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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, Ribeauvillé (medieval markets on the first two weekends of December) and Eguisheim. A private chauffeur avoids saturated parking and lets you enjoy mulled wine and Crémant 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
Openings are staggered across a week: Mulhouse on 20 November 2026, Colmar on the 24th, then most vineyard villages on the 27th. Closings are spread wider still, from 20 December for Kaysersberg and Riquewihr to 31 December for Obernai. Two exceptions to remember: Ribeauvillé holds its medieval market only on 5, 6, 12 and 13 December, and Strasbourg closes on 24 December at most of its sites, the city publishing official dates in the autumn.
The eight markets in one line each
Eight markets run in December between Mulhouse and Obernai. Each has its own page, with dates, opening hours and access:
- Strasbourg: eight sites and more than 300 chalets, the oldest market in France since 1570.
- Colmar: six themed markets in a centre you cross in ten minutes.
- Ribeauvillé: a medieval re-enactment on two weekends only.
- Riquewihr: the only large vineyard market open every day.
- Kaysersberg: vetted exhibitors, Friday to Sunday only.
- Eguisheim: the quietest of the large villages, open until 30 December.
- Obernai: the latest in Alsace, open until 31 December.
- Mulhouse: the first to open, built around its yearly Christmas fabric.
Choosing between them
The choice rests on three variables: your dates, the day of the week and your tolerance for crowds. On a Tuesday, Riquewihr is the only village open. On an early December weekend, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg all run at once, which happens on just four days a year. The full comparison is handled by the market comparison, and parking by its own page.
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 hr).
- Day 1 afternoon: transfer to Colmar (45 min), visit Petite Venise and 5 markets (3 hr).
- Day 1 evening: overnight in Colmar, traditional dinner.
- Day 2 morning: Eguisheim (2 hr) then Kaysersberg (2 hr), lunch on-site.
- Day 2 afternoon: Riquewihr (2 hr) then Ribeauvillé (2 hr) 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 Crémant 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 (Ribeauvillé medieval shows, ice rinks, concerts) may be paid. Verify 7 days before.
Are the markets open every day?
No, and the gap matters. Strasbourg, Colmar, Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Obernai and Mulhouse open every day of their season. Kaysersberg opens Friday to Sunday only, and Ribeauvillé on just four days, 5, 6, 12 and 13 December 2026. A midweek trip is therefore built around the first six.
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