Christmas markets are a great way to get into the festive spirit complete with mulled wine, carols, local delicacies, fairground carousels and much more.
Shoppers wanting to sample something a little different to the usual attractions can travel to Hauts-de-France, home to some of Europe’s best Christmas markets.
The festivities are in easy reach by hopping on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle to the UK’s closest international self-drive destination.
This region in Northern France offers an authentic festive experience right on the doorstep. From the glittering big wheel and charming wooden chalets of the market at Lille to the atmospheric stalls of the Village de Noël in Arras, and the spectacular light show at the Cathedral in Amiens – there’s no shortage of things to explore.
Travelling by car from Folkestone to Calais on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle is by far the easiest way to pop over to France for an overnight stay or a long weekend. Here is Hauts-de-France Tourism’s pick of the best Christmas Markets for 2021.
Lille Christmas Market –November 19 –December 30
One of Europe’s best-loved Christmas markets can be found in the city of Lille just over an hour from the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle at Calais by car. Shop til you drop and you’ll be spoilt for choice with an array of handmade decorations and intricate arts and crafts from as far afield as Russia, Canada and Poland. Stock up on local foods including gingerbread, pastries and waffles as you keep warm with a delicious mulled wine, ride the glittering big wheel and Christmassy carousel then enjoy traditional carols as you browse amongst a selection of 90 wooden chalets in Place Rihour.
Arras Christmas Market –December 3 –January 2, 2022 (all week)
Roughly halfway between Lille and Amiens, and just an hour’s drive from Calais, Arras draws visitors year-round for its splendid Flemish-style architecture, some of which is UNESCO World Heritage listed. At…