Christmas Markets on the Upper Rhine: Strasbourg, Colmar, Basel

This is where your trip begins. From the main station, you'll take a relaxed train ride towards Alsace.

The Christkindelsmärik around the Cathedral and Place Broglie is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe and is considered the heart of Strasbourg, the 'Christmas capital'. The entire old town on the Grande Île turns into a sea of lights with more than a dozen smaller markets. Perfect for a first stroll with vin chaud and bredele.

A charming hotel right in the old town of Strasbourg, just a few steps from the cathedral and the markets. A quiet side-street location, ideal for evening walks through the illuminated Grande Île.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here

The Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral, built from pink sandstone, was for centuries the tallest building in Christendom. Inside, the astronomical clock is well worth seeing, and the platform offers sweeping views over the rooftops and the Rhine.

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The baroque Palais Rohan, right next to the cathedral, houses no fewer than three museums, including the Beaux-Arts collection with works ranging from Botticelli to Goya. A good, warm stop on a cold Advent day.

The former tanners' and millers' quarter, with its half-timbered houses and canals, is especially beautifully lit during Advent. Narrow lanes, bridges and little shops invite a leisurely stroll.

A traditional winstub serving Alsatian dishes such as baeckeoffe, choucroute and flammkuchen in a cosy setting. A good spot for a warm, hearty dinner after wandering the markets.

Colmar's old town is considered one of the most beautiful in Alsace, with colourful half-timbered houses and the picturesque Petite Venise quarter along the canals. During Advent, several themed Christmas markets spread across the squares, each with its own character.

The museum, housed in a former Dominican convent, is home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald, a highlight of late Gothic painting. A good chance to warm up at midday while enjoying some art.

The Christmas market in the Petite Venise quarter is especially romantic, with the lights reflecting in the canals. Here you'll find regional specialities, mulled wine and craftwork in a calmer atmosphere than in the centre.

Basel hosts one of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Switzerland, spread across Barfüsserplatz and the festively lit Münsterplatz with its large Christmas tree. The air is filled with the scent of Basler Läckerli, roasted almonds and mulled wine, alongside plenty of craftwork.

The red sandstone Münster overlooking the Rhine shapes Basel's skyline and offers lovely views of the river and the tri-border region from the Pfalz terrace. Inside, the Gothic choir stalls and the burial site of Erasmus of Rotterdam are well worth seeing.

A traditional Basel inn in a historic building in the old town, serving Swiss cuisine in cosy dining rooms. A fitting way to round off the trip with hearty food and regional beer or wine.

A centrally located hotel in Basel's old town, within walking distance of Barfüsserplatz, the Münster and the Christmas markets. Well connected by tram and to the station for your return or onward journey.

Booking ahead is often cheaper here