Christmas in the Alsace region of France is like a Christmas fairytale come true. It feels like you just stepped foot into your favorite Christmas storybook. There is nothing more magical than visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace.
Ever since we moved to Germany, I have been looking forward to visiting the Alsace region at Christmas. It is magical any time of the year, but it is even more enchanting at Christmas. With its twinkling lights, smell of hot mulled wine, and wooden chalets, it really is a Christmas fairytale. Set in some of the regions most picturesque towns and villages, visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace is a dream come true.
So settle in, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and read all about the best Christmas markets in Alsace!
What is the Alsace Region of France
Alsace is the Germanic region of France. It shares a border with Germany and Switzerland and the region’s culture is a unique mix of French, Swiss, and German influences. Alsace is well known for its wines, picturesque architecture, and Christmas markets.
It’s a wonderful place to visit anytime of the year. During the winter season, the Alsace is home to France’s largest and most famous Christmas Market. During the summer and fall seasons, tourists flock to the region to road trip along the famous Alsace Wine Route. We visited last summer and had the most magical time.
Related Post: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE FAIRYTALE VILLAGE OF COLMAR, FRANCE
When to visit the Christmas markets in Alsace
The Alsace Christmas markets begin the last week in November and last until Christmas. The markets are open daily during the advent season. We went the first week they were open in December. I recommend going on a weekday and getting their early to avoid the crowds.
How to get to Alsace
We are lucky and live right across the border in Germany so we visit the Alsace region as much as possible. With its location bordering Germany and Switzerland, you could fly into these countries as well as France. It’s only a few hours from several major airports. I highly recommend renting a car to explore all the markets in the area. You could also take the train but would not have as much flexibility.
Where to stay when visiting the Christmas markets in Alsace
I would recommend staying in either Strasbourg or Colmar to visit all the Christmas markets in Alsace. The other markets are smaller and have less options. Staying overnight will allow you to visit the markets early in the morning without the crowds.
We stayed at the Hilton Strasbourg and it was the perfect location. There is even a tram that will take you directly to and from the market.
If you are looking for a cute boutique hotel, Hotel St. Martin in Colmar is perfect. It’s in the perfect location to visit all the markets.
Strasbourg
Known as “Capitale de Noel“, or the Capital of Christmas, The Strasbourg Christmas market is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe! It’s like stepping into a Christmas market dream! With the Strasbourg cathedral as the backdrop for the Christmas market, it’s like taking a step back in time. You will find yourself surrounded by lights and decorations everywhere you look. Strasbourg is also home to the tallest real decorated Christmas tree in Europe. It towers over 30 feet tall and is absolutely magical lit up at night!
Everywhere you look there are wooden chalets serving up traditional fare like sausages, roasted chestnuts, crepes, and mulled wine. We tried a little bit of everything! We loved the crepes and flammkucken. There are also stalls full of unique handmade crafts and foods for sale.
Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are sprinkled throughout the city and each one has something unique to offer. If you collect mugs, we found the cutest Strasbourg mug at the market in front of the Cathedral!
The Strasbourg Christmas market is open every day from the last week in November to Christmas. You can check their website here for all the market information.
Colmar
The fairytale village of Colmar is the most magical place at Christmas! It feels just like you stepped into a real life Hallmark movie. We visited this cute village last summer and could not wait to come back for Christmas. Just an hour from Strasbourg, you can easily visit both markets. The markets are spread throughout the city and each one has a unique atmosphere. The wooden stalls are filled with delicious food, hot mulled mine, and handmade crafts from local vendors. There is something for everyone. There are even Christmas themed rides for the children.
Little Venice or “La petite Venice” is the most picturesque part of town and a must see. With its gorgeous colorful timbered houses lined along the canal, it’s the most romantic place to take pictures and enjoy the beauty of Colmar at Christmas. It’s called Little Venice because of the canals that run through the town. You can have lunch or dinner at one of the cafes along the canal. There is even outside seating areas that are over the water that would make for a very romantic dinner.
The Colmar Christmas markets open the last week in November and stay open until Christmas. You can check out all the information and dates here.
Riquewhir
Not far from Colmar, is the quaint village of Riquewihr. As you approach the village, there are fields of wine vineyards in every direction. Riquehwhir is a much smaller market but is one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. With its beautiful decorations and twinkling lights, it’s definitely not to be missed. It’s also home to one of the few Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas stores. So grab a cup of hot mulled wine and explore this magical village with its cobble stone streets and beautiful half timbered houses.
The Riquewihr Christmas market opens the last week in November and stays open until Christmas. Find out more information here.
Ribeauville
Ribeauville is a true medieval Christmas market. This fairytale village comes to life with street entertainers, jugglers, stilt walkers, and more. It’s truly a magical experience. It’s only open 2 weekends during the advent season so be sure to check the dates before you arrive. It can get crowded with it only being open a few days during the holiday season so get there early. At night when the lights come on, the streets of Ribeauville turn into your very own fairytale.
The Ribeauville Christmas market in usually open the first 2 weekends in December. Check here for more information.
Thank you for joining me on this magical Christmas market journey through the Alsace region of France! I hope that one day you are able to see it all for yourself. Merry Christmas!!
