Strasbourg 7-Hour Christmas Markets Tour

When the holiday season rolls around in Alsace, the entire region lights up with festive sights, smells, and sounds. This 7-hour tour takes you out of Strasbourg to experience the magic of Colmar’s bustling Christmas markets, charming villages, and scenic drive along the Alsace Wine Route. For $164 per person, you get a taste of authentic traditions, beautiful architecture, and regional specialties—all in a comfortable, small-group setting.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the well-paced visits to diverse markets—from the medieval ambiance of Riquewihr or Ribeauvillé to the cozy local villages—and the scenic drive through the Alsace countryside, which offers stunning views of vineyards and hillside villages. Plus, the expert guide makes all the difference, sharing stories and insights that bring the region to life.

A possible consideration is the limited free time in each market—about an hour in some stops—which might leave some wanting more time to browse or indulge. Still, this is a straightforward way to sample multiple locations without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating the region on your own.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of Alsace’s Christmas charm with a small group, friendly guide, and some regional sightseeing thrown in. It’s perfect if you love exploring markets, enjoying regional food and wine, and appreciating picturesque villages.

Key Points

Authentic Christmas Markets: Visit Colmar’s historic town center and local villages decorated with festive lights.
Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque journey along the Alsace Wine Route with views of vineyards and traditional villages.
Diverse Destinations: Explore a mix of medieval towns like Riquewihr or Ribeauvillé, and local villages like Obernai or Bergheim.
Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.
Flexible Itinerary: Depending on the date, stops vary to include Christmas markets full of crafts, foods, and seasonal cheer.
Guided Insight: An English-speaking driver/guide provides context, stories, and recommendations throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 17 Pl. de la Cathédrale in Strasbourg, a convenient spot near the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral. From there, you’ll hop into a fully-equipped minivan that promises a comfortable ride through the region. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) helps keep things personal, allowing everyone to ask questions or chime in about the sights.

The drive from Strasbourg to Colmar lasts about an hour, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. We found that the transport is both practical and pleasant, with enough space to relax before diving into the markets.

Exploring Colmar’s Christmas Markets

The highlight of the day is the visit to Colmar’s historic center, where the Christmas illuminations blend beautifully with the town’s medieval and 19th-century architecture. The pedestrianized streets turn into a sort of open-air theater, decked out with twinkling lights and festive decorations.

In the free hour you get here, you can explore five different markets—each offering something unique. Some stalls feature handcrafted ornaments, others showcase regional delicacies like gingerbread and mulled wine, and some sell charming wooden crafts. The flexibility to choose which markets to visit means you can prioritize your interests—whether that’s detailed craft shopping or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere.

Visiting the Villages and Additional Markets

After Colmar, the tour continues with a scenic drive through the Alsace wine region, famous for its picturesque villages and vineyards. Depending on the date, your afternoon may include stops in Obernai or Bergheim, both known for their warm local markets and authentic charm.

On select dates, you’ll visit Riquewihr or Ribeauvillé, towns renowned for their medieval architecture and fairy-tale ambiance. These villages are often featured in holiday postcards for their quaint streets, half-timbered houses, and festive markets—perfect for taking photos or tasting regional treats.

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Regional Wines and Local Delights

While the tour doesn’t include wine tastings or meals, the drive through the Alsace wine route is an added bonus. You’ll pass by vineyards, hillside towns, and scenic vistas—ideal for those who appreciate regional scenery. Many travelers mention the excellent value for money, considering the number of markets and villages covered, coupled with the guide’s local insights.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour operates rain or shine, so pack an umbrella or sunglasses depending on the weather. Bring comfortable shoes—the cobblestone streets and walking involved can be tiring. The tour begins early and lasts roughly 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Because the tour is limited to two or more adults, it’s a small-group experience—more personal than a big bus, less hurried than a self-guided day. The guide’s knowledge is apparent, with many reviews praising Gérôme for his professionalism, punctuality, and friendly attitude.

What Reviewers Say

Many travelers highlight the stunning views and charming markets as the main draws. One reviewer from the US called it a “magical moment,” emphasizing how the illuminated streets create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Another from France appreciated the “very good value for money” and the guide’s explanations, which added context to the sights.

While some wished for a bit more time at each market, the overall consensus is that this is a well-organized, enjoyable way to experience Alsace’s holiday spirit without the stress of self-planning.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $164, this tour provides a comprehensive look at some of the region’s best Christmas markets and picturesque villages. The inclusion of transport, guide, and multiple stops means you avoid the hassle of parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. It’s especially appealing to those who want a structured, informative experience with the comfort of a small group.

On top of that, the scenic drive along the Alsace Wine Route adds a layer of regional charm that’s hard to replicate on your own. The chance to see medieval towns, vineyards, and decorated streets makes this a well-rounded holiday excursion.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves festive markets, regional wines, and picturesque towns, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suitable if you prefer guided visits with local insights rather than planning your own route. Travelers who appreciate authentic holiday atmospheres and want to see a variety of villages without the hassle of driving will find this a worthwhile choice.

Conversely, if you’re the type who wants unlimited free time or to explore every alley and shop in detail, you might find this tour somewhat limited in pace. But for most visitors, the balance of guided commentary, scenic stops, and market visits offers a satisfying taste of Alsace during Christmas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting in the morning and returning to Strasbourg in the early evening.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers visits to the Christmas markets in Colmar and local villages, transportation in a comfortable minivan, and the services of an English-speaking guide.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should plan to purchase snacks or beverages during the stops.

Can I visit more than one market in each village?
Yes, the free time allows you to explore multiple markets within each town or village, tailoring your experience as you wish.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and possibly an umbrella depending on the weather.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

What happens if the minimum number isn’t reached?
If fewer than 2 adults sign up, the tour might be rescheduled or refunded.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to fit your travel plans.

This Strasbourg 7-hour Christmas Markets Tour offers a well-rounded experience of the region’s seasonal charm, guided by knowledgeable hosts and set against the backdrop of fairy-tale villages and scenic vineyards. It’s ideal for travelers who want a stress-free day exploring festive markets, appreciating regional architecture, and enjoying a bit of wine country scenery—all in a small-group setting.

Though the pace is somewhat brisk, the value lies in the diversity of sights and the ease of transportation, making it a practical way to maximize your holiday visit. For those craving a rich, authentic taste of Alsace’s Christmas traditions, this tour proves to be both delightful and memorable.