Alsace Christmas Markets

Alsace is home to some of Europe’s first Christmas markets, Strasbourg’s dates back to 1570. The region does an extraordinary job preserving the historical charm, traditions, and craftsmanship that make Christmas markets feel truly magical.

The villages look like real-life storybooks.

Alsace has some of the most picturesque towns on the continent: half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, canal views, colorful facades, glowing garlands, and enough twinkle lights to make even adults feel like kids again.
Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg look straight out of a fairytale during December.

The markets are beautifully curated—not overwhelming.

Unlike the massive, crowded markets in big cities, Alsace’s markets feel intimate and charming. Each town has several small markets with handcrafted items, local foods, and warm, inviting atmospheres. It’s festive, but never chaotic.

Everything is close together—easy, comfortable travel.

The villages are small, walkable, and connected by short train or shuttle rides. Strasbourg → Colmar is just 30 minutes, and many villages are within 10–20 minutes of each other. Perfect for a relaxed itinerary.

The food and wine are incredible.

Alsace is a culinary gem:

• mulled wine (“vin chaud”) made with local spices

• fresh pretzels, pastries, and gingerbread

• raclette, tarte flambée, sausages, and holiday specialties

• world-famous Alsatian white wines

This region has some of the best festive comfort food in Europe.

The atmosphere is unmatched.

No region blends French elegance, German Christmas tradition, and storybook charm quite like Alsace. The lights, decor, music, and old-world architecture make even simple walks feel magical.

It’s effortless to combine with other destinations.

From Alsace, you can easily add on:

• Germany’s Black Forest

• Basel or Zurich in Switzerland

• Paris