Colmar transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, making it a perfect base for exploring Christmas Tours & Experiences in the Alsace region. Its beautifully decorated streets, historic architecture, and cozy markets create a truly magical setting. What makes Colmar special is its combination of authentic Alsatian charm and proximity to other festive towns and cross-border markets. For instance, the Christmas across the 3 borders tour (see here) offers an effortless way to visit not just Colmar, but also the Christmas markets of Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach—all in one day. This trip is ideal for those who want to experience a variety of holiday atmospheres without the hassle of planning transportation themselves.
If you’re interested in a more immersive, village-hopping experience, the Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar (see here) will appeal. It highlights traditional Alsatian villages decorated in unique ways, with opportunities to taste local wines and seasonal treats. For a shorter, more intimate experience, the Colmar: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local (see here) provides a cozy, guided walk through Colmar’s most enchanting markets, perfect for those who want a quick but meaningful holiday highlight.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top Christmas tours, so you can decide which best fits your holiday plans and interests.
1. Christmas across the 3 borders
At number 1 on our list is the Christmas across the 3 borders tour, which offers a fantastic way to visit three Christmas markets in one day—Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach. This tour is perfect if you want to experience the diversity of European holiday traditions without the stress of driving or navigation. Starting from Colmar, you’ll head to Neuf-Brisach, the UNESCO-listed fortification with a charming Christmas market and unique military architecture. Later, you’ll explore Freiburg’s lively markets, decorated with traditional German flair, and finish with Basel’s Swiss market glowing with lights and festive stalls.
The tour’s standout feature is its seamless transportation and expert guide who helps you learn about each city’s history and customs. Reviews emphasize how hassle-free and enjoyable the experience is, with travelers noting the guide’s friendliness and the beauty of the illuminated markets. Priced at $160.40 per person for roughly nine hours, it offers excellent value considering the logistics avoided and the variety of markets covered. If you want a well-organized, multi-border adventure that captures Christmas spirit across borders, this is your best bet.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience across three countries in one festive day.
2. Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar
The Enchanting Christmas Experience From Colmar is a favorite for those seeking a cozy exploration of Alsatian villages. For around $152, you’ll spend about eight hours discovering beautifully decorated villages like Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, and Riquewihr. This tour emphasizes the atmosphere of traditional Alsace, with picturesque streets, glowing lights, and charming market stalls. Along the way, you can taste local wines and warm mulled wine, enhancing the sensory experience of Christmas.
Highlights include the aroma of gingerbread, the glow of colorful illuminations, and stunning photo opportunities. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a leisurely, scenic day immersed in local holiday customs. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and the ability to explore at your own pace, making it ideal for those who enjoy wandering through small towns rather than large markets. This tour balances culture with relaxed sightseeing and is especially appealing to wine lovers and photographers alike.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those who want a taste of Alsatian village life during Christmas, with plenty of photo-worthy moments and wine tastings.
3. Christmas Market Tour from Colmar
Number 3 on our list is the Christmas Market Tour from Colmar, a guided, small-group experience priced at $156.99 for roughly nine hours. This tour is ideal for travelers who want the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, along with visits to several small towns and villages. You’ll pass through the vineyards of Alsace, with opportunities to taste local wines and visit a wine cave, making it a wine enthusiast’s dream.
The itinerary features stops in Eguisheim, with its charming, medieval streets, and Riquewihr, famous for its fairy-tale architecture. In the evening, you’ll explore Kaysersberg, beautifully lit and alive with Christmas cheer, and conclude with a visit to a wine cellar for tastings. Guests highlight the combination of scenic drives, cultural sites, and festive markets as a highlight. The tours are family-friendly and offer an immersive experience that combines culinary delights and historical towns.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want an all-in-one experience with expert guiding and wine tasting in a festive setting.
4. From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders
Next is the From Colmar: Christmas Markets Across 3 Borders, which is similar to the first tour but slightly shorter at around 8 hours for $153. It focuses on visiting Neuf-Brisach’s UNESCO fortifications, Freiburg’s German markets, and Basel’s Swiss markets. This tour offers the opportunity to explore three distinctive cultural environments, each with its own Christmas traditions.
The highlight is the visit to Neuf-Brisach, where history and festivity come together, along with ample time in Freiburg and Basel to enjoy local treats and crafts. The guide, Didier, is frequently praised for his friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging. Reviewers mention it as a “marvelous” day with helpful commentary. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a shorter border-crossing adventure that balances sightseeing, shopping, and holiday atmosphere.
Bottom Line: An excellent trip for those wanting a taste of French, German, and Swiss Christmas markets in one day.
5. Unusual Track Game on Christmas Markets in Mulhouse
The Unusual Track Game on Christmas Markets in Mulhouse is a fun, interactive activity perfect for families, friends, or colleagues. For only $46.69 per group, you can enjoy a 2-hour treasure hunt-style game. It combines the Christmas market experience with a light-hearted challenge, where players follow clues across the market stalls, capturing photos and videos that are saved directly to your smartphone.
What makes this tour stand out is its playful approach to exploring the markets, making it suitable for those who want a different kind of holiday activity. Reviews are glowing, noting the friendly atmosphere and the fun of discovering markets in a new way. It’s ideal for groups seeking an active, memorable experience that is both entertaining and culturally rich.
Bottom Line: A great pick for families or groups wanting a unique, engaging way to enjoy Colmar’s markets.
6. Unusual treasure hunt on the Christmas markets of Colmar
The Unusual treasure hunt on the Christmas markets of Colmar is another playful option, priced at $45.30 per group. You’ll explore Colmar’s festive markets through a fun, interactive hunt that leads you to discover hidden details and learn the stories behind the decorations and stalls. Photos and videos are saved directly to your smartphone, making it easy to share your adventures.
Targeted at groups of up to six, this activity is ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a little adventure. Reviewers mention the friendly atmosphere and the joy of uncovering the city’s secrets in a relaxed setting. It’s particularly suited for families or friends looking for a more playful and personalized holiday experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those who prefer a mischievous, interactive way to explore Colmar’s Christmas markets.
7. Colmar: Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local
For a short, intimate experience, the Christmas Market Magic Walking Tour with a Local is perfect. At just $116, this 1-hour guided walk offers a personalized look at Colmar’s most enchanting markets. Your local guide will share insights into local traditions, culinary delights, and hidden spots that escape larger tours.
Guests rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see the city through a local’s eyes. This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time or those who want a deeper appreciation of Colmar’s festive charm without the crowds. You’ll learn about local Christmas customs and taste seasonal treats, all in an intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A great quick, personalized introduction to Colmar’s Christmas magic for those who love small-group experiences.
8. Colmar Christmas Market Secrets: Your Essential Guide
This self-guided tour is perfect if you prefer exploring at your own pace. It covers key highlights like Little Venice, the Renaissance and Medieval architecture, and the lively markets. It’s ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility and in-depth knowledge.
The guide offers insights into hidden spots and local traditions, with detailed itineraries and tips. While it has no live guide, it includes audio guides in English and German, making it easy to explore Colmar’s festive neighborhoods on your schedule. This option suits travelers who prefer a self-paced, educational experience but still want expert tips.
Bottom Line: Best for independent explorers eager to uncover Colmar’s festive secrets at their own pace.
9. From Basel: Colmar Christmas Market & Wine Tasting Day Tour
Finally, the From Basel: Colmar Christmas Market & Wine Tasting Day Tour combines holiday cheer with Alsace wine tasting. This private, approximately 8-hour tour offers an immersive experience of Colmar’s markets along with a visit to a local winery for tastings of Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Perfect for wine lovers, this tour provides a guided stroll through Colmar’s medieval streets, highlighting the festive atmosphere. The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy local wines in a relaxed setting. Reviews are positive about the personalized experience and the chance to combine cultural sightseeing with wine tasting.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want to combine Christmas market visits with Alsace wine culture.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Tour in Colmar
When deciding which holiday experience to book, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you want a comprehensive cross-border adventure, the Christmas across the 3 borders or Across 3 Borders tours (see options) are ideal. For a cozy village-hopping experience, the Enchanting Christmas Experience offers a peaceful, scenic day. For shorter visits or guided walks focused on local secrets, the Magic Walking Tour is perfect.
Those traveling with family or groups who love interactive activities should consider the treasure hunts or track game options (see here, here). Budget-conscious travelers might prefer self-guided tours or shorter experiences, while wine enthusiasts should look at wine tasting tours (see here).
Be sure to book early, especially for popular tours, and check for availability on your preferred dates. Each experience offers a different way to enjoy Colmar’s magical Christmas atmosphere—pick the one that suits your style and make your holiday season truly memorable.
Final Thoughts
From cross-border excursions and scenic village explorations to intimate guided walks and fun treasure hunts, Colmar offers a diverse array of Christmas experiences. If you’re after a full-day adventure, the Christmas across the 3 borders or from Basel options deliver rich cultural insights and festive cheer. For those seeking a more relaxed, local feel, the Enchanting Christmas Experience or the walking tour provide personalized, intimate glimpses into Colmar’s holiday traditions.
For families or groups who love interactive fun, the treasure hunt or track game bring a playful edge to holiday sightseeing. And for independent travelers, self-guided options give you the freedom to explore at your own pace with expert tips.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you secure a spot in these popular tours. Whether you’re here for the glow of fairy lights, aromas of mulled wine, or cultural charm, Colmar’s Christmas season promises unforgettable memories.
