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Alsace Christmas Markets

Discover the Magic of the Holiday Season Like a Local

Discover the magic of the Alsace Christmas markets and get fully immersed in this local tradition

Are you dreaming of wandering through the festive Christmas markets of Alsace but feeling a bit overwhelmed by where to start? No worries, we’ve got you covered. During this UnTour, you’ll step into the heart of Alsatian culture and explore the markets like a local, while being surrounded by vineyards, medieval castles, and charming, fairy-tale villages.

Let’s not forget the food! Alsace’s blend of French and German culinary traditions comes alive during the holiday season. Picture the aroma of sizzling Wurst sausages on the grill, the rich, savory flavors of choucroute—a local dish of sauerkraut, charcuterie meats, and sausages—and the comfort of warm potatoes. Then there are the sweet temptations: crispy waffles, delicate crêpes, and the irresistible bredeles (spiced biscuits) and maneles (gingerbread brioche). Every bite is a taste of history.

For wine lovers, Alsace offers some of the finest Riesling and Gewürztraminer along the famed Alsace Wine Route, or you might want to try the local Alsatian lager, a brew with German roots, crafted with pure underground water. Don’t miss the vin chaud, the local spin on mulled wine made from the region’s prized white wines—a perfect warm-up in the crisp winter air.

Your UnGuide will take care of every detail, ensuring an immersive and stress-free experience. You’ll stroll among half-timbered houses, medieval spires, and sparkling Christmas lights reflecting off the Rhine River. This 7-day enhanced UnTour is all about savoring the season at a relaxed pace, soaking in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Alsace like a true local.

How is this different from a traditional UnTour?

  • This special week includes a curated daily activity, giving you more chances to dive into the festive spirit. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of time to explore on your own.
  • You’ll be joined by fellow UnTourists for these activities, creating the perfect opportunity to share the experience with new friends, all guided by your trusted UnGuide.
  • The Alsace Christmas Markets week only happens once in 2024, so make sure to book the specific dates to join in on this magical experience!

Rest assured, at its core, this experience will still carry the soul of an UnTour—the chance to unpack once and immerse yourself fully in local life.


What's included

  • One week (or more) in carefully vetted accommodations in Ribeauvillé, Hunawihr, Riquewihr or nearby villages.
  • Suggestions for booking your international flight from the U.S. to your arrival airport, or we can purchase tickets on your behalf. (Click for more information on UnTours' airpolicies.)
  • Car rental, with unlimited mileage and basic insurance, for the duration of your UnTour.
  • An orientation session by our superb on-site staff (UnGuide) with current information on local events, tours, and activities.
  • Exclusive local information on our UnTours travel app for your mobile phone to have all of our recommendations at your fingertips before and throughout your trip -researched and written by UnGuide on the ground in Alsace and full of the best restaurants, sightseeing, and other suggestions.
  • Included activities:
  • Visits to the following Christmas markets: Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, Colmar, Obernai and Strasbourg.
  • Traditional cooking lesson in Obernai.
  • Visit to the Black Forest: Fribourg and Gegenbach.
  • A special farewell dinner!
  • A stash of groceries upon your arrival, so you don’t need to shop right away.
  • Pre-trip planning advice from our staff, available by phone or email right up until you leave.
  • Ongoing support with our UnGuide. Help available when you need it.

Arrival in Alsace

Bienvenue en Alsace! Your adventure begins as you collect your rental car and start your journey through the countryside. As you leave the airport, the landscape gradually shifts, welcoming you with rolling hills and charming villages of Alsace. Vineyards stretch across the horizon, while medieval castles and farmhouses stand watch from hilltops.

Your destination? A cozy apartment, carefully selected by our UnTours team for its charm, comfort, and perfect location. Settle in, get comfortable, and take a moment to feel at home.

Once you’re ready, your UnGuide will meet you for an orientation, sharing everything you need to know for the week ahead. You’ll get insider tips, recommendations, and a taste of what’s in store as you explore the Christmas markets and the region’s rich history. Unwind, you’re in for an unforgettable journey. Here are a few of the highlights:

Many of Alsace’s towns are proudly listed among the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why. Walking down their cobbled streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with half-timbered houses painted in soft pastels and adorned with flower boxes. Our UnGuide will lead you through these charming villages, ensuring you don’t miss the local highlights, hidden corners, and rich history that make each stop unique.

And now, get ready to experience the magic of Christmas like never before. In the Rhenish tradition, this season is one of the most cherished times of the year. The air fills with the scent of spices and cinnamon, streets glow with colorful lights, and the decorations add a majestic touch to every square. It’s a feast for the senses that captures the true spirit of the holidays.

On this journey, we’ll explore the enchanting towns of Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, and, of course, Colmar and Strasbourg—home to some of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Imagine wandering through medieval streets, where acrobats, dancers, street performers, and even fire eaters bring a sense of wonder and transport you to another era. Every stop will immerse you in the festive charm that makes Alsace a dream destination at Christmastime.

Christmas markets on the French side

Many of Alsace’s towns are proudly listed among the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why. Walking down their cobbled streets feels like stepping into a story book, with half-timbered houses painted in soft pastels and adorned with flower boxes. Your UnGuide will lead you through these charming villages, ensuring you don’t miss the local highlights, hidden corners, and rich history that make each stop unique.

Get ready to experience the magic of Christmas like never before. In the Rhenish tradition, this season is one of the most cherished times of the year. The air fills with the scent of cinnamon and spice, the streets glow with colorful lights, and the decorations sparkle in every square. It’s a feast for the senses that captures the true spirit of the festive season.

On this journey, you’ll explore the enchanting towns of Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, and, of course, Colmar and Strasbourg—home to some of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Imagine wandering through medieval streets, where acrobats, dancers, street performers, and even fire eaters bring a sense of wonder and transport you to another era. It will soon be no wonder why Alsace is a dream destination at Christmastime.

Christmas markets on the German side

During the week, you’ll also venture into the enchanting Black Forest, where you’ll find some of the most charming Christmas markets in Germany. Because of its location near France, the Black Forest region has been shaped by a mix of French and German influences. Its long history of shifting control has added to the richness and diversity of its local traditions.

As you explore these picturesque towns, you’ll have the chance to savor the flavors of winter with a warm cup of Glühwein—a mulled wine that can be either red or white. There’s even a special mulled punch for children.

The culinary delights are just as inviting. From the creamy, melted goodness of raclette cheese to the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the irresistible scent of roasted almonds, each bite will give you a taste of the local gastronomic traditions. This part of the tour promises to be a feast for the eyes and the palate, wrapping you in the cozy charm of a Black Forest Christmas.

Traditional cooking class in Obernai

Obernai is celebrated as a culinary haven during the Christmas season. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into Alsatian culture with a hands-on cooking class featuring traditional recipes that reflect the region’s rich blend of French and German influences. As you cook, you’ll also have the chance to savor the local mulled wine, known for its unique preparation with white wine, slowly simmered in a large cauldron.

Beyond its gastronomic delights, Obernai is also renowned for its skilled artisans. You’ll witness the craftsmanship behind beautifully carved wooden objects, handmade candles, and intricate hand-blown Christmas baubles. These local creations offer a glimpse into the artistry and tradition that make Obernai’s holiday markets truly special.

Expect the unexpected

As you journey through this enchanting week, prepare for a series of delightful surprises and special moments that go beyond the usual itinerary. Your UnGuide, with their deep local knowledge and keen insight, will curate unique experiences throughout the week, tailored to the season and spirit of the region.

Whether it’s a hidden corner of a market, a secret café with a local twist, or a spontaneous encounter with a traditional craftsperson, prepare to fully embrace the medieval atmosphere, rich traditions, and vibrant local life that make this 7-day journey truly memorable.

Farewell dinner

A toast to new friendships and unforgettable experiences! As your journey through Alsace draws to a close, prepare for an evening that celebrates the flavors and friendships you’ve discovered along the way. Your farewell dinner is set in a charming, thoughtfully selected venue that epitomizes the warmth and elegance of Alsatian dining.

This final meal is an opportunity to savor the hearty, expertly crafted dishes that showcase the essence of Alsace’s culinary traditions one last time. You’ll gather around with your fellow travelers and UnGuide, to share reflections on the week’s highlights and the many uncovered treasures.

Here’s to a memorable farewell. Bon appétit!

Departure day

As departure day arrives, your UnGuide will be there to ensure everything goes smoothly. From helping with checkout to handling the return of your rental car, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on your journey ahead.

Until next time—safe travels and see you soon!


Available Accommodations

The comfortable, well-appointed accommodations for this culinary adventure are a great place to unpack, relax and get to know your destination and the people who call it home.


Location



Alsace region - France

Tucked between Switzerland and Germany, Alsace has a charm all its own—a blend of cultures you won’t find anywhere else in France. With a history as colorful as its flower-filled window boxes, this region feels both French and German in the best of ways. The locals take pride in their rich heritage, from the language they speak to the timber-framed houses that line cobbled streets. As you wander through these villages, you’ll find yourself surrounded by medieval architecture, winding lanes, and farmland that seems to stretch forever. Between the dense forests and endless rows of vineyards, Alsace invites you to slow down and soak in its timeless beauty.


Reviews

Here's what our guests have to say

The Christmas markets were absolutely outstading!

★★★★★

We enjoyed every bit of the tour. Mark, our UnGuide went above and beyond for us to have the best experience and we absolutely loved him! I was not expecting such a diversity of culture, food, music, traditions... We had the best time!


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From $2,599 per person
Locally Owned and Operated

The money we pay for your accommodation will benefit the local economy where you will be staying.

Departure Dates

Dec 7, 2024 to Dec 14, 2024

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