Where to spend winter in France? If this is a question you’ve been asking yourself, you are in the right place! Keep reading and discover 10 amazing destinations for winter in France!
Did you know that winter holidays in France can be as enjoyable as summer ones? Spending a few days, or even weeks, during winter in France can be a unique and magical experience.
There is so much more to do than just skiing in the Alps and Pyrenees. Believe me, I grew up there!
From picturesque medieval villages covered in snow to quiet countryside towns surrounded by mountains, as well as larger cities with rich histories, there is something for everyone. So keep reading for the best guide to winter travel in France.
This blog post is all about answering your question: “Where to spend winter in France?”
10 amazing destinations for winter holidays in France!
1. Chamonix: The Ultimate Ski Destination for Winter in France
I know, I know… I said earlier that there is much more to do than skiing during winter in France. But if it is something you enjoy, there is no better place than Chamonix to go skiing in France.
If you are looking for the ultimate ski destination for spending a few days during winter in France, Chamonix is the place to be! Located at the foot of Mont Blanc — the highest peak of Western Europe — this small town is perfect for experienced skiers as well as beginners. With various ski resorts in the surroundings, I have no doubt that you will find the perfect fit for you!
One more thing that makes Chamonix such a popular winter destination in France? The quality of the snow there. We all know that over the last decades, snow has become more and more rare at lower altitudes. But Chamonix, being located higher in altitude than other towns, does not have this problem!
For the adrenaline junkies, you will be glad to know that you can go paragliding over the Alps to get the best panoramic view of all!
If you are not into skiing, don’t worry! There is much more to do there, and you will have no problem finding activities you enjoy.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT CHAMONIX
The town and its surroundings are full of activities and experiences you will want to try. Museums, craft shops, art galleries, restaurants, spas, etc. — the perfect combination for spending the best winter holidays in France.
During Christmastime, you will even find a lovely Christmas market to try local specialties — anything with cheese is the best — and buy handcrafted souvenirs. All winter long, the city also proposes cultural events — concerts, exhibitions, and mountain movie festivals.
Everything to have the time of your life this winter in France!
2. Strasbourg and Its Magical Christmas Market
Did you know that Strasbourg is often called the “Winter capital”? Well, if you have already visited during winter—or are planning to—you understand why!
The city hosts every year one of the oldest and most popular Christmas markets in all of Europe. Yes, all of Europe. Christmas markets in Strasbourg take place all over the city, and believe me, they are among the best Christmas markets in France.
Magical atmosphere, shining lights, little wooden chalets, and the delicious smell of mulled wine—there is not one thing you won’t like about them. Well, except for the crowds maybe… But believe me, it is one of the best destinations for winter holidays in France, and if you want to immerse yourself in Alsatian culture, there is no better place!
Between handcrafted products and Christmas decorations, culinary specialties, and typical beverages—you will live a complete experience! Don’t forget to enjoy the street shows, Christmas concerts, and ice skating rinks. There is no place for spending winter in France that will feel more magical!
If you are not into Christmas markets or for some reason don’t specifically enjoy the Christmas mood, don’t worry! Strasbourg is still a great destination for you!
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT STRASBOURG
The city center, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is as beautiful as it is charming. Half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and a majestic Gothic cathedral—you will have a blast just wandering around. My favorite place in Strasbourg? The district of “La Petite France”. I highly suggest you add it to your itinerary. It is the cutest place in the entire city!
When you get cold (because yes, you will—it’s winter after all), just head to a restaurant and try the delicious Alsatian cuisine. My top 3 picks? Choucroute, tarte flambée, and kougelhopf! Whether you prefer wine or beer, you will find the perfect local drink to accompany your meal!
To sum it up… Why is Strasbourg a great destination for winter holidays in France? Lovely atmosphere, beautiful city, good food, and great drinks to discover! Can it get any better than that?
3. Nice: Where to Spend Winter by the Beach in France
If you don’t really enjoy the cold and are wondering where to spend winter in France by the beach, I have the perfect destination for you: the beautiful city of Nice! I am not saying that you won’t be cold, but believe me, the climate there during winter is much more enjoyable and sunnier than in other regions of the country. Temperatures usually vary from 10 to 15°C, which makes it the perfect place to spend winter holidays in France and enjoy the outdoors!
Walking or cycling on the Promenade des Anglais, drinking a coffee or having lunch at a seaside restaurant, enjoying the beaches—and even swimming for the most courageous of us… There are tons of things to do in Nice that you will enjoy on a sunny winter day!
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT NICE
Even if the weather is one of the biggest attractions to add Nice to your France winter itinerary, there are other things that will probably convince you to visit, winter or not.
The old town with its narrow streets and colorful houses, the famous market on the Cours Saleya, and even the delicious local cuisine… Trust me, you will have a blast there!
And if you are visiting in February, you will have the chance to witness one of the most colorful and famous Carnivals in Europe. Parades, flowers, street shows, etc. The Carnival of Nice attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year! Don’t miss out on this special event! (To know everything about the Carnival, click here!)
If you can’t visit during the time of the Carnival, don’t worry! You will still have plenty of things to do and see in Nice. Museums, walks on Castle Hill, shops, restaurants, etc. I promise, Nice is always a good destination for winter holidays in France!
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4. Paris: The City of Lights and Winter Delights
Ah, Paris! I believe we can’t possibly make a top 10 of where to spend winter in France without talking about the so-called “City of Lights.” If you visit Paris during winter, you will understand why we call it that way…
Christmas decorations, incredible displays of lights, shop windows all decorated for the end of the year… It is truly magical! If you get the chance to walk the famous Champs-Elysées during this period, don’t miss Les Galeries Lafayette and Le Printemps. Thousands of visitors come to spend a few days of winter in Paris just to take a look at these iconic windows.
But that’s not all; you will find Christmas markets everywhere around the city where you can buy handcrafted souvenirs and taste the delicious local cuisine. And when you get cold, drink a glass of mulled wine and go ice skating on the outdoor rink located at the Hôtel de Ville. There you will get the full winter in France experience!
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Paris
I believe you already know that there is much more to do in Paris than just seeing its winter attractions. But if you are looking for a quick guide, here are the most popular things to add to your itinerary for a few days in Paris.
The Louvre, the Orsay Museum, and the Pompidou Center are the three most important places if you are looking to see artistic wonders and exhibitions. If you are into history, visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle, or the Catacombs of Paris. Not only will you learn a ton of things, but you will get the chance to visit these famous French landmarks!
There are also a lot of shows and entertainment waiting for you in Paris. Attend a ballet at the Opera Garnier, a theater show, or even a concert. Believe me, there is always something to do in Paris, whether you are visiting during winter or not. For the less sensitive to cold, take a stroll around Montmartre or the Marais district and just follow the wind.
Oh, and I almost forgot… No experience in Paris is complete without trying the local French cuisine. From street food and markets to bakeries and even Michelin-rewarded restaurants, there is something for everyone in Paris and for all budgets.
I believe you know by now that if you are wondering where to spend winter in France in a big city, Paris is one of your best options! Now keep reading to discover another French city so spend winter in France, but much less known…
5. Lille: A Hidden Gem for Winter Vacations in France
Another city you might not have thought to add to your France winter itinerary is Lille. And if you are visiting Paris, Lille is only an hour away by train from the French capital. So why not visit both?
Like most big cities in France, Lille displays a magical atmosphere during winter and Christmas time. Christmas markets that look like small villages, artisanal products and handicrafts, displays of lights, delicious food… Lille is particularly renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. And you know the best about it? Not only will you be able to try all the French culinary specialties, but also Belgian ones. After all, Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is only a few hours away from Lille.
The most famous winter attraction in Lille is the ferris wheel located on the Grand’Place. From up there, you will be able to see the entire city and all its decorations. Between this, the well-decorated streets, the Christmas trees, and the shop windows all decked out, there are few places in France that will feel more magical.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Lille
If Christmassy things aren’t your vibe but you are still looking for the best winter getaways in France, don’t worry—Lille is still a great fit for you!
The city is packed with cultural activities and tourist attractions. The architecture is impressive, with landmarks such as the Vieille Bourse, the Citadelle of Lille, and the Grand’Place. If you are into art, you’ll be glad to know that the Palais des Beaux-Arts is one of the biggest museums in the entire country! So don’t miss out—add it to your itinerary!
Still not what you are looking for in your winter in France? Well, there’s more!
Shopping centers, a charming old town, independent boutiques, lovely cafés and restaurants to try local specialties, theater shows, and music concerts at the Opera de Lille, covered markets like the Wazemmes market… Anything you are looking for in your winter holidays in France, you will find it in Lille!
6. Annecy and Its Winter Festival
Looking for where to spend winter in France to attend a winter festival? Stop looking, I have the best—and one of the most charming—places to share with you: Annecy!
During winter and the Winter Festival of Annecy, the entire city transforms into a magical place. Light shows, ice sculptures, unique cultural events, and more. The old town turns into a Santa village, and ice sculptors come from all over the world to create and exhibit their temporary creations that amaze all visitors.
There is even an ice sculpture contest taking place during the Winter Festival, where artists create unique pieces from blocks of ice. It is such a unique visual experience for visitors. You will also find street shows, concerts, and activities for the entire family in Annecy, making it the perfect place to spend a few days of winter in France with your kids and relatives.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Annecy
Apart from the Winter Festival, there are plenty of reasons to visit Annecy during winter!
First of all, the location of the city. Annecy is situated on the shore of the famous Lake Annecy and surrounded by the French Alps. The scenery you will get from there is just spectacular, and if you are lucky enough to see it with snow, you will be amazed!
There are also many outdoor and winter activities to experience in Annecy or near the city. Ice skating on the frozen lake, walking by the shore, visiting famous ski resorts in proximity like La Clusaz and Le Grand-Bornand, sled dog rides, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more. If you like the outdoors, you will have a blast in Annecy and create unique memories of your winter in France!
If you are not really into outdoor sports, there are still a few things you can do in the city to make the most of your trip. Visit the Annecy Castle with its panoramic view over the city and the lake, or explore one of Annecy’s most famous museums, such as the Castle Museum or the Palais de l’Ile, to learn about the history and culture of the region.
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7. Grenoble: A Hub for Winter Sports Enthusiasts in France
Now, if you are looking for one of the best mountain destinations in France to spend winter while still enjoying the comfort and entertainment of staying in a city, here is the perfect match for you: Grenoble!
I might be biased about Grenoble as I grew up there and spent most of my life exploring the city and its surroundings. But that’s how I can assure you that the Capital of the Alps is the perfect mix of outdoor winter sports and city life! Keep reading, and I promise you will be convinced to add it to your France winter itinerary.
The best thing about Grenoble and the surrounding ski resorts is that most of them are easily accessible by public transportation. When traveling without a car, this is a major advantage. You can live in the city and easily head up to the mountains without worrying about transportation. The easiest ski resorts to reach by bus are Les Deux Alpes, Alpe d’Huez, Chamrousse, Villard de Lans, and Les 7 Laux. Some of these resorts offer combo deals for your daily pass and bus fare. Check them out—you could save quite a lot of money!
During Christmas time in Grenoble, you will also find various Christmas markets and celebrations to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit! Walk around, try new foods, and drink a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate to keep warm while visiting the city.
With all these features, Grenoble is the perfect mix of winter sports and the charm of city life, making it an ideal destination for your France winter itinerary.
But what if you are neither a fan of winter sports nor the Christmas spirit? Don’t worry, Grenoble still has plenty to offer!
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Grenoble
So what else can you do in Grenoble if you want to spend your winter holidays there? You’ll be happy to know that there are a lot of things you can add to your itinerary!
First of all, Grenoble is full of restaurants and bars where you can try the local specialties—believe me, all the food there is amazing—and relax after a few hours of walking around the city.Unfortunately, we can’t just spend the entire day eating and drinking… Well, we can, but that’s not really the point of discovering a new place, is it?
There are a few museums in Grenoble that are really worth visiting: the city museum for art lovers, the Resistance museum for those who love history and want to learn about the resistance movements of WWII, and the Archaeological Museum of Saint-Laurent for those who are interested in archeology.
If what you are looking for during your winter getaway in France is to chill and simply walk around, Grenoble also has a lot of parks where you can relax and just be. Parks like Park Paul Mistral, the Plants Garden, and the City Garden—just walk around and follow the wind.
One of the major tourist attractions in Grenoble is La Bastille, a fortress perched upon a hill that offers the best panoramic views over the city and the mountains. You can either walk up there—approximately an hour uphill—or use the cable car, also called “Les Bulles.” It’s up to you how you get there, but just don’t miss out! The views from up there are truly the best!
8. Colmar: Best Village in France for Winter Charm
Colmar is one of the best villages in France to visit during winter. If you’re planning a winter getaway in Alsace, Colmar should definitely be on your list. Not only is it charming and magical, but the food there is also a delight!
I’m sure you’ve heard of Colmar before as one of the top destinations for winter in Alsace, and for good reason! Believe me, there’s no place more enchanting than this. If you haven’t heard of it, keep reading and let me convince you that Colmar is one of the best destinations for winter holidays in France.
During Christmas time, the entire city transforms into a Christmas village. And when I say the entire city, I really mean it. Christmas markets, twinkling lights, festive decorations, wooden chalets, and delightful smells of spices and culinary specialties… If you enjoy the Christmas vibe, there’s no better place to be!
Quick warning though… You will probably feel cold. I visited last year, and even though I’m used to the cold, I was freezing! So make sure to pack your winter essentials to fully enjoy your winter in Alsace.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Colmar
Apart from the Christmas markets, Colmar has a lot to offer to visitors. First of all, the Old Town of Colmar is one of the cutest places I have ever seen. Colorful half-timbered houses, paved and narrow streets, small shops… Just wandering there will make you fall in love with the Alsace region.
If you are a museum lover, you will find what you are looking for in Colmar. In my opinion, the two best museums to visit there are the Unterlinden Museum and the Bartholdi Museum. Add them to your Colmar itinerary; you won’t regret it!
Now, if you are more of an adventurous traveler and are looking for outdoor experiences, don’t worry! The surroundings of Colmar are a great place to spend a sporty winter holiday in France. The Vosges mountains are quite close to the city, and you will be able to try activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or even just walks in snowy landscapes.
And after a long day outside, what could be better than tasting the famous Alsatian culinary specialties? Choucroute, tarte flambée, baeckeoffe, pretzels, etc… I wouldn’t even know which one to recommend to you… Just try them all and enjoy your winter in Alsace!
9. Carcassonne: Where to Spend Winter in France in a Medieval Setting
If this year you’re seeking something different for your winter trip and wondering where to spend winter in France in a historic setting, I might have just the place you’re looking for! How about visiting one of the most popular medieval cities in France and experiencing a unique winter break?
If that’s what interests you, then you should definitely head to Carcassonne! There, you won’t find magical Christmas vibes or enchanting Santa Claus villages, but you will discover something else that you’ll probably love!
Carcassonne is renowned for its fortified medieval city, and with good reason! The medieval city is one of the best-preserved in Europe and classified by UNESCO. During winter, and throughout all seasons, visitors can stroll along the narrow paved streets, admire its impressive ramparts, and get an idea of what life was like during those times.
With shows, costumed characters, small boutiques, and more, whether you’re traveling with friends or with kids, you’ll appreciate how authentic everything feels there.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT Carcassonne
Surprisingly, Carcassonne has much more to offer than its medieval heritage. Outside of the fortified medieval city, you will find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants where you can taste local cuisine and regional wines.
The surroundings of the city also offer a lot to visitors. One of the most famous activities is hiking in the Corbières, a chain of hills where you’ll find numerous wine estates and charming villages. If wine is your thing, you will love it! Tastings and tours to learn about the winemaking process will become your favorite activities.
For a more relaxing winter holiday in France, near Carcassonne, why not take a cruise on the famous Canal du Midi? You can admire the picturesque scenery while peacefully floating along the canal.
So, are you convinced to add Carcassonne to your France winter travel bucketlist?
10. Aix-en-Provence: A Peaceful Getaway for Winter in France
Last but not least on this list of top 10 destinations for winter holidays in France: Aix-en-Provence! If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in the south of France to spend winter, this is it!
Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular surroundings, making it one of the best places for tranquil winter retreats in France. During the holiday season, in addition to its charming ambiance, you’ll also find the festive Christmas spirit that many of us love. Christmas markets, festive light decorations, and the delightful aroma of Christmas foods… There’s everything to love!
Simply take a stroll through the historic center and explore its rich architectural heritage. Ancient hotels, centuries-old churches, vibrant markets, Roman thermal baths, and ancient ruins… You’ll feel transported to the past.
OTHER REASONS TO VISIT AIX-EN-Provence
There’s more to do than just strolling around the city in Aix-en-Provence during your winter in France.
Museums, gardens, markets, shops, restaurants, cafés… All of them will allow you to discover both the cultural and culinary heritage. And believe me, when it comes to food, this region of France has nothing to envy.
The hallmark of Provencal cuisine is its use of fresh, local ingredients. Olive oils, seafood, cheeses, and wines of Provence… Honestly, I’ve never tried anything I didn’t like. And if you have a sweet tooth and are looking for a local treat for your afternoon snack, I highly recommend trying the calissons and the navettes.
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