Colmar during the Christmas season is truly a sight to behold. The city is famed for its beautifully decorated streets, charming half-timbered houses, and bustling markets that seem to turn the entire town into a fairy-tale village. What makes Colmar especially appealing for Christmas tours is its central location in Alsace, giving easy access to nearby towns and markets that each add their own flavor to the holiday cheer. The specialities of Alsace—mulled wine, gingerbread, and local wines—fill the air, making each experience authentic and festive.
Among the many options, we particularly like the Christmas across the 3 borders tour for its seamless way of combining three different countries’ markets in one day. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see how different regions celebrate Christmas with their own decorations, foods, and traditions—all without the hassle of organizing multiple transport options. For those wanting a more personal, intimate experience, the Colmar: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour offers a quick, local-guided walk that reveals Colmar’s secret corners and holiday traditions.
Below, we present a detailed look at the seven best Christmas tours and experiences in Colmar, helping you find the ideal holiday adventure for your travel style and interests.
1. Christmas across the 3 borders
At number 1 on our list is the Christmas across the 3 borders tour, a 9-hour journey that covers not just one, but three countries—France, Germany, and Switzerland. For around $160, you get to visit the Christmas markets of Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach, each offering a different festive flavor. The tour departs from Colmar and includes hassle-free round-trip transport, so there’s no need to worry about driving or navigating between cities.
What makes this tour stand out is its ability to pack so much holiday magic into a single day. You’ll explore the fortifications of Neuf-Brisach, walk through the Freiburg Christmas market in Germany, and experience the Swiss flair of Basel’s market. The evening illuminations in Basel and Freiburg are particularly enchanting, and you’ll have plenty of free time to browse stalls for unique gifts and local treats. The reviews praise the tour for its smooth organization, friendly guides, and the chance to see multiple markets you might never visit alone. One traveler exclaimed, “Wonderful tour. Would have never been able to pull this one off on my own.”
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their Christmas market experience across borders, with a comfortable, guided day that covers your transport, making it a great value for exploring three diverse European markets.
2. Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar
Second on our list is the Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar, an 8-hour tour that takes you into the heart of Alsace’s charming villages. Priced at about $152, this experience is perfect for travelers interested in discovering the hidden village decorations, tasting local wines, and soaking up the festive atmosphere away from the crowds.
This tour is all about capturing the authentic Alsatian Christmas spirit. You’ll visit picturesque villages decorated in their own unique way, sample mulled wine, and enjoy the aromas of gingerbread and hot chocolate at various markets. The tour emphasizes local culinary delights and festive lights, making it ideal for those who want a cozy, immersive experience. The reviews highlight how beautifully the villages’ decorations are lit up and how much fun it is to capture great photos.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a relaxed day exploring smaller towns and indulging in regional treats, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and culinary delights, with a focus on the authentic local Christmas atmosphere.
3. Christmas Market Tour from Colmar
Third is the Christmas Market Tour from Colmar, a full-day, small-group adventure priced at roughly $157. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient. This tour is especially appealing for those wanting a deeper dive into Alsace’s regional charm, combining visits to small villages with vineyard experiences.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of village visits—Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Ribeauville— with wine tasting and cellar visits. You get a taste of Alsace’s famed wines amid beautifully decorated villages that come alive at night. One reviewer noted, “Having a driver was very convenient and gave helpful tips,” emphasizing how valuable the guided aspect is. The villages are each decorated differently, offering a varied visual experience, and the wine tasting adds a wonderfully local touch.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want a festive, wine-focused day with a relaxed pace and the chance to explore several traditional villages in one trip.
4. From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders
Next, we have the From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders, which closely mirrors the first tour but with a slightly different itinerary and focus. For about $153, this 8-hour excursion takes you to Neuf-Brisach, Freiburg, and Basel, with a strong emphasis on immersing you in UNESCO World Heritage site of Neuf-Brisach and the beautiful markets of Freiburg and Basel.
What sets this tour apart is the detailed storytelling and the well-placed stops, including free time in each city. The reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guide, Didier, is, and that the trip offers a good balance of sightseeing and holiday shopping. One traveler mentioned, “The locations were perfect, and the guide was very helpful.” The tour is perfect for travelers who want a full, cross-border experience with a comfortable, guided approach.
Bottom Line: If you’re keen on exploring three fascinating markets in one day with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free experience that highlights the diversity of Christmas celebrations across borders.
5. Unusual treasure hunt on the Christmas markets of Colmar
For something fun and interactive, the Unusual treasure hunt on the Christmas markets of Colmar is a unique choice. Priced at only $45.30 for up to six people, this 2-hour experience is perfect for families, friends, or colleagues looking to add a playful twist to their holiday.
This treasure hunt takes you into the heart of Colmar’s markets, where you’ll hunt for clues, solve puzzles, and recover photos and videos that are directly saved to your smartphone. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s an engaging, friendly challenge that makes discovering the markets more interactive. Reviewers have highlighted how much fun they had, with one calling it “a magical visit that creates friendly moments.” It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with entertainment and social bonding.
Bottom Line: This is a great option for active, young travelers or families who want a memorable, playful way to experience Colmar’s Christmas markets.
$45.30 per group (up to 6)
6. Colmar: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local
Next, we have a Colmar: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local, a 1-hour tour for around $116. This intimate experience is ideal for those who want a quick, authentic overview of what makes Colmar’s Christmas markets special. Led by a local, the tour reveals hidden stories, local traditions, and seasonal treats.
What makes this tour stand out is its personal touch—it’s limited to eight travelers, ensuring a more conversational and detailed experience. The guide shares local secrets, and you’ll get tips on where to find the best seasonal treats and crafts. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of the holiday magic without committing to a full day.
Bottom Line: For a quick, insightful glimpse into Colmar’s Christmas traditions and markets, this local-guided walk offers a memorable, personable experience.
$116 per person
7. Colmar: Christmas Market and City Highlights Walking Tour
Finally, the Colmar: Christmas Market and City Highlights Walking Tour offers a 3-hour deep dive into Colmar’s highlights, including the Unterlinden Museum, La Petite Venise, and the Pfister House. Priced at $726 per person, it’s more suited for history and architecture enthusiasts.
This comprehensive tour walks you through the town’s most iconic sights, all decorated festively for Christmas. The guide helps you appreciate the architecture and stories behind each site, while also giving you ample time to enjoy the Christmas market ambiance. Reviewers note that the tour is very informative, with a focus on local buildings and traditions. It’s ideal for travelers who want a detailed, cultural experience of Colmar during the holidays.
Bottom Line: For those interested in combining cultural sightseeing with festive cheer, this tour is a rich, immersive experience, but it’s best suited for those willing to spend a bit more.
$726 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Tour in Colmar
Picking the right Christmas experience depends on your priorities. If you want to see as much as possible across borders, the Christmas across the 3 borders or From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders tours offer comprehensive itineraries. For a cozy, local experience, the Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour provides a quick, intimate insight, while the Enchanting Christmas Experience emphasizes exploring small villages and tasting regional wines.
Those traveling with family or looking for a fun activity can’t go wrong with the treasure hunt, which turns sightseeing into a game. If you’re a cultural enthusiast, the comprehensive City Highlights Tour offers an in-depth look at Colmar’s architecture and history.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests—whether you prefer relaxed village visits, cross-border markets, or cultural city tours. Booking early is wise, especially during peak holiday season, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Colmar offers a wonderful variety of Christmas tours to match every traveler’s style. From the expansive, cross-border markets to intimate guided walks and playful treasure hunts, there’s something to suit all ages and interests. If you love discovering new places, the Christmas across the 3 borders tour is hard to beat for its diversity and convenience. For those craving a more local, cozy experience, the Enchanting Christmas will fill your camera roll with festive village scenes.
No matter which tour you choose, remember that Christmas in Colmar is about the warmth, the lights, and the delicious smells. To enjoy these magical moments, book early and prepare to be charmed by this picturesque town’s holiday spirit.