If you are looking for the best villages in France in winter to experience magical Christmas markets, you are in the right spot! Keep reading to discover where you should be heading for a fairytale-like experience!
Europe, and France, are widely known for their magical Christmas markets that will make you feel like you are living in a fairytale. However, with so many possible destinations, planning a trip for Christmas can quickly become overwhelming…
Don’t worry, I am here to help you! If you are looking for the best villages in France in winter, there is no doubt… Head to Alsace! Not only is it a beautiful and underrated region of France, but you will also find the best and most authentic Christmas markets there.
Believe me, I’ve been there… I went on a road trip through Alsace a few years ago to find the very best Christmas festivals in France. And I can assure you that I definitely found them…
So stay tuned, I am about to share the best places to visit in France in December so you can live this magical experience too!
This blog post is all about the best villages in France in winter to experience magical Christmas markets.
Best Villages in Alsace in Winter to Witness Magical Christmas Markets!
If you are looking to visit the best villages in France in winter to enjoy the magic of Christmas markets, there is no doubt about where you should be heading… Alsace is the region for you! But before you go, here are a few things to know about Alsace during winter, along with the best Christmas markets to add to your itinerary and other famous Christmas festivals in France you should consider!
So… Stay tuned and start planning your dream vacation to France this winter!
Alsace during winter
Before heading to Alsace to discover the best villages in France in winter, here is some information about this enchanting region.
The region of Alsace is located in the northeast of France, on the border with Germany and Switzerland. It is particularly famous for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque scenery, and distinct traditions.
Charming villages with colorful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and Gothic architecture will make you feel like you’re stepping right into a fairytale. During winter, these villages transform into a true Christmas paradise. Thousands of lights and decorations, Christmas markets, and festive spirit attract tourists from all over the world.
Did you know that Alsatian Christmas markets are among the oldest and most authentic in France, and even in Europe? No wonder Strasbourg, the capital of the region, is often referred to as the “Christmas Capital.” Whether you’re exploring the biggest and most touristy markets or the smaller, more intimate ones, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Alsace. Between handcrafted items, local food, hot beverages, and Alsatian Christmas traditions, you’re in for a treat no matter which markets you visit!
Before you go, here are a few more tips… Whether you speak French or German, you’ll have no trouble being understood here. With the popularity of the Alsatian Christmas markets among travelers, English is widely spoken too. But, keep in mind that this region of France is cold during winter, and you’ll be spending most of your time outside, so pack layers, gloves, hats, scarves, and anything else to keep you warm during your trip. Don’t worry, though, local cuisine and hot beverages will quickly help you forget about the cold!
Top 3 BEST VILLAGES IN ALSACE IN WINTER
There are a ton of places to visit in Alsace, and believe me, they are all among the most beautiful villages in France. But if you’re looking for the best Christmas markets, here is my top 3. From the larger, more bustling markets to the quaint, intimate ones, if you add these three villages to your itinerary, you’ll have the complete Alsatian Christmas experience—I promise!
COLMAR
Colmar, located in the heart of Alsace, is an emblematic village with a rich and ancient history. Founded around the 9th century, Colmar has preserved its old-world charm with its half-timbered houses, picturesque canals, and cobbled streets.
Colmar’s Christmas markets are among the oldest in the region. They began during the 16th century, when Christmas markets were primarily fairs where locals could buy the supplies they needed to prepare for the holidays.
But why are Colmar’s Christmas markets so unique, and why are they a must-visit on a Christmas market tour in France?
Well, in my opinion, what makes Colmar’s markets stand out is their diversity. The entire town transforms into a Christmas village, but each market has its own theme. For instance, the market at Place des Dominicains is dedicated to local artisans, while the one at Place Jeanne d’Arc showcases Alsatian cuisine with a variety of regional specialties.
No matter what you’re looking for during your trip to Colmar, just stroll through the town and explore all the markets. After all, it’s one of the most beautiful villages in France! The charm of the place, paired with thousands of lights and decorations, will make each walk a magical experience.
Once you’re done with the Christmas festivities, there’s still plenty to see in Colmar. Visit the Petite Venise district and the Unterlinden Museum. And if you’re a wine lover—Alsatian wine is delicious—be sure to visit local wineries to learn more and taste some of the best wines! Finally, if you’re traveling with your significant other, surprise them with a romantic carriage ride through the illuminated town at night. It doesn’t get more romantic than that…
Eguisheim
Eguisheim is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages in France and one of the best places to visit in December. But why, you might ask? First and foremost, did you know that this village inspired the setting for the village in Beauty and the Beast? That fact alone should give you the urge to visit—but keep reading, there’s more to discover!
Even though the Christmas markets in Eguisheim are more recent than others in Alsace, they quickly gained popularity thanks to the authenticity and charm of the village. With local handicrafts and cuisine, Eguisheim’s Christmas markets are the best place to taste local food and explore the region through your taste buds.
Smaller and less touristy than other markets in Alsace, the experience you’ll have at Eguisheim’s Christmas markets will be intimate… And I promise you’ll be delighted!
Once you’re done wandering around the Christmas markets, it’s time to explore the narrow streets of this picturesque village. And if you’re a wine lover, why not visit a local wine cellar? It is the best way to sample new beverages and follow the surrounding footpaths for the best views over the vineyards?
STRASBOURG
Strasbourg, also referred to as the capital of Alsace, is as historically rich as it is culturally. Built during Roman times, the city has been a crossroads between France and Germany for centuries… Which explains its unique architectural heritage and cultural diversity.
Strasbourg’s Christmas market, also known as “Christkindelsmärik,” is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Since then, it has been one of the best places to visit in France in December.
During the last month of the year, the entire city transforms into a Christmas village. Whether you’re looking for Christmas decorations, handmade products, traditional foods, or beverages, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Strasbourg. Believe me, there’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular Christmas festivals in France!
Being so popular, you should be aware that the city will be crowded with tourists from all over the world. But that shouldn’t stop you from visiting. If you are a Christmas lover, you will have the time of your life there.
Once you’ve enjoyed all the Christmas festivities, I suggest taking the time to explore Strasbourg and its major tourist attractions. Not only is the city beautiful… But with La Petite France, its museums, and the river where you can take a cruise, you won’t have time to be bored!
OTHER FAMOUS CHRISTMAS FESTIVALS IN FRANCE
Even though Alsace is one of the best places to visit in France in December for Christmas markets, there are a few other places that are popular and deserve to be considered.
Here is a quick list of my favorite Christmas festivals in France that you should consider adding to your itinerary this winter!
- Lille: The Christmas market in Lille is particularly popular for the “Grande Roue” installed in the main square. Believe me, this is the best place to see the city from above.
- Paris: No surprise here… Paris, the City of Lights, turns into a real fairytale at Christmastime. Walk around the city and enjoy the decorated windows of the major shops.
- Lyon: Around the 13th of December, the city celebrates the Festival of Lights! Head to Lyon to witness this amazing light show and enjoy the Christmas markets there!
- Annecy: Imagine this… Christmas markets by the Lake of Annecy! If you can visit this town at Christmastime, don’t miss the ice sculptors.
Before planning your trip to the best villages in France in winter, take a look at the following tips!
MY TIPS FOR THE BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS EXPERIENCE
- Book your accommodation early: Christmas markets in France, and Europe in general, are so popular that you should book everything as early as possible. Not only will you get the best prices, but you’ll also have a much wider selection to choose from!
- Pack layers: Winter in France can be pretty cold! And chances are you’ll spend a lot of time outside during your trip. Pack layers, hats, gloves, scarves—everything that will make your experience much more enjoyable!
- Avoid the most popular Christmas markets during the weekend: If you can travel during the week, do it! Popular destinations will likely still be crowded with tourists, but on weekends, they’ll be packed with both tourists and locals.
- Bring cash: Even though most vendors accept credit cards, you never know… Bring some cash with you to be prepared for any situation!
- Keep an eye on your belongings: Unfortunately, Europe is known for its pickpockets… And your trip to the Christmas festivals in France will be no different. Keep your belongings close and be careful in crowded places.
- Take your time: I highly suggest you take your time and don’t over-plan your itinerary. Discover smaller markets, wander through narrow streets, soak in the Christmas spirit… And don’t hesitate to take breaks at cafés to warm up before heading to your next market!