The Ultimate Guide to the Best Christmas Markets in Bordeaux

The best attractions of Bordeaux throughout the year are its chateaux, vineyards, wine museum, and top-notch restaurants. However, during the months of November and December, this enchanting city has additional attractions, including different Christmas shows and illuminated streets. But, without a doubt, its the bustling Christmas markets in Bordeaux that make the season so festive.

There’s no shortage of Christmas markets in Bordeaux. Each market has a distinct focus, varying from traditional European markets to initiatives dedicated to 100% green products. You’ll find a variety of products, food, and activities that will make your Christmas experience memorable.

Le Grand Hotel lights up in festive lights during Christmas. Photo credit: Christophe Brocas

Marché de Noël Allées de Tourny

The Christmas Market Allées de Tourny, called the Marché de Noël Allées de Tourny in French, is the largest and most important Christmas market in Bordeaux. It is held annually in the Allées de Tourney, a historic promenade that is a popular attraction all year round. At Christmas time, the promenade is transformed into a magical holiday village. 

The market offers all the traditional attractions of European Christmas markets, including artisan stalls selling diverse objects, traditional local products, Christmas decorations, and typical delicacies such as canelés, mulled wine, gingerbread, and roasted chestnuts.

What sets this market apart are the additional activities such as exhibitions and animations. There’s even a workshop where visitors can create their own Christmas ornaments!

A staple at almost every Christmas market, make sure to sip on some mulled wine while you explore. Photo credit: Frédéric BISSON

XMAS Market de Darwin

Darwin is one of the most alternative areas for urban art in Bordeaux. It’s a place where creative, social, and gastronomic activities come together. Every year, during one or two weekends in December, it hosts the XMAS Market Darwin, a market that has become one of the most important in the city during the festive period.

Among the attractions are stalls with unique items from local creators, a festive atmosphere with musical entertainment in the evenings, children’s activities, and delicious gastronomic options. Through this market, the organizers hope to promote the work of local artisans. 

Traveler’s tip: Once you’ve strolled around the Christmas markets in Bordeaux, make sure to explore the famous Bordeaux wine museum, the Cité du Vin.

Group drinking wine and having fun in Paris with tour
Let the festive spirit flow freely with some wine-related activities.

Le Super Marché de Noël de l’IBoat & Blonde Venus

A Christmas market on a boat? Yes, that’s right! 

Le Super Marché de Noël de l’IBoat & Blonde Venus, in addition to its original location, is full of surprises, especially for lovers of fashion and authentic handmade clothing.

Inside this charming boat, you will find jewelry, clothing for adults and children, decorations, natural cosmetics, leather goods, and vintage objects. All are made by talented French artisans and creators. With such a particular atmosphere, it is a place not to be missed if you happen to be in Bordeaux during the event. 

Most of Bordeaux’s Christmas markets are quaint set-ups, but some definitely take it to another level. Photo credit: Bernard Blanc

Le Green Marché de Noël aux Vivre de l’Art

The Green Marché de Bordeaux association hosts various green markets in different regions throughout the year. However, during Christmas, they organize a unique sustainability-focused holiday market. This wonderful initiative promotes environmental friendliness and offers only 100% plant-based food and non-food products.

The market features exhibitions created by artisans and producers from the region who use raw materials entirely based on plants. The market offers a wide range of food products like chocolates, biscuits, snacks, desserts, beers, wines, jams, and other delicious options. Non-food products such as soaps and cosmetics are also available.

children's ride with festive christmas tree
From family fun to culinary treats, you’ll find that each Christmas market in Bordeaux has its own vibe. Photo credit: Bernard Blanc

La Grande Supérette de Noël de la Fabrique Pola

Prefer to make your own holiday gifts? Head to the La Grande Supérette de Noël to do just that!

This mini Christmas market takes place at the Fabrique de Pola, an artistic and cultural center where art is created through various practices. You’ll find personalized engravings, jewelry, ceramics, screen printing, and much more.

Visitors have the opportunity to get hands-on with artistic workshops and activities. But don’t miss out – this special event is just a two-day program!

Art in the Montmartre Museum with tour guide in Paris.
Art and culture are central points of French culture, and you will surely find replicas and originals alike to bring as souvenirs from your trip.

Take your enjoyment of all-things Bordeaux to the next level by signing up for an amazing food tour of the city! On our Bordeaux Ultimate Food Tour, you’ll discover  the rich history and culture that makes Bordeaux one of the world’s top culinary cities.

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About the author

Yareli is a Dominican travel writer based in the beautiful city of Lucca, Italy. Traveling and exploring every corner of Tuscany are her passions. She enjoys trying new flavors while traveling. As well as sharing her travel experiences through her blog Wandering and Tasting and Instagram @wanderingandtasting.

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