Although it may feel like Christmas is still a long way off, it is actually just around the corner, as the saying goes. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about the most enjoyable plans to make the most of the season, allowing you to organize everything just the way you like and secure you accommodation and transport without any last-minute worries.

One of the most beautiful experiences to enjoy with family and children is exploring the Christmas markets in Alsace, a small region in France on the German border. Known for its enchanting timber-framed villages, , green valleys, vineyards, medieval castles, and Christmas markets. An unforgettable trip where, depending on when you visit, you can also take advantages of its many ski resorts.

Few places in Europe are as magical for experiencing the full spirit of Christmas as Alsace, where Alsatian holiday traditions blend seamlessly with German ones. While all its towns and cities embrace the season wholeheartedly, a few stand out for one reason or another. At the top of the list is the Strasbourg Christmas Market, the most famous and largest in the region, followed by the towns of Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Obernai, Mulhouse, and Eguisheim, and, of course, Colmar, which looks like it has been taken straight from the pages of a Christmas storybook.

Strasbourg Christmas Market

As the capital of Alsace, Strasbourg hosts the oldest Christmas market in France. The iconic Christkindelsmarik has been bringing magic to the area for over 400 years. With more than 300 wooden chalets set up across different squares in the city, it’s a wonderland of lights and decorations that captivate everyone who walks through.

Colmar Christmas Market

The charming town of Colmar attracts visitors eager to explore one of the most famous and visited markets in Europe. In its old town, there are up to six different markets, each dedicated to a unique theme, such us Christmas decorations in Place des Dominicains, local products in Place Jeanne d’Arc, a children’s market in Petite Venise, crafts at Koïfhus, and gastronomy at Place de la Cathédrale. A particular highlight is the Petite Venise market, where visitors can enjoy boat rides through the stalls, all beautifully illuminated with twinkling lights.

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market

Unique in its kind, this market offers an immersive journey into the town’s medieval past. Dancers, minstrels, witches, knights, acrobats, jugglers, and even fire-breathers transport visitors to an enchanting, centuries-old Christmas. Traditional crafts and forgotten games delight younger generations, while medieval dishes are served in the squares (including wild boar roasted on a spit), and street performers fill the air with a joyful, festive atmosphere.

Eguisheim Christmas Market

Nestled near Colmar and surrounded by vineyards lies Eguisheim, one of most beautiful villages in France. As you stroll within its medieval walls, you’ll feel as if time has stood still, partly thanks to its charming Christmas market. Although smaller compared to others, Eguisheim is incredibly picturesque and well worth a visit. A grand arch greets visitors into its cozy ambiance, where 30 artisans and designers display their crafts, and where you can also enjoy traditional Alsatian dishes.

Obernai Christmas Market

If you’re a fan of gastronomy and craftsmanship, be sure to visit this market, where nearly 40 wooden chalets are set at the foot of the Beffroi, the city’s most iconic monument. Savor gingerbread, foie gras, bredele, Christmas beer, cheeses, and cured meats. The air is filled with the scents of spices and the warming aroma of mulled wine. Be sure to try the hot wine from Obernai, made with white wine and gently simmered in a large cauldron.

Riquewihr Christmas Market

Riquewihr is one of the most enchanting villages in Alsace, so much so that it inspired the settings for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. From the moment you arrive, its magic will sweep you away, thanks to the colourful façades, window garlands, and its Christmas market, which takes place both inside and outside the city walls. Explore local crafts, savour the delights of Alsatian cuisine, and visit the many wineries, all nicely decorated for the season and open during Christmas.

Mulhouse Christmas Market

The textile capital of Alsace dresses up at Christmas with an exceptional fabric that covers the facades of buildings in a display of light and color. Each year, a new fabric is chosen, inspired by the city’s rich textile heritage. The main square is filled with vibrant colors and patterns, looking splendid thanks to the Mullhouse Christmas market. Wooden chalets wind around Place de la Réunion and at the foot of Sain-Etienne Church, where a large Ferris Wheel completes the scene. The Christmas markets in Alsace are open for about a month, from late November until Christmas Eve, though some remain open even after Christmas. Each market has its own closing dates and special opening days, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before you visit. Christmas is all about discovering its traditions, celebrations, and, of course, its unique and enchanting markets that perfectly capture Europe’s holiday spirit. It’s time to create unforgettable Christmas memories as you travel the world.

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