Arras captivates visitors with unique Christmas market experience
- Arras is located in northern France and boasts a rich history linked to Renaissance art and textiles.
- The city's local economy thrives on weekly markets and culinary specialties including French fries and craft beer.
- Arras is becoming increasingly popular for visitors during the holiday season, particularly for its Christmas market.
In France's northern Pas-de-Calais region, Arras has become an appealing destination for travelers, especially during the holiday season. Once a significant center for Renaissance art, textiles, and wool, Arras still maintains a market-town atmosphere, characterized by its two cobbled squares bustling with traders twice weekly. The city, located 36 miles southwest of Lille, offers attractions such as the Wellington Quarry, where First World War tunnels showcase its historical significance, particularly as a strategic location near the Western Front. The Citadel of Arras, a 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage site designed by famous architect Vauban, also draws visitors seeking to explore its architecture and historical context. With a special emphasis on local culinary delights, Arras brands itself as the home of French fries, accompanied by an array of bars serving craft beer, making it an intriguing choice for holiday getaways.