Experience the magic of winter
The holidays are here and what better way to enjoy it than by checking out the Christmas markets with your family and friends? There are many places to visit so we’ve narrowed it down to the top five must-see markets — let’s carpool there!
Nantes: Place Royale and Place du Commerce
While the tradition of Christmas markets doesn’t run as deep in the west of France, Nantes has managed to shine in this region. With more than 100 chalets occupied by 80 artisans and 30 gourmet stands, Nantes’ Christmas market is the largest in Western France. If you’re more of a traditional foodie, you’ll definitely enjoy the mulled wine and raclette. But make sure to branch out and try the local products such as Loire wine and oriental specialities. For the little ones, there is also a Santa Claus house on the weekends.
Tip: Use the savings from travelling with BlaBlaCar to splurge on a giant Nantes cake with rum and almonds to share with family and friends!
Visit the Christmas market in Nantes.
Montbéliard: Saint-Martin Temple
Similar to other famous Christmas markets in eastern France, the Montbéliard market is authentic and artisanal. You will find more than 150 artisans, most from the region of Franche-Comté, but also from other areas of France and Europe. For the children, they can create decorations at the Atelier of Christmas Elves.
And don’t forget to check out the pride of the town market: the lights that illuminate the city every night until Christmas Eve.
Tip: Use the savings from travelling with BlaBlaCar to get the Audincourt’s croque rave pie, which is made with ham, chicken and special cheese from the region. It’s a great way to taste the Montbéliard cuisine!
Visit the Christmas market in Montbéliard.
Strasbourg: Cathedral Square and its surroundings
Home to the oldest and largest Christmas market in France, Strasbourg remains faithful to its reputation every year. The tradition of the Christmas market dates to the Middle Ages. At the time, the Klausenmärik, or St. Nicholas’ market, consisted of distributing gifts to children.
Today, however, children’s presents have given way to the scent of hot wine and traditional Alsatian decorations of stuffed storks. This is great market to buy ornaments and gifts. With more than 300 chalets throughout the city center, there is no doubt that you will walk away with something.
Tip: Use your savings from travelling with BlaBlaCar to taste a delicious warm pretzel and a flammekeuche (a thin-crust pizza special to the region).
Visit the Christmas market in Strasbourg.
Reims: Cathedral Square and Palace of Tau
The city welcomes more than 140 exhibitors specialising in crafts, gastronomy and home decor. For the 20th annual celebration of Reims’ Christmas market, make sure to check out the jewelers, ceramists and embroiderers who will exhibit their work in the craftsmen village. And Santa is waiting for the kids at the Palace of Tau to take photos.
Tip: With the savings from travelling with BlaBlaCar get a box of Reims’ special pink biscuits!
Visit the Christmas market in Reims.
Paris: Champs-Elysées
An emblem for the city of Paris and for the end-of-year celebrations, the Christmas market on the Champs-Elysées is a great place to visit for locals and tourists alike. Located on the most beautiful avenue in the world, the market features 180 chalets offering up crafts, gifts and food. It’s also a great opportunity for children to visit the ice skating rink and enjoy the rides.
Tip: Use your savings from travelling to Paris on BlaBlaCar to indulge on waffles and hot chocolate at the Champs-Elysées Christmas market!
Visit the Champs-Elysées Christmas market.
Want to surround yourself with the magic of Christmas? Visit a Christmas markets with BlaBlaCar!
