A Christmas weekend in Colmar

A stroll round round the historic town centre

Make your way through illuminated streets and discover Colmar’s many architectural gems and its numerous half-timbered buildings, all beautifully decorated for the festive season. Linger awhile in romantic La Petite Venise and then head to Koïfhus and its pretty square which hosts one of the town’s five Christmas markets dedicated to local artists and craftspeople.

A chic gourmet break

Taste buds to the ready, we’re heading to Place de la Cathédrale for a gastronomic stop in the midst of the festive buzz. The concept? 8 chalets, 8 chefs and maîtres-restaurateurs concocting divine dishes. Pure culinary joy from starter to dessert, a feast for the eyes and the belly, to be enjoyed on the spot against the backdrop of Saint-Martin collegiate church.

Artistic and historical marvels

Once your belly is filled with delicious fare, head for the Musée Unterlinden. The museum housed in this statuesque modern building organises visits on seasonal themes every year. On the programme? A selection of works with references to Christmas including painted and sculpted representations of the Nativity and the Adoration of the Magi from the Middle Ages, but also the mythical watercolours of Hansi showing Colmar under a pretty mantle of snow.

Fervour and emotion

Round off your day with a moment of calm and pure enjoyment. Attend one of the Christmas concerts given in Colmar’s churches, including the famous Collégiale Saint-Martin! Close your eyes and let the bewitching voices of an Alsatian choir tell you the story of Christmas.

With the Christmas Shuttle buses, it’s easy to get out of Colmar and visit one of the charming villages on the Alsatian Wine Route. Choose your Christmas destination: the shuttles leave from Colmar railway station.

A medieval Christmas in Ribeauvillé

The architecture of Ribeauvillé, known as the “Cité des Ménétriers” (city of fiddlers) offers a unique setting for a medieval escapade during the festive season. Its Christmas market, huddled at the bottom of the towers and ramparts, invites you to step back in time and experience the magic of Christmases of old. Roast boar and period costumes will be out in force! And while you’re here, why not take a little detour to the village of Hunawihr, just a few kilometres away. The charming Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur church, which dominates the village, is home to a series of authentic frescoes relating the life of St. Nicolas.

A picturesque Christmas in Eguisheim

In Eguisheim, officially classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, the numerous Christmas illuminations reveal all the splendour of the half-timbered buildings. Give in to the picturesque charm of this fortified village: a delightful setting, sumptuously decorated, that guarantees a Christmas outing you won’t forget.

A craft Christmas in Kayserberg

Take a stroll round the chalets in the Christmas market in the heart of Kaysersberg: you’ll find numerous local local craftspeople and local food producers. Christmas decorations and other objects, wooden toys and local produce cover stall after stall, and will not fail to delight.