Christmas Market Tour from Colmar

Discover the magic of Alsace’s Christmas season on this small-group guided tour from Colmar. Priced at $156.99 per person, this 9-hour experience offers a well-rounded look at the region’s charming villages and festive markets, all with hotel pickup, drop-off, and transfers included. With a balance of sightseeing, culture, and wine tasting, this tour is ideal for those seeking a family-friendly outing that combines holiday cheer with local flavor. While the tour may vary slightly depending on market opening dates, the carefully curated stops and enthusiastic guides make it a memorable way to celebrate the season.

Though the tour is praised for its excellent guides and beautiful villages, guests should be aware of potential crowds and the need for warm clothing during winter months. The experience delivers a delightful mix of holiday scenery, local traditions, and regional wines, making it a strong choice for visitors eager to explore Alsace’s Christmas spirit.

Key Points

• Guided tour from Colmar including hotel pickup and transfer
• Visits to four picturesque Christmas markets in Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Ribeauvillé
• Wine tasting and cellar visit included in the itinerary
• Tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 10:00am
• Small-group size (maximum 7 travelers) enhances personal attention
• Optional lunch stop, but lunch costs are not included

Starting Point and Duration of the Christmas Market Tour

This Christmas Market Tour from Colmar begins at 76A Grand Rue in Colmar, with hotel pickup included near the city. The tour kicks off at 10:00am and typically lasts about 9 hours, making it a full day of holiday discovery. The small-group format—capped at 7 travelers—ensures a more intimate experience, with the driver/guide providing local insights throughout the day.

The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, offering convenience for onward travel or evening plans in Colmar. The duration balances ample time at each location with relaxing travel, allowing for a leisurely exploration of each village and market.

Visiting Eguisheim: A Christmas Village Charm

The first stop on the tour is Eguisheim, a village famous for its historical charm and Christmas decorations. During the day, visitors have about one hour to explore this medieval village known for its narrow cobblestone streets and festive lighting.

The village is especially enchanting in the evening, when illuminations create a warm holiday atmosphere. The Christmas Market in Eguisheim is free to enter and offers a glimpse of traditional Alsatian holiday decor. Here, visitors can stroll at their own pace and enjoy the quaint architecture and festive spirit.

Riquewihr: A Fairy-tale Christmas Market

Next, the tour takes you to Riquewihr, a small town with a famous Christmas Market during the day lasting about two hours. Known for medieval buildings and narrow streets, Riquewihr transforms into a holiday wonderland with festive lights and decorations.

This market features local items and crafts, perfect for holiday shopping or just soaking in the storybook atmosphere. The setting is ideal for photos, with colorful facades and intricate decorations creating a postcard-perfect scene.

Kaysersberg at Night: A Festive Wonderland

In the evening, the tour visits Kaysersberg, notable for its night-time Christmas Market lasting around two hours. This village is praised for its stunning illumination and warm holiday ambiance.

Guests enjoy browsing local stalls and decorations that showcase Alsace’s Christmas traditions. Walking through Kaysersberg at night offers a magical experience, with the old town lit up and alive with holiday music and joyful crowds.

Ribeauvillé and the Wine Cellar Experience

The itinerary includes a visit to a wine cellar in Ribeauvillé, with a wine tasting session lasting about an hour. This stop provides an opportunity to sample regional Alsatian wines, known for their quality and variety.

The wine cave visit enriches the experience by combining cultural heritage with regional flavors. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for its informative guides and relaxing atmosphere, allowing guests to deepen their appreciation for Alsace’s wine-making traditions.

The Charm of Alsace’s Villages and Christmas Decorations

Throughout the tour, visitors witness distinctive Christmas decorations unique to each village. From Eguisheim’s traditional lights to Riquewihr’s classic market stalls and Kaysersberg’s illuminated streets, each location offers a festive and picturesque setting.

The lighting displays are designed to highlight the towns’ heritage and create a cozy, enchanting environment. Many guests comment on how the decorations and architecture make these villages seem like scenes from a fairy tale.

Wine Tasting and Cultural Highlights

The wine tasting in Ribeauvillé is a standout feature, giving travelers a chance to try local wines in a traditional cellar setting. The guided explanation of Alsace’s wine region adds depth to the tasting experience, making it both enjoyable and educational.

Guests also appreciate the additional cultural insights provided by the driver/guide, such as the history of the villages and local customs, which enhance the overall experience.

Practicalities and Tips for Participants

The tour includes bottled water and wine tasting, with hotel pickup and drop-off near Colmar. Since the Christmas markets are free to access, there are no additional entrance fees at the villages.

Travelers should plan for warm clothing, as the tour takes place during winter months when temperatures can be cold. While lunch is not included, stops for a meal are available, and guests should budget accordingly. The tour’s small group format encourages a relaxed pace and personalized attention, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and the winter weather.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience appeals to travelers interested in Alsace’s festive traditions, quaint villages, and local wines. It’s perfect for families, couples, and small groups eager to enjoy holiday scenery without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating crowded markets alone.

The enthusiastic guides and well-planned itinerary make it a reliable choice, although guests should be prepared for potentially crowded markets and cold weather. Those looking for a thorough culture combined with holiday cheer will find this tour provides good value and memorable sights.

Final Reflections on the Christmas Market Tour from Colmar

This 9-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive look at Alsace’s charming villages and Christmas markets, coupled with regional wine tasting. Its hotel pickup and small-group size add to the convenience and intimacy of the experience, making it a pleasant way to celebrate the season.

While the itinerary may vary slightly depending on market opening dates, the enthusiastic guides and beautiful scenery consistently earn praise. The cost of $156.99 reflects good value for a full day of sightseeing, cultural insight, and holiday magic. It suits families, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed, festive outing with a taste of Alsace’s best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided transportation, visits to four villages, wine tasting, and bottled water. Lunch is not included, but stops are available during the day.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, starting at 10:00am and ending back in Colmar.

Are the Christmas markets free?
Yes, entering the markets and villages is free. Costs are only for optional items like food, drinks, and shopping.

What if the weather is cold?
Guests should wear warm clothing, especially hats and gloves, as Alsace winters can be chilly.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply when sharing with one paying adult.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start. In rare cases like medical emergencies, the tour may be canceled with full refunds.

Is hotel pickup available outside Colmar?
If your accommodation is far from the designated pickup points, contact the provider to arrange suitable pickup options.

How many people are in each tour group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I customize my experience?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but slight variations may occur depending on market opening dates and day-to-day circumstances.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of small-group intimacy, regional wine tasting, and visits to authentic Alsace villages decorated for Christmas makes this a special holiday experience that balances sightseeing with culture.