Riquewihr, one of Alsace’s most charming villages, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Known for its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, this little town comes alive with festive decorations, twinkling lights, and the smell of mulled wine. If you’re looking for a place that feels like stepping into a Christmas postcard, Riquewihr is it. In this post, we’ll cover the best things to see in Riquewihr, Alsace in Christmas, from the stunning holiday decorations to the charming shops and local treats that make it a must-visit destination during the festive season.
Watch this ⬇️ Top Places to enjoy Christmas in Europe!
Top attractions and Christmas markets
Here’s a list of Christmas markets in Riquewihr that will be open between the 29th of November and the 22nd of December 2024.
Riquewihr Christmas Market
This market spans multiple locations within the village, with a major portion set up along the charming streets of Riquewihr, including the main market area near the Place de la Sinne. The market is spread across the old town, with wooden chalets offering local crafts, festive foods, and seasonal treats.
The Christmas Market in the Town Square
This market is specifically located in the Place du Château in the heart of Riquewihr, directly in the town’s main square. It offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with artisan stalls, mulled wine, and holiday food.
Christmas Market at the Wurtemberg Castle
The Wurtemberg Christmas Market is held at the Wurtemberg Castle in Riquewihr. This market offers a unique, scenic backdrop, with its stalls set up around the historic castle, providing a picturesque view of the village below. The market is known for its handmade gifts, artisanal crafts, and festive entertainment.
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Best Christmas Market Food in Riquewihr
Here’s a list of popular Christmas market foods you’ll find in Riquewihr, which are also beloved in the region:
- Mulled Wine (Vin Chaud): This classic warm drink is popular throughout Alsace, often made with red or white wine spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus—ideal for warming up as you explore.
- Bretzel (Alsatian Pretzel): A staple in Alsatian markets, Bretzels are soft, salted pretzels, sometimes available in sweet varieties.
- Flammekueche (Tarte Flambée): An Alsatian specialty resembling a thin pizza, traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons (bacon), baked until crispy.
- Bredle: A beloved holiday treat, these small Alsatian biscuits come in various flavors, like butter and anise, and make perfect holiday gifts or snacks.
- Crepes: Both sweet and savoury varieties are available, with toppings like Nutella, ham, and cheese.
- Roasted Chestnuts: A holiday classic, these warm chestnuts are commonly found across the markets.
Tourist Attractions in Riquewihr
Riquewihr is a beautiful medieval village in Alsace, known for its stunning architecture and picturesque streets. Here are some of the top things to see:
The Old Town
Wander through Riquewihr’s picturesque cobblestone streets, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and charming boutiques. The village’s medieval architecture, vibrant façades, and flower-filled windows offer a truly immersive experience that transports you back in time.
Dolder Tower
The Dolder Tower in Riquewihr is a well-preserved 13th-century gate tower that once served as part of the town’s defensive walls. It stands at the entrance of the village, offering spectacular panoramic views of the village, surrounding vineyards, and the Alsace countryside. Visitors can climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the medieval architecture of Riquewihr and the rolling hills that surround it.
Musee du Dolder
The Musée du Dolder is located inside the historic Dolder Tower in Riquewihr. This small museum offers a fascinating look at the town’s rich history, focusing on its medieval past and the local heritage of the Alsace region. Visitors can explore exhibits about the town’s defensive structures, local traditions, and historical artifacts, all housed within the tower’s ancient stone walls. It’s a great way to step back in time and learn about the town’s role during the Middle Ages. The museum also provides insight into the significance of the Dolder Tower itself in Riquewihr’s history as a watchtower and defensive gate.
Wurtemburg Castle
The Wurtemberg Castle in Riquewihr is a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the Alsace region. It dates back to the 13th century and sits atop a hill, providing a stunning vantage point over the village and surrounding vineyards. The castle is an iconic part of Riquewihr’s history and a must-see for visitors.
The Wine Cellars
Riquewihr is part of the Alsace Wine Route, so be sure to visit local wine cellars to sample the region’s famous wines.
Christmas Lights in Riquewihr
The Riquewihr Christmas Lights 2024 will illuminate the village from November 30th through December 22nd, adding to the festive magic of the season. Here are the best spots in town to experience the holiday lights in all their sparkling glory.
The Main Square (Place du Marché)
This area is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, with a giant Christmas tree and charming light displays around the square.
Rue du Général de Gaulle
The main street in Riquewihr, lined with half-timbered houses, is often decorated with twinkling lights, creating a magical winter wonderland atmosphere.
The Old Town Streets
Wander through the narrow streets and alleyways where you’ll find smaller light displays that add to the village’s fairy-tale feel.
The Christmas Market
While the market itself is the highlight, the surrounding buildings and stalls are adorned with holiday lights, adding to the festive charm of the area.
Day Trips from Riquewihr
Riquewihr to Strasbourg
We highly recommend a visit to Strasbourg, known as the ‘Capital of Christmas,’ located approximately 70 km (43 miles) from Riquewihr. It boasts some of the most beautiful Christmas decorations in the region. To find out more, read: Top things to do in Strasbourg at Christmas 2024.
The Christmas Shuttle
Additionally, there is the Christmas Shuttle that operates between the towns of Colmar, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé on weekends during the Christmas season, providing a convenient way to explore the region.
Riquewihr to Colmar
Colmar is only 14 kilometers (9 miles) from Riquewihr and has some of the most beautiful Christmas decorations in the region. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to visit the Colmar chocolate factory, where you can indulge in delicious chocolate treats and learn about the chocolate-making process. We highly recommend going to the Exhanting Christmas Experience in Colmar to explore the magic of Christmas in typical Alsatian villages during Christmas. You can also taste local wines and Christmas foods. To find out more read: Top things to do at Christmas in Colmar, Alsace.
Riquewihr to Egusheim
Riquewihr to Eguisheim is 16 km (10 miles) by car. We highly recommend visiting this enchanting village, as it truly feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Read more about it here: Top things to do in Egusheim France at Christmas.
Riquewihr to Kaysersberg
Kaysersberg is a charming village in Alsace is 11 km (7 miles) from Riquewihr. This picturesque destination is renowned for its stunning half-timbered houses, all beautifully adorned for the Christmas season. We’re certain you’ll fall in love with its festive atmosphere, just as we did.
Top European Destinations to Visit at Christmas
Looking to make this Christmas unforgettable? Europe has some of the most magical places to celebrate the season! From charming Christmas markets to historic towns filled with festive lights, here are the top spots to visit. Explore my blog posts on each destination below for more tips and ideas.
- The Best Places in Europe to Experience the Magic of Christmas
- Basel at Christmas, Switzerland
- Best Things to See in Riquewihr, Alsace, at Christmas
- Top Things to Do in Madrid, Spain, at Christmas
- Weekend Getaways from Madrid at Christmas
- Top Things to Do at Christmas in Colmar, Alsace
- Top Things to Do in Strasbourg at Christmas
- Top Things to Do at Christmas Time in Paris, France
- Freiburg im Breisgau Germany at Christmas time
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