Europe

Is COLMAR Worth Visiting At Christmas? Honest Travel Guide

Alsace is a beautiful wine-producing region in eastern France, situated on the bank of Rhine River, at the footstep of Vosges Mountain. If you are dreaming of a fairytale Christmas market, Christmas in Colmar, France might be exactly what you are looking for.

Bordered with Germany and Switzerland, it has alternated between German and French control over the centuries. And you will see it right when you will explore the towns like Strasbourg, Colmar, Eguisheim characterized by a blend of German and French cultures.

Colmar is situated on the Alsatian wine route. It is renowned for its pastel-coloured half-timbered houses, cobblestoned streets, numerous architectural landmarks and a very magical Christmas holiday destination.

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    Why should you visit Colmar Christmas Market?

    So here is the thing. Colmar is beautiful all year round. But in December it becomes magical. The small old town is decked up with thousands of glowy fairy lights, giant Christmas trees, little Christmas charms and lots of cute teddy bears.

    Honestly, I’ve been to a lot of Christmas markets in Europe, but Colmar is the most whimsical, cozy, romantic Christmas town I’ve ever visited. If you are travelling as a couple, you are going to love this. If you are in photography, this town is a must visit. And if you just love Christmas, this is your place.

    Colmar Christmas market: what you should know

    Now before you book your tickets, let’s talk about the must-knows about this place.

      • How to get to Colmar?

                   Colmar is very small town with no airports but very well connected from Paris, Strasbourg, Switzerland (Basel, Zurich) and nearby European cities by frequent trains and buses for budget friendly option.

      • Should you rent a car?

                   Now here’s the thing. If you are only visiting colmar you don’t need a car. But if you are planning to explore nearby Alsace villages like Eguisheim or Riquewihr, renting a car makes it easier. You can take a taxi also, but it is very difficult to find one.

    When we visited colmar, we wanted to go to Eguisheim. So, we talked in our hotel reception. From there we booked a taxi for a round trip, and it was not cheap at all though I think it was worthy.

      • How many days you should stay?

                    Colmar is pretty small and very much walkable. You can explore the entire old town in one day without rushing. But if you want to visit nearby Alsace villages and Strasbourg too, then 2-3 days make more sense.

    Colmar Christmas markets: locations

    There are six different small Christmas markets, each with a different theme.

        1. Place des Dominicains
        2. Place de l’Ancienne Douane
        3. Place Jeanne d’Arc
        4. Petite Venice
        5. Koifhus Indoor market
        6. Children’s Christmas Market

    Things to do in Colmar at Christmas

      • Explore Little Venice

             Little Venice (La Petite Venise) is the most photographed area of Colmar. The colorful houses with festive decorations reflect beautifully in the canal water.

      • Try Traditional Alsace Food

              The food stalls are definitively a highlight of the Christmas market experience. Must try  

          • Mulled wine (Vin Chaud)
          • Gingerbread cookies
          • Hot chocolate
          • Raclette
          • Tarte flambée
          • Pretzels
      • Enjoy a Stroll in The Old Town

    Honestly you don’t need an itinerary to explore the old town. Every corner, every street looks like a postcard.

      • Trip to Eguisheim

    Eguisheim is a true hidden gem worth exploring. It is just 15 minutes’ drive away by car from Colmar. It’s circular streets, pastel half-timbered houses, cozy wine cellars look straight out of a postcard. If you love peaceful village vibes, you will fall in love with this village instantly.

    Our tips for your visit

    Specially for those who are planning trips from India here are some tips for you.

        • Wear comfortable shoes. December is very cold in this region. You must bring warm pair of shoes and not to mention warm jacket also.
        • Bring cash. Like most other Christmas markets in Europe cards are not widely accepted here.
        • Don’t forget the deposit money for wine glass. If you buy hot wine in Christmas markets, you have to pay 1-3 euro extra for the plastic glass. When you return the glass then you get your deposit money back.

    Final thoughts on Christmas in Colmar, France

    It is our favourite Christmas town so far. This is the most magical, charming, picturesque town for you if you are planning a trip around Christmas.
    We hope you had a good time reading this little travel story. Keep your travel spirit high and heart open for new adventures. Bon Voyage, always.