From Paris: Colmar Christmas Market & City Tour in 2 days

Exploring the Enchanting Christmas Charm of Colmar in Two Days from Paris

This two-day tour offers a cozy escape from Paris, whisking you to the fairy-tale town of Colmar, famed for its stunning medieval architecture and lively Christmas markets. As someone who appreciates thoughtful, well-organized trips, I find the small group size—limited to just seven travelers—adds a significant plus, ensuring personal attention in a comfortable, intimate setting. The highlight? The chance to stroll through cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and twinkling lights, all set against a backdrop that feels straight out of a holiday postcard.

What really stands out is the scenic drive through the French countryside, offering a pleasant break and beautiful views, and the chance to explore Colmar’s heart at your own pace. The markets are renowned for their artisanal crafts and festive atmosphere, making them perfect for picking up unique gifts. Plus, the luxurious minivan makes traveling between stops smooth and relaxing. Of course, the cost—$626 per person—might seem steep at first glance, but it covers transportation, expert guides, and exclusive tastings, making it a good value for those wanting an immersive, hassle-free holiday experience.

One potential drawback? The tour’s packed schedule leaves little room for downtime, so if you’re after a more leisurely, unstructured visit, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for travelers eager to see a picture-perfect Alsace during its most festive season, this tour delivers a memorable dose of holiday cheer, scenic beauty, and cultural richness.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Luxury minivan provides a comfortable ride through the scenic French countryside.
• Enthusiastic guides lead you through the Christmas markets and historic sites, often sharing insider tips.
• Flexible itinerary allows for self-paced exploration—shops, tastings, and sightseeing as you wish.
• Champagne tastings and regional foods add a luxurious touch to the experience.
• Perfect for holiday lovers who want a festive, scenic escape without the hassle of planning every detail.

Scenic Drive Through the French Countryside

The journey begins with a comfortable pick-up at Boulevard de Bercy, Paris, and then it’s off in a sleek, luxury minivan. The drive itself is part of the charm—rolling hills, forests, and quaint villages flit past your window, framing the start of your holiday adventure. The small group size makes the drive feel more like traveling with friends rather than a crowded tour bus.

Traveling in a vehicle designed for just seven passengers means you can enjoy conversations, ask questions freely, and benefit from the attention of your guide, who is fluent in multiple languages—English, French, Italian, Moldavian, and Romanian. The three main stops during the journey are thoughtfully scheduled, balancing travel time with sightseeing and free exploration.

Exploring Colmar’s Old Town and Vieux Colmar

Once in Colmar, the tour spends about four hours in the Old Town, which is enough to soak in the charm without feeling rushed. You’ll wander through narrow, cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, many decorated with holiday wreaths and twinkling lights. The Christmas market here is a highlight—imagine stalls bursting with artisanal crafts, regional food, and mulled wine. One reviewer particularly appreciated the guided tour of Vieux Colmar, where a local guide shares stories about the architecture and history, adding context to the sights.

Expect to find regional delicacies, from spritzes of champagne at renowned houses to food tastings that showcase Alsace’s culinary flair. The markets are known for their beautifully decorated stalls and lively atmosphere, which is part of what makes this trip memorable.

During your free time, you might opt to visit small shops selling crafted ornaments or enjoy tasting local wines—if you’re a fan of bubbly, the trip includes options for champagne tastings from famous houses.

Visiting Little Venice and Hidden Gems

Another highlight is the guided walk through Vieux Colmar, often nicknamed “Little Venice” because of its tranquil canals and picturesque scenery. The eight hours allocated here ensure you get a good sense of the town’s layered history and vibrant holiday spirit. Many reviews mention how beautiful Colmar looks lit up at night—this is when the town truly seems to shimmer with holiday magic.

The tour’s flexible approach means you can choose to shop, take photos, or simply soak in the ambiance. The guided tour adds an educational touch, revealing stories behind the architecture and traditions.

The Return Journey and Practical Details

After your explorations, the trip circles back in the same luxurious minivan, making the return to Paris comfortable and relaxed. The entire experience is designed to leave you with a sense of festive cheer and a handful of memorable sights and tastes.

Transportation, especially in a small, well-equipped vehicle, is a key advantage here—your group stays cozy, and the logistics are handled seamlessly. If you’re craving a stress-free, well-organized holiday getaway, this tour offers excellent value, particularly for those who want to avoid the hassle of train schedules or car rentals.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to travelers who value comfort and personalized attention, love Christmas markets, and want a scenic yet manageable trip from Paris. It’s ideal if you’re not looking for a jam-packed schedule but prefer a balance of guided activities and free time. The small group format fosters a friendly environment, perfect for couples, small families, or solo travelers wanting to meet like-minded holiday enthusiasts.

However, it might not suit those with mobility issues or anyone seeking a very leisurely, unstructured visit. The fast-paced nature, including walking and shopping, requires moderate mobility and enthusiasm for exploring.

Price and Value Analysis

At $626 per person, this trip covers transportation, expert guides, tastings, and some personalized touches, making it a reasonable investment for a complete, hassle-free holiday experience. You won’t have to worry about booking hotels or navigating public transport—these are optional extras. The guide’s local knowledge and the inclusion of champagne tastings add luxury touches that elevate the value.

Keep in mind, accommodations are not included, but the tour organizers can help arrange a hotel, which could add to the overall trip cost. Still, for the convenience and special experiences packed into just two days, many travelers find this price fair.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re craving a festive escape with scenic views, delicious regional foods, and Christmas cheer, then this 2-day tour to Colmar from Paris really hits the spot. It’s perfect for those who want a luxurious, guided experience that takes the stress out of traveling during the busy holiday season. The small group size and flexible schedule make it ideal for intimate travelers seeking authentic moments and memorable sights.

For anyone who loves picturesque towns, festive markets, and regional wines, this tour offers a well-balanced, thoughtful blend of guided exploration and personal freedom. While it’s not suited for travelers with major mobility concerns or those wanting a slower, more relaxed pace, it delivers a lively, joyful taste of Alsace’s Christmas magic—without the hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Paris to Colmar?
The journey in the luxury minivan takes around 6 hours each way, with stops for sightseeing and rest along the way.

Is accommodations included in the trip?
No, accommodations are not included. The tour organizers can assist in booking hotels in the region if needed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included, but you’ll have opportunities to enjoy regional foods and tastings during the stops.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour offers a customizable itinerary, allowing you to focus on shopping, tasting, or sightseeing.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Italian, Moldavian, and Romanian.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old and not recommended for people with limited mobility or wheelchairs.

Are pick-up and drop-off services available outside Paris?
Yes, additional charges apply for pick-up/drop-off from Versailles, Disneyland Paris, CDG/Orly Airport, or your hotel.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, cash, and personal medications are recommended.

When is the Christmas Market open?
From November 26 to December 29, after which the tour will focus on other city walks if the markets are closed.

In all, this two-day Colmar Christmas Market experience offers a cozy, scenic, and festive way to celebrate the season—especially if you prefer small groups and thoughtful itineraries. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine holiday cheer with cultural charm, all just a short trip from Paris.