The magic of Christmas in Colmar

Colmar's Christmas markets are a showcase for the festive season, and have already won the title of best Christmas market in France. Colmar's Christmas markets sparkle with Christmas decorations and tableware, displaying the finest local crafts and smelling of cinnamon and other culinary spices.

In Colmar, there are actually six different markets, each with its own special features. Of course, it's easy to get from one to the other on foot and discover them all in the same day. You'll find :

• The Place des Dominicains market, a must-see because of its superb setting, where you'll find traditional decorations and original gift ideas.
• The market in Place de l'ancienne Douane, around the Schwendi fountain, where you'll find trendy creations and a host of traditional decorations.
• The indoor market at the Koïfhus (Place de l'Ancienne Douane but inside the building), dedicated to regional arts and crafts (master glassmakers, painters, woodcarvers, etc.).
• The children's Christmas market (but not the only one!) in Petite Venise (place des Six Montagnes Noires). You'll find merry-go-rounds, a few animals (sheep, rabbits and chickens) and Santa's letterbox.
• The Place Jeanne d'Arc Christmas market, dedicated to gastronomy and recreating a traditional Alsatian village.

The gourmet market in Place de la Cathédrale, where you can stock up on Alsatian specialities and watch culinary shows.

Colmar's Christmas markets are a great success. If you can, we advise you to visit them during the week to avoid the weekend crowds. The markets start on the last weekend of November and run until the end of December.

These are not confined to the Christmas markets, but adorn every façade in the historic centre. From the richly decorated Christmas trees to the garlands and lights that paint the city like a brush, highlighting the architectural details of the historic monuments, it's a marvellous sight to behold as soon as night falls!

As well as the six markets and the illuminations, the Place Rapp will be hosting a number of events including a temporary Christmas ice rink, a merry-go-round for children and a carousel-bar where you can enjoy a drink in an unusual setting!

And don't miss "Les enfants chantent Noël sur les barques", a children's choir on the famous boats of Little Venice: a magical break! And to help the little ones experience the magic of Christmas, head for the Little Venice Christmas market, with its merry-go-rounds and Santa's giant letterbox. All the children who post a letter will receive a reply, and those drawn at random will even get a present!

Colmar also organises special Christmas tours of the town. By day or by night, let yourself be guided through the historic centre of Colmar and enjoy the magical festive decor. Places are limited, and tours must be booked in advance. Further information from Colmar Tourist Office.

Alsace is renowned for its wines and gastronomy. During the Christmas period, all our senses are awakened in Colmar, a gourmet town par excellence. Fine wines and traditional flavours... Colmar honours the tradition that has made Alsace a gourmet region, and showcases local produce during the festive season.

The star of the Christmas markets is, of course, cinnamon mulled wine. Star anise, cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods and orange peel are infused into the red wine, which is served hot. Mulled wine can be enjoyed at any time of day, to help you forget the cold of winter and share a moment of conviviality!

Alsace has a wide variety of gingerbreads, made according to the traditional recipes of yesteryear: gingerbread tongues glazed with sugar or chocolate, soft gingerbread with local honey or gingerbread filled with chocolate or almond cream. Traditionally in Alsace, gingerbread adorned Christmas trees.

You'll also find a large number of traditional Christmas biscuits such as sprengerle (with aniseed) and, above all, bredele. These small cakes of various shapes are specific to the festive season and are part of the Alsatian identity. Cinnamon, chocolate, vanilla, almond, walnut, and many more... There's something for everyone!

Numerous charming hotels lurk around the bend in the streets of Colmar. Colmar is very popular during the Christmas period, so make sure you book your accommodation in advance!

Colmar is home to a large number of fine restaurants. To discover traditional specialities, head for Wistub Brenner, a cosy establishment serving fine Alsatian cuisine. For a traditional kouglof, head to the Maison alsacienne de biscuiterie.

Here, the advice is the same as for hotels: remember to book your table in advance, or eat at staggered hours.