Follow this part of the trail
30 articles
The Foire aux Santons is a cherished Advent tradition at Marseille's Vieux-Port. This guide covers its history, what to expect, the Santons de Provence label, and where to buy handmade figurines both at the fair and year-round in the region.
Sprawled across five historic squares in the city center, the Metz Christmas market combines chalet stalls with riverfront illuminations, a gourmet market, and the dedicated Lanterns Walk in Square Boufflers.
Nancy's Christmas market is really a Saint-Nicolas market, celebrating Lorraine's patron saint from late November to early January. Discover the Grand Village on Place Charles III, gourmet hamlets, the parade, and the videomapping on Place Stanislas.
Discover the Orléans Christmas market at Place du Martroi: its typical season, family-friendly attractions like the Ferris wheel and ice rink, and practical tips for a smooth visit. While the exact dates vary each year, the market traditionally runs from late November to late December—check the official city website for confirmation.
The Strasbourg Christmas Market runs from late November to Christmas Eve. The most recent edition took place in 2025, with daily hours from 11:30 am to 9 pm, except on Christmas Eve when it closed at 6 pm. For the upcoming edition, dates are expected to be similar, but official confirmation is pending.
Strasbourg's Christmas market, known as the Christkindelsmärik, transforms the city each Advent. Explore the multiple squares, from the historic Place Broglie to the lively Place Kléber, and get practical tips for navigating crowds, savoring Alsatian treats, and making the most of your visit.
Plan a winter trip to Troyes with this practical guide to the Marché de Noël. Learn where it takes place, typical opening hours, family activities, and how to combine the market with the city's historic sights and outlet shopping.
Each year Troyes transforms its historic center into a Christmas village of wooden chalets in late November through late December. Learn the typical opening hours, what to expect from the parades and children's activities, and how to confirm current details before you go.
Braga transforms into a festive scene each winter with lights, a Christmas market on Avenida Central, parades, and concerts. Learn what to expect—from the seasonal dates and locations to free and paid attractions—so you can plan a relaxed holiday visit to this historic Portuguese city.
Funchal’s festive season bursts into life on December 1 when the downtown Christmas lights are switched on. Explore the Funchal Christmas Market and Avenida Arriaga market for local crafts and treats like Bolo de Mel and Poncha. Experience traditions like Missa do Galo and Janeiras, and enjoy the island’s mild winter climate.
Bastia glows in winter with its old-town Christmas market, seasonal Corsican treats, and scenic coastal walks. This guide covers the Terra Vechja market, winter foods like brocciu and figatellu, heritage sites, shopping streets, and practical advice for a festive break. Always confirm current dates and openings with the tourist office.
Discover the Besançon Christmas Market in Franche-Comté: when it typically runs, where it takes place at Place Granvelle, what crafts and foods you'll find, and how to enjoy it with family.
