France’s Christmas Markets Begin Opening: What UK Travellers Should Know for 2025
Planning a festive getaway from the UK? Discover the best Christmas markets across France in 2025, with dates, travel tips and must-visit towns from Strasbourg to Normandy.
The first Christmas markets of the 2025 season are now opening across France, with towns in Alsace, Normandy and the Paris region launching their festive programmes earlier than usual. From Strasbourg’s historic Christkindelsmärik to smaller village markets beginning on 15th November, the season is officially underway.
This year is expected to see a sharp rise in UK visitors as ferry routes, Eurostar connections and regional flights all report strong early bookings. Northern markets such as Lille, Arras, Rouen and Amiens remain the most accessible for short trips, while Brittany and Normandy continue to grow in popularity for easy weekend breaks.
For a full list of the biggest markets, updated 2025 dates, and the best ways to travel from the UK, see our dedicated guide:
Christmas Markets 2025: A UK Traveller’s Guide to the Best Festive Breaks in France.
More regional updates will be published as new Christmas market dates are confirmed throughout November and early December.
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