Do you need to get out of Munich just before Christmas, but don’t want to miss out on the Advent season? At no other time of the year are trips to the picturesque surroundings of Munich as worthwhile as now. The Christmas markets in Bavaria are some of the most beautiful in Germany. If you’ve already visited all the markets in the immediate vicinity, we can recommend a visit to the Kaysersberg Christmas market. This idyllic town on the Alsace Wine Route is considered one of the most authentic and charming markets in the region. It is known for its medieval atmosphere, high-quality handicrafts and intimate size.
However, the Kaysersberg Christmas market does not take place continuously, but is traditionally limited to the four Advent weekends. From Friday to Sunday, the market is open from 10 am to 8 pm. Due to the limited opening hours, Saturday afternoons in particular can get very crowded. It takes around 5 hours by car from Munich.
A touch of the Middle Ages at Christmas time
If you travel to Kaysersberg, you will find the reason for its designation as an authentic Christmas market as soon as you arrive. This is because the market takes place against the historic backdrop of the medieval town fortifications and charming half-timbered houses. Kaysersberg takes you straight back in time! In contrast to the large markets in Colmar or Strasbourg, the Kaysersberg market is smaller and therefore particularly contemplative and atmospheric.
The alleyways and the courtyard in front of the Sainte-Croix church are festively decorated. The lighting is particularly traditional and warm, which emphasizes the medieval flair of the place. It is even known as the “marché de Noël artisanal” (French for “arts and crafts Christmas market”). The reason is obvious: there are few other Christmas markets where you can find such a wide selection of quality and local products.
Celebrate with tradition and good food
You will only find handicrafts from the region in the wooden huts. These include ceramics, wood carvings, hand-blown glassware, handmade nativity scenes and traditional Christmas decorations. If you want to know what is typically Alsatian, you’ve come to the right place!
You should also try the traditional specialties of the region. These include tarte flambée, of course, but also the famous Alsatian Christmas cookies(Bredele) and Alsatian mulled wine(Vin Chaud), which is often made from local wine. Wine tastings from local winegrowers are also common at the Kaysersberg Christmas market.