Many European destinations are a popular choice for the holiday season: Scores of quaint villages, charming towns and bustling cities glow with coziness and good cheer for the darkest and coldest months of the year, creating a winter wonderland setting straight out of a storybook. One excellent choice is Bordeaux, France. It’s home to numerous Christmas markets, yet has fewer visitors than more marquee destinations like London or Paris. Here's why you'll love Bordeaux during the holidays.
It's immediately apparent why Place des Quinconces, Bordeaux, is considered the main Christmas Market.
A City of Charming Markets
Several different Christmas markets can be found scattered throughout Bordeaux, ensuring there’s plenty of whimsical strolling while you visit. The largest and most popular by far is the Allées de Tourny Christmas Market — this is often considered the “official” Bordeaux Christmas Market. Located at the Place des Quinconces, it’s open every day from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. There are over 100 stalls to peruse, and each is stocked full of their own delicacies, handicrafts and tchotchkes. So whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect souvenir or simply window shopping, you’re awash in seasonal vibes. Of course, this isn’t the only market in town. Other options include:
- The Xmas Market in Darwin: Featuring sustainable stalls full of clothing, jewelry, artwork and organic food, this market prides itself on being alternative, responsible and true to the spirit of the former Niel barracks — a vibrant multicultural and ecofriendly space. Mulled wine and hot chocolate have never tasted so guilt-free.
- The Iboat Super Christmas Market: This market of colorful stalls stretches across Bordeaux’s most iconic boat; for one day only, you can meander through the treasures of French creators while sampling gourmet treats and lively music.
- The Green Market at Vivres de I’Art: This unique artistic hub was once an 18th-century slaughterhouse; now the historic monument hosts scores of ethical, plant-based gifts in addition to a dazzling array of artists’ studios, galleries and exhibition spaces.
European Christmas Market Cruises
Up to $400 Onboard Credit
Timeless Traditions
As with any holiday, traditions flourish, and Bordeaux is no different. The most visually stunning may well be the glass-and-steel Christmas tree on Place Pey-Berland; locals delight in the initial lighting ceremony as it brings a whole new meaning to the term “glow.” Food-wise, the staple to save room for is Bûche de Noël: a Yule log cake flavored with chocolate or other festive staples. Expect to find it across many booths.
Savor a slice or two of Yule log cake, courtesy of AmaWaterways.
Trade the ordinary for festive moments in Bordeaux.
Holiday Time with AmaWaterways
When it comes to navigating Bordeaux, you don’t have to go it alone. AmaWaterways offers itineraries specifically tailored for the holiday season, with stops at winter markets strung along the river like Christmas lights. Onshore experiences enmesh you in the local festivities, while onboard activities keep your spirits high between port visits.
Bordeaux at night radiates joy; a stroll through its peaceful streets is downright magic.
Give Yourself the Gift of Outsourcing Logistics
As blissful as a Christmas-season cruise might already sound, it can get even more magical: Trust your trip to our travel agents. We’ll work with you to decide on the itinerary that suits your interests and expectations, and then work tirelessly to make it happen, all while you kick back and simply look forward to your trip. Plus, thanks to strong working relationships with all the leading names in travel, we can often unlock exclusive perks, amenities, discounts and savings for you — a stocking stuffer on top of the gift of travel. Finally, the peace of mind we provide by being only a phone call away for the duration of your trip ensures you’ll be dreaming of sugar-plum fairies instead of tossing and turning and stressing about theoretical missed flights and other what-if’s.
