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In the fall, as the temperatures start to drop, the Alsace region and its inhabitants start to get ready for the holiday season. For this region in Eastern France, Christmas is one of the most important events of the year. It not only attracts the tourists that are vital to the local economy, but also turns the area into a wonderland for people on winter vacations.
Christmastime in Alsace is synonymous with shopping for handmade gifts at Christmas markets, sipping mulled wine on quaint streets, indulging in traditional treats such as gingerbread or “Christstollen,” and admiring the decorations on the facades of half-timbered buildings.
Without further ado, here are 5 must-visit towns and villages for experiencing the magic of an Alsatian Christmas.
1. Strasbourg
Nicknamed the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is home to several Christmas markets each year, the oldest and most famous of which is the Christkindelsmärik, dating from the 16th century.
2. Colmar
Make a point of taking a stroll (or two) along the beautifully decorated streets of this fairytale town.
3. Riquewihr
Delight in the colorful Alsatian homes dotting the streets of this picturesque village.
4. Eguisheim
It’s not for nothing that Eguisheim was named one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its flower-bedecked homes and vineyards provide for an unforgettable setting for tourists.
5. Ribeauvillé
This Alsatian village is made idyllic by mountains topped with medieval castles in the distance, especially when snow covers the region in the winter. No trip to Ribeauvillé is complete without a visit to the medieval Christmas market!
