Christmas Markets in Metz, Thionville and Luxembourg: the guide to staying in the right place

Between Metz, Thionville and Luxembourg, you are right at the heart of a golden triangle of Christmas markets. Three different atmospheres, three cities dressed in lights — and all of it within easy reach from a single home base. Stay in Thionville and you are about 30 minutes from Metz and about 30 minutes from Luxembourg. One weekend is enough to enjoy all three — provided you book your accommodation at the right time.

Metz: one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France

The Metz Christmas market spreads across several squares in the city centre: Place d’Armes at the foot of the cathedral, Place Saint-Louis with its medieval arcades, and Place de la République with its Ferris wheel. The Sentier des Lanternes, a lantern trail much loved by families, completes the picture. Together, they make up one of the most visited Christmas markets in France.

On the menu: mulled wine and Lorraine specialities, artisan chalets, twinkling lights along the pedestrian streets, and Saint-Étienne Cathedral — nicknamed the “Good Lord’s lantern” for its stained glass — to visit between two stalls. Set aside a full evening: the market is at its most magical after dark.

Getting there: by TGV, Paris–Metz takes about 1 h 20. By car, the A31 motorway serves the city directly. For parking, go for the park-and-ride car parks on the outskirts or the covered car parks in the centre — on-street spaces are hard to come by in December.

When: usually from late November to 30 December (2026 dates to be confirmed). Our tip: book your accommodation as early as September–October — Advent weekends sell out very quickly.

Luxembourg: the Winterlights

In Luxembourg City, the end-of-year festivities go by the name of Winterlights. The markets set up on Place d’Armes and Place de la Constitution among others, with chalets, an ice rink depending on the edition, and illuminations throughout the UNESCO-listed old town. The atmosphere is international, and the stalls blend Luxembourgish traditions with treats from further afield.

Once there, wander between the chalets, try the Glühwäin (the local take on mulled wine) and enjoy the views over the fortifications — spectacular once they light up.

Getting there from Thionville: the direct train reaches Luxembourg City in about 30 minutes. A major plus: public transport is free throughout Luxembourg — once you arrive, buses and trams cost you nothing. The smart move: sleep on the French side. Accommodation is noticeably cheaper than in Luxembourg City, for a very short trip.

Thionville and the markets of the Three Borders region

In December, the heart of Thionville comes alive too: festive lights, end-of-year events and a holiday atmosphere in the pedestrian streets. It is more intimate than Metz or Luxembourg — and that is precisely the appeal: after the big crowds, you come home in the evening to a calm, human-scale town.

It is also the perfect starting point for a weekend circuit: Metz on Saturday, Luxembourg on Sunday, and Thionville’s festivities in the evening. Three atmospheres to enjoy without changing accommodation or repacking your bags.

Where to stay for the Christmas markets?

One important reminder: at this time of year, accommodation goes fast. Advent weekends are the most in-demand of the whole year in the region.

Stay in Metz, right by the market

The smart base camp: Thionville

Thirty minutes from both Metz and Luxembourg, with a direct train to the Winterlights, Thionville is the ideal position for exploring all three markets.

With family or a group

Fancy adding a moment of pure relaxation to the programme? L’Instant Bien-Être in Garche offers a private whirlpool bath and sauna for 2 guests, from €110 / night — perfect after a chilly day at the markets.

Your questions

When should I book for the Christmas markets?

From September–October to have the widest choice, especially if you are aiming for an Advent weekend. Properties sleeping 6 to 8 are the first to go. And by booking direct on our website, you also enjoy complimentary drinks and late checkout (subject to availability).

Can you visit all three markets in a single weekend?

Yes — that is the great advantage of the region. From Thionville: Metz on Saturday (about 30 minutes by car or train), Luxembourg on Sunday (direct train of about 30 minutes, then free public transport once there), and Thionville’s festivities in the evening.

We arrive late on Friday evening — is that possible?

Yes. All our properties offer self check-in, with access instructions sent before your stay. Arrive whenever suits you, with no in-person key handover.

Where can we park during the markets?

In Metz, go for the park-and-ride or covered city-centre car parks; Le Grand 8 benefits from free parking nearby (Q3 Park). In Thionville and Garche, parking is far easier than in the busiest hotspots. For Luxembourg, the most comfortable option remains the train from Thionville.

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