Christmas Across the 3 Borders

"Christmas Across the 3 Borders" is a unique opportunity to experience the festive spirit of the holiday season in a multi-cultural setting. Travelers can enjoy the enchanting Christmas markets of Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach, all within a single day. With round-trip transportation from Colmar, visitors can indulge in local delicacies, discover captivating crafts, and soak in the distinct charm of each border-crossing destination. From the twinkling fairy lights to the warmth of mulled wine, this tour promises a truly magical and unforgettable experience. But what sets this journey apart from the rest, and why should one consider embarking on this festive adventure?"

Good To Know

• Explore three distinct Christmas markets in Basel (Switzerland), Freiburg (Germany), and Neuf-Brisach (France) within a single day-long tour.
• Experience the festive atmosphere with traditional carols, fairy lights, and mulled wine at each market location.
• Enjoy a hassle-free tour with round-trip transportation, admission tickets, and an expert guide provided.
• Discover the historical and architectural highlights of the Vauban-designed fortifications in Neuf-Brisach.
• Savor local delicacies and browse handcrafted gifts while immersed in the charming Old Town settings of Freiburg and Basel.

Tour Overview

This tour offers the opportunity to explore the festive Christmas markets of Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach in a single day.

You’ll experience the magical atmosphere of these markets, complete with traditional carols, fairy lights, and mulled wine.

The tour includes hassle-free round-trip transport from your central Colmar hotel, ensuring a seamless experience.

With a total of 23 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, this tour is a highly-rated option for those looking to make the most of their time and explore multiple markets across the borders.

Free admission tickets are included, making this a convenient and budget-friendly choice.

Itinerary Details

The tour departs at 10:00 am from central Colmar, with the first stop being Neuf-Brisach, France. Here, visitors can explore the town’s historic fortifications.

Next, the tour heads to Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, for a daytime visit to its festive Christmas market.

As evening falls, the group travels to Basel, Switzerland, to witness the city’s beautiful illuminations and enjoy the lively atmosphere of its Christmas market.

Admission to all markets is included. The tour provides a hassle-free way to experience the holiday cheer across three countries in a single day.

Included and Excluded

The tour includes several key items to enhance the experience.

Travelers will receive bottled water and enjoy the services of a knowledgeable driver/guide. Pickup and drop-off at their Colmar hotel are also included, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

However, the cost of lunch isn’t covered, though a stop will be made for participants to purchase their own meal.

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Travelers can also benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.

Traveler Feedback

Positive reviews from previous travelers highlight the quality of the tour guides, particularly Yvan and Christian, who’ve been praised for their expertise and engaging presentation style.

Travelers appreciated the flexibility to adjust the tour plans on the day, allowing them to optimize their experience.

However, some recommendations suggest carrying Swiss francs for purchases in Basel, as not all shops accept euros.

Accessibility and Participation

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats are available for those who need them.

Most travelers can participate in this Christmas market tour, with the only requirement being that children must be accompanied by an adult. This makes the tour suitable for travelers with limited time who want to experience multiple markets across the borders of France, Germany, and Switzerland.

While the markets themselves may present some accessibility challenges, the tour is designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive atmosphere and traditional delights of the season.

Highlights of Neuf-Brisach

Nestled along the French-German border, Neuf-Brisach enchants visitors with its well-preserved fortifications and charming ambiance.

As the first stop on the Christmas market tour, travelers can explore the impressive 17th-century citadel designed by renowned military architect Vauban. Wandering through the star-shaped bastions provides a glimpse into the town’s strategic past.

The Christmas market itself offers a delightful respite, with cozy wooden chalets selling local crafts and delicacies. Sipping on mulled wine while browsing the festive stalls creates a truly immersive experience, transporting visitors back in time.

This fortified town sets the stage for the subsequent German and Swiss market visits, offering a captivating introduction to the cross-border holiday celebrations.

Exploring Freiburg’s Markets

Leaving the historic fortifications of Neuf-Brisach behind, the tour group makes its way across the border into Germany, where the vibrant Christmas markets of Freiburg await.

Freiburg’s markets offer a delightful daytime experience, with rows of charming wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts and traditional German delicacies. Tourists can browse the festive offerings, sipping mulled wine and sampling local specialties while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

The markets are set against the backdrop of Freiburg’s picturesque Old Town, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s historic charm.

With free admission to the markets, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the unique character of this German Christmas destination.

Discovering Basel’s Illuminations

As the daylight fades, the tour group heads across the border into Switzerland, where the vibrant Christmas markets of Basel await. The city’s historic center comes alive with twinkling lights, captivating illuminations, and the festive spirit of the season.

• Stroll through the main Christmas market on Barfüserplatz, admiring the hundreds of wooden chalets and browsing for unique gifts and seasonal treats.

• Marvel at the 15-meter-tall Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of glittering lights, in front of the iconic Basler Münster cathedral.

• Warm up with a steaming mug of mulled wine as the sounds of traditional carols fill the air.

• Discover hidden gem markets in quaint corners of the city, each with its own distinct character and charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on Other Dates Besides the One Listed?

The tour is offered on multiple dates, but the availability and schedule may vary. Customers should check the tour provider’s website or inquire about upcoming dates and itinerary details when making their booking.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can request a private or customized tour for your group. The tour operator offers personalized experiences to suit your needs, though availability and pricing may vary. Contact them directly to discuss your group’s preferences and itinerary.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, it’s an intimate experience, so smaller groups would likely enjoy it more. Travelers can inquire about group size when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Are Any Food or Drink Tastings Included in the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include any food or drink tastings, but it does provide bottled water. Travelers can stop for lunch on their own during the tour, but the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price.

Can I Leave the Tour at Any of the Market Locations and Explore on My Own?

Yes, travelers can choose to leave the tour at any of the market locations and explore on their own. The tour provides the flexibility for participants to adjust their plans as desired during the day.

The Sum Up

The "Christmas Across the 3 Borders" tour offers a delightful way to take in the festive spirit of the holiday season. Travelers can explore the enchanting Christmas markets in Basel, Freiburg, and Neuf-Brisach, sampling local delicacies, admiring twinkling lights, and soaking in the unique charm of each border-crossing destination. With round-trip transport from Colmar, this experience promises a magical and memorable journey through the enchanting landscapes of the tri-border region.