Go visit! The markets tend to open in the last week or so of November and are some of the first to open in the surrounding area. Though a little further away from Colmar than Egensheim, one of the best places to experience Christmas in the Alsace off the beaten tourist track is by heading to the charming city of Obernai. Truly the place to be for a genuinely exceptional Christmas experience! This post may contain affiliate links. It is with a heavy heart that we confirm that the Christmas Markets in Colmar and Turckheim will not be maintained this year. In total, around fifty chalets are present, selling everything from Alsace produce to Christmas decorations. There are five markets spread throughout the town, all very easy to find and are all walking distance from each other. If you’re arriving in Colmar by car then this is likely the first market you’ll frequent during your city visit. But first… If you’re wondering whether or not it’s worth visiting the annual festive event in Colmar, then it’s time to stop your search! It is very small, however, and can get pricey during the festive season so feel free to look for places outside of the town as well Visit come Christmastime and you’ll soon discover a wealth of festive events, including, of course, a number of festive markets. For those who wish to discover even more about the local Eastern French cuisine, it’s worth noting that culinary shows are held in the centre of the market tent on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 5 PM. Charming and delightful, here’s your complete guide to Obernai Christmas Market. But the Christmas spirit will blow on us, because Christmas will always remain Alsatian! Situated amidst a sea of timber-framed houses, the Square of Place Jeanne d’Arc is dedicated to foodstuffs and other goods that originate in the Alsace and beyond. Let yourself be inspired . I have just produced a short video about this wonderful market that will show you all about it which you can find it on my YouTube channel. Even if its raining on your trip to Colmar then try not to panic since there’s even an indoor market where you can enjoy the best of the festive cheer sheltered from the elements. Answer 1 of 7: Spending 3 days in zurich and 2 days in lucerne the first week in December. The Christmas Market in Colmar (Marchés de noël de Colmar. Colmar - Christmas Market RÉGION GRAND EST . The « Fabric Boutique» is a specificity of Mulhouse, the creative : the Christmas market is famous for its decoration made with an exclusive fabric specially created every year. The markets really come into their own when lit up with the half-timbered houses as backdrop. Each of these markets is like a separate little village with its special atmosphere and craftsmen from all over Alsace. The Christmas Market Because Christmas in Colmar is an occasion not to be missed, the town has five festive markets that house their own kind of holiday spirit. As its name would suggest, this Christmas Market lies in the shadow of the Collegiate Church of Saint Martin (Cathedral Square being a bit of a misnomer considering that the ecclesiastical building was only a cathedral for around a decade!). Set over two floors, highlights include plenty of unique jewellery pieces, vintage maps and antiquarian books, and hand-turned wooden products. The magic of Christmas in Alsace, for the 1st time ever in NYC! The setting of the market had to respect the rich architectural heritage of Colmar. There are 6 Christmas markets, all of them in the Old Town. This is also one of the markets in the city where you can drink your Glühwein from a mug, as opposed to a plastic cup! Alternatively, you can also book to stay in an Airbnb. (to be confirmed) Let’s go to Colmar, a city where the magic of Christmas has been experienced in its purest form for six entire weeks, for 20 years. For the past five years, I've been writing about the weird and wonderful on this travel and culture blog, with a particular focus on history, hidden gems, and offbeat adventures in Europe and beyond. I am thinking about taking a day trip to Colmar to experience the Christmas market. Taking place in Place Rapp, there’s a Christmas tree Market where you can purchase ‘Sapins de Noël’ (Christmas trees, literally translated as ‘Christmas firs’). Colmar is a French fairytale town on the border with Germany. Colmar Christmas Market (Place Jeanne d’Arc) © French Moments But the multitude of stalls at the Colmar Christmas market did not just happen by magic. Lille Christmas Market. La Magie de Noël au Pays des Etoiles) is one of the most typical of Alsace. Here’s a top selection of Colmar accomodation, based on web ratings and locations. Like most other Christmas markets in Europe, you should be sure to bring along plenty of cash as bank cards are not widely accepted at the Christmas Market stalls. Here’s your complete Colmar Christmas Market guide, including events and things to do! Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, Paris, pizza, and history, though not necessarily in that order. Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg lives up to its reputation. The city of Lille in northern France welcomes visitors during the holiday … Your way will be drawn by illuminations linking to the city’s five Christmas markets, in a labyrinth of small streets lined with century old half-timbered houses. Each with its own particular theme, the markets will envelop you in the magic of Christmas, a unique atmosphere guaranteed to delight young and old alike. Well-reviewed and situated close to many of the best Colmar attractions, Le Colombier is a four-star accommodation offering the likes of air-conditioning, room service, and Wi-Fi. Situated in the Alsace region to the east of France, the settlement is best-known for its abundance of timber-framed houses and rich medieval history. Bonjour, ciao, and welcome to my little corner of the internet! Colmar — Aside from Strasbourg, the Colmar Christmas market is the main destination in Alsace in winter. © 2015- 2020 Sophie Nadeau. What else to buy at the Colmar Christmas market Other than the food, you can expect to find a lot of crafty items, Christmas decorations, household goodies, and handmade everything. With this being said, there’s certainly no shortage of unique things to do in Colmar that aren’t Christmas related. The Colmar Christmas Market scene has six different markets scattered around the cutesy Old Town, including a brand new gourmet market that focuses on delicious made-to-order food! Situated right in the heart of the historic town centre, Colmar’s six Christmas markets radiate warmth and an inviting atmosphere where you are sure to make some delightful discoveries. Their designs have been specifically created with the help of an architect. From vin chaud to handcrafted goods, this market sells everything you could hope to expect from a traditional European market. Highlights include performances throughout the Christmas period at Saint Matthieu’s church, including Advent events, violin concertos, and even a Youth Symphony Orchestra concert. The ultimate Christmas market foodie experience is to be discovered by those who head to Place de la Cathedrale. If you’re arriving in Colmar by car then this is likely the first market you’ll frequent during your city visit. in the historic town Each of Colmar's six Christmas Markets is a separate mini-village with its own collection of passionate craftsmen. Situated right in the heart of the historic town centre, Colmar’s six Christmas markets radiate warmth and an inviting atmosphere where you are sure to make some delightful discoveries. solosophie is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. STRASBOURG-COLMAR-MULHOUSE Christmas Market will create a genuine Christmas Village in Bowling Green Park in Lower Manhattan from December 6 to 22, 2019. Furthermore, in order to purchase a vin chaud, you’ll also have to pay a deposit of €1 per plastic cup, which you’ll get back upon returning said cup! Situated in a building steps away from the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, the indoor market places a particular focus on handcrafted goods and vintage products. Check rates and availability here. Though English is fairly widely spoken, particularly by those working in the tourism industry, it’s only polite to learn a few words of the local language, in this case French. It’s a fairytale town, just 30min away by train. Last Updated on 22nd November 2020 by Sophie Nadeau. Not only is this über luxe hotel complete with amenities such as a pool, air-conditioning, and WiFi, but it’s also full of historic quirks that make this a unique place to stay. Currently based in Paris after studies in London, she's spent most of her life living in the beautiful Devonian countryside in South West England! In total, there are several dozen Bavarian-style chalets set around the church in a horseshoe shape. www.scorcio.it. As you might expect from such a beautiful town, Colmar has no shortage of places to stay to suit every budget and need. Subtly illuminated streets and alleyways invite you to stroll gently through the Capital of Alsatian Wine, soaking up the atmosphere in a town whose outstanding heritage provides the perfect setting for the festivities! solosophie participates in various affiliate marketing programs. But these aren’t just cookie cutter stalls full of boring goods. When visiting the Colmar markets, be sure to bring along a comfortable pair of walking shoes (heels are pretty but don’t mix well with cobbled lanes), not to mention a warm jacket to combat the cold. This is where all the Christmas markets are and, ideally, it’s, therefore, the best place to stay. Colmar old town is about 15-minute walk from the train station. Featuring a selection of nine chalets set under a covering (making this the other ‘semi-indoor’ Christmas Market in Colmar), the cabins are arranged in a semi-circle around tables where you can sit and enjoy your gourmet finds on small benches. From spying a quarter-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty (the man who designed the monument was born in Colmar) to enjoying coffee at one of the best cafés in town, for those who wish to wander off the beaten path, the Aslace city has plenty of secrets to uncover. Just a fifteen-minute drive away from Colmar by car, Eguesheim is a hidden gem worth discovering on any trip to the Alsace region. If there was ever a place where you would find Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Belle and Snow White all hanging out together then Colmar, Alsace would be the place. Colmar Christmas Market is my favorite Christmas Market in Alsace. Every Christmas market in Colmar has something different to offer, so here’s a quick rundown of where to go and what to expect. If you want to enjoy a beautiful, cozy Christmas in a historic location, head to Strasbourg and Colmar, France. Come nightfall, the former Customs House is illuminated with a thousand twinkling lights. 15 views Kaysersberg: the most authentic Voir cette publication sur Instagram. Mulhouse, the creative hotspot! If you want to jump into Christmas market festivities as early as possible, Colmar might be the destination for you! Of course, almost city has its own claim to fame as being the ‘Venice of X,’ but Colmar’s version of Venice is particularly beautiful and draws crowds all year ’round. Colmar Christmas Market Colmar has several official Christmas markets, but they all sort of merge into one big fairy-tale like experience as the stalls spill into the narrow, winding cobbled streets. the man who designed the Statue of Liberty), it’s necessary to head to Place de l’Ancienne Douane, which is literally translated into English as ‘Ancient Customs Square,’ as a sculpture of Auguste Bartholdi is to be found here. Check rates and availability here. Throughout the festive season, events take place across the city, but the most notable are those of the concerts. As you stroll around the stalls and wooden chalets, the lights and decorations will carry you away into Christmas wonderland. If there is a place that can compare to Strasbourg, it’s Colmar. The Colmar Christmas markets are open daily, including on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day from November 21 (2014) through December 31st. I was dazzled by the beauty of the town dressed in its Christmas attire the first time I went and I am still filled with wonder every single year. Each with its own particular theme, the markets will envelop you in the magic of Christmas, a unique atmosphere guaranteed to delight young and old alike. About the Colmar Christmas Market Aside from the fact that Colmar is picture-perfect, most people visit Colmar in winter for its Christmas markets that run for about 5 weeks, from the last week of November through December 30 (note that they are cancelled for 2020). From Friday December 6th to Sunday December 22th, 2019. Hands down, the best time to visit Colmar is at Christmastime when the markets are in full swing and the town is all decked out for the festive season (think timber-framed houses complete with shuttered windows covered in Santa Clauses, teddy bears, and all mode of glitter decorations). Set against the backdrop of a building dating all the way back to the 1500s, other amenities include a sauna and lounge area. Bring along a simple French phrasebook like this one to help you get by. Installed in squares with their own architectural signature, these islands of festivity reflect the character of the city hosting them: friendly and authentic. Nis&For. Please check out my, Ultimate Guide to Travel & Blogging Resources, 9 REASONS WHY FALLING IN LOVE WITH A FRENCHMAN ISN’T ALL CLICHÉS BERETS AND BAGUETTES, A Girls Getaway Weekend in Bordeaux Itinerary, HOW TO SPEND THREE DAYS IN BRITTANY: EXPERIENCE MAGIC, MEDIEVAL AND HISTORIC NORTH-WESTERN FRANCE. Its medieval buildings with their colorful, tiled roofs and their half-timbered facades look they came from a storybook. The markets start the last week of November and run till December, 24 (more info here). Please note that due to the ongoing health crisis, the Colmar Christmas Market is cancelled in 2020. Though you should pack comfortable walking shoes to get around the town (high heels sure look pretty but they definitely don’t mix well with the cobblestone lanes that are common in Europe), every market is situated along a 1 km long trail, meaning that all can be seen over the course of a day. Most of the items at the Christmas market were special and ranged from hand-knit gloves to chocolates to cakes to cute … Much of the Alsace town is focused around a central market square and it’s here where Obernai’s main Christmas Market is to be found. Though wonderful to visit during the daytime, the city is truly best-seen at night, when a dazzling display of lights illuminates the city and its many canals, transforming Colmar into a true winter wonderland. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Though there was not by way of meat-free options to be found, those who frequent this market can expect to discover plenty of Alsace specialities as well as some vin chaud! The nearby carousel costs €2, while the Christmas roller coaster costs €2,50. Colmar Christmas Market Locations: Where to Stay. 2018 à 9 :27 PST. Click here for money off your first trip if you haven’t used the booking site before! Most Christmas market stalls. Colmar is no exception and boasts a particularly large skating rink, which clocks in at 800 metres squared and is to be found at Place Rapp. As its name would suggest, one of the largest Colmar Christmas Markets lies in the shadows of the former Dominican Church which has since been transformed into a museum featuring Alsatian artworks. The beguiling charm of the Festive Season in Colmar! Learn how your comment data is processed. The Christmas Market in Colmar Onto the fun things, you came here for the mulled wine and cute houses after all! Colmar Christmas market. For more information about visiting this festive event, here’s your ultimate guide to Eguisheim Christmas Market. For those who wish to follow in the footsteps of one of the most famous Frenchmen to have ever lived in Colmar (i.e. If arriving by car, then there are several free parking spots, that are not paid during parts of the day. As its name would suggest, one of the largest Colmar Christmas Markets lies in the shadows of the former Dominican Church which has since been transformed into a museum featuring Alsatian artworks. I chose this Airbnb just outside the city center, but within 10-minutes walking distance of all the Christmas markets. Europe Video Production travel films: Christmas Market of Colmar in France - Marché de Noël de Noël - Weihnachtsmarkt Alsace Europe. The official Christmas season in Colmar this year is from 22nd November to 29th December and there will be six Christmas Markets! I personally love this coat as it’s ever so warm and vegan! When you add the lights and seasonal decorations, Colmar becomes a … The Colmar Christmas markets are some of the first to open in the area. Colmar Christmas Market Let me tell you about the magic of Christmas in Colmar. Nearby, the three castles of Eguisheim are a trio of ruinous sandstone monuments dating all the way back to the middle ages. Fun for all the family, highlights include a mechanical Nativity Scene, plenty of hot apple juice, and even the chance to post a letter to Father Christmas! Consistently ranked as one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, the city is transformed into a delightful extravaganza of twinkling lights, oversized trees, teddy-bear walls, and all the wooden-style chalet stalls! 2. Even if you aren’t looking for anything like that, it’s nice to window shop the different stalls and unique creations. If you’re in search of the ultimate luxurious experience when it comes to Colmar, then you need to look no further than the five-star hotel in the historic city centre. A fan of all things France related, she runs solosophie.com when she's not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming her weight in sweet food. With a focus on artisanal products, you surely won’t be disappointed should you chose to visit the Place Jeanne d’Arc. 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