How to Spend a Picture-Perfect Christmas in Alsace, France
There are few more idyllic areas than Alsace, a northeastern region of France located just three hours by train outside of Paris. Situated on the west bank of the upper Rhine River near Germany and Switzerland, this stunning historic region reflects both French and German cultures in its capital city, Strasbourg, and smaller neighboring towns. It is famous for its Christmas markets, castles, incredible gastronomy, white wines and charming architecture and streets. Luckily, Maison Benjamin’s founder knows the area intimately. Here are his top recommendations whether you’re visiting before or during the holidays.
Credit: Bartosch Salmanski
Alsace’s Christmas Markets
“December in Alsace is quite magical with its markets, decorations, and atmosphere,” says Maison Benjamin founder Benjamin Vaschetti. “I can’t think of any other charismatic Christmas markets such as the ones here. They keep it very traditional compared to other commercial markets around the world.”
Strasbourg is the unofficial capital of Christmas—a magical fairytale-like city with plenty of holiday spirit. It is France’s oldest Christmas market—Christkindelsmärik—with more than 300 wooden chalets decorated throughout different squares in the city. Thousands of Christmas lights and decorations sparkle by night to create a magical Christmas atmosphere.
Credit: Bartosch Salmanski
There are so many Christmas markets to choose from that you simply won’t get bored. One of the most picturesque is located in the beautiful village of Riquewihr, nestled among vineyards and ancient sites. Like something out of a snow globe, the village’s half-timbered facades are decked out in lights and Christmas decorations. Grab bread, pretzels, or traditional hot chestnuts to enjoy as you walk through the festive winding alleys.
Credit: Bartosch Salmanski
Colmar is another market that can’t be missed. There are six Christmas markets here alone, filled with merry stalls, wooden chalets, glistening storefronts and illuminated streets filled with decorations. The Marché Gourmand is the perfect place to enjoy fine gastronomy. Lastly, Kaysersberg is home to a Christmas treasure hunt, lights exhibition and old Advent traditions. It is situated in a 17th-century setting that makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Where to Stay
The charming five-star Hôtel des Berges in Illhaeusern is a quaint property with just a handful of rooms, a two-starred-Michelin restaurant, a lovely spa, and relaxing garden areas. Both elegant and intimate, it’s the perfect foundation to a week spent exploring Alsace.
Even if you aren’t staying at the hotel, you can’t miss a night of perfect French gastronomy. Book a coveted dinner reservation at the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, The Auberge de L’Ill. It dates back to 1952 and serves beautiful French cuisine presented like works of art.
“This is a temple of French gastronomy and worth the detour,” says Benjamin, who spent a few years working in the renowned kitchen.
Benjamin recommends a trip to Trimbach winery in the heart of Alsace. This family house has been producing wines since 1626 for 13 generations. He highly recommends Trimbach’s Gewürztraminer and Riesling varieties, his all-time favorite white wines. There is a range of various terroirs, which makes each wine unique and delicious.
Want to spend December or Christmas in Alsace, France?