What is the difference between Strasbourg Christmas market and Colmar Christmas market?

Colmar, a more authentic market Just 70 kilometres from Strasbourg, on the Alsace wine route, Colmar offers an equally enchanting Christmas market experience, but with a more intimate and picturesque atmosphere, I find. For the 2023 edition, Colmar expects to welcome between 1.3 and 1.5 million visitors.

Which is better Colmar or Strasbourg?

Both Strasbourg and Colmar have their unique charm and attractions. While Strasbourg may offer more options for accommodation, food, and activities, Colmar provides a quieter and more intimate experience. Either way, both towns are worth a visit and offer something special for every type of traveler.

Are there Christmas markets in Strasbourg vs Colmar?

With 180 chalets concentrated in the old town, the Colmar Christmas Market has a cozier feel than bustling Strasbourg. It felt less crowded as well. The offerings are similar, with high-quality Alsatian products taking center stage. One notable difference is the Colmar Gourmet Market.

Is Colmar Christmas market worth visiting?

Since then, Alsace has been a region definitely worth visiting during end-of-year celebrations. Colmar Christmas market enjoys a solid reputation by its authenticity and tremendous decorations and ornaments.

What is the best French Christmas market?

1. Strasbourg's Christmas Market. Strasbourg's Christmas market is actually the oldest Christmas market in France. Created in 1570, it is the French Christmas market with the highest number of visitors per year attracting more than 2 million curious people to discover the 300 or so stalls.

STRASBOURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS - Capital of Christmas (European Christmas Markets Tour 3 of 6)

Is Strasbourg Christmas market worth it?

As the oldest running Christmas market in Strasbourg, it deserves to take the No. 1 spot. The first Christkindelsmärik took place on Place Broglie in 1871, and it's grown from there. You can't miss it with its big illuminated sign at the entrance, it's definitely worth a visit.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe?

Vilnius Christmas Market is one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Europe. Its authentic Christmas market located at the foot of the Christmas tree, is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world.

What is so special about Colmar?

The city is renowned for its well-preserved old town, its numerous architectural landmarks and its museums, among which is the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is located on the Alsatian Wine Route and considers itself to be the capital of Alsatian wine (capitale des vins d'Alsace).

Why is Strasbourg Christmas market famous?

Strasbourg has been holding Christkindelsmärik around its cathedral since 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. The name "Christkindelsmärik" is of Alsatian origin, a low Alemannic German dialect which was the mainly spoken language in the Alsace until the 20th century.

How long is the Colmar Christmas market?

For six weeks, the whole of Old Colmar, miraculously protected from the vicissitudes of history, becomes one huge multi-faceted Christmas Market. Here, as you browse round the 180 stalls, you really feel the magic of Christmas seeping into you.

Can you do Strasbourg and Colmar in a day?

Colmar is easy to reach from Strasbourg, either by car or by train. More than 40 trains shuttle between the two cities every day, taking around 40 minutes each way. We decide to take the train, as much for the sake of the environment as to avoid having to worry about traffic and parking.

In which city is the biggest French Christmas market?

Two of the biggest French Christmas markets are in Colmar and Strasbourg, which you may visit on one of our Alsace tours.

What happens in Colmar at Christmas?

At Christmas, the town goes all-out with decorations, and its market is also worth a visit. There are lots of options for places to stay in the heart of Colmar. La Maison des Tetes–This five-star boutique hotel is located in an historic early 17th-century building.

Is Colmar worth visiting from Strasbourg?

IT'S AN EASY DAY TRIP FROM STRASBOURG OR BASEL

So if you're planning a weekend break in Strasbourg or Basel, Colmar is only a short train ride away. I know some people wonder if they should visit Colmar or Strasbourg, and since they're situated only 30 minutes from one another, you should absolutely experience both.

How many days to spend in Strasbourg and Colmar?

There are wonderful BnBs and small hotels which will make your stay a memorable experience. Oh, also two night minimum in each small village. You want to try some of the wonderful local restaurants at night. You an easily spend 2 full days in Strasbourg, a full day in Colmar and 1 or 2 in the wine vilages.

What is the most beautiful village near Colmar?

Eguisheim. Also close to Colmar, Eguisheim is a magnificent village. Its streets and alleyways wind in concentric, colourful circles around the Château des Comtes. Visiting this colourful, lively village is a delight!

When should I go to Strasbourg Christmas market?

From November 24th to December 24th, treat yourself to an enchanted interlude in Strasbourg.

What is the most famous Christmas market in the world?

The main Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt – is one of the oldest and best-known markets globally. It's known for its array of handcrafted goods for sale and for its fantastic German Bratwurst, gingerbread, and other traditional treats.

Do you need tickets for the Strasbourg Christmas market?

No, there are no tickets required to visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market. However, if you've never been before it's a good idea to do a Christmas Market Tour and enjoy the markets throughout the Alsace region.

How long do you need to see Colmar?

A lot of visitors only spend a day visiting Colmar, but if you have time to spare it's worth staying at least one night. The best reason to stay overnight is that in the early mornings or at dusk you can almost have Petit Venice to yourself.

How much time do you need in Colmar?

If you are staying in Colmar as a home base and want to explore other towns in the Alsace region, I would recommend 3 – 5 days. If you are staying somewhere else in the Alsace region and just want to do a quick trip to Colmar, France, you could totally do it as a day trip. Just know that it will be a little bit rushed.

Is one day enough for Colmar?

Colmar is such a charming town to visit year-round. Whether you want to explore its enchanting Christmas markets around the holiday season or stroll around Petite Venise in early spring, you'll definitely want to spend at least one day in Colmar to enjoy its beauty.

Which city in Europe has the best Christmas markets?

The 20 Best Christmas Markets In Europe, Budapest At The Top, By European Best Destinations. Senior Contributor. Based on a record 600,000 votes by travelers from 168 countries worldwide, the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has unveiled its list of “the most beautiful Christmas markets to visit 2023-24.”

Where is the most Christmassy place in Europe?

1. Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe. This city is no stranger to Christmas markets, with the city's first Christmas market dating back to 1530.

Who has the biggest Christmas market in Europe?

The biggest Christmas market in Europe happens in Vienna, Austria, near the city's historic city hall, called the Rathausplatz. The Vienna Christmas market receives around 3 million visitors every year.