Colmar vs Strasbourg: Christmas Market Showdown
“I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. ”
Colmar and Strasbourg—two cities in France’s Alsace region that are famous for Christmas. Tucked in the northeast, right near the German border, this area has a mix of French and German influences that makes it extra magical during the holidays. Both cities are full of charm, twinkling lights, and festive traditions that people travel from all over Europe (and beyond) to experience.
If you’re wondering where the real Christmas spirit comes alive, you’re not alone. In Colmar, it honestly feels like stepping into a little Christmas village. The half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and cozy market stalls look like something out of a storybook. Strasbourg, on the other hand, proudly calls itself the “Capital of Christmas”—and it shows. With its huge Christmas tree, endless decorations, and the oldest Christmas market in France, it definitely makes a strong case.
And if you don’t have time to visit both, I get it. Sometimes you’re just passing through or squeezing in a festive weekend, and you want to know which one’s worth it. So grab your scarf, warm up your hands around a steaming mug, and let’s wander through these two festive wonderlands to see which one really steals the show for the ultimate Christmas market experience.
OK, ready? Here’s all you need to know about the differences and similarities between Colmar and Strasbourg, and where you should go:
Why Should I Spend Christmas In The Alsace Region?
With so many Christmas markets across Europe, you might wonder—why pick Alsace? The simple answer: it just feels different here. This region has a way of blending tradition and magic that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into a Christmas card.
Towns like Colmar and Strasbourg go all out during the holidays. The streets sparkle with lights, every corner smells of mulled wine and gingerbread, and the half-timbered houses look like they were made for the season. What makes Alsace extra special is how much it leans into tradition. The markets here aren’t just about shopping—they’re about keeping old customs alive, from festive food to handmade decorations.
Add in the mix of French and German influences, the cozy atmosphere, and that feeling you only get when everyone around you is in the holiday spirit, and you’ve got something really unique. If you’re planning a Christmas trip to Europe, Alsace should definitely be high on your list.
What Makes Colmar's Market So Special?
Colmar is small, and that’s exactly what makes it so charming at Christmas. The whole town center feels like a storybook village that’s come to life. You’ll see rows of half-timbered houses painted in soft pastels, each one decorated with wreaths, lights, and festive displays in the windows. Walking through the streets feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into a Christmas fairy tale.
Because Colmar is compact, you can explore it all on foot without ever feeling overwhelmed. One minute you’re crossing a little stone bridge over the canal, the next you’re in a square buzzing with wooden market stalls. Everything flows together so naturally that you don’t even notice how much ground you’ve covered—you’re just happily wandering from one picture-perfect scene to the next.
The town’s size also adds to the atmosphere. Instead of being swallowed up by a massive city, you feel wrapped in something cozy and intimate, where every corner seems to have its own sparkle. At night, when the buildings glow under strings of lights and the reflections dance on the water, it really does feel like a scene pulled straight out of a holiday story.
And Colmar has a fun claim to fame too—many say it inspired the village in Beauty and the Beast. Once you see it in person, especially during the holidays, you’ll understand why. There’s a fairytale feeling around every corner, and the Christmas markets just make it even more magical.
Strasbourg's Claim to Christmas Fame
Now let’s head over to Strasbourg, famously called the “Capital of Christmas.” Unlike Colmar, Strasbourg is a full-on city, so it doesn’t have that storybook village feel—but the architecture is stunning, and there’s still plenty to see and enjoy. During the holidays, the city lights up with one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe, and there are markets scattered all over, each with its own charm and unique finds.
The main highlight is Place Kléber, home to a massive Christmas tree covered in thousands of twinkling lights. Just nearby, the cathedral towers above the city, providing a dramatic, historic backdrop for the holiday festivities. Everywhere you go, you’ll find little touches of magic—street performers, festive food, and stalls packed with handmade decorations and gifts.
Because Strasbourg is bigger than Colmar, exploring it feels like more of a city adventure. You might wander from one market to the next, taking in the gorgeous buildings, festive displays, and cheerful atmosphere along the way. It may not be a tiny fairy-tale village, but the combination of history, architecture, and holiday spirit makes Strasbourg a strong contender for anyone deciding which Alsace city to visit for Christmas.
The Verdict: Colmar's Cosy Charms vs Strasbourg's Grandeur
So, which Christmas market takes the spotlight? Colmar, with its cozy, intimate streets that feel straight out of a holiday storybook, or Strasbourg, filled with grand architecture and history at every turn?
If you have the chance to explore both, it’s worth experiencing each city’s unique charm. A day spent wandering Colmar’s markets is like stepping into a cozy Yuletide wonderland. Strasbourg, on the other hand, offers a bigger city experience—there’s plenty to do beyond the markets, from visiting the stunning cathedral and exploring the historic streets to taking a boat tour along the canals. If you’re looking for a Christmas trip that’s part city adventure, Strasbourg has it all, but to really do it justice and enjoy the markets properly, you’ll want at least two full days. Colmar, by contrast, is compact and easy—you can see it all comfortably in a single day.
But if time allows for only one stop, I personally lean toward Colmar. While both cities are magical, Colmar’s fairytale-like streets and peaceful ambiance make it stand out. Strasbourg, especially in the afternoons and evenings, can get crowded, which sometimes makes it harder to enjoy the markets fully. Colmar, by contrast, keeps a relaxed, storybook vibe that feels truly special.
In my experience, Colmar offers the most authentic, delightful, and peaceful Christmas market experience in Alsace—perfect if you’re chasing that classic holiday charm.
Hotel Recommendation: Where To Stay In Colmar?
During my time in Colmar, I chose to stay at the charming Maison Des Tetes hotel, and it really exceeded my expectations. Even though the rooms were small, they provided a warm ambiance and an overall cozy feeling. The restaurant serves a variety of local dishes in a traditional setting.
Also, the hotel is located right in the center of town, so visiting the Christmas Markets was a breeze. Having their own parking lot also made it easy if you’re traveling to Colmar by car. In general, the hotel had a friendly and inviting atmosphere that matched the charming atmosphere of Colmar perfectly.
Hotel Recommendation: Where To Stay In Strasbourg?
While in Strasbourg, I had the pleasure of staying at the renowned Hotel Cour Du Corbeau. This place has quite the reputation, and rightfully so! Nestled perfectly opposite the Christmas markets but across the water, it's like your secret getaway from the bustling crowds. The hotel's fame stems from its original 1600 architecture and strategic location, offering a serene historical retreat while still being close enough to soak in the festive vibe. The rooms are spacious and cozy – a true haven after a day of exploring. Plus, they offer valet parking, making it hassle-free if you're exploring the region by car.
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy travels!
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