I’m visiting friends and family the second week of December in Germany. I’m all about a Christmas market and was wondering which city people would suggest out of Colmar or Strasbourg. Looking for a real classic feel to the market though I know both are going to see plenty of tourists.
Strasbourg is going to be a bit easier to get to by train, but we do have access to my local friend who is willing to drive to either. We are only going for the day, so I’m sure I won’t get to see everything in town (that’s okay).
Posted by
Boston
328 posts
The market in Strasbourg is bigger but I like the atmosphere in Colmar better. Honestly? I don't think you can go wrong with either. They're both magical. I'd vote for whichever is easier fory our friend who's driving.
Parking in Strasbourg is a pain in the patoot, but Colmar is only marginally better. I'd let your friend who's driving decide. He/she may have a strong preference.
Posted by
SoCal
1983 posts
We stayed in Strasbourg for a week and found parking to be pretty readily available using garages. This was early August. Perhaps it's worse near Christmas. Parking costs in garages averaged about 22 euros per day.
Posted by
41 posts
Colmar or Strasbourg during Christmas Market Season?
Yes.
Posted by
Boston
328 posts
jphbucks, the parking situation in both Colmar and Strasbourg is really difficult during the Christmas markets. In fact, I can't speak to what it is at other times, as I've only been to both during the markets. But you couldn't pay me to drive to either during the Christmas season.
Posted by
Los Angeles
5261 posts
Strasbourg is really packed with markets (plural), one after another. People too.
Happy holidays!
Posted by
Vermont
11 posts
I love Strasbourg! But Colmar wasn’t a favorite in any way so will never return there.
Posted by
Boston
328 posts
Suki, I’m just curious. Did you dislike Colmar at Christmas or was it another time of year. What did you dislike? I can’t imagine, so really, I’m only curious.
Posted by
Chicagoland
1105 posts
Not helpful to the poster, but I spent a week in Colmar 3 years ago and loved it.