French Christmas Markets Overnight

Immerse yourself in French holiday magic with a spectaculaire weekend getaway to four award winning Christmas Markets!

Your weekend begins in Montbéliard. Voted Europe’s 9th best market, the splendide Cité des Princes (City of the Princes) features over 200 glowing stalls at Place Saint-Martin alongside five additional markets. Saturday evening brings you to Basel, a Swiss town on the French border, crowned the 2021 "Best Christmas Market in Europe." Relax at your 4-star hotel near the Rhine River before wandering through nearly 150 rustic stands at the historique Münsterplatz. On Sunday, the magique fairytale continues in Colmar, where six distinct markets blend into the cobblestone streets—including a must-visit Gourmet market on Rue de la Montagne Verte! Finally, wrap up your shopping in Strasbourg, the légendaire Capitale de Noël (Capital of Christmas), boasting five sprawling markets anchored by a grandiose 30-meter tree.

Army Outdoor Recreation provides an incredible opportunity to experience four highly-rated Christmas markets over one extraordinaire weekend. Because of strict early hotel booking deadlines, this populaire trip will sell out quickly. Save your money for a délicieux dinner—an early bird discount applies to the adult price for the first 25 seats booked. Choose your departure from either Pulaski or Smith Barracks and reserve your spaces today!

Price, Seats 1-25:

• Double Occupancy: $329 per person
• Single Occupancy: $399

Price, Seats 26-47:

• Double Occupancy: $379 per person
• Single Occupancy: $449
   
• Bus seat assignment preference in rows 2-5: $50 per seat (Does not guarantee a specific seat.)

Reservations made on or after Thursday, November 5 may be subject to rebooking fees based on the hotel’s dynamic room rate on the date of rebooking.

• Family room rates on request based on age and room configuration requirements
• Children under 2 on existing bedding: $149

Trip Includes: 

• Round trip tour bus transportation from your choice of Pulaski or Smith Barracks
• One overnight at Essential by Dorint Basel City**** or equivalent with breakfast
• Montbéliard Christmas Market
• Basel Christmas Market
• Colmar Christmas Market
• Strasbourg Christmas Market

What to Bring:

• Comfortable, weather appropriate shoes and clothing
• Credit/Debit Card or Euro and Swiss Francs
• Military ID and Passport

Any required paper or electronic travel documentation is the personal responsibility of each individual traveler. 

Departure:

• 4 a.m. from Wagon Wheel Theater, Smith Barracks
• 5 a.m. from Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, bldg. 2905

Return: Sunday Evening

Estimated Itinerary

Saturday: A Dazzling Arrival and Swiss Elegance

Montbéliard, France
The first stop on your weekend journey brings you to a destination renowned for its breathtaking holiday illuminations. Explore a sprawling winter wonderland where hundreds of artisan chalets are set against a backdrop of brilliant light displays. You will have ample time to wander through the town's multiple festive squares, browse for handcrafted treasures, and enjoy a warm crepe paired with spiced wine under the famous, brightly lit arches that define this magnifique city.

Basel, Switzerland
Later in the afternoon, cross the border and check into your upscale downtown accommodations in this culturally rich Swiss hub which borders both France and Germany. The vibrant city center is just a short walk away, offering a gorgeous evening atmosphere. Spend your night strolling beneath beautifully decorated pine trees, shopping at traditional wooden chalets, and tasting local culinary delights—be sure to try the melted Swiss raclette and famous local gingerbread before retiring for the night.

Sunday: Alsatian Charm and The Grand Finale

Colmar, France
After enjoying your included hotel breakfast, relax on the coach as we drive back into the scenic Alsace region. Discover a picturesque town where multiple themed holiday zones are seamlessly woven into the beautiful medieval architecture. Each area offers a different vibe and specialized crafts, with plenty of opportunities for foodies to grab an authentique, mouth-watering Alsatian lunch surrounded by stunning half-timbered houses and canal views.

Strasbourg, France
The final stop of your trip brings you to one of Europe's oldest and grandest holiday celebrations. Marvel at the immense, world-famous holiday tree towering over Place Kléber and lose yourself in the beautifully lit alleyways. This massive, city-wide festival is the ultimate place to pick up your final gifts and soak in the mémorable festive ambiance before settling back into your comfortable seat for the relaxing ride home.