Foreword:
Colmar lies in the Alsace region in the northeastern part of France and looks just like fairy-tale land. Its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and picturesque canals make it delightful throughout the year. However, December turns Colmar into a glittering winter wonderland—a scene from some Christmas movie. Twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the sweet scent of mulled wine beckon guests here to visit one of Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets. If you love Christmas markets, Colmar is a place you definitely must not miss.
Getting to Colmar: Convenient Travel from Major Cities
Getting to Colmar is surprisingly easy, whichever way you wish to approach from wherever in the globe or from the nearby region or city.
Image Courtesy: James Thone
By Train:
From Paris:
If you’re coming from Paris, you can take a TGV train from Gare de l’Est, which takes about 2.5 hours to reach Colmar. You can just sit back, sip some coffee, and watch the countryside whiz by—perfect way to ease into your Christmas foray, if I say so.
From Strasbourg:
From Strasbourg, which is only about half an hour away, Colmar is a perfect day trip or a weekend getaway. Strasbourg itself is another major spot for Christmas markets, so why not put both together and make your holiday experience finally worthwhile?
From Lyon:
Take the TGV from Lyon in a lovely three-hour scenic train ride to Colmar, crossing regions rich in history and natural beauty, and as you get closer to Alsace, you will notice the distinct architecture and landscape of the region.
From Basel, Switzerland:
It’s only a 45-minute train ride from Basel, Switzerland, which makes the trip a quick and easy cross-border jaunt.
From Zurich, Switzerland:
If you are traveling from Zurich, in about 2 hours and 20 minutes, you will be in Colmar, traveling along scenic routes abounding in rolling hills and coming at last into the very heart of Alsace.
By Air:
- International airports in France are remote from Colmar; hence, flying into EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is the best alternative. It is about 60 kilometers away from Colmar and takes about 45 minutes to reach by car. Many airlines fly to this airport, and there are several international carriers. Thereafter, either hire a car or take the bus, followed by a quick train ride to reach the city.
- The other option is to land at Strasbourg Airport which is about 70 kilometers away from Colmar.
Exploring Colmar’s Enchanting Old Town:
As you arrive in Colmar, it is time to plunge into the magic of the old town. Strolling along the narrow streets evokes a fairy-tale setting. The town’s half-timbered houses are dressed up with garlands of Christmas cheer, while the windows abuzz with twinkling lights beam their glow unto each other and onto the vibrant shops below. Much more of the alluring city remains to be poked into besides?
- Little Venice (La Petite Venise):
If any single area captures the essence of Colmar, it’s Little Venice, or “La Petite Venise,” a gorgeous part of town defined by its narrow canals, bordered with colorful half-timbered houses that look like they were borrowed from a fairy tale. Picture walking along the canals as snow blankets the ground, radiant christmas lights dancing across the surface of the water. Magic! Get your camera ready, because every nook and cranny of Little Venice looks ripped from the pages of a postcard.
- St. Martin’s Church:
This gothic jewel resting in the heart of Colmar dominates the skyline of the town. There can hardly be a more important example of Gothic architecture in the region than St. Martin’s Church, which dates back to the 13th century. There, in Christmas, market stalls are to be found in construction that offer ornaments, artisan crafts, and hot mulled wine. Make sure you can take in the full charm and wash of lights around the church come evening- the experience is pure magic!
- The Unterlinden Museum:
A great way to relieve from the festive frenzy would be with a visit to the Unterlinden Museum. Located in an old Dominican convent, this museum is renowned for its extensive collection of medieval and Renaissance art, most notably the world-famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Regardless of whether you fancy yourself quite the art critic or you are more on the curious side, a visit to this museum is really a great way to spend the afternoon.
Christmas Markets: A Festive Wonderland
So here’s the fun bit: the five Christmas markets of Colmar! Each market has its very own character and cheekily displays a wide variety of delicacies and homemade gifts throughout the old town. Remember to pace yourself so that you’ll be able to check out all of them!
- Place des Dominicains:
Set near the Dominican Church, with its amazing stained-glass windows forming a marvelous backdrop for all the stalls, the market has a mildly festive, tranquil atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the Christmas vibe while shopping for artisanal gifts: jewelry, wooden toys, and holiday ornaments.
- Place Jeanne d’Arc:
If you’re looking to dive right into the heart of Alsace’s culinary traditions, make your way to the market at Place Jeanne d’Arc. Here you’ll be able to sample local delicacies such as foie gras, kougelhopf (an Alsatian sweet bread), and bredele (traditional Christmas cookies). It’s also the ideal place for your edible gifts to take home: your friends will certainly appreciate such sweet gestures!
- Place de l’Ancienne Douane:
Set around the historic Koïfhus building, one of the most lively and wide-reaching in Colmar, the Koïfhus, a former customs house, adds further historical tone to the setting. The market is packed with Christmas decorations, handmade presents, and edibles from savory crêpes to sweets, gazed upon by all. When the sun sets, the square lights up totally with an air of enchantment-get there on that occasion!
- Children’s Market in Petite Venise:
Traveling with kids? Kids certainly must enjoy the Children’s Market at Petite Venise! With its mini carousel, storytelling sessions, and lots of sweet treats for the little ones, this market is a bonanza for families. The festive cheer is contagious, and you’ll find plenty of children-specific booths selling toys, sweets, and fun activities to keep them entertained.
- Gourmet Market in Place de la Cathédrale:
The foodie in you will surely want to create more time to indulge in this market-from freshly baked pastries to desserts of scrumptious cheeses and meats. Enjoy a cup of rich hot chocolate, or attack the table and enjoy some fresh oysters and local wines. After all, it’s Christmas!
Must-Try Foods: Taste the Magic of Alsace
One of the best parts of any Christmas market is the food, and Colmar certainly delivers. Alsace is famous for its blend of French and German influences, and the festive season brings out some of the best regional specialties. Here’s what you absolutely must try:
- Choucroute Garnie:
This dish features a staple of Alsatian cuisine: sauerkraut served with a variety of meats, including sausages, ham, and pork. It is hearty, flavorful, and very suitable for a cold winter’s evening.
- Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche):
This pizza-like crispy dish is topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons (bacon). A local favorite, it pairs really well with a glass of Alsatian white wine.
- Baeckeoffe:
A traditional casserole, this dish usually consists of marinated meats (often lamb, pork, and beef), potatoes, and white wine, slow-cooked together in a warming winter dish.
4. Bredele:
You haven’t experienced Christmas in Colmar until you’ve tasted bredele. These addictive, small spiced Christmas cookies come in a variety of flavors such as cinnamon, almond, and anise, but be warned: Often best described as going down all too easily one after the other. Do not be surprised when you find yourself lugging a hefty box or two in your bags on the way home!
5. Vin Chaud (Mulled Wine):
There is nothing like a cup of vin chaud to warm you up; this spiced mulled wine is sold at almost every Christmas market, practically always in festive mugs you can remember as souvenirs. Whether you like a red version or a white one (after all, Alsace is famous for its whites), it is a pleasure to sip as you wander along the lighted streets.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit:
In order to get the best out of the Christmas magic of Colmar, there is some advance planning:
- Choose the Right Time:
Colmar’s Christmas markets run from late November through December. If you want a quieter experience, you might consider visiting during the week or a little earlier in the season. Weekends and the days leading to Christmas are usually very crowded, yet the energy of the crowds is fun if you are okay with some hustle and bustle.
- Stay in the Old Town:
Staying in or around Colmar’s old town lets you explore markets at your own pace, especially at night when the streets are partially light and charming. There are scores of quaint boutique hotels and guesthouses that will augment the holiday feel for you.
- Dress for the Weather:
Alsace can be quite cold in December, and it usually goes under 0 degrees Celsius. Dress warmly: it’s a good idea to think of hats, mittens, and scarves to be able to enjoy outdoor markets comfortably.
- Bring Cash:
You will find that several stalls will take Expanding Beyond Credit, yet a few smaller vendors like cash transactions. It would be wise to have some euros on you for those impulsive purchases-because, let’s face it, the temptation will be so very real!
- Explore Beyond the Markets:
Old town Colmar is a draw unto itself, and there is a lot more to be seen apart from the markets; take the time to walk its precincts, admire the architecture, and perhaps even pop into a cozy coffee shop.
Best Time to Visit: When the Magic Happens
Christmas markets generally start from late November and run until a few days before New Year in Colmar. The time to visit really depends on one’s taste; go in early December and avoid crowds, while closer to Christmas is when the festive mood really sets in. The picturesque charm that Colmar takes on at Christmas is absolutely unbeatable.
Final Thoughts: A Christmas Dream Come True
Colmar is not just a destination, but an experience too! From the charming markets to its dollhouse-like old town, this Alsatian gem encapsulates all that is truly Christmas. Whether sipping mulled wine under the twinkling lights or ravishing local delicacies while taking in sights, Colmar is that holiday escape that stays with you for life! So, for the holly jolly Christmas market lovers out there–pack your bags, bring your nuggets of cheer, and get ready to step into an unrivaled Christmas wonderland!
