Updated on 23 April 2026
How to combine Christmas markets and the Alsace Wine Route?
In brief
Alsace holds the most celebrated Christmas markets in France, from late November to late December. The most iconic are Strasbourg (Capital of Christmas), Colmar, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, Ribeauville (medieval markets on the first two weekends of December) and Eguisheim. A private chauffeur avoids saturated parking and lets you enjoy mulled wine and Cremant without driving constraints.
From late November to late December, Alsace becomes one of Europe's most visited Christmas destinations. Markets combine Alsatian tradition (pretzels, gingerbread, mulled wine, gluhwein), local craftsmanship and luminous decoration. Most Wine Route villages host their own market with distinctive features.
2026 dates
Alsatian markets typically open on the last Friday of November and close on 30 December (some extend to 1 January). Strasbourg's official opening: Friday 27 November 2026. Ribeauville's medieval markets run on the first and second weekends of December only (5-6 and 12-13 December 2026). Verify precise dates 2 weeks beforehand.
Strasbourg: the Capital of Christmas
Strasbourg has claimed the title of Capital of Christmas since 1570, the date of the first recorded market. Over 300 chalets spread across 12 sites including Place Broglie (the historic Christkindelsmarik), Place Kleber (Grand Sapin), Cathedral Square and Petite France. Heavy crowds, especially Saturdays and Sundays. Using P+R tram parking and alighting at Homme de Fer is the simplest option without a private chauffeur.
Colmar: five markets in one
Colmar hosts five distinct markets across the historic centre. Place des Dominicains (spiritual), Place Jeanne d'Arc (gourmet), Koifhus (craftsmanship), Petite Venise (for children), Place de l'Ancienne Douane (international). Particularly successful decoration, illuminated Petite Venise canal, less dense than Strasbourg. High weekend traffic.
Ribeauville medieval markets
Ribeauville runs its market in medieval style on the first two weekends of December. Costumes, ancient music, animations (jugglers, fire breathers, falconers) and historical stalls make it unique. Medieval mulled wine, tavern food, authentic craftsmanship. Very busy; prefer Friday or Sunday morning.
Riquewihr and Kaysersberg: village atmosphere
These two villages offer the most photogenic markets, postcard-village style. Riquewihr illuminates its half-timbered houses, spreads its market along rue du General de Gaulle with weekend animations. Kaysersberg packs its market around the fortified bridge and the church, a particularly romantic setting. Plan 2 h in each.
Eguisheim: quiet and warm
Eguisheim's market remains more intimate and less crowded than Riquewihr. The concentric lanes light up, local exhibitors favour artisanal products. Open on end-of-week and weekends only. Ideal for a quiet visit.
Recommended 2-day circuit
A classic sequence to combine 5 iconic markets in 2 days:
- Day 1 morning: Strasbourg, visit Place Broglie and Cathedral markets (3 h).
- Day 1 afternoon: transfer to Colmar (45 min), visit Petite Venise and 5 markets (3 h).
- Day 1 evening: overnight in Colmar, traditional dinner.
- Day 2 morning: Eguisheim (2 h) then Kaysersberg (2 h), lunch on-site.
- Day 2 afternoon: Riquewihr (2 h) then Ribeauville (2 h) if medieval weekend.
- Day 2 evening: return to Strasbourg or extend in Colmar.
Frequently asked questions
Can I combine Christmas markets with wine tasting?
Yes. Most Wine Route cellars stay open in December, though some close earlier in the day (5 pm instead of 6 pm). Markets almost all feature a Cremant d'Alsace and mulled wine stall. A private chauffeur lets you alternate without driving concerns after tastings.
Is there a December surcharge?
No. The chauffeur rate is identical year-round. However, high December demand requires booking 3 to 4 weeks ahead, especially on weekends.
What to wear for the markets?
Warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, waterproof shoes. December temperatures in Alsace range from -5 to 7 degrees, with occasional snow and plain rain. Dress warm even under the coat.
Do I need tickets for the markets?
No, all Alsatian Christmas markets are free and open access. Only specific events (Ribeauville medieval shows, ice rinks, concerts) may be paid. Verify 7 days before.
Are the markets open every day?
Strasbourg and Colmar open daily 10 am to 8 pm (9 pm on weekends) from 27 November to 30 December 2026. Village markets (Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim) mainly open on weekends, plus public holidays and school breaks. Ribeauville only the first two weekends of December.