
Christmas Markets Itinerary France and Germany: A Festive Journey Through Europe's Winter Wonderland
Embark on a 7-day winter adventure through the enchanting Christmas markets of France and Germany. This itinerary guides you from the charming streets of Strasbourg and Colmar to the vibrant festive scenes of Munich and Cologne, utilising efficient train travel to maximise your holiday cheer.
- 1Strasbourg
- 2Munich
- 3Cologne
Day 1: Arrive in Strasbourg
Begin your festive journey in Strasbourg, arriving at Strasbourg Airport (SXB) and transferring to the city centre via shuttle train to Strasbourg-Ville station. Settle in and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the city's renowned Christmas markets.
Highlights
- Take a shuttle train from Strasbourg Airport (SXB) to Strasbourg-Ville station, a quick 8-minute journey, to reach the heart of the city.
- Wander through the historic Petite France quarter, with its canals and half-timbered houses, beautifully illuminated for the holidays.
- Experience your first taste of the Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg's famous Christmas market, enjoying local treats and festive decorations.
Day 2: Explore Strasbourg's Historic Charm
Dedicate a full day to discovering Strasbourg's rich history and its extensive Christmas market offerings, from grand squares to intricate Gothic architecture.
Highlights
- Admire the Gothic grandeur of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, famed for its pink sandstone facade and astronomical clock.
- Stroll through Place Kléber, a historic square known for its Christmas market traditions and Renaissance buildings.
- Explore the Palais Rohan, an elegant 18th-century palace housing decorative arts collections, offering a glimpse into royal history.
Day 3: Day Trip to Enchanting Colmar
Take a scenic train journey to Colmar, a picturesque town known for its fairytale-like Christmas markets and charming Alsatian architecture.
Highlights
- Board a train from Strasbourg to Colmar, with services running frequently from 00:01, taking around 40 minutes and costing from €6.
- Explore Colmar's 'Petite Venise' district, a postcard-perfect area of canals and half-timbered houses, especially atmospheric during the festive season.
- Visit the Koïfhus, a historic customs house from 1480, which anchors a lively square and showcases classic Alsatian architecture, before catching a return train from Colmar by 23:58.
Day 4: Travel to Munich
Journey by train from Strasbourg to Munich, transitioning from French Alsace to Bavarian Germany, and begin exploring Munich's unique Christmas markets.
Highlights
- Travel from Strasbourg to Munich by train with providers like Deutsche Bahn or SNCF | TGV INOUI, a journey taking approximately 4 hours 17 minutes and costing from €55.
- Arrive at München Hbf, Munich's central station, conveniently located for exploring the city.
- Begin your Munich exploration at the historic Viktualienmarkt, a lively market offering local character and festive goods.
Day 5: Discover Munich's Festive Spirit
Spend a full day delving into Munich's vibrant Christmas markets and iconic Bavarian landmarks, soaking in the city's festive atmosphere.
Highlights
- Visit Marienplatz, Munich's central square, to witness the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel, surrounded by the main Christmas market.
- Explore the Munich Residenz, the city's largest palace, which housed Bavarian rulers for centuries, offering lavish rooms and courtyards.
- Enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine like Schweinsbraten (roast pork) or Weißwurst (white sausages) at a classic Munich beer hall like Hofbräuhaus München.
Day 6: Journey to Cologne
Take a train from Munich to Cologne, arriving in time to experience the magnificent Christmas market set against the backdrop of Cologne Cathedral.
Highlights
- Board a train from München Hbf to Köln Hbf, a journey typically taking around 4 hours 58 minutes with Deutsche Bahn, with tickets available from €20.
- Arrive at Köln Hbf, Cologne's central railway station, located right next to the city's most famous landmark.
- Head directly to the Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its grandeur while enjoying the festive stalls.
Day 7: Depart from Cologne
Enjoy a final morning exploring Cologne's attractions or picking up last-minute souvenirs before departing from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN).
Highlights
- Take a morning stroll along the Rheinpromenade for scenic views of the Rhine River and the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge.
- Visit the Museum Ludwig, an outstanding museum with collections of Picasso, pop art, and modern masters.
- Depart from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), easily accessible by S-Bahn train to Köln Hauptbahnhof in about 14 minutes, or consider Düsseldorf Airport (DUS) or Frankfurt Airport (FRA) for broader flight options.








