Travel and Tinsel contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
I’ll never forget my first visit to Colmar at Christmas. It felt like stepping straight into a storybook. With its half-timbered houses, canals, and cobblestone streets, it’s easy to see why this Alsatian gem is said to have inspired Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Nestled in France’s Alsace region and just under an hour from Strasbourg, Colmar is both easy to reach and even easier to fall in love with, especially during the festive season.
When I visited the Colmar Christmas Markets in 2024, I couldn’t stop taking photos of the swans gliding through the canals and the fairy-tale buildings glowing under the Christmas lights. It was pure holiday magic around every corner.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your visit, including dates, market locations, what to wear, eat, and pack home as souvenirs. Whether you’re heading straight to Colmar or adding it to your Alsace holiday itinerary, here’s how to experience a fairytale Noël.
Christmas in Colmar
Colmar’s Christmas market season begins in late November and runs daily through December 24th. I visited in early December and found it easy to get around entirely by walking.
Colmar’s Old Town is largely pedestrian, with colorful half-timbered houses lining its streets and canals. Once part of a major medieval trading route, it still reflects its historic roots amid the festive decor at Christmas.
The Old Town is home to six themed markets. There are holiday lights, decorated facades, and classic Alsatian architecture everywhere you turn. The compact size of Colmar makes it easy to see a lot in one day, but the atmosphere invites you to slow down and enjoy every detail.
8 Things to Do In Colmar At Christmas
Colmar may be small, but it packs in a lot during the holidays. With six markets spread across the Old Town, there’s something to discover around every corner. Here are some of the best ways to experience the Christmas season in Colmar.
1. Explore All Six Christmas Markets
Each Christmas market in Colmar has its own unique style and setting. You’ll find artisan gifts, ornaments, Alsatian treats, and warm drinks at every stop.
The markets are close together, and walking between them lets you experience Colmar’s festively decorated streets. Let’s explore each market with this walking route!
🎄 Best Walking Route for the 6 Colmar Christmas Markets
🕓 Total time: 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace (more if you linger)
📍 Distance: 1.2 miles
1. Place Jeanne d’Arc – The Alsatian Market
Start your walk at this market known for regional food and wine. Its decorations recreate a traditional Alsatian village, surrounded by a mix of half-timbered and classic French architecture.
👉 Tip: Try a glass of local Gewürztraminer or Munster cheese tart.
➡️ 5-minute walk to..
2. Place des Dominicains – The Church Market
Set against the backdrop of a Gothic 14th-century church, this market has about 60 stalls and is one of the most photographed spots in town. The stained glass windows of the church are illuminated inside and out at night.
👉 Tip: The church itself is worth a peek inside. It houses the famous “Madonna of the Rose Bush” painting.
➡️ 5-minute walk to…
3. Place de l’Ancienne Douane – The Main Market
This is Colmar’s heart. Around 50 chalets circle the Schwendi Fountain, and you can glimpse the covered market across the river. The market extends right up to the porch of the Koïfhus (Old Customs) building.
👉 Tip: Climb the nearby Koïfhus stairs for a great view over the stalls.
➡️ Right next door to…
4. Koïfhus – The Indoor Artisan Market
Inside the 15th-century Koïfhus (Old Customs) house, local artisans sell jewelry, woodcrafts, ceramics, and glass art, so you can shop traditional Alsatian goods inside a warm and cozy building.
👉 Tip: Great for authentic souvenirs directly from Alsatian makers.
➡️ 3-minute walk south to…
5. Place de la Cathédrale – The Gourmet Market
Set beside the Collégiale Saint-Martin, this one’s for foodies. Each chalet is run by a local chef serving Alsatian specialties like oysters, foie gras, and pastries under a large heated tent.
👉 Tip: Stand at the tall tables to enjoy your plate with mulled wine. It’s the perfect spot to take a break on a chilly or rainy day.
➡️ 5-minute walk to…
6. Petite Venise – The Children’s Market
End your route in Colmar’s most photogenic quarter. The Children’s Market is a small market designed with children in mind, with a nativity scene, animals, and activities. Ride the merry-go-round, send a letter to Father Christmas, or take a pony ride.
👉 Tip: Walk along the canal bridges for postcard-perfect views, especially after dark.
🗺️ Suggested Route Summary
Jeanne d’Arc → Dominicains → Ancienne Douane → Koïfhus → Cathédrale → Petite Venise
Look for signs posted throughout the Old Town for an updated Colmar Christmas Market map once you’re there or see the map I’ve created below.
➡️Tip: Click on the map and save to your phone or Google account before your trip so you can access it offline while exploring Colmar’s Christmas Markets.
2. Take Photos in Little Venice
Little Venice is one of Colmar’s most photographed spots, with colorful half-timbered houses and canals that wind through them like something out of a fairy tale. Add twinkling lights, garlands, and the occasional swan, and it becomes pure Christmas magic.
I couldn’t stop taking pictures, wanting to capture the memory. Every corner looked like a postcard.
3. Taste Mulled Wine and Alsatian Treats
One of the best parts of visiting any Christmas market is the food, and Colmar does not disappoint. Start with a cup of vin chaud, the classic mulled wine, often made with local Alsatian white wine. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, there’s rich hot chocolate and warm apple juice at nearly every market.
Alsace is known for its regional specialties, so bring your appetite. Try flammekueche (a thin, crispy flatbread with cream, onions, and bacon), Bredele cookies, pain d’épices (Gingerbread ), and roasted chestnuts.
4. Shop Handcrafted Gifts
Colmar’s markets are full of locally made gifts like ornaments, wooden toys, textiles, candles, and soaps. Look for pieces that capture the spirit of Alsace, such as stork motifs, heart-shaped designs, and decorations inspired by Colmar’s colorful houses. Each item showcases local craftsmanship and makes a meaningful souvenir or gift to bring home.
💡 Insider Tip: Some markets mix in imported or mass-produced goods. You will see less of those in Colmar thanks to the city’s careful vendor selection. Most stalls feature genuine local artisans and handmade products.
5. Admire Holiday Lights and Façades
Colmar takes its holiday decorating seriously. Nearly every street and façade is adorned in lights, wreaths, and garlands. Colmar was one of the first towns in France to create a coordinated lighting system that changes with the seasons.
I loved wandering the streets, admiring buildings dressed in ornaments, teddy bears, nutcrackers, and festive window displays that looked straight out of a storybook
It’s worth seeing the canals of Little Venice after dark, when the lights reflect off the water. The nighttime atmosphere makes this one of the most magical parts of visiting Colmar at Christmas
6. Family Fun: Rides for Kids, Bar Carousel for Adults
Colmar makes Christmas magical for kids too. The Children’s Christmas Market in Petite Venise is designed just for little ones, with small rides, a wooden merry-go-round, and a giant mailbox where they can send letters to Father Christmas.
In Place Rapp, you’ll find the 1900 Carousel, a vintage ride that looks straight out of a classic French postcard. This square often hosts festive pop-up activities for the whole family. Many years it’s an ice rink, but in 2023 it featured a giant sled run instead.
Grown-ups: Don’t miss the bar carousel to warm up with a drink while the kids play.
7. Take a Canal Boat Ride
If you want a different perspective of Colmar, hop on a flat-bottomed boat and cruise through the canals of Little Venice. These rides offer a peaceful way to admire the holiday lights and historic buildings from the water.
Tours last around 25 minutes and depart from Pont Saint-Pierre, next to the Caveau Saint-Pierre restaurant. While boats run year-round, they are weather dependent, so check ahead if you’re planning to ride during your visit in December.
Seats can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is a good idea, especially during Christmas market weekends.
8. Attend A Musical or Christmas Event During Advent
Colmar hosts several concerts and events throughout Advent, including children’s choirs, choral music, carol singing, and wine and treat tastings.
A few highlights include:
- ‘Children Sing Christmas on the Boats’ is an evening event where children’s choirs perform on the canals from festively decorated boats.
- Sing Christmas carols together in several languages (French, German and English) at St. Matthew’s Church every Sunday from 2:30pm-4.
- St Nicholas’ Day Concert at Ecole Primaire St. Jean.
- The Choristers – 20 Years On with the Maîtrise Saint Marc, a showcase of choral music at St. Joseph’s Church.
- Wine and Christmas Treat Pairings at Domaine Viticole.
- Registration is required at https://www.alecoledesvins.fr
What to Wear While You Are There
The best tip is to dress in warm layers. A good coat, gloves, and a cozy scarf make a big difference, especially since you will be outside at the markets for long stretches. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and I swear by merino wool socks to keep my feet warm.
Temperatures typically hover in the low 30s to low 40s Fahrenheit, and daylight is short. I actually love the early evenings because it means even more time to enjoy the Christmas lights.
Snow can happen, but so can mist and chilly rain, so bring a bit of wet weather gear like a waterproof jacket or an umbrella.
Locals dress in practical but stylish winter layers such as warm coats, boots, and soft knits. If you follow their lead, you will stay comfortable and fit right in.
Tips for Visiting the Colmar Christmas Market
Look for the mug deposit: When you order mulled wine or hot chocolate, you’ll pay a small deposit for the cup. You can return it at any stall for a refund or keep it as a souvenir. I like to collect the market mugs!
Carry cash: Many stalls accept credit cards, but some still prefer cash, especially smaller artisans or food vendors. It’s best to have some euros on hand just in case.
When to visit: Colmar’s markets are busiest at night and on weekends. Visiting during the week or earlier in the season helps avoid crowds. I like shopping during the day when it’s quieter, then returning at night to enjoy the lights and atmosphere.
Entry fees: All Christmas markets in Colmar are free to enter. You’ll only pay for food, drinks, purchases, and activities.
Public bathrooms: There are public restrooms near the main markets, including near Place Jeanne d’Arc and the Covered Market area. Additional facilities are often added during the Christmas season.
Where to Stay in Colmar for Christmas
Here are a few solid options that balance comfort, convenience, and location. I’ve included three by budget, plus an apartment-style choice for added flexibility.
Budget ($) – Ibis Styles Colmar Centre This hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms in a former brewery and sits right in the heart of Colmar’s historic center. With free WiFi, an on-site bar, and easy walking access to several markets, it is a practical and highly rated option. Breakfast is included, and it works especially well for families.
Mid-range ($$) – James Boutique Hôtel Colmar Centre This spot combines great style with an unbeatable location. It is a modern boutique hotel known for excellent comfort and its easy walk to the Old Town. A strong choice for families.
Luxury ($$$) – L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar – MGallery Collection This five-star hotel truly stands out with its spa, elegant decor, and exceptional service. It is an excellent choice if you want to treat yourself during your stay.
Apartment Style – COLMARAPPART Grand’Rue This property features modern, self-catering apartments with full kitchens, including a dishwasher. Its prime location between the Cathedral and Colmar’s main shopping streets makes it perfect for exploring the Old Town and Christmas markets on foot.
💡 Tips for Choosing Where to Stay
- Location matters: Staying in or near the Old Town lets you walk to most markets, and all of the options above offer that convenience.
- Check the amenities that matter most to you. Parking, breakfast, a spa, airport transfers, or family rooms can all make a big difference in your stay.
- Book early: December is a busy time in Colmar, and the best hotels fill quickly.
How to Get to Colmar
Colmar is easy to reach by train, car, or guided tour, making it a perfect stop on any Alsace itinerary.
🚆 By Train: The station is about a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. Direct trains run from Strasbourg (~30 min), Basel (45 min), and Paris (around 2 hr 20 min via Strasbourg).
🚗 By Car: Take the A35 motorway. Parking is available near the train station or at Parking Lacarre and Parking Montagne Verte.
Christmas Day Trips from Colmar
More most charming Christmas markets in Alsace are just a short trip away. Each town has their own appeal with Christmas markets, half-timbered houses, handmade gifts, and local treats.
Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas, is probably the most popular and about 30 minutes away by train or under an hour by car.
Don’t miss some of the smaller towns nearby including Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Ribeauvillé. All within 30 minutes by car or bus; only Ribeauvillé has a train station.
Best Route: Colmar → Eguisheim → Kaysersberg → Riquewihr → Ribeauvillé → back to Colmar
🕓 Total distance: about 55 km (34 miles)
🕒 Total driving time: roughly 1.5–2 hours (without stops)
🚌 By Tour: This tour option is a hassle-free way to visit those smaller towns in Alsace during the Christmas season.
🚌 Christmas Shuttle (Navette de Noël): Colmar also offers a Christmas shuttle that runs from Colmar station to Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, Turckheim, Munster and Neuf-Brisach.
- One ticket will get you unlimited rides all day. There are 5 routes; one runs every day to Eguisheim, all routes run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Tickets are available online beginning mid-November. Buy early, the Christmas Shuttle is a popular option!
🎟️ Travel Tip: We used the Alsa+ Pass to visit Colmar from Strasbourg.
FAQs
Is Colmar worth visiting for Christmas?
Yes. Colmar’s size, walkability, and fairy-tale setting make it one of the most charming Christmas markets in Europe. It is festive without feeling overwhelming and beautifully decorated from end to end.
How many days do I need in Colmar?
One full day is enough to see all six markets, especially since everything is within walking distance. If you want to explore nearby towns, take your time with meals, or fit in a canal ride or museum visit, two nights is ideal.
Can I visit Colmar and Strasbourg in one trip?
Absolutely. The train ride between Colmar and Strasbourg takes under an hour. If you are planning a Christmas market itinerary in Alsace, these two cities pair perfectly.
What is the most Christmassy place in France?
Strasbourg is often called the Capital of Christmas, and after visiting in 2024, I can truly say it lives up to the name. That said, Colmar is a strong contender. Its storybook setting, canals, and walkable layout make it feel magical in many ways.
Final Thoughts
Colmar at Christmas truly feels like a real-life fairytale. It’s hard not to be completely charmed by this small Alsatian town with its half-timbered houses, the twinkling lights, and the six walkable markets.
My time in Colmar was warm, welcoming, and surprisingly easy to navigate. I took too many photos in Petite Venise, sipped vin chaud with Bredele cookies, and shopped for handmade gifts across Colmar’s six Christmas markets.
If you’re planning a holiday trip to Alsace, Colmar should absolutely be on your list. And if you’re debating between Strasbourg or Colmar, the best answer might be both.
I hope you found this Colmar Christmas Market Guide helpful for planning your trip. Drop me an email if you have any questions. TravelandTinsel@gmail.com I love to hear from readers.
Related Colmar Posts
