Christmas Markets of Alsace & The Black Forest
December 5 - 11, 2027
Immerse yourself in the storyboo charm of the Alsace wine villages of France and the Black Forest towns of Germany — a journey where half-timbered houses glow with twinkling lights, cobblestone lanes smell of mulled wine and gingerbread, and every square is alive with holiday cheer.
From the edge of the black forest of Baden-Baden to the majestic cathedral and festive markets of Strasbourg, through the vine-wrapped lanes of Colmar and Eguisheim, to the forest-framed Christmas scenes of Freiburg and Gengenbach, this itinerary blends world-class culture, authentic small-town ambiance, and the kind of European winter wonder that feels like stepping into a Christmas card.
Perfect for:
🎄 Christmas-market lovers
🍷 Wine and food enthusiasts
🏰 Architecture & culture explorers
🌲 Couples and small-group travelers seeking cozy charm
$2495 pp 1-3 $2195 4+ plus airfare
Included in Cost:
- All ground transportation
- All overnight accommodations double occupancy. $350 supplement for single room.
- All Breakfast
- Welcome Dinner
- Farewell Dinner
Not Included:
- Meals out side above mentioned
- entrance fees to sights you want to visit
- Travel Insurance
Itinerary:
Sunday Dec 5:
Arrive Franfurt take a train to Baden-Baden: Elegance & Winter Warmth
Arrive in the sophisticated spa resort of Baden-Baden, framed by the gently rolling Black Forest. The city glows with festive ambiance as lights twinkle around the Kurhaus and historic colonnades.
Top Experiences & Sights
• Baden-Baden Christkindelsmarkt – One of the region’s prettiest markets, complete with artisan stalls, gourmet treats, and live performances.
• Kurhaus & Kurpark – Stroll through beautifully illuminated grounds and enjoy the elegant Belle Époque architecture.
• Caracalla Spa or Friedrichsbad – Warm up with a luxurious soak in thermal waters.
• Lichtentaler Allee – Winter stroll along the famous tree-lined avenue.
Evening at leisure to enjoy local mulled wine (Glühwein) and Black Forest specialties.
Monday Dec 6:
Train to Strasbourg, France — “The Capital of Christmas”
Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest and most iconic Christmas markets, dating back to 1570. The city glows with miles of lights, towering Christmas trees, and charming half-timbered houses.
Top Sites to See
• Strasbourg Cathedral (Notre-Dame)
A Gothic masterpiece with a stunning astronomical clock and panoramic tower views.
• Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie
The city’s oldest and largest Christmas market.
• Place de la Cathédrale Market
Magical stalls nestled beneath the cathedral’s spire.
• La Petite France
A postcard-perfect district of canals and medieval houses.
• Place Kléber Christmas Tree
One of Europe’s most spectacular decorated trees.
Tuesday Dec 7:
Train to Colmar Christmas Magic
Colmar feels like a real-life fairy tale in December. Its six themed Christmas markets spread across the medieval old town make it a highlight of any winter trip.
Top Sites to See
• Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
Colorful houses and canals decorated for the holidays.
• Place de l’Ancienne Douane Market
Glittering market surrounding the Schwendi Fountain.
• Crafts & Gourmet Market at Koïfhus
Artisans, local delicacies, and mulled wine inside a 15th-century building.
• Dominican Church & Unterlinden Museum
Home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.
Wednesday Dec 8:
Bus to Eguisheim’s Circular Village
Eguisheim is one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages” and is famous for its concentric circular streets and glowing holiday ambiance.
Top Sites to See
• Place du Château Saint-Léon
Heart of the village and home to its main Christmas market.
• Medieval Walls & Circular Lanes
Wander the ringed streets lined with decorated half-timbered homes.
• St. Léon IX Chapel
• Alsace Wine Tasting Workshops
An area known for its stellar Rieslings and Gewürztraminer.
• Local Artisan Christmas Market
Smaller but incredibly charming and intimate.
Thursday Dec 9:
Bus to Colmar and train to Freiburg im Breisgau
Freiburg, the sunniest city in Germany, blends university-town vibrancy with medieval charm and a lively Christmas market.
Top Sites to See
• Freiburg Minster (Münster)
One of Germany’s most beautiful Gothic cathedrals.
• Münsterplatz Market
A festive market offering crafts, ornaments, and classic German treats.
• Historic Old Town (Altstadt)
Discover the famous “Bächle” water channels and cobblestone lanes.
• Schwabentor & Martinstor
Two medieval city gates.
• Schlossberg Hill Funicular
Beautiful panoramic views over the twinkling city (weather permitting).
Friday Dec 10:
Train to Gengenbach’s Advent Calendar Town
Gengenbach is legendary for its world-largest Advent Calendar House, where the Rathaus (Town Hall) transforms each December into a giant advent calendar—one window opens every night with a special ceremony.
Top Sites to See
• Gengenbach Town Hall Advent Calendar
A nightly event with music, lights, and festive crowds.
• Historic Market Square
Classic Black Forest charm with timbered houses and holiday stalls.
• Kinzigtor & Obertor Gates
Scenic medieval entrances to the old town.
• Museum Haus Löwenberg
Art exhibitions and local cultural displays.
Saturday Dec 11:
Train to Frankfurt and onward home
For more info or to register:
email or call us at
717.917.1359
