Alsace Christmas Markets Private Day Tour with Colmar from Strasbourg

Exploring Alsace’s Christmas Charm: A Deep Dive into the Private Day Tour from Strasbourg

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Alsace’s festive magic beyond Strasbourg’s famous Christmas market, this private full-day tour to Colmar and surrounding villages might catch your eye. It’s designed for those who want a tailored, relaxed way to soak in the region’s holiday cheer, with the bonus of personalized attention and flexibility.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines the fairy-tale feel of Colmar’s medieval streets with the cozy, atmospheric Christmas markets in smaller villages like Kaysersberg, Ribeauvillé, and Bergheim. Plus, the addition of wine tasting along the renowned Alsace Wine Route gives it a satisfying local flavor — literally.

However, it’s worth noting that, as with any winter excursion, weather can be unpredictable, and some parts of the itinerary might shift depending on conditions or the day’s schedule. Also, at a price of around $390 per person, it’s a bit on the higher side, but the private, customizable nature adds to the value for those seeking a more exclusive experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized introduction to the region’s Christmas season, especially if they value comfort, flexibility, and a touch of wine country flair. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and exploring.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You get a personal guide who adapts the day to your interests.
• Festive highlights: Explore Colmar’s enchanting Old Town and multiple Christmas markets.
• Wine tasting experience: Enjoy regional wines at a local winery along the Alsace Wine Route.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a recent, air-conditioned minivan, making the day relaxed.
• Flexible itinerary: Depending on the date, visit other charming villages like Eguisheim, Bergheim, or Riquewihr.
• Limited group size: With a maximum of 8 participants, it feels intimate and personal.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting your day with hotel pickup around 9:00 am, you’ll be whisked out of Strasbourg in a comfortable, modern vehicle. The drive itself is quite scenic, as you leave the city’s bustle behind and start to see the rolling countryside and vineyards transform into frosty winter scenes. This is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit early on.

Stop 1: Strasbourg to Colmar

Your guide will begin with a brief overview of what’s ahead, setting the tone for a festive day. The drive to Colmar takes about an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax and, perhaps, start imagining the fairy-tale sights awaiting you in this picture-perfect town.

Stop 2: Exploring Colmar’s Christmas Markets

Once in Colmar, the highlight is the guided walk through its Old Town. We loved the way the medieval buildings, with their brightly painted facades, make the Christmas lights sparkle even more. The markets spread across the historic center, each with its own character, offering handmade crafts, regional treats, and holiday decorations.

One reviewer mentioned, “The town of Colmar & visit the Christmas Market,” which is exactly what this tour aims for. You’ll get roughly 1.5 hours here to browse and soak up the atmosphere.

Stop 3: Lunch and Free Time

After the markets, you’re free to explore and find a local spot for lunch — though this isn’t included in the price. Many visitors find this a good chance to try regional specialties or a cozy café. It’s worth planning ahead because some of the best experiences come from wandering the streets and discovering hidden gems.

Stop 4: Villages and Christmas Markets Along the Wine Route

Post-lunch, the day’s focus shifts to the picturesque villages along the Alsace Wine Route. The itinerary varies depending on the date, but you might visit Eguisheim or Bergheim, both known for their festive markets and medieval charm. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to see the Christmas market in Riquewihr or Kaysersberg, which many reviews describe as utterly enchanting.

One traveler shared, “The afternoon program will depend on the date of your tour,” which underscores the flexible nature of this experience. The highlight here is the chance to enjoy the beautifully decorated streets and possibly some local souvenirs.

Wine Tasting in the Vineyards

No trip to Alsace is complete without tasting its wines. You’ll stop at a winery along the route for a tasting session, giving you a taste of the region’s famed Gewürztraminer, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. While the tasting is at your own expense, many find the experience adds a lovely, authentic touch to the day.

Return to Strasbourg

Your day wraps up with a comfortable drive back, arriving in Strasbourg in the late afternoon or early evening. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with memorable sights, sounds, and tastes of Alsace’s holiday season.

What the Reviews Say – Authentic Experiences

Most travelers seem to leave with positive impressions. One reviewer raved, “Desde el primer momento que nos recoge el guía en nuestro hotel de Estrasburgo todo fue estupendo,” praising their guide Jerome for professionalism and respectfulness. Another mentioned that Miriam, the guide who spoke Spanish fluently, was “encantadora y servicial,” especially helpful if you’re traveling with kids or prefer explanations in your language.

Of course, not everyone had a smooth experience. One guest expressed disappointment about the lack of schedule transparency, feeling the guide expected French-speaking travelers, which might have led to some communication gaps. It’s a reminder that, despite the private setup, it’s worth clarifying expectations beforehand.

Price and Value

At around $391 per person, this private tour is definitely a splurge, but considering the personalized attention, private transport, and flexible itinerary, many find it worthwhile. You’re paying for a curated experience that avoids the often crowded, commercial feel of larger group tours. This is especially valuable if you want to explore at your own pace, have tailored stops, and enjoy wine tastings in a relaxed environment.

The fact that it’s booked well in advance (about 57 days on average) suggests many travelers see it as an essential way to enjoy the region’s festive season comfortably and privately. The small group size means you’ll get more personalized insights and be able to ask questions freely.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book early: The tour is popular, especially during the Christmas season.
• Be prepared for weather: Alsace in winter can be chilly and unpredictable; dress warmly and in layers.
• Budget for extras: Lunch and wine tastings are at your own expense, so plan accordingly.
• Communicate your needs: If you have language preferences or specific interests, it’s worth mentioning when booking to ensure a guide best suited to your needs.
• Expect some flexibility: The itinerary may change depending on weather or the day’s schedule, so keep an open mind.

The Sum Up

This Alsace Christmas Markets Private Day Tour from Strasbourg offers a warm, personalized way to experience the region’s holiday charm. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, tailored itineraries, and a touch of regional wine culture, all wrapped in the festive atmosphere of Alsace’s medieval towns and villages.

While it’s on the pricier side, the private setting, flexible stops, and opportunity to enjoy the season without the crowds make it worthwhile for many. Just remember that weather and schedule changes are possible, so flexibility will enhance your experience. For those wanting a curated, intimate day exploring Alsace’s Christmas magic, this tour could be just the ticket.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is generally flexible and can accommodate children, especially since some guides, like Miriam, are praised for their friendliness and flexibility. However, the full-day nature, walking around multiple markets, and wine tasting might be more enjoyable for older children or teens.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is operated in English by default, but other languages can be requested. Some guides speak Spanish fluently, making the experience more accessible for non-English speakers.

How long is the drive from Strasbourg to Colmar?
It takes approximately an hour to reach Colmar by private vehicle, giving you a scenic start to the day’s festivities.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes. The afternoon stops depend on the date, but the tour offers a degree of flexibility to include other villages or attractions depending on what’s open and your interests.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation in a recent, comfortable minivan, a guide, and visits to Christmas markets in Colmar and nearby villages.

Are meals included?
No, meals are at your own expense, but the tour offers ample free time to enjoy local restaurants or cafes.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour requires at least two adults to operate, with a maximum of eight people for a more intimate experience.

What should I wear?
Expect winter weather; dress warmly, with comfortable shoes for walking around snowy or icy streets.

This tour offers a cozy, scenic, and culturally rich way to celebrate Alsace’s holiday season, perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch to their Christmas travel adventures.