Shopping Guide in Alsace

Practical travel guide for Alsace, France

Shopping Guide in Alsace

Shopping in Alsace

What to Buy

Wine: Alsatian wines make exceptional souvenirs. Look for Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Crémant d'Alsace, and late-harvest Vendanges Tardives. Buy directly from producers in wine villages for best prices and authentic experiences. Many domaines ship internationally.

Ceramics & Pottery: Traditional hand-painted Alsatian pottery features distinctive folk art designs in blue, red, and yellow. Soufflenheim and Betschdorf are renowned pottery villages.

Gingerbread (Pain d'Épices): Traditional spiced gingerbread from Gertwiller, the gingerbread capital. Mireille Oster and other artisans create decorative and edible versions.

Textiles: Beauville table linens feature traditional Alsatian patterns. Kelsch fabric with its distinctive red and white checks appears in kitchen towels and tablecloths.

Choucroute: Vacuum-packed sauerkraut from local producers makes authentic culinary souvenir.

Kougelhopf Molds: Traditional ceramic molds for the iconic Alsatian cake, often decorated with regional motifs.

Christmas Decorations: Hand-blown glass ornaments, wooden figurines, and traditional decorations available year-round but especially during Christmas market season.

Where to Shop

Village Shops: Wine route villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim host boutiques selling regional products, souvenirs, and crafts. Quality varies - seek authentic local producers over tourist trinkets.

Markets: Weekly markets in Strasbourg (Wednesday and Saturday), Colmar (Thursday and Saturday), and other towns offer fresh produce, cheese, and regional specialties. Christmas markets (November-December) showcase crafts, decorations, and foods.

Wine Cellars: Direct purchases from winemakers offer best value and authentic experience. Most domaines welcome visitors for tastings and sales without appointments, though calling ahead is courteous.

Shopping Tips

  • French shops typically close Sunday and often Monday
  • Lunch closures (12:00-14:00) are common in smaller towns
  • Credit cards widely accepted, though small vendors may prefer cash
  • Bargaining is not customary in Alsace - prices are generally fixed
  • Ask about international shipping for wines and fragile items
  • Keep receipts for tax-free shopping (VAT refund available for non-EU residents spending over €100)

More about Alsace

Landmarks & Monuments Museums & Galleries Religious Sites Neighborhoods & Districts Parks & Gardens Tours & Activities Day Trips & Excursions Best Time to Visit Getting Around Tourist Passes Festivals & Events Day Itineraries Best Photo Spots Food Guide Electricity & Plugs