Strasbourg and Colmar Express: the magic of Christmas markets, fine wines, and relaxation

Round-trip flights are not included in the package, so you can choose where and when you'd like to fly from. Check-in and the welcome meeting will take place at our accommodation.

We’ll start our adventure by getting to know one another – the perfect way to set the tone for the days ahead. What better introduction than an authentic Alsatian aperitif? We’ll share a glass of fine local wine, accompanied by a selection of delicious regional cheeses.

Alsace is renowned as France’s most important wine region for white varieties such as Gewürztraminer and Riesling, alongside elegant reds like Pinot Noir. It’s the ideal beginning to our journey through the flavours and traditions of this enchanting region.

After a breakfast of freshly baked petit pain au chocolat, we’ll set off from our accommodation towards Strasbourg, where we’ll spend our second day together. Known proudly as the Capital of Christmas, this city certainly lives up to its reputation – every street corner sparkles with festive decorations.

We’ll explore Strasbourg’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also called La Grande Île (“the Large Island”) because it is encircled by canals. Highlights include the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, considered the oldest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the charming district of Petite France. With its half-timbered houses, sloping roofs, cobblestone streets and bridges overlooking flower-decked canals, it’s one of the city’s most picturesque neighbourhoods – a truly postcard-perfect setting.

To see Strasbourg from a different angle, we’ll board a boat for a scenic cruise along the waterways. Our day will end by immersing ourselves in the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets – wandering among the stalls, soaking up the lights and decorations, and indulging in mulled wine and spiced cinnamon biscuits.

This morning, after collecting our rental car, we’ll set off for Eguisheim, a fairytale village proudly listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. With its winding streets, enchanting corners, and atmospheric wine cellars, it feels as though time has stood still. Here, you can taste and purchase local wines while soaking up the charm of days gone by.

Our journey continues to Colmar, a town that looks like it has stepped straight out of a storybook. Colourful half-timbered houses, lively little squares, and beautifully decorated buildings create a setting that is nothing short of magical. The best way to discover Colmar is to simply wander – past medieval houses that remain intact, artisan workshops, and inviting shops where you can sample Alsatian delicacies.

One of Colmar’s most iconic spots awaits: Petite Venise, the picture-perfect quarter of the historic centre along the Lauch River. From the Rue Turenne Bridge, the view of pastel half-timbered houses mirrored in the water, with boats gliding past, is like stepping into a postcard.

As night falls, Colmar takes on an even more enchanting atmosphere. Festively decorated buildings are transformed by lights, creating a spectacular stage-like setting. The town’s renowned light show illuminates monuments, canals, and façades, giving evening strolls a magical allure.

We’ll round off the evening in one of Colmar’s celebrated pubs, savouring Alsatian specialities and enjoying live music – the perfect way to end an unforgettable day.

After a sweet French breakfast, we’ll drive to one of the most famous castles in France: the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. This emblematic site of Alsace’s cultural and tourist heritage is a superb example of a late 15th-century mountain fortress. Perched 757 metres above sea level, it offers breathtaking views across the entire region – and if we’re lucky, a dusting of snow will make the scene even more magical.

In the afternoon, our Happy Hour takes us to one of the oldest Alsatian wine cellars, where we’ll uncover the secrets of local winemaking. We’ll tour the production area before enjoying a tasting of the region’s most renowned varieties, including Gewürztraminer and Riesling.

AAfter a quick lunch, we’ll continue our journey through three of Alsace’s most enchanting towns. In Riquewihr, whose medieval streets inspired the setting for Beauty and the Beast, we’ll wander among colourful half-timbered houses and artisan shops. We’ll then explore Ribeauvillé, known as the “Town of Minstrels”, with its charming medieval character, before heading to Kaysersberg, famous for its gabled half-timbered houses and delightful little shops. The air is filled with the aromas of mulled wine and cinnamon – an irresistible invitation to slow down and savour the moment.

To end the afternoon, we’ll indulge in some well-deserved relaxation at a traditional Alsatian spa, where warmth, serenity, and stunning views over the vineyards provide the perfect contrast to the winter chill outside.

As our journey through Alsace draws to a close, we’ll come together for a farewell evening. Over a traditional tarte flambée dinner, and perhaps a final stroll to experience the region’s nightlife, we’ll celebrate the memories of this magical trip.

Depending on our departure time, we’ll still have the chance to enjoy a final French breakfast with a few sweet treats before it’s time to say our farewells. With hugs and goodbyes, we’ll part ways – until our next adventure together. See you soon, WeRoaders!