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The 5 most beautiful Christmas villages right outside Paris

undefined undefined 13 novembre 2023 undefined 18h10

undefined undefined 3 janvier 2024 undefined 13h11

The Editor

@ Roman Babakin

If you love Christmas festivities but not the hustle and bustle of the crowded capital city, then you'll absolutely adore this list of must-visit spots just a few kilometers away from Paris during this time of the year.

The shop windows are in place, the parks and Parisian gardens are filled with lights, and Christmas markets are popping up everywhere. The good mood is slowly settling in, and while all of this brings stars to our eyes, it can sometimes be difficult to fully enjoy all these lights. Whether it's due to lack of time, too many tourists blocking our view, or simply because "we already know them too well, it's the same thing every year." So this year, why not take advantage of a little weekend getaway or the upcoming holidays to hop on a TER train and go explore a bit further, where magical atmospheres immediately make us feel like we're diving into a fairytale world?Christmas season is here, and what better way to celebrate than by immersing yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Provins, a medieval town located less than 2 hours away from Paris. This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its grand medieval events throughout the year, but it truly comes to life during Christmas. Provins will transport you back in time with its unique medieval market, taking place on the 9th and 10th of December. This extraordinary market is the perfect opportunity to find original gifts that go beyond the typical socks and books. Leave behind the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with wooden swords and troubadour costumes. To get a taste of what awaits you in Provins, take a look at this video: [Embedded YouTube video] You can easily reach Provins in just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Gare du Nord. So why not escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the magical world of medieval Christmas? It will be an experience you won't forget. Start planning your trip now and make this Christmas truly special.
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A Romantic Christmas in Barbizon

They call it "The Village of Painters", that immediately sets the tone. Barbizon is the perfect place to take a little date and enjoy the magic of Christmas to conclude. We stroll among the little houses that have inspired some of the most famous pre-impressionist painters. With the lights, the cobblestone streets, the little Christmas shops, and the beautiful Fontainebleau forest right next door, the tour is a success!

1h10 from Gare de Lyon
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A Christmas on a grand scale in Janvry

Here, the entire village (approximately 630 inhabitants) celebrates Christmas for two exceptional weekends. From November 24th to 26th, and then from December 1st to 3rd, you can enjoy the immense market, pony rides, an exhibition of nativity scenes from around the world, and even meet Santa Claus, all in a cute setting. And of course, don't hesitate to indulge in some locally-made specialties of remarkable quality at one of the carefully selected 130 stands.

1h20 from Gare du Nord
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A historic Christmas in Senlis

Between the medieval town of Senlis, the Abbey of Chaalis, and the Château de Chantilly, just minutes away from each other, we can enjoy a unique historic and architectural escapade. All of it, of course, enhanced by absolutely magnificent decorations and animations: Christmas markets, equestrian shows, and even a workshop to learn how to properly whip up an authentic Chantilly cream. With so many options, it's the ideal place to spend the holidays with that friend who never agrees with anyone and always wants to do something different. Here, at least, there will be something for everyone's taste.

1h20 from Gare du Nord
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A rustic Christmas in Rambouillet

A market of exceptional products at the Bergerie Nationale, famous for its merino sheep (you know, those soft and comfortable wool sweaters), a huge ice rink in the city center, a Christmas village in the park of a museum, Rambouillet goes all out. And if there's snow, a little stroll in the forest of the same name is a must to fully enjoy the fresh air away from the capital.

50 minutes from Montparnasse
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