The Colmar Christmas Market, the Private Way: Little Venice from Dawn to Dusk

Several markets in one old town

In Colmar, Christmas comes as several markets spread across the historic centre: Place des Dominicains, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Place Jeanne-d’Arc, Little Venice and the inside of the Koifhus, the old customs house, devoted to artisans. In 2026 the markets open from 23 November to 29 December; the gourmet market and the Place Rapp big wheel continue until 3 January 2027. From 27 November to 20 December, Christmas shuttles link the town with the neighbouring villages.

What the private way adds

Chosen hours

In the morning, Little Venice still belongs to the locals. It is the time for photographs, a walk along the Lauch and the first markets. In the evening, we favour the illuminations seen from a reserved table or during a short guided walk.

Culture

The Unterlinden Museum and its famous Isenheim Altarpiece, the Bartholdi Museum, the half-timbered houses of the Tanners’ quarter: with a licensed guide, the town reads differently.

Wine

Colmar is surrounded by vineyards. We arrange tastings with winegrowers, lunches at the estate and an introduction to the Alsace grands crus, enjoyed responsibly.

The stay

A characterful hotel in the old town or a private house on the wine route, with a private chef for family dinners and a private driver for the excursions.

Colmar, base camp of the circuit

From Colmar, Eguisheim is a few minutes away, while Kaysersberg and Riquewihr are around a quarter of an hour by car. Our pillar article, Alsace Christmas Markets, the Private Way, sets out the whole circuit, and Strasbourg is roughly an hour away.

Our private concierge designs every stay to measure, through a personal proposal. Write to us through our contact page.

Frequently asked questions

What are the dates of the Colmar Christmas market in 2026?

23 November to 29 December 2026. The gourmet market and the Place Rapp big wheel stay open until 3 January 2027.

How many Christmas markets are there in Colmar?

Several, spread across the old town, including Place des Dominicains, the Ancienne Douane, Place Jeanne-d’Arc, Little Venice and the Koifhus.

Is Colmar a good base for visiting the villages?

Yes. Eguisheim, Kaysersberg and Riquewihr are all close by; a private driver lets you combine them without worrying about parking.

Can you visit the Unterlinden Museum with a guide?

Yes, we book visits with a licensed guide at the calmest possible time.

Do you arrange wine tastings near Colmar?

Yes, with selected winegrowers, with lunch at the estate on request. Please enjoy alcohol responsibly.

Photographs: real, credited images from Wikimedia Commons.