The Christmas markets in Alsace are among the most atmospheric and traditional in Europe. Set between half-timbered houses, glowing lights, and the scent of mulled wine and spices, the region turns into a winter wonderland each year. From Colmar and Strasbourg to Eguisheim and Kaysersberg, every town offers its own unique charm, blending French elegance with Alsatian traditions.
Perfect for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a festive food adventure, these markets invite you to fully embrace the Advent season. Anyone who loves Christmas and fairytale old towns will find one of France’s most beautiful holiday traditions here.
cozy villages, handmade gifts, and glowing streets
Alsace stretches along the border with Germany, between the Rhine River and the Vosges Mountains. Its most famous towns include Strasbourg, the region’s capital, known for its stunning huge cathedral and festive Christmas market.
One of the most famous and beautiful places here is Colmar, often called the “Little Venice” for its canals and picturesque streets. Don’t forget Eguisheim, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg, quaint villages with medieval charm, enchanting places in Alsace.
What makes it so special?
Food culture: From tarte flambée and hearty sausages to pretzels, sweets and mulled wine – the region is a paradise for food lovers.
Strasbourg is the capital of Christmas. Its Christmas market is one of the oldest and most famous in Europe and rightly bears the title “Capital of Christmas.” Numerous lovingly decorated market stalls surround the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral, offering traditional crafts, festive decorations, regional arts and crafts, and delicious specialties. The aroma of hot mulled wine, cinnamon, freshly baked pretzels and many other delicacies wafts through the streets.
The enormous Christmas tree in Place Kléber is particularly famous; it is elaborately decorated every year and attracts visitors from all over the world. The entire old town – including the picturesque “La Petite France” district – glows with warm lights, creating a magical atmosphere that can only be experienced in Strasbourg. Whether for strolling, indulging, or taking photos, the Strasbourg Christmas market offers the perfect blend of tradition, history and fairytale charm. A must-see for everyone who loves the Christmas season.
The Strasbourg Christmas market usually starts at the end of November and runs until the end of December. The exact dates vary slightly each year.
The market is spread throughout the entire historic old town surrounding Strasbourg Cathedral. Key areas include the Place de la Cathédrale, Place Kléber, Place Broglie and the La Petite France district.
Strasbourg is easily accessible by train, car, bus or plane:
Yes – entry is free. You can stroll freely through all market areas. Only special activities, such as attractions, may incur a fee.
The Christmas market in Colmar is a true winter wonderland and one of the most beautiful in all of Alsace. The old town, with its colorful half-timbered houses, small canals, and winding alleyways, transforms into a warmly glowing Christmas village in winter. Several markets are scattered throughout the historic center, offering lovingly decorated stalls, handcrafted goods and typical Alsatian specialties.
Especially in the evenings, when the lights bathe the facades in golden light, a magical atmosphere is created that makes Colmar unique. Whether for strolling, enjoying the atmosphere, or taking photos – the Christmas market in Colmar is an absolute highlight of the Advent season.
The Christmas market in Colmar usually starts at the end of November and runs until the end of December. The exact dates vary each year, but you can usually visit the markets until December 24th or 26th. Opening hours are often between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm, and longer on weekends.
The Christmas markets are spread throughout Colmar’s old town, perfect for strolling. The city feels like one large, interconnected Christmas village. Key squares include the Place des Dominicains, the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, the market in the Petite-Venise district and the Place Jeanne d’Arc. There’s plenty to discover here.
Colmar, like Strasbourg, is easily accessible
Yes, entry to the Colmar Christmas Market is completely free. You can freely stroll through all areas, take photos, eat and enjoy the atmosphere. Only certain activities or special offers cost extra.
The picture-perfect village of Eguisheim, one of France’s most beautiful villages, transforms into a true winter wonderland during the Christmas season. The typical, colorful half-timbered houses and the circular layout of the streets create a fairytale setting that perfectly complements the lovingly decorated Christmas stalls. The Christmas market is smaller than those in Colmar or Strasbourg, but all the more romantic, authentic and traditional for it.
Handicrafts, regional products, the warm glow of lights, and the scent of spices and mulled wine make Eguisheim a cozy Advent experience that never feels crowded. In the evenings, when the village is bathed in warm light and Christmas music fills the streets, Eguisheim unfolds its unique charm. A visit is worthwhile for anyone seeking a peaceful, atmospheric and authentic Christmas experience.
The Christmas market in Eguisheim usually takes place from the end of November until just before Christmas. The exact dates vary each year, but it is typically open daily from late morning until early evening.
The market is located in the heart of the old town of Eguisheim, spread around the central village square, the Saint-Léon IX fountain and through the circularly arranged streets.
The best way to reach Eguisheim is by car or bus. The journey from Colmar takes only about 10 minutes. Parking is available around the edge of town, as the center is mostly within walking distance.
Yes, this Christmas market is also free to enter. You can stroll freely through the lanes, enjoy the atmosphere and explore the stalls.
Kaysersberg, a picturesque medieval village in Alsace, transforms into a magical Christmas paradise during Advent. The narrow streets, half-timbered houses and historic town center provide the perfect backdrop for lovingly decorated market stalls. The Christmas market is renowned for its authentic handicrafts, regional specialties and traditional decorations.
Kaysersberg – tradition, charm, and a cozy, almost fairytale atmosphere. Kaysersberg is ideal for visitors who want to experience quiet, atmospheric and authentic Christmas markets away from the main tourist crowds. A stroll through the lanes with a mug of mulled wine or punch perfectly completes the experience.
The Christmas market in Kaysersberg usually opens at the end of November and runs until just before Christmas. The exact dates vary slightly from year to year, but it is typically open daily from late morning until early evening.
The market extends through the historic town center of Kaysersberg, in the charming half-timbered alleys and around the central market square, so that visitors can experience an atmospheric Christmas ambience.
The best way to reach Kaysersberg is by car or bus. Parking is available on the outskirts of town and the center is largely pedestrian-friendly. From Colmar (approximately 12 kilometers), the journey takes only about 15–20 minutes.
Yes, visiting the Christmas market in Kaysersberg is free. Only parking costs extra. You can stroll through the lanes to your heart’s content, explore the stalls and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
