Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg

The Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg offers a festive journey through the region’s most enchanting holiday destinations. Priced at $154.76 per person and lasting around 7 hours, this tour provides a well-rounded experience of the Alsace region’s Christmas charm. It departs from Central Place in Strasbourg at 9:00 am, with a small group limited to 8 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate atmosphere.

This tour is ideal for those who want to explore beyond Strasbourg’s main Christmas market and enjoy picturesque villages, medieval towns, and regional specialties. The experience includes comfortable transportation in a late-model minivan, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and visits to several villages, each with its own unique holiday spirit. While most visitors praise the guide’s storytelling and the scenic countryside, keep in mind that the itinerary can vary depending on the date, and some stops may feel rushed if you prefer longer exploration.

Key Points

• Price: $154.76 per person, around 7 hours long.
• Small-group experience: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.
• Stops: Includes Colmar, Kaysersberg, Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, and possibly Eguisheim or Riquewihr.
• Transport: Travel in a comfortable, fully-equipped minivan.
• Highlights: Medieval towns, bustling Christmas markets, festive Christmas lights, and regional scenery.
• Guide: Knowledgeable, engaging guides such as Thierry, Magalie, or Jerome, who share stories and local insights.

Visiting Strasbourg’s Central Meeting Point

The tour begins at 17 Pl. de la Cathédrale in Strasbourg, just outside the Grande-Ile district. The 9:00 am start time allows for a full day of exploration, with the tour returning around 4:00 pm. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it easy to access, and the small group size means you’ll receive individual attention from the guide.

The mobile ticket system streamlines the process, and no hotel pickup is included, so travelers should plan to meet at the designated spot. Children under 4 years old are not allowed, and pets are also not permitted on the tour.

From Strasbourg to the Picturesque Town of Colmar

The first destination is Colmar, a town famous for its fairy-tale-like setting with medieval buildings and brightly painted houses lining the Lauch River. The drive takes approximately 50 minutes, offering scenic views of the Alsace countryside en route.

Once in Colmar, a guided walking tour takes you through the town’s Old Town, where twinkling Christmas lights and festive decorations turn the streets into a winter wonderland. The town hosts five Christmas markets, which you are free to explore at your own pace after the walk. The markets offer a variety of stalls, local crafts, and holiday treats, making this stop a highlight for many.

The Charm of Kaysersberg and Riquewihr

Depending on the date of your visit, the afternoon may include stops at Kaysersberg or Riquewihr. Both towns are celebrated for their medieval architecture and authentic Christmas markets. Kaysersberg is noted for its spectacular market, with visitors often praising the great scenery and the warm, festive atmosphere. Riquewihr offers a medieval setting with narrow streets filled with traditional stalls and local crafts.

Some stops may include Bergheim, known for its charming Christmas Cribs or Eguisheim, which hosts markets daily. These villages provide a different pace from Colmar’s larger markets and are praised for their storybook charm and quaint streets.

Exploring the Alsace Wine Route and Regional Villages

After visiting the towns, the tour continues along the Alsace Wine Route, winding through frosty vineyards and scenic landscapes. This scenic drive adds to the regional experience, allowing travelers to appreciate the picturesque countryside at winter’s peak.

In some cases, stops are made at Eguisheim or Bergheim for additional Christmas markets or special local attractions like medieval markets or Christmas cribs. These villages are praised for their authentic charm and beautiful settings, making for memorable holiday images.

The Guide’s Role in Making the Experience Special

The tour’s success largely hinges on the guides’ storytelling and local insights. Guests frequently mention Magalie, Thierry, and Jerome as engaging, knowledgeable guides who share stories and history about the Alsace region. They help enhance the experience with personalized tips on where to browse, what local treats to try, and how to best enjoy each village.

While some reviews note that voice clarity can be an issue during the drive, most agree that the guides’ friendly demeanor and enthusiasm make up for it. The guides’ local expertise is especially appreciated when recommending regional wines, hot drinks, and local delicacies.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Comfort

Transport takes place in a late-model minivan equipped for a comfortable ride through the countryside. The small group of 8 ensures a personalized experience, avoiding the crowds common in larger tours. The tour operates in English, with a minimum of 2 participants required for it to run.

The meeting point is conveniently located in Strasbourg, and the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers should plan to meet at the designated location, and children under 4 are not permitted.

The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the day, though some walking is involved at each stop.

The Overall Experience and Value

This full-day tour balances guided sightseeing with ample free time to explore each Christmas market. The cost of $154.76 offers good value considering the transport, guide, and multiple stops. Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, as well as the stunning scenery and festive atmosphere of the villages.

However, some reviews highlight that time management can be tight—visitors seeking long, leisurely explorations might find the schedule a bit rushed, especially at larger markets like Colmar. Still, the diverse stops and regional scenery make this tour appealing for anyone interested in Alsace’s holiday traditions and medieval charm.

Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: Who Will Love It?

The tour suits travelers eager to see multiple towns in one day without the hassle of driving. It’s perfect for holiday enthusiasts, history lovers, and those wanting a taste of regional culture. The small-group setting provides a more intimate experience, ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

While the price includes transport and guide services, meals, drinks, and entrance fees are not included, giving visitors flexibility to choose their own treats and souvenirs. Those looking for a relaxed, guided holiday experience that balances sightseeing with free time will appreciate this tour’s structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this Alsace Christmas Markets tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with pickup at 9:00 am and return around 4:00 pm.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Travelers meet at 17 Pl. de la Cathédrale in Strasbourg.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted. Child seats are available upon request.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Colmar’s Old Town and Christmas markets, and depending on the date, Eguisheim, Bergheim, Riquewihr, or Kaysersberg.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in a late-model, comfortable minivan with space for up to 8 travelers.

How flexible is the schedule at each village?
Guests have free time to browse the markets after guided walks, but the overall schedule is fixed to fit multiple stops in one day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour operate in other languages?
No, it operates in English, unless otherwise specified.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price.

What makes this tour different from exploring on my own?
The guided experience, organized stops, and regional insights provided by the knowledgeable guides make this tour a hassle-free way to enjoy Alsace’s Christmas charm.

This Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg presents a practical, well-organized way to enjoy the region’s festive villages without the stress of self-driving. With its small-group size, expert guides, and scenic stops, it offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing and leisure, ideal for holiday visitors seeking a cozy, festive experience.