A tradition that originated in France\u2019s Alsace region to the east of Paris in the 16th century, Christmas markets have grown in popularity in recent years. <\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Each year, France\u2019s dozens of markets\u2014with their quaint wooden stalls, flowing mulled wine and overpriced nativity scene figurines\u2014bring in an estimated 27 million visitors<\/a>, including 2 million at the original Christkindelsm\u00e4rik in Strasbourg alone. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

In Paris, some markets\u2014such as the ones at Notre Dame and Saint Germain Des Pres\u2014more or less emulate the original. Others\u2014for example, in La Defense or Clignancourt\u2014take on a new, modern approach. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

While each market has its unique advantage, this selection of the six best Christmas markets in Paris will surely fulfill everyone\u2019s need for holiday cheer. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n

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1. Gare de l\u2019Est<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

For a classic Alsatian market, there\u2019s no longer any need to go all the way to Strasbourg or Colmar. Located at the Gare de l\u2019Est, Paris\u2019s Alsatian Christmas market is the longest-standing outside of Alsace. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The market has a wealth of regional delicacies, from kougelhopf<\/em>, a type of brioche, to schiffel\u00e9<\/em>, a salted and steamed pork. Best of all: each day has a different free food or booze sample. Check out the list here<\/a>.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

2. Champ de Mars<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Located right in front of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars Christmas market certainly gives Strasbourg\u2019s a run for its money as well. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

With more than 60 stalls, an ice skating rink and of course the scintillating Eiffel tower as a backdrop, this market has the feel of a bustling town of its own. Unlike many of Paris\u2019 markets, which tend to close in the days right after Christmas, the Champ de Mars market stays open until January<\/a>\u2014good for the latecomers who booked their flight back home for several days after the winter rentr\u00e9e<\/em>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n