Christmas Markets in Strasbourg, Colmar, and Sarlat-la-Canéda
As the beautiful country of France enters into the magical weather of winter, it gets all decked up with decorations, festive cheer and most importantly Christmas markets. Out of all the fascinating markets that you can see in France, the Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda & Strasbourg Christmas Market stand out. Right from the delightful twinkling lights to the traditional markets and a festive ambience, these destinations promise a Christmas vacation that will cherish for a very long time. So, grab your France tourist visa and read this guide to enjoy the best of the Christmas markets in the France!
Why Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda & Strasbourg Christmas Market are Popular in France?
The Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda and the Strasbourg are some amazing cities in the France that are best known for their Christmas markets. Visitors from all around the world including the UK love going to France to see these markets thanks to its beautiful displays and an amazing festive atmosphere.
Whether it is the magical lights, the sounds or the aroma, these highlights of the Christmas markets will captivate just about any one!
You will be amazed to know that the Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the oldest in the France. In fact, it dates back all the way to the 1570. Located in the heart of the Alsace, this charming city is popularly called the “Capital of Christmas”.
The Colmar which is also in the Alsace region is another amazing place with beautiful markets. During the festive time, you will love seeing the unique architecture and the magic of Christmas. This place also has an old time that will make you feel like you have stepped into a fairytale. That is because, when you go to see the Colmar, you will come across beautiful streets that are cobblestoned, timber-frame houses and captivating displays of light decorations.
Then there is the Sarlat-la-Canéda which is another wonderful place boasting a fascinating Christmas market. You will find this city in the Dordogne region boasting a beautiful combination of holiday delight and history that is rich. You will also feel quite happy seeing the medieval streets and the beautiful ambience. These give you the perfect backdrop to celebrate Christmas and explore the wonderful markets. All you need to do is book a France visa appointment to kick start your Christmas celebrations!
Dates of Christmas Markets in France
Although the date of the Christmas is 25th of December, most of the Christmas markets across the Europe, including the France start quite early. Some start in the month of November and go on till before the Christmas. On the other hand, some markets stay open after Christmas till the New Year and even beyond that. So, make sure to keep the dates of the Christmas markets in mind while planning your trip to the France!
Strasbourg Christmas Market Dates 2024
The Christmas market of the Strasbourg city is all set to begin from the 24th of November. During the initial days, the markets will open from 2pm and will close at 9 pm. However, from late November to December, the markets will open from 11.30 am and will close at 9 pm. On the last day of the market, i.e., 24th of December, the markets will open at 11.30 am and close at 6 pm. Note these dates and opening hours to plan your visit to the Strasbourg.
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Colmar Christmas Market Dates 2024
The Christmas market of the Colmar city will begin from the 26th of November and go on till 29th of December. The timings of this market are divided according to the weekdays and weekends. So, from Monday to the Thursday, the market will be open from 11 am to 7 pm. But, from Friday to the Saturday, the market will open from 10 am to 5 pm. However, for the 24th of December, the markets will be open from 10 am to 5 pm. And on 25th and 26th December, the markets will stay open from 11 am and close on 7 pm.
Sarlat-la-Canéda Christmas Market Dates 2024
The Christmas Market of Sarlat-la-Canéda will begin from 4th December and will stay open till 31st of December 2024. This market is one of the most popular marketplaces in the Dordogne region. You will find this market at the Place de la Grande Rigaudie and Place du 14 Juillet. When you go to see this market, you will come across 40 wooden chalets that will be selling a lot of things. Apart from this, there are entertainment options and activities for the kids!
Things to Do in Christmas Markets France
While planning to go to see the markets of Christmas in France, you will come across different types of activities, attractions and shopping opportunities. However, choosing which ones to actually go to or what to buy can become quite confusing. Also, if you are travelling with your loved ones, then you will want them to enjoy the best of experience. So, Fret not! This guide will share all the best things that you can do when you go these Christmas markets in Strasbourg, Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda.
What to do in Strasbourg Markets at Christmas?
When the Christmas arrives, the city of Strasbourg transforms into a stunning wonderland. One of the best places that you should go to see during your stay in Strasbourg is the Christkindelsmärik. This happens to be one of the oldest Christmas markets in dating all the way back to the year 1570. Here, you will find a variety of stalls that will sell local crafts, delicious food and traditional Christmas items.
Other amazing places are the Place Kleber Market and the OFF Christmas market. The Place Kleber is one of the largest markets in Strasbourg and features around 130 stands. The OFF Christmas market is located in the Place Grimmeisen that sells gifts made from recycled materials.
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Can I Explore Strasbourg Christmas market with kids?
Yes, the Christmas market of Strasbourg has a variety of activities for kids. One of the best places to take your kids to, is the Children’s village. You will find this place at the Place Saint Thomas. This place provides a variety of hands-on activities like decorating the cookies, playing board games, making paper stars and more.
Apart from this, you can also take your kids to the Advent Village (Square Louise Weiss), Funfair Games at the Marché OFF!
What to do in Colmar Markets at Christmas?
The charming city of the Colmar is France boasts a whopping six Christmas markets. These are spread across beautiful locations and each market has its own interesting theme.
These markets are the Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d’Arc, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Koïfhus (Indoor Market), Marche Gourmand and the Petite Venise.
Each market boasts unique offerings and an ambience that you will fall in love with. The Place des Dominicains features a picturesque square where you will find a variety of local crafts and ornaments . On the other hand , the Place Jeanne d’Arc market focus on the terroir and traditions of the region. Therefore, you will find a variety of artisanal crafts and regional delicacies like chocolate covered fruits.
Then there is the Place de l’Ancienne Douane which has a fun atmosphere. This market usually has a toy theme and boasts kiddie rides. Your kids will have a lovely time exploring this market in Colmar!
What to do in Sarlat-la-Canéda Markets at Christmas?
The charming Sarlat-la-Canéda with its fascinating Christmas market is another amazing place that you will love seeing.
This market will have around 400 wooden stalls which are also called as chalets. Here, you will find a wide range of goods which include handcrafted items, jewelry, clothes and much more.
Apart from this, you can enjoy a variety of activities like ice skating, activities for the children and magical Christmas storytelling on 24th December.
Want to see all these wonderful Christmas markets? Then start your Christmas holiday preparations by apply for France Visa from UK today!
Special Foods at Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda & Strasbourg Christmas Market
Starting with the Strasbourg, where you can relish a variety of delightful foods. These include the Bretzels which are essentially soft pretzels. Then, there is the Choucroute Garnie which is a mouth-watering sauerkraut. Apart from this, you can also try the Tarte Flambée, Mannele and the Vin Chaud which is mulled wine.
If you are going to see the Colmar, then you should try the traditional Pain d’Épices. It is a traditional spiced gingerbread which is made from honey and different kinds of spices. Apart from this, you should also relish the Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche) which is a thin-crust dish with delightful toppings. Aside from this, you should also take some time out to try the Foie Gras, Kougelhopf and the Bredele.
However, if you are planning to visit the Sarlat-la-Canéda, then you should first try the famous truffles, especially the black truffles. The local wines of this place are also really great and are sourced from the nearby vineyards. Apart from this, you can also check out the Chestnuts and the Gourmet Pâtés and Terrines.
Conclusion
The Colmar, Sarlat-la-Canéda and the Strasbourg Christmas Market are amazing places of interest that offer a ton of attractions, activities and festive atmosphere. This allows just about anyone to go to the France and enjoy all these amazing tourist spots with their friends or family. But, in order to ensure a hassle-free trip to the France, get your France Visa UK in advance. Once you have the visa for France, you can easily travel to the France and enjoy a memorable vacation exploring the best Christmas markets of the France!
FAQs
The doors to the Strasbourg Christmas Market will be thrown open daily from 11.30 AM to 8 PM. However, these time may vary during the weekdays and the weekends . So, plan your trip accordingly to have a wonderful time exploring the captivating Christmas markets of the Strasbourg.
Yes, you will find a variety of special events in the Colmar during the Christmas at markets of Christmas. You can choose to take part in the different types of events which usually include the workshops, concerts and guided tours .
Yes, the Christmas markets at Colmar, Strasbourg and Sarlat-la-Canéda boast a good variety of vegetarian dishes. These will typically include pastries, cheeses, and the vegetable dishes. Just make sure to check with the restaurant of cafe owner before ordering the dishes .
Yes, you will find that there several parking areas near the Sarlat-la-Canéda Christmas Market. However, many travellers advise to reach the market as early as possible . This will allow you to find a place to park your vehicle without much hassle.
Yes the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, Colmar, and Sarlat-la-Canéda are easily accessible for most people. In fact, when you go to this market with your specially abled friend or family member, you will be quite happy to see ramps and facilities for visitors that will facilitate easy movement.
