The Best Christmas Markets in the Alsace Region

Alsace is a beautiful and historical region in the North East of France and close to the border of Germany and Switzerland. Over centuries Alsace has alternated between French and German control. And for this reason it reflects the best of both worlds. You’ll come across villages that look like they stepped right out of a fairytale. During wintertime they are home to some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the Alsace region.

The Best Christmas Markets in the Alsace Region

Colmar

Colmar has been voted the best Christmas Market in France and honestly, it’s not hard to see why! The old center is lined with wooden timbered houses and beautiful canals. Believe me when I say they take their Christmas decorations seriously. It’s sometimes even a little over the top but it also adds to it’s charm!

Where to stay

Hôtel du Ladhof – Located right outside of Colmar and perfectly centered between all the villages. The rooms are clean and the restaurant serves traditional food.

Other hotels in Colmar

Where to eat

100% Le Bar à Jus – For some delicious vegetarian options and to detox from all the hot coco.

Le Boudoir – The perfect place for lunch! Plus their hot chocolate milk is about the size of your face.

Indulge in some of the many treats the Christmas Market has to offer such as mulled wine, bretzels, pancakes, waffles, etc.

What to see

Pretty much the entire historic center is stunning but for your convenience I will list my favourite places.

• Rue des Tanneurs
• Quai de la Poissonnerie
• Rue des Écoles
• Pont Saint Pierre
• Brasserie des Tanneurs

Where to park

Parking inside the historic center is impossible during Christmas. Once 10am police officers will patrol the city and if you’re still parked there you will get fined and towed. Not to worry, all of these parking spots that are well marked. There is a big parking lot only 5 minutes walking and for a full day you pay around €6.

Riquewihr

Riquewihr is a town on the Alsace Wine Route and it’s cobbled streets are lined with wine tasting shops. When visiting Riquewihr make sure to get in early! This little town consists of one main street and from 11am it gets super crowded.

Plus it is rumoured that this town inspired ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and as you may know I love a beautiful fairy tale trip!

Hotels in Riquewihr

Where to eat

Le Tire Bouchon – a very good bistro serving regional cuisine

Au Petit Délice – Indulge in delicious bretzels and hot apple cider with cinnamon!

What to see

Simply walking through the colourful streets of Riquewihr makes you feel like you’re in a real life fairytale. But if you have the chance make sure to check out the beautiful Christmas store Féerie de Noël.

Where to park

There is a big parking lot on both sides of the city. But make sure to arrive early cause they fill up fast!

Eguisheim

The cute village of Eguisheim is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in entire Europe! It’s no wonder that it’s a favourite among many many tourists. If you want to take beautiful photos without 50 other people in it you’ll have to make sure to arrive at sunrise!

Hotels in Eguisheim

Where to eat

L’authentique pain d’épices – Make sure to try their hot apple cider and ginger bread!

Creperie La Galinette – Make sure to try the local dishes such as tarte flambée and escargots!

What to see

Eguisheim is the perfect little town to wander around and get lost in the little streets. Make sure to snap a lot of photos on the way and make sure to see the main square!

Where to park

There is a big parking lot 5 minutes walking from the center.

If you have a little more time on your hands it’s definitely also worth it to spend a couple of days in Strasbourg!

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