There’s something kind of indescribable about the holiday season, and Christmas in particular brings a special magic that makes us want to find meaningful ways to spend time with loved ones. One of our favorite holiday traditions is going to Christmas markets, and France has a few that look as if they’ve been lifted from the pages of a storybook.
If your holiday plans include European travel or you’re feeling up for a last-minute adventure, here are the markets we recommend checking out—and be sure to grab a cup of mulled wine, while you’re at it.
Colmar
Colmar is a small town located near the German border, and its fairytale-like quality is only enhanced by the annual Christmas market. Or, technically speaking, six Christmas markets. Every week from late November through December features a different theme ranging from food to decorations to a dedicated children’s market.
Eguisheim
Located in the historical region of Alsace, Eguisheim hosts an annual Christmas market with a focus on tradition. Stalls offer products made by local artists and craftspeople as well as food and beverages sourced from the region.
Strasbourg
Known by locals as Christkindelsmärik, the Strasbourg Christmas Market is the oldest and largest in France. It includes over 300 stalls and thousands of lights centered around one of the country’s most magnificent cathedrals.