Lyon’s rich architectural heritage forms the perfect backdrop for the annual Christmas market, drawing locals and visitors alike with its vibrant array of stalls and a tantalising selection of seasonal treats.
In the following guide, I’ll shed light on everything you’ll need to know to plan a visit to Lyon Christmas Market in 2023, from specific dates and opening times to locations, standout Christmas stalls and distinct local specialties.
As December approaches Lyon, a festive spirit sweeps across the city, instilling a unique warmth that counteracts the frosty winter air.
This enchanting atmosphere harmoniously aligns with the city’s renowned Festival of Lights, a luminary spectacle scheduled to bathe Lyon in a glowing aura from the 7th to the 10th of December in 2023.
Lyon Christmas Market 2023
At the Christmas market in Lyon, nearly 140 wooden chalets sprinkle the landscape, their displays brimming with artisanal crafts, festive decorations and gastronomic delights.
Among the delicious treats, you’ll find Lyon’s famed sausages, Praluline brioche and the warming allure of traditional vin chaud (mulled wine).
Dates and Location
Lyon Christmas Market dates: Likely dates: 23rd November to 24th December 2023.
Location: Place Carnot.
Opening times: Sunday to Friday: 10:30am to 8pm. Saturday: 10:30am to 10pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free, no tickets required.
Christmas lights: Lyon Festival of Lights – 7th to 10th December 2023. More info.
Santa: No.
Ice skating: Yes, at Place Ambroise Courtois.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are allowed on a lead.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Authentic Lyonnaise gastronomy, traditional wooden chalets, historical setting, Fete des Lumieres.
Recommended tour: 4-hour Lyon food tasting tour.
Specialities: Lyon’s famed sausages; Praluline brioche, tartiflette, Saint Marcellin cheese, marrons glacés; vin chaud.
Where to stay: Hotel De Verdun 1882 is a popular hotel, 2-minutes from the Christmas market.
Hotels near Lyon Christmas Market
The Carnot-Gailleton area in Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement presents itself as an ideal base due to its proximity to the Christmas market and central location. Within walking distance, you’ll find a wealth of attractions, cafes and restaurants.
I’d highly recommend the Hotel De Verdun 1882 for its quality service, excellent facilities and its convenient location near the Christmas market, placing you at the heart of Lyon’s holiday festivities.
Location of Lyon Christmas Market
City and Christmas Tours
A city tour of Lyon presents a great opportunity to get a glimpse into they city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Despite the winter chill, the allure of Lyon’s antiquated quarters, vibrant building fronts and striking architecture make it a city well worth exploring.
If you’re a first-time visitor to Lyon, you might like this popular river cruise that takes in many of Lyon’s highlights with the insightful commentary of a local guide. It’s particularly well suited for those visiting Lyon for the first time.
Alternatively, this 4-hour food tasting tour provides a fascinating angle on Lyon’s culture through its celebrated gastronomy.
Christmas in Lyon
This video provides a glimpse of the Lyon Christmas Market’s festive ambience. Watch to gain an insight into the market’s lively atmosphere, characterised by pretty lights and cheerful stalls.
Christmas Specialties in Lyon
Réveillon: This traditional French feast held on Christmas Eve is no ordinary meal. It’s a celebratory gastronomic event showcasing some of France’s finest foods, like foie gras, oysters, escargots (snails) and champagne. The word Réveillon itself derives from ‘réveil’ meaning ‘waking’, as this feast typically goes late into the night.
Bûche de Noël: When it comes to desserts, the Bûche de Noël, or Yule Log, is a true Christmas classic. This dessert resembles a log, as a nod to the ancient tradition of burning a yule log at Christmas. The cake is a rolled sponge, usually filled with chocolate or chestnut purée, covered with chocolate ganache to imitate bark and decorated with sugar paste figurines.
Oysters: Although not a unique Lyonnaise tradition, eating oysters during Christmas is a staple in France. They are typically served raw on the half shell with a little lemon juice or mignonette sauce. This delicacy is usually consumed as an appetiser during the Réveillon feast.
Quenelles: These are a Lyonnaise speciality that might be served during Christmas. Quenelles are a type of dumpling, typically made with creamed fish or meat, combined with breadcrumbs and a light egg binding. They are often poached and served with a rich sauce.
Pommes Dauphinoise: A traditional French dish that originated in the Dauphiné region. The dish involves thinly sliced and layered potatoes cooked in the oven with cream, garlic and cheese. It’s a deliciously rich side dish often served during festive meals.
Tartiflette: Originating from the Savoy region, tartiflette is a hearty, warming dish perfect for winter. It’s a robust, creamy delight made with potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons and onions.
Raclette: A semi-hard cheese typically used for melting, Raclette is a sociable meal where melted cheese is scraped over boiled potatoes, pickles and charcuterie. It’s popular in winter and could be a great centrepiece for a vegetarian Christmas meal if served with a variety of vegetables and boiled potatoes.
Galette des Rois: Although traditionally associated with Epiphany in January, it’s not uncommon to see this flaky puff pastry tart filled with almond cream on Christmas tables. A small figurine, or ‘fève’, is hidden inside, and the person who finds it in their slice becomes the ‘king’ or ‘queen’ for the day.
Remember, Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France, and you might find a variety of regional specialities offered during the Christmas period, each a culinary treat in its own right.
Food at the Christmas Market
Praluline: Originating from the city of Lyon, Praluline is a rich brioche filled with pink sugared almonds, a truly sweet delight. Crafted by Auguste Pralus in 1955, this sweet brioche has become a Lyon Christmas Market staple.
Vin Chaud: Winter markets wouldn’t be complete without a cup of vin chaud or mulled wine. It’s a warm, spiced beverage perfect for keeping the chill at bay while strolling through the market, typically made from red wine combined with spices and citrus peel.
Saucisson Chaud: A quintessential Lyonnaise street food, Saucisson Chaud is a warm, hearty sausage typically served in a baguette. It’s often enjoyed with a dollop of mustard, making for a satisfying, quick meal while exploring the Christmas market.
Roasted Chestnuts: The sweet, nutty aroma of roasted chestnuts is a hallmark of European Christmas markets. Often sold by street vendors, these are roasted on an open fire and served warm, providing a tasty and warming snack.
Raclette Sandwich: A twist on the traditional raclette meal, this sandwich is filled with melted raclette cheese, potatoes and charcuterie. It’s a hearty, comforting street food item that’s perfect for vegetarians if the charcuterie is omitted.
Pain d’épices: A traditional French spiced bread, often compared to gingerbread. It’s usually made with rye flour, honey, and spices such as aniseed and is a sweet and spiced treat often found at Christmas markets.
Crêpes: Thin, light pancakes with a variety of fillings, from simple sugar and lemon to rich Nutella or sophisticated flambéed Grand Marnier, crêpes are a ubiquitous street food item at French markets.
Bratwurst: Representing the influence of neighbouring Germany, Bratwurst (German-style sausage) is often found at European Christmas markets, including Lyon.
Whether you favour savoury or sweet, the Christmas market in Lyon serves up a wonderful array of street foods and snacks that reflect both the local gastronomy and broader European Christmas market traditions.
What to Buy
Lyon Silk: Historically, Lyon has been a significant centre for the silk industry. You’ll find beautiful silk scarves, ties, and other accessories that make for sophisticated and unique gifts at the market.
Guignol Puppets: These traditional Lyonnaise puppets are a local favourite. With their cheerful faces and vibrant costumes, they can make for a charming and nostalgic present for children or lovers of traditional theatre.
Local Artisan Crafts: Numerous stalls feature handmade crafts, including ceramics, jewellery, and woodwork. Crafted by local artisans, these items reflect the talent and creativity of the region’s craft makers.
Santons de Provence: Hand-painted terracotta nativity figurines from the Provence region of France. These intricate figurines depict the nativity scene and a variety of traditional Provencal characters, from shepherds to millers.
French Gastronomic Products: Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, has a rich selection of food products that can be taken home as gifts. Think of bottles of local wine, artisanal cheese, Lyonnaise sausages, or jars of local honey.
Christmas Decorations: Traditional Christmas ornaments, beautifully crafted baubles, handmade nativity scenes and other festive decorations abound. They’re perfect for adding French to your Christmas tree or home.
French Cosmetics: From luxurious soaps to natural skin care products, French cosmetics have a well-deserved reputation for quality. It’s not uncommon to find stalls selling these products, often made with local ingredients, like lavender from Provence or honey from the Rhône-Alpes region.
Finding the perfect gift or souvenir at the Lyon Christmas Market won’t be a challenge. With its rich array of regional specialities, artisan crafts, and gourmet products, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Lyon Festival of Lights 2023
The Lyon Festival of Lights, known locally as Fête des Lumières, is a spectacular event transforming Lyon into a vibrant light canvas.
Held annually in early December, this four-day event attracts millions of visitors to the city. Artists worldwide are invited to create light installations that illuminate the city’s iconic buildings, streets and parks.
It’s an event deeply rooted in the city’s tradition, originally a simple candle-lit tribute to the Virgin Mary. An international celebration of creativity and light is a sight to behold.
Lyon Festival of Lights dates: 7th to 10th December 2023.
Opening times: 8pm to midnight. 6pm to 8pm on the 10th December.
Locations: The main locations of the Festival of Lights include: Saint-Jean Cathedral, Saint-Paul Railway Station, Fourvière Hill, Place du Change, Les Subsistances, Place Sathoney, Place des Terreaux, Place Louis Pradel, Place de la Bourse, Place de la République, Quartier Grolée and Place des Jacobins.
For an extensive range of resources and helpful tips for your visit, I highly recommend checking out Visiter Lyon, a very user-friendly and informative website dedicated to assisting visitors to the city.
For a more comprehensive look where to go this Christmas, my guide to the best Christmas markets in France will provide you with detailed information to help plan your itinerary.
Sustainable Christmas Tips
Many of us are increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability. Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Lyon at Christmas.
- Choose Renewable Energy: Some hotels in Lyon are committed to using renewable energy. By choosing such accommodations, you are supporting the shift towards a more sustainable energy future.
- Reduce Food Waste: Order portions you can finish and consider sharing dishes to minimise waste.
- Ethical Consumption: At Lyon’s Christmas market, opt for locally made gifts and products that support the regional economy. It’s a positive step towards ethical consumption by supporting local makers.
- Sustainable Diets: Many plant-based and vegetarian restaurants in Lyon offer tasty dishes. A move towards plant-based meals, even for a few days, can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
- Sustainable Transport: Lyon has a fantastic public transportation system, which includes trams, buses and the metro. Additionally, Lyon’s Vélo’v bike-sharing program is a fun, healthy and sustainable way to see the city. Opt for these over-driving when possible.
By making small, conscious choices, you can make your visit to Lyon enjoyable and sustainable. Remember, every little action can contribute to the bigger picture of global sustainability.
FAQ
The Lyon Christmas Market dates start on 23rd November and lasts until 24th December 2023.
The main Christmas Market in Lyon is located at Place Carnot in the 2nd district. It’s easily accessible by public transport or walking, making it a convenient destination for visitors.
Lyon Christmas Market typically opens around 10:30 in the morning and closes at 8pm.
Absolutely. The city takes on a magical quality with the Christmas market and Festival of Lights. Despite the colder weather, it’s a fantastic time to experience Lyon’s rich culture and cuisine.
Apart from visiting the Christmas market in Lyon, you can take part in the Festival of Lights, visit the numerous museums and landmarks, enjoy the local cuisine, or take a city tour to explore Lyon’s history and culture.
The Festival of Lights, known locally as Fête des Lumières, is an annual event held in early December where Lyon becomes illuminated by various light installations. Artists worldwide are invited to create these installations that adorn the city’s streets and iconic buildings, making it a breathtaking sight.
Yes, you can find a range of vegetarian options at the Christmas market. From traditional Lyonnaise dishes adapted for a plant-based diet to vegetarian, international foods, there’s a good selection to choose from.
The 2nd district in Lyon is a great choice as it’s the location of the main Christmas market on Place Carnot. Hotel De Verdun 1882, in particular, is a highly-rated hotel within easy reach of the market.
Visiting Lyon in winter is truly a unique experience, defined by the Festival of Lights’ warm glow and the Christmas Market’s lively bustle.
Enjoying the hearty local cuisine, exploring the history-soaked streets, and taking in the beautifully illuminated landmarks, you’ll carry warm memories of Lyon long after your trip concludes.
If you would like to leave a review of Lyon Xmas Market, comment below.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels and tours in Lyon, France. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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