Riquewihr Christmas Market Guide
Riquewihr Christmas Market – Friday, November 27 to Sunday, December 20, 2026
I spent 4 magical days in Riquewihr and instantly fell in love with this charming medieval village. If you have ever dreamed of stepping into a Christmas movie, this is probably what you imagined.
Riquewihr is already one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace, with its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and historic stone walls. But during the Christmas season, the entire village transforms into something truly special. The streets are covered in twinkling lights, storefronts are decorated, and every corner feels like it was designed for a Christmas postcard.
The Christmas market itself is smaller and more intimate than some of the larger markets in Alsace, but that is exactly what makes it so magical. Instead of feeling like a large festival, it feels like you are wandering through a historic village where locals have decorated every street and opened little wooden stalls filled with handmade gifts, regional foods, and Christmas treats.
One of my favorite things about Riquewihr is that the magic does not stop when the market closes. The village itself is the experience. Walking through the quiet streets at night with the Christmas lights glowing, seeing the decorations on the old buildings, and hearing the bells from the church creates a feeling that is hard to describe.
How to Get Around the Alsace Region
Getting to Riquewihr was surprisingly pretty easy without a car. I arrived in Strasbourg by train from Paris, switched trains in Strasbourg, and headed to Colmar. Then, in Colmar, I took an Uber to Riquewihr. There is also a bus, but after traveling all day and having my luggage, I wanted something a little more convenient.
Once you’re in Riquewihr, going from village to village is super easy with the Christmas market shuttle. During the holiday season, special shuttles connect several of the smaller Christmas market towns, making it much easier to visit places like Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Ribeauvillé, and other villages without worrying about parking. The shuttles typically run on select dates during the Christmas market season, and tickets can be purchased in advance online. For the 2026 season, shuttles will run from November 27 through December 20, with tickets going on sale November 12, 2026. These tickets do sell out, so make sure you set a reminder for November 12th!
If you do decide to drive, just be aware that there is a lot of traffic and the parking options are not great. I saw lots of people having to park pretty far outside of the villages and walk along the road.
Where to Stay in Riquewihr
If you want to experience the true magic of Riquewihr at Christmas, I highly recommend staying overnight in the village. I stayed at B. Espace Suites, located right in the heart of the medieval town, and the location could not have been more perfect.
One of my favorite parts about staying here was being able to step outside and immediately be surrounded by Christmas lights, cobblestone streets, and charming half-timbered buildings. The suites beautifully blend the historic character of Alsace with modern comforts, including details like exposed wooden beams that add to the cozy, storybook atmosphere.
From my bed, I could see the Christmas lights glowing outside my window, which honestly felt like something out of a Christmas movie. Staying overnight in Riquewihr allowed me to experience the village in a way that many visitors don’t get to. During the day, the streets are filled with people exploring the Christmas market, but in the evening, after the crowds leave, the village becomes quiet and incredibly magical.
What to Eat in Riquewihr
To be completely honest, I did not eat at a single sit-down restaurant during my time in Riquewihr! The food at the chrimstas markets is really good and its part of the reason i love the markets so much! One thing to keep in mind if you do want a traditional sit-down meal in Riquewihr: make a reservation ahead of time. Restaurants in these small villages can fill up quickly during the Christmas market season.
Here are some of the foods and drinks you should try while visiting Riquewihr:
Choucroute Garnie (Alsatian Cabbage with Meat and Potatoes)
One of the most traditional dishes from Alsace is choucroute garnie. This hearty dish is made with fermented cabbage, different types of meat, and potatoes. It is the perfect cold-weather meal after spending hours walking through the Christmas markets.
Spätzle
Spätzle is a traditional Alsatian egg noodle that you will find throughout the region. It is warm, comforting, and the perfect option when you want something filling while exploring.
Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche)
You cannot visit Alsace without trying tarte flambée. This thin, crispy flatbread is traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. It is one of the most popular foods you will find at the Christmas markets and makes a great quick meal.
Pretzels
You will find pretzels everywhere in Alsace, and they are the perfect snack while walking through the markets. I tried several during my trip, including filled pretzels with cheese and meat. They are a great option when you want something quick and easy while exploring.
Vin Chaud (Mulled Wine)
No Christmas market experience in Alsace is complete without trying vin chaud. This warm, spiced wine is served throughout the markets and is the perfect drink to enjoy while walking through the Christmas lights. Many vendors also serve it in collectible mugs, which make a fun souvenir.
Hot Chocolate
If wine is not your thing, hot chocolate is another great option. There is nothing better than warming up with a cup of hot chocolate while wandering through a magical Christmas village.
Quick Bite in Riquewihr
If you are looking for something quick and affordable, I stopped at O P’tit Snack and had a really good sandwich. It was a great option when I wanted something easy and filling without spending a lot of time at a restaurant.
What to Buy in Riquewihr
One of my favorite parts about exploring the Christmas markets in Alsace is that the shopping goes beyond just Christmas decorations.
You will find handmade items from local artisans, including soaps, lotions, scarves, purses, jewelry, and other unique gifts that you will not find in a typical souvenir shop. It is the perfect place to pick up something special for yourself or find gifts for friends and family back home.
Of course, you cannot forget about the food! The Christmas markets are filled with sweet treats and local specialties that are perfect to bring home, including chocolates, cookies, candies, and other Alsatian goodies.
