Imagine walking under strings of twinkling lights that have turned centuries-old town squares into a glowing stage. All around, the scent of roasted chestnuts roasting on an open fire mingles with the sweet aroma of mulled wine and treats made of gingerbread and chocolate. For families traveling with young kids, these markets are more than a festive detour — they’re a chance to step right into a holiday storybook.
After visiting more than 30 Christmas markets in Europe, I can help you plan your journey through five of France’s most magical and “Hallmarkesk” Christmas markets: Strasbourg, Colmar, Reims, Metz and Nantes.
Specific dates are for 2025
Strasbourg: The Capital of Christmas
If France were to have a leading role in the Christmas market story, Strasbourg is it. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” its Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets. Running from late November through December 24 , the city transforms into a glowing wonderland with over 300 wooden chalets (or stalls) spread across eight themed markets across the city .
I recommend starting at Place Kléber, where you’ll find a Christmas tree that towers over 30 meters tall, stealing the show. My children love the carousels, ice rinks and the numerous stalls with sweets, while I enjoy sipping on a steaming cup of vin chaud as we wander through the markets. The market is busiest on weekends, so I recommend scheduling a visit during weekday mornings. This time is best for families with little ones who prefer fewer crowds or those trying to navigate with a stroller.
Must-try bite: Tarte flambée — Alsace’s pizza-like flatbread with cream, onions and bacon. Kids devour it.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Skip the airport stress — Lyft’s On-Time Pickup Promise guarantees your scheduled ride shows up within 10 minutes of your pickup time. If it doesn’t? You’ll get Lyft Cash. You can schedule up to 90 days in advance and even lock in your rate. Use code SBT25 to save 25% off ONE scheduled ride to the airport.
Colmar: A Fairytale Village Come to Life
The next stop on our Christmas Market Hallmark trip is only 40 minutes from Strasbourg. Colmar feels like stepping straight into a snow globe. Its pastel half-timbered houses and canals of “Little Venice” glow under Christmas lights, and the town hosts six themed markets running from Late November until December 29.
Starting at The Petite Venise, where little ones can mail letters directly to Père Noël (Santa Claus). Stalls brim with toys, ornaments and gingerbread, while puppet shows and rides keep your youngest travelers enchanted. For parents, Colmar is also part of the Alsace Wine Route , so while the kids marvel at nativity scenes, you can sneak in a glass of Riesling.
Must-try bite: Pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread) — sweet, fragrant and the perfect pocket snack.
Let us inspire your travels! Sign up for our newsletter now.
Reims: Christmas Sparkle in Champagne Country
If Strasbourg is history and Colmar is a fairytale, Reims is the champagne sparkle with a festive twist. This market is the third largest Christmas market in France, which is just a short 45-minute commute. Hosted from late November to late December, the Reims Christmas Market spreads across Place d’Erlon , with nearly 150 stalls nestled in the heart of Champagne country.
Families can sip on hot chocolate or champagne for the grown-ups while kids marvel at the glittering light projection show cast onto the magnificent Reims Cathedral, known as the Church of Kings. The cathedral itself is a UNESCO site and a spectacular backdrop for carols and light shows.
Reims is especially kid-friendly because the markets are smaller and easier to navigate than Strasbourg, yet still full of atmosphere. Parents can indulge in regional specialties like biscuits roses de Reims or a glass of bubbly, while little ones nibble on crêpes and roasted chestnuts.
Must-try bite: Biscuits roses de Reims — pink sponge biscuits, perfect dipped in hot chocolate (or champagne for the adults).
Metz: Lights on the Moselle
In Metz, Lorraine’s riverside gem, Christmas markets stretch across the city center, giving families plenty of variety. Running from November 21 to December 30, the festivities include markets at Place Saint-Louis, Place de la République and Place d’Armes, each offering something unique.
The Ferris wheel is set up near the cathedral, which gives sweeping views of the Christmas lights below. The town is also famous for its Sentier des Lanternes, a lantern-lit walking path that feels straight out of a fairytale — little ones will be mesmerized.
Must-try bite: Waffles dusted with powdered sugar — simple, sweet, and guaranteed to keep kids happy.
Nantes: Christmas by the Loire
On France’s western edge, Nantes offers one of the country’s largest Christmas markets in Western France. Running from late November through December 24, the market unfolds in Place Royale and Place du Commerce, with about 120 stalls.
Here, families will find a delightful mix of French traditions with a maritime twist. Young travelers are drawn to the merry-go-rounds, puppet shows, and street performers scattered throughout the squares. Parents will appreciate the mix of artisanal crafts and gourmet stalls showcasing specialties from Brittany and the Loire Valley.
Must-try bite: Kouign-amann — a buttery, caramelized Breton pastry that pairs perfectly with a warm cup of cocoa.
Practical Tips for Families
- Timing: Markets generally run from late November until Christmas Eve or just after, with Strasbourg and Metz extending through Dec 30–31.
- Crowds: Try to plan visiting on weekday mornings to avoid stroller gridlock. Evenings and weekends are the busiest. If you usually travel with a stroller for your kids, consider switching to a backpack carrier – you’ll thank me later, trust me!
- Weather: Bundle up — temperatures often dip below freezing in Alsace and Lorraine.
- Cash: Carry euros for quick purchases, especially for food or small souvenirs. You can use your cards, but I suggest bringing cash for convenience.
- Pace Yourself: When traveling with smaller children, balance the festive strolling with indoor breaks. Cathedrals, cafés and museums make cozy stops for warming up.
From the storybook streets of Alsace to the champagne bubbles of Reims, the lantern-lit paths of Metz and the Loire Valley sparkle of Nantes, France’s Christmas markets offer something truly magical for families. With festive food, twinkling lights and history at every corner, these markets don’t just feel like a Hallmark movie — they let you live in one.
Leave a Reply