When winter comes, we think of the cold, raclettes and the Christmas period which is fast approaching! To rediscover all the magic of Christmas, without going as far as Lapland, or even leaving France, a visit to the Christmas markets in Alsace is a must. They usually take place between the end of November and the end of December. To make the most of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Alsace, I suggest a trip in the form of a road trip from North to South, from Strasbourg to Colmar.
Summary:
> The most beautiful Christmas markets in Alsace:
- Strasbourg, an unmissable Christmas market in Alsace
- The Christmas Market in Obernai
- Barr Christmas Market
- Ribeauvillé, an original Christmas market
- Riquewihr, a Christmas market in the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in France
- Visit the Kaysersberg Christmas market in Alsace
- Turckheim, an authentic Christmas market
- Alsatian Christmas market: Colmar
> Practical advice for visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace
> My opinion on the Christmas markets in Alsace
Strasbourg, an unmissable Christmas market in Alsace
The Strasbourg Christmas market, a must in Alsace, is a secular institution over 400 years old. It is the oldest Christmas market in France and Europe. It is also the best known and appreciated Christmas Market in Alsace thanks to its history and authenticity. Indeed, the city of Strasbourg is committed to preserving, supporting and showcasing Alsatian and French craftsmanship. This market is spread over several squares across the city.
Place Kleber
It is on Place Kleber, a few streets from the Cathedral and in the heart of the city, that the Christmas tree is erected each year. More than 30 meters high, and decorated with a thousand lights, it is the symbol of the city during this period. On this square, the Christmas market brings together solidarity, humanitarian and animal associations. It is also on this square that the illuminations of the city are triggered and that the opening of the Christmas market is declared.
Place de la cathédrale
The Cathedral and its square are home to the most beautiful and authentic Christmas market in the city. The smell of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the air in the orderly paths between the little wooden chalets. For each chalet, there is a craftsman at heart to offer a quality product. You will find everything you need to decorate your Christmas tree, provide it as a gift or taste gingerbread or the traditional pretzel.
Castle Square
The place du château, the place du Vieux-Marché-aux-Poissons, and the rue de Rohan also host their small markets. There is also the famous "Christkindlmarkt" in Alsatian which means "market of the child Jesus", place Broglie. They are spread all over the large island of Strasbourg and will take you through the small cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses.
Place Grimmeissen
For a slightly different, original, but no less welcoming market, you will find the OFF market on Place Grimmeissen. It is a solidarity and environmentally friendly Christmas market that reconciles consumption and commitment.
All these markets are best enjoyed with a good mulled wine and delicious bredele (name of the typical Christmas cookies from the region – pronounced brèdeuleu)!
Practical tip:
Park in the relay car parks located all around the city. In addition to a parking space, you benefit from a round trip by tram and/or bus for all passengers in the vehicle. They avoid traffic jams and parking lots in the city center, which are often crowded at this time of year.
The Christmas Market in Obernai
Further south, located far from the bustle of Strasbourg and at the foot of Mont Saint Odile, the small town of Obernai combines friendliness and authenticity with a Christmas market on a human scale. The latter is located on the Place du Marché and extends to Place du Beffroi. There are culinary specialties such as the mulled white wine typical of the city of Obernai. It is served with a ladle from the cauldron which keeps it warm. The Church of Saints Peter and Paul organizes an exhibition of cribs whose theme is dedicated to a different country or region each year.
Practical tip:A free shuttle runs on weekends from the various car parks located on the outskirts of the town and from the VVF campsite, to the Obernai Christmas Market in the town centre.
Barr Christmas Market
The Barr Christmas market in Alsace is the meeting place for gourmets and the curious. Indeed, local craftsmen offer you something to decorate your table, fill it with delicious food and something to put some original gifts under the tree. It unfolds on the place of the town hall and even in this one. All the wonders are found in this Christmas market in Alsace thanks to more than 50 exhibitors present. At nightfall, you can accompany the night watchman in the alleys of the village for a tour of secrets and legends between magnificent Alsatian half-timbered houses illuminated.
Ribeauvillé, an original Christmas market
Here, the spirit of Christmas is combined with the past since it is a medieval Christmas market. Walkabouts, peasants and dancers are there to make you experience the most total change of scenery, in a festive atmosphere. Other mythical and legendary creatures roam the city at night. Medieval specialties, served by merchants in period costumes, are de rigueur. On this Christmas market in Alsace, you will taste wild boar accompanied by a glass of cervoise or wine. Sweets, delicacies, small Alsatian cakes and handicrafts are not to be outdone and nicely adorn the small wooden chalets of the market.
Practical tip:At Christmas, as in all Alsatian villages at this time, car parks are very popular. To save you from going around in circles for hours, Colmar offers a Christmas shuttle that will allow you to go to the Christmas markets of Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg.
Riquewihr, a Christmas market in the heart of one of the most beautiful villages in France
Riquewihr during the Christmas period is the Christmas spirit par excellence. This Christmas market in Alsace is particularly beautiful since it combines the magic of Christmas and a preserved village center with typical Alsatian half-timbered houses. They are richly and beautifully decorated in the Christmas season. The illuminations are everywhere and the atmosphere is magical. The smells of hot chestnuts, gingerbread and mulled wine complete the picture. Here, as everywhere else, artisans are present and happy to make you taste, try, touch and admire their products. I think it's the most beautiful Christmas market in Alsace, for young and old, because it reflects all the magic of Christmas in an exceptional setting. Enough to put stars in your eyes.
Practical tip:As before, a shuttle from Colmar offers trips to Riquewihr on Christmas market weekends.
Visit the Kaysersberg Christmas market in Alsace
Kaysersberg, imperial village, whose translation means "Mountain of the Emperor", is located in a setting of greenery and vines, dominated by its ruined castle. The craftsmen are carefully selected and always offer you more delicacies. Between the kougelhopf, the berawecka or the mannele, your taste buds will not know what to choose. The chalets stretch between the Cour de l'Arsenal and behind the Sainte-Croix Church, or Place de la Mairie at the farmers' Christmas market. What to find this original or gourmet gift to put under the tree. Both for others and for yourself!
Practical tip:Christmas market also served by shuttle from Colmar
Turckheim, an authentic Christmas market
Small village at the entrance to the valley, and rich in historic buildings, it will make you experience Christmas in the middle of the vineyards. A magical decor will welcome you in the middle of wooden houses and elves crisscrossing the city center. In addition to the magical setting and atmosphere of Christmas in this Christmas market in Alsace, come and discover the night watchman of Turckheim. The tradition of the night watchman is passed down from father to son. With him, you will go to wish good night to each of the inhabitants of the city. He will offer you, with humor, some secrets, stories and anecdotes about the village and its inhabitants. A magical and timeless moment.
Taste local wine!
And if your stay in Alsace was the opportunity to taste one of the specialties of the region? Thanks to the Rue des Vignerons platform, choose the city and/or the winemaker and visit a cellar, taste (in moderation) their production and why not, bring back a few bottles! See tours
Alsatian Christmas market: Colmar
Colmar is the capital of Alsace wines, a nickname gained from its position in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards. During the Christmas markets in Alsace, in Colmar, the illuminations particularly highlight its historic buildings and monuments. The Christmas market is nestled in this setting to add the smells of cinnamon, anise and orange. It is divided into 6 markets distributed as follows:
- the Place des Dominicains, more devoted to interior decorations and Christmas tree decorations;
- the magnificently illuminated former customs square;
- Place Jeanne d'Arc for a traditional market;
- the “Little Venice” dedicated to children;
- the Koïfhus indoor market;
- and the cathedral square for the gourmet market.
Each of the markets offers an intimate and unique atmosphere thanks to their different specificities.
Practical tip:To avoid overcrowded car parks in the city, you can park at the exhibition center which offers free park and ride every weekend and shuttles to the city center. The latter drop you off next to the Christmas market every 10 minutes and then pick you up to go back to the Parc des Expositions.
Practical advice for visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace
- How to come to Alsace?
- When to come to see the Christmas markets in Alsace?
- Where to sleep to visit the Alsatian Christmas markets?
How to come to Alsace?
To get to Alsace, different possibilities are available to you. First of all, you can perfectly arrive by car. Alsace is well served by various motorways whether from the north of France, from Paris or from the regions located in the south of Alsace.
The other way to get to Alsace is to get there by train. Many stations are well served: Strasbourg, Colmar, Sélestat, Barr, etc.
Once there, you can absolutely rent a car if you want to get around the region.
When to come to see the Christmas markets in Alsace?
Most Christmas markets are held between end of November and end of December. Opening hours and days may vary from market to market and from year to year. I invite you to consult the website below to confirm the opening dates and times during your visit.
See the dates and times of the Christmas markets in Alsace
Where to sleep to visit the Alsatian Christmas markets?
Here is an important question if you want to stay at least one night to take full advantage of the different Christmas markets: where to sleep to visit the most beautiful Alsatian Christmas markets?
You will find below the strategic places from which you can radiate to the smaller villages.
Sleep in Strasbourg
Let's start with accommodation in Strasbourg. Whether you come to visit the Strasbourg Christmas market, or Strasbourg is a stopover during your stay in Alsace, here you will find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Strasbourg and to be able to take full advantage of the city's Christmas market.
Hotel & Spa Regent Petite France
Let's start with a must in the pretty city of Strasbourg: the Hotel & Spa Régent Petite France. This establishment is located in the heart of the Petite France district. The location is perfect for visiting the city and enjoying the Christmas markets in the various squares. Upscale, Spa Show prices
Hotel Diana Dauphine
This second accommodation suggestion is also very well located to take full advantage of the city and its Christmas markets. The services are complete and of high quality. The rooms, comfortable and clean. And the whole hotel is well decorated and trendy! A great address in Strasbourg. Mid range See prices
Pier 17 Guest House
Let's end this selection of accommodation with a magnificent bed and breakfast in the heart of Strasbourg as well. The welcome is wonderful, the decoration very neat, the room comfortable and the breakfast exquisite. The perfect address to visit the Strasbourg Christmas market! Bed and Breakfast See rates
Obernai
The next town that I recommend for your visit to the Alsatian Christmas markets will be the town of Obernai, south of Strasbourg. Stopping by this city can be a good idea because it is pleasant and worth a detour. Here is our selection of accommodation.
Le Parc Hotel Obernai & Yonaguni Spa
Among the most beautiful establishments in the city, here is a must: the Parc Hôtel located in Obernai and its magnificent Yonaguni spa. This place is absolutely remarkable. Of high standing, you can enjoy a very comfortable establishment but also the spa, which has some great surprises in store for you! Located not far from the city center, you can enjoy the calm of the place while having the possibility of going to the center to visit the Obernai Christmas market. Upscale, Spa Show prices
The Governor Hotel
Let's continue with this very beautiful establishment, located in the heart of Obernai. This hotel offers more reasonable prices, but your stay will be no less good, on the contrary! The rooms are comfortable and clean, the person is very welcoming, everything is located in a magnificent house perfectly renovated and offering typical rooms of the region. A very nice address in Obernai. Mid range See prices
L'Ecurie Obernai
I take you once again to discover a bed and breakfast. Located in Obernai, it is ideal if you want to visit the city and its Christmas market. This bed and breakfast is very friendly and pleasant. Equipped with a pretty swimming pool and an outdoor space, the duplex room and the breakfast will also charm you! Bed and Breakfast See rates
Ribeauvillé
Let's continue our itinerary to discover the most beautiful Christmas markets in Alsace and make a stop in the town of Ribeauvillé. The latter is ideal if you are looking for a place to stay for a weekend.
Le Clos Saint-Vincent
This is a wonderful address for a stay in the region. Located in the middle of the vineyards, the view is exceptional. This top-of-the-range hotel offers you services such as a swimming pool, gym, restaurant, etc. Beautiful, spacious and typical rooms await you. In addition, you are close to the center of Ribeauvillé, perfect for visiting the Christmas market. Top-of-the-range, Vineyards See the prices
Hotel Barrière Ribeauville
For this place, I suggest two high-end hotels. This one is a little out of the way of Ribeauvillé, but offers you an absolutely breathtaking setting, in the heart of Alsatian nature. The hotel also has a wonderful spa. This hotel is of high quality, offers top-of-the-range services and a warm welcome. A very nice address in the Alsatian region. Upscale, Spa Show prices
Hotel De La Tour
Let's finish on accommodation in Ribeauvillé with this small hotel, more accessible than the two previous ones. Located in the heart of Ribeauvillé, it is ideal for visiting the city, its Christmas market but also the surroundings. A small spa is available to customers, the rooms are comfortable and the staff very welcoming! A nice address with a very interesting price/quality ratio. Mid range See prices
Colmar
The last city that I can recommend to you will be the city of Colmar. Charming little town with its Christmas market and its Alsace wines, it is worth the detour!
1834 & Spa
I take you here to discover a very charming and original place. These are individual apartments that you can rent for 2 to 4 people. Perfectly decorated, very well equipped, you also have a spa area at your disposal. A very nice address, very well located in Colmar. Upscale, Apartments Check rates
Hotel Le Marechal
Here is a very pretty hotel with typical Alsatian charm, just next to Little Venice. Located in a very well renovated old building, the hotel Le Marechal is comfortable and very pleasant for a stay in Colmar. Delicious breakfast and warm welcome are waiting for you! Charming hotel See rates
Paul & Pia
I will end this section on accommodation for visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace with this establishment which is original to say the least! Offering attractive rates, this recent hotel with an astonishing but successful decoration welcomes you to the heart of Colmar. Comfortable, very clean, the rooms are spacious and the breakfast buffet is delicious. No fault for this hotel. Mid range See prices
My opinion on the Christmas markets in Alsace
The Christmas market that amazes me every time is that of Riquewhir for its exceptional setting. My favorite mulled wine is the white, that of Obernai, typical of the city. I love wandering from little houses to little houses in Colmar, hot chestnuts in hand. As you will have understood, I am in love with the atmosphere and the magic of Christmas and for me Alsace and the spirit of Christmas are one. All the Christmas markets in Alsace are worth seeing, because they all have their charm and their identity thanks to the city that hosts them. Choose just a few, and the magic of Christmas will engulf you completely. Visit them all and you won't get tired of them.
