Strasbourg 7-Hour Christmas Markets Tour

Strasbourg 7-Hour Christmas Markets Tour Review

Exploring Strasbourg’s festive atmosphere through a guided tour of Alsace’s renowned Christmas markets offers an authentic taste of holiday cheer. Although we haven’t experienced this tour firsthand, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a vivid picture of a well-organized, enchanting day in some of France’s most picturesque villages.

What draws us most are the expertly curated visits to Colmar’s historic market, the chance to see multiple traditional villages, and the scenic drive along the famous Alsace Wine Route. But, as with any guided experience, timing and group size are important considerations—this tour is limited to just eight participants, making it a more intimate way to soak up the festive spirit. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration, charming scenery, and holiday shopping without the hassle of planning it all independently.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Intimate small group experience with a maximum of 8 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Visits to multiple Christmas markets offer a variety of crafts, foods, and festive atmospheres.
• Comfortable transportation in a fully-equipped minivan simplifies the day’s logistics.
• Scenic drive through Alsace villages showcases stunning architecture and landscapes.
• Flexible afternoon options depending on the date, including Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Obernai, or Bergheim.
• Good value for money considering transportation, expert guiding, and multiple market visits.

Overall Experience and First Impressions

This tour promises a cozy, festive day—covering some of the best Christmas markets in Alsace, all wrapped into a manageable seven-hour window. The tour starts bright and early from 17 Pl. de la Cathédrale in Strasbourg, and from there, it’s a smooth ride in a comfortable van. The small group size, capped at eight, is a major plus, fostering a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere—perfect if you want to ask questions and get personalized insights from your guide.

The guided aspect is crucial here. Your driver/guide, Gérôme, comes highly recommended—reviewers note his punctuality, professionalism, and capacity to explain in French even when the tour is in English, which adds a touch of local authenticity.

The Itinerary in Detail

Strasbourg to Colmar – The Gateway to Holiday Magic

The day kicks off with a roughly one-hour drive from Strasbourg to Colmar. As you arrive, you’ll immediately get a sense of the picture-postcard charm that makes Alsace Christmas markets so popular. Colmar’s town center, a UNESCO-listed site, transforms into an open-air winter wonderland with centuries-old architecture beautifully illuminated. The holiday lights are carefully designed to highlight the heritage buildings, creating a scene that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Colmar’s Arts & Crafts Market

Once in town, you’ll enjoy about an hour exploring the arts and crafts markets. Expect to see stalls brimming with handmade decorations, local foods, and artisan crafts—perfect for holiday gifts or keepsakes. One reviewer noted the “very good value for money” and praised the guide Gérôme for his explanations, making the visit informative without feeling rushed.

Village Visits and Market Hopping

After a brief drive (about 20 minutes), the tour visits a traditional village with its own arts and crafts market, lasting roughly 40 minutes. These villages, with their quaint streets and timbered houses, burst with seasonal decorations and local cheer. You might find yourself drawn into artisans’ workshops or sampling regional treats.

Following a quick 15-minute drive, you’ll arrive at another traditional village, where you have about an hour of free time. This break offers the chance to roam, shop, or simply soak up the festive ambiance at your own pace. Reviewers appreciated the balance of guided commentary and free exploration, saying the guides knew how to keep the experience lively and engaging.

The final stops include a visit to either Obernai or Bergheim—both charming towns—where markets are lively and full of seasonal delights. On certain dates, the tour extends into the historic markets of Riquewihr or Ribeauvillé, both famed for their medieval charm and vibrant holiday scenes.

Scenic Drive through the Alsace Wine Route

One of the standout features of this tour is the scenic drive along the Alsace Wine Route. Passing through picturesque villages with half-timbered houses and vineyards, you’ll get a taste of the region’s famed wine culture—an extra treat for wine lovers. Several reviews highlight the stunning views and the opportunity to appreciate the region’s architectural beauty.

Return to Strasbourg

The day wraps up with a drive back to Strasbourg, arriving just outside the Grande-Ile district. The whole experience gives a well-rounded perspective on both the holiday markets and the stunning scenery of the Alsace region.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $164 per person includes transportation, visits to all considered markets, and an experienced English-speaking guide. While it doesn’t cover meals, drinks, or entrance fees to attractions, the value lies in the convenience, expert guidance, and multiple market stops. The small group format ensures you’re not lost among crowds, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions or take photos without feeling rushed.

The tour’s duration of 7 hours makes it suitable for a day trip, especially if you’re staying in Strasbourg or nearby. It operates rain or shine, so don’t forget your umbrella or warm coat. The pickup point in front of Strasbourg Tourism Office is easy to find, and the guide will hold a sign with the tour name and company logo.

What Reviewers Say

Many reviewers appreciated the professionalism of Gérôme, emphasizing his punctuality and friendly attitude. A traveler from Italy called it “very good value for money,” while others highlighted the “magical moments” created by the beautifully decorated markets and the guide’s explanations, sometimes in French. One guest even mentioned how the guide’s bilingual ability made the experience especially personable.

A common theme across reviews is the enjoyment of the stunning village views and excellent regional wines—these elements significantly enhance the experience, especially if you enjoy tasting local products or simply taking in scenic vistas.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxed, guided day exploring multiple markets without the hassle of logistics. It suits visitors interested in regional architecture, local crafts, and seasonal foods. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate setting will especially appreciate the small-group format.

If you’re a fan of holiday markets, scenic drives, and regional wines, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture and picturesque sightseeing. Keep in mind that it’s not wheelchair accessible and children under four are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Strasbourg 7-Hour Christmas Markets Tour offers an excellent way to experience the festive spirit of Alsace’s holiday season. Its highlight is the combination of beautifully decorated markets, scenic drives, and expert guiding—all within a manageable day. The small group size and multiple stops make it a great choice for travelers seeking intimacy and authenticity.

While it doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, the value lies in the convenience, personalized attention, and the chance to see Colmar and other charming villages without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple transport connections. This tour is best suited for lovers of holiday markets, regional culture, and scenic landscapes who want a memorable, well-organized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 4 years old are not allowed on this tour.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a passport or ID card are recommended. Prepare for the weather with appropriate clothing, especially if rain or cold.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the activity operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What is included in the price?
Visits to the Christmas markets in Colmar and local villages, transportation in a fully-equipped minivan, and an English-speaking driver/guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to purchase local foods during the stops.

Can I modify the itinerary based on the date?
Yes, the afternoon stops depend on the tour date, with options including Obernai, Bergheim, Riquewihr, or Ribeauvillé.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the drive from Strasbourg to Colmar?
The drive takes approximately one hour each way.

What makes this tour a good value?
Considering transportation, multiple market visits, and guided commentary, it offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to experience Alsace’s Christmas festivities without the stress of self-planning.

This guided tour combines the best of Alsace’s holiday markets with scenic charm, expert guidance, and a cozy small-group setting. Whether you’re after holiday shopping, cultural sights, or simply soaking up the festive ambiance, this experience delivers a memorable taste of Alsace’s Christmas magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: