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If you want to give yourself a 100% Christmas and cozy getaway, we invite you to cross the border in your motorhome and enjoy Christmas in the south of France.

The medieval towns, rugged nature, gastronomy and tradition at this time of year They turn it into a tourist attraction that will leave you wanting more.

Stay with us and you will discover that it is not necessary to be in Alsace at Christmas or Black Forest at Christmas to enjoy an authentic Christmas market. We propose a short, but intense, route through the south of France that you can stretch as long as your vacation allows.

Let's start, grab the wheel that we are going to prepare this trip in a camper, caravan or motorhome!

and if you want more routes through France by motorhome be sure to check out this post on our blog, you have more than 20!

Things to keep in mind before traveling this route through the South of France in a motorhome In Christmas

To travel to France today you only need your Valid ID or passport.

Also, for medical issues you must take the European sanitary card in force, although you should know that in France there is a medical copay for foreigners in most things.

For this reason, and due to various experiences of colleagues, we decided to always carry a medical travel insurance that for the cost that it has (2 euros per day) we go safe and calm. We always take out Iati getaways insurance that is designed for family travel in a motorhome or camper, which apart from medical insurance even includes accident insurance for the pets you travel with or even a small interior theft insurance for the motorhome.

For the price it is really worth it and more with the Covid around here still. Without commitment we leave you here a discount of 5% of the insurance What do we tell you in case you want to ask for a quote at a better price and by the way if you hire it through this link you help our blog. Although rest assured that we recommend it because we use it and it is the best travel insurance right now on the market for motorhomes and it is not expensive at all.

And now, we are already on the road, our route awaits us!

Video of a 4-day Christmas route through the South of France in a motorhome

9-day route through the South of France at Christmas in a motorhome

Barcarès

Your first stop is in Le Barcarès, a beautiful French town and commune dedicated to fishing and tourism, which at Christmas becomes one of the largest markets in the south of France, just 2 hours from Barcelona.

The call Village Noel It is a space of 20.000 m2 where each year a Christmas town is recreated with a spectacular staging and endless attractions that include Ferris wheels, carousels and skating rinks.

The Christmas park will open its doors this year from November 24 to January 8, 2023. Tickets can only be purchased in the park itself and the price is subject to whether or not you want to skate inside the park. In this way, admission without the skating option is free for all children under 11 years of age and, for those over that age, it costs €2 or €5 depending on the day of the week you go, weekdays or weekends. week or holiday. If, on the other hand, you want to use the skating rink, it will amount to €10 or €13 per person. Also, you should know that once inside you also have to pay for practically everything, attractions or purchases you make.

We recommend not stopping at the first places you find in the venue to get tickets, since they are usually the ones that accumulate the most queues. Instead, approach those closest to the front door. The park's hours are from 11:02 in the morning to 00:XNUMX in the morning and, of course, the best time to visit it is when it starts to get dark and highlights all the fabulous lighting of the park.

Park and spend the night in a motorhome in Le Bacarès at Christmas

You can always park in one of the free car parks, just 5 minutes' walk from the venue, in which overnight stays are not allowed. To stay overnight, there are some options. is the Air Campsite Le Barcarès, a payment area located in the marina with lighting, with services, spacious and very quiet. Also, you have a sandy parking lot near the port and the beach without services. From these two locations, you can reach the Village Noël taking bus No. 10. Finally, there is the Campsite Naia Village, but it is not comfortable if you do not have a separate vehicle, since no public transport leaves from there.

What we recommend is to park in one of the car parks in le Village for your visit and then move to the Bacarés motorhome area for the night, it will surely be the most practical.

Although if you don't mind walking, you can go directly to the area and take a walk of almost 30 minutes to the Village or wait for the little train that runs on weekends and passes in front of the area, although it stops running at night soon and surely It will not go very well for you, as it did for us.

Narbonne

Your next goal is 40 minutes away, in the beautiful Roman and medieval city of Narbonne. The historic center of this city is divided in two by the Canal de la Robine, a branch of the Canal du Midi with a length of 32 km.

North of Canal de la Robine, in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, rises the Archbishops Palace, currently the city hall and headquarters of the Art and Archeology museums. Also on the left is the Gilles Aycelin tower, a tower of the s. XIII raised on the remains of the Gallo-Roman wall that surrounded the city (wrapped with a huge red bow at Christmas) and to the right, it shows the Saint Martial tower, which leads us to Passage of the Anchor and, through him, Madeleine Court, from where the old and new parts of the Archbishops Palace. 

El Passage of the Anchoradorned with Christmas trees of different colors throughout its route, it is identified by having an anchor on the door, as its name indicates, since in the Middle Ages, it was the ideal location for the fish market due to its temperature and be a place sheltered from the sun.

In front of the Town Hall, you can see a part of the Roman road Via Domitia, the first Roman road built in Gaul with the mission of facilitating the transport of the Roman legions from Italy to the Hispanic provinces and Transalpine Gaul itself.

Narbonne and its elegance

You can also visit the third tallest cathedral in France, the Cathedral of Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur, a wonderful Gothic-style monument, although unfinished because its construction could not be continued due to the presence of the Roman wall. And speaking of Narbonne's Roman age, you can't overlook the Horreum, some underground galleries from the s. I BC, which is supposed to have been used as food storage and which currently constitutes the only Roman construction that remains standing in the city. Come closer, too, to Le forum square, ancient Roman forum of the city that contains a replica of the fountain that was in that place in the s. XVII.

South of Canal de la Robine, highlights the Pont des Marchants, through which the Villa Domitia and consisted of 7 arches. The square of the 4 fountains, a central point of the old medieval town and where now, you can find cozy restaurants and beautiful local shops. The Maison des Trois Nourrices It is one of the most important works of Renaissance private architecture and the churches also shine Basilica of Saint Paul (with Romanesque and Gothic traces), built on an old Paleo-Christian cemetery and Our Lady of Lamourguier, a beautiful example of Gothic and home to the Lapidary Museum. And finally, you can take a look around Halls, the emblematic covered market of the city and whose building dates from the beginning of the XNUMXth century. 

Christmas market

It is located on both banks of the canal and consists of 25 wooden huts where they sell food, churros, wine and chocolate, as well as clothing, Christmas objects and handicrafts. The market also offers varied attractions for both children and adults and is available from December 7 to January 5, from 10am to 19pm. Quite a sight to see the Place du Capitole full.

An extra tip to take advantage of to eat at "Les Grands Buffets" in Narbonne, although you must book weeks in advance.

Narbonne by motorhome

The reality is that Narbonne is not a very good place to park and spend the night in a motorhome. There are no areas or campsites and in most of the car parks there other colleagues describe motorhome thefts. For this reason, I advise you, like us, to stop to see the city in one of the car parks in the city with movement and in sight and go to spend the night elsewhere.

Béziers at Christmas

A jewel in the south of France, it is transformed into a magical setting during the Christmas season. With its historic charm and vibrant traditions, Béziers becomes a must-see destination for those who wish to experience Christmas in an authentically French setting.

Before arriving in Béziers we visited Sigean in motorhome, a good plan if you go with children who fall on the way.

Here we guide you through what you can't miss and how to make the most of your visit.

What to see in Béziers at Christmas

Christmas Market
The heart of Christmas in Béziers beats in its Christmas Market. Located on Allées Paul Riquet, this market is a charming mix of wooden stalls offering everything from local crafts to culinary delights. You cannot miss trying vin chaud (mulled wine), a traditional drink that will warm you on the cold December nights.

Saint-Nazaire Cathedral
The Saint-Nazaire Cathedral, with its imposing Gothic architecture, is illuminated with festive decorations. A walk here is not only a visual delight but also a journey through the history of Béziers. During Christmas, it often hosts concerts and choirs that resonate with festive melodies.

Les Allées Paul Riquet
The Allées Paul Riquet, one of the main avenues in Béziers, is dressed up with Christmas lights and decorations. Walking through here is like walking through a Christmas story, with festive music and the bustle of locals and visitors enjoying the season.

Old Bridge
The Old Bridge (Pont Vieux) over the Orb River offers one of the most iconic views of Béziers. During Christmas, its outline lights up, creating a wonderful spectacle that reflects the magic of the season in the calm waters of the river.

Béziers by motorhome

Béziers is accessible by motorhome, it has a magnificent motorhome area with all payment services and video surveillance. Once there, most attractions are within walking distance. 20 minutes you will reach the mChristmas market and the Garden of Poets.

For a more local experience, we recommend taking your bicycles and taking a route through the Midi Channel to the Malpas Tunnel passing through the UNESCO Heritage Fonserans Locks.

In short, Béziers at Christmas is a destination that offers a unique mix of history, culture and festivity. Here is a summary table to help you plan your visit:

Carcassonne

Less than an hour away, the Christmas market of this wonderful city of medieval origin, known by the name of The Magic of Noel, settles, from the beginning of December until after Kings, in 4 different areas, although close to each other, of the city: in Place Carnot, the most traditional Christmas market is located with around thirty stalls around the ice rink that surrounds the statue of Neptune; the Portal des Jacobins, hosts a small animal fair; The Place Géneral de Gaulle, where the so-called Parc du Père Noël is located, an amusement park for the whole family; and, finally, in the Place Eggenfeiden, inside the pavilion Halles Prosper Montagne, you can find numerous activities and inflatables.

But you will not have visited Carcassonne without having been to the Cité, the walled city and having visited its castle, one of the most beautiful in France. To visit the castle is better buy tickets here in advance.

In general, what I recommend is to do a guided tour of Carcassonne, so you don't miss anything and that I explain it to you in Spanish.

Carcassone park and spend the night in a motorhome

You can park and spend the night in an authorized bus and motorhome parking lot. Although without services, a 15-minute walk from the cité and free from 20:00 p.m. to 08:00 a.m. Also, there is an automated payment area (without electricity), which is part of the campsite Cite Carcassonne. It has 38 places and a water emptying service (the other services of the campsite cannot be used), for us the best option. Without an overnight stay, you can try your luck and try to park next to the Old Bridge, right in front of the Hotel des Trois Couronnes. Where there is a very wide street of free parking.

Castres

Castres, a charming town in the south of France, dresses up during the Christmas season, offering a unique experience to its visitors. For us one of the best Christmas markets and beautiful cities at Christmas in the South of France.

With its christmas market, historical architecture and festivities, Castres It becomes an ideal destination to enjoy the Christmas spirit. Here we offer you a guide on what to see and how to visit Castres at Christmas.

Christmas marketss

There are 2 Christmas markets in 2 of its main squares, and neither is small.

El Christmas Market The main town of Castres is a central point of the celebrations. Located in the Jean Jaurès Square, this market is a haven of joy and color. The decorated booths sell everything from local crafts to typical gastronomic delights of the region. While you explore, don't forget to try the hot wine (mulled wine), a drink that will warm your soul on cold winter nights.

The Agout River and its Hanging Houses

One of the most emblematic views of Castres are the hanging houses on the Agout River. During Christmas, these picturesque houses and the river itself shine with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere where 18 hours they make a beautiful Christmas light and sound show. A walk along the riverbank is a perfect way to enjoy the city and its unique architecture.

Goya Museum

El Goya Museum It is another point of interest in Castres. Although not directly related to Christmas, it is a fantastic place to visit if you are interested in art and culture. The museum houses the largest collection of Spanish art in France, including works by Goya, making it a culturally enriching site.

Saint Benedict's Cathedral

La St. Benedict's Cathedral It is another place that you cannot miss. During Christmas, the cathedral is illuminated and often hosts Christmas events and concerts that resonate from its ancient walls, offering a unique spiritual and cultural experience.

Castres in atocaravan

Castres It does not have any motorhome area nor parking reserved for motorhomes, but everything and so you can park in one of their parking lots next to the river, although for To spend the night we recommend you go to Mazament or Albí with a safer, flat and quiet motorhome area to sleep in. The city is compact, so many of its attractions are a short walk from wherever you are.

Botton line, Castres at Christmas offers an enchanting experience with its Christmas market, beautiful architecture and festive activities. Here is a summary table to help you plan your visit:

Albi

Albí, a picturesque town in the south of France, comes to life during the Christmas season, enveloping itself in a festive atmosphere that enchants its visitors. Known for its impressive architecture and rich heritage, Albi It transforms into a magical destination at Christmas. Since his famous christmas market to its historical monuments, here we present how to enjoy the city during these special dates.

Christmas Market

El Christmas Market Albí is a mandatory stop. Located in the Place du Vigan, this market is filled with wooden booths that display artisanal products, unique gifts and gastronomic delights. While you walk through the market, don't forget to enjoy a hot wine to warm the body and spirit on cold winter nights.

Saint Cecilia Cathedral

La Saint Cecilia Cathedral, a gem of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO heritage site, is even more impressive during the Christmas season with its festive lighting. It's fascinating to explore inside, where you'll find magnificent frescoes and a historic organ often used for Christmas concerts.

Toulouse-Lautrec Museum

For art lovers, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum It is a must see. This museum houses the largest collection of works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, the famous painter born in Albí. Although not directly related to Christmas, it offers a nice cultural break from the festivities.

Bridges of Albi

The bridges of Albi, especially the Pont Vieux and the Pont Neuf, are wonderful to walk around and enjoy the views of the River Tarn. During Christmas, the lights and decorations add a special touch to these walks, making each walk a magical experience.

Local Gastronomy

Gastronomy in Albí is another of the great attractions. Restaurants and market stalls offer traditional dishes and local specialties. Don't miss the opportunity to try the foie gras, cassoulet, or the typical Christmas sweets of the region.

How to Visit by motorhome Albi

Albí is accessible by motorhome, it has a large free motorhome area 30 minutes from the center on foot, with all the necessary services, except electricity.

In short, not to be missed, Albí at Christmas is a destination that offers a perfect combination of history, culture and festivity. Below, we present a summary table for your visit:

Attractive	Description	Recommendation
Christmas Market	Booths with crafts and food	Don't miss the vin chaud
Saint Cecilia Cathedral	Illuminated Gothic architecture	Visit during a concert
Toulouse-Lautrec Museum	Works by a famous local painter	For art lovers
Bridges of Albi	Views of the River Tarn	Night walk with Christmas lights
Local Gastronomy	Regional delicacies	Try foie gras and cassoulet

Enjoy the magic and charm of Christmas in Albí, where every corner tells a story and every experience becomes a precious memory. Happy Holidays!

Toulouse at Christmas

Following our tour of the interior of France, in just over an hour you reach Toulouse. One of the largest cities in the south of France and the place where La Cité de l'Espace is located, a museum-theme park about space and its conquest that cannot go unnoticed. There you can visit real-scale models of the rocket Ariane 5, mir space station and spacecraft modules Soyuz. Also, it has a 140-seat planetarium and numerous exhibits, some of them interactive. You can get tickets at following link .

In addition, Toulouse is a beautiful city that deserves a visit. The so-called pink city. In order not to miss anything in the city, it is best to do a Toulouse Free Walking Tour. A free guided tour that you give a tip at the end, where they will tell you all their history and take you to see their essentials. Although if you prefer there are themed guided tours and even on bikes that you can book. here

toulouse christmas market

But we have come to Toulouse, above all, for its Christmas market, which opens its doors in the Capitol Square (in the heart of the city) from November 24 to December 26. With an approximate schedule from 10:00 a.m. to 20:30 p.m., and can be extended until 22:00 p.m. on weekends. This market stands out from the rest for being food products and handicrafts, rather than Christmas decorations. In addition, just behind the Capitole building, another park is set up for the little ones in the family. Known by the name of Voyage to the country of Père Noël and where children can meet Santa Claus on specific days and times.

Toulouse park and spend the night in a motorhome

To park and spend the night, you can use the parking for motorhomes, without services, of the Cite de l'Espace, from where you can take a bus to get to the city center (approximately 5 km away).

The Montauban Lantern Festival at Christmas

Montauban is a town, located 1 hour from Toulousse, capital of the department of Tarn et Garonne, where you can also take the route that we did through its beautiful towns.

In this town, the Magic Lanterns show, made up of more than 15 lanterns, takes place from approximately December 15 to February 2.000. Here you can enjoy the famous lantern festival that will transport you to China itself, thanks to the collaboration of 80 Chinese Zigong artisans.

For this event, it is best to purchase tickets in advance at https://lanternes.festik.net/ as they wear out easily.

The Lanterns of Montauban by motorhome: park and spend the night

For parking and overnight stays, you can go to the motorhome area at the Montauban Canal port or to the parking lot they provide during the Festival.

And so far our proposal for Christmas! If you want to continue the route and discover more wonderful markets on these dates, keep us informed, we will be happy to read you in comments!

Another route through France at Christmas: down rhone

Another route through France at Christmas: Alsace at Christmas

Discover more than 20 routes through France by motorhome with this guide:

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