Alsace Christmas Nights, France 🇫🇷 | Walking Tour of Strasbourg, Colmar & Riquewihr 🎄✨
Hello dear friends and welcome to Alsace, France. In today’s video we explore three of the most beautiful Christmas markets: Strasbourg, Colmar and Riquewihr. Strasbourg is a fascinating city located in northeastern France, near the German border, within the Alsace region. Strasbourg is a city of contrasts, blending medieval charm with modern vibrancy. Its historic center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, surrounded by canals and half-timbered houses. Strasbourg is home to about 280,000 residents and boasts a diverse population. French is the primary language, but German influence remains strong, with Alsatian dialect still spoken among some locals. The city’s inhabitants are known for their warm hospitality and a deep attachment to their Alsatian heritage. Cultural life thrives in Strasbourg, with festivals like the famous Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik) attracting global visitors. Strasbourg is often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas” (Capitale de Noël), and for good reason. During the festive season, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland. The atmosphere is a mix of glowing lights, festive scents, and joyous traditions that date back centuries. Strasbourg, the “Capital of Christmas,” is a city where the magic of the holiday season comes alive like nowhere else. The historic Grand Île transforms into a winter wonderland with illuminated streets, centuries-old buildings adorned with holiday decorations and a collective embrace of the season’s traditions. The Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre-Dame is one of Europe’s most magnificent Gothic landmarks and a centerpiece of the city. Its intricate architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit attraction, especially during Christmas. Construction of the current cathedral began in 1015 and was completed in 1439, making it one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. Initially Romanesque, the design evolved into a Gothic style under successive architects. Until the 19th century, it was the tallest building in the world at 142 meters (466 feet) and remains the sixth tallest church globally. The western façade is a masterpiece of Gothic art, covered with thousands of intricately carved statues and decorative motifs. The Christmas Market at Place de la Cathédrale, located right outside the cathedral, enhances the festive atmosphere. The illuminated façade serves as a stunning backdrop. Around 60 wooden chalets are set up, offering a diverse range of goods and treats. They sell hand-carved wooden figurines, including nativity scenes and Christmas tree ornaments. Other handicrafts include blown glass balloons and delicate lace decorations that showcase the craftsmanship of Alsace. Dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries, the stained glass windows depict scenes from the Bible and medieval life, illustrating the spiritual and cultural values of the time. The market is nestled in the shadow of the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, whose intricate façade and towering spire are illuminated during the festive season. The cathedral’s grandeur creates a breathtaking, almost fairy-tale atmosphere. Its unique setting, rich offerings, and magical ambiance make it a centerpiece of the city’s Christmas festivities. You can find Unique Souvenirs such as: Candleholders shaped like half-timbered houses, typical of Strasbourg’s Petite France district. Embroidered textiles, such as tablecloths and napkins, with Christmas motifs, illuminated globes and others. The market is renowned for its culinary delights, offering visitors a chance to savor traditional Alsatian flavors: Flammekueche: Thin, crispy flatbreads topped with cream, onions, and bacon, cooked fresh at the stalls. Choucroute: Warm sauerkraut served with sausages, a hearty winter dish. Pretzels: Freshly baked, salty, or sweetened. Sweet Treats include Bredele; a variety of small Alsatian Christmas cookies in flavors like almond, cinnamon, and hazelnut. Pain d’Épices: Alsace’s famous spiced gingerbread, sometimes shaped like stars or hearts. Kugelhopf is a bundt-shaped cake with dried fruits and nuts, available in festive versions. Several chalets are dedicated to local charities, offering handcrafted goods where proceeds support various causes. Special lighting enhances the cathedral’s architectural details, often accompanied by light projections that tell biblical or seasonal stories. Strasbourg is an economic powerhouse in the Alsace region, thriving on industries like pharmaceuticals, engineering, and services. The Port of Strasbourg, one of the largest on the Rhine, plays a crucial role in trade. Strasbourg’s canals and bridges are beautifully lit, enhancing the city’s fairytale-like appearance. The Place du Marché-aux-Poissons Christmas Market is a delightful destination in Strasbourg, renowned for its focus on Alsatian cuisine and wine. This market combines gastronomy, scenic beauty, and a welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite for food lovers and those seeking a cozy, authentic experience. It’s situated near the Ill River, close to the historic Rohan Palace, this market offers a unique riverside atmosphere. The market’s proximity to the Ill River offers stunning views, especially at night when the reflections of lights create a magical atmosphere. Grande Île (the historic center) glows with fairy lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Shops, cafés, and homes join in the festivities with elaborate window decorations, often featuring Alsatian folklore themes. A magical pathway connects this area to the Cathedral, lined with sparkling fairy lights and hanging ornaments. Don’t forget to hit the like button on this video. These playful decorations are a highlight, bringing a childlike joy to the historic city center. The decorations are illuminated with soft, twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The decorations are at their most magical in the evening when the buildings are illuminated. The magical decorations transform the historic city into a whimsical winter wonderland, blending tradition with playful, modern touches. The cathedral’s single spire, completed in 1439, is a masterpiece of Gothic engineering. Its openwork design creates a delicate and soaring appearance. It seems that even this rather heavy rain does not scare the tourists, who are quietly walking around the Christmas Capital. The three elaborately sculpted portals represent scenes from the Bible, including the Last Judgment and the Virgin Mary. Vin Chaud is mulled wine made with local Alsace wines, available in traditional red or unique white varieties. You can also try Hot Apple Cider, flavored with cinnamon and cloves for a cozy and festive drink. The central rose window, nearly 15 meters in diameter, is an iconic feature, depicting biblical themes and flooding the interior with colored light. Rue des Orfèvres is in the core of Strasbourg’s pedestrian-friendly old town, making it easily accessible and ideal for a holiday stroll. During Christmas, it transforms into a glowing corridor of lights, colors, and scents, offering an immersive holiday experience. Strings of warm, twinkling lights are hung across the street in intricate patterns, creating a canopy of light that bathes the street in a golden glow. Large, glittering stars, snowflakes, and baubles dangle from buildings, adding a celestial feel to the already magical setting. Many of the boutiques and artisan shops along Rue des Orfèvres go all out with their festive decorations. Windows are adorned with frosted garlands, glowing lanterns, and tiny winter scenes featuring figurines or miniature Christmas villages. Some shops feature plush teddy bears, gilded ribbons, and ornate bows as part of their decor. Gold, silver, and red dominate the color schemes, giving the street a luxurious holiday appearance. Traditional Alsatian Christmas decor heavily incorporates natural elements like fir branches, holly, and mistletoe. These are draped over doorways and windows, sometimes interwoven with fairy lights. We are heading to the Christmas Market in Piata Kleber. Here we will admire the light show on the 30-meter high Christmas tree. Located in Place Kléber, this tree is the centerpiece of the celebrations. Standing over 30 meters tall, it is meticulously decorated with ornaments, lights, and a star-topped crown. The square is named after Jean-Baptiste Kléber, a Strasbourg-born general who served during the French Revolutionary Wars. The square’s buildings and pathways are adorned with lights, garlands, and seasonal ornaments, making it a magical sight. It’s easily accessible and surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, making it a focal point of holiday celebrations. Stalls offer classic dishes like flammekueche (Alsatian flatbread), bretzels (pretzels), and local cheeses. Unique gifts such as handmade wooden toys, ceramics, candles, and ornaments can be found here. Red and white vin chaud is served in collectible mugs, adding warmth to the chilly evenings. The market exudes a joyful and lively ambiance, with music, laughter, and the glow of thousands of twinkling lights. It’s often one of the busiest markets, attracting visitors from all over the world. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday as weekends can be crowded. Best times to visit are early evenings for the lights, but mornings are less crowded for shopping. Wooden figurines, stars, and miniature sleighs are frequently displayed, emphasizing the artisanal charm of the area. Local foods, including bredele (Alsatian Christmas cookies), pain d’épices (spiced gingerbread), and smoked sausages. The market stalls are decorated like traditional chalets, with twinkling lights and festive greenery. Each stall showcases its unique festive style, creating a tapestry of designs. The smell of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and spiced gingerbread fills the air. Strasbourg is home to 13 themed Christmas markets, spread across the city. Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are world-famous and have been celebrated since 1570, making them among the oldest in Europe. Together, these markets transform the city into a magical wonderland, each offering unique charms, themes, and specialties. The markets typically run from the end of November to December 24th, opening daily from morning until late evening. Place Kléber is within walking distance of other Christmas markets, making it an easy stop on a festive tour of Strasbourg. The Christmas tree in Place Kléber is the crown jewel of Strasbourg’s festive decorations. The tree becomes a glowing spectacle at night, drawing large crowds who come to admire its beauty and take photos. The tree embodies the spirit of sharing and community, a central theme of Strasbourg’s Christmas traditions. Next up is the Christmas market in Colmar. Colmar is a fairy-tale town in northeastern France, in the Alsace region. During Christmas, Colmar transforms into a magical wonderland. Every corner of Colmar feels like a painting come to life. The Place des Dominicains is the square outside the church, a lively and central spot in Colmar that blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. Colmar’s Place des Dominicains transforms into a cozy Christmas market filled with artisanal treats, crafts, and sparkling lights. From handcrafted ornaments to mulled wine aromas, Place des Dominicains captures the essence of a French Christmas market. Dating back to medieval times, this square becomes a festive hub each December. Over 30 wooden chalets line the square, offering handcrafted decorations, toys, and local artisan goods. Twinkling lights and festive decorations bring the historic square to life each evening. Warm up with Alsace specialties like vin chaud (mulled wine), gingerbread, and spiced treats. Place des Dominicains transforms into one of Colmar’s most beloved Christmas market locations, during the holiday season. The Église des Dominicains -Dominican Church- is a stunning Gothic church that showcases both architectural beauty and spiritual history. Built in the 13th century, the church’s architecture is a fine example of Gothic style with tall, pointed arches and slender columns. Alsace is believed to be one of the first regions in Europe to decorate Christmas trees, a custom dating back to the 16th century. In Alsace, Christmas isn’t just a holiday, it’s a way of life celebrated with warmth, craftsmanship, and centuries of tradition. Colmar is a treasure trove of architectural styles, blending medieval, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. Its cobblestone streets wind between colorful half-timbered houses. These buildings reflect the rich history, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage of Alsace, making them a defining feature of the town’s landscape. One of the most distinctive aspects of Colmar’s houses is the visible timber framing. The beams create a rhythmic pattern across the façades, adding texture and aesthetic appeal. Collégiale Saint-Martin is a Gothic masterpiece and Colmar’s main church since the 13th century. The Place de la Cathédrale is the charming square surrounding the Collégiale Saint-Martin, located in the heart of Colmar’s old town. This square is a central gathering spot, steeped in history and surrounded by architectural gems that complement the majesty of Saint Martin’s Church. Local artisans sell handmade ornaments, gifts, and festive decorations, perfect for holiday shopping. The placement of buildings around the square enhances the visual prominence of the church. The square has long served as a central meeting point in Colmar, hosting markets, public announcements, and civic events since medieval times. The square was designed to emphasize the grandeur of the church, providing space for gatherings during religious processions and festivals. Lining the square are a number of cafes and restaurants, where visitors can enjoy traditional Alsatian cuisine, while soaking in the view of Saint Martin’s Church and the vibrant street life. The church exemplifies the Rayonnant Gothic style, characterized by intricate stonework, pointed arches, and large stained-glass windows. Its design is both imposing and graceful, combining verticality with intricate decorative elements. The square is framed by traditional Alsatian buildings, many of which feature the iconic half-timbered style and date back to the Renaissance or earlier. The half-timbered houses are transformed into glowing works of art each Christmas night. Many decorations are inspired by 16th–17th century Alsatian customs, blending German and French influences. Built on the site of an earlier Romanesque church, Saint Martin’s Collegiate Church reflects the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architectural styles. Construction of the church began in 1234 and spanned nearly two centuries, with completion around 1365. Alsace is often called the birthplace of many Christmas traditions in Europe. Its customs date back to the Middle Ages, when the region was part of the Holy Roman Empire. The very first written record of a decorated Christmas tree comes from Alsace in 1521. In the town of Sélestat, families hung apples, nuts, and paper roses on evergreen trees, symbols of life and hope during winter. The idea of a Christkindelsmärik, a Christmas market, also began in Alsace, inspired by medieval winter fairs. These markets were places where locals sold food, candles, and crafts in preparation for Christmas Eve. Colmar’s Christmas markets are among the most famous in Europe. Colmar, in the heart of Alsace, keeps these traditions alive through its markets, food, and festive decorations. The half-timbered style, or colombage, appeared in Alsace around the 15th century. Each building tells a story, with colors and wooden beams that reflect centuries of craftsmanship and culture. Builders used oak beams filled with clay, straw, and plaster — practical, sustainable, and beautifully detailed. The town feels like stepping into a Christmas storybook, with cobblestone streets glowing under the warm light of lanterns and seasonal displays. The town hosts several distinct markets, each with its own personality and charm. During the Christmas season, Colmar’s shops transform into magical showcases of holiday cheer and creativity. During Christmas, residents adorn windows and balconies with fir branches, lanterns, and wooden toys. Colmar’s storybook beauty comes from its traditional Alsatian half-timbered houses, a hallmark of the region since the Middle Ages. The contrast of warm lights on old timber gives Colmar its unmistakable fairy-tale glow. This is the famous corner of Rue des Merciers and Grand Rue, one of the most magical views in all of Colmar. Here, centuries-old Alsatian houses frame the main street, glowing with thousands of festive lights. The colorful half-timbered façades date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, perfectly preserved through time. Each window and balcony is decorated by hand, from wooden toys to wreaths and shimmering garlands. This spot captures the true essence of Colmar: a blend of history, craftsmanship, and holiday wonder. It’s one of the most photographed streets in France during Christmas, and for good reason. Welcome to Place de l’Ancienne Douane, one of Colmar’s oldest and most beautiful squares. The nearby canal mirrors the lights and colors, creating one of the most photographed scenes in Colmar. Dozens of wooden chalets surround the square, offering local crafts, ornaments, and Alsatian delicacies. The market offers a wide array of crafts, jewelry, and culinary treats. At its heart stands the Koïfhus, the Old Customs House, built in the 15th century, once the center of trade in medieval Colmar. The Koïfhus reflects Colmar’s prosperity during the Renaissance, where merchants once traded wine, cloth, and silver. You can’t get enough of admiring the architectural beauty of the buildings. Especially during Christmas when they are decorated simply magically. The decorations perfectly match the medieval architecture of Colmar, enhancing its fairy-tale setting. Every winter, Colmar welcomes visitors from all over the world, drawn by its storybook beauty and festive charm. Despite the crowds, the town keeps its cozy feel, each square and market has space to slow down, sip mulled wine, and enjoy the lights. Standing tall above the old town, the Grande Roue de Colmar adds a modern sparkle to the city’s historic Christmas charm. The Ferris wheel offers panoramic views over the entire festive city. Around the wheel, wooden chalets form one of Colmar’s largest Christmas markets, filled with food, gifts, and laughter. As the wheel turns, its lights reflect on the nearby trees and rooftops, blending modern festivity with medieval beauty. Each rotation offers a new view, from the glowing squares to the cathedral spire, Colmar sparkles in every direction. The Marché Couvert in Colmar, also known as the Covered Market, is a vibrant and essential part of the city’s local culture and daily life. Located near the heart of the old town, it serves as a hub for fresh produce, regional specialties, and local crafts, offering a glimpse into the authentic flavors and traditions of Alsace. Welcome to La Petite Venise, Colmar’s most picturesque quarter, where canals wind through rows of half-timbered houses. The name ‘Little Venice’ comes from the waterways that once carried merchants through the heart of the old town. At Christmas, Little Venice becomes pure magic, lights twinkle on the water and façades glow in festive colors. The reflections in the canal create a dreamy mirror of Colmar’s Christmas lights, like a painting come to life. In the Middle Ages, this area was home to fishermen, butchers, and tanners, their houses built right along the Lauch River. The canals were used to transport goods, linking Colmar’s markets to the nearby vineyards and countryside. The pastel-colored houses, flowered balconies, and arched bridges make this one of the most photographed places in Alsace. Walking through Little Venice feels like stepping inside a Christmas fairy tale, calm, romantic, and timeless. The quiet sound of water and the warm glow of lanterns make this the most peaceful corner of Colmar at night. Little Venice is located in the heart of Colmar, stretching along the Quai de la Poissonnerie and the Grand Rue. This area follows the course of the River Lauch, which meanders through the town, creating a network of picturesque canals. The narrow cobblestone streets can get busy, especially on weekends, but the warmth and joy in the air make it part of the experience. La Petite Venise captures the heart of Colmar, where history, beauty, and Christmas spirit meet by the water. Little Venice is renowned for its traditional Alsatian architecture, with colorful half-timbered houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. Little Venice is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants that offer both traditional Alsatian dishes and modern cuisine. Dining al fresco beside the canals while enjoying local specialties such as tarte flambée (Alsatian pizza), pretzels, or wine is a highlight of any visit to the area. Visitors can take boat rides along the canals, enjoying a peaceful view of the charming buildings and lush surroundings from the water. The canals are the defining feature of Little Venice, running parallel to the streets and providing a serene backdrop. The Place des Six Montagnes Noires is one of Colmar’s smaller yet charming Christmas markets. It’s situated in the heart of the picturesque La Petite Venise (Little Venice) district. This market offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a special focus on local crafts and traditional Alsatian heritage. Stalls at this market primarily showcase local crafts, including pottery, woven textiles, carved wooden decorations, and hand-blown glass ornaments. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts and souvenirs that celebrate Alsace’s artistic traditions. Warm vin chaud (mulled wine) and hot chocolate are staples, perfect for warming up as you browse the market. Food stalls offer regional specialties like Bretzels (soft pretzels), Flammekueche (Alsatian-style pizza) and Bredele (traditional Christmas cookies). The area is richly decorated with twinkling lights, garlands, and holiday ornaments, blending seamlessly with the fairy-tale architecture of the surrounding buildings. Tourists are drawn to Colmar and Alsace for the rare combination of fairy-tale aesthetics, historical richness, and cultural uniqueness. The town transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience its festive charm. Colmar’s already picturesque streets become even more captivating, adorned with twinkling lights, glowing garlands, and elaborate decorations. The town’s picturesque beauty feels timeless, making it a magnet for photographers, artists, and anyone seeking a dream-like escape. Colmar is a living museum of Alsace’s past. Tucked away in the heart of Colmar, Place du Marché aux Fruits glows quietly under the Christmas lights. The colorful half-timbered façades frame the square like a living postcard, glowing warmly against the winter night. This corner captures everything people love about Alsace: timber-framed houses, cobblestone streets, and a kaleidoscope of Christmas lights. The colors were once used to mark trades and families, today, they create a vibrant canvas for Colmar’s Christmas glow. Colmar’s medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and canals create a dreamy backdrop for Christmas celebrations. Colmar at Christmas is a feast for the senses, a blend of warmth, tradition, and beauty that leaves visitors enchanted and eager to return. The soft glow of lights and the backdrop of the church create a magical holiday atmosphere. Next up is another wonderful village in Alsace, Riquewihr. Riquewihr is a picturesque village located in the Alsace region of France. It is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant half-timbered houses, and exceptional wines. Riquewihr it’s has been classified among “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). During the holiday season, Riquewihr transforms into a magical wonderland with a traditional market featuring crafts, food, and decorations. From late November to December, Riquewihr comes alive with festive decorations, craft stalls, and traditional Alsatian treats. The medieval village, already picturesque with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, is adorned with twinkling lights, garlands, and traditional decorations. Riquewihr’s architecture is a stunning blend of medieval and Renaissance styles, heavily influenced by its historical ties to Germany and France. Vibrantly painted with flower boxes, these homes date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The colors often signified the homeowner’s trade or status. The most recognizable aspect of Riquewihr’s architecture is its half-timbered houses, a hallmark of Alsace. Many of Riquewihr’s accommodations, such as charming inns and boutique hotels, enhance the festive experience with seasonal décor. Christmas is peak tourist season in Riquewihr, so securing accommodations several months in advance is recommended. Local shops compete to create the most eye-catching holiday windows, featuring miniature villages, toy trains, or nativity scenes. Many include festive Alsatian touches, such as handcrafted ornaments, gingerbread houses, or regional ceramics. Potted plants, holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias add splashes of red and green to every corner. The Sainte-Marguerite Church has been central to Riquewihr since the 16th century, when Alsace was heavily influenced by the Reformation, introduced by Martin Luther. The church’s origins are Gothic, but much of its current design dates to later modifications and renovations. It retains a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements, which were common during its evolution. During the Reformation in the 1500s, the Dukes of Württemberg, who ruled Riquewihr, adopted Lutheranism. As a result, many residents converted to Protestantism, and the church became a Lutheran house of worship. The Monument aux Morts honors the men and women of Riquewihr who died during World War I, World War II, and other military engagements. Alsace was returned to France after Germany’s defeat in World War I, as part of the Treaty of Versailles. Some buildings feature oversized decorations like nutcrackers, Santa Claus figurines, or reindeer mounted above shop signs or doorways. Timber frames are visible on the exterior, forming intricate geometric patterns like diamonds, crosses, or lattices. Riquewihr is an enchanting destination during Christmas time, transforming into a festive wonderland that captures the magic of the holiday season. Windows are often decorated with candles, a symbol of warmth and welcome during the holiday season. Branches from fir or spruce trees, sometimes dusted with artificial snow, are a common motif in decorations. The decorations are carefully curated to blend with the village’s medieval charm, ensuring that they feel authentic and timeless rather than overly commercial. Lights often follow the contours of the medieval architecture, highlighting the village’s half-timbered houses and giving them a glowing, fairy-tale appearance. Every street, alley, and building in Riquewihr is illuminated with strings of golden and colorful lights. Alsace is renowned for its magical markets, with Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr among the most beautiful. Alsace’s history of shifting borders has given it a unique identity as a bridge between French and German cultures. Its strategic location made it a site of frequent conflict, but it has also fostered a resilient spirit among its people. Many houses feature hand-painted wooden cutouts of stars, Christmas trees, or winter animals like deer and owls. The village often incorporates whimsical or vintage Christmas themes, like large teddy bears, wrapped presents, or wooden sleds placed in shop displays. The tradition of decorating houses with bears in Riquewihr is a whimsical and charming custom rooted in local lore, Alsatian symbolism, and festive creativity. The bear has historically been a symbol of strength, protection, and resilience, often appearing in Alsatian folklore and heraldry. In Alsace, the bear also symbolizes warmth and care, making it a fitting icon during the Christmas season, when family and community are celebrated. These decorations appeal to children and adults alike, creating a sense of magic and nostalgia. Visit early in the day to explore the Christmas market with fewer crowds, or come in the evening to enjoy the magical ambiance of the lights. During Christmas, courtyards are often open to visitors and decorated with nativity scenes, fairy lights, or small market stalls. The combination of traditional French Noël style and German Weihnachtsfest traditions makes Riquewihr’s Christmas decorations truly unique. Most locals are fluent in French and German, and many speak Alsatian, a regional dialect. Local shops, cafes, and homes are decorated with handcrafted ornaments and glowing lanterns, enhancing the festive mood. The decorations are carefully curated to blend with the village’s medieval charm, ensuring that they feel authentic and timeless rather than overly commercial. The combination of historic architecture and seasonal décor creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Evergreen garlands with red ribbons, pinecones, and baubles are draped over doorways, window sills, and balconies. Every street, alley, and building in Riquewihr is illuminated with strings of golden and colorful lights. Lanterns glowing with soft, flickering lights line the cobblestone streets. Walk through the illuminated streets as the village glows under festive lights. Find unique, artisanal items like wooden toys, ceramics, jewelry, and Alsatian Christmas ornaments. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and spiced cookies fills the air. Desserts like Kugelhopf and Bredele cookies are holiday favorites. The main streets are lined with light installations that may include stars, angels, or snowflakes hanging between buildings. Lights often follow the contours of the medieval architecture, highlighting the village’s half-timbered houses and giving them a glowing, fairy-tale appearance. The Town Hall reflects the 18th-century neoclassical style, blending seamlessly with the surrounding half-timbered medieval buildings, while introducing a more formal and symmetrical design typical of government structures. After the markets close, the streets remain lit, offering a peaceful and almost mystical experience of the decorations without the crowds. The Cristmas Market is set in the heart of the village, winding through its historic streets. The Christmas market stalls themselves are part of the decor. The centerpiece of the decorations is a grand Christmas tree, placed at the entrance to the Christmas market. Many stalls include handcrafted signs or figures, like angels or snowmen, giving the market a storybook charm. I want to thank you for staying until the end of the video. Don’t forget to press the like and subscribe buttons. 😊🙏 Your support means the world to us, it inspires and fuels our passion to create even more beautiful journeys for you to enjoy. Every like, comment, and share means so much to us. See you in the next video.👋😊
Step into a fairytale this Christmas as we explore the enchanting towns of Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr — the heart of France’s Alsace region! 🌟
In this cozy night walking tour, wander through twinkling Christmas markets, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses beautifully decorated for the holidays. From Strasbourg’s world-famous Christkindelsmärik to Colmar’s glowing canals and the medieval charm of Riquewihr, experience the magic of Christmas in every corner.
🎥 What you’ll see:
✨ Strasbourg’s illuminated cathedral and festive market stalls
✨ Colmar’s fairytale streets and reflections in the Little Venice canals
✨ Riquewihr’s timeless charm under the soft glow of Christmas lights
✨ Warm holiday ambiance, carols, and the scent of mulled wine in the air
Whether you’re planning a trip to Alsace or simply want to enjoy the magic from home, this nighttime tour will transport you straight into a European Christmas dream.
📍 Locations: Strasbourg | Colmar | Riquewihr
🎄 Season: Christmas | December
🚶♀️ Type: Night Walking Tour | 4K Relaxing Walk
💬 Tell us in the comments — which Alsace town would you love to visit at Christmas?
If you love Christmas markets, European winter travel, and magical small towns, this video is for you!
👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more travel adventures! 🌍✈
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL4LliKge-Ri_-17BU4gipw
❗Important – enable subtitles in your native language in settings – “CC”
📺 For the best viewing experience, watch on a smart TV or larger screen instead of your phone.
🔻𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀🔻
0:00 Intro
2:36 Strasbourg
47:43 Colmar
1:45:10 Riquewihr
Here are some more videos you might enjoy:
#Alsace #Strasbourg #Colmar #Riquewihr #ChristmasMarket #France #WalkingTour #TravelVideo #ChristmasInEurope #4KWalk #holidayvibes #MagicalMoments #ChristmasVibes #ExploreItaly #WinterEscape #TravelGoals #Wanderlust #ChristmasSpirit #TownOfLights #christmasmagic
©️ Copyrights owner: WalkingTrails&TravelVibes