You never forget your first visit to the Alsace Christmas markets. The smells of gingerbread, vin chaud, and Munster cheese fill the air as you become mesmerized by all the twinkling lights. It is an experience that entices all the senses, and even after returning home, you’ll want to hop right back on a plane for more.
Of course, I write all of this while enjoying a few bites of pâte à tartiner I purchased at the Christmas market in Obernai, and sipping coffee from my Colmar Christmas market mug. Sigh. It truly was a trip to remember with my parents including visits to both charming small towns and the Capital of Christmas itself: Strasbourg.
But, now that I am back at home, I’m here to tell you all about the best Alsatian Christmas markets, give helpful tips for your visit, and give you a 5-day itinerary so that you can have the MOST AMAZING time celebrating Christmas in the Alsace!
What is the Alsace?
First things first, we have to talk about what in fact is the Alsace region. The Alsace a cultural and historical region located in what is now the Grand Est region of France and borders Germany along the Rhine River as well as a bit of Switzerland. It has a huge German feel and influence due to its passing hands between Germany and France many times over the centuries.
Strasbourg is the capital, and Strasbourg also happens to be where the European Union Parliament is located.
This region has several small towns and is known for its half-timbered and colorful architecture as well as white wine, beer, and delicious food.
Also, being on the border with Germany and having a large German influence, it makes sense that the Christmas markets in the Alsace have a German Christmas market feel.
In fact, Strasbourg is known for having one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, with evidence of it dating back to the 1500s.
So that is why Strasbourg is known as the Capital of Christmas or “Capitale de Noël” and makes this whole region a must-visit during the holiday season.
Best Alsace Christmas Markets
I will definitely say that the Alsace has some of the best Christmas markets in France, from its bigger towns and cities to its smaller villages.
So here are some of the best Christmas markets in the Alsace you’ll want to add to your list!
1. Strasbourg Christmas Market
Dates: November 25-December 24, 2026. (Estimated)
Hours: Every day from 11:30 am-9 pm. On November 25, it is open from 2 pm, and on December 24, it closes at 6 pm. (Estimated)
Known as the Capital of Christmas, if you’re going to the Christmas markets in the Alsace, you have to come to Strasbourg. It is also super easy to get to thanks to the train station and nearby airport.
This city has 8 markets to check out in the historic part of the city! Some highlights to check out include the At the Foot of the Grand Sapin Market at Place Kléber for its gigantic tree that lights up in the evenings, Around the Cathedral Market with the Strasbourg Cathedral towering over the stunning stands, the Chìstkìndelsmärik at Place Broglie with tons of lights and a projection on City Hall, and the Unyielding Small Producers of the Alsace Market + the Advent Village over by the canals in the Petite France area.
Check out my full Strasbourg Christmas Market guide here for more details!
I loved Hotel Hannong in Strasbourg and it was in a great location near lots of nice bars, restaurants, and the markets themselves.
2. Colmar Christmas Market
Dates: November 23-December 29, 2026. The Gourmet Market, Ferris Wheel, and Christmas Fair at Place Rapp are open from November 23, 2026 until January 3, 2027.
Hours: Monday-Thurday from 11 am-7 pm. Friday-Sunday from 10 am-8 pm. December 24 open from 11 am-5 pm, December 25 from 10 am-8 pm, and December 26 from 10 am-8 pm. The Gourmet Market, Ferris Wheel, and Christmas Fair at Place Rapp are open daily from 11 am-10 pm, with the exception on 12/31 when it closes at 5 pm.
Colmar is the Christmas town of everyone’s dreams. Full of half-timbered colorful buildings, it seriously looks like a confection. And once you stroll past the canals and admire the swans swimming in the sunshine, you’ll really want to just up and move here.
So while this is a great spot to visit year-round, the Christmas markets are also iconic here. With 6 main Christmas markets, you could certainly visit them all in a day, but we used Colmar as a base to explore nearby markets over the weekend.
Here is a rundown of must-visit markets. The Petite Venise market at Place des Six Montagnes Noires is super lovely especially as it is next to the river. It is also a fantastic spot to be in the evening on weekends for the moving light projections on the buildings along the canal.
Place de l’Anncienne Douane has tons of great crafts and food, and Koifhus is actually inside and showcases tons of local artisans and their crafts.
The Marché Gourmand at Rue de la Montagne Verte is a must-visit for lunch or dinnertime, as it has 9 booths showcasing local restaurants with delicious cuisine. It only sells food and drinks here so it is the perfect place to try local delicacies.
Place Jeanne d’Arc is another cute market selling some food and crafts, and then the Place des Dominicains by the Eglise des Dominicains is super scenic with lovely decorations! It is also the biggest market.
Colmar is also another easy market to get to thanks to its access via train from Strasbourg. It is only about a 30-minute train ride from there.
For a lovely stay near the markets, opt for Hotel Turenne.
3. Mulhouse Christmas Market
Dates: November 20-December 27, 2026.
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-8 pm. Friday-Sunday from 10 am-9 pm. December 24 from 11 am-6 pm. December 26 from 12-9 pm. December 27 from 10 am-6 pm. Closed on Christmas Day.
Located the furthest south of all the other towns and cities on this list, it is actually accessible easily from Basel, Switzerland via an 22-minute train ride.
What makes this Alsatian city unique for Christmas markets is its fabric decor thanks to its long textile history. Enjoy the fabric-themed market and purchase some keepsakes of your own to take home including pillows, ornaments, and tablecloths.
The market in Mulhouse is centered around Place de la Reunion with it stretching around St. Etienne Temple as well. You can also spot the large Christmas tree at Place de la Victoire, and there is a sound and light show at Square de la Bourse (to be confirmed).
For a charming bed and breakfast within walking distance of the markets, check out Maison Mondrian.
4. Eguisheim Christmas Market
Dates: November 27-December 23, 2026. December 27-30, 2026.
Hours: Open Monday-Thursday from 12-7 pm and Friday-Sunday from 10 am-7 pm. Starting on December 14, it is open 10 am-7 pm daily (except on December 24-26) until the markets close for the year.
This smaller town is just outside of Colmar and is easily reachable by car or bus. During the holiday season, there is the Navettes de Noel, or the Christmas Shuttle, that leaves Colmar and goes here for the market daily. Just note the shuttle stops operating before the end of the market dates here.
It costs €8 Monday-Thursday and €17 Friday-Sunday. And be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Known as being a part of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” you’ll be instantly charmed by Eguisheim. And during the Christmas markets, it is even more charming thanks to the twinkling lights, decorated buildings, and the Advent festival itself in the city center.
It is a smaller market, with only 30 selected craftspeople selling their wares, so you’ll be sure to find amazing handcrafted items to bring home along with tasty treats!
This is an easy day trip from Colmar, but if you wish to spend the night, check out Hameau d’Eguisheim.
5. Obernai Christmas Market
Dates: November 27-December 31, 2026.
Hours: Sunday-Thursday from 10 am-8 pm. Friday-Saturday from 10 am-9 pm. December 24 and 31 from 10 am-4 pm. Closed on Christmas Day.
This Christmas market is easily reachable via train from Strasbourg. Within a half hour, you’re at the Obernai train station, and from there, walk toward the amazing markets in this town.
This ended up being my absolute favorite village during the whole Alsace Christmas market trip we took! The markets weren’t packed with crowds (although, I recommend going mid-week as we did!), and this village is known for its delightful food during the holiday season.
Enjoy tasty treats from pâte à tartiner to pain d’épices and more. I also had the best vegetable soup of my life at a soup stand at the Beffroi market!
I recommend starting at the main market at Place du Marché in the city center with its dreamy carousel and charming stands selling mulled wine and tasty treats. Then walk over to the Beffroi Market to sample some local wine, vin chaud blanc, and some great food like veggie soup (if it’s still there!).
The Place de l’Etoile is another market that is kid-friendly with some rides for kids and a place to drop off their letters to Santa!
While you’re over there, head to the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Obernai for several amazing nativity sets. It is such a lovely church and the nativity sets are so cute!
Then, end your time here at the Place Neher market for more mulled wine and the most incredible Emmental-cheese-covered galettes de pommes de terre.
If you’ve got time, there is a newer market at Cour Athic that is smaller!
While this is a super easy day trip from Strasbourg, if you prefer to stay the night in Obernai, check out the Hotel de la Cloche.
6. Kaysersberg Christmas Market
Dates: November 27-29, December 4-6, December 11-13, and December 18-20, 2026.
Hours: 10 am-8 pm.
Kaysersberg has a ridiculously charming Alsace France Christmas market. I mean the town itself is nestled below a hill of vineyards and has delightful cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Oh, and I cannot forget the beautiful castle ruins overlooking the village.
But during the Christmas market season in France, it has even more charm with its festive 30 chalets at its Authentic Christmas Market. Try some bredele, find handcrafted toys and decor, and sip mulled wine from a lovely little mug.
Then, be sure to stop by the Christmas Farmers Market where you can sample fresh pain d’epices, cheeses, honey, jams, and more.
And if you want to see a fun Christmas exhibition, check out the Arsenal Room next to the tourism office.
The easiest way to get to Kaysersberg is to take the Navettes de Noel (Christmas shuttle from Colmar- I explain more in my tips section below under getting around!). Although, you can drive if you wish and find parking nearby.
But get here early! We caught the first shuttle to Kaysersberg. While at the beginning the markets were empty and it was a ton of fun, within an hour or two the village got crowded. So my advice is to enjoy the markets, walk around the super lovely town, and then head back to the bus to check out more markets.
If you want to stay, a hotel to check out is Chambard.
7. Riquewihr Christmas Market
Dates: November 27-December 20, 2026.
Hours: Monday-Friday from 10 am-6:30 pm. Saturday and Sunday from 10 am-7 pm. 10 am-8 pm on November 27.
This beautiful town is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, making it one of the best Christmas markets in the Alsace in France! With gorgeous views of vineyards and lovely ancient ramparts, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Riquewihr during the Christmas markets in the Alsace season.
Unlike other smaller Alsace France Christmas markets, the one in Riquewihr is open every day. So you can either drive here, take a bus, or opt to come and visit when the Christmas shuttles operate from Colmar on Friday-Sunday.
The Riquewihr Christmas market has about 100 stalls selling lots of local beer, mulled wine, and food to people. And on weekends, it even extends along Rue du General de Gaulle. I absolutely loved sampling Alsactian tartiflette with sausages and Munster cheese!
Oh, and for wine lovers, there are so many great stands selling local wines from local vintners! Try Rieslings, Pinot Blancs, and some Pinot Noir in the middle of the market.
Again, this makes for an easy day trip via the Colmar Christmas shuttle, but you can stay at a lovely hotel like the Hotel Restaurant Saint-Nicolas.
8. Ribeauvillé Christmas Market
Dates: December 5, 6, 12, and 13, 2026.
Hours: Saturday from 10 am-7 pm. Sunday from 10 am-6 pm.
Is this an incredible and magical Christmas market? Yes. Does it make Alsace in winter a dreamy Medieval wonderland? Absolutely. Is it super freaking crowded the later in the day you go? 100%.
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED this market! It is known as the Marché de Noël Medieval de Ribeauvillé, aka the Medieval Christmas Market in Ribeauvillé. And the whole town gets into it!
Aside from the buildings being adorably decorated and the castle towering over the village that looks epic at night all lit up, you’ll find people dressed up, people on stilts, a live band, farm animals, live demonstrations for things like making apple cider the old fashioned way, and more!
The whole vibe is incredible! I mean you’ll find anything from a whole pig roasting over a fire to sword fights breaking out. If a Renaissance fair turned into a Christmas market, this would be it!
And the market stretches the length of the Grand Rue with stands dotting the street as well as plazas like Place Gouraud, Cour de la Maison Jeanne d’Arc, Place de la 1ere Armee, Cour de la Mediatheque, Place de l’Hotel de Ville, Cour Sipp, Place de la Sinne, Place du Bouc, and Place de la Republique.
Basically, there is a lot to see and do! Don’t forget to enjoy the animations on buildings that happen after the sun goes down!
But… while I absolutely loved it, because it is such a unique market in a scenic town and only happens on two weekends a year, it is insanely busy. In some areas, I was genuinely afraid that if something happened, people would definitely get hurt from crowd crush.
I recommend potentially getting here earlier in the day or, if you do go on a Saturday evening, trying to get off of the Grand Rue and get on the smaller side streets to get to some of the markets.
The easiest way to get here is to take the Navettes de Noel bus from Colmar. But if you choose to drive, it is a good idea to stay the night before you visit the markets so you can get there when they open for the least amount of people.
A good hotel in Ribeauvillé is the Hotel du Mouton.
The Best Christmas Market For You!
There are several Christmas markets in the Alsace to choose from, so which should you choose? Here are ones to pick based on your preferences!
- Most Quintessential Alsace Christmas Village: Kaysersberg
- Best Lights & Decor: Strasbourg
- Most Christmasy Atmosphere: Colmar
- Most Unique: Ribeauvillé
- Best For Families and Kids: Colmar
- Best Market for Food: Ribeauvillé
- Most Relaxing: Obernai
- Best For Those Who Want to Stay in a City But Go to a Less Busy Market: Mulhouse
- Best For Tasting Wine on the Alsace Wine Route: Riquewihr
- Best to Visit Mid-Week: Eguisheim
My Favorite Alsace Christmas Market
I’ll be honest that I absolutely loved each and every one of the markets I visited during my time exploring the Alsace. I think the most unique with great food and drinks has to be the Ribeauvillé Christmas Market.
However, because of the lack of crowd control, I’m instead going to say that the best Christmas market in the Alsace is Obernai!
I love that you can visit during the week and not deal with a lot of people, and the markets were small with so many great booths selling local products, handcrafted goods, and really delicious food.
Plus, it is a small town with adorably charming half-timbered houses all decorated for the season. I could’ve stayed there for several days!
I also loved the Strasbourg and Colmar Christmas markets! They had so much cute stuff to purchase and tons of great booths selling food and drinks. Not to mention that these cities go all out with a lot of great decor and lit-up streets.
The Ultimate Alsace Christmas Market Itinerary in 5 Days
Now that you know about the best Alsace Christmas markets, let me share a perfect 5-day itinerary to see most of the markets without being rushed.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore Strasbourg
I would use this day to arrive from Paris or the Strasbourg airport and just wander around the old city of Strasbourg. Explore the Petite France area, visit the amazing Christmas markets all over the city, and enjoy.
You can definitely see most of the markets in the old city within a day or so, so this is the perfect day to do just that.
Stay in Strasbourg at Hotel Hannong.
Day 2: Alsace Wine Route Day Trip
I recommend exploring the Alsace Wine Route this day, because…I mean you’re in the area, right? This was a fabulous day trip we took from Strasbourg that included visits to 3 very different and charming wineries!
We also got to stop in Ribeauvillé for lunchtime during the week when it wasn’t crowded, which was lovely.
Some great wines to try include Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir.
Enjoy a full-day wine tour of the Alsace region and end the evening in Strasbourg, where you can explore a market or two before bed.
Day 3: Day Trip to Obernai
This day is a great opportunity to take the train to Obernai and check out their delightful Christmas markets. Enjoy a leisurely morning wandering around Petite France in Strasbourg and grabbing breakfast before heading to Obernai for the late morning and afternoon.
Partake in all the delicious cuisine at the markets, sip local wine, and admire the charming town for the day before heading back in the evening to Strasbourg.
Day 4: Explore Colmar
This day is a great time to take the short train ride to Colmar and stay at Hotel Turenne. Use this day to explore all the markets in Colmar, sampling all the food and drinks as well as purchasing some handcrafted goods.
You can see all the Colmar Christmas markets within a day pretty easily, so that makes for a fantastic time. And in the evening, head to Caveau Saint Pierre for amazing local food.
Day 5: Explore the Markets of Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé
I recommend planning this trip so that you have your 5th day on the weekend to be able to take the Christmas shuttle, or Navettes de Noel, from Colmar to these towns. Alternatively, you can also drive yourself if you rent a car. Regardless, since many of these markets you’re visiting this day are open only on weekends, you’ll want to plan this day on a weekend.
During our trip, we did the shuttle that went to Kayserberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé in that order, but there is another shuttle that goes the opposite direction. That may be a good idea to prevent getting stuck in the crowds at night in Ribeauvillé.
But take the full day to enjoy all these towns and markets, and make tons of great memories!
After that, you’ll head back to Colmar and end your perfect Alsace Christmas Market trip!
PS- Check out my video about this itinerary!
Have More Time in the Alsace at Christmas?
Then definitely take some time to explore other towns above like Mulhouse and Eguisheim.
Where to Stay in the Alsace
This largely depends on which markets you choose to visit. However, for the most part, staying in Strasbourg or Colmar makes the most sense. They’re well connected and these are larger markets to explore on their own, making a night or two in these places useful.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg:
- Budget: Hotel Beaucour
- Mid-Range: Hannong Hotel & Wine Bar (where I stayed last time and loved it!)
- Luxury: Maison Rouges Strasbourg Hotel & Spa
Where to Stay in Colmar:
- Budget: Hotel Turenne (where I stayed last time and enjoyed it!)
- Mid-Range: Hotel Colombier Suites
- Luxury: La Maison des Têtes
What to Eat at the Alsace Christmas Markets
There are so many great treats to enjoy at the Alsace Christmas markets! Here are some things you’ve got to eat!
- Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche). This is a thin-crust dough topped with cheese or creme fraiche, onions, and lardons (bacon). Yes, it is as amazing as that sounds.
- Foie Gras. This is a French delicacy and is available at every Alsace Christmas market!
- Munster. One of the best French cheeses, this isn’t like the muenster cheese you may know. This is a soft rind cheese that is funky and delicious. They usually put it on spatzle or potatoes at the markets. Yum.
- Pain d’épices. At every Alsatian Christmas market, you’re bound to find booths selling these loaves of dark bread. Some have various things added, but these spiced breads (aka gingerbread) loaves are amazing. You can also find these in cookie form too!
- Bredele. Spiced cookies are all over the Alsace and are well worth a try.
- Bretzels (Pretzels). Who doesn’t love a nice, salty soft pretzel? You’ll find these plain, salt-covered, cheese-covered, chocolate covered, etc.
- Mannele. These are yummy brioche buns that are shaped into people.
- Choucroute. This is sauerkraut, often served with sausages.
What to Drink at the Best Alsace Christmas Markets
Something that I really enjoyed was the wide variety of beverages at the Alsace Christmas markets! Here are some of the ones you’ll want to try during your visit!
- Vin Chaud (Mulled Wine or Gluwhein). I mean, this is an obvious choice! With all the yummy spices of the season like cinnamon, anise, cloves, etc. you’ll feel warmed up in no time. You can find it in both red and white in many places. And sometimes you can add a shot of amaretto, rum, whiskey, or Eau de Vie (their local liquor).
- Local Alsatian Wine. There are booths at many of these markets from local vintners. Here, you can try so many types of their local wines from Cremant to Riesling and more. You can also purchase a bottle or two to take home!
- Local Alsatian Beer. Likewise, with wine, there are local breweries selling their beers too! You can sample, buy a beer to enjoy at the market, or even purchase some to take home!
- Eau de Vie. This is a local liquor and digestif that is made from fruit.
- Chocolat Chaud. Hot chocolate is the lovely, creamy, hot beverage to kick off your day of exploring the Alsace Christmas markets!
- Other Mulled Beverages. While Vin chaud is very popular at markets, there are tons of other hot spiced drinks you can enjoy including apple cider, orange juice, etc.
Tips For Visiting the Alsace at Christmastime
Here are some tips for visiting the Alsace during the holiday season!
1. Getting Around the Alsace at Christmas.
There are a few options. Places like Strasbourg, Colmar, Mulhouse, and Obernai are connected via train and can be visited that way!
However, some smaller towns and villages don’t have train stations. But, you can take a bus from Colmar to Kaysersberg, Eguisheim, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr separately. You can check Google Maps for the right bus to catch!
And on Friday-Sunday during the holiday season, there is the Navette de Noël bus that can take you from Colmar to Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé. There is also a Navette de Noël that operates daily to Eguisheim during the holiday season. Book tickets in advance!
It costs €17 per person for the day pass on Friday-Sunday, and €8 for Monday-Thursday (only for Eguisheim).
The buses run from morning until evening on those days, and they arrive every 30 minutes on Saturday and Sunday and every hour on Friday.
Lastly, you can rent a car. Just be sure to look up parking, especially for busier market days!
2. Other Things to Do in the Alsace at Christmas.
Aside from frolicking around the Christmas markets, there are other things to do in the Alsace including visiting Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, exploring the Alsace Wine Route, and exploring the many museums in Colmar, Strasbourg, and Mulhouse!
3. When to Visit the Markets.
If it is a market that is open every day, I recommend going early in the season, mid-week, and during the day to avoid the most crowds. Of course, even mid-week in the evening will be less crowded than a Saturday night. However, some markets, like Ribeauvillé, are only open on weekends. If that is the case, going early (as soon as it opens!) is best.
4. Bring Cash.
While many stands accept card these days, cash is always helpful to have on hand, especially coins!
5. Mug Deposits!
Don’t forget about the deposit for your mug if you get a drink! If you get a mug, typically they take a deposit too. So if you return it, you’ll get that deposit back!
6. Weather.
Strasbourg’s temperature averages around 43ºF / 6ºC during the day and 33ºF / 1ºC at night. There may also be rain, and potentially, snow. We didn’t have snow when we were there, but it did rain, and it was chillier at times. So it’s best to be prepared!
7. What to Wear.
Because it is chilly, a hat/earmuffs, scarf, and gloves are necessary, especially as the Christmas markets are largely outside. A thick coat will be necessary as well. I also love having waterproof boots. Wool underlayers are also a good idea on particularly chilly days!
8. Get an eSIM.
Having an eSIM is helpful while traveling in France to help you stay connected! I love Airalo!
9. Book Early!
I’m going back to the Alsace this year and booked my hotels in July. Even that felt late, and prices were already getting expensive. It is a more expensive time to visit overall, and hotels book out. So be sure to book and plan your trip early!
Frequently Asked Questions
To wrap up this Alsace Christmas market guide, here are some answers to any remaining questions you may have!
1. How many days do you need at the Alsace Christmas markets?
More time is always better, but I think even if you have 2 days to spend at 1-2 markets it is well worth it! I think 5 days is the perfect amount of time to go on a whole trip and see many of the best Alsace Christmas markets!
2. Which Alsace Christmas market is the best?
Personally, I loved how laid back Obernai’s Christmas Market was. The food was excellent, and it was just a chill and charming town. However, I have a section above indicating what might be the best for you!
3. Can you visit the Alsace Christmas markets without a car?
Yes you can! On my recent visit, I did this without a car. We used the train and the Navette de Noël shuttle from Colmar to see some smaller markets.
4. Are the Alsace Christmas markets open after Christmas?
Yes, there are some! Colmar’s market is open through December 29 this year, with their Christmas Fair on Place Rapp, Ferris Wheel, and Gourmet Market extending until January 3, 2027. Mulhouse is also open until December 27.
Eguisheim shuts down before Christmas and reopens from December 27-30, and Obernai is open until December 31.
5. Which markets are open on Christmas Day?
Sadly, the only market open on Christmas Day is Colmar. So if you’re here during Christmas, Colmar is a great option!
The Alsace Christmas markets are seriously incredible to explore. It gives you the chance to feel like a child again with the lights, smells, and sounds of the season. After a visit, you’ll likely be addicted and want to visit again every year!
Which French Christmas markets would you most like to visit?
Want to see how much a trip like this costs? Check it out here!
Want more France travel tips for the holiday season? Check out these posts!
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Kat is the France travel expert behind France Voyager. After studying abroad in Grenoble, she fell head over heels for the country. She has since visited many times since 2012 (including visits to 11 of the 13 regions in Metropolitan France) and is sharing all the tips for visiting France in this blog, which she has run for 5 years. Kat shares places she has traveled to and provides tips based on her own personal experiences of traveling and living in France. Aside from France Voyager, Kat also has a couple’s travel blog called World Wide Honeymoon and a podcast that she co-hosts with her husband, Chris, called the World Wide Honeymoon Travel Podcast.