ALSACE, FRANCE

If there's one place in Europe that feels like Christmas was invented there, it's Alsace. Nestled along the border of France and Germany, this storybook region combines the best of both worlds - French elegance with German coziness - and wraps it all up in holiday magic. Picture half-timbered houses that look straight out of a Disney movie, winding cobblestone streets draped with garland, and church steeples rising above rooftops dusted with twinkling lights.

From Strasbourg’s world-famous Christkindelsmärik to the smaller village markets in Colmar, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, Alsace transforms into a winter wonderland. Stalls overflow with hand-carved ornaments, gingerbread hearts, and steaming mugs of vin chaud. The festive glow paired with centuries-old architecture makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into a holiday storybook.

Alsace at Christmastime isn’t just a destination - - it’s where France and Germany come together to celebrate the season in pure fairytale style.

COLMAR

At Christmas, Colmar doesn't just decorate - it transforms. The entire old town turns into a glowing village of six Christmas markets, each with its own character. Every corner offers a dose of festive wonder. Wooden chalets overflow with handcrafted ornaments, steaming mugs of vin chard perfume the air, and bakers tempt you with bred eke cookies and spiced gingerbread. It is truly one of the most enchanting Christmas destinations in Europe.

WHERE TO STAY

We spent 2 nights at Hotel Le Maréchal. This hotel couldn't have been more perfect. Set right along the canals of Petite Venise (the most picturesque part of town) the location puts you steps away from Colmar’s Christmas markets, winding cobblestone streets, and glowing half-timbered houses. From the hotel’s front door, you can wander straight into the heart of the festivities, yet still retreat to a cozy corner when you’re ready for peace and quiet.

And the decor? One word - WOW! The hotel itself feels like part of the storybook setting. Built in 1565, Le Maréchal blends Alsatian charm with timeless elegance. Exposed beams, antique furnishings, and rich fabrics create an atmosphere that’s warm and romantic, while still offering modern comforts. Some rooms overlook the canals (ours did!), giving you a front-row view of Colmar’s twinkling lights and festive magic right from your window.

Whether you’re sipping a glass of Alsace wine in the lounge or waking up to the sound of church bells echoing over Petite Venise, Hôtel Le Maréchal makes you feel completely immersed in the spirit of Colmar. It’s not just a place to stay - it’s part of the fairytale experience.

Another option, which Craig stayed at back in 2023, is this Airbnb which he absolutely loved.

COLMAR'S CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Colmar doesn't have just one Christmas Market, it celebrates the season with SIX markets sprinkled throughout the city, each with its own charm. Detailed information can be found on the Alsace Christmas website here. The Place de l’Ancienne Douane market dazzles with traditional Alsatian crafts, while Place Jeanne d’Arc feels like a cozy village square filled with regional specialties. Families flock to the Petite Venise market, designed especially for children with rides and sweet treats. The Gourmet Market tempts foodies with gourmet bites and mulled wine, while Place des Dominicains glows under the stained-glass windows of its namesake church. Finally, the Indoor Market at Koïfhus showcases local artisans and antiques in a historic setting. Together, these six markets create a magical patchwork of lights, flavors, and traditions that make Colmar one of Europe’s most unforgettable Christmas destinations.

2025 Christmas Market Dates

GOURMET MARKET: November 24, 2025 - January 3, 2026.

PLACE JEANNE D'ARC MARKET: November 24, 2025 - December 28, 2025.

KOÏFHUS MARKET: November 24, 2025 - December 28, 2025.

PLACE DE L'ANCIENNE DOUANE MARKET: November 24, 2025 - December 28, 2025.

PETITE VENISE MARKET: November 24, 2025 - December 28, 2025.

PLACE DES DOMINICAINS MARKET: November 24, 2025 - December 28, 2025.

BONUS SPOTS

Carrousel 1900

So this isn't an official Christmas Market but it was one of my favorite places in Colmar to grab a cup of vin chaud in THE MOST adorable mug! The mug I got here was probably my favorite one of the entire trip! Carrousel 1900 is located at Place Rapp, located right next to Parc du Champ-de-Mars, which is just a 10-minute stroll from the Colmar train station. The stand out here is the carousel bar which actually rotates while you're on it having your drink! Craig stumbled upon this spot on his trip in 2023 which is how I found out about it.

K Bar at L'esquisse Hotel and Spa

So I can't find this exact spot on Google Maps but it's either called K Bar or Le Chalet which is attached to the L'esquisse Hotel and Spa. This was another one of Craig's finds from 2023. This is the coziest little corner that you may very well have all to yourself, like we did! It's such a hidden gem. If you see the giant bronze face, you're on the right track.

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

Vin chaud: This is the French version of glühwein or mulled wine.

Jus chaud: A non-alcoholic hot fruit juice, often apple or orange, spiced up with cinnamon and cloves.

Tarte flambée: I call this French pizza. It's a very thin, crispy crust topped with cream, onions, and bacon.

Bredele: Traditional French Christmas cookies. They are simple, shortbread-like cookies cut into various festive shapes.

Grumbeerekiechle: Potato cakes, often served with melted Munster cheese.

Choucroute Garnie: Sauerkraut cooked with various meats, often smoked pork, sausages, etc.

FAQ

Cash or card? Cash is strongly recommended. Many food/drink stalls prefer cash.

Public Restrooms? Yes, however, most charge a small fee. It is helpful to always have coins on hand for this reason.

Mug deposit? When you order a beverage, most vendors charge a deposit for the mug in addition to the cost of the drink. That deposit which is generally 1-3 euros, covers the cost of the mug. You can choose to keep the mug as a souvenir or return it when you are done with it, and in doing so, you'll get your deposit back.

Are the markets free? Yes, the markets are all free to enter. Most stalls are open-air and window shopping is always free 🙂

Is there public transportation? Yes, there are trains, buses, and shuttles throughout the region.

How busy is it? BUSY, VERY BUSY, especially on the weekends. We'd recommend going as early in the season and on weekdays.

EXPLORING THE ALSACE REGION

Colmar is a great base in the Alsace region and makes venturing off to other surrounding towns super convenient and easy. Other towns we visited on this trip were Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim, and Strasbourg. Each one had its own charm and personality (guides coming soon!)

FINAL THOUGHTS

✨ Visiting the Colmar Christmas Markets is like stepping into a fairytale. With twinkling lights reflecting on half-timbered houses, steaming mugs of vin chaud in hand, and the aroma of spiced cookies filling the air, it’s no wonder Colmar is often called one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Whether you’re exploring Petite Venise, tasting Alsatian specialties, or shopping for handmade gifts, Colmar brings the magic of the holidays to life. If you’re planning a Christmas getaway in France, make sure Colmar is at the top of your list - - it’s a festive experience you’ll never forget.