Ultimate Guide to Celebrating in Colmar at Christmas
Last Updated on September 27, 2025 by spritzience
Why Colmar is the Ultimate Christmas Destination
There’s something unforgettable about Colmar at Christmas—the way the half-timbered houses glow under strands of lights, the scent of mulled wine mingling with gingerbread, and the buzz of markets tucked into every square of the old town. It’s a scene that feels both timeless and distinctly Alsatian, making Colmar one of the most magical places in Europe to experience the season.
I’ve visited Colmar twice, and it continues to be one of my favorite Christmas market destinations. After traveling to more than 40 markets across Europe, I can say the ones in Alsace strike a perfect balance: festive without being overwhelming, intimate yet full of variety. Colmar stands out for its atmosphere—you don’t just stroll through stalls, you feel woven into the rhythm of the season itself.
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Plus there are a number of pedestrianized zones and even on the streets, the car traffic is pretty mellow so you can take in the sights at a leisurely pace without too much traffic to distract you from enjoying your Christmas market adventures.
The central location of Colmar also means its makes for a great base for exploring other towns and villages in Alsace. Come along with Spritzience as we share our favorite spots in Colmar.
Colmar at Christmas: A Shopper’s Paradise
Gourmet Market
If you have a taste for delectable treats, this is your haven for lunch, dinner or a snack in between. You can order a plate of one of the many Alsacian local specialities. We at Spritzience went for one with local cheeses that practically melted in out mouths.
Expect 9 different stalls of food delights, and some plain wooden tables / and bar top tables to enjoy your food at. This market is generally open from 11am to 10 pm from Nov. 26th to Jan 5th. As times are subject to change, it’s a great idea to check in with the tourist office to double-check for the latest updates.
Your culinary dessert adventure continues with traditional French pastries. You might want to try a “Kougelhopf,” a sweet bread baked with raisins and almonds – (they look a bit like mini bundt cakes). And don’t even get me started on “Bredele,” those adorable little cookies that come in all shapes and sizes during the festive season.
You can buy them by the piece or bag…I made the mistake of buying a few pieces…and forgetting what market I bought them at. Well I walked an extra 30 minutes around looking for the stand to buy a few bags to bring home with me as gifts once I realized how delicious they are. They’re not just treats; they’re tiny bites of tradition, with crazy cute icing.
Handcraft Christmas Market at Kuifhus
Creativity takes center stage at this market, where you’ll find unique handmade gifts that are perfect for impressing everyone on your list (or just treating yourself—no judgment!). From intricate ornaments to cozy scarves lovingly crafted by local artisans, it’s hard not to get swept away by all the charm. This market is generally open from 11am to 7pm, and on Sundays from 10 to 8 pm, starting on Nov. 26th through Dec. 23rd.
Christmas Market in La Petite Venise
it sounds romantic because it is! Set against picturesque canals and fairy-tale-like backdrops, it’s like shopping in a postcard. Grab a warm drink (I recommend a vin chaud) as you browse through stalls brimming with festive decorations and one-of-a-kind treasures.
Colmar At Christmas -December Cultural Experiences
And let’s not overlook the adorable sight of children caroling on boats as they glide along the canals. You might even catch a glimpse of Santa waving from one of those boats—who knew he had such great taste in travel? This year the caroling is scheduled for Dec. 18th, 2024 from 5 to 6pm in La Petite Venise.
Cultural events during the holidays are abundant here, so whether you’re sipping mulled wine at a market or watching artisans craft traditional decorations, there’s something for everyone. And speaking of family-friendly activities in Alsace, there are workshops where kids can create their own ornaments or perhaps even bake some delicious holiday treats! To check the full schedule from the tourism office click here.
Best Spot for A Spritz
The absolute best place to stop for a spritz break or a glass of vin chaud (mulled wine) is the carousel bar in Place Rapp. The magical carousel slowly spins round and round, so you can enjoy the views of the park and people watch, while enjoying your cocktail.
Where to Stay in Colmar
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Colmar, you’ve got some delightful options that cater to every taste and budget. There are a couple considerations when picking your hotel. Maybe you want to be close to the train station to use Colmar as a base and take day trips to other towns.
Both the train and the bus to other local Christmas markets leaves from the train station. Or if you want to walk about 15 minutes into town, you’ll find picturesque hotels and be right in the middle of the storybook town.
In Town
Hotel Marechal, is nestled right in the heart of Colmar, this charming hotel offers a cozy vibe with stunning views of the canals. Imagine waking up to picturesque scenes that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a postcard! Plus, their breakfast spread is so good you might just want to move in permanently.
Another good option is the Ibis Styles Colmar Center. This hotel has quirky decor that’s sure to put a smile on your face. It’s also conveniently located near all the major attractions—perfect for those who want to explore without breaking too much of a sweat.
Now, if you’re after something with great design, look no further than Hotel Le Colombier. This gem combines traditional charm with modern comforts and is just steps away from all those adorable half-timbered houses we love so much.
Near The Train Station
For those who fancy a touch of luxury, the Grand Hotel Bristol is where you’ll want to hang your hat. With elegant rooms and top-notch service, it’s an experience worthy of royalty (or at least someone who appreciates fine living!).
For a B&B experience try Castelnau, which offers an inviting atmosphere that feels like home away from home. The owner creates a wonderful breakfast, expertly plated.
So whether you’re seeking luxury or local charm, Colmar has got you covered! Just remember: wherever you choose to lay your head at night will only enhance the magic of this beautiful town!
Colmar at Christmas-Great Restaurants to Try
This picturesque town is dotted with delightful eateries that offer a taste of Alsace’s culinary delights. So, let’s dive into some great restaurants where you can indulge your appetite!
La Krautenau
This cozy spot just glows during the Christmas market, beckoning you in. The ambiance is warm and inviting—perfect for enjoying traditional Alsatian dishes like tarte flambée. A fun fact: the restaurant is named after an old term “cabbage field,”a hint to its roots in hearty regional fare. You might even feel like you’ve stepped into someone’s home!
Now, if you’re in the mood for something a little more picturesque, head over to La Petite Venise Weinstub. Nestled by the canals, this restaurant not only serves up delicious food but also offers stunning views. Their wine selection pairs perfectly with their menu—think local wines that complement your dish beautifully! Insider tip: try to snag a table outside during sunset; it’s pure magic.
Caveau Saint Jean
This cozy little gem is like stepping into a warm hug. With its rustic decor and friendly atmosphere, it feels like dining at a friend’s house—if that friend happened to be an amazing chef! Their traditional Alsatian dishes are simply divine, with everything from meat dishes to tarte flambée.
Next on our culinary journey is La Stub. Now, this place has charm oozing from every corner! The ambiance is so inviting that you might just want to settle in and never leave. This is the place for tarte flambee.
Then there’s Restaurant Le Petite Alsace, which offers a delightful mix of classic and contemporary dishes. The chef here knows how to put a twist on traditional recipes without losing their soul (and flavor!). It’s the kind of place where you can indulge guilt-free because you’re experiencing authentic local cuisine.
Last but certainly not least is Chez Hansi—a true homage to the spirit of Alsace! The décor alone will transport you back in time with its whimsical touches inspired by Hansi’s illustrations. Here, you’ll find all your favorite regional specialties served up with love and flair.
So whether you’re looking to savor Alsatian flavors or enjoy a meal with a view, Colmar has got you covered! Bon appétit!
Christmas Markets in Alsace
Consider using Colmar as your base to explore other Christmas markets in the Alsace Region. There is an hourly train to Strasbourg, it takes about 30 minutes from station to station. For more information on the amazing decorations in Strasbourg and visiting that Christmas market click on our post here.
During December through the 22nd, there is a great Christmas market bus system to reach smaller villages. It leaves from Colmar (in front of the train station) and on weekdays goes to Eguisheim. From Friday to Sunday, there is an additional route that also stops at Kayserberg, Ribeauville, Riquewihr.
First up is Ribeauville. Hop on the Christmas bus and let yourself be whisked away to this town where medieval charm meets holiday cheer. You’ll find everything from artisanal cheeses to beautiful ornaments that scream “I’m unique!”. Perfect items for those last-minute gifts or just treating yourself because why not?
Next stop: Riquewihr! This enchanting village looks like it popped right out of a fairy tale. With its colorful half-timbered houses decked out in holiday finery, you’ll want to snap photos at every turn (and trust me, your friends will be envious). Don’t forget to indulge in some local treats—gingerbread cookies are practically mandatory here!
And we can’t forget Eguisheim! This little slice of paradise is known for its circular layout and stunning vineyards. The Christmas market here is cozy yet vibrant; you might even hear carolers singing as you stroll along. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and lose yourself among the stalls—it’s like stepping into a winter wonderland!
Make It a Christmas Market Road Trip
One of the best parts about visiting Colmar at Christmas is how easy it is to turn your trip into a festive road (or rail) adventure. Thanks to Alsace’s compact size and great train connections, you can hop between some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets in just a few days.
- 🎄 Strasbourg Christmas Market — Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg dazzles with its massive Great Christmas Tree, historic squares filled with stalls, and a magical atmosphere just 30 minutes from Colmar by train.
- 🕯️ Besançon Christmas Market — Set against a UNESCO-listed citadel, this market is smaller but full of character, with artisanal gifts, Jura wine, and a cozy riverside setting that pairs perfectly with a winter day trip.
- ✨ Lyon Christmas Market and Festival of Lights — Lyon combines festive market squares with one of the world’s most dazzling winter light shows. If you time your visit right in early December, you’ll experience a city transformed into a glowing masterpiece.
- 🌟 Gengenbach Germany Christmas Market — Just across the Rhine, Gengenbach charms visitors with half-timbered houses and the world’s largest Advent calendar, projected onto its town hall each night.
With Colmar as your base, you can easily craft a Christmas market itinerary that blends French flair, Alsatian coziness, and even a touch of Germany’s festive traditions. It’s the kind of holiday trip that keeps you coming back year after year
Getting to Colmar
Getting to Colmar at Christmas is like embarking on a charming little adventure, and there are a few delightful ways to make your way there! First up, let’s talk about the train.
If you’re coming from Paris it’s just under 2 and half hours on the TGV high speed train, or from Lyon 3 hours and 15 minutes. On the train, it’s like watching a live postcard unfold right outside your window! Just imagine sipping on your coffee while gliding past vineyards and quaint villages—talk about setting the mood!
If you’re coming from the U.S. a few airports to consider are Basel (About an hour and 20 minutes away by train), Paris CDG (about 2.5 hours away by train) or Stuttgart (about 2 hours 45 minutes away by train).
And for those who relish the freedom of the open road, renting a car can be an exhilarating way to reach Colmar. You can take scenic routes through Alsace’s picturesque landscapes and stop at charming little towns along the way—think of it as your own personal treasure hunt! Just remember to keep that camera handy; every twist and turn could lead you to an Instagram-worthy spot.
