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Christmas in Southern France is a unique opportunity to discover the region's winter charm. Immerse yourself in its culture without the usual crowds, explore famous sites in a tranquil setting, and enjoy comforting dishes like fondue, raclette, and other French delights perfect for cooler days. Discover our recommendations for a memorable family Christmas in Southern France!
Nice becomes a winter wonderland at Christmas and is perfect for families. The famous annual Christmas Village in Jardin Albert 1er is a must-see. In the heart of the city, over 60 chalets sell crafts and local specialities like socca and mulled wine. From late November to early January, the market has a Big wheel, ice rink and Santa’s House for kids. Strolling through the illuminated streets of Vieux Nice is a truly magical experience, with twinkling lights and festive displays around every corner. Families can also enjoy the Grande Parade de Noël on 8th December, a lively event with music, floats and street performers.
Monaco is magical at Christmas, with its Christmas Market at Port Hercule from early December to early January. Families can walk along the waterfront and discover charming stalls selling gourmet goodies, handmade crafts and luxury items. The market is accompanied by an ice rink where kids and adults can skate under the Mediterranean sky. Monaco’s streets are beautifully decorated and highlights, including Christmas snow globes at the Casino Square and Christmas Carousel in the Jardin des Boulingrins. So it ‘s worth considering to book a luxury residence in Monaco with a view on the stunning Christmas decorations in the city centre.
Marseille has a lot to offer to the families that want to have a wonderful Christmastime in the south of France. At the Foire aux Santons, its famous nativity figurine fair in the Old Port, you can enjoy a wide range of activities from mid-November to early January. This centuries-old tradition is all about local artisans making nativity scenes to take home as a family keepsake. The Christmas markets, the Children’s Village, Christmas parade, gospel concert, ice rink, toboggan run definitely make December in Marseille a unique experience. Don’t miss the illuminated Canebière, Marseille’s main street and the festive activities on the Rue Saint-Ferréol and surrounding area.
Toulouse, the “Pink City”, is a unique place at Christmas with its Marché de Noël on Place du Capitole. The market is open from late November to late December and has a range of special gifts including artisanal toys and gourmet goodies. The carousel and light projections on the Capitol building will undoubtedly be pure magic for kids. In this neighbourhood, you can also find a few other Christmas markets with rich event programmes, activities for the whole family, delicious food and stunning decorations.
Montpellier combines history and festive fun during its Festival Hivernales in Esplanade Charles de Gaulle throughout December. This Christmas market is eco-friendly with local organic produce, handmade gifts and workshops for kids. Families can also enjoy street performances or ride the big carousel on Place de la Comédie. For a magical evening, explore the illuminated façades of Montpellier’s historic landmarks, including Saint-Pierre Cathedral.
Cannes is glamorous and traditional at Christmas, with its Christmas Village at Allées de la Liberté from early December to early January. Here families can discover beautifully decorated chalets selling luxury gifts, local specialities and sweet treats like candied chestnuts. The city also has a Christmas Parade, themed workshops for kids, Santa’s chalet, the ice rink, Musical Thursdays and many other activities for the whole family, so remember to rent a villa in Cannes for a perfect stay.
Antibes has lovely Christmas markets all around the charming seaside city. From late November to early January, families can ice skate, listen to live music and warm up with crêpes. The city also has family friendly events like storytelling, puppet shows, Big wheel, free workshops for children and many other Christmas activities. Do not miss the chance to take part in the horse-drawn carriage rides that are available from December 21 to January 5, 2025.
For a white Christmas, Chamonix in the French Alps is the place to be. The Christmas Market in Place Balmat is open throughout December and has cosy wooden chalets selling handmade gifts and alpine treats like tartiflette. The festive fun continues on the slopes, with Santa making special appearances at the ski resorts. Families can take horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow-covered streets or take the Montenvers Railway to see the breathtaking Mer de Glace glacier.
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