Are you planning a pre-Christmas trip to the twinkling lights of northern France? An early seasonal break will fill your heart with good cheer, and shrug off those winter blues. Enjoy a relaxing time in a superbly fitted French timeshare apartment rental, and get ready for the party season ahead. Festive fun can be had too, with a trip to some of the Christmas markets of northern France, and you might pick up a few gifts to take home. There’ll be plenty of locals attending the markets, so join in with them, and stock up on gifts, cheese and wine, of course.
Where are the Christmas markets?
There are several great spots for the Christmas markets, so explore more of them in your car, and enjoy a taste of local festive flavour. The best ones – and there are lots – are:
Amiens – The capital of Picardy, and with over a million visitors annually to the Christmas market, a must-see on your whistle-stop tour.
Arras – The capital of the Artois region and Flemish architecture abounds. Try the sweet or savoury speciality, the heart-shaped treatCoeurs d’Arras.
Lens – Take a romantic carriage ride around the Place Jean Jaures. Lens can be found just south of Arras.
Béthune – The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there’s plenty to see besides the Christmas market. There are also street theatre sessions, magicians and special festive rides for the kids.
Le Touquet Paris Plage – Take the opportunity to attend the parade of St Nicholas. An upmarket seaside resort, it’s definitely worth exploring.
Lille – Taste the local speciality gingerbread.
Boulogne-Sur-Mer – A very festive town, don’t miss a chance to taste the smoked herring.
Licques – Renowned for its specially reared poultry.
Dunkirk – Head for Place Roger Salerno, and enjoy the street theatre and music that accompanies the festive Christmas market.
What’s to buy?
From handmade, artisan gifts, to traditional Christmas decorations, ensure you have plenty of room for the spoils in your car. Snack on warm chestnuts from the street vendors, as you browse the stalls. A magical atmosphere is enhanced by twinkling lights, traditional carol singers, and street bands. A cup of warming mulled wine, infused with the flavours of Christmas and warming you up as you browse adds to the festive feeling. Compare all of that to a faceless shopping mall back home, and trudging around the same old shops, and make up your mind to book today!