Best Christmas Markets in France by Train: A Festive Rail-Based Winter Round-Up

Strasbourg in December

France may not be as internationally famous for Christmas markets as Germany, but its best winter markets are atmospheric, regional and wonderfully varied — from fairy-tale Alsace villages to Atlantic port cities and wine-loving eastern towns. Best of all, many of France’s most charming Christmas markets are easily reached by train, making them ideal for a festive weekend escape without a car. This guide rounds up the best Christmas markets in France, explains what makes each special, when to go, what to eat, and how to combine them by rail.

Why Visit Christmas Markets in France?

French Christmas markets feel more local and less commercial than some of their European neighbours. They focus on regional food, wine, craftsmanship and tradition, often set against medieval old towns, half-timbered houses or cathedral squares. Expect fewer novelty stalls, more artisanal products, and a strong sense of place.

What to Expect

Most French Christmas markets run from late November until just before Christmas, with some extending into early January. Markets are busiest at weekends and in the early evening. Food stalls, mulled wine, regional sweets and handcrafted gifts dominate, with choirs, lights and small performances adding atmosphere rather than spectacle.

Top Christmas Markets in France (All Easy by Train)

Strasbourg – The Classic (and Still the Best)

Often called the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg hosts multiple markets spread across its historic centre.

Why it’s special: Half-timbered houses, cathedral backdrop, strong Alsatian traditions.

Don’t miss: Place de la Cathédrale, Petite France, and the Christkindelsmärik.

Food to try: Flammekueche, bredele biscuits, mulled white wine.

By train: Paris → Strasbourg in ~1h50 by TGV.

Colmar – Fairy-Tale Perfection

Smaller and more intimate than Strasbourg, Colmar feels like stepping into a snow globe.

Why it’s special: Canals, pastel houses, candlelit stalls.

Don’t miss: Markets in Petite Venise and Place des Dominicains.

Food to try: Munster cheese dishes, kougelhopf.

By train: Strasbourg → Colmar in 35 minutes (easy combo trip).

Reims – Christmas with Champagne

A refined, elegant market set beneath a Gothic cathedral.

Why it’s special: Champagne tastings alongside festive stalls.

Don’t miss: Cathedral light projections and artisan food stalls.

Food & drink: Champagne, biscuits roses, regional cheeses.

By train: Paris → Reims in ~45 minutes.

Dijon – Wine, Mustard & Medieval Streets

Under-the-radar and very local.

Why it’s special: Gastronomy-led stalls and Burgundian wines.

Don’t miss: Owl Trail decorations and covered food halls.

Food to try: Burgundy beef dishes, pain d’épices.

By train: Paris → Dijon in ~1h35.

Amiens – Cathedral Light Shows & Northern Warmth

One of northern France’s most atmospheric markets.

Why it’s special: Huge Gothic cathedral backdrop with evening illuminations.

Don’t miss: Local crafts and seasonal sweets.

Food to try: Hot waffles, regional sausages.

By train: Paris → Amiens in ~1h10.

Montbéliard – A Hidden Gem

Less known internationally but very authentic.

Why it’s special: Strong Germanic traditions, family-friendly atmosphere.

Don’t miss: Lantern processions and artisan toys.

Food to try: Smoked sausages, spiced cakes.

By train: Paris → Belfort → Montbéliard (~2h45).

Food Culture at French Christmas Markets

French Christmas markets are heavily food-driven. Expect regional specialities rather than generic snacks, often reflecting local agriculture and winter traditions.

Christmas Market Food Explained

• Vin Chaud: Mulled red or white wine with spices

• Pain d’Épices: Honey-based spiced bread

• Bredele: Alsatian Christmas biscuits

• Raclette & Tartiflette: Alpine winter comfort food

• Waffles & Crêpes: Especially in northern regions

How to Plan a Christmas Market Weekend by Train

Best strategy: Choose one main city + one smaller nearby town.

Great combinations:• Strasbourg + Colmar• Paris + Reims• Dijon + Beaune• Lille + Arras

Trains run frequently, even in winter, and city centres are walkable from stations.

Off the Beaten Track Tips

• Visit markets weekday afternoons for fewer crowds• Explore neighbourhood markets, not just main squares• Stay slightly outside the historic centre for better value• Combine markets with museums or cathedral visits during the day

Perfect Long Weekend Itinerary (Example: Alsace)

Day 1:Paris → Strasbourg. Afternoon market stroll. Evening mulled wine.

Day 2:Morning train to Colmar. Lunch and markets. Return to Strasbourg for dinner.

Day 3:Cathedral visit, final shopping, return home by train.

How to Get There by Train

France’s high-speed network makes Christmas market hopping easy:

• Paris → Strasbourg: ~1h50

• Paris → Reims: ~45 min

• Paris → Dijon: ~1h35

• Paris → Lille: ~1h

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