Visiting Colmar in winter was a really nice surprise. The Christmas markets there are smaller than in Strasbourg, but they might have even more character. And then the Petite Venise neighborhood is truly beautiful and probably deserves more fame. In short, Colmar is a small town full of charm that is worth a one or two day stay.

The first time you see the Strasbourg Cathedral head on, you are intrigued by its asymmetrical look. "It's missing a second spire at the top," you tell yourself. But eventually, you get used to it, and it gives the place some character. Especially since that single spire really goes up high. Inside, there are some beautiful stained-glass windows to see.

A few years ago, Strasbourg was far from the rest of France. Since the TGV Est makes it possible to get from Paris to Strasbourg in less than 2 hours, it has become much easier to visit the Alsatian capital. And it would be a real shame to miss out! The time I recommend is the weeks leading up to Christmas: the decorations, the atmosphere, but especially the Christmas markets. You will see, they feel much more authentic than the ones found elsewhere in most big cities. Which makes sense, since, if I am not mistaken, it was Strasbourg that imported this Austro-German tradition back in 1570! Anyway, the point is that you will feel a truly special atmosphere browsing these stalls full of swe…

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