Christmas markets in France: Strasbourg, Colmar, Riquewihr and Metz

If there is one place in France that lives for Christmas, it is Alsace. The region on the German border combines French elegance with German Christmas traditions – half-timbered houses, canals, vineyards and some of the oldest markets in Europe. We have also added Metz in neighbouring Lorraine. For other countries, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.

When and how to go

• Season: the Alsace markets open in late November. Strasbourg runs until 24 December, Colmar usually until 29 December and Metz until the end of December.
• Getting there: the easiest way is to fly to Basel-Mulhouse, Frankfurt or Paris and continue by train. Strasbourg and Colmar are about 30 minutes apart by train, and Riquewihr is a short bus or car ride from Colmar.
• Documents: France is in the EU and Schengen – Bulgarian citizens travel with an ID card.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg proudly calls itself the "Capital of Christmas" – its market tradition dates back to the 16th century. In December the whole old town is decorated and looks magical in the evening.

Christmas markets

• Christkindelsmärik – the historic market on Place Broglie, one of the oldest in France.
• Place Kléber – home to Strasbourg's giant Christmas tree.
• Cathedral square – ornaments, sweets and regional products beneath the Gothic façade.
• Petite France – the most romantic district, with canals and festively decorated houses.

What else to see

Notre-Dame Cathedral with its astronomical clock, the Palais Rohan museums, the Vauban Dam with city views, Place Gutenberg and – if you like – the European Parliament building.

What to eat

Choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages), flammekueche – a thin Alsatian "pizza" with cream, onions and bacon, and baeckeoffe – a meat and potato bake.

Colmar

Colourful half-timbered houses, canals and little bridges – Colmar looks like a cartoon set, and in December it is even more magical.

Christmas markets

Colmar has several markets just a few minutes' walk from each other:

• Place des Dominicains – traditional ornaments and handmade gifts.
• Around the old Koïfhus customs house – one of the most beautiful, by the canal.
• Little Venice – a small, charming market along the canals, with a children's area.
• Place Jeanne d'Arc – local cheeses, wines and sweets.
• Place des Six Montagnes Noires – gifts and crafts.

What else to see

Little Venice in the evening, when the lights reflect in the water, the Maison des Têtes with dozens of carved faces on its façade, the Maison Pfister, the Unterlinden Museum with the Isenheim Altarpiece and the museum of Bartholdi – creator of the Statue of Liberty.

What to eat

Flammekueche, kougelhopf – a ring-shaped cake, and bredele – traditional Christmas biscuits.

Riquewihr

A medieval village among the vineyards, one of the most beautiful in France. Its market is small, and that is exactly its charm – a calm, authentic Christmas without big-city crowds.

Christmas markets

• The market in the historic centre – wooden stalls with ornaments, local sweets and gifts. It usually runs from late November to around 20–22 December.
• Shops along the main street – Christmas decorations, ceramics and Alsace wines.

What else to see

The Dolder Tower – the village's symbol, the Thieves' Tower, the main street with its colourful façades and wine cellars offering tastings.

What to eat

Alsace white wines – Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Riquewihr is perfect for a half-day trip from Colmar.

Metz

One of France's most underrated winter destinations – beautiful squares, an impressive cathedral and large light installations.

Christmas markets

• Place Saint-Louis – among medieval arcaded buildings, one of the most charming.
• Place de la République – a large festive area with rides.
• Place d'Armes – next to the cathedral, with traditional products.
• Lantern trail – a light route with glowing figures.

In 2026 the Metz markets run roughly from 20 November to 30 December.

What else to see

Saint-Étienne Cathedral with its huge stained-glass windows, the Centre Pompidou-Metz, the medieval Porte des Allemands and the Temple Neuf church on an island in the river.

What to eat

Quiche Lorraine and tart made with the local mirabelle plums.

Tip: stay in Colmar or Strasbourg and visit the other places on day trips. Strasbourg is very crowded at weekends – weekdays are more pleasant.

Dates are based on information available in November 2026 and may vary by source – check the city's website before you travel.

Need help planning?

The Clio Travel team will help you with flights, trains and hotels in Alsace so you can enjoy the Christmas markets without the hassle. For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.