When darkness falls early and cold settles over the half-timbered villages of Alsace, something magical happens. Christmas markets spring to life in every square, filling the air with the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. This is the Christmas of childhood dreams, made real.
Alsace has celebrated Christmas through markets for over 450 years, making Strasbourg's claim as "Capital of Christmas" historically justified. But the region's magic extends far beyond its capital. Smaller towns offer equally enchanting markets without the crowds, and combining several creates the ultimate holiday experience.
When to Visit
Christmas markets in Alsace typically run from late November through December 23rd. Some extend through New Year's, but check specific dates as they vary.
Late November to early December: Markets are operating but crowds are manageable. Early darkness (4:30 PM sunset) means more time for illuminated markets.
Mid-December: Peak season with maximum crowds but also maximum atmosphere. Book accommodation months in advance.
December 23-24: Some markets close; others continue but with a different energy as locals prepare for family celebrations.
Strasbourg: The Main Event
Strasbourg's Christmas markets are famous for reason. The city claims France's oldest market, dating to 1570, and today hosts multiple themed markets throughout the city center.
The Markets
Place Broglie: The oldest market, with traditional wooden stalls selling ornaments, decorations, and regional products.
Place de la Cathédrale: The most photographed location. The Gothic cathedral provides a dramatic backdrop for the market, and the massive Christmas tree dominates the square.
Place Kléber: Home to the "Great Christmas Tree" — over 30 meters tall — and surrounded by market stalls.
Christkindelsmärik: The original market at Place Broglie, offering authentic regional crafts.
Village du Partage: Focused on fair trade and charitable organizations.
What to Eat and Drink
- Vin chaud (mulled wine): The essential warming beverage
- Bredele: Traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies in countless varieties
- Flammekueche (tarte flambée): Thin-crust flatbread with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons
- Saucisses: Grilled sausages, especially the local varieties
- Pain d'épices: Gingerbread in every form imaginable
Practical Tips for Strasbourg
- Stay overnight — the markets shine brightest after dark
- Weekday afternoons offer better crowd management than weekends
- Tram is easier than driving — parking is difficult and expensive
- Dress warmly — you'll spend hours outdoors
Beyond Strasbourg
The smaller markets of Alsace offer charm without crowds, and combining several creates a magical journey through illuminated villages.
Colmar
Often called the most beautiful town in Alsace, Colmar's Christmas markets wind through its historic center. The Little Venice quarter, with its canals and half-timbered houses, becomes especially magical under Christmas lights.
Five separate markets operate in different squares, each with its own character. The Children's Market includes a carousel and nativity scene.
Kaysersberg
This small village was voted France's favorite village and delivers exceptional Christmas atmosphere. The market winds through narrow streets, and the ruined castle overlooking town adds medieval drama.
Size works in Kaysersberg's favor — you can see the entire market in an evening while enjoying quality over quantity.
Riquewihr
Enclosed by medieval walls, Riquewihr feels like stepping into a Christmas snow globe. The single main street fills with market stalls, and the tower gate frames perfect photographs.
Combine with Ribeauvillé, just 4 km away, which hosts its own market in a more local, less touristed setting.
Eguisheim
This circular village, with streets spiraling around a central square, creates unique market geography. The compact size means markets feel especially intimate, and the surrounding vineyards remind you of the wine that makes Alsace famous year-round.
Mulhouse
The region's second city offers an excellent Christmas market with fewer international tourists. The industrial heritage gives markets a different backdrop than the medieval villages, and the fabric museum makes an interesting addition.
Planning Your Market Trip
Sample Itinerary (3-4 Days)
Day 1: Arrive Strasbourg, afternoon and evening exploring city markets Day 2: Day trip to Colmar and Eguisheim Day 3: Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé Day 4: Morning in Strasbourg, departure
Transportation
A car provides the most flexibility for village hopping, but parking fills quickly at popular markets. Consider:
- Train to Strasbourg, then rent a car for village days
- Guided tours from Strasbourg that handle logistics
- Christmas market buses connect some villages on weekends
What to Buy
- Ornaments: Hand-blown glass balls from local workshops
- Bredele: Cookie boxes make excellent gifts
- Linens: Alsatian textiles have a distinct style
- Wine: The perfect excuse to buy regional wines
- Pottery: Traditional Alsatian patterns appear on everything
- Advent calendars: Beautiful wooden designs available everywhere
Accommodation
Book early. Very early. Major market season sees hotels fill months in advance. Consider:
- Strasbourg for convenience and evening market access
- Colmar as an alternative base with its own excellent markets
- Village stays for atmosphere — guesthouses in places like Riquewihr offer intimate experiences
The Spirit of Alsace Christmas
Alsace Christmas markets go beyond commerce. They're about community, tradition, and the warmth of gathering against winter darkness. Churches hold concerts. Children perform nativity plays. Families reunite over vin chaud.
This isn't manufactured holiday cheer — it's centuries of tradition continuing into the present. That's what makes Alsace different from Christmas markets elsewhere.
Come for the lights and gingerbread. Stay for the feeling that Christmas really can be magical.
