Having lived in Alsace my whole life, I can tell you — December here is truly magical. The region transforms into a winter wonderland, with streets glowing under thousands of lights, the smell of spices and mulled wine in the air, and half-timbered houses decorated to perfection. For anyone visiting, the Christmas markets aren’t just pretty sights — they’re a celebration of tradition, culture, and local life.

If you want to explore Alsace like a local, here’s my guide to the must-visit markets and the best foods to try:

Strasbourg is huge, lively, and full of energy. Its enormous Christmas tree and festive lights create an unforgettable atmosphere. Walking through the stalls, you’ll find everything from handmade decorations to local treats — perfect for soaking in the holiday spirit.

Colmar is cozier and colorful. I always recommend sipping a hot juice as you stroll through the market, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant lights. It’s magical at night, when the glow of the wooden stalls reflects off the cobblestones.

Ribeauvillé is my personal favorite. This medieval town completely transforms for Christmas. Imagine soup served in bread bowls, little fires to warm your hands, and medieval performances that make it feel like stepping into a living storybook. The combination of food, culture, and atmosphere is unbeatable.

And then, of course, there’s the food — essential to any Alsatian Christmas experience:

🥨 Bretzel — Soft, warm, and perfect with a glass of mulled wine while wandering the stalls.
🍷 Vin Chaud — Alsatian gluewine made with local white wine, cinnamon, citrus, cloves, and honey. Don’t miss the classic “vin chaud au Riesling.”
🥘 Choucroute garnie — Sauerkraut with sausages, smoked meats, and potatoes, a hearty and traditional dish.
🍞 Tartes flambées — Thin, crispy dough topped with sour cream, onions, and bacon. Traditional, gratinée, or forestière — all are amazing.
🍖 Baeckeoffe — Slow-cooked casserole of beef, pork, lamb, potatoes, and aromatic herbs — perfect for warming up after wandering in the cold.
🍪 Bredele — Tiny Christmas cookies in dozens of flavors: cinnamon, almond, butter, orange, hazelnut. Families bake them by the kilo!
🧀 Munster cheese — Strong, creamy, iconic Alsace flavor. Eat it with potatoes or try it with cumin seeds and honey.
🍰 Kougelhopf — Light, buttery brioche, sometimes filled with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar — perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

🎄 Market specials — Mannele (little brioche men, either plain or with chocolate chips), artisanal pain d’épices, raclette sandwiches, crêpes, waffles with local jams, and more.

Local tips to plan your visit:

• Kaysersberg: Friday to Sunday, 28 Nov – 21 Dec, 10am–8pm

• Ribeauvillé: Two weekends only, 6–7 & 13–14 Dec, 10am–7pm

• Colmar: 25 Nov – 29 Dec, 11am–8pm

• Strasbourg: 26 Nov – 24 Dec, 11:30am–9pm

• Don’t forget smaller gems like Riquewihr, Bergheim, Eguisheim, and Obernai — each has its own charm.

Visiting Alsace at Christmas is not just sightseeing — it’s immersing yourself in the culture, tasting the local specialties, feeling the traditions, and sharing the warmth of the season. Every market has its story, every treat has a history, and the whole region feels alive in a way you won’t forget.

Want to experience Alsace like a local, learn about its traditions, and maybe practice some French while you explore? Contact me and I’ll show you how!