Strasbourg – The Capital of Christmas
Often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, dating back to 1570. Spread across several squares in the city, the Christkindelsmärik is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Alsace during the holiday season.
- Location: The main market is centered around Place Kléber, but you’ll find festive stalls in Place Broglie, Place de la Cathédrale, and other nearby locations.
- What to Expect: A sea of wooden chalets selling everything from handmade ornaments to local delicacies like pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread) and Bredeles (Alsatian Christmas cookies). Don’t miss the massive Christmas tree at Place Kléber, adorned with lights and ornaments.
- Special Activities: Strasbourg offers much more than shopping. Enjoy outdoor ice skating, listen to carolers, and take in the breathtaking Strasbourg Cathedral, illuminated with holiday lights.
Insider Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon to see the market transition from day to night as the lights turn on—it’s a magical sight!

Colmar – A Fairytale Christmas
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through a Christmas village straight out of a storybook, Colmar’s Christmas market is for you. The town’s picturesque canals and half-timbered houses make for a stunning backdrop to one of Alsace’s most beautiful holiday markets.
- Location: Colmar has multiple markets, with the largest being at Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Place des Dominicains, and Place Jeanne d’Arc.
- What to Expect: Each of the five markets has its own charm. From traditional wooden toys and nativity scenes to local wines and regional food, there’s something for everyone. The Place Jeanne d’Arc market is the go-to for lovers of Alsatian food, offering an array of cheeses, sausages, and pastries.
- Special Activities: Take a guided boat tour along Colmar’s canals, decorated with twinkling lights. Children will love the animated nativity scenes at the Koïfhus (the old customs house).
Insider Tip: Visit Colmar during the week if possible, as weekends can get quite crowded. You’ll be able to enjoy the markets at a leisurely pace and take in the magical ambiance.

Riquewihr – A Hidden Gem
Nestled among Alsace’s rolling vineyards, the medieval village of Riquewihr is a hidden gem during the holiday season. This small town is known for its well-preserved architecture and stunning Christmas decorations that transform it into a festive wonderland.
- Location: The market is spread throughout the town’s cobblestone streets, with the largest gathering around Rue du Général de Gaulle.
- What to Expect: Riquewihr’s Christmas market may be smaller than Strasbourg or Colmar, but it’s filled with charm. Explore stalls offering local crafts, Alsatian delicacies, and, of course, plenty of mulled wine. The narrow streets are lined with beautifully decorated half-timbered houses, making every corner a photo-worthy moment.
- Special Activities: Wine lovers will enjoy visiting the town’s many wine cellars, where you can sample and purchase local Rieslings and Gewürztraminers to take home as holiday gifts.
Insider Tip: Combine your visit to Riquewihr with a stop at nearby villages such as Kaysersberg and Eguisheim, both of which host charming Christmas markets of their own.

Kaysersberg – A Traditional Alsatian Experience
Another must-see is the Christmas market in Kaysersberg, a village that perfectly captures the essence of Alsatian tradition. Surrounded by vineyards and overlooked by a medieval castle, Kaysersberg’s market transports visitors back in time with its old-world charm.
- Location: The market is set up in Place de la Mairie and along the main streets of the village.
- What to Expect: This market focuses on handmade crafts and authentic Alsatian products. From wooden toys and pottery to textiles and candles, it’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts. Of course, you’ll also find plenty of local treats like kougelhopf (Alsatian brioche) and artisanal cheeses.
- Special Activities: Visit the Kaysersberg Castle for a panoramic view of the village and surrounding vineyards, especially beautiful when covered in snow.
Insider Tip: Kaysersberg’s market is only open on weekends, so plan accordingly!

Mulhouse – A Textile-Inspired Christmas
While Mulhouse may be known for its industrial history, it transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. The city’s Christmas fabric tradition is unique in Alsace, with each market stall adorned with special Christmas fabrics inspired by Mulhouse’s rich textile history.
- Location: The market is centered around Place de la Réunion.
- What to Expect: Mulhouse’s Christmas market is famous for its textile-themed decorations, which are inspired by the city’s heritage. In addition to beautiful fabrics, visitors will find handcrafted goods, local food products, and festive performances.
- Special Activities: Visit the Museum of Printed Textiles to learn more about the town’s textile tradition and admire beautiful fabric designs.
Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the Christmas illuminations at Temple Saint-Étienne, which add a magical glow to the market square.
