Christmas market also features entertainment for adults, with gourmet food available at the classic wooden chalets, where you can indulge in mulled wine and local specialties.

Dates: November 24 – December 30

12. Montbéliard Christmas Market

A bit South of Colmar is Montbéliard, a largely Swiss city located in France. Just 8 miles away from Switzerland, this little town is a lovely mix between the two cultures and traditions. Looking for a traditional Christmas market? The 160 lovely stalls full of authentic and high quality items in  Montbéliard  deliver just that, embracing the true atmosphere of Christmas. Walk the snowy streets or even engage in dance and singing of Christmas music in the town square.

Dates: November 25 – December 24

13. Paris Christmas Markets

It’s not surprising that Paris would have some of the best Christmas markets in France. And while there are plenty of enchanting Christmas markets in the French capital each year, the largest Christmas market in the city is the Tuileries Christmas market, which stretches all the way to Place de la Concorde. (It has replaced the famous Christmas market on the Champs-Élysées.) You can also try the popular Christmas markets by Notre-Dame or Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) in the city centre. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés marché also always brings in a local crowd, in a quaint and lovely atmosphere. You’ll be sure to get plenty of gift ideas at this French Christmas market. For more markets please check out  ParisInfo.com  as just about every neighborhood will put on its own particular odyssey and show at Christmas time.

Dates: Various (see  Paris Tourism website  for details)

14. Pérouges Christmas Market

Only 25 miles Northeast of Lyon (and included in our  15 Best Day Trips from Lyon ), Pérouges is a tiny village of only 100 year-round inhabitants. Kept immaculately preserved, clean and distinct in its vibe, Pérouges is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in all of France. (It’s actually on France’s list of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.”)

The old town of Pérouges is perched on a hill, with the Alps as a backdrop and has half-timbered houses. Hidden behind fortress walls, this medieval town has two entrance gates, cobblestoned streets, narrow alleys, secret byways, and Liberty Square, named for a towering Linden tree that was planted during the French Revolution.

This is one of the most magical places in all of France to experience a Christmas market. The old town comes alive in lights and old-fashioned nuance. In addition to the local delicacy of the sweet leavened lemon-flavored bread called the Galette de Pérouges, created in 1912 to keep people fed on Fridays during Lent, all of Pérouges comes alive before the holidays with market stalls full of artisans and local delicacies. Walk the cobblestoned streets and see the twinkling lights and candles in all the windows and sip a  vin chaud.

15. Reims Christmas Market

For those staying in central France, the Champagne city of Reims is the midpoint between Metz and Paris (1h30 away.)  Reims  has loads of history and is where most of France’s Kings were crowned at the regal Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims. The annual Reims Christmas market is set at the Place d’Erlon, facing the medieval cathedral, where 145 market stalls shine with twinkling lights and offer seasonal gifts. Street entertainers crowd the streets while some take a ride on the Ferris Wheel, Champagne in hand.

Dates: November 24 – December 24

16. Strasbourg Christmas Market

And while you’re in the East, Strasbourg is just slightly North of Colmar. Legend has it that the first ever (and definitely the most famous) Christmas market was first set in the city of  Strasbourg . It was 1570, then called the “Christkindelsmärik” (market of the Infant Jesus). Today it is known as the oldest Christmas market in Europe. The streets will be filled with over 300 wooden chalets filled with food, gifts and drinks as well as winter games and entertainment, including a Children’s Christmas Village. There are actually several Christmas markets here, many of them centered around the Place de la Cathédrale. The crown jewel of the market is a beauty of a Christmas tree, one of France’s tallest and most beautiful Christmas trees to date. Many people consider the Strasbourg Christmas market to be the best Christmas market in the entire country, if not the world, and when you see how the festive season transforms the city’s historic centre into a winter wonderland, you won’t be surprised.

17. Toulouse Christmas Market

Many of the best Christmas markets in France are in the North, but Toulouse offers a delightful option for those who would rather  not  freeze their butts off while ornament shopping. This southwest city hosts a Christmas market brimming with festive cheer, where locals dine on  aligot  (a cheesy potato dish that will threaten stop your heart), Spanish-style hot chocolate, and regional favorites like  foie gras . Shop for local salves, toys, cosmetics, and candles.

Dates: November 24 – December 26

Co-written by co-editors of Frenchly, Caitlin Shetterly and Cat Rickman.

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Christmas Markets Along the Rhine

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Visits to Christmas Markets in Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Baden and Strasbourg*

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All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors & Tauck Cruise Director

All private Tauck shore excursions – $1,536 Value!

Walking tours of market cities and towns with local guides

Visits to Old Town Heidelberg and historic Heidelberger Schlöss (Heidelberg Castle)

* Please note: Operating dates for the Christmas Markets could be subject to change; every effort will be made to visit as scheduled.

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

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Travel along the Rhine for the holiday season, from Basel to Köln and Düsseldorf aboard ms Inspire,  both perfect ways to capture all the magic of Christmas Markets in Germany and France.

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Housed in a centuries-old castle in the charming Rhine Valley wine town of Rüdesheim, Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinett really must be seen – and heard – to be believed. It's the legacy of the late Siegfried Wendel, who founded his first museum dedicated to antique self-playing musical instruments in the 1970s. The current Musikkabinett in the 14th-century Brömserhof display's Siegfried's mesmerizing collection of mechanized musical clocks, player pianos, fairground organs, self-playing violins and many more... including the world's largest automated doll orchestra!

After several land tours with Tauck, this was our first on one of their riverboats. Even with our very high expectations, this trip exceeded them by a wide margin!

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a  passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Germany, France and Switzerland. You are not required to obtain a visa for the short duration of this cruise.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries we visit on this cruise to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

You will be issued a boarding card, which you must present before embarking the ship in each port. This security measure also ensures that only Tauck guests are permitted onboard.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your cabin while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and inform us at time of booking.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally , no other vaccinations are currently required for travel to Germany, France or Switzerland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Info Center at 800-232-4636/800-CDC-INFO (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally ,  please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries we visit on this tour to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

While a cruise on the Rhine is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the cruise has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our visits to the Christmas markets, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond, Ruby and Emerald decks. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate in December along the Rhine is seasonably cold. The average high and low temperatures are 42/33 °F (6/1 °C). The amount of precipitation is approximately 1.8 in (45.72 mm).

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa. gov, by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A coat and sweater for the sun deck and touring is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps. For the welcome and farewell dinners, you may wish to dress more formally – jacket and tie for men, casually elegant attire for ladies (not required).

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each cabin on board the riverboat.

The riverboat provides limited valet laundry services but no dry cleaning. Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 cabins feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We recommend you pack the following items for your cruise on the Rhine:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
• Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
• Slacks and jeans
• Medium-weight socks
• Medium-weight sweater
• Winter coat
• Raincoat and rain hat
• Lightweight gloves
• Collapsible umbrella
• Sun protection
• Camera, lenses, batteries and plenty of film and/or memory cards
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Travel clock with alarm
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your cabin while traveling

The Tauck Experience

Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Rhine river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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The Good Life France

Everything You Want to Know About France and More...

The best winter tours of France

• Janine Marsh
• Tours in France

Winter is one of the best times to visit France – the museums are uncrowded (and warm!), and there’s still plenty going on. And the holiday season is an ideal time to take a tour in style. So, if you’re dreaming of visiting France here are some of our top tour recommendations for winter, Christmas and New Year visits…

CroisiEurope – the best for Christmas & New Year cruises

The largest cruise operator in France, CroisiEurope’s cruises are unbeatable and their Christmas tours are legendary. Visit the famous Christmas markets of Alsace, Strasbourg, AKA the Capital of Christmas with its many festive markets and beautifully decorated streets and stores. Visit picturesque villages, take in a show, follow the wine route and be captivated by Colmar. It doesn’t get more magical than this.

CroisiEurope’s Christmas and New Year cruises also weave their magic in the Loire Valley and the Seine Valley. How about Paris to Honfleur? Enchanting any time of the year but never more so than at Christmas. Or the south of France from Lyon to Provence – including festive Avignon. And even beautiful Bordeaux.

Enjoy all-inclusive life onboard with the finest food and wines and fabulous tours that take you to the heart of each destination. No stressing. No driving. And no wondering how to fit in all the glorious must-see places or how to reach the off the beaten track gems. CroisiEurope’s cruises and excursions take you to the very best of France – in style.  croisieurope.co.uk

Winter Holiday Tour in Provence

Planning for an end of the year seasonal treat? Join Your Private Provence’s festive Tour of Provence . It’s a small group tour that features VIP wine tours, culture, spa treat, cooking lesson, lovely markets and parades. You’ll visit beautifully decorated towns and villages including the beautifully decorated towns of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Aix-en-Provence.Seasonally sublime. And restaurants are chosen for their cosy winter atmosphere

And in the new year join a truffle tour when the “black diamonds” are at their best on a gourmet experience winter escape.

Alsace Christmas day and half day tours

Family run Ophorus Tours are one of the most renowned and popular tour companies in France. They have a huge range of half and full day trips including Christmas market tours in Alsace in Strasbourg, the pretty villages and Colmar. They pick you up, drop you off and have the best English speaking guides in the business. Ophorus.com

Battlefield tours and historical travel experiences

Sophie’s Great War Tours are tailor-made historical travel experiences. This family-run specialist tour operator creates exceptional WWI and WWII battlefields tours across France, Belgium and the Netherlands. Travel at your pace and explore the destinations you really want to get to know, at a time to suit you. Sophie will research the history and background of soldier so that each battlefield tour is a personal historical experience. Her team can also include additional experiences to suit you such as chateau visits in the Loire, Champagne tastings in Champagne and a classic car tour in Provence. Every itinerary is created to be perfect – for you.  sophiesgreatwartours.com

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Journey of Doing

7 Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

Hopefully by now, I’ve convinced you to make your own Christmas market trip to Europe!  Despite the cold, there is nowhere I’d rather celebrate the holiday season than in Europe.  The smell of roasted chestnuts, the warmth of mulled wine, traditional wooden stalls selling beautiful Christmas decor, and glimmering Christmas lights all get me out of our hotel room on the coldest of nights.  That being said, even if the Christmas markets don’t get you going, these Christmas market trip itineraries can help you plan your vacations at any point in the year.

This post is heavily focused on central Europe.  Did you know that Hungary and the Czech Republic are not  considered to be part of Eastern Europe?  Test your knowledge through this  European map quiz .  It’s sure to inspire a whole host of alternate itineraries to try, particularly if you want to experience Eastern Europe destinations.  Estonia, Latvia, and the entire Balkan peninsula are calling to me.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this list of some of the  best European Christmas markets !

Disclosure:  This post contains affiliate links for tours and products I love at no additional cost to you.  You can read my  full disclosure policy here.

Christmas Market Trip Travel Tips

To maximize your trip, I highly suggest that you book an open jaw ticket.  A open jaw ticket is one that arrives in one city and departs from another city.  Typically, I like to choose my two furthest points to minimize any backtracking.  I use Skyscanner to get an idea of what are the cheap travel deals. Using my home airport (DFW) I search to anywhere in Europe.  I also subscribe to Scott’s Cheap Flights and CheapDFW .  Once I know what is on sale, I use ITA Matrix to figure out which flights I want. I use Book with Matrix to find the best deal for my specific flight.

Use Rome2Rio to compare train, bus, and car transportation options.  Trains are usually the most efficient way to travel, but it depends on the size of your group.  In some cases, it might be better to drive.  We’ve done both.  If you’ve never been abroad and you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation, you might want to consider a river cruise, but I promise that you can do this!

Winter in Europe is cold.  I could do a whole packing post on what I’ve learned, but I haven’t done it yet.  My suggestions are to purchase cuddledud base layers that can be layered under leggings or jeans.  I find cashmere sweaters to the best for staying warm.  I have a pair of wool lined waterproof Ugg books that I’ve had for six years.  They keep my feet warm and dry.  Beyond that, you’ll want a scarf, a hat, an ear band, and gloves, too.  I am all about the layering!

One Week Christmas Market Trip Ideas

Classic central europe.

Salzburg, Austria (2 nights)

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

Affordable Central Europe

Munich, Germany (2 nights)

Bratislava, Slovakia (2 nights)

One Week Itinerary for France Christmas Markets

The Alsace wine route is great at any time of year, and it’s perfect for Christmas markets, too!  I recommend flying into Paris and immediately catching a train from Charles de Gaulle to Strasbourg.  We’ve done this Paris to Strasbourg itinerary twice and it’s super easy!  From there, you can rent a car or take the train.  If you opt for the train, I think Strasbourg and Colmar are the best connected.  On the return, you can spend a couple nights in Paris and enjoy their Christmas markets, too.  We’ve spent Christmas in Paris twice and it’s just magical at Christmas time.

Note:  Not all Alsatian Christmas markets are open every day.  You’ll want to check the Alsace Christmas market calendar before making plans, especially for some of the smaller towns in Alsace.  The suggested itinerary below is for markets that stay open consistently, but there are some off the beaten path towns in Alsace that I love!  I would choose Strasbourg or Colmar and then fit together some of the smaller towns based on your own Christmas market trip timing.  (We actually walked from Colmar to the Eguisheim Christmas markets one day.  That might be a little intense, but it’s doable!  

Strasbourg (2 nights)   

Colmar (2 nights)

Paris (3 nights)

10 Day Christmas Market Trip Itineraries

Both of these itineraries will allow you to see some of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.  Many popular river cruises use some variation of these itineraries, but this will allow you to enjoy seeing the cities at night.  I think they appeal to difference audiences, though I love each of these itineraries equally.  

Don’t miss the incredible ice rink in Slovakia.  It’s one of my favorite memories of our first trip, though I love the ice rink in Salzburg as well.  (I came home from studying abroad with black and blue knees from ice skating!)

Central European Capitals

Budapest, Hungary (3 nights)

Bavarian Christmas Tour

Salzburg, Austria (3 nights)

Nuremberg, Germany (2 nights)

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany (2 nights)

Munich, Germany (3 nights)

Two Week Christmas Market Trip Itinerary Ideas

This is the first Christmas market trip itinerary that we used, and it is intense.  It’s worth it though.  For me, there was nothing more magical that ending our trip with the big Christmas tree in the middle of Old Town Square.  It felt like my favorite scene in the Nutcracker and I loved every minute of it.

Classic Central Europe Itinerary

Vienna, Austria (2 nights)

Prague, Czech Republic (3 nights)

German Christmas and Central Europe Itinerary

This itinerary flies into and out of Munich.  If your trip will end on or shortly after Christmas Day, I recommend reversing it to end your trip in Salzburg .  On Christmas Eve, you can visit the chapel where Silent Night was first performed .  How’s that for a magical Christmas Eve??

Nuremburg, Germany (2 nights)

Which are the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets?

All of these cities are beautiful in their own right.  There are things I love about all of them.  Nuremberg is the original German Christmas market.  I think Salzburg has the most beautiful views.  Vienna has the most beautiful Christmas lights.  Marienplatz in Munich is one of the most beautiful squares I’ve ever seen.  Old Town Square is a scene out of The Nutcracker.  Budapest at night is pure magic.  The old town in Bratislava epitomizes Christmas cheer.  Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the Christmas village of  Kathe Wohlfahrt in real life.

You can’t go wrong with any combination of these cities.  Pick your favorite Christmas market trip and get excited!  They are all lovely in their own right.  If you’re looking for more Christmas markets in Germany, Lorelei has a lot of unique Bavarian Christmas markets, villages, and towns on her blog!

Salzburg:  The Alpine Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel Goldgasse or Hotel Goldener Hirsch

Where to Eat:   Zum Zirkelwirt or Gasthof Wilder Mann

Don’t Miss:   Apple Strudel and Christmas Cookie Class

Who Loves Salzburg:   People who don’t mind being outside.  Between the Christmas market at Hohensalzburg Fortress, the one at Helbrunn Schloss, and the lakeside village markets, you have to enjoy spending time outside.  I wouldn’t recommend missing any of those markets, in addition the ones in the middle of the aldstadt, but if you don’t enjoy being outside, I would head to a city that offers more indoor activities.

Vienna:  The Beautiful Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hotel am Stephansplatz or Ritz Carlton Vienna

Where to Eat:   Trattoria da Angelo – I love the rose ravioli!

Don’t Miss:   The Christmas lights!  I love the chandeliers near St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Who Loves Vienna:  If you love music, culture, and cafes, Vienna has plenty of things to do on cold, wet days.  After touring Schonnbrunn Palace, you can take in a classical concert or see a strudel show.  I love sipping amaretto hot chocolate and reading at Cafe Central.  There are numerous museums, covering every topic you could imagine in the heart of Vienna.  If that’s not enough to satisfy your culture appetite, take a class to learn the Viennese waltz.  (We did; it was fun!)

Bratislava: Christmas Markets for Foodies

Where to Stay:   Sheraton Bratislava or Roset Boutique Hotel

Where to Eat:   Rio Grande Restaurant – I love the lava steak!

Don’t Miss:   A food tour of the Christmas markets !  You’ll try a lot of Slovak specialties.  Find a place where you can comfortable enjoy the ambiance around the ice rink in the old town.  A lot places have outdoor heaters and blankets to keep warm!  It’s worth it!

Who Loves Bratislava:   If Vienna is too big, too modern, or too expensive for you, Bratislava feels like a world away from the grand architecture of Vienna.  Less than an hour away, it offers a similar beauty to Prague without the crowds.  Despite the cold temperatures, we enjoyed the public art, seeing the fortified city walls, and learning more about the differences between Slovakia and the Czech Republic, which ultimately led to their split during our lifetime.  I find this piece of modern history fascinating.

Budapest:  The City Backdrop for Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Hilton Budapest

Where to Eat:   Pest Buda Bistro and Strudel House

Don’t Miss:   Any of these tours: Budapest night walking tour with river cruise , historical Budapest , Budapest Christmas market tour .  These are some of my favorite tour guides in Europe.  I can’t wait to go back and book them again!

Who Loves Budapest:   How can you not love Budapest?  That being said, if you love history, you’ll love Budapest.  If you love beautiful architecture and grand boulevards, you’ll love Budapest.  Budapest is the coldest of the Christmas markets we visited, so you’ll want to be prepared for that, but I think it is worth it.

Prague: The Fairytale Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Four Seasons Prague or Mandarin Oriental Prague

Where to Eat:   Pasta Fresca  or Meat and Greet

Don’t Miss:   St. Vitus Cathedral .  The Spanish Synagogue .  Old Town Square at night.  Charles Bridge in the early morning light.  Mala Strana.  The list for Prague goes on and on, doesn’t it??

Who Loves Prague:   If you like nightlife, Prague is your city.  (That’s not really my jam, but I recognize that it may be other people’s.)  If you love awe-inspiring stained glass and fairy tales come to life, don’t skip Prague.  One of my most fond memories of Prague is wandering the lamplit streets of Mala Strana on the way to the castle.  I could picture easily what it must have felt like in the 1500s.  I love getting out early and experiencing the Charles Bridge when its mostly empty with only the lamps are illuminating it.  The entire city seems mysterious and magical.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: The Christmas Village

Where to Stay:   Hotel Klosterstuble

Where to Eat:   Profumo di Pasta da Guiseppe

Don’t Miss:   The Night Watchman’s Tour, eating a schneeballen , and visiting Kathe Wohlfahrt .

Who Loves Rothenburg ob der Tauber:   Anyone who loves Christmas.  It’s hard not to be a Grinch in this postcard perfect town.  If you love medieval town walls (my husband does), it’s neat to be able to walk around the city as though you are the night watchman.  The views of the German countryside are beautiful, too.

Munich:  The Traditional German Christmas Markets

Where to Stay:   Aloft Munich

Where to Eat:   TBD – we’re still in search of truly great meals in Munich!  That being said, Aldi has fresh and delicious pretzel rolls that Tom and I both still talk about.  (Why yes, my husband has identified the best products at Aldi in Europe, too.  It’s his favorite store.  He tells our family if Aldi doesn’t sell it, you don’t need it.)

Don’t Miss:   Listening to the traditional band and making friends at Hofbrauhaus .

Who Loves Munich:   Anyone who loves science or history.  Munich occupies a large space in World War II history, and I highly recommend learning more about its role in the world during that time.  The Deutsches Museum is the most comprehensive science museum I’ve ever visited, and I highly suggest visiting it.  Munich is much larger than it seems, so you’ll want to plan to get out of the old town and experience more of the neighborhoods with different feels.  The Aloft gave us a map of all the Christmas markets in the city, and many offer more traditional crafts than the markets in the city center.  (That’s yet another reason to stay with them – they encourage you to see more!)

Nuremberg:  The Original German Christmas Market

Where to Stay:   Melter Hotel and Apartments

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  (I love the Nuremberg sausage.  And the pretzels.)

Don’t Miss:   Taking a food tour of Nuremberg !

Who Loves Nuremberg:   People who love history.  You need to visit the Documentation Center.  Not everything can be filled with Christmas cheer, but it’s important to understand that the atrocities that happened during World War II didn’t happen over night.  It is the result of a slow and methodical stripping away of the humanity of others.  We’re in danger of repeating that again, so I encourage you to learn more than we were taught it school.  It remains one of the most transformative experiences of my education.

Strasbourg Christmas Markets: The Capital of Christmas

Where to Stay:   Regent Petite France Hotel & Spa or Le Bouclier d’Or

Where to Eat:   at the Christmas market!  Don’t miss the Vin Chaud Blanc – my favorite is right in front of the Strasbourg Cathedral – literally smack dab in the middle.  It’s an additional Euro and it’s worth it.  

Don’t Miss:   Strasbourg Christmas Market Food Tour  

Who Loves Strasbourg:   People who are looking for a bigger city with their Christmas market.  For me, it felt like a smaller Vienna or similar to Bratislava.  I really loved being able to take a break from the crowds at our hotel spa, too.  (It overlooks the Petite France canals, too!)    

Colmar Christmas Markets: Christmas Markets with Canals

Where to Stay:   La Maison des Tetes

Where to Eat:   Via Roma , La Pignata , or the Covered Market right across from Petite Venise.  (You’ll want reservations anywhere in Colmar during Christmas time.  Colmar gets so busy!   

Don’t Miss:   Alsatian wine tasting at Domaine Martin Jund

Who Loves Colmar:   People who don’t mind crowds.  People who love holiday decor.  People who want to feel non-stop Christmas cheer.  The entire town is decked out for Christmas and it’s busy.  It can be a little overwhelming if you have sensory overload issues.  If you find yourself in that position, take a morning and head over to Eguisheim.  It’s a little quieter, a little calmer, and absolutely gorgeous.  

What Should I Buy at a Christmas Market?

For me, the best souvenirs at Christmas ornaments.  Tom and I have started a tradition where we purchase a Christmas ornament from the cities we visit.  Many of the Christmas markets have regulations that you can’t sell cheap crap that is mass produced.  Thus, you’ll find beautiful hand-painted or hand-blown Christmas ornaments.  I could look at them for hours, to be honest.  Whether your Christmas tree has a theme or a color, chances are, you’ll find something that is absolutely perfect for you.  Strasbourg had the best selection of the incense houses to create a Christmas village at home.  

Beyond that, look for things you can’t find at home.  In each city, I’ve always found something that was unique to the region.  My grandmother loves her potpourri Christmas tree we purchased in 2016 and it still smells great!  Similarly, my cousin loves the wooden dog statue we found for her on this last trip.  My mother-in-law loves her traditional German wooden pyramid decoration.  I love the bath salts my mom found me; she loves the schnapps, spices and oils she purchased for herself.  You can certainly purchase things like jewelry and journals, but I think the best part of Christmas markets is finding the specific regional things that you can’t find easily in the United States.

Sara loves to help people use their vacation time more effectively by planning beautiful, memorable, and delicious trips. She spends several weeks every year exploring Italy and central Europe. In addition to her full-time job, she is constantly searching for beautiful places and spaces. She loves the direct flights between Dallas and Italy, France, and Germany but is always up for wherever a great deal on an airline ticket will take her. (Sara also really loves European Christmas markets and tries to visit at least one new one every holiday season.)

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Stockholm is yours to explore ttoday oon a guided tour.

WOW, absolutely beautiful! I can’t believe how many cities/countries you’ve traveled to in Europe and have gotten to experience the true Christmas spirit each has to offer!

great ideas for christmas ITINERARIES 

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CHRISTMAS MARKET EXPERIENCES

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Our blogs are a great way to find the best European Christmas Markets to visit. Whether you want to try the best gluhwein, indulge in a local Trdelník pastry, or buy a decoration straight out of A Christmas Carol, we've got a guide for you.

Discover Europe's most picture-perfect Christmas Markets

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What to Buy at a Christmas Market

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Discover inspiring, magical moments captured by our guests exploring Christmas Markets in Europe

Your search for ""

Are there any activities for children?

There may be a variety of activities for children, depending on the market, from hay bales to ice skating, and some have small rides or playgrounds. The main focus of a Christmas Market is the festive food and drink, crafts, and showcasing local traditions. But there's always a good chance of ice skating.

Are the markets wheelchair accessible?

The markets all take place outside and are wheelchair friendly although some are in cobblestone areas, which may be more difficult. If you require a wheelchair while you travel with Insight Vacations, or any of our sister brands, please ensure you complete the accessibility assessment prior to travel.

Are they only on in December?

Christmas Market dates change year on year and regionally. These generally start in the last week of November and will run until Christmas Day.

Do I need to carry cash with me?

This depends on the region. In Germany, Switzerland and Austria most vendors will take cards but in the Czech Republic or the Balkans then cash would be preferred by vendors in the market.

Are there washrooms?

This will depend on the market as they range in size. If a market does have washrooms, they will usually be portable restrooms and they may be limited in number.

Should I wear comfortable shoes?

Comfortable shoes are a must! There are not many places to sit down and the markets are set up for wandering, drinking gluhwein and shopping for handmade gifts and local treats.

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Ultimate Christmas Markets

A Guide to Europe and Beyond

Lyon Christmas Market 2024 Dates & the Festival of Lights

Last Updated: 19 April 2024 1 Comment

Lyon’s rich architectural heritage forms the perfect backdrop for the annual Christmas market, drawing locals and visitors alike with its vibrant stalls and a tempting selection of seasonal treats.

In the following guide, I’ll shed light on everything you’ll need to know to plan a visit to Lyon Christmas Market in 2024, from specific dates and opening times to locations, standout stalls and distinct local specialties.

As December approaches Lyon, a festive spirit sweeps across the city, instilling a unique warmth that counteracts the frosty winter air.

This enchanting atmosphere harmoniously aligns with the city’s renowned Festival of Lights, a lights spectacle scheduled to brighten up Lyon from the 7th to the 9th of December in 2024 (unconfirmed).

Lyon Christmas Market 2024

At the Christmas market in Lyon, nearly 100 wooden chalets dot the landscape, their displays full of artisanal crafts, festive decorations and Lyonnaise specialties.

Among the delicious treats, you’ll find Lyon’s famed sausages, Praluline brioche and the warming tradition of vin chaud (mulled wine).

Dates and Location

Lyon Christmas Market dates: 25th November to 24th December 2024 (unconfirmed). Location: Place Carnot. Opening times: Sunday to Thursday: 10:30am to 8pm. Friday and Saturday: 10:30am to 10pm. Christmas Day: Closed. Admission: Free. Christmas lights: Lyon Festival of Lights – 6th to 9th December 2024 (unconfirmed). More info . Santa: Yes, proceeds from photo sales go to charity. Ice skating: Yes, at Place Ambroise Courtois. Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options. Vegan: Yes, plenty of options. Gluten-free: Yes, but limited. Accessible: Yes. Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead. Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Reason to visit:  Authentic Lyonnaise gastronomy, traditional wooden chalets, Fete des Lumieres. Recommended tour: 4-hour Lyon food tasting tour . Specialities: Lyon’s famed sausages; Praluline brioche, tartiflette, Saint Marcellin cheese, marrons glacés. Where to stay: Hotel De Verdun 1882 is a highly-rated hotel, 2-minutes from Place Carnot.

Where to Stay

The Carnot-Gailleton area in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement is an ideal base due to its proximity to the market and central location. You’ll find many attractions, cafes and restaurants within walking distance, including the Festival of Lights locations.

In this area, I recommend the Hotel De Verdun 1882 for its quality service and excellent facilities, placing you at the heart of Lyon’s holiday festivities.

Tours You Might Like

Despite the winter chill, the allure of Lyon’s historic quarters, museums and architecture make it a city well worth exploring. A city tour is a great opportunity for an introduction to the city’s heritage and culture.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Lyon, you might like this pedicab tour (the guide pedals while you sit in the back) that takes in many of Lyon’s highlights with insightful commentary.

Alternatively, this 4-hour food tasting tour provides a fascinating angle on Lyon’s culture through its celebrated cuisine.

For a more comprehensive look at where to go this winter, my guide to the French Christmas markets will provide you with detailed information to help plan your itinerary.

Lyon Festival of Lights

The Lyon Festival of Lights, known locally as Fête des Lumières, is a spectacular event transforming Lyon into a vibrant light canvas.

Held annually in early December, this four-day event attracts millions of visitors to the city. Artists worldwide are invited to create light installations illuminating the city’s iconic buildings, streets and parks.

It’s an event deeply rooted in the city’s tradition, originally a simple candle-lit tribute to the Virgin Mary. An international celebration of creativity and light is a stunning sight.

Lyon Festival of Lights dates: 6th to 9th December 2024 (unconfirmed). Opening times: Thursday to Saturday: 8pm to midnight. Sunday: 6pm to 8pm. Locations: The main locations of the Festival of Lights include: Saint-Jean Cathedral Saint-Paul Railway Station Fourvière Hill Place du Change Les Subsistances Place Sathoney Place des Terreaux Place Louis Pradel Place de la Bourse Place de la République Quartier Grolée Place des Jacobins

Christmas in Lyon

Specialties.

Réveillon : This traditional French feast held on Christmas Eve is no ordinary meal. It’s a celebratory gastronomic event showcasing some of France’s finest foods, like foie gras, oysters, escargots (snails) and champagne. The word Réveillon itself derives from ‘réveil’ meaning ‘waking’, as this feast typically goes late into the night.

Bûche de Noël : When it comes to desserts, the Bûche de Noël, or Yule Log, is a true classic. This dessert resembles a log, as a nod to the ancient tradition of burning a yule log at Christmas. The cake is a rolled sponge, usually filled with chocolate or chestnut puree, covered with chocolate ganache to imitate bark and decorated with sugar paste figurines.

Oysters : Although not a unique Lyonnaise tradition, eating oysters at Christmas is a staple in France. They are typically served raw on the half shell with a little lemon juice or mignonette sauce. This delicacy is usually consumed as an appetiser during the Réveillon feast.

Quenelles : These are a Lyonnaise speciality. Quenelles are a type of dumpling, typically made with creamed fish or meat, combined with breadcrumbs and a light egg binding. They are often poached and served with a rich sauce.

Pommes Dauphinoise : A traditional French dish that originated in the Dauphiné region. The dish involves thinly sliced and layered potatoes cooked in the oven with cream, garlic and cheese.

Tartiflette : Originating from the Savoy region, tartiflette is a hearty, warming dish perfect for winter. It’s a robust, creamy side dish made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons (bacon) and onions.

Raclette : A semi-hard cheese typically used for melting, Raclette is a sociable meal where melted cheese is scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles and charcuterie.

Galette des Rois : Although traditionally associated with Epiphany in January, it’s not uncommon to see this flaky puff pastry tart earlier in the season. A small figurine, or ‘fève’, is hidden inside, and the person who finds it in their slice becomes the ‘king’ or ‘queen’ for the day.

Remember, Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France, and you might find a variety of regional specialities not mentioned here.

Food at the Market

Praluline : Originating from the city of Lyon, Praluline is a rich brioche filled with pink sugared almonds. Crafted by Auguste Pralus in 1955, this sweet brioche comes in smaller sizes too.

Vin Chaud : Winter markets wouldn’t be complete without a cup of vin chaud or mulled wine. It’s a warm, spiced drink perfect for keeping the chill at bay while strolling through the market, typically made from red wine combined with spices and citrus peel.

Saucisson Chaud : A quintessential Lyonnaise street food, Saucisson Chaud is a warm, hearty sausage typically served in a baguette. It’s often enjoyed with a dollop of mustard, making for a satisfying, quick meal while exploring.

Roasted Chestnuts : The sweet, nutty aroma of roasted chestnuts is a hallmark of European Christmas markets. Often sold by street vendors, these are roasted on an open fire and served warm.

Pain d’épices : A traditional French spiced bread, often compared to gingerbread but it’s quite different in my opinion. It’s usually made with rye flour, honey, and spices such as aniseed.

Crêpes: Thin, light pancakes with sweet or savoury fillings, from simple sugar and lemon to rich Nutella or sophisticated flambéed Grand Marnier, crêpes are a ubiquitous street food item in France.

Bratwurst : Representing the influence of neighbouring Germany, Bratwurst (German-style sausage) is often found in Lyon.

What to Buy

Lyon Silk : Historically, Lyon has been a significant centre for the silk industry. You’ll find beautiful silk scarves, ties, and other accessories for sophisticated and unique gifts at the market.

Guignol Puppets : These traditional Lyonnaise puppets are a local favourite. With their cheerful faces and vibrant costumes, they can make for a charming and nostalgic present for children or lovers of traditional theatre.

Santons de Provence : Hand-painted terracotta nativity figurines from the Provence region of France. These intricate figurines depict the nativity scene and a variety of traditional Provencal characters, from shepherds to millers.

French Gastronomic Products : Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, has a rich selection of food products that can be taken home as gifts. Think of bottles of local wine, artisanal cheese, Lyonnaise sausages, or jars of local honey.

Decorations : Traditional ornaments, beautifully crafted baubles, handmade nativity scenes and other festive decorations abound.

French Cosmetics : From luxurious soaps to natural skin care products, French cosmetics have a well-deserved reputation for quality. It’s not uncommon to find stalls selling these products, often made with local ingredients, like lavender from Provence or honey from the Rhône-Alpes region.

For an extensive range of resources and helpful tips for your visit, I highly recommend checking out Visiter Lyon , a very user-friendly and informative website dedicated to assisting visitors to the city.

Sustainability Tips

Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Lyon.

• Choose Renewable Energy : Some hotels in Lyon are committed to using renewable energy. Choosing such places supports the shift towards a more sustainable energy future.
• Reduce Food Waste : Order portions you can finish and consider sharing dishes to minimise waste.
• Ethical Consumption : At the markets, prioritise locally made gifts and products that support the regional economy. It’s a positive step towards ethical consumption by supporting local makers.
• Sustainable Diets : Many plant-based and vegetarian restaurants in Lyon offer tasty dishes. Moving to plant-based meals, even for a few days, can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
• Sustainable Transport : Lyon has a fantastic public transportation system, which includes trams, buses and the metro. Additionally, Lyon’s Vélo’v bike-sharing program is a fun, healthy and sustainable way to see the city.

By making small, conscious choices, you can make your visit to Lyon enjoyable and sustainable. Remember, every little action can contribute to the bigger picture of global sustainability.

Visiting Lyon in winter is a unique experience, defined by the many winter events and attractions. You can’t go wrong enjoying the local cuisine, exploring the history-soaked streets, and taking in the beautifully illuminated landmarks.

If you want to leave a review of Lyon Xmas Market, comment below.

Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Lyon, France. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.

Plan Your Winter Holiday

Reader interactions.

November 25, 2023 at 5:13 pm

We will be in Lyon December 21st and so excited to experience the Christmas festivities. Thanks for the information!

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Ultimate Christmas Markets A guide to Christmas in Europe and beyond.

Written by Andrea Anastasakis PO Box 205 Fremantle WA 6959

Email:  [email protected]

Money latest: The best breakfast to keep you full until lunch - without paying a fortune

Our series on how to eat more healthily for less is back - and we're looking at breakfast. Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Friday 3 May 2024 12:47, UK

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The chair of HSBC has predicted the Bank of England will cut interest rates in June.

Speaking at HSBC's annual general meeting today, Mark Tucker said he expected the European Central Bank and Bank of England to cut rates next month, both lowering by 150 basis points by the end of 2025.

He also said he expected the US Federal Reserve to cut rates in September.

However, yesterday, one of the world's leading economic authorities, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, said interest rates, which are at a post-2008 era high of 5.25%, should stay there.

"The fiscal and monetary policy mix is adequately restrictive and should remain so until inflation returns durably to target," the OECD's economic outlook for 2024 said.

Mango plans to open 20 new stores this year as it continues to strengthen its UK presence.

The Spanish fashion retailer, which arrived in the UK in 1999, will be opening stores in several cities in Northern Ireland and central and southern England, as well as Scotland.

There are also plans to open four stores in London. 

Daniel Lopez, Mango director of expansion and franchising, told Retail Gazette the expansion "will consolidate the Mango brand" and help "strengthen it internationally".

The retailer recently unveiled a spring/summer collection in collaboration with Victoria Beckham.

Lidl has rushed to remove old references to so-called fake farm branding on its website after being questioned by MPs.

The retail chain told MPs yesterday that a picture of its "Strathvale farm chicken" was a "mistake" after telling them they did not use so-called fake farms.

Appearing in front of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee on fairness in the food supply chain, Lidl GB's chief commercial officer Richard Bourns was questioned on the fairness of supermarkets using fake farms to market their food.

Mr Bourns, who was questioned by committee member Rosie Duffield on using "Strathvale farm" branding for meat products, replied: "We don't use Strathvale farms, we use Strathvale.

"We do not use farm brands, just to be absolutely clear."

Committee chairman Robert Goodwill, who had access to the internet, said: "Oh wait a minute, we have here a Strathvale farm Scottish large chicken, for £3.85. Gosh that's cheap.

"So there is on the website at least, a reference to Strathvale farm."

Mr Bourns replied: "If there is a reference to Strathvale farms on our website I'd want to take that away and correct it.

"It could be the case that our website is not up to date.

"We do not have an online offering but I can categorically tell you we do not have farms brands in our business, just to be absolutely clear."

Following the committee hearing a Lidl spokesperson said: "Any historic web pages featuring old packaging that appear via a search engine are in the process of being removed to ensure complete accuracy."

By James Sillars , business reporter

A fairly tepid but positive start for shares in London this morning.

The FTSE 100 was 0.3% up at 8,196 in early deals.

Industrial stocks led the way after a quiet morning for companies reporting on their progress.

Sentiment will be driven later by reaction to the latest US employment report.

An above-forecast number for net new hiring would be likely to spark further market concern that the prospects for an interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve are even further away.

The Fed is concerned by headline inflation numbers in the world's biggest economy and strong figures for new jobs and wages could prove spooky for equity investors.

Elsewhere, oil prices remain on course to end the week sharply lower.

Brent crude is trading at $83 a barrel - down from $88 levels seen on Monday.

It's mostly a consequence of easing tensions in the Middle East and, if sustained, could help fuel pump costs come down a bit in the coming weeks.

It can be hard to balance getting nutritious foods that make you feel good without spending a lot.

In this series, we try to find the healthiest options in the supermarket for the best value - and have enlisted the help of  Sunna Van Kampen,  founder of Tonic Health ,  who went viral on social media for reviewing food in the search of healthier choices.

The series does not aim to identify the outright healthiest option, but to help you get better nutritional value for as little money as possible.

Today, we're looking at the breakfast staple - cereal. 

A sugar trap?

"Protein and good fats are what fill you up and satiate you to get your day going," Sunna says.

"Cereal unfortunately is a sugar and carb-heavy start which causes your blood sugar to spike and as a result you feel hungry way before lunch time."

A glance at the nutrition labels and you'll see the problem. 

"Some popular brands contain 35% sugar or up to 12g of sugar per 30g serving - that's already half of the daily recommended intake for children," Sunna says. 

That's before accounting for the fact that most people double up on recommended portion sizes. 

"According to research the average bowl weighs 73g rather than 30g suggested portion size - that means your child could be having their daily sugar quota for breakfast before school," Sunna says.

Healthier cereal choices

"The key to healthier cereal bowls is to ensure minimal sugar and maximum fibre - which is where options like Weetabix come to the forefront as a better option - at 4.2% sugar and 10% fibre," Sunna says. 

Among the main brands, this is hard to beat.

Frosties and Crunchy Nut don't fare well at 35% and 37% sugar respectively. Cornflakes at 8% and Coco Pops at 17% are better - but still high.

Alternative breakfasts

Greek yogurt:  "High in protein and packed with probiotics, Greek yogurt is my breakfast go to. Top it with some fresh berries and a sprinkle of seeds for an antioxidant boost."

Porridge:  "Oats are a great breakfast staple, offering a good dose of fibre, but context matters.

"It's great before a run or the gym but if you are just sitting at your desk all day it will spike your blood sugar and may be best to add more protein and fats to it. 

"Try adding peanut butter or protein powder for a more filling breakfast with more stable blood sugar."

Eggs:  "Boiled, poached, or scrambled, eggs are a protein-rich option that can keep you fuelled till lunch. Pair them with sourdough toast and you have possibly the most well-rounded value breakfast."

"Switching to these alternatives can drastically cut down your sugar intake and increase your energy levels."

We know cereal is a value-for-money and easy breakfast option, but let's have a closer look at the numbers. 

If we take the average cereal bowl at 73g, a cost per bowl looks like 50p for Crunchy Nut cereal and about 25p for the 250ml of milk that goes with it. 

"So, your daily breakfast is costing you 75p per day or £273.75 per year for the privilege of 9.3kg of sugar per year," Sunna says. 

In contrast, a typical medium free-range egg is 25p. 

Put three on a slice of sourdough (15p per slice) and an optimal breakfast has only cost you 90p a day or £328.5 a year. 

"So, you can swap over 18g of sugar every morning for over 18g of protein for just £54.75 extra per year," Sunna says. 

"A health investment, well worth the money."

However, if you want to stick with cereal - supermarket own-label brands are usually 60% cheaper than branded versions. 

Read more from this series... 

With the mortgage market proving more volatile than expected this year, and rates rising again, we're launching a feature providing an overview of the market at the end of each week - and outlining the best deals.

The independent experts at  Moneyfactscompare.co.uk  will be here every Friday. Commentary this week comes from their finance expert Rachel Springall, who has focused on the first-time buyer market...

Fixed-rate mortgages are once again on the rise, with many of the UK's biggest high-street lenders upping rates this week, including Santander, Halifax, Nationwide and NatWest. Lenders have been reacting to growing speculation that interest rates will remain higher for longer. 

Economists predict that the Bank of England will hold interest rates next Thursday but might cut base rate in the summer. Week on week, the overall average two- and five-year fixed rates rose to 5.91% and 5.49%.

This week the lowest two-year fix for first-time buyers with a 5% deposit comes from Loughborough Building Society, priced at 5.49%, which comes with a free valuation incentive and carries a £999 product fee.

First-time buyers with a 10% deposit will find the lowest two-year fixed rate offered by Clydesdale Bank, priced at 5.19%, which does not carry any incentives and charges a £1,499 product fee.

Those new buyers with a 5% deposit who want to fix for longer will find the lowest five-year fixed mortgage comes from The Co-operative Bank this week. Priced at 5.21%, this deal carries a £999 fee but borrowers get £250 in cashback and a free-valuation incentive.

Borrowers with a 10% deposit who wish to fix for five-years will find Clydesdale Bank offering the lowest rate this week priced at 4.64%, which charges a £1,499 fee but does not carry any incentives. 

As a first-time buyer, it's possible you have exhausted your savings on building up a 5% deposit and will use surplus cash to cover removal costs and legal fees. 

If you are looking to save on the upfront cost of your loan, then a Best Buy mortgage could be the most cost-effective choice.

This week one of the top packages on a two-year fixed mortgage comes from Coventry Building Society priced at 5.74% and HSBC priced at 5.79%, both of which come with a free valuation, but HSBC will also pay you £750 as cashback and Coventry Building Society will pay £500 in cashback.

A five-year fixed mortgage may be more appealing for you to guarantee your monthly repayments for longer. 

HSBC has a deal priced at 5.30% which carries a free valuation and £1,000 cashback, but if you want a lower rate, then Coventry Building Society is priced at 5.27%, and offers a free valuation and £500 cashback.

All data timestamped to 9am on 2 May

If you live in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland you don't have to pay for your NHS prescriptions - but in England they now cost £9.90 after a 25p rise this week.

Fee-free options remain in place for some, such as those who are pregnant, have certain disabilities, students or the elderly.

But if you're not exempt, there are still some means of cutting the costs of treatments.

Prepayment certificates

Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) cover NHS prescriptions over a given time period, no matter how many medicines you need.

There are two options: A three-month PPC (£32.05), which will start to save you money if you buy four or more prescriptions in that period, or a 12-month PPC (£114.50), which pays off if you buy 12 or more in a year.

Ask for a larger prescription

Doctors may agree to prescribe a longer course of medicine - such as two months' worth instead of one, halving the cost.

Just ask the question - they might say yes, especially if there's no danger of overuse.

Menopause medication

The NHS offers a particular PPC for hormone replacement therapy.

It lasts for 12 months and costs £19.80.

Women can use the PCC as many times as they need within the year.

You might not need a prescription

For some ailments, there are over-the-counter options sold cheaper than their prescribed alternative. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Pint-sized bottles of wine will be allowed on UK shelves from autumn under new post-Brexit trade rules - although doubts have been raised over their demand.

Seven changes to pre-packaged wine sizes are due to come into force on 19 September.

The move to introduce the 568ml size of wine, to sit alongside 200ml and 500ml measures already available, was announced in December and hailed by ministers as a Brexit "freedom".

Pint bottles of Champagne were sold in the UK before Britain joined the European Common Market and were on shelves until 1973.

Read more here ...

JD Sports has told head office staff they must return to the office at least four days a week .

The new amendment to the hybrid working policy will be effective from 1 July and will impact employees at the retail chain's head office in Bury, Retail Gazette reports.

However, the chain will still allow flexibly depending on individual roles.

Pubs could stay open late during the Euros this summer, according to The Sun .

Home Secretary James Cleverly hinted he was looking into extending pub opening hours for the tournament on The Sun show Never Mind The Ballots.

He said: "I will certainly look into it."

We've been bringing you news of plenty of bank switch deals offering free cash these past few months, but Virgin Money has a different kind of incentive for switchers - a 12% interest rate. 

People who switch to its M Account, M Plus Account or Club M Account will be able to get bonus interest rates of 10% gross/10.47% AER (fixed). 

This is on top of the 2% gross/2.02% AER (variable) interest rate already offered on current account balances up to £1,000 - meaning customers can get an interest rate of 12%. 

No other savings accounts offer interest rates this high, and the bonus applies for a year.

TikTok will restore millions of songs to its app after settling a royalty dispute with Universal Music Group. 

Users had been unable to make videos featuring songs from the likes of Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande due to a row over how much TikTok was paying. 

The fight had led to Universal withdrawing music from some of the world's most famous singers. 

The dispute appears to have been settled as the companies announced "improved remuneration" for artists.

More than 10,500 black cab drivers in London have launched a £250m legal case against Uber. 

They accuse the app of breaking the capital's taxi booking rules and deliberately misleading authorities to secure a licence. 

Transport for London (TfL) rules state drivers cannot take bookings directly from customers and must instead use a centralised system. 

The drivers, who are being advised by law firm Mishcon de Reya, argue they have faced unfair competition from Uber and that it knowingly broke these rules. 

Uber has denied these allegations and said the claims are unfounded.

The company has faced numerous challenges in London, including refusals from TfL to renew its licence which were later successfully appealed. 

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Prop Farm: Head-to-head markets full of opportunity at TPC Craig Ranch

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The first Saturday in May is like a holiday in Las Vegas. It begins with some mint juleps and the running of the Kentucky Derby, followed by a prize fight later that evening. On the PGA TOUR we have a couple more races before the second major championship of the season tees off at Valhalla Golf Club - also in Kentucky, but on the third Thursday in May.

For the second straight week, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is not in the field. Even with THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson being not far from Scheffler's hometown of Dallas, the PGA Championship favorite remains in waiting on the birth of his first child. It is not, however, stopping the bettors from backing him at the window.

Scheffler to sweep all four major championships this season began at +8000. That dropped to +5000 after he won the Masters and down to +4000 after winning the very next week at Harbour Town Golf Links.

"(Scheffler) to complete the Grand Slam has been extremely popular for the punters at +4000 especially after he won the RBC Heritage,” said Tristan Davis, senior manager at Mandalay Bay Race and Sportsbook. "Handle has dropped since he did not play last week or this week's tournament, but I’m sure the next time he goes, the popularity of the market will come back.”

Noted Las Vegas oddsmaker Jeff Sherman concurred. "We're not seeing much at this time for the PGA Championship, but bettors continue to play the Grand Slam (prop) due to the low risk, high reward, said Sherman. "All public/recreational play.”

As far as this week's event, it is the fourth consecutive season that TPC Craig Ranch has played host to the long-standing PGA TOUR event, honoring the late, great Texas golfer, Byron Nelson. Sherman pointed out what he has seen so far.

"Byeong Hun An is getting support from the public and Tom Hoge is getting support from the sharps in the outright market," Sherman said.

Tom Hoge's dialed-in approach leads to birdie at RBC Heritage

"It's a split decision in terms of handle between Si Woo Kim and Jordan Spieth (+1600) with just over 20% of handle between them," added Davis from the Mandalay Bay perspective. "Not far behind we have seen good support for Tom Hoge and Min Woo Lee who are both at +2800.”

Sherman too is seeing public support for Kim. "The public is on Si Woo Kim to finish top 20," he said. Kim is a Dallas resident and finished runner-up here last year. As far as sharp play in the Finish Position market, Sherman noted a name taking action that we seem to hear from every week. "The sharps are on Keith Mitchell for a top-20." Mitchell is yet to miss a cut at TPC Craig Ranch but in three tries, while his highest finish is 26th.

Senior data analyst at BetMGM, Drew O'Dell, is seeing action on Mitchell and Kim in a different market. "Keith Mitchell and Si Woo Kim are both responsible for 3.2% of the ticket count to be First Round Leader," said O'Dell before adding, "Only Spieth, Alex Noren and defending champion Jason Day are higher in ticket count percentage in that market."

A similar split in the outright winner market too. "Spieth, Hoge and Kim have the highest ticket count percentages to win it, noted O'Dell. "But our biggest liability is slightly different with Hoge leading the way, followed by Spieth and Jake Knapp."

When transitioning to the tournament head-to-head matchup market, Davis listed four that are garnering attention at Mandalay Bay. "On the sharp side of things we have some tournament matchups that have been well supported: Sungjae Im to beat Min Woo Lee, -110 into -120, Justin Lower to beat Sam Stevens, -125 to -135, Jhonattan Vegas to beat Vincent Norrman, -110 to -120, and Garrick Higgo to beat Ryo Hisatsune, +120 to +105,” Davis said. “All has been sharp money."

Personally, I played two head-to-head tournament matchups at BetMGM. Adam Schenk (-105) to beat Hoge and Noren (+100) to beat Spieth. Those prices remain unchanged.

For outright winners this week, I played Noren, An, Schenk, Mackenzie Hughes and Maverick McNealy. I'm counting on it being a five-horse race when they come down the stretch on this first Saturday in May - and of course, on into Sunday as well.

For resources to overcome a gambling problem, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER today.