We are staying in Colmar for four days in early December. What are the must sees besides the obvious museusms. Any thing special we should know about Christmas markets? We won't have a car, so we will travel by bus or train. We will probably try to see Riquewihr, but I don't think we will be able to do the whole route de Vin. It looks like transportation can be a problem over a Sunday and Monday and we will be there for both those days. Also, we know no French. Do people often speak English (we are hoping)?? Are there also brewery that are good?
Posted by
Boulder, CO, USA
719 posts
Don't know of anything special about the markets, but they're great, and you'll have a wonderful time in them. Try the gluwein, it's delicious. Travel into and out of Colmar by Train is pretty easy. You're right, the route de Vin is tough by public transport, but you can hit parts of it. Don't worry about the speaking french, as many in that town speak English (and German). You should make a point to learn the pleasantries, though (hello, thank you, good bye, Do you speak English?, please, etc.). This will go a long way with the french.
Posted by
Side Lake, MN, USA
129 posts
We just returned from a short trip to Colmar and the wine route but we had a car and able to see some of the villages including Kayzerburg and Riquewhir which were lovely. I noticed tour buses and that may a way for you to see the areas outside of Colmar. Just enjoy the Christmas markets; stroll and partake of their specialities. We have visited several of the German markets and they have a magic about them. You may think of renting a car for a few days just to be able to see the villages..it is worth it and just get a GPS!!! EuropeCar is usually very reasonable. Have a wonderful time and if you have a chance, visit BadenBaden and the Black Forest...amazing. We don't speak German or French but know the basics and remember, a smile goes a long way.
Posted by
Boulder, CO, USA
719 posts
"it's Vin Chaud, not gluehwein" Yep, a fair point. When I think of Christmas Markets, I always revert to German. With the strong German speaking presence in Colmar, you'll probably get by with either if you can only remember one. Or, simply, head the stand with the heated wine ;-)
Posted by
OP
Vancouver, Washington
54 posts
Thanks, everyone, for your comments. Joanne, did you rent the car after you arrived or ahead of time. We have thought about renting a car, also. I know a very small amount of German language, so hopefully I will be OK. I plan on learning at least a few words of french, also.