Do you love Christmas? We totally get it! The magic of the holidays will gradually start to return to Paris and all across France. If you enjoy exploring the region a bit, we’ve put together a short list of the most beautiful Christmas villages less than 2 hours from Paris!
Moret-sur-Loing (Seine-et-Marne): 55 minutes from Gare de Lyon
This magnificent fortified village, whose medieval ruins and keep are absolutely fabulous, is truly magnificent during the holiday season. With its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, it almost feels like a movie set. From December 16 to 20, 2026, its artisanal Christmas market will enchant young and old alike. To explore this little gem, allow about 55 minutes.
Chevreuse (Yvelines): 55 minutes by RER B
The RER B line reaches its terminus, Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, in 55 minutes. The Christmas market in Chevreuse is modest but authentic. The neighboring town of Montfort-l’Amaury also hosts its own market in the same spirit.
Senlis (Oise): about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Gare du Nord
Less well-known than Provins, the town of Senlis is over 2,000 years old! Located not far from Chaalis Abbey, it’s one of the Oise region’s hidden gems. Its ancient alleyways make it the perfect Christmas setting. To get there, it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes by train from Gare du Nord, or 50 minutes by car.
Janvry (Essonne): about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Gare du Nord
Every year, the village of Janvry, located in western Essonne, transforms into a true Christmas village. With its illuminated chalets, huge nativity scene, and pony rides, it’s about a 40-minute drive from Paris and a 1-hour-20-minute train ride from Gare du Nord. Its Christmas village is set within a fortified village: illuminated chalets, nativity scenes from around the world, and pony rides for children.
Provins (Seine-et-Marne): 1 hour 23 minutes from Gare de l’Est
The medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, is a must-see all year round. But at Christmas, it’s truly magical. Its medieval Christmas market will take place this year on December 12 and 13! The medieval upper town is a 15-minute walk uphill from the train station. By car, allow about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Bonus: Riquewihr (Haut-Rhin): less than 3 hours from Paris
Riquewihr is a wonderful village whose atmosphere and architecture are said to have inspired the world of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. From November 27 through December 20, the entire village will take on a fairy-tale atmosphere. With its twinkling chalets and magnificent decorations, the Christmas spirit will be in full swing. To get there, allow about a 3-hour drive from Paris