Eguisheim Christmas Market: The prettiest village in France
Eguisheim is a bright and sparkling village at Christmas. It’s not just in France, but seemingly straight out of a French fairy tale and the Eguisheim Christmas Market is next level. It’s no exaggeration to say that Eguisheim is the most charming spot in the country, especially when the Christmas markets roll in from November 24th to December 30th.
This place isn’t just beautiful; it’s award-winningly beautiful, and when it decks itself out for the holidays, it’s like stepping into a dream you never want to wake up from. The Eguisheim Christmas Market is a centuries-old tradition that’s as timeless as it is festive. It is said the priority is given to thirty craftsmen that live in the area and create authentic timeless pieces.
Imagine this: pastel coloured half timbered houses, streets that twist and turn like a storybook maze, and fairy lights-adorned windowsills that look like they’ve been painted for a movie set. Eguisheim is that movie set – the real-life inspiration for tales of beauty and beasts, where every corner promises a new picture perfect photo spot. The air is thick with the scent of mulled spices and the sounds of festive cheer. This is the ultimate Christmas Market Guide for Eguisheim, one of the most beautiful villages in France and the ideal place for a festive break.
Best activities & tours in Alsace
Best activities & tours in Alsace
| Alsace Christmas Tours – It’s worth learning about the incredible history in Alsace. Alsace Wine Route – if you’re a wino, this is for you! Medieval Villages in Alsace – One of the most iconic experiences in Alsace. Alsace Walking tour– for an authentic French experience. Alsace Private tour – the most scenic views around Alsace, fully private and customisable! |
Quick links
| Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad: Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia. E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card! Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it! Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best power bank! |
Eguisheim Christmas Markets: The Prettiest village in Franc
Eguisheim’s Christmas markets, a spellbinding spectacle, might just be the hidden jewel of Europe’s festive crown. The Alsace Christmas Markets are honestly something else! Here, the quaint village, seemingly plucked from the pages of a Brothers Grimm fable, transforms into a Yuletide paradise that rivals the grandest of holiday dreams. The decor transcends; it’s a whimsical embrace of the season, where fairy lights weave through the air like stardust trails, Christmas trees stand as towering sentinels of joy, and ice rinks glisten under the alpenglow, beckoning skaters to etch their tales.
The village, with its festive finery, becomes an incredible Disney movie set (feels like, anyway!) where every nook cradles a story, every cranny a secret. Teddy bears, plump and plush, guard the doorways, while post boxes brim with missives bound for the North Pole, and reindeer effigies stand sentinel at every twist and turn. Eguisheim’s intimate Christmas market is not just a destination but a heartfelt invitation to all— friends clinking mugs of mulled wine (also known as vin chaud!), families weaving memories, lovers stealing kisses under mistletoe-laden archways. It’s a place where a day’s stay unfolds into three, where the village’s charm compels you to linger, to explore, to simply be.
Interested in other European Christmas markets? Read about the Colmar Christmas Markets here!
The Christmas Markets in Eguisheim
In the cozy corners of Place du Marché aux Saules and Place Monseigneur Stumpf. Each square is the perfect, quaint and charming little square, where the air is thick with the sweet aroma of mulled wine, Alsatian flambees and festive cheer.
TIP: make your way to the village’s beating heart, Place du Château pictured below. It’s more than just a square; it’s the essence of Eguisheim. Admire the grand Renaissance fountain. Look up, and you’ll meet the gaze of Pope Léon IX, immortalized in stone, presiding over the Eguisheim Christmas Markets with silent benevolence.
The enchantment of Eguisheim at Christmastime is the village itself, a tapestry of lights casting a glow that would make even the stars envious. The pedestrian streets, a labyrinth of history, invite footsteps to tread over cobblestones worn smooth by time, past buildings that whisper tales; I couldn’t get over how long the fairy lit alleyways stretched on for. Here, history is not just seen but felt, an ever-present companion as you meander through the medieval marvels.
nThe markets, a treasure trove of the artisan’s craft, are a feast for the senses and the soul—and they ask for no toll. Wander & wonder, and let your whims guide your wallet. And for those who wish to delve deeper into the village’s lore, guided tours unravel the rich tapestry of Eguisheim’s past, each story more captivating than the last, each step a journey through time. Beyond the festive fray, Eguisheim’s museums await, sanctuaries of culture and art.
They house echoes of history and the pulse of the present, from the Unterlinden Museum’s vast collection to the Bartholdi Museum’s homage to the sculptor of Liberty herself. And just when you think you’ve seen all the wonders Eguisheim has to offer, a turn of a corner might just reveal a replica of Lady Liberty, a silent nod to the village’s far-reaching influence (yes, it really has a mini Statue of Liberty nearby!).
I always compare tours on Viator and Get your guide, have a look at some of the best Alsace tours here:
In Eguisheim, Christmas is not just celebrated; it’s lived, breathed, and cherished—a timeless tradition in France’s most storybook village.
Don’t miss nearby… Colmar Christmas Markets!
The Eguisheim Christmas Market is only minutes from Colmar. It’s equally as beautiful; a 40 minute walk, or a bus ride away! The below photos belong to Colmar during the Christmas season.
Interested in other European Christmas markets? Read about the Colmar Christmas Markets here!
Eguisheim Christmas Market Dates 2023
When do the Christmas markets start in Eguisheim 2023?n
Mark your calendars! Eguisheim is decking its halls from 24th November to 30th December 2023 for the annual Christmas market extravaganza.
While the dates are pretty consistent, they might wiggle a bit each year—just enough to keep things interesting. But one thing’s for sure: by the time December hits, this place is buzzing with festive vibes.
I always compare tours on Viator and Get your guide, have a look at some of the best Alsace tours here:
Eguisheim Christmas Market opening times & hours
Market hours are as cozy as a warm blanket—doors swing open at 11 am and the merriment rolls on until 9 pm. But hey, for the exact times, it’s a good idea to check out Eguisheim’s Christmas market website when the holiday air starts to get crisp.n
I always compare tours on Viator and Get your guide, have a look at some of the best Alsace tours.
Eguisheim Christmas Market Map
Worried about getting lost? Don’t be. Market Eguisheim’s got that small-village charm that makes wandering from one sparkly stall to the next as simple as following the strings of fairy lights. It’s like a hug in the form of a market route.
Your festive adventure starts at the Place du Marché aux Saules, right where the spirit of Eguisheim Christmas Markets come alive. Just let the holiday tunes and the scent of gingerbread lead the way.
Interested in other European Christmas markets? Read about the Colmar Christmas Markets here!
Eguisheim Christmas Market Location
Best hotels in Eguisheim & Colmar
I’ve been to Eguisheim and Colmar a number of times and have stayed in a few different places, here are my favourites. Colmar is a short distance from Eguisheim Christmas Market, so you might want to consider staying there too. The only thing you need to bear in mind is that many hotels book up in advance. Book as far in advance as you can to guarantee a good room!
Christmas Tours around Eguisheim
It’s worth going on a guided walking tour around the city to learn more about the incredible history, architecture, stories and legends in Eguisheim Christmas Market. You’ll love it! Have a look at some of the below tours around the Eguisheim Christmas Markets.
How to get to Eguisheim, France?
Getting to the Eguisheim Christmas Markets is a piece of Christmas cake. Whether you’re jetting over from Paris, making the jaunt from Strasbourg, or cruising in from Bern, all roads (and rails) lead to Eguisheim. And once you’re here, it’s like stepping into a holiday snow globe.
Christmas shuttle bus
Don’t miss the Christmas Shuttle Bus to Eguisheim Christmas Market – it costs 10 EUR for a day pass, and it will take you to different villages in the Alsace region, usually including Colmar and Riquewihr, but it depends on what route you go, as there are several different routes!
I always compare tours on Viator and Get your guide, have a look at some of the best Alsace tours here:
From Paris to Eguisheim
Fly to Paris and then hop on a train from Gare de l’Est, and you’ll end up in Eguisheim a couple of hours later; depending on the times it will be around 2-2.5 hours. You’ll have to change at Strasbourg or one of the other terminals to end up at the Eguisheim Christmas Market.
Strasbourg to Eguisheim Christmas Market
You can fly directly into Strasbourg Airport and then get a train to Colmar. The train is around 30 minutes from Strasbourg to Colmar, and then you can get the bus which is another 10 minutes away.
Bern to Eguisheim
You can fly directly into Bern Airport in Switzerland and then get a train to Colmar. The fast train is around 45 minutes from Bern to Colmar, and the regular train is around 1.5h. After this you’ll need to catch a bus, it’s only another 10 minutes away.
When to visit Eguisheim?
Any time’s a good time to visit Eguisheim, but there’s something extra special about the Christmas market season. It’s when the village sparkles the brightest, with every corner dressed up in yuletide joy, it is just waiting for you to come and soak the Eguisheim Christmas Markets with that Christmas magic.
Weather in Eguisheim year round
As for the weather, think ‘winter wonderland’—crisp days that are the perfect excuse to wrap your hands around a steaming mug of something delicious and dive into the festive atmosphere.n
Summer might be the high season when Eguisheim’s beauty is in full swing, but Christmas? That’s when the village really shows off, turning into a hotspot for all things merry and bright.nAnd if you’re a fan of the quieter side of life, the low season’s got its own perks—less hustle and bustle, more space to meander, and sweet deals on places to stay.nSo, what are you waiting for? Get that suitcase out, toss in some holiday cheer, and get ready to make memories in Eguisheim’s Christmas market that’ll last long after the last ornament is packed away.
I always compare tours on Viator and Get your guide, have a look at some of the best Alsace tours here:
High Season (Peak Tourist Season):
- The high season in Eguisheim typically occurs during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn.
- The months of May, June, July, August, and September are considered the peak tourist season.
- During this time, the weather is milder and more favorable for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the picturesque town and its surroundings.
- The Christmas season (late November to December) is also a high season in Eguisheim due to its famous Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
Low Season:
- The low season in Eguisheim usually takes place during the colder months of winter and early spring.
- The months of January, February, March, and April are considered the low season for tourism.
- During this time, the weather is colder, and there are fewer tourists visiting the town and it is much quieter, but in the same vein, hotels and stays are much cheaper!
Eguisheim weather year round
Eguisheim Weather in January:
- Average temperature: 1°C (34°F)
- Average rainy days: 10
- Average daylight hours: 9
- Sunrise time: 8:10 AM
- Sunset time: 5:00 PM
Eguisheim Weather in February:
- Average temperature: 3°C (37°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 10
- Sunrise time: 7:40 AM
- Sunset time: 5:45 PM
Eguisheim Weather in March:
- Average temperature: 7°C (45°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 12
- Sunrise time: 6:50 AM
- Sunset time: 6:30 PM
Eguisheim Weather in April:
- Average temperature: 12°C (54°F)
- Average rainy days: 12
- Average daylight hours: 14
- Sunrise time: 6:40 AM
- Sunset time: 8:15 PM
Eguisheim Weather in May:
- Average temperature: 16°C (61°F)
- Average rainy days: 13
- Average daylight hours: 15
- Sunrise time: 5:50 AM
- Sunset time: 9:00 PM
Eguisheim Weather in June:
- Average temperature: 20°C (68°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 16
- Sunrise time: 5:30 AM
- Sunset time: 9:30 PM
Eguisheim Weather in July:
- Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
- Average rainy days: 10
- Average daylight hours: 16
- Sunrise time: 5:40 AM
- Sunset time: 9:30 PM
Eguisheim Weather in August:
- Average temperature: 22°C (72°F)
- Average rainy days: 10
- Average daylight hours: 15
- Sunrise time: 6:10 AM
- Sunset time: 8:45 PM
Eguisheim Weather in September:
- Average temperature: 18°C (64°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 13
- Sunrise time: 6:50 AM
- Sunset time: 7:45 PM
Eguisheim Weather in October:
- Average temperature: 13°C (55°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 11
- Sunrise time: 7:30 AM
- Sunset time: 6:30 PM
Eguisheim Weather in November:
- Average temperature: 7°C (45°F)
- Average rainy days: 10
- Average daylight hours: 10
- Sunrise time: 7:15 AM
- Sunset time: 5:00 PM
Eguisheim Weather in December:
- Average temperature: 3°C (37°F)
- Average rainy days: 11
- Average daylight hours: 9
- Sunrise time: 8:00 AM
- Sunset time: 4:45 PM
That’s it! I hope this visit to Eguisheim at Christmas has been everything you dreamed it would be!
Interested in other European Christmas markets? Read about the Colmar Christmas Markets here!
Compare tours to Eguisheim Christmas Market on Viator and Get your guide.
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