©Amiens accueille le plus grand marché de Noël au Nord de la France avec de nombreux chalets, des manèges dont une grande roue, une patinoire, et de nombreuses illuminations dans les rues et devant l'hotel de ville. Saison : Hiver - Lieu : Amiens, Somme, Picardie, Hauts-de-France, France. Amiens hosts the largest Christmas market in the North of France with many chalets, rides including a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and many illuminations in the streets and in front of the city hall. Season: Winter - Location: Amiens, Somme, Picardy, Hauts-de-France, France.|CRTC Hauts-de-France - Stéphane BOUILLAND
Christmas markets
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Christmas markets

As winter settles in, Northern France begins to sparkle. Wooden chalets glow with fairy lights, the air fills with the scent of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, crêpes and waffles, and town squares transform into festive gathering places. It’s the perfect moment to plan a seasonal getaway and soak up the unmistakable charm of French Christmas markets, just across the Channel.

From grand cities to elegant seaside resorts, Christmas markets pop up across the region, each with its own atmosphere — intimate or lively, traditional or spectacular. Whether you travel by Eurostar or by car, you’ll find plenty of reasons to linger.

Easy winter escapes by train

Lille Christmas Market

Less than 90 minutes from London by direct Eurostar, Lille hosts one of the most popular Christmas markets in Hauts-de-France. Set in the heart of the city, the market combines festive shopping with classic winter attractions: a glittering big wheel, a traditional carousel, live music and carol concerts.

Around 90 wooden chalets showcase handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations and regional specialities, making it an ideal stop for a festive city break with a strong dose of French atmosphere.

Arras Christmas Market

At Christmas, the Baroque Grand’Place of Arras becomes a fairytale setting. Surrounded by beautifully illuminated Flemish-style façades, the Village de Noël brings together more than 60 chalets in one of Northern France’s most elegant squares.

Wandering here feels timeless — a blend of architecture, twinkling lights and independent shop windows that invite you to slow down and enjoy the season.

©Amiens accueille le plus grand marché de Noël au Nord de la France avec de nombreux chalets, des manèges dont une grande roue, une patinoire, et de nombreuses illuminations dans les rues et devant l'hotel de ville. Saison : Hiver - Lieu : Amiens, Somme, Picardie, Hauts-de-France, France. Amiens hosts the largest Christmas market in the North of France with many chalets, rides including a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and many illuminations in the streets and in front of the city hall. Season: Winter - Location: Amiens, Somme, Picardy, Hauts-de-France, France.|Hauts-de-France Tourisme - Stéphane Bouilland
©Illuminations et chalets du marché de Noël à Amiens - Manèges, Grande roue, vitrines, décorations aux couleurs de Noël. Saison : Hiver - Lieu : Amiens, Somme, Picardie, Hauts-de-France, France.|CRTC Hauts-de-France - Stéphane BOUILLAND
©CRTC Hauts-de-France - Anne-Sophie FLAMENT
©Hauts-de-France Tourisme - Anne-Sophie Flament
©CRTC Hauts-de-France - Anne-Sophie FLAMENT
©Nablezon
    Amiens Christmas Market

    The largest Christmas market in Northern France, Amiens truly embraces the festive spirit. With over 130 chalets, amusement rides, carols and family-friendly activities, the city buzzes throughout December.

    The highlight comes after dark, when the UNESCO-listed Amiens Cathedral becomes the backdrop for a spectacular sound-and-light show Chroma, illuminating its façade in vivid colours — a magical moment for visitors of all ages.

    Festive markets to discover by car

    Calais Christmas Market

    Just after crossing the Channel, Calais offers a welcoming introduction to French Christmas traditions. Its festive market features around 80 stalls selling seasonal treats, alongside storytelling sessions in Father Christmas’ cottage — a hit with younger visitors.

    Boulogne-sur-Mer Christmas Market

    In Boulogne-sur-Mer, Christmas is celebrated with warmth and generosity. The market brings together local food, maritime traditions and convivial atmosphere, creating a cosy setting that reflects everything the town does best.

    Saint-Quentin Christmas Market

    Smaller and beautifully traditional, Saint-Quentin’s Christmas market charms visitors with its refined setting and elegant town square. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to admire the city’s striking Art Deco architecture during the festive season.

    Le Touquet Christmas Market

    Elegant and enchanting, Le Touquet offers a Christmas market that feels straight out of a storybook. Perfect for a romantic winter break or a festive family escape, it combines seaside charm with seasonal sparkle.

    From lively city squares to intimate coastal towns, Christmas markets in Northern France offer warmth, flavour and togetherness — all within easy reach for a winter weekend away.