7 Best Christmas Markets near Strasbourg
Strasbourg has been our hometown for a few years now, and it’s a city we absolutely adore. For us, Strasbourg is best known as the Christmas Capital, as each December it transforms into a magical fairytale city. The streets come alive with dazzling lights, stunning illuminations, enchanting Christmas markets, and the irresistible aromas of festive treats. Strasbourg is a must-visit destination during this time of year.
But the charm doesn’t stop there. Strasbourg is located in the Alsace region, and if you’re in Strasbourg, you simply must explore the medieval towns of Alsace. During December, these towns host their own Christmas markets—smaller than Strasbourg’s but equally incredible and brimming with festive spirit.
Every year, we make it a tradition to visit not only the Strasbourg Christmas Market but also several of the Christmas markets near Strasbourg. That’s exactly why we created this article: to share with you all our favorite Christmas markets near Strasbourg and help you plan your perfect holiday adventure.
Map of the Christmas Markets near Strasbourg
How to visit the Christmas Markets near Strasbourg
The best way to visit the Christmas markets near Strasbourg depends on your mode of transportation. If you have a car or rental (we highly recommend rentalcars.com for its reliability and great experiences), you can base yourself in Strasbourg and take day trips to the nearby Christmas markets. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to avoid traveling back and forth, consider spending a few days in Strasbourg and then moving to Colmar for easier access to other markets.
For those relying on public transportation, traveling by train from Strasbourg to Obernai and Colmar is both convenient and efficient, allowing you to explore the charming Christmas market near Strasbourg with ease. You can check all schedules on Omio.
The journey from Strasbourg to Obernai covers approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) and takes an average of 34 minutes. There are typically 31 trains per day on this route. Tickets are affordable, starting at €3.34 when booked in advance. Obernai’s train station is centrally located, making it easy to reach the town’s attractions, including its Christmas market.
The train ride from Strasbourg to Colmar spans about 64 kilometers (40 miles) and lasts around 30 minutes, with the fastest trains completing the journey in just 26 minutes. There are roughly 41 trains per day on this route. Ticket prices start at €5.25 when booked ahead of time. Colmar’s station is located near the city center, offering easy access to its renowned Christmas market and picturesque old town.
Once in Colmar, you can use the Christmas Market Shuttle to explore the markets near Colmar. This combination ensures you make the most of your trip while enjoying the festive charm of the region.
Where to Stay to visit the Christmas markets near Strasbourg
We would recommend staying in Strasbourg and then Colmar. Those are the biggest city near the Christmas markets and therefore perfect starting points.
Where to stay in Strasbourg:
- (€): Hôtel Tandem – Boutique Hôtel
- (€€): Hôtel & Spa Le Bouclier D’or
- (€€€): Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery
Where to stay in Colmar:
Colmar Christmas Shuttle
The Christmas Shuttle from Colmar offers a convenient way to explore the enchanting Christmas markets in the surrounding Alsatian towns. Here’s what you need to know:
Routes and Schedule:
- Lines 1 & 2: Connecting Colmar with Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé. Services operate on Fridays (hourly), Saturdays, and Sundays (every 30 minutes) from November 29 to December 22, 2024.
- Line 3: Daily service between Colmar and Eguisheim from November 29 to December 22, 2024.
- Line 4: Connecting Colmar with Turckheim and Munster on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays within the same dates.
Fares:
- Monday to Thursday: €8 per person for a day pass.
- Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays: €15 per adult for a day pass.
- Children under 12 and Alsa Plus ticket holders travel free.
Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be bought directly from the bus driver or service personnel. It’s advisable to have exact change.
Additional Information: The shuttle departs from Colmar train station and stops near the Christmas markets in each town. For detailed schedules and updates, refer to the official Colmar Christmas website.
Utilizing the Christmas Shuttle allows you to experience the festive atmosphere of multiple Alsatian towns without the hassle of driving and parking during the busy holiday season.
Getting a SIM Card
One of our least favorite things to do when we arrive in a new country is to have to figure out how to get a good sim card. From finding where is the shop, in the airport, or the city center? To deal with the registrations, giving ID and even finding which operator is the best… Well, it’s a true headache.
That’s why, we started using Airalo, for countries where our sim card doesn’t have free coverage. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that gives you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards) for 200+ countries/regions to be connected anywhere in the world the second you land.
In France, you can get an Airalo eSim of 5GB for 13,5€ or 10GB for 22€.
Christmas Markets near Strasbourg
Strasbourg Christmas Market
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” the Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Running from November 27 to December 27, 2024, the market transforms the city into a festive wonderland with over 300 stalls spread across multiple locations. Key spots include Place Broglie, which hosts the main market, and Place Kléber, home to the iconic Great Christmas Tree. Visitors can enjoy local crafts, delicious Alsatian treats like mulled wine and bredele cookies, and festive concerts. Strasbourg’s medieval architecture and dazzling lights make it a must-visit among the Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
Obernai Christmas Market
The closest Christmas market near Strasbourg is the Obernai Christmas Market, held from November 24 to December 24, 2024. Perfect for those looking for a more intimate and authentic Alsatian experience, Obernai is located just a short drive from Strasbourg. This charming market is centered around Gastronomy and Crafts, with stalls offering regional specialties such as foie gras, Alsatian wines, and gingerbread, along with handcrafted gifts. The beautifully decorated town square, combined with Obernai’s half-timbered houses, creates a magical setting. Additionally, the market hosts festive events like choir performances, making it a unique stop on your journey to explore Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
Colmar Christmas Market
Perhaps the most famous Christmas market near Strasbourg, the Colmar Christmas Market runs from November 24 to December 29, 2024, offering a magical experience with six distinct markets scattered throughout its historic old town. Each market has a unique theme, ranging from artisanal crafts to gourmet food and wine. Notable locations include Place des Dominicains and Place Jeanne d’Arc, which showcase festive decorations and unique gifts. The illuminated streets and canals of Colmar create a postcard-perfect setting, cementing its reputation as one of the most beautiful Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
Ribeauvillé Christmas Market
Ribeauvillé is the most unique Christmas market near Strasbourg thanks to its medieval theme. Held in the heart of a historic village on December 7-8 and December 14-15, 2024, this market transports visitors back in time. The streets are alive with costumed performers, jugglers, traditional musicians, and artisans showcasing their crafts. Visitors can enjoy medieval-inspired foods and warm up with mulled wine served in traditional mugs. Ribeauvillé’s ancient architecture and vibrant festive ambiance make it a standout among the Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
Riquewihr Christmas Market
The Riquewihr Christmas Market, held from November 29 to December 22, 2024, takes place in one of Alsace’s most picturesque villages. Known for its cobbled streets and colorful half-timbered houses, Riquewihr provides a stunning backdrop for this cozy market. Visitors can browse stalls filled with local delicacies such as Alsatian cheeses, pretzels, and mulled wine, along with handmade gifts. Decked out in festive lights, Riquewihr offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an essential stop when visiting Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
Kaysersberg Christmas Market
The Kaysersberg Christmas Market, open every weekend (Friday to Sunday) from November 29 to December 22, 2024, is one of the most authentic in the region. It is, at the moment, our favorite Christmas market near Strasbourg, thanks to its focus on local crafts and gastronomy. Set against the backdrop of Kaysersberg’s medieval streets and castle ruins, the market features artisanal goods such as handmade ornaments, pottery, and traditional specialties like kugelhopf and foie gras. Its traditional vibe and stunning surroundings make Kaysersberg a highlight of the holiday season.
Eguisheim Christmas Market
The Eguisheim Christmas Market, held from November 24 to December 24, 2024, is located in one of France’s most charming villages. Renowned for its circular layout and colorful houses, Eguisheim provides an intimate and cozy setting for this festive market. Visitors can explore stalls offering handcrafted goods, traditional Alsatian food, and beautifully crafted holiday decorations. Its peaceful atmosphere and enchanting decorations make Eguisheim a top choice for those seeking smaller yet equally magical Christmas markets near Strasbourg.
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