From the first weeks of November, some French cities light up, wooden chalets are set up, and the atmosphere transforms : the Christmas markets are open. For travelers seeking emotions, discoveries, craftsmanship, and delicious specialties, it’s the perfect time for a getaway.
Here is an overview presented by OIQIA of the most beautiful Christmas markets of 2025 : their opening dates, their unique features, and a few tips to make the most of them.
Christmas markets are no longer limited to the Advent period. Several cities now open them as early as mid-November, or even the beginning of November. For example, the 2025 market directory indicates that the Paris La Défense Christmas market will run from Thursday, November 13 to Sunday, December 28, 2025.
The trend is clear: online sources note that “Christmas villages and markets are opening this November in Paris, Rennes, Marseille, Lille, Bordeaux…”
For travelers, planning a getaway in late November or early December is an excellent opportunity : the festive atmosphere is already there, but the peak holiday crowds haven’t started yet.
2025 dates : from November 26 to December 24.
With nearly 300 chalets, the cathedral, the illuminated streets, and a medieval atmosphere, Strasbourg remains the iconic Christmas market.
=> Why go ? For its authentic Christmas magic, Alsatian craftsmanship, and the charm of the Alsace region.
2025 dates : from November 25 to December 29.
Colmar is Christmas magic in its purest form : shimmering canals, beautifully decorated half-timbered houses, the scents of spices and mulled wine, and enchanting lights…
The city turns into a real postcard setting. Its six themed Christmas markets : craftsmanship, treats, decorations, local creations, offer a warm atmosphere unlike any other.
=> Travel tip : Combine your market visits with a stroll through the old town and a small boat ride along the canals of Little Venice, a must to capture all the poetry of Colmar in winter.
Where to stay in Colmar ? Good news ! OIQIA offers several accommodations ideally located to fully enjoy the markets, car-free and with total freedom. Among them : Le Riedheim and L’Épicure, available in our catalog !
These beautiful apartments allow you to live in Colmar like a local… while being just steps away from the Christmas lights and chalet stalls.
2025 dates : from November 19 to December 30.
On the Grand’Place and Place Rihour, Lille sets up its 90 chalets, its iconic Ferris wheel, the scent of warm waffles, and the festive atmosphere typical of the North.
At nightfall, the Flemish façades light up, the streets come alive, and the city transforms into a magical setting where families, friends, and travelers are carried away by the Christmas spirit.
It’s ideal for a weekend getaway, easily accessible from Belgium, London, or anywhere in northern France.
Where to stay in Lille ? To fully enjoy the markets and the decorated city, OIQIA has exactly what you need, choose one of our beautiful downtown accommodations : Le Panoramique and L’Élégance, allowing you to stay just a few minutes’ walk from the Christmas market.
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Book your winter getaway with OIQIA and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Christmas ahead of time…
Discover Le Parisien in Neuilly-sur-Seine, or explore our selection of accommodations in Toulouse, including the must-see New Yorker and Tolosa.
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• Arrive early in the season : the festive atmosphere is already there… but not the crowds stepping on your feet as if it were a mulled-wine version of Black Friday.
• When it comes to accommodation, aim for the city center : it’s always better to be close to where you’re staying than to cross the city shivering like a penguin.
• Ideal plan : market + old town + local specialties. Yes, eating a tartiflette at 4 p.m. “just to try it”… is absolutely part of the experience.
• Prepare for the cold : hat, gloves, scarf… and above all, plan for regular “mulled wine / boiling tea / XXL hot chocolate” breaks to keep both your fingers and your mood warm.
• Transport and schedules : some streets become pedestrian-only in the evening. Translation: avoid ending up stuck with two bags of pretzels in each hand, take the metro or the bus for a smooth trip back !
The most magical Christmas markets in France will open as early as November 2025: a perfect opportunity to travel, feel the festive spirit, share moments, and explore.
Whether in Strasbourg, Colmar, Lille, or Paris… each city offers its own unique atmosphere.
Put on your coat, ring the bells, and go experience the magic of Christmas, festive chalets and all, in an enchanting setting.
OIQIA is here to accompany you with its warm accommodations in or near the Christmas markets.
Book your winter adventure and let yourself be carried away…
Discover our full catalog here : I’m booking !
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