Montpellier becomes a magical place during Christmas, with its Christmas markets full of charm, bright lights and a festive atmosphere. This attracts both locals and tourists.
The city has several Christmas markets, each with its own unique character, but they all share the same Christmas spirit that will transport you to true festive magic. Dare to discover Montpellier?
One of the most emblematic markets in Montpellier is Les Hivernales, which is set up in the Place de la Comédie and the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This is the largest Christmas market in the city, with an impressive array of stalls offering local produce such as cheeses, wines, honeys, jams, etc., perfect for taking away as souvenirs or gifts. In addition, visitors can enjoy Christmas crafts and decorations. You can't miss the selection of traditional sweets and treats!
The atmosphere in Les Hivernales is accompanied by Christmas music and the lights that adorn the city. This creates a festive atmosphere that is hard to beat. There are also food stalls where you can savour the traditional vin chaud (spiced mulled wine), crepes and other local delicacies.
Another of the most popular markets is the one set up in the historic Place Royale du Peyrou, one of the most emblematic squares in Montpellier. This market offers a more intimate, smaller and more traditional atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed experience. Among the stalls, you can find handicrafts such as wooden toys, handmade Christmas decorations and the classic Christmas sweets. The atmosphere in the square is charming and boasts panoramic views of the city and a unique touch that only a traditional market like this can offer.
The markets of Montpellier are not only a paradise for shopping lovers, but also for families. In these markets, you can find activities for the little ones, such as craft workshops, carousels and the possibility of delivering their letters to Santa Claus. The Les Hivernales market, for example, has a themed carousel and a series of shows that will delight children.
One of the biggest attractions of the Christmas markets in Montpellier is the Christmas atmosphere that envelops the entire city. The streets are filled with Christmas lights and decorations. The Plaza de la Comedia is adorned with an impressive Christmas tree that becomes one of the focal points of the celebration. Don't forget to take a family photo next to this impressive tree! The markets offer a perfect opportunity to stroll both day and night and enjoy a hot drink.
Apart from the Christmas markets, this city has a lot to offer. You can visit the Botanical Garden of the Esplanade, one of the oldest gardens in France, ideal for leisurely walks. The Arc de Triomphe is another historical attraction, marking the entrance to the old city. If you are passionate about art, visit the Fabre Museum, it has an extensive collection of European works. You can also enjoy Saint-Jean Old Hospital, which has cultural exhibitions.
To make the most of your visit to the Christmas markets, we recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds, especially at the largest market, Les Hivernales. Make sure you don't miss the traditional dishes of the region, such as mulled wine and Christmas sweets. Don't forget to bring some cash for purchases, although most stalls accept cards.
If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, it's important to bundle up warmly, as although the weather in Montpellier is generally mild, temperatures can drop at night. Now all that's left is to enjoy!
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