If you’re planning a trip to Europe to experience the incredible Christmas markets, this is my guide for a 10-day road trip. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Christmas markets in Europe a couple of times now, and I’ve curated the best aspects of all my trips to create this itinerary.
There is something so magical about the European Christmas markets. I remember the first time I saw the Strasbourg Christmas market, the decorations, and eating our way through the several markets throughout the town. There is nothing like it when the twinkling lights come on, and everyone is there, sipping hot wine and eating warm waffles covered in Nutella.
Truthfully, the European Christmas markets completely changed my perspective on Christmas, and it’s something I think everyone should experience at least once. If you plan ahead, you can put together an itinerary that allows you to see several markets in a single trip.
For this itinerary, I am focusing on Germany and France, and the top markets there, so that you can experience the very best alongside a few small towns, which have very quaint Christmas markets. Let’s get into it — read on for my guide to planning the ultimate European Christmas market itinerary.
Short on Time? Here’s the Ultimate European Christmas Market Itinerary (10 Days):
Stop 1: Cologne — 2 nights
Arrive in Frankfurt, drive to Cologne, and dive into Germany’s festive heart with seven Christmas markets. Explore Heinzel’s Winter Fairytale, Cologne Cathedral market, and Angel Market, sipping glühwein and enjoying waffles.
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst ($$$), for the best luxury hotel, and well-located
- Hyatt Regency Cologne ($$), for the best-priced hotel with access
- Classik Hotel Antonius ($$), for the best boutique hotel
- Hilton Cologne ($$), for the best Old Town location steps away from the markets
Stop 2: Koblenz — 1 night
Drive to Koblenz to experience its authentic markets across seven squares in the Old Town, plus the ticketed Christmas Garden at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Stroll the Rhine and Moselle confluence.
- Mercure Hotel Koblenz ($$), for the best in-town hotel within walking distance to everything
- Hotel Sander ($), for a great boutique hotel
Stop 3: Speyer — 1 night
Drive to Speyer for its picture-perfect Christmas market along Maximilianstraße, framed by the Romanesque cathedral and medieval gate. Savor glühwein and local crafts.
- Hotel Residenz am Königsplatz ($$), for a chic modern hotel
- Hotel Domhof ($$), for an elevated 4-star hotel
- Hotel Goldener Engel ($), for a charming in-town hotel
Stop 4: Strasbourg — 5 nights
Drive to Strasbourg, the “capital of Christmas,” and explore markets like Place de la Cathédrale and Place Kléber’s Grand Sapin. Take day trips to Colmar, Eguisheim, Obernai, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Freiburg for quaint markets.
- Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa ($$$), for the best luxury boutique hotel near Place Kléber
- Carpe Diem Home ($$), for a 2-bedroom apartment within the footsteps of the cathedral
- Hotel Kaijoo by HappyCulture ($), for the best budget, centrally-located hotel
Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip
For more tips, don’t miss my Strasbourg, Colmar, and Cologne Christmas Market guides, and my guide to the best Christmas Markets in Alsace, France!
Travel Tip: The best way to explore all the Christmas markets is by driving yourself. We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in France is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here.
Ultimate 10-Day European Christmas Market Itinerary
Helpful Tips Before Planning Your European Christmas Market Trip
The Best Time for Visiting the Christmas Markets
When planning to visit the European Christmas markets, timing is important. Most do not open until mid-November, with the peak of the crowds coming in the second or third week of December. If I could book an ideal week, it would be that very first week in December, when you know everything will be open and not entirely crowded. The markets are heavily visited, especially on weekends, so I would strategize to have the bigger markets, such as Strasbourg or Cologne, visited during the week.
How Much Time Is Needed for The Itinerary?
While this itinerary is set for 10 days, you can cut it down to just a week and select the spots that stand out to you. You could also spend longer, visiting other markets, which I suggest at the bottom of this itinerary guide.
What is the Best Way to Get Around?
The best way to explore all the markets is by renting a car. The car rental prices during the winter are significantly lower than peak summer prices, which is amazing. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit multiple smaller villages, which are not easily accessible by public transportation. You will significantly reduce your travel times by having your own car. I rented a car while in Strasbourg on a previous Christmas market trip and loved the ability to get around and see all the market towns.
Rental Car Tip: I use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
How Much Time Do You Recommend at Each Market?
When it comes to allocating time for each market, the larger markets, such as Strasbourg or Cologne, will require a full day to visit (or more). The smaller villages can be seen in less than two hours, but the time of day will depend on your itinerary. The markets are the most magical in the evenings, when it is dark and the lights come on, but most markets close by 9 PM. All the markets will open sometime around noon, depending on the village itself.
Editor’s Note: How I Structured This Itinerary
I am taking the best of all of my Europe Christmas market trips and putting it into one — i.e., learn from my mistakes. I’ve put together the ultimate itinerary that I think reflects the best of all the markets and minimizes travel time. The unfortunate part for the Germany portion is that there will be a few hotel switches; however, you end this trip with one long, consecutive stay in Strasbourg, which allows you to visit several markets from one base. The hope is for a slow-going, but meaningful experience that allows you to see a variety of markets and towns along the way, while in Europe for Christmas.
Christmas Market 10 Days Itinerary Overview
- Days 1-3: Cologne
- Days 3-4: Koblenz
- Days 4-5: Speyer
- Days 5-10: Strasbourg + Multiple Day trips
- Day 10: Depart Basel
Stop 1: Fly Into Frankfurt / Drive to Cologne
I would begin this itinerary by flying into Frankfurt International Airport and renting a car from there to drive out to Cologne. Most flights from the West Coast and East Coast land sometime in the morning, which means you’ll get to Cologne by the early afternoon with the 2-hour drive. If you still have energy, you can spend one extra evening in Cologne before setting out the next day to have a full day exploring the markets.
Rental Car Tip: We use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Germany, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
Cologne is the king of Christmas in Germany when it comes to German Christmas markets. With seven markets across the city, this is one of my favorite Christmas markets in Europe, and what better place to begin the trip? Dating back to the 13th century, the city comes alive with over 100 stalls, beautifully decorated with numerous vendors selling a wide range of items, from antiques to local food.
Read: Cologne Christmas Market Ultimate Planning Guide
Recommended Time: 2 Nights
I recommend two nights in Cologne to account for your arrival day and give you an afternoon to rest before beginning the itinerary. This will also give you two evenings to experience the Christmas markets, and because there are so many, I think you will enjoy having two opportunities to see them.
Where to Stay in Cologne
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst ($$$), for the best luxury hotel, and well-located (paid parking available)
- Hyatt Regency Cologne ($$), for the best-priced hotel with access (paid parking available)
- Classik Hotel Antonius ($$), for the best boutique hotel (paid parking available)
- Hilton Cologne ($$), for the best Old Town location steps away from the markets (paid parking available)
The Best Markets in Cologne
Here are my favorite markets in Cologne. Read my Cologne Christmas Market Guide for more everything you need to know!
- Heinzel’s Winter Fairytale — If I had to pick one favorite market in Cologne, it would be Heinzel’s winter fairytale. Often referred to as the Gnome Market, this one has incredible decorations, an ice-skating rink, and is spread out across two sections of the city. It is technically two markets combined into one — the Alter Markt and the Heumarkt — but they flow seamlessly into each other. For me, this was the most charming of all the Cologne markets, a true winter wonderland.
- Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) — The most popular of all the markets is the Cologne Cathedral market, which sits right in front of the cathedral. Sitting in Roncalliplatz, the stalls here lead up to the front doors of the cathedral. The setting is absolutely breathtaking. I suggest coming here, at least once at night, to see it fully lit up.
- Angel Market — The angel market has a more whimsical feel to it. Set with glistening lights, hanging from the trees, and a pair of angels that walk around the market, this is a small, charming market near Neumarkt. I would put this in my top three markets in Cologne to visit.
Dates: November 17–December 23, 2025 / Sun–Thu: 11 AM–9 PM, Fri–Sat: 11 AM–10 PM - Cologne Harbour Christmas Market (by the Chocolate Museum) — This was a small market with a stunning setting. The stalls are not as impressive here, but it’s worth a visit for the setting, and grab yourself a beer while you’re here.
- Nicholas Village — Another popular market to visit, I would take the time to get out to Nicholas Village. It’s much further than the others, but worth it as it feels a touch less touristy.
- Stadtgarten Market — Artsy and boutique, around 90 changing exhibitors focusing on art, fashion, and eco-friendly food/drinks—smaller and less touristy.
Opening Hours for Cologne Markets
| Market | Sun–Thu | Fri–Sat | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral | 11 AM–9 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | Nov 17–Dec 23 |
| Heinzels (Alter Markt) | 11 AM–10 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | Nov 24–Dec 23 |
| Heinzels (Heumarkt) | 11 AM–10 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | Dec 26–Jan 4: 11 AM–9 PM (closed 24–25) |
| Harbour | 11 AM–9 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | Nov 14–Dec 23 |
| Angels (Neumarkt) | 11 AM–9 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | Nov 17–Dec 23 |
| Nikolausdorf (Rudolfplatz) | 11 AM–9 PM | 11 AM–10 PM | mid‑Nov–Dec 23 |
| Stadtgarten | 4 PM–9:30 PM | 12 PM–9:30 PM | Nov 20–Dec 23 |
Other Things to Do in Cologne
- Visit Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) — It’s Germany’s most visited landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Gothic architecture is stunning, and you can climb the south tower for panoramic views of the city and the Rhine River.
- Tour the Museum Ludwig — Home to one of the largest Picasso collections in Europe, plus contemporary and pop art from artists like Warhol and Lichtenstein.
- Explore the Belgian Quarter (Belgisches Viertel) — It’s Cologne’s trendiest neighborhood with indie boutiques, cozy cafés, and vibrant street art—perfect for a break from the touristy spots.
Stop 2: Koblenz
One of the hidden gems that I discovered in Germany on my last trip was the town of Koblenz. It sits right at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, and it has an incredible old-world charm. I included this one on the itinerary because it stands out from the rest in terms of experience. It felt like the most authentic, local Christmas market I visited that wasn’t completely overrun by tourists. It also makes for a great stopping point as you work yourself down to the next stop.
Koblenz is also home to important German sights, and this part of the Rhine is the northernmost point of the UNESCO Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It makes for a beautiful combination of both markets and getting to see historic sights.
Recommended Time: 1 Night
I would leave Cologne in the midmorning and make the drive down to Koblenz. One night is perfect for experiencing the markets, having dinner out, and then waking up for your next day.
Where to Stay in Koblenz
- Mercure Hotel Koblenz ($$), for the best in-town hotel within walking distance to everything
- Hotel Sander ($), for a great boutique hotel
The Best Markets in Koblenz
- Koblenz Christmas Market (Altstadt, 7 Squares) — This is one of the most unique parts of Koblenz Markets, it’s spread out across seven squares. The main market is located in Jesuitenplatz, Am Plan, Josef-Görres-Platz, Münzplatz, Willi-Hörter-Platz/Rathaushof, Zentralplatz, and Liebfrauenkirche. All seven of these have a small section of markets to explore. I loved the Willi-Hörter-Platz and Jesuitenplatz — when you’re at Jesuitenplatz, look up to the windows for an Advent Calendar!
- Christmas Garden Koblenz (Ehrenbreitstein Fortress) — A special garden with lights and stalls to enjoy at the foot of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which requires an entrance ticket. There’s nothing more grand than the evening here; I’d try to get tickets if you can!
Opening Hours for Koblenz Markets
| Market/Event | Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Koblenz Christmas Market | Nov 22–Dec 22, 2025 | Mon–Wed 10–21; Thu–Sat 10–22; Sun 11–20 |
| Christmas Garden (Ehrenbreitstein Fortress) | Nov 21, 2025–Jan 8, 2026 | Daily 16:30–22:00 (last entry at 20:30); ticketed |
Other Things to Do in Koblenz
- Visit the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress — If you don’t make it to the evening market, consider visiting during the day to tour the historic fortress.
- See the Deutsches Eck, or the German Corner — A massive equestrian statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I (originally erected in 1897 and rebuilt in 1993 after World War II) stands at the tip of the promontory. It’s 37 meters (121 ft) tall and symbolizes German unity. Since 1990, flags of all 16 German states, the national flag, and the EU flag fly here, representing reunified Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
- Tour the Ludwig Museum — Home to contemporary art, this is a small museum to visit if you’re looking to get indoors.
- Explore the Old Town or Altstadt of Koblenz — There is so much to enjoy there, with small alleys, restaurants, and cafes. Pfefferminzje was a favorite for coffee!
Stop 3: Speyer
I don’t know if there’s a more picture-perfect Christmas market in Germany. Speyer was my absolute favorite; the single road, lined with all the festive Yule tide stalls selling glühwein and local crafts, is perfection. I spent one evening here and adored my half-day in the market.
As you depart from Koblenz, you’ll make the 2-hour drive to Speyer. Try to arrive by 3 PM if possible so you can enjoy an entire afternoon and evening in the market. The atmosphere here is beautiful, with traditional ornaments, and all the stalls that lead up to the 900-year-old Romanesque cathedral at the end. At the other end, you have the medieval town gate, which has food stalls leading up to it.
Recommended Time: 1 Night
One night here is perfect for exploring the market; just make sure to arrive by mid-afternoon to optimize your time.
Where to Stay in Speyer
- Hotel Residenz am Königsplatz ($$), for a chic modern hotel with private parking
- Hotel Domhof ($$), for an elevated 4-star hotel with public parking nearby
- Hotel Goldener Engel ($), for a charming in-town hotel with underground paid parking
The Best Markets in Speyer
- Speyer Christmas Market — It is a single Christmas market that takes over the old town of Speyer. It spreads along Maximilianstraße, right in front of the majestic Speyer Cathedral — Europe’s largest Romanesque church. You have dozens of stalls that line up to the gate, and it is all a pedestrian area.
Opening Hours for Speyer Markets
| Market/Event | Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Speyer Christmas Market | 24 Nov 2025 – 6 Jan 2026 (closed 25–26 Dec) PRESUMED DATES / FINAL DATES NOT ANNOUNCED | Mon–Thu/Sun: 11–21; Fri–Sat: 11–22 |
Other Things to Do in Speyer
- Visit Speyer Cathedral (Dom zu Speyer) — A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe. Walk inside to admire the massive stone nave, the crypts of emperors, and panoramic views from the south tower (open weather permitting). It’s stunning lit up at dusk.
- Discover the Historical Museum of the Palatinate (Historisches Museum der Pfalz) — Learn about Speyer’s Roman, medieval, and Jewish past. Special exhibitions rotate seasonally—often family-friendly, with interactive displays and artifacts from the region’s imperial legacy.
- Visit the Old Jewish Courtyard (Judenhof) — a historic site featuring one of Europe’s oldest medieval mikvehs (ritual baths) and remnants of a synagogue. A quiet, reflective place that speaks to Speyer’s Jewish heritage.
Stop 4: Strasbourg
The grand dame of Christmas Markets in France, there is nowhere like Strasbourg. If you visit one Christmas market in all of Europe, let it be here. I’ve had the chance to visit twice (check out my full Strasbourg Christmas Guide), and truthfully, nothing compares to the Strasbourg markets. The entire town comes alive, and with a history dating back to 1570, it is known as the “capital of Christmas.” Over 2 million visitors come annually, and it is full of multiple markets and hundreds of stalls.
It also makes for a perfect home base to explore more markets nearby in the Alsace region of France. That’s why I recommend ending with five nights here, so you can explore and take day trips to several nearby places. Alsace’s charm, food, and wine also make this a unique region to experience Christmas in. Strasbourg goes all out in its decorations, with storefronts adorned with festive displays, Christmas lights lining the streets, and several large Christmas trees throughout the city.
Recommended Time: 5 Nights
I recommend five nights in Strasbourg simply because two days is what you will need alone to see the city and its markets. From there, the other days can be used to visit about a half dozen other villages and markets nearby.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
Picking a strategic location in Strasbourg is extremely important to your experience. I always recommend somewhere with parking, because the old town closes down for pedestrians only during the markets. Hotels in the Old Town are well-prepared for this and usually offer parking options. This is where I suggest staying:
- Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa ($$$), for the best luxury boutique hotel near Place Kléber
- Carpe Diem Home ($$), for a 2-bedroom apartment within the footsteps of the cathedral
- Hotel Kaijoo by HappyCulture ($), for the best budget, centrally-located hotel
For more recommendations, see my Strasbourg Christmas Market guide!
The Best Markets in Strasbourg
- The Strasbourg Christmas Market at Place de la Cathédrale — The most popular market in Strasbourg is the one in front of the cathedral, with hundreds of stalls offering food, gifts, and festive treats. It’s especially magical at night when the cathedral glows and the market lights sparkle—perfect for a stroll with mulled wine in hand. It can get crowded, so visiting mid-week is best. Don’t miss the beautiful nativity scene set up at the cathedral’s front.
- Le Village du Partage at Place Kléber (Where the Grand Sapin is) — This square is home to the stunning Grand Sapin—Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas tree, towering at over 30 meters and carefully selected each year by France’s National Forestry Office, sometimes as early as March. In front of the tree, dozens of stalls create one of the city’s most festive markets. We loved this spot for its food and handcrafted gifts. Highlights included rich hot chocolate, freshly made gaufres (look for the waffle stall that cooks them on the spot), and warm tarte flambée. One artisan’s stand sold beautiful wooden figurines—we ended up taking home a whole set for our daughter.
- The Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie — You can’t miss Place Broglie, home to Strasbourg’s oldest Christmas market—the Christkindelsmärik, which dates back to 1871. It’s full of traditional charm, with stalls selling sausages, fresh pretzels, and handmade gifts.
- The Small Producers of Alsace Christmas Market at Place des Meuniers — This is the best market for foodies — come here for the stalls offering specialty foods like truffles, local wine, and foie gras.
- The Carré d’Or Christmas Market at Place du Temple-Neuf — This was one of my favorite markets for its smaller, more intimate feel. Set in front of the 19th-century Temple Neuf church, it has a cozy charm and a great selection of high-quality, hand-crafted gifts—especially the beautiful étoiles lumineuses (light-up houses). You’ll also find delicious regional foods here, making it a lovely spot to slow down and take in the atmosphere.
- Place Benjamin Zix — This was one of my favorite smaller markets in Strasbourg, tucked away in the charming Petite France district. With just a dozen or so stalls, it felt peaceful and personal, each vendor offering beautifully handcrafted wooden décor. It’s worth a stop while exploring this picturesque part of town.
- Place Gutenberg International Guest Christmas Market — Located in Place Gutenberg, this market is dedicated each year to a different guest country, showcasing its holiday traditions. The stalls feature unique cuisine, crafts, and cultural items from that country. It’s a great way to experience an international twist on Christmas—2025’s guest country is still to be announced!
- The Alsatian Delicacies Market at Place du Marché-des-Poissons — Situated on the terrace of the Palais Rohan, the Alsatian Delicacies Market is a must for food lovers. It’s the perfect place to taste your way through local specialties like vin chaud, mannele, regional wines, and even craft beer. With its scenic setting and rich flavors, it’s a delicious stop during your holiday stroll.
Opening Hours for Strasbourg Markets
| Market Location | Dates | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
| All Markets (Grande-Île) | 27 Nov (2 PM) – 27 Dec (9 PM) | Mon–Thu & Sun: 11:30 AM–9 PMFri & Sat: 11:30 AM–10 PM |
| Place Grimmeissen (OFF Market) | 27 Nov – 24 Dec | Daily: 11:30 AM–9 PM |
| Exceptional Closures: | – OFF Market, Place Grimmeissen closes on 24 December at 6:00 PM. – Advent Village and the Market of the Irreducible Small Producers of Alsace, Square Louise Weiss, are closed on 25 December. – Sharing Village, Place Kléber is closed on 25 and 26 December |
Other Things to Do in Strasbourg
- Visit Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame) — One of Europe’s greatest Gothic masterpieces, the cathedral is awe-inspiring inside and out. Don’t miss the astronomical clock show or climb the tower (weather permitting) for panoramic views over Strasbourg’s rooftops.
- Take a Batorama Boat Tour — Take a covered, heated boat ride through Strasbourg’s canals. You’ll glide past the medieval charm of Petite France, elegant 19th-century buildings, and even the modern European Parliament—a relaxing way to see the city.
- See the Palais Rohan Museums — Visit the three museums inside this historic palace: Fine Arts, Decorative Arts, and Archaeology. The building itself is stunning and offers a warm, elegant escape from the cold.
The Market Towns to Visit from Strasbourg (Day Trips)
These are all the day trips we took while staying in Strasbourg for the Christmas markets. Having our rental car meant we could visit multiple markets in a single day. It was so lovely to venture out of Strasbourg, and then some nights, we would come back to Strasbourg for the night markets there.
Rental Car Tip: I use Discover Cars for our rental cars in Europe, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
Colmar, France | 55 Minutes by Car or 30 Minutes by Train
Colmar transforms into a magical winter village with six themed Christmas markets scattered through its fairytale old town. Illuminated timber-framed houses and cobblestone lanes lead into the markets, and it feels like a postcard. You’ll find markets dedicated to local crafts, food, and even children’s activities and a Ferris wheel. Don’t miss the Petite Venise area, where a canal-side market glows with festive charm. Read my Colmar Market guide for all of my tips from my time there.
Eguisheim, France | 1 Hour by Car
The small village of Eguisheim, consistently ranked among France’s most beautiful, feels like stepping into a snow globe at Christmas. The circular village layout surrounds its medieval center, where a tiny yet charming Christmas market welcomes visitors. You’ll find handcrafted gifts, local wines, and rustic holiday foods, such as bredele (Alsatian cookies).
Obernai, France | 25 Minutes by Car
Obernai hosts a picturesque Christmas market set against its historic ramparts and half-timbered houses. Known for its Alsatian food market, you’ll find everything from foie gras and local cheeses to mulled wine infused with orange and spices. The setting is cozy and traditional, with white and red chalets filling the town square.
Heidelberg, Germany | 1 Hour 30 Minutes by Car (See between Speyer and Strasbourg)
Heidelberg’s Christmas market is spread across multiple scenic squares in the Altstadt, with the castle and Old Bridge forming a breathtaking backdrop. The highlight is the ice rink at Karlsplatz, set beneath the lit-up castle ruins. Stalls sell classic German fare—bratwurst, roasted nuts, and glühwein—as well as quality handmade gifts. The city’s romantic streets and historic charm make it a magical place for holiday shopping and sightseeing.
Riquewihr, France | 1 Hour by Car
Riquewihr feels like a postcard village, and during Christmas, it becomes almost unreal in its beauty. The narrow streets are lined with vibrant timbered houses, many of which are adorned with garlands, lights, and nativity scenes. The market itself is small but atmospheric, focusing on artisan crafts and gourmet treats.
Kaysersberg, France | 1 Hour by Car
Kaysersberg’s Christmas market is a beloved treasure nestled in a valley beside a castle ruin. This market emphasizes authentic, handmade items—you won’t find mass-produced trinkets here. The medieval streets are richly decorated with pine branches, candles, and red ribbons, creating a warm and nostalgic atmosphere.
Freiburg, Germany | 1 Hour by Car
Freiburg’s Christmas market fills the heart of its old town, beneath the towering spire of the Münster Cathedral. It’s a lively, family-friendly market renowned for its traditional Black Forest crafts, glassblowing demonstrations, and wood carving displays. Children can make candles or decorate gingerbread in special stalls. The market is larger than it first appears, winding through historic lanes and open squares.
Christmas Market: Cologne to Strasbourg Itinerary
- Day 1 — Fly into Frankfurt International Airport and pick up your rental car. Take the 2-hour drive to Cologne and settle into your hotel. Spend the first evening in one of the several Christmas markets.
- Day 2 — Spend a full day in Cologne, visiting the Christmas markets. If you want to wake up early, explore the old town, and consider going into the cathedral.
- Day 3 — Have breakfast in Cologne, and then drive one hour and 15 minutes to Koblenz. Check into your hotel and explore the several markets in the town. That night, try to get tickets for the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress Christmas market.
- Day 4 — This is your longest road trip portion at 2 hours, drive from Koblenz to Speyer, Germany. Try to get to Speyer by 2 PM so that you can settle in and enjoy the expansive market that takes over the city.
- Day 5 — Because you have so much time in Strasbourg, you could hang around in Speyer and consider going to Heidelberg in the early afternoon if you want to see that market. You could also do it as an optional day trip from Strasbourg, which is what we did, but you’ll be right there. Head for Strasbourg and settle in, and start with the markets there.
- Day 6 — Spend an entire day soaking in Strasbourg. Wake up early, enjoy the city center, visit the museums, and market hop through the city until the late hours of the night. Period
- Day 7 — By midmorning, get in the car and drive one hour down to Colmar. Try to arrive by 11 AM so that you can park and spend the entire afternoon exploring the markets. I would end the evening in Eguisheim, which is just 15 minutes outside the city.
- Day 8 — Wake up in the morning and make the drive to Freiberg to spend a whole day in the markets there.
- Day 9 — On this day, I’d combine the markets of Obernai, Riquewihr, and Kayserberg in a single road trip. Each of the towns can be seen in an hour or two.
- Day 10 — For departing flights, you have a few options. The closest airport would be Basel, Switzerland. You could also leave your car at Strasbourg Train Station and take a train to Paris.
Tips for Your Visit to The Christmas Markets
- Go weekdays for fewer crowds — ask the Christkind helpers, bake cookies with your kids, or ice skate peacefully
- Bring cash — huts may only take cash for food, drinks & rental
- Keep winter gear handy — evenings by the ice rink get chilly—gloves, scarf, and warm boots are wise
- Know the mug policy — in most German markets, you pay a small deposit for the mugs used for gluhwein or beer, and you return them to get a few euros back. However, I experienced a similar issue in Strasbourg, where one place was selling the mugs, but they couldn’t be returned, so keep this in mind.
- Plan special evenings — check local listings for fireworks nights or themed markets
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