Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my work.
See my full policy.
It was absolutely pouring when we arrived in Eguisheim. And it wasn’t a nice, festive rain.
We had already spent the morning at the Colmar Christmas Market, but I’ve been impatient about Eguisheim. I read about it being a movie inspiration, it had to be good, right?
So let’s just say that the rain was not contributing to that Christmas vibe.
But we started walking the village eitherwat. And somehow… even under grey skies and pouring rain, Eguisheim still looked like it came right out of a Chrstmas book.
It felt a lot more intimate than Colmar or Strasbourg, as it’s small. It’s also a bit more quieter (still). I loved that about it.
So if you’re still deliberating if this should be on your list, my answer is definetely yes! Especially if you’re already visiting Colmar, as it’s just next to it.
In this guide I’ll tell you how the Eguisheim Christmas Market fells like, where we ate, how long you should count for it, and help you decide when to go.
I’m Ersilia – architect and travel lover based in France
I help English-speaking travelers plan meaningful trips across Europe, mixing iconic sights with hidden gems and authentic local experiences, all based on places I’ve personally explored.
In summer, it would make a great stop on the Alsace Wine Route.
In winter, it makes a great detour on the Germany to France Christmas Market roadtrip (as it sits near the German border, making it an easy stop for anyone exploring the picturesque Alsatian countryside).
IN SHORT
The essiest way to come here is with your own car.Use DiscoverCars to compare prices. (We always use one of these websites for our trips).
If you’re coming by car, you’re in luck and you’ll need some strategy. Most of the town’s streets are narrow, and parking can be tricky during high season.
Best parking tip: Head straight to Parking de la Mairie. It’s paid, but accessible and very close to the main entrance of the Christmas Market. We chose it specifically because of the weather, and I’m so glad we did — we were under shelter and sipping vin chaud in under 5 minutes.
Side note: Other lots exist, but they’re smaller and fill up quickly. This one’s central, reliable, and walkable.
How to get to Eguisheim by train?
The closest train station is at 4km away from the old town, in Herrlisheim-près-Colmar.
Walking from there would take about 50 minutes, I don’t recommend that in winter!
There is a bus line connecting the train station to Eguisheim, it’s called L30 and takes about 35 minutes. You can find the exact timetable on the official website.
What Makes Eguisheim’s Market Special
You only need about 2 hours to explore the full market and village.
But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in pure fairytale energy!
Every corner is wrapped in garlands. Every window shutter is decked out with tiny figurines. It makes you want to hum Christmas carols, even if you’re not usually that person (I am ! ).
Unlike Colmar, where you sometimes feel like a sardine shuffling through the crowds, Eguisheim felt… peaceful. Families strolled. Locals chatted. It felt like Christmas should feel — no rush, no noise, just mulled wine, old stone buildings, and cozy vibes.
For me, this is the real french Christmas experience. Much more than Paris and even better than Strasbourg !
What to Eat and Drink
Well, just like in the other Christmas markets, here there are plenty of chalets offering “to-go” snacks, perfect for wandering:
Hot pretzels (always a win, especially in Alsace)
Tartes flambées (inspired from the german ones)
Sausages sizzling on grills
Gingerbread in every shape imaginable
We didn’t sit down at a restaurant — honestly, we didn’t need to. Everything we wanted was at arm’s reach.
But if you’re staying longer or want to warm up inside, check out Le Pavillon Gourmand.
It’s a local favorite for Alsatian dishes served in a warm, rustic space.
La Cours Gourmande has to be on your list, as a favourite chocolatier and biscuit shop. Perfect place to buy gifts!
Evening vs. Daytime: When’s Best to Visit?
We visited during the day, and despite the rain, it was absolutely worth it. The advantage for doing this is that you get to really see the details — the architecture, the decorations, the bright colors of the houses.
Eguisheim has always been postcard-pretty, but it got a little extra spotlight after fans noticed its resemblance to the village in Attack on Titan (a popular manga and anime).
That said, evening lights would definitely add another layer of sparkle!
Should you use it as a base? Where to sleep?
If you want to stay in the region, I’d definetly choose Eguisheim instead of Colmar.
Just because it’s smaller, cosier, and at night it is way easier to find a place to sit for dinner (although you should definetly book ahead).
Wear layers and bring waterproof shoes (especially if rain is in the forecast)
Colmar is gorgeous but intense during the holidays. Eguisheim gave us the breathing room we didn’t know we needed.
So is Eguisheim Worth It?
Absolutely.
Especially if you’re already exploring Alsace and want something that feels quieter, more authentic, and still full of that festive charm.
If you’re traveling by car, it’s an easy add-on!
And if you’re the kind of traveler who loves noticing the little things — the hand-painted ornaments, the warm smiles, the way the town feels like it’s giving you a hug — Eguisheim is the right choice.
