As a travel destination, France is on every bucket list – and more so for its seasonal versatility. While Europe has traditionally been a summer destination, winter getaways in France are increasingly gaining popularity with more focus on regional traditions, Christmas festivities and year-end celebrations.

There’s plenty to do and see in each French region, with some events specifically dedicated to the onset of winter and the accompanying traditions since time immemorial. On the 8 th of December, you can head to Lyon to view its signature light festival, where, in a stunning visual landscape, the city’s classic Renaissance architecture is illuminated against the darkness of the approaching winter. Up north, winters are harsher but bring along a range of traditions and festivals that are unique to the northern regions. Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the Christmas markets in Strasbourg – the oldest one in France, made up of some 300 wooden chalets, where the scent of cinnamon, honey and gingerbread waft through the frosty air. You can warm up your hands with a cup of mulled wine as you wait your turn to pose for a picture with the dreamy Christmas tree – the tallest in all of Europe.

If you’d rather get your heart pumping, and prefer physical activity to mulled wine for that much-needed warmth, why not plan a getaway to the Alps or the Vosges ranges? With a variety of ski resorts and adventure facilities, you can try your hand at all the winter sports on your wish list or participate in the snowclad musical extravaganza in Alpes d’Huez for the Winter Tomorrowland.

Plan a trip to Disneyland and its enchanting Christmas specials – and bring in the new year with a shopping spree at the Paris Winter Sales, which open their doors for you in January to buy all you can at heavily discounted rates.

For a more temperate vacation, choose the south of France where the cold is not quite so biting; and yet the air crackles with the excitement of the annual carnivals. This huge event in Nice is spread over 15 days and is a perfect opportunity to view parades and flower floats almost entirely composed of regional botany.

Seasoned travellers always say that there is no better way to explore a new place than as a local. As the days get shorter and the nights darker, the true French art de vivre is to indulge in traditional winter specials, snowy vacations and quiet walks with companions to admire the changing landscapes and festive decorations. Wrap up warm in a wool coat, winter boots and a vibrant scarf (for a burst of colour!) and take to the streets as a true local. End the day with a hearty supper à la française – a tartiflette, coqau vin, a classic raclette or even just a simple onion soup with a crusty baguette – all washed down with a selection of delectable French wines.

For a taste of France closer home, experience the Austral winter in Reunion Island in the months of August and September. Discover adventure like never before and indulge in volcanic walks, lava tunnels,the marvels of the ocean or soak in breathtaking views, Reunionese culinary delicacies and Creole music on this French island in the Indian Ocean.

Winter Festivals/ Events in France –

1. Disneyland Paris 2023 – Enchanted Christmas – 11 November 2023 to 7 January 2024
2. Beaujolais Nouveau Day – 16th November 2023
3. Fêtes des Lumières, Lyon – 7th December to 10th December 2023
4. Les Soldes d’hiver in Paris – 10th January to 6th February 2024
5. Nice Carnival – 17th February to 3rd March, 2024
6. Lemon Festival in Menton – February 17 to 3rd March 2024
7. Fete du Mimosa in Mandelieu – 14th February to 18th February 2024
8. Tomorrowland Winter 2024 – 16th March to 23rd March 2024
9. Fete des Saint-Nicolas – 6th December 2024