Nancy may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a holiday trip in France.
But after years of traveling through the country’s festive markets, particularly those in eastern France, I found Nancy offers something the others don’t have.
It’s a winter wonderland filled with festive decorations, traditional crafts, and tasty treats. And, best of all, it doesn’t have the crowds you’ll find in towns like Strasbourg.
In this guide, I’ll share with you everything you need to know about the Nancy Christmas market, including must-visit sites, what to eat, and other practical tips.
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Theme
Eastern France is known for having some of the best Christmas markets in the country. And what makes each one so special is its theme.
In Nancy, the theme is – The Legend of the Patron Saint of Lorraine – Saint Nicolas.
Helpful Tip: Sometimes you’ll see the theme written as Fêtes de Saint-Nicolas.
It originates from the late 15th century, when Duke René II of Lorraine was set to confront Charles the Bold at the Battle of Nancy.
Before doing so, he placed his army under the protection of the Virgin Mary and Saint Nicolas.
When the Duke returned victorious, Saint Nicolas was named the Patron Saint of Lorraine.
So, in honor of the Patron Saint of Lorraine, every year from the end of November to the beginning of January, you’ll find an incredible Christmas market dedicated to Saint Nicolas.
But, if there is one reason to visit, it’s the parade on Saint Nicholas Day. It’s a fun event where the whole city comes out to celebrate.
Dates and Opening Hours
The dates and hours for the 2026 Christmas market will be posted here as soon as they are available.
Key Highlights
Must-Visit Sites and Events
While Nancy has a lot of things to see and do, there are a few must-visit places at the Christmas market.
Below is a list of my recommendations:
- Place Charles III: This is the largest Christmas market in town. It’s called Saint Nicolas’ Village, and it’s where you’ll find 60 wooden chalets selling crafts, mulled wine, and food.
- Rue du Pont Mouja: This food market focuses on variety. There are traditional French specialties like foie gras, escargots, and crepes, but you’ll also find some international food stands.
- Place Vaudémont: This is the gourmet section of the Christmas market, but it’s focused on local producers. It’s where you’ll find homemade soups, mulled wine, and other snacks.
- Palais du Gouvernement: Otherwise known as the Governor’s Village, this is where you’ll find a mix of vendors selling arts and crafts. There are a few food stands, but nothing like what you’ll find at the other markets.
- Place Carrière: Here you’ll find lots of activities for kids, including an ice-skating rink, a Ferris wheel, a merry-go-round, and a few wooden chalets selling snacks.
- Place Saint-Epvre: This little square has a small tent with a few stands selling fondue. There are tables, chairs, and heaters so you can enjoy your food and stay warm.
- Porte de la Craffe: This medieval gate is transformed into a festive market at Christmas, with vendors selling food and drinks.
- Place Stanislas: This is where you’ll find Nancy’s Christmas tree as well as a light show every evening.
- Saint Nicholas Day Parade: On Saint Nicholas Day, a parade circles the markets and ends at Place Stanislas. St. Nicolas appears and hands out candy and gifts to children.
Food and Drinks
I wouldn’t say that Nancy’s Christmas market is focused on food. There are some fantastic food stalls, but it isn’t the main event.
Nevertheless, there are still a few must-try local specialties.
- Vin chaud (mulled wine): This warm, spiced drink is made with white or red wine, sugar, and spices like cinnamon. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for a cold day.
- Macarons de Nancy: This meringue-based cookie is light and airy, with a soft center and crispy exterior. The best ones are from Maison des Soeurs Macarons.
- Bergamote de Nancy: This is a local candy made with bergamot. It’s a sour yet sweet treat. You can find them at a few stores, but the most notable is the Maison Lefevre-Lemoine.
- Mannele: This is a brioche shaped like a little man and decorated with frosting. It’s a traditional dessert prepared for Saint Nicolas Day.
- Quiche Lorraine: This savory tart is filled with eggs, cheese, and cream, and topped with bacon. It’s an easy snack to eat while you’re walking around.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
How to Get to Nancy
Nancy is about 385 kilometers (239 miles) east of Paris, and is easy to get to with and without a car.
Helpful Tip: Train tickets can be purchased on the SNCF-Connect website or app.
If you are traveling from abroad, the easiest airports to fly into are in Paris (either CDG or Orly).
Then, from Paris’ Gare de l’Est train station, you can take the train to Nancy. The journey is about 90 minutes.
Helpful Tip: Nancy can also be reached by train or car from other cities in eastern France, like Strasbourg and Metz, so you can easily add it to your trip.
Where to Stay
Nancy has several accommodation options. Below are my recommendations:
- Maison d’Hôte de Myon: Located in the center of Nancy, you’ll have the chance to sleep in a building from the 18th century. It’s quiet yet close to everything, and the staff is friendly.
- Hotel De Guise Nancy Vieille Ville: This hotel is in Nancy’s Old Town, so you’ll be right in the center. The staff is welcoming, and the rooms are comfy.
- Hotel D’haussonville: Located in the historic center, this beautiful hotel is perfect for anyone who wants to add a little luxury to their trip. The rooms are large and very comfortable.
Where to Eat
I filled up at the Christmas market stalls, so I didn’t stop by any restaurants. But I have eaten at several places on my other visits to Nancy.
Below is the list of restaurants that I recommend:
- La Cour Des Arts: One of the most unique French restaurants in town. The food here is simple but delicious. It’s located in an unassuming building, so keep your eyes peeled.
- Racine: Delicious food in an elegant setting. The products are fresh and local. If you’re looking for something more high-end, this is the place for you.
- Voyou: Best burger in town. They also offer vegetarian options. The style is chic, the menu is modern, and the prices are reasonable.
Practical Tips
After visiting the Christmas market in Nancy several times, here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:
- Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days. But it’s not as crowded as the Christmas markets in Alsace.
- The tourist office has free booklets with events, maps, and other tips to help you plan your day.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking around a lot.
- Always start with “Bonjour” before ordering food and drinks or asking a question.
- If you plan to visit on Saint Nicolas Day, make reservations for restaurants and accommodation as early as possible.
Conclusion
Nancy’s Christmas market is a fun experience. There are exciting events and festivities throughout December, and it’s very family-friendly.
But what I like most is that it’s off the main tourist trail, so you can enjoy it without the crowds.
Next, I recommend checking out my itinerary for a day in Nancy to make the most of your visit.
Read More Articles
I hope you enjoyed my post and found it helpful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.
- Is Metz Worth It? 19 Pros and Cons to Consider
- Metz or Nancy: Which Should You Visit? (Local’s Guide)
- What to Do in Metz in One Day: 15 Amazing Activities
