Close your eyes and imagine a colorful European village at Christmas time. Streets full of eager shoppers. The smell of spiced wine and sausages steaming the brisk air. Festive decorations covering windows and doors. This is Colmar, France, my friends.
Colmar is a town in the Alsace region of northeastern France near the border of Germany. Founded in the 9th century, it is impossible to find anything “modern” when walking the narrow streets of Colmar. Half-timbered houses in chalk-box colors crowd dark cobblestone lanes and bridge-laced canals, which get adorned with mass amounts of Christmas decor come winter time. During the holidays you can explore over five different Christmas Markets here.
If you love Christmas, you must put this destination on your “bucket list” for future holiday travel experiences. The markets are endless, the holiday spirit contagious, and the over-the-top decorations are nothing but outrageous! Enjoy glimpses of my recent stop in Colmar, France through my Rhine River cruise with AmaWaterways, along with travel tips specific for Colmar, France at the end of this post.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR COLMAR
- Ladies, wear comfy shoes, all of the streets are made of cobblestone (flats are a must)
- Temperatures at Christmas time are pleasant but chilly (30-40 degrees Fahrenheit), so pack a cozy jacket and hat
- 5 hour drive or 2 hour speed train ride from Paris
- For a brief day trip to Colmar, follow my route and choose the Rhine River Tour with AmaWaterways – it’s by far the best way to see this region because you can visit so many great places in such a short period of time
LADYHATTAN FAVORITES IN COLMAR
- Try a bratwurst smothered in French flavored sauerkraut paired with “vin chaud” (hot wine)
- Count how many Santas you spot climbing the windows of homes, I spotted over 50
- Get lost and then find “Petite Venise” (the “little Venice” of France)
- Shop til you drop, as there are so many unique gifts including specailty household items, toys, and snacks to purchase
- Find the Teddy Bear House
- Ride the carnival horses
- Enjoy the French and German holiday music echoing narrow streets
- Stop for lunch at the delicious Restaurant JYS
- Grab a cozy cocktail at Chez Moi