During the festive season, Colmar's historic center becomes pedestrian-only, so driving directly to the Christmas markets isn't an option. Fortunately, the city offers several practical alternatives, including paid car parks near the markets, free park-and-ride lots with shuttle buses on weekends, and a train station just a short walk away. This guide covers the best ways to access the markets by car, train, and bus.
Why the Town Center Is Closed to Cars
Colmar closes its town centre to cars during the festive season to let visitors stroll through the Christmas markets in peace and safety. The pedestrian-friendly layout means you won't be able to park near the main market squares, so plan on arriving by public transport or using one of the designated parking areas outside the centre.
Arriving by Train
Colmar's train station is a convenient gateway to the markets, located just a 10- to 15-minute walk from the first Christmas market. Regional TER trains connect Colmar with Strasbourg (about 1 hour) and Mulhouse (about 40 minutes), making it easy to visit from nearby cities. If you're staying elsewhere in Alsace, check the TER schedules for a stress-free arrival in the heart of the festivities.
Park-and-Ride (P+R) Lots
For drivers, the best approach is to use one of the designated park-and-ride lots on the outskirts of Colmar. According to the official Christmas in Colmar website, the Parc des Expositions and the area near the train station offer P+R parking, with shuttle buses running on weekends. Follow the P+R signs as you approach the city to park your car for free and ride a shuttle bus directly to the markets.
Note that shuttle schedules and frequencies aren't published in advance, so check the latest details on the official tourism website before you go. On weekdays, you may find the P+R lots less crowded, as the shuttle service is primarily organised for weekends.
Paid Car Parks Near the Markets
If you prefer to park closer to the action, several paid car parks are available near the Christmas markets. The official tourism site lists these options and encourages visitors to use them as a last resort, recommending public transport or shuttles instead. For specific locations and rates, consult the Colmar tourism website or local signage upon arrival, as tariffs and availability can change.
Free Buses on Weekends
During December, the local TRACE bus network offers free travel on Saturdays and Sundays, making it easy to get around without a car. Additionally, special Christmas bus lines operate on Sundays, with dedicated routes and reinforced schedules to connect you to the markets and shops. These festive lines typically run on the three weekends of December, but exact dates and routes vary each year, so check with the transport authority for the current schedule.
Driving to Nearby Villages
If you want to explore the surrounding Alsatian villages like Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé, consider using the Christmas Shuttle service that connects Colmar to these towns. This service helps avoid the parking difficulties in each village, but it's a paid service with tickets available online. Remember that the shuttle operates on specific days during the market season, and schedules and prices are subject to change, so verify the current details on the official website.
Alternatively, you could focus solely on Colmar's six Christmas markets, which are easily walkable within the historic center. For a comparison of Colmar with Strasbourg's offerings, see our guide to help you decide.
Final Tips for a Smooth Visit
To beat the crowds and make parking easier, plan to visit the markets on a weekday rather than a weekend. Many locals recommend arriving early in the day to enjoy a more relaxed stroll through the markets before the crowds build. Always check the official Colmar tourism website for up-to-date information on parking, shuttles, and any temporary road closures.
If you're combining your trip with visits to other French celebrations, remember that Colmar offers a rich calendar of events throughout the year, and the Christmas markets are just one highlight among the many festivals in France.
Plan Your Visit
Getting to the Colmar Christmas markets doesn't have to be a headache. Whether you arrive by train and walk, use the park-and-ride lots with shuttle buses, or take advantage of free weekend buses, you have several options to avoid driving in the pedestrian center. For more inspiration, explore our guide to the Colmar Christmas Markets and plan an unforgettable visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to find parking in Colmar?
Parking in the historic center is not possible during the Christmas markets, but there are several alternatives. You can use the paid car parks near the markets, the free park-and-ride lots with shuttle buses on weekends, or rely on public transport. It's best to avoid driving directly into the center and instead follow signs to the P+R lots.
What is the best way to get to the Colmar Christmas market?
The best way is to arrive by train and walk 10-15 minutes to the first market, or use the park-and-ride lots at Parc des Expositions or the train station with shuttle buses. On weekends, buses are free throughout the TRACE network. Visiting on a weekday is also recommended to avoid the largest crowds.
Is the Colmar Christmas market worth it?
Yes, the Colmar Christmas market is often praised for its magical atmosphere in a historic, pedestrian-friendly setting. With six distinct markets, it offers a variety of local crafts and foods. Expect large crowds on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday for a more relaxed experience.
How long does it take to visit the Colmar Christmas market?
A good half-day, ideally starting in the late afternoon, is enough to explore all six markets, as they are all within walking distance. If you want to enjoy additional activities like the Ferris wheel, dining, or shopping, plan for a full day.
