Strasbourg and Colmar 3-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Strasbourg

Board a high-speed TGV train from Paris Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg.

Enjoy the scenic French countryside as you head towards Alsace.

Book train tickets in advance, especially for Christmas Eve travel. Consider an early morning departure to maximize your time in Strasbourg.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel and drop off your luggage, then head out to explore the city.

Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile is a luxury option. Consider other hotels if you prefer a different price range.

Strasbourg Cathedral Visit

Visit the magnificent Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Climb to the platform for panoramic city views (check Christmas Eve opening hours).

Entry to the cathedral is free, but there's a fee to climb the tower. Check for special Christmas Eve mass schedules. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187075-d192297-Reviews-Cathedrale_Notre_Dame_de_Strasbourg-Strasbourg_Bas_Rhin_Grand_Est.html?m=66827

Alsatian Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Alsatian lunch.

Try local specialties like Tarte Flambée or Choucroute Garni. Many restaurants will offer special Christmas Eve menus.

Make a reservation for lunch, especially on Christmas Eve, as many places will be busy or have limited seating.

Explore La Petite France

Wander through the picturesque La Petite France quarter, with its half-timbered houses, canals, and charming bridges. Perfect for photography.

This historic neighborhood is exceptionally beautiful during the Christmas season with festive decorations. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187075-d195748-Reviews-La_Petite_France-Strasbourg_Bas_Rhin_Grand_Est.html?m=66827

Strasbourg Christmas Market Atmosphere

While many stalls might close early on Christmas Eve, experience the magical atmosphere and festive lights of Strasbourg, 'Capital of Christmas'. Enjoy a warm drink.

Check official opening hours for specific markets closer to the date, as they often close early or entirely on Dec 24th/25th. Focus on the general festive decorations. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187075-d10387470-Reviews-Centre_Ville_de_Strasbourg-Strasbourg_Bas_Rhin_Grand_Est.html?m=66827

Christmas Eve Dinner

Enjoy a special Christmas Eve dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant.

Reservations are essential.

Many restaurants offer fixed-price menus for Christmas Eve. Book well in advance!

Christmas Morning Stroll

Enjoy a peaceful Christmas morning walk through Strasbourg's beautifully decorated streets.

Many shops and museums will be closed, offering a unique quiet charm for photography.

Take this opportunity to see the city in a different light without the usual crowds. Focus on architectural details and holiday decorations.

Festive Christmas Brunch

Indulge in a special Christmas brunch at a hotel or a restaurant known for holiday offerings.

Book in advance.

Many hotels offer Christmas Day brunch. This is a good option when most other dining establishments might be closed.

Train to Colmar

Take a regional train from Strasbourg to the charming town of Colmar.

The journey is short and scenic.

Trains run frequently between Strasbourg and Colmar. Tickets can usually be bought on the day, but consider booking if traveling with specific schedules.

Check into Colmar Hotel

Arrive in Colmar and check into your accommodation.

Refresh before exploring the festive town.

Colmar Hotel is a well-rated mid-range option near the station, perfect for exploring. Ensure your hotel is open for check-in on Christmas Day.

Colmar's Little Venice & Lights

Explore the enchanting La Petite Venise quarter in Colmar.

On Christmas Day, the focus will be on the stunning decorations and illuminated streets, perfect for evening photography.

Colmar is particularly magical during Christmas. The lights and festive displays will be a highlight, especially as dusk falls.

Christmas Dinner in Colmar

Enjoy a festive Christmas dinner.

Finding an open restaurant might require advance research and booking. Look for hotels or traditional brasseries offering holiday menus.

Reservations for Christmas Day dinner are absolutely essential. Research restaurants offering special holiday menus.

Colmar Historical Center Walk

Explore Colmar's charming historical center.

Visit Rue des Têtes, the Old Customs House (Koïfhus), and the Collégiale Saint-Martin. Admire the unique architecture.

This area is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and picturesque streets.

Musée Unterlinden Visit

Visit the Musée Unterlinden, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and a collection of Rhenish art, archeology, and modern art.

Check for Boxing Day opening hours.

Verify opening hours for December 26th, as some museums may have reduced hours or be closed after Christmas Day.

Choco-Story Colmar

Immerse yourself in the world of chocolate at Choco-Story Colmar, offering a delicious and educational experience.

A perfect warm indoor activity for after Christmas.

Great for chocolate lovers! Check their specific opening hours for December 26th. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187073-d19501956-Reviews-Choco_Story_COLMAR-Colmar_Haut_Rhin_Grand_Est.html?m=66827

Farewell Alsatian Lunch

Enjoy a final Alsatian meal in Colmar before your departure.

Consider a cozy cafe or a traditional Winstub.

Try another local specialty or simply savor the charming atmosphere.

Return to Paris

Take a high-speed train from Colmar back to Paris, either directly or with a connection in Strasbourg.

Book your return train ticket in advance for the best prices and availability.