We continue to acquaint you with the bright and significant events that will take place before the end of 2025 in France.

La Carte Premium France experts have prepared a guide that will help you create an impeccable itinerary to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the most prestigious festivals and enjoy the best hotels and restaurants in the country.

1. Lyon: the capital of gastronomy and light

Festival Lumière (October 11-19, 2025)

The largest classical film festival dedicated to the legacy of the Lumiere brothers. The legends of world cinema are awarded.

Recommended hotels:
– InterContinental Lyon – Hotel Dieu: a magnificent historical monument on the banks of the Rhone, transformed into a luxurious modern hotel.
– Villa Maïa: minimalist boutique hotel with the best view of Lyon by architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte.
– Cour des Loges: a hotel in a complex of Renaissance buildings in the heart of Old Lyon.

Recommended restaurants:
– Paul Bocuse (2 Michelin stars, L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges): the temple of French gastronomy. A legendary establishment that every gourmet must visit.
– Pierre Brazier (2 Michelin stars): the cradle of Lyon cuisine, where the spirit of the founding mother Eugenie Brazier reigns.
– Takao Takano (2 Michelin stars): The Japanese chef masterfully interprets French cuisine with incredible precision and elegance.

Fête des Lumières (December 5-8, 2025)

A magical festival of light that transforms the entire city for 4 days. Buildings, squares, and parks become canvases for light installations.

Recommended hotels (we strongly recommend booking in advance!):
– Le Royal Lyon MGallery: ideal location between Bellecourt Square and the Presquille Peninsula.
– Boscolo Lyon Hotel & Spa: elegant design and spa center with swimming pool for relaxing after walks.
– Fourvière Hôtel Lyon: Located on a hill overlooking the city, the best point to watch the light shows.

Recommended restaurants:
– Le Neuvième Art (2 Michelin stars): creative and avant-garde cuisine from chef Christophe Ruhr.
– Prairial (1 Michelin star): The young team offers a vibrant and modern menu based on local seasonal produce.
– Daniel et Denise: authentic Lyon bouchon with generous traditional cuisine from Joseph Viola.

2. La Rochelle: a seaside holiday

* Grand Pavois (September 23-28, 2025)

Europe’s largest exhibition of yachts and boats on the water. A festival for true sailing and inflatable fleet enthusiasts.

Recommended hotels:
– La Monnaie Arty & Spa: a design hotel in the city center with its own art gallery and spa.
– Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites: a stylish hotel with interiors inspired by the famous brand.
– Novotel La Rochelle Centre: a reliable modern option with a good location.

Recommended restaurants:
– Christopher Coutanceau (3 Michelin stars): chef-fisherman, offering seafood dishes of the highest level. Ocean view and impeccable service.
– Les Flots: an iconic restaurant on the beach with a terrace right by the water. The perfect place to dine on the freshest oysters.
– Iséo: modern creative cuisine from a young talented chef in the heart of the port.

3. Alsace: a Christmas tale

* Strasbourg & Colmar Christmas Markets (November – December 2025)

The oldest and most atmospheric Christmas markets in Europe. Wooden houses, the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread, decorated streets create a unique feeling of celebration.

Recommended establishments in Strasbourg (“The Capital of Christmas”):
– Hotels: Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île, historic center; Maison Rouge, Art Deco style; Regent Petite France in the most picturesque quarter.
– Restaurants: Au Crocodile (1 Michelin star), Alsace Gastronomic Institute; 1741 (1 Michelin star) in a historic building opposite the cathedral; Umami, modern Asian cuisine.

Recommended establishments in Colmar (fairytale village):
– Hotels: La Maison des Têtes, built in 1609; L’esquisse Hôtel & Spa, modern design; Le Colombier Suites, apartments in a half-timbered house.
– Restaurants: JY’S (2 Michelin stars), the highest level of gastronomy from Jean-Yves Schillinger; La Table de Louise, elegant and modern; L’Atelier du Peintre (1 Michelin star), creative cuisine in a unique interior.

4. Practical advice from A La Carte Premium experts

Book in advance: hotel rooms and restaurant tables are sold out for many months during the festivals, especially in Cannes, Saint-Tropez, as well as for Christmas in Alsace.
Dress code: Elegant casual or smart casual is preferred for evening events and high-end restaurants. Some clubs and gala dinners may require a formal suit.

Transfers: we recommend renting a car with a driver or using helicopter transfers between Nice and Cannes/Saint Tropez to avoid wasting time and traffic jams.

Michelin stars: when booking a table in restaurants with 2 and 3 Michelin stars, specify the cancellation and prepayment conditions.

Enjoy an unforgettable year in France, where every event will be an exquisite journey.

BOOKING:

Ekaterina Kanevskaya
[email protected]