Morning: Arrive in Strasbourg and check into your hotel in the historic centre. Take a leisurely stroll to the iconic Place Broglie where the main Christmas market begins, admiring the giant Christmas tree and festive lights.
Afternoon: Explore the market stalls along Place Kléber and the charming Petite France quarter, sampling mulled wine, gingerbread, and regional cheeses. Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral for a quick view of its illuminated façade.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant near the river and end the night with a carriage ride through the illuminated streets, soaking in the magical atmosphere.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a regional TER train (≈30 min) from Strasbourg to Colmar. Begin at the Place de l'Université market, famous for its wooden chalet-style stalls and local crafts.
Afternoon: Wander to the Little Venice area and its nearby market at Place des Dominicains**, tasting the famous “kougelhopf” pastry. After lunch, hop on a short bus (Line 2) to the nearby villages of Eguisheim and Riquewihr, each offering intimate market squares.
Evening: Return to Colmar for a relaxed dinner by the canals, then catch the evening train back to Strasbourg.
Find HotelsMorning: Board a regional bus (line 215) to Obernai, a picturesque town with a delightful market set around the Place du Marché. Enjoy local wines and handcrafted ornaments.
Afternoon: After lunch, travel by taxi or rideshare to Riquewihr (≈20 km). The town’s market, nestled in the medieval streets, offers specialty foods like “bredeles” cookies and artisanal gifts.
Evening: Head back to Strasbourg via bus, stopping for a quick dinner in Haguenau if time allows, then unwind at your hotel.
Find HotelsMorning: Take an early TER train (≈1 h) to Mulhouse. Start at the vibrant Place du Marché market, known for its lively music and extensive food stalls.
Afternoon: Explore the nearby Cité de l’Automobile (optional, entry fee) or simply continue shopping for souvenirs. Have a final Alsatian lunch at a local brasserie.
Evening: Return to Strasbourg by train to collect your luggage and depart for the airport or onward journey.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, consider adding a day to explore the wine route in the Haut‑Alsace region, visiting vineyards in Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg. For a shorter trip, condense the itinerary to two days by focusing on Strasbourg and Colmar only, using early trains and skipping the Mulhouse leg. Dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and keep some cash on hand for market vendors who may not accept cards.