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Colmar Christmas markets

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Colmar Christmas markets

Six Christmas markets in a fairy-tale town of lights, from late November to the end of December.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Evening
Entry
Free
Best time
Weekday evenings in December
Area
Old Town

Several themed Christmas markets in the squares from late November.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Old town squares, 68000 Colmar (Place des Dominicains, Place de l'Ancienne Douane, Place Jeanne d'Arc, Little Venice)

  • Train: Extra TER trains run from Strasbourg in December; book early on weekends.
  • On foot: The markets are all within the old town, 15–20 minutes from the station.
  • Parking: Park-and-ride shuttles operate on busy weekends.

The story of Colmar's Christmas markets

Alsace is often called the home of the Christmas market, a tradition that goes back to the Middle Ages, and Colmar has become one of its most magical settings. Each year its squares host several themed markets, from the Dominicans' square beside the church to a children's market in Little Venice.

The whole old town is lit at night, and stalls sell handmade decorations, Alsatian bredele biscuits, gingerbread and hot drinks. Colmar's market regularly appears in lists of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Best time to visit

Best season

Usually from the last week of November until 29 or 30 December.

Best time of day

After dark, when the lights come on, ideally on a weekday.

Avoid the crowds

Weekends in December are very busy; arrive early or come midweek.

Tips before you go

  • Weekends are very crowded. Visit on weekdays if you can.
  • Try hot spiced apple juice, bredele biscuits and pain d'épices (gingerbread).
  • Book hotels months ahead for December, or stay in Strasbourg and take the train.

Best hotels near Colmar's Christmas markets

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hôtel Le Maréchal

Romantic waterside hotel in Little Venice.

See prices

Hôtel Le Colombier

Boutique hotel close to the markets.

See prices

L'Esquisse Hôtel & Spa

Modern hotel with a spa, ideal after a cold evening.

See prices
All hotels near Colmar's Christmas markets

What's around Colmar's Christmas markets

  • Little VeniceIts children's market and boats lit for Christmas.
  • Koïfhus marketCrafts market inside the old customs house.
  • EguisheimNearby village with its own small Christmas market.
  • StrasbourgFrance's oldest Christmas market, 30 minutes by train.

Questions travellers ask

When are the Colmar Christmas markets?

Usually from late November until the end of December. Check the exact dates each year.

How many markets are there?

Several themed markets, usually five or six, spread across the old town squares.

Is Colmar or Strasbourg better for Christmas?

Strasbourg is bigger and older; Colmar is smaller and more fairy-tale. Many visitors see both.

More in Colmar

Little Venice (Petite Venise)

Little Venice (Petite Venise)

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Colmar Old Town

Colmar Old Town

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Covered Market (Marché Couvert)

Covered Market (Marché Couvert)

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Travel Plan · Colmar Christmas markets Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure