Enchanting Christmas Markets in Alsace

Alsace, in northeastern France, is renowned for its enchanting Christmas Markets. Easily accessible through Strasbourg’s airport, a high-speed train from Paris, or private transportation, Alsace offers a fairytale-like experience throughout the year with its charming wooden houses, vineyards, and cobblestone streets. However, the winter season in Alsace is truly magical, thanks to its celebrated Christmas markets.

The Christkindelsmärik tradition (Christmas market in English), originating in Strasbourg in 1570, has turned Alsace into a winter wonderland from November 24th to December 24th. Each city adds its unique charm to the Christmas market experience.

Strasbourg’s Christmas Markets

Strasbourg’s reputation as the ‘Capital of Christmas’ is well-earned, with approximately 13 Christmas markets scattered throughout the old town. Authenticity and craftsmanship are on display throughout the city. You can wander through various stalls while enjoying a warm cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate. Don’t forget to visit Place Broglie and take a selfie with the 30-meter Christmas tree in Place Kléber Square. Marvel at the bright lights against the night sky and take your time searching for the perfect treasures to place under your tree.

Photo credit: Tourism Center Alsace

Colmar’s town center is mostly pedestrian and boasts numerous architectural gems, including monuments, churches, museums, and alleys with imposing buildings dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. The entire town is adorned like a dream, turning the old center into an open-air theater where the cozy Christmas spirit fills the heart of the town. If you’re a food enthusiast, be sure to explore Colmar’s Gourmet Market and savor Alsatian favorites like gingerbread. For a unique addition to your Christmas tree, visit the Christmas balls of Meisenthal market. You can also visit Place Jeanne d’Arc for gingerbread, foie gras, and other delectable treats.

Colmar, the most sparkling Christmas Market

Photo credit: Tourism Center Alsace

Eguisheim, the Authentic Christmas Markets

Eguisheim offers an intimate Christmas market that focuses on Alsatian customs and traditions. Various themes are celebrated throughout the season. This Christmas market has earned the label “Christmas Towns and Villages,” acknowledging its authenticity and rich heritage. In Eguisheim, the emphasis is on around thirty craftsmen and creators, who present tempting stalls and glittering houses. Eguisheim is the perfect place to create cherished memories and experience the magic of Christmas in Alsace.

Kaysersberg, the Medieval Christmas Markets

As night falls, this imperial city is adorned with Christmas lights. You’ll be greeted by the aromas of cinnamon and mulled wine as you stroll through the old town’s streets. Discover artisanal products and meet talented creators in charming wooden chalets set against an authentic 17th-century backdrop at the foot of the castle ruins. A joyful and festive atmosphere pervades all four Advent weekends. You won’t be able to resist the delectable specialties: “bredeles,” the famous Christmas almond biscuits, sweet or savory kougelhopfs (ring cakes made with brioche), “beraweckas” (fruitcakes), and “mannalas” (little brioche men), all accompanied by a steaming cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Photo credit: Tourism Center Alsace

Riquewihr, the Traditional Christmas Markets

Riquewihr, renowned for its well-preserved heritage and architecture, is an essential stop for exploring Alsace. It is one of the most beautiful villages in France. During the Christmas season, the city comes alive with light, offering a traditional Christmas market in a magical setting that blends the spirit of Christmas with the charm that defines Alsace. Streets adorned with sparkling decorations, illuminated facades and monuments, and the bustling shops of the Christmas market all come together to recreate the world of childhood, filled with memories and emotion.

Photo credit: Tourism Center Alsace

Header Photo credit: Tourism center Alsace

About the Author

Stephanie Burtin is a Personal Travel Designer, originally from Lyon, the Gastronomy Capital of France, and currently based in Los Angeles. Her life is a perpetual exploration driven by her deep love for travel and her homeland France. Driven by these passions, she founded Osprey Boutique Travel, specializing in creating exclusive custom "voyage" to France, tailored to each clients' unique personality and wishes. During her leisure, she loves to immerse readers in the French "Art de Vivre" by sharing her knowledge about France and her beautiful pictures brought from her travels.