colmar tourist point

15 Best Things to Do in Colmar, France (+Map & Tips for Your Visit)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 23, 2024

Thinking of visiting Colmar in France and wondering what to expect and what there is to see and do in Colmar town and just nearby? In this guide, we highlight all the must-sees, the VERY BEST things to do in Colmar that are worth your time the most. You’ll also find some practical tips for your visit.

Colmar is one of the most beautiful towns in the Alsace region in France . Best known for its colorful half-timbered houses, Colmar is extremely picturesque. It might sound like a cliché, but it truly looks like a town from a fairytale or some Disney movie…

But there’s more to Colmar than just the most photographed street in the La Petite Venise district that you see in all travel brochures and on social media… The entire city center is gorgeous , with lively squares and a labyrinth of pretty streets lined with cafés and shops selling local specialties.

Indeed, one of the best things to do in Colmar is simply strolling through the old town, soaking up the lovely atmosphere, and enjoying all the culinary delights that Alsace is famous for. But the city also has some amazing museums and fun activities. In addition, you can also see the Statue of Liberty here (yes, you’re reading it right!).

A visit to Colmar and the area is also a great opportunity to get acquainted with the unique culture and cuisine of Alsace. You’ll notice both, French and German influence in pretty much everything in this part of France.

What makes Colmar even more special is its beautiful location in the heart of the Alsace wine region , and there are some incredibly picturesque places just nearby that are worth your time too (we include a few of the musts in this guide too). Take a look!

To help you plan your visit to Colmar, we created a map of the main sights in Colmar . This should give you a better idea of where everything is and how to plan your time.

Good to know: Half a day to a day is enough for the main attractions in Colmar town itself. If you plan your time well, you can even explore some of the best places near Colmar on the same day as well. However, we highly recommend spending at least a night or two in the area – it’s more than worth it (see our suggestions further below).

TIP: If you only have 1 day for Colmar and are coming from Strasbourg , it’s best to visit with an organized tour . They make sure that you get the most out of your limited time, and some tours include a visit to at least one other nice village nearby, and/or wine tasting. In winter, there are tours that focus on the beautiful Christmas markets .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Good to know: If visiting Colmar on your own, one of the best ways to be sure you get to see all the best places in Colmar in a short time is to start your town visit with a stop at the Tourist Office . There, you can get a free city map indicating all the best things to do in Colmar.

Throughout the town, you’ll also find informational boards (in French, German, and in English) at all the main points of interest.

You can also follow the metal arrows with the Statue of Liberty on the pavements throughout the old town. They indicate a popular tourist route that covers most of the main sights in Colmar.

These are the best things to do in Colmar and top places to visit nearby:

1. La Petite Venise

La Petite Venise (The Little Venice) is the popular name of one of the most picturesque places in Colmar – the neighborhood along the Lauch River in Colmar. The district stretches from approximately Parc de la Lauch in the northeast to the St-Pierre Bridge in the southwest.

The most visited and most photographed place here is the Quai de la Poissonnerie (The Fishmonger District). This is the most famous image of Colmar that you see everywhere . The adjacent Rue de la Poissonnerie is also not to be missed.

But the whole area is really picturesque, so be sure to walk the entire length along the river. There are lots of cafés and restaurants here, some with really nice views. See if you can find a table and sit down for a drink and soak up the incredible atmosphere here.

Also, don’t miss the beautiful town square at Rue Turenne , just near the bridge where boat tours start. There are some really pretty buildings here too.

2. Boat Trips on the Lauch River

In addition to exploring La Petite Venise on foot, you can also opt for a boat ride on the river . This is probably the most popular tourist attraction in Colmar!

The traditional flat-bottomed boats ( barques ) take you for a short ride on the Lauch, giving you a slightly different perspective of the Little Venice district. Since some parts of the river are lined with houses, you can’t really see the entire area on foot, so taking a boat is the best way to see everything that this area has to offer. The journey also takes you to the quieter part of the city center, with lots of greenery and several grand mansions.

Is it worth it? We had been in Colmar in the past and since the boats were always crowded, we never found it worth the wait. However, on our most recent trip to Colmar in March, it wasn’t nearly as busy as in the summer, and so we decided to give it a try. I have to admit that we had somewhat mixed feelings about the boat trip.

It’s something nice to do in Colmar if you have time, but I don’t think you are really missing much if you decide to skip it. By far the nicest part is the area around Quai de la Poissonnerie and Rue Turenne Bridge  – all the places that you can easily see without taking a boat as well.

Practical information: Boat trips run daily the whole year (limited offer in winter) and take about 25 minutes. At the moment, a boat ride in Colmar costs about 7 EUR per person (kids under 5 are free). There are two places where you can take a boat – one next to the Rue Turenne Bridge (very busy), and the other – next to St. Pierre Bridge (much quieter). I indicated them both on our map as well.

You don’t have to book in advance and can just get a ticket for the next available boat when you arrive. However, if it’s busy, you might have to wait quite a long time (you can also get a timed ticket and then go explore more of the city while you wait). Boat tours at St. Pierre Bridge allow online bookings . So if you are short on time and want to absolutely do this when visiting Colmar, then it might be worth booking a specific time slot in advance.

3. Quartier des Tanneurs

Quartier des Tanneurs (Tanners’ District) is another place that you absolutely have to see in Colmar. Located just a short walk from Little Venice, this area is just as picturesque.

The Tanners District is a small area in the heart of the old town center of Colmar. It’s located between the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Rue des Tripiers, Rue de Montagne Verte, and Rue des Tanneurs. Its colorful timber-framed houses date from the 17-18th centuries and have been beautifully restored in the 1970s.

These were the houses of families of leather tanners who lived and worked here. The top floor of the buildings was usually used to dry the pelts.

4. Place de l’Ancienne Douane & Koïfhus

Bordering the Tanneurs District, this is one of the most beautiful town squares in Colmar, Place de l’Ancienne Douane . This is the old business-heart of Colmar, home to the 15th- century Customs House Koïfhus (or Ancienne Douane in French).

This lively square with Schwendi Fountain in the middle is lined with beautiful buildings, with lots of cafes and restaurants. The atmosphere here is usually both cozy and vibrant. Place de l’Ancienne Douane hosts various events throughout the year, and it’s also the location of one of the six Christmas Markets in Colmar.

The impressive Renaissance building Koïfhus dates from 1480 and is the oldest public building in Colmar. In the past, it served as a warehouse, but also as a customs office where the city collected taxes and duties on the imported goods. Two adjoining buildings were added in the 16th century.

In the late 19th – early 20th centuries, the Koïfhus was occupied by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as by a few schools. Nowadays, it hosts various public events.

5. Colmar Old Town

As already mentioned, one of the best things to do in Colmar is to simply walk around through the Old Town admiring the stunning architecture all around you. The most popular districts mentioned above take up just a small part of the city center; the rest is well worth seeing as well!

It would be impossible to describe every building, street, or square that’s worth seeing in the historic old town of Colmar because pretty much every street you turn into is more beautiful than the other. Nevertheless, there are several particularly impressive buildings that are worth a separate mention.

Here is a short overview of some of the nicest places to see in Colmar old town , in addition to those already mentioned above:

• Maison Pfister . Built in 1537, this is an impressive Renaissance house with a corner window, a wooden gallery, octagonal turret, and murals depicting biblical scenes. It’s considered one of the symbols of Colmar. The house was built for a silver trader Ludwig Scherer, but its current name is dedicated to the Pfister family who restored the house and lived in it in the late 19th century. The exterior has been recently restored again.
• The Tribunal Judiciaire (Law Court) is another noteworthy building in the center of Colmar. Be sure to also locate the small statue Manneken Pis Colmar on the northern side of the building facade. It’s a replica of the famous Manneken-Pis , the symbol of Brussels . It was gifted to Colmar by Brussels in 1922, to commemorate the sufferings both cities endured during the German Occupation.
• Maison Adolph . Built in 1350, this is one of the oldest houses in Colmar. Its name comes from the Adolph family who renovated the house and lived there at the end of the 19th century. Nowadays, you’ll find a wine shop on the ground floor.
• La Maison Des Têtes (The House of the Heads) is another remarkable building to see in Colmar. Built in 1609, the building owes its name to the 106 heads/ grotesque masks on its facade. Recently renovated, the building now houses one of the nicest luxury boutiqe hotels in Colmar, Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes .
• Grand Rue , Rue des Clefs , Rue des Marchands . These are the main shopping/ restaurant streets in the old town of Colmar.
• Place des 6 Montagnes Noires . This is a very picturesque town square with the Roesselmann Fountain in the middle. It’s located just next to the Rue Turenne bridge, very close to Little Venice – definitely check it out!

6. Unterlinden Museum

Musée Unterlinden is one of the must-sees in Colmar. If you have time to visit just one museum in town, make it this one!

Set inside a 13th-century Dominican convent, the Unterlinden museum covers thousands of years of history, from the prehistoric era to contemporary art. A new wing of the museum is located inside a building of old public baths, just across the square. Both parts of the Unterlinden museum are linked by an underground gallery. 

Probably the most interesting are the rooms located around the cloister. Here, you can see art dating from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. A must-see is the 16th-century  Isenheim Altarpiece  by Grünewald and Niclaus of Haguenau.

The museum also houses some 20th-century masterpieces by Monet, de Staël, and Picasso, to name just a few.

Practical information: Unterlinden Museum is open daily except on Tuesdays and some public holidays. For more info, please check their website . You can reserve your tickets in advance here .

7. Colmar Tourist Train

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Colmar is the little tourist train, Petit Train Touristique . These green miniature ‘trains’ pass most of the main sights in the old town in about 35 minutes.

It’s a great way to see the best of Colmar without having to walk and you get an overview of the city with an accompanying commentary.

While the tourist train is good for those who are short on time, have mobility issues, or for families with kids, don’t use it as a substitute for exploring the city on foot. Ideally, you do this train ride first, get a good understanding and some background info on the main sights in Colmar, and then explore deeper on your own.

Good to know: The tourist train runs the whole year round and departs from Rue Kléber, just near the Unterlinden Museum. In high season, it runs every 30 minutes from 9 AM to 6.30 PM. For more information, check their website .

8. St. Martin’s Church

St. Martin’s Church ( Église Saint-Martin ) is probably the most remarkable church in Colmar. Built during the 13-14th centuries in the Gothic style, its original spire and roofs were destroyed in a 16th-century fire. This explains the unusual tower top in the form of a lantern.

Saint Martin’s collegiate church is often referred to as Colmar Cathedral (in German “Münster”). However, it only had the cathedral status for about 10 years, at the end of the 18th century.

The building has a very impressive exterior, and especially the colorful roofs that look even more special on a sunny day. But the interior is well worth seeing too, especially the Chapelle du St Sacrement with its neogothic mural paintings.

Good to know: The church is located in the heart of Colmar old town and only requires a few minutes. It’s, therefore, very easy to include in your itinerary. It’s free to enter and is open daily from 8 AM to 6.30 PM, except Sunday morning.

9. Dominican Church

The Église des Dominicains is another noteworthy church in Colmar. It’s more visited than the St. Martin’s Church, mainly because of the famous Madonna of the Rose Bush ( Maria im Rosenhag ) masterpiece painting by Martin Schongauer, a 15th-century Alsacian painter.

Dating from the 13-14th centuries, the Dominican Church in Colmar is an example of the mendicant orders architectural style. Also noteworthy are the beautiful and very well-preserved 14-15th century stained glass windows.

Good to know: The church is open daily in the morning and in the afternoon. There’s a small fee to visit inside.

10. Covered Market

If you are looking for a somewhat more local atmosphere and something different to do in Colmar, check out the Covered Market ( Marché couvert ). It’s located between the Tanner’s District and Little Venice. So you’ll inevitably pass here when sightseeing in Colmar.

The strategic location of the market directly by the Lauch River is not a coincidence. In the past, local farmers would bring their produce to the market directly from the fields using the traditional flat-bottomed boats.

Dating from 1865 and recently restored, the building exterior is quite impressive and nice to see, but the market is also worth a quick visit inside. Inside, you’ll find market stands selling fruit, vegetables, and all kinds of regional specialties.

TIP: Adjacent to the market and right above the river, there’s a nice outdoor restaurant, La Terrasse du Marché. It’s a lovely place for lunch, but it’s so small and so busy that you should probably reserve in advance on their website if you want to be sure to find a table here.

Good to know: The covered market is open daily except for Mondays. On Thursday, there’s an outside market as well.

11. Colmar Museums

In addition to the Unterlinden Museum mentioned above, there are quite a few other museums in Colmar. However, most people only visit Colmar for a day and have no time to explore them. I have to admit that – despite having visited Colmar on various occasions – we also haven’t seen them all…

That being said, if you have more time and are looking for more interesting things to do in Colmar, you may want to check out the following museums as well. It’s also something nice to do when visiting Colmar in winter when it’s cold and wet outside, or if you are looking to escape the summer crowds at the most popular attractions.

Here are some of the most interesting museums to visit in Colmar:

• Hansi Village and Museum. Located close to Maison des Têtes, this museum features artworks by the local 19-20th century artist Jean-Jacques Waltz, aka “Hansi”. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of Colmar through various artworks. More info on their website . This museum is included with the Alsace Pass .
• Bartholdi Museum. Located close to Maison Pfister, this is another noteworthy place to see in Colmar. This is the house where sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of New York’s Statue of Liberty, was born. Inside the museum, you can see the apartments and original furniture and personal items of the Bartholdi family, as well as several original statues that the artist created for the city of Colmar. More info on their website (in French).
• Musée du Jouet. Located just a bit off the main tourist area, but still very close to the main Colmar attractions, this is the Toy Museum . It’s well worth seeing even if you are on a short visit in town, and especially if visiting Colmar with kids. Located inside an old cinema building, this museum features an impressive collection of toys from the 1800s to today. Definitely not just for kids! This museum is also included with the Alsace Pass .
• Choco Story. There are many similar museums throughout Europe, but if you like chocolate, it’s always nice to visit. This is an interactive chocolate museum with several tastings included during your visit. It’s something fun to do in Colmar with kids, but adults will appreciate it too. You can opt for a regular ticket or join a chocolate-making workshop (see all options here ).

12. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is probably one of the most unusual attractions in Colmar. Located outside the city center, in the middle of a roundabout in an industrial area, it’s quite an unusual sight.

The reason why there’s a Statue of Liberty in Colmar is quite simple. The sculptor that made the world-famous statue that stands in New York City – Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi – was born in Colmar. This (much) smaller replica of the original statue was made to commemorate the 100 years after his death.

Good to know: You’ll need a car/ taxi/ bus if you want to see the Statue of Liberty (it’s about 45-60 minutes walk from the city center). There is a small parking nearby too, but since the statue is located in the middle of a busy roundabout, it’s not that simple to visit.

We once stopped here, took the trouble to park the car, cross the street, and get as close to the statue as possible. But it was low season, the traffic was quiet, and we were lucky to find a parking spot nearby. Once at the statue, there’s not that much to do, except for taking a few pictures.

So all in all, I’d say the Statue of Liberty in Colmar is interesting to see when driving into the city from the north, but I don’t think I’d go out of my way for it if you don’t have a car.

13. Traditional Alsace Food

One of the best things to do in Colmar is to taste some of the regional specialties – both, traditional local foods as well as the famous Alsace wines.

Here are just a few of the most typical dishes to try in the Alsace region :

• Choucroute à l’Alsacienne – Alsatian braised sauerkraut with mixed meats, sausages, and potatoes.
• Tarte flambée (Flammekueche) – a sort of Alsatian thin-crust pizza covered with white cheese or cream, thin-sliced onions, and lardons. These are the basic ingredients, and you can have all kinds of additional extras on top.
• Baeckaoffe – a casserole dish composed of several types of marinated meat and potatoes in white wine.
• Crêpe Alsacienne – all kinds of traditional pancakes.
• Foie gras – goose liver, a regional specialty invented in Strasbourg in 1780.
• Pain d´épices – traditional cake/bread.
• Bretzels – twisted dough bsicuits, sweet or salty. Somewhat similar, but not exactly the same as pretzels .
• Kougelhopf – sweet, bun-like cake with raisins.

READ ALSO: Traditional Dishes Not to Miss in France

14. Alsace Wines

No trip to Colmar would be complete without tasting some of the famous Alsace wines !

The best-known white wines such as Gewürztraminer , Riesling , Pinot Gris , Sylvaner ,… are traditionally served in a small round wine glass with a thin green stem. And be sure to also try Crémant d’Alsace , the sparkling wines of Alsace.

You’ll find regional wines in shops and restaurants all over Colmar. Of course, you can just try local wines with lunch or dinner, but it’s not the same experience as visiting a local wine house. So one of the things we recommend doing when visiting Colmar is taking an excursion to a local vineyard/wine cave , where you can learn more about winemaking, and of course, also taste and buy local wines.

If you have a car , it’s easy to find and visit local wine houses in the region on your own. However, unless you have a designated driver who doesn’t like wine, it’s probably not the best idea :). Also, if you just show up there, you’ll likely be able to taste one or two wines and buy them, but you won’t always get much explanation (if any at all in English…).

You can also rent bikes in Colmar and there’s even a ‘wine route’ that you can follow. But drinking wine and riding a bike is probably not the best solution either…

Another option – and probably the best one for tourists – is guided tours . If you are staying in Colmar and have an extra day, there are quite a few nice options to consider .

One of the very best (and with the most complete sightseeing itinerary) is this highly-rated Alsace day tour . It combines a visit to 4 of the nicest villages near Colmar, as well as wine tasting along the Alsace Wine Route. If you don’t have an entire day, check out this half-day wine tour instead.

15. Alsace Wine Route: most beautiful places to see near Colmar

While there’s a lot to see and do in Colmar town, its location in the heart of Alsace makes it an ideal jumping-off point for exploring some of the most picturesque villages and small towns nearby.

There is a lot to see and do near Colmar, but – unless you have a few weeks in the region – there’s no way to see it all. As a minimum, try to see at least a few of the most beautiful places along the famous Alsace Wine Route.

TIP: The best way to see several of these places in a day is by taking this 4-villages tour from Colmar. If you are visiting Colmar from Strasbourg, look for a tour that visits at least one or two of these places on the same day as well.

Some of the most beautiful places to see near Colmar (all these are part of the Alsace Wine Route):

• Eguisheim is one of the most beautiful small towns in France. Every street and every building in the old town is so picturesque that you can hardly believe that places like this exist for real. It’s especially beautiful in the summer when there are flowers everywhere, but we also visited it in winter and it was amazing too. Eguisheim is located just 7 km southwest of Colmar and you can get there by car, by bike, or with the above-mentioned tour. These tours also stop here.

LEARN MORE: What to See & Do in Eguisheim

• Kayserberg is another very picturesque village, just 11 km northwest of Colmar. With colorful half-timbered houses and an old Fortified Bridge, its old town is well worth seeing too. Kayserberg also hosts one of the nicest Christmas markets in the region. Be sure to climb the tower of Château du Schlossberg – the views from the top are well worth it! This tour from Strasbourg that visits Colmar includes a stop at Kayserberg as well.
• Riquewihr is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region. Surrounded by vineyards, the location is wonderful and probably one of the nicest in the region. But also the old town looks like a place from a fairytale book. This is a very picturesque town, one of the most impressive places you can visit near Colmar. Riquewihr is located slightly further away from Colmar – about 14 km. If you don’t have a car, the best way to visit is by bus (30 min ride) or with one of the tours .
• Ribeauvillé , just 5 km north of Riquewihr, is another popular town to see near Colmar. Also here, you’ll find picturesque cobbled streets lined with colorful half-timbered buildings and some very picturesque town squares and neighborhoods. The town is surrounded by vineyards, has a beautiful park, and there are also some impressive castles (ruins) in the nearby hills. From Colmar, the best way to get here is either by car, with the same bus that goes to Riquewihr (add 15 minutes to the ride), or with tours.
• Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Alsace. The castle is absolutely impressive, and the views from the top are incredible too. Since it doesn’t require that much time (we spent about 1 hour inside), it can be combined with the other places nearby. The castle is located about 30 km north of Colmar. The best way to visit is by car or with these tours .

LEARN MORE: Best Towns to See on the Alsace Wine Route

Tips & info for visiting Colmar

Best time to visit.

There is really no bad time to visit Colmar and every season has its charms . The most popular is, of course, the summer season when the town is even more picturesque because of the colorful flowers everywhere. There are also lots of events and celebrations in the summer. Early fall is a good time to visit the vineyards, although the harvest season also means that locals will be very busy and not as relaxed as in the summer.

Colmar also hosts some amazing Christmas markets , so December is a busy time to be here too. However, just before or after the Christmas season, Colmar is rather quiet. Some tourist-oriented businesses might be closed, but it remains quite a lively town at any time of the year.

TIP: For nicer weather and fewer crowds, visit Colmar in May-June or in September-early October. These months are in general the best time to visit Europe .

Getting there

Because of good railway connections, you can easily get to Colmar from any major city in France. Colmar can be easily reached by train from Strasbourg, and the ride takes just over half an hour.

As already mentioned, there are also organized tours from Strasbourg that visit Colmar and some other nice places nearby.

You can also easily visit Colmar by car , but keep in mind that parking is not always easy to find, especially in the peak season. We always drive and never had trouble finding parking not too far from the old town, but parking in the smaller towns nearby can be really challenging.

Getting around

Colmar town is quite compact and the best way to explore the city is on foot .

You can also take a tourist train or rent a bike . However, renting a bike is probably better if you are planning to visit the picturesque countryside, and not that much for the city itself.

TIP: A popular way to explore Colmar is by joining an organized segway tour of the main sights . You can cover a lot of ground in a short time and also visit some places that are a bit outside the main tourist routes.

How much time do you need

While you can see the main highlights of Colmar in half a day to a day, we recommend planning at least two days for the Colmar area : one day for the town itself and one day for the beautiful towns and vineyards nearby (such as the earlier-mentioned Eguisheim , one of the prettiest villages nearby).

But you can easily spend a week in Alsace and never get bored. Be sure to also visit Strasbourg !

Where to stay

There are lots of really nice hotels in Colmar, and also the surrounding area has plenty of beautiful accommodation options.

If you are traveling by car , look for a place that offers (affordable) parking!!! A nice choice for those who want to stay in Colmar town itself is Novotel Suites Colmar Center with its own underground parking garage, and just a very short walk from Little Venice.

If you are traveling by train , stay in the heart of the old town so that everything is within a short walking distance. You can easily book day tours to the nicest nearby places, so plan at least 2-3 nights here.

Here are some of the best hotels in Colmar city center for all budgets:

• €€€€€ Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes – a beautiful boutique hotel in a historic building.
• €€€€ Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal – Les Collectionneurs – a charming 4* hotel with a very good restaurant.
• €€€ Hotel Saint-Martin – located on Grand Rue, right in the center of all the action. Or Le Colombier in a bit quieter location close to Little Venice.
• €€ Colmar Hotel – a modern well-rated 3* hotel near the railway station.
• € Ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare – one of the best-rated lower-budget hotels in Colmar old town.

So, this is our guide to visiting Colmar in France. I hope that it helps you get a better idea of what to expect and plan your visit.

I also hope that it inspires you to spend more time in this beautiful region and explore it deeper!

Have a great trip!

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Thursday 12th of January 2023

Just was waiting to send a like on this post as you have beautiful mentioned the entire city . I am planning to visit it this april. So this blog was quite helpful. Anything else i should keep in mind while visiting Colmar?

Hi Ankita, glad to help. I'm not sure what kind of additional info you are looking for, so it's difficult to answer your question. Just enjoy it and be sure to try all kinds of local specialties (food/wine). Have a great trip!

Monday 21st of March 2022

Colmar old town is so attractive, thank you to share your photo and experience in Colmar. Definitely saving this email for future reference. Will I have trouble to communicate with local people, I only speak English.

Hi Portia, in general, French people don't speak English too well, but it depends on the place and on the people. :) In the popular tourist areas, you can always get by with English and a big smile. I wouldn't let something like a language barrier stop me from traveling anywhere in the world. You can always install one or another translate app for emergencies, but it's really not an issue most of the time. My own French isn't great either - it's never a problem.

Thanks! I just added it to my plans for 2023 :). We were already planning to travel through on our way from Basel to Strasbourg by train. I had no idea what a beautiful town we were going to miss!! I have just spent the last hour investigating what to do with luggage. Apparently there's no storage at the Colmar station, but there are a couple of services that will store luggage: maconsigne and nannybag. Have you had any experience with any of these?

Hi Esther, first - Colmar is just one of the many amazingly beautiful towns in that region. But indeed, one of the easiest to visit if traveling by train and a good stop between Basel and Strasbourg, but you can also visit for a day once you are already in Strasbourg if that's easier planning-wise. For the luggage, unfortunately, I have no experience with any such service. We always travel by car in France so can easily leave our luggage in the car.

13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Colmar

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Amid the vine-covered foothills of the southern Vosges Mountains , the picturesque town of Colmar offers an exceptional wealth of historic attractions. Colmar exudes a special old-world ambience, as it has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries. Wandering the ancient quarters takes you on a journey back in time.

During the medieval era, Colmar was an important marketplace, as well as a center of art and learning. The fascinating cultural heritage is visible in the town's historic residential buildings, as well as in the Catholic, Protestant, and Dominican houses of worship.

Colmar is one of the most quintessential Alsatian towns . You'll discover its charms in the Old Town's atmospheric pedestrian streets and canal-side neighborhoods. Everywhere you turn, you'll be dazzled by traditional Alsatian half-timbered houses, painted in candy colors and decorated with potted flowers.

This captivating town is the perfect place to visit to start exploring the Alsace region. Find the best things to do with our list of the top tourist attractions in Colmar.

See also: Where to Stay in Colmar

1. Old Town & Place de la Cathédrale

2. musée unterlinden, 3. eglise des dominicains, 4. koïfhus (ancienne douane), 5. quartier de la krutenau (la petite venise), 6. quartier des tanneurs, 7. quai de la poissonnerie, 8. eglise saint-martin, 9. eglise saint-matthieu, 10. musée du jouet de colmar, 11. ancien corps de garde (former guard house), 12. chapelle saint-pierre, 13. festival international de colmar, where to stay in colmar for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in colmar.

Seemingly right out of a storybook, the Old Town (Vieille Ville) of Colmar is a maze of winding cobblestone streets lined with typical Alsatian burghers' houses. This well-preserved historic center of town lies between the Rue des Têtes, the Rue des Clefs, and the Rue des Marchands near the Place de la Cathédrale .

The Quartier de la Krutenau and the Quartier des Tanneurs could also be considered part of the Old Town. However, the following description focuses on the center of the historic district.

You may begin a tour of Colmar at the Place de la Cathédrale , the very heart of Colmar's Old Town. On this square is the Collégiale Saint-Martin (Saint-Martin Collegiate Church), originally a Gothic church that was largely rebuilt in the 18th century.

Another historic monument on the Place de la Cathédrale is the Ancien Corps de Garde (Former Guard House) which has served many purposes, from a marketplace building to a justice hall and military housing. This historic edifice is a jewel of Alsatian Renaissance architecture.

The Maison Adolph also graces the square at 16 Place de la Cathédrale. Built in 1350 for the Adolph family, this lovely house is one of the oldest buildings in Colmar. Next to the Maison Adolph is a well featuring two lion heads that dates to 1592.

Continue sightseeing on the Grand Rue (a short walk away) and visit the Eglise Saint-Matthieu , a 13th-century Protestant church. A must-see attraction nearby is the Maison Pfister (11 Rue des Marchands), which dates to 1537 and is one of the first houses in Colmar to reveal elements of Renaissance architecture.

Steps away from the Maison Pfister, the Musée Bartholdi (30 Rue des Marchands) displays mementos of the famous sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. Nearby, the Rue des Boulangers (Bakers' street) and the Rue des Serruriers (Locksmiths' Street) are lined with attractive half-timbered buildings that house enticing little boutiques and cafés.

One of the most interesting places to visit in the Old Town is La Maison des Têtes at 19 Rue des Têtes. This ornate Renaissance building features a facade decorated with over a hundred different personages (small busts) sculpted from stone.

Listed as Monument Historique and restored in 2012, La Maison des Têtes has been converted into a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel with modern guest rooms; a traditional Alsatian brasserie ( Restaurant des Têtes ); and a Michelin-starred fine-dining establishment, the Restaurant Girardin .

This exceptional museum presents a diverse assortment of artworks in a 13th-century edifice (that was once a Dominican convent). The building is especially noteworthy for its beautifully preserved double-arcaded cloister. In 2015, the museum expanded its gallery space with an adjoining building that occupies the town's former municipal baths.

The Unterlinden Museum displays an extensive collection of Romanesque and Gothic sculptures, medieval religious paintings, folk art and crafts, and decorative objects. The museum's 20th- and 21st-century art collection includes works by Claude Monet, Pierre Bonnard, Fernand Léger, Maurice Denis, Nicolas de Staël, and Pablo Picasso.

One of the highlights of the museum is the Isenheim Chapel, which contains fine paintings by early German artists. The chief treasure of the chapel is the Retable d'Issenheim ( Altarpiece of Issenheim ), a masterpiece of religious art created around 1515 for the high altar of the Isenheim monastery (located near Guebwiller).

The museum's Café-Restaurant Schongauer serves refreshments, meals, and pâtisserie in a contemporary-style dining room or at the pleasant outdoor patio of a tree-lined courtyard. The museum also has a boutique that sells art-themed books and gift items.

Museum hours are 9am until 6pm Wednesday through Monday year-round; the museum is closed on Tuesdays. The Café-Restaurant Schongauer is open from 10am until 5pm Wednesday through Sunday year-round; the café-restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Address: 1 Rue d'Unterlinden, Colmar

Simple and serene, the 14th-century Eglise des Dominicains exemplifies early Gothic architecture. Enter the church to admire the narrow high-vaulted nave, adorned with exquisite works of art. Splendid stained-glass windows allow light to flow into the sanctuary and offer inspiration to worshipers.

The choir displays the famous Vierge au Buisson de Roses , a masterpiece created by the atelier of Martin Schongauer in 1473.

The church was founded by Dominican preachers, who contributed to the interest in mystical philosophy during the 14th and 15th centuries.

From the Dominican Church, it is a short walk to the Rue des Clefs , the main shopping street of Colmar's Old Town.

The church is open for touristic visits on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from March 25th through December 26th.

Address: Place des Dominicains, Colmar

Near the Place du Marché-aux-Fruits (the site of the old fruit market) and at the intersection of the Grand Rue and the Rue des Marchands, the Koïfhus had a strategic location in medieval times. This 15th-century building, also known as the Ancienne Douane ( Old Customs House ), was once the economic and political center of Colmar.

The ground floor functioned as a warehouse for goods and a place to collect taxes on imports and exports. The first floor was the council chamber for the Décapole, the federation of imperial cities. You can still see the coats of arms of the 10 cities on the windows.

The east side of the Koïfhus faces the Place de l'Ancienne Douane with a Bartholdi fountain commemorating the Imperial General Lazarus von Schwendi. The building also has two adjoining wings created in the 16th century and a distinctive tile roof, the result of a 19th-century renovation.

Today, the Koïfhus building hosts art exhibits, music concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year.

From the Koïfhus, you can easily reach the Grand Rue, one of the town's main thoroughfares that is lined with shops and restaurants.

Also just steps away from the Koïfhus is the Restaurant au Koïfhus , which serves traditional Alsatian cuisine in a cozy dining room or on the shaded outdoor terrace.

Address: Place de l'Ancienne Douane

Just past the Rue Saint Jean, the Krutenau Quarter is a picture-perfect neighborhood with canal-side restaurants, quaint pedestrian bridges, and colorful half-timbered houses. Lush greenery and willow trees line the river, while flourishing potted flowers decorate the waterfront houses.

This quarter is known as "La Petite Venise" ("Little Venice") because the houses are built right on the edge of the Lauch River canal, and small boats take passengers on scenic rides.

To soak up the enchanting ambience of Little Venice, begin a walking tour at the Rue de la Poissonnerie and continue along the canal until the Rue Turenne that traverses the quarter.

From the bridges on the canal, you can enjoy lovely views of the quarter's charming houses and the tower of Saint Martin's church in the distance.

A short stroll from the Old Customs House takes you to the Quartier des Tanneurs (the Tanners' Quarter). The aptly named quarter was where tanners created leather products. They would use upper floors of the houses to dry out the skins.

This picturesque neighborhood features cobblestone streets lined with wonderfully restored half-timbered houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The Petite Rue des Tanneurs and the Rue des Tanneurs are atmospheric streets brimming with lively restaurants and enticing boutiques. The quarter is also traversed by canals, adding to its charm.

Another must-see building in the Quartier des Tanneurs is the Maison des Chevaliers de Saint-Jean (House of the St. John's Knights) on the Rue Saint-Jean, built in the style of a Venetian palace and one of the most unusual Renaissance mansions in Alsace.

Address: Rue des Tanneurs, Colmar

The district around the Quai de la Poissonnerie is the old fishmonger's district. Centuries ago, professional fishermen were a powerful entity in Colmar and had a bustling business. They fished to the greatest extent possible and stored their catches in fish ponds until they were sold at the market.

This idyllic quarter of colorful half-timbered houses is found between the Quartier des Tanneurs and the Quartier de la Krutenau. Like the Quartier des Tanneurs, this historic area of Colmar is another vestige of the town's ancient professions.

This collegiate church was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and exemplifies Gothic style. The Saint Nicholas Doorway features an intricate design, and the High Gothic choir contains splendid 15th-century stained-glass windows and fine carved woodwork.

The residents of Colmar referred to this church as a cathedral for a long time. However, technically it was only a cathedral from 1790 to 1801, during the Revolution, when the laws of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy applied. Nonetheless, the architecture reflects the grandeur of a medieval cathedral.

The church is located in Colmar's Old Town (Vieux Colmar).

Address: Place de la Cathédrale, Colmar

This church has an austere style similar to the Dominican Church. It was constructed by the Franciscans beginning in 1292 and completed over a century later.

When the Franciscan monastery closed in 1543, the building was converted into a hospital. More recently, the church has been used for Protestant worship.

Today, the church is often used as a venue for music concerts because it has excellent acoustics. The Festival International de Colmar in July presents chamber music, symphonic concerts, and classical music recitals within the sanctuary of the Eglise Saint-Matthieu.

Address: 9 Grand Rue, Colmar

The Colmar Toy Museum displays over 1,000 toys created from the 19th century to the present day. Visitors are delighted by the assortment of dolls, stuffed animals, miniature train sets, model cars, rocking horses, and tricycles. There are also more modern items, such as robots, LEGO creations, and toys that encourage the discovery of science concepts.

Children will especially appreciate the games area, which allows interactive play. For many kids, one of the most amusing things to do at the museum is playing a game of giant checkers.

The museum hosts events, concerts, and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. At the museum's boutique, visitors can purchase toys, books, and games for kids of all ages. Favorite items include the Bukowski teddy bears and Norev model cars.

Address: 40 Rue Vauban, Colmar

Built on the site of the Chapel of Saint-Jacques that dates back to 1286, the former Guard House was established in 1575.

Try to spot the oriel window, where the decisions of the town council used to be announced. Another interesting feature of the building is the ornately decorated loggia, which is considered a gem of Renaissance architecture in the Upper Rhine area.

Nearby is the 14th-century Maison Adolph , the town's oldest surviving private house.

Address: 17 Place de la Cathédrale, Colmar

This lovely Baroque church was built by the Jesuits in the mid-18th century on the site of the 10th-century Saint Pierre priory.

The church stands beside a peaceful garden. At the center of the garden's courtyard is a monument created by the local sculptor Bartholdi dedicated to the Colmar physicist G. A. Hirn (1815-1890).

The church is found near the Quartier de la Krutenau past the Grand Rue.

Address: Boulevard du Général Leclerc, Colmar

The Festival International de Colmar gives classical music lovers a reason to visit Colmar during the first two weeks of July.

This renowned festival includes daytime chamber music concerts by composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Schumann, and evening soirées (orchestra performances or piano recitals) presenting pieces by Berlioz, Mozart, Brahms, Mendelssohn, and others.

Performances take place at the 18th-century Chapelle Saint-Pierre and the 14th-century Eglise Saint-Matthieu .

The best area to stay in Colmar is in or near the Old Town, which is within walking distance to most of the top attractions, including the Musée Unterlinden, Eglise des Dominicains, Koïfhus, and Little Venice. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

• In Petite Venise, the chic four-star Hôtel Le Colombier occupies a Renaissance-era building that has been renovated in sleek contemporary style. Guest rooms feature minimalistic decor and modern amenities such as Nespresso coffee machines and flat-screen televisions.
• The boutique four-star Hôtel Le Maréchal in Petite Venise occupies a 15th-century Alsatian house adorned with potted flowers on the windowsills. In keeping with the traditional style of the building, the guest rooms are outfitted with old-fashioned bedding and decor.
• La Maison des Têtes is a listed Historic Monument in the heart of the Old Town. The Renaissance-era building has been converted into a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant. Guest rooms feature modern decor and original wood-beamed ceilings.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A renovated 14th-century townhouse was converted to the three-star Hôtel Saint-Martin , at the center of the Old Town near the Grand Rue and the Koïfhus. Most of the guest rooms are decorated in traditional Alsatian style with updated bathrooms.
• In the Old Town, just a five-minute walk from Petite Venise, the three-star Hôtel Turenne provides stylish modern guest rooms. Amenities include a lounge area and a wellness center with saunas and spa services.
• About a 10-minute walk to the Old Town, the sleek and modern ibis Colmar Centre offers clean, compact rooms. This three-star hotel has a 24-hour front desk and a lounge area.

Budget Hotels:

• If you are touring the region in a car, the Comfort Hotel Expo Colmar is a good choice. This modern three-star hotel is only a five-minute drive to the Old Town. The decor has an artistic flair.
• The Paul & Pia Welcome Home Hotel is within walking distance of the Old Town, as well as the train station. This three-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and an on-site restaurant.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Colmar is an ideal place to begin a tour of the beautiful Alsace region in eastern France bordering Germany . Tourists will enjoy visiting the important historic towns, such as Strasbourg , Obernai, and Sélestat. It's also delightful to experience the region's quaint country charm, by venturing out into the hills, where storybook hamlets and picture-perfect villages dot the idyllic landscape.

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Colmar (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Colmar (France)

If you’ve ever wondered what a an Alsatian city might have looked like in all its medieval glory, Colmar is your answer.

The old town has been left untouched for hundreds of years and looks like a theme park, except the timber houses and palaces are completely real and original.

Go on a guided tour or get hold of an itinerary from the tourist office to help you discover 16th-century merchants’ houses or renaissance civic buildings, and then hit the Musée d’Unterlinden where the masterpieces that the city commissioned will blow you away.

Then set off into the countryside to discover Alsace’s amazing white wines and experience the fabled natural beauty of the Vosges Mountains.

Lets explore the best things to do in Colmar :

1. Old Town

Colmar’s old quarter is as complete as it is lovely, with street after street of corbelled wooden houses and sophisticated renaissance palaces decorated with flowers.

The city avoided all of the conflicts that damaged many other French cities and remains a protected picture-book example of old Alsace.

Colmar’s history is so rich and complex that a guided tour is the only answer if you want to fully understand everything you see.

The city even organises guided walks to help you identify the meaning of all the coats of arms on display.

And if you’re with the whole clan then you could catch the two tourist trains, which offer headphones and commentary in 14 different languages.

2. Musée d’Unterlinden

A beautiful 13th-century Dominican convent is the location for one of France’s best regional museums.

Here you can uncover seven millennia of history and savour the artistic wealth of the Rhineland’s late- gothic and renaissance era.

This is epitomised by the masterful Isenheim Altarpiece, a 500-year-old polyptych painted by Matthias Grünewald and Niclaus of Hagenau.

There’s also a Gallo-Roman mosaic, romanesque capitals, paintings by Hans Holbein and Schongauer, engravings by Albrecht Dürer, a stunning 17th-century painted harpsichord and a new contemporary wing with works by Picasso, Renoir, Braque and Monet.

3. Little Venice

South of the centre, where the Lauch River diverges from its canal, is a picturesque little quarter in which tanners, winemakers and fishmongers used to make their homes by the water.

The river is crossed by two charming bridges, on which you can look across to the rows of half-timbered houses opposite Colmar’s old covered market.

On the right bank of the river is Krutenau, a once fortified suburb of Colmar where the city’s market gardeners used to live.

Brief boat trips through this unforgettable setting are available from the quay.

4. Maison Pfister

In a city of sublime Disney-esque houses Maison Pfister takes the cake.

It was constructed for the wealthy hatter Ludwig Schurer in 1537 and is implausibly cute and grand at the same time.

You’ll be stopped in your tracks when you see this marvel of Alsatian renaissance architecture.

Note the turreted spiral stairway, the corbelled wooden gallery on the third floor, the 16th-century frescoes and medallions on the facade, the arcade on the lower floor and the marvellous two-storey bay window, to name but a few.

Colmar’s oldest civic building is its former customs house that was completed in 1490 and was both the economic and administrative fulcrum of the city.

On the first floor of the southernmost building is the stately boardroom where the Décapole would meet: This was a federation of Alsace’s ten Free Cities that lasted until 1679. The room is decorated with ornamental weapons forged in each city and has beautiful mullioned windows on three sides.

Below, on the ground floor is the warehouse where goods for import and export would be taxed.

Outside you have to stand back to admire the diamond pattern of varnished tiles on the roof, which is a trademark of renaissance building in eastern France.

6. Musée Bartholdi

The 19th-centuru sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was the man who gave the world the Statue of Liberty and also designed two of France’s emblems, the monumental Lion of Belfort and the statue of Vercongetorix in Clermont-Ferrand.

Musée Bartholdi is at his birthplace on Rue Des Marchands and has curated preparatory models for his major works: So you can see the early stages of both his lion and Liberty, as well as his many sculptures around Colmar, like the statue of General Rapp, the Schwendi Fountain and the statue of Maertin Schongauer the pioneering German printmaker, born in Colmar in the 15th century.

Also in this building is an exhibit about Alsace’s historic Jewish community, with an ark, cabinet and carved stone fountain from the 1600s and 1700s.

7. La Maison des Têtes

This lovely German renaissance palace gets its name from the 106 carved stone heads on its facade and has just been restored.

The palace was built for Anton Burger, a well-heeled merchant who was also Colmar’s mayor at the start of the 17th century.

Starting at the top, the statue crowning the building’s ornate gable depicts the Tonnelier (cooper) de Colmar a city symbol, and was designed by Bartholdi and placed there in 1902. Something peculiar about the La Maison des Têtes, is the windows, which have different widths and irregular positions on the facade.

8. Presbytère Protestant de Colmar

Another German renaissance wonder awaits you on Grand Rue, and was erected in 1606 as a home for protestant ministers next door to their Church of Saint-Matthieu.

On the ground floor is an arcade with ten arches, now taken up by shops and restaurants.

At the corners check out the three-storey-high bay windows supported by cantilevers, which have an octagonal shape, are capped with a pointed roof and almost resemble defensive turrets.

Finally come round to the church side to appreciate the Dutch gable.

9. Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar

This gothic church that went up between the 13th and 14th centuries is popularly known as Colmar’s cathedral.

Strictly it’s never been a cathedral apart from for 10 years at the end of the 18th-century on the back of the French Revolution.

Outside you can admire the typical diamond pattern on the glazed roof and the historic noon mark sundial that denotes midday.

The tympanums on the south and west portals are a joy too.

Inside there’s a late-gothic sculpture of the Last Supper and a rococo organ case added in 1755.

10. Schwendi Fountain

Behind the Koïfhus on Place de l’Ancienne-Douane is one of Colmar’s monuments designed and crafted by Bartholdi.

It depicts the Austrian Holy Roman Empire commander Lazarus von Schwendi, who held sway in the 16th century from the Château du Hohlandsbourg a few kilometres west of the city.

The story goes that it was Schwendi who brought the pinot gris wine grape to Alsace after a campaign against the Ottomans in Hungary, which explains why he’s holding a bundle of vines aloft in his right hand.

11. Musée du Jouet de Colmar

For more than 25 years Colmar’s former cinema has been filled with toys and models that date back to the 1800s and has childhood treasures from every era.

So no matter how old you are you can revisit your childhood with this nostalgic assortment of video game consoles from the 80s and 90s (game gear and NES), meccano buildings, dolls, Barbie dolls, Playmobil sets and robots.

The second level is the pièce de résistance, where there’s a labyrinthine working model railway network that takes up the whole floor and measures 120 square metres.

12. Maison Adolph

On Place de la Cathédrale you can feast your eyes on what is most likely the oldest building in the city.

It dates to 1350 and differs from Colmar’s later houses thanks to the gothic arched windows, which show the influence of religious architecture on secular buildings at this time.

These are the building’s oldest features, but there are other bits to spot, like the 16th-century bracket above the well out front, with carved lion heads.

13. Ballons des Vosges – Gazon du Faing

Ever visible on the horizon to the west, the curved granite peaks of the Vosges mountain range are sure to whet your appetite for outdoor adventure.

The lower reaches are rolling vineyards, and further up you can drive, walk or ride through woodland and highland pasture.

The smooth peaks help make the terrain navigable for all walkers, but there’s also a large network of country lanes that you could use to drive to sights like the epic Gazon du Faing peak, above the Lac Noir, a majestic lake surrounded by a bowl of steep mountainsides and cliffs.

14. Alsatian Wine Route

Even closer is Alsace’s wine country, where achingly pretty villages and castles are set in a fresh green landscape of vineyards that grow the region’s renowned white grape varieties.

The Alsatian Wine Route is 170 kilometres long and allows you to delve as deeply as possible into Alsace’s wine culture, meeting wine-growers, visiting caves and tasting some of the finest Rieslings you’ll ever know.

As well as the dry Rieslings there also sweet varieties like Muscat and the trademark Gewürztraminer.

On your journey spend some time in villages like Riquewihr, which is packed with half-timbered houses and still shielded by its medieval walls.

15. Cuisine

Alsatian food is a tempting blend of French and German flavours, which gives you delicacies like the “bretzel” a pretzel with melted cheese.

Desserts and cakes are also a forte here, so try kugelhopf, a sponge cake baked with raisins, almonds and cherry brandy.

For a main course, the ultimate partner for riesling is choucroute, the Alsatian version of sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage served with cuts of pork and usually three different types of sausage.

And for a satisfying snack try tarte flambée, rolled dough with fromage frais, onion and bacon.

15 Best Things to Do in Colmar (France):

• Musée d'Unterlinden
• Little Venice
• Maison Pfister
• Musée Bartholdi
• La Maison des Têtes
• Presbytère Protestant de Colmar
• Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar
• Schwendi Fountain
• Musée du Jouet de Colmar
• Maison Adolph
• Ballons des Vosges - Gazon du Faing
• Alsatian Wine Route

Home » Europe » France » A Complete Guide to Colmar–France’s Enchanting Medieval City

A Complete Guide to Colmar–France’s Enchanting Medieval City

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: November 2, 2023

Dazzling colors, canals, the wonder of half-timbered buildings that look like a perfect illustration—these are the things of Colmar, France. Its streets meander into tiny alleys and then open into small squares used by traders and merchants centuries ago. Its mostly pedestrian center is a festival of brightly tiled roofs and even brighter facades, welcoming the curious. Many visitors blitz through this lovely city on a day trip or a brief shore excursion, but there are so many things to do in Colmar that many can get overlooked on such a short visit. I know because that’s how we first visited Colmar.

We had our first taste of Colmar over a decade ago on a quick day trip from Basel, Switzerland. In just a few hours, the city won us over.

Since then, we’ve enjoyed coming back many times and digging a little deeper into what to do in Colmar.

This corner of France, known as Alsace, has changed hands several times with Germany over the centuries. As a result, Colmar and nearby small French towns have a distinctive culture all their own influenced by those who have claimed the region. From language to food to architecture, everything is a little French and a little German.

Remarkably, the city’s historic beauty was preserved during World War II, so its tiled roofs, cobbled lanes, and centuries’ old buildings are around for us to marvel at today. We’ve spent a lot of time wandering the beautiful streets and uncovering all the fun things to do in Colmar, France. Here’s what we’ve discovered about what to do, where to stay, and what to eat in this charming city.

Things to do in Colmar

Visit petite venise, visit st. martin’s church, cruise the canal, shop at the covered market, hang out in a park, take a coffee break, see the city, see the works at musee bartholdi, try alsace wine, see the pfister house paintings, ride the tourist train, try alsatian food, appreciate art at unterlinden museum, explore the alsace wine route, play at the toy museum of colmar, see the statue of liberty, visit the christmas market, when to visit colmar, where to stay, where to eat in colmar, how to get here.

No matter how much time you have, Petite Venise (Little Venice) is an absolute must see. This stretch of half-timbered buildings along the canal is certainly one of the most picturesque views in Colmar . Walking along here, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve stepped into the middle of a fairytale or a scene from Disney. But there’s nothing Disneyfied about it—the sherbet-colored rustic homes and businesses along the water have been this way for 400 years or more, although they’re probably a little brighter now.

In the Middle Ages, the river Lauch was redirected to the center of Colmar to supply water to the town for drinking and business. The surrounding area—as the street names indicate—was home to the butchers, tanners, and fishmongers, and the water helped power the businesses and move goods around. Even the market hall has steps going down to the water to receive items being transported.

Pop into the shops along the street and sample some traditional Alsatian biscuits and local charcuterie. Or just lean against the railing and watch for a while because this must be one of the most beautiful settings in all of France .

The decorations on this beautiful stretch of canal change with the seasons—flowers in the spring, lights and trees at Christmas. No matter the time of year, it’s a happy place.

If you’re spending the evening in Colmar, come by again at night when the crowds have dissipated and the buildings are lit up. At any time of day, a stop here is one of the best things to do in Alsace.

Wondering where to stay? Five-star Luxury and Service: La Maison des Tetes Views of Petite Venise: Le Colombier Convenience and comfort: Hotel Saint Martin You’ll find more details about where to stay at the end of this article .

The soaring St. Martin’s Church occupies a place in Colmar city center that has been home to a church for at least 1000 years. The current Gothic-style building, which was built between 1234 and 1365, is constructed of gleaming red and gold stone and topped with a red, yellow, and green tiled roof, characteristic of some of the oldest buildings in town.

Inside St. Martin’s Church, treasures abound from the 13th-century stained glass to the Baroque organ case dating from 1755. One of the church’s greatest works, the Isenmann alterpiece, is now at the nearby Unterlinden Museum. The seven surviving wooden panels by Caspar Isenmann that depict the life of Jesus are elegantly displayed there.

Piling into one of the flat-bottomed boats in Petite Venise presents a unique way to view the old town. On the canal, you’ll glide under the willows, beside the flowerboxes, and past the city’s lovely houses on a wooden boat powered by a silent motor. While the route doesn’t present the excitement of a canal cruise in Amsterdam, for instance, it is peaceful and a nice break from walking.

The boats depart with 7-9 guests at the bridge Saint Pierre next to Restaurant Le Caveau Saint-Pierre. The half-hour cruise is €8 per person. Sit in the front of the boat for the best views.

Markets are my happy place. From Italy to Ecuador , I visit them around the world at every opportunity and even planned a trip based on the schedule of the markets in Provence, France . It goes without saying that visiting the covered market is one of the top things to do in Colmar.

The red and orange building on the edge of Petite Venise was designed in 1865. Today, it is home to about 20 merchants providing all the good olive oil, ripe cheese, and perfect produce you’d expect for a French city. There are several café options in the market where you can try the dishes of the day. In nice weather, canal-side seating with a glass of Alsatian wine makes for a lovely lunch spot.

Unlike many Europeans cities, Colmar doesn’t really have a main square for hanging out and people watching. There are many outdoor cafes along Grand Rue, bars and restaurants to enjoy the sun in Place de l’Ancienne Douane, and spots along the canal, but most of the lounging happens in the parks.

A block off Grand Rue near St. Matthieu’s Church, you’ll find Square de la Montagne Verte. With unique sculptures and lots of benches and green space, it’s a great place to relax in the heart of the city.

About a half-mile away (closer to the train station), the much larger Champ de Mars park is one of the most popular places in the city. That’s where you’ll find locals hanging out by the fountain along with children enjoying the carousel, playing on the playground, and generally having a good time until the sun goes down.

Colmar doesn’t lack for places to pause and enjoy the view. Throughout the Colmar old town, many restaurants have outdoor seating with views of the churches or surrounding Medieval buildings. On a nice day, pull up a seat anywhere you can find one and enjoy a glass of crémant or a meal outside. My favorite cozy spot is Cafe de la Lauch , which has a welcoming interior and a patio.

Colmar feels like an open-air museum. There are so many stunning buildings to see everywhere you look. Follow the golden triangles on the sidewalk that are emblazoned with the head of the Statue of Liberty, and you’ll see many Colmar attractions that are well sign-posted.

In many instances, the houses themselves are a highlight. These gorgeous half-timbered structures were once considered budget construction, made of beams, straw, mud, and timbers treated with ox blood to make them waterproof. Today, they’re one of the city’s biggest tourist draws and are one of the reasons we keep coming back to visit.

To see the city with an expert, check out this private guided tour .

Don’t miss the Customs House (Koifhus), which was the center of the action during Colmar’s trading heyday in the Middle Ages. As the head of a trading league, the city was a seat of wealth and power, overseen directly by the Holy Roman Emperor.

Through the archway of the Customs House, Place de l’Ancienne Douane was the center of business in Colmar. This area is surrounded by half-timber merchant houses and has a fountain at its center. The plaza often hosts festivals, wine tastings, and fairs, like the Easter markets happening during one of our visits.

Several blocks away is the Adolph House. One of the oldest in Colmar, it was built around 1350, which blows my mind. The third story and half-timbered gable were added in the 1500s.

Colmar’s most famous son, Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, has a museum dedicated to his sculptures located in the home where he was born. Most renowned for his work as the creator of the Statue of Liberty, Bartholdi also made numerous other sculptures, fountains, and large-scale pieces throughout his 50-year career.

The three-story Bartholdi Museum (Musee Bartholdi) includes models and sketches of the artist’s major works such as the Statue of Liberty and the Lion of Belfort as well as works like the Schwendi Fountain, which can be seen at Place de l’Ancienne Douane.

You can also visit the Bartholdi family’s living quarters which have the family’s furniture and the artist’s personal items. Because of the level of detail, this museum is best suited for those with a deep interest in the artist and his work.

Alsace has been famous for its white wines for hundreds of years. Alsatian wines are named for their grape varietals—unlike wines in Provence , which are usually named for villages, or wines in Bordeaux , which are named after châteaux. You’ll find Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat alongside the local sparkling wine called Crémant d’Alsace.

In the summer, there are often wine tastings, or you can stop at one of the wineries conveniently located in the center of town. We had the chance to visit Domaine Karcher , a family-run vineyard that has made wines in Alsace for over 60 years. Their 10 hectares of vines are 20 minutes away by tractor (they really do travel that way), but the wine-making and aging happens in Colmar.

During our 45-minute-long tasting, we saw the barrel aging cellar and tried three wines—the crémant, a pinot gris, and a late harvest gewürztraminer. Crémant K Brut (like the crémant I recently tried in Luxembourg ), is produced using the same process as Champagne and is aged for 18-24 months. The medium-dry pinot gris was easy drinking. The late harvest gewürztraminer—all harvested by hand—was sweet, fruity, and a delicious compliment to the drier wines. If you have a little spare time, it’s worth it to do a proper tasting.

Built in 1537, the Pfister House stands out from the half-timbered houses in Colmar. With its painted facade, wrap-around wooden gallery, and octagonal turret, the house was a dramatic display of wealth in the 16th century and still attracts the attention of passersby today.

An example of renaissance humanism, the Pfister house is one of the symbols of the old Colmar. The wine store on the ground floor is a great stop to try some of the best Alsatian wines.

Colmar has two competing tourist trains—one green and the other white. Every half-hour, they make a 35-minute loop through the heart of town giving visitors a look at everything that makes this city so special.

Along the train ride, you’ll hear a bit of narration available in more than a dozen languages. This is a great option for those traveling with children or those who just want to save a bit of wear and tear on their feet. Both trains leave from the Unterlinden Museum 9:00am-6:30pm (shorter hours in winter).

The German influence on Alsatian cuisine is clear from the potatoes and pretzels to the sauerkraut and sausage. Around town, you’ll see rösti (an oven-baked potato-and-cheese dish), Alsatian Baeckeoffe (a casserole of meats, potatoes, onions, and other vegetables), and spätzle of the kind you typically find on tables in Germany or Austria.

There’s also plenty of foie gras, poulet au Riesling (chicken cooked in Riesling wine), and quiche. Because, France. Also popular are Munster cheese and tarte flambée (aka flammkuchen), a thin crust pizza which is found all over town and is a great option for lunch or a light dinner.

There are no fewer than three Michelin starred restaurants in Colmar, so there are plenty of good eats available. For something less fancy, the options in the center of town near the Customs House are surprisingly good.

The magnificent Unterlinden Museum covers nearly 7000 years of history. From prehistoric times to contemporary works, there’s not much the museum doesn’t touch on. There are exhibits on Medieval winemaking, Alsatian cultural artifacts, and ancient mosaics as well as works by artists such as Lucas Cranach , Martin Schongauer, and even Monet.

The star of the show is the Isenheim Altarpiece. Dating from 1515, the two-sided painting is done on hinged panels that the priests could move depending in the season. The effect is a rich, beautiful painting that feels a bit like a “choose your own adventure story,” only with Jesus at the center.

In addition to the displayed works, the museum itself is something of a work of art. The primary area, which houses the Altarpiece, is a 13th-century Dominican convent and chapel with a lovely center courtyard. It all seems quite appropriate considering the religious subject matter of most of the art. There’s also an underground gallery and a wing for displaying modern art and temporary exhibits.

For even more winding lanes and half-timbered buildings, take a day trip to some of the nearby towns along the Alsace wine route .

Just seven kilometers away, an easy bike ride (bikes can be rented at the Colmar train station) will deposit you in the town of Eguisheim. This little wine town was once named France’s favorite town, and it’s easy to see why when you stroll its circular path. With just 1500 people, it has 33 wineries, most of which you can easily pop into for a free tasting.

With a car, you can go a little further afield as we did, taking a trip that’s one of the best things to do in France.

Stop in Eguisheim, using the convenient parking on the outskirts of the town center. From there, consider stops in Kaysersberg and Riquewihr, at a minimum. Both cities—just a few miles from each other—are lined with ancient, colorful buildings, flowers galore, and plenty of places with good food and good wine. Thanks to the easy driving through the vineyards, the short distances, and the beautiful scenery, this is one of the cutest and simplest day trips from Colmar.

Tip: If you’re interested in renting a car, limit yourself to the Avis at the train station. Other rental car agencies are located farther out but can be difficult to reach. (Pro tip: We have a whole article about renting cars and driving in France , which may help you!)

Skip the driving altogether, and take a small-group day tour of the Alsace wine route .

Dolls, cars, puppets, games, and more delight visitors of any age at the Toy Museum of Colmar . The exhibits—housed in what was once a movie theater—give in-depth information on the toys’ history, often stretching back a century.

From vintage teddy bears to original Barbie dolls to board games and video games, the space has lots to see and reminisce about. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits while adults are reminded of the toys that marked their childhood. I was a bit nostalgic at the bedroom full of toys and gadgets from the 1980s and early ‘90s that looked like my own elementary school collection. Train aficionados will love the half-mile-long train display on the second floor, too.

About 2 miles from the historic center, you’ll find one of Colmar’s most unique attractions—a Statue of Liberty. The 39-foot-tall statue honors its sculptor Bartholdi in a big way.

The Statue of Liberty is in the middle of a roundabout at the north end of town. If you’re arriving from the Colmar airport or Strasbourg , it’s easy to spot at the intersection of D83 and Rue Curie.

At Christmas, all of Colmar becomes part of the Christmas market . Throughout the historic center, there are carnival rides, cooking demonstrations, Christmas trees, and thousands and thousands of glittering lights illuminating the half-timber. You’ll find lots of hot chocolate, mulled wine, and plenty of sweet and savory treats.

The Christmas market runs for about 5 weeks, from the last week of November through December 30. Technically, the market has six separate parts, though they all seem to run together into one giant celebration. It’s a magical time to be in the city.

There seems to be something fun going on most weekends of the year. From mid-March through mid-April, the Easter markets dominate the heart of the old city. In July, the Colmar International Festival brings stars from the classical music world. In December, the storybook city comes to life with the glory of the Christmas markets, which are some of the most popular in Europe.

In between the bigger fairs and festivals, there are concerts, celebrations of Alsatian culture, wine tastings, and more. The result is that there’s almost no bad time to visit Colmar. It’s worth noting that November and January are the quietest months, and January may find some businesses closed after the activity of the Christmas season.

There are so many great places to stay in the heart of the city.

La Maison des Tetes –This five-star hotel features 21 plush rooms located in an historic monument building that dates from 1609. Its brasserie and restaurant are also highly rated ( Check reviews and book a room ).

Le Colombier –In the heart of Petite Venise, this hotel offers 33 air conditioned rooms and suites. It’s hard to find better views in town ( Check reviews and book a room ).

Hotel Saint Martin –In the city center, the Hotel Saint Martin offers the convenience of an ideal location and clean, comfortable rooms ( Check reviews and book a room ).

The city is full of good eats at different price points.

Restaurant JY’s –With two Michelin stars, Restaurant JYS is one of the very best restaurants in Alsace and a must-visit destination for food lovers. It’s also situated right in the heart of Petite Venise.

Le Caveau Saint Pierre –With great tarte flambée and other Alsatian food, Le Caveau Saint Pierre is a great option for a quick lunch or filling dinner.

Koifhus Winstub –A large selection of meats, fish, and other traditional dishes are offered up by this well-priced eatery in the middle of old town. Grab a seat outside, if the weather allows.

Brasserie Schwendi –This Alsatian restaurant in the center of town offers rosti, tarte flambée, and many other solid choices. There is lots of seating outside and inside.

Le Palmyre – Le Palmyre offers a great change of pace with Lebanese and Syrian specialties. Their meze plates and falafel are delicious.

Colmar, a city in northeastern France, is located near the borders of Germany and Switzerland.

From Paris : Colmar is 2 hours 20 minutes east of Paris on the TGV train. Many of the Paris to Colmar train routes require an easy switch in Strasbourg to a local train (about 2 hours 40 minutes, total), but there are some direct TGV options. From Basel : The trip from Basel Mulhouse Freiburg airport—which serves France, Germany, and Switzerland—is about 45 minutes.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Sunday 29th of October 2023

Is December a good time to visit Colmar? Also, is half a day enough? I'm not interested in museums, parks, or churches. I'm thinking of doing Colmar and Mulhouse in 1 day.

Laura Longwell

December is a great time to visit. Much of the town will be taken over by the Christmas market. If you just want to see the market and walk around and look at buildings, a half-day may be enough for you.

Thursday 22nd of June 2023

Are there Ubers available to take you to some of the close towns?

I have not personally tried it and wouldn't due to limited availability. Taxis could be a possibility. However, if you took a cab to Eguisheim, for example, it would likely drop you off and then return to Colmar. You would have to then call it to come pick you up and would likely be charged from the time it leaves Colmar.

Saturday 11th of February 2023

We are undecided about renting a car to take us to Colmar for out three day stay there in late April (and then on to our last week in Italy). Is it possible to get to the vineyards for wine tasting without a car? We are not really interested in booking wine tours with a group.

Thursday 16th of February 2023

It depends on how many wineries you want to visit and where you want to go. For instance, Domaine Karcher is right in Colmar and easy to walk to. If you only want to visit one other town like Eguisheim or Riquewihr, taking the bus might be a reasonable option. If you're looking to fully explore the Alsace wine route, a car will be much more efficient. Generally speaking, it takes about twice as long to get to a given town each way by bus than it would if you drove yourself directly.

Budhianto Wirawan

Monday 6th of February 2023

Interested in Colmar after having read your writing. Is it a good time to visit Colmar in the 4th week of September for 2 nights /3 days?

Thank you so much.

Tuesday 7th of February 2023

I don't think there's ever a bad time to visit Colmar.

Natalie Ann Tan

Sunday 5th of February 2023

Hi, I have just chanced on your very informative blog. We will be staying in Colmar for 1.5 days in June, and have booked our accommodation at Le Marechal. Looking at your recommendations, we should really make some time to walk around, do the river cruise and the Unterlinden Museum. We will be heading south the following day. Do you think it is reasonable to try to fit in Eguisheim and Kayserberg, or would it be pushing it? Thanks so much 😊

It would be busy, but I think it's possible to visit all three in 1.5 days, especially since you'll have a reasonably late sunset in June. So much of experiencing all three towns is about enjoying the atmosphere and beautiful buildings, so more daylight is always better. I would allocate the least amount of time to Eguisheim--it's lovely, but there will probably be a little more going on in Kaysersberg and it's bigger.

• Architectural héritage
• Alsatian folklore

• Guided tours
• Guided tours for groups
• Little city trains
• Trips and cruises
• Visit on a little boat
• Kut’zig open-top bus
• Colmar city Pass

• Children & families
• Shopping & crafts

• Visitors - Social Wall
• Fashion Shooting
• City breaks

• Holidays Residences

• Furnished rentals
• Bed and breakfast

• Youth hostels

• A city renowned for its gastronomy
• Restaurants
• Gourmet lexicon
• Cooking class

• Colmar, the Alsatian wine capital
• The Alsatian wine route
• The wine festivals
• Winemakers contacts
• Colmar Winemakers

• Local products shopping
• Markets agenda
• The covered Market
• Craft breweries
• Tea Rooms, Bars and Cafés

• Colmar, a city full of events
• Event calendar
• Christmas Markets
• Colmar International classical Music Festival
• Colmar celebrates Spring

• Theme parks
• Animal parks
• The castles

• Sports activities
• Regional nature parc
• Swimming places
• Parcs and gardens

• Contemporary art
• Public Libraries

• How to travel to Colmar
• Taxis in Colmar
• Public transport
• Colmar by bike
• Bike / Segway / Solex rentals

• Booklets & pdf maps
• Satisfaction survey
• Luggage storage
• TOURISM QUALITY

• Your Personal Road Book
• Tourism and disability
• Games room and video games

Discover Colmar

An endearing and unique "country town"., #visitcolmar #colmarandyou.

Colmar, the most Alsatian city of Alsace!

Nestled among vineyards, its traditional houses, canals, floral displays, amazing cuisine, famous wines and charming accommodation make Colmar an outstanding microcosm of Alsace – showcasing its lifestyle, conviviality and hospitality – the key features of its unique, exceptional welcome. The capital of the Alsacian wines, situated near Germany and Switzerland between the Vosges and the Rhine, Strasbourg and Mulhouse, offers visitors an exciting glimpse of 1000 years of European history. Besides, with its 67,000 inhabitants, Colmar retains a 'country town' atmosphere which contributes so much to its charm. Wonderfully preserved from the ravages of time, its homogenous historical centre is classed as a 'protected area' and has benefited from careful restoration and ongoing improvements for more than 20 years.

 Every season, it offers a richly diverse range of cultural, sporting, nature, relaxation, and culinary enjoyments.

You will be easily tempted by this enchanting "country town".

Colmar will also delight you with the quality of its shops and boutiques that will allow you bring a small part of Alsace back with you in your luggage! In every street of the historic centre you will find shops upon shops offering "made in Alsace" products: food, table accents, textiles, déco, accessories, soft furnishings...

Colmar in a few key figures

Prefecture of the Upper Rhine (68)

Population :

Famous for its half-timbered houses, Colmar's remarkable merchants' homes also do not fail to impress. Famous among them is the Adolf house, the oldest in Colmar, and the Pfister house dating from the 16th century with its ornate angelled oriel, richly painted murals and long wooden gallery. And don't miss the majestic House of Heads built in the 17th century in German Renaissance style, decorated with 111 masks and a magnificent 3-storey oriel. All of them contributing to the uniqueness of Colmar.

Stroll through Colmar's vast pedestrianized zone, a listed "protected sector", enjoy its rich perfectly preserved religious and secular heritage, taking you from the Middle Ages to the 18th century: from "Little Venice" which has become the "must" venue for photographers the world over, to the Tanners district recognisable by its grand white-fronted houses. Don't miss its majestic "Collégiale" St Martin's Church with its astonishing Gothic architectural details and colours.

The magic of lights

All year round, an original lighting concept.

1100 computer-driven light sources, using the fibre optics cable network, are skilfully distributed throughout the town and thus allow an original light show throughout the year, which varies in intensity and colour.

Like a magic paintbrush, it redraws the town, applying fresh contours and new reliefs, enhancing a thousand and one architectural details.

The town is illuminated from nightfall on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the whole year, and every evening during major events marking the life in Colmar : the International Festival, Regional Alsace Wine Fair and Christmas in Colmar.

Instagram & Twitter : #VisitColmar #ColmarandYou

The tastefull wine capital of alsace.

As the gateway to Switzerland and Germany, Colmar Wine Country is the Capital of Alsace Wines and a unique tourist destination in the heart of the Alsace wine growing region.With vastly contrasting terrain, from plains to slopes and mountains, it boasts 37 wine-growing communities and 30 Grands Crus.

Colmar ,will charm you with its local delicacies like sauerkraut, flammenkuchen/tartes flambées, munster, kugelhopf, and other gourmet specialties in traditional restaurants called Winstubs.

Don't miss the chance to delight your taste buds in one of our Michelin-starred restaurants and stop into one of our independent vintners in the town centre or one of the region's many wine growers who will open their doors to share their passion for vines and wine.

Top Shopping !

Colmar will also delight you with the quality of its shops and boutiques that will allow you bring a small part of Alsace back with you in your luggage!

In the outdoor market, a score of local merchants offer local delicacies, while in every street of the historic centre you will find shops upon shops offering "made in Alsace" products: table accents, textiles, déco, accessories, soft furnishings...

Bargain hunters won't miss out on Friday specials and the many antique shops in the town.

Places to visit around Colmar

Top Things to do in Colmar France (A Complete Colmar Travel Blog)

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Home » Top Things to do in Colmar France (A Complete Colmar Travel Blog)

Ever heard of a place that moved countries? Well, the town of Colmar, in North-Eastern France and on the border with Germany, is one such place.

Imagine a place with cobblestone streets running next to canals that are lined with absolutely gorgeous half-timbered houses, accentuated with quintessential French shutters and colored in various pastel shades of sky blue, rose, lemon, apricot, peppermint and many more!

This is Colmar, one of the most colorful cities in France .

It is one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace , and one that you should include on your upcoming holiday to France, using our tried and tested Colmar guide of course!

Colmar Travel Guide

Not only is Colmar one of the best cities in France for kids to visit, it is also the perfect destination for solo travelers and couples as well.

Find everything below that you will need to know when visiting Colmar France.

From where to find it, how to get there, and a little history of Colmar, to things to do in Colmar (eating and drinking included of course!)

Where is Colmar Located?

Located on the border of France and Germany, near Switzerland, Colmar is a fairytale French town that offers a mesmerizing insight into the last 1,000 years of European history.

Colmar is located in North-Eastern France, next to the mighty Rhine River and on the border with Germany.

Colmar is an extremely gorgeous little town in the heart of Alsace, a French region famously known for its vineyards and wonderful wines.

Ask anybody familiar with this region and he/she will tell you that Alsace is the world’s pioneer of wine tourism. However, Colmar is pushing this even further, but more on that later.

How to Get to Colmar?

Set somewhere between the French cities of Strasbourg and Mulhouse, you can find a direct train connection to Colmar from both cities.

Sidenote: if you are coming from Strasbourg, which is 35 minutes from Colmar, make sure that you sit on the right side of the train and enjoy the highly captivating and stunning views of the Vosges Mountains.

Alternatively, if you are coming from the German side, you can choose a bus near the border town of Breisach. Again, you can take a direct train from Freiburg and get a RegioElsass Ticket , which is way cheaper and valid for the bus from Breisach.

Additionally, there a numerous low-cost flights from the closest airport, the Euroairport in Basel. Other airports in the area include Baden Airport, Zurich, and Stuttgart.

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What to Look out for When Visiting Colmar Old Town

Wondering what to do in Colmar Old Town? You could easily fill your days with this beautiful Old Town as it is pretty large in size.

For the last 70 years since the end of WWII, Colmar has remained a permanent part of France, albeit with a hint of German architecture and culture.

But more important than its Franco-German features is that this region’s stunning mountainous scenery shelters a gorgeous city, with idyllic villages, superb vineyards and wines, fascinating museums, cuisines, restaurants and of course, Colmar hotels.

This is a little town of just 67,000 inhabitants, with a remarkably exceptional heritage, romantic canals and streets, sumptuous cuisines and wines, and even a dialect that is unique only to this town.

It’s definitely a town worth visiting; a place where you’ll find the serenity and intimacy of a medium-sized town, but stand the chance to bump into various amazing things, scenes and magical architectures reflecting 1,000 years of strange French and German co-existence and struggles.

It may be quite hard to believe this but the truth is; old town Colmar France is so attractive that it doesn’t feel real!

It’s one of those few places in the world that you can visit and ultimately feel the urge to remain there for the rest of your life.

We have traveled to various parts of France and the world in general, but there’s no other place in this country or anywhere else, where myself (or any other visitor, for that matter) can be given a more genuine warm welcome, than in Colmar.

Brief History

Colmar dates back to the 14th century. This ultimately unique place has changed hands numerous times over the centuries between Germany and France.

This is perhaps one of the main reasons why it has maintained an irreplaceable and fierce character that never conforms to any specific country.

To drive this home, this is a place where a unique dialect is a commonly spoken language. The best part of Colmar’s history is the fact that its centuries-old buildings have seen it all, but still remain beautiful and in tip-top shape.

This town began as part of the Holy Roman Empire, but for the last 800 or so years, it has been governed either by France or Germany, with Sweden also enjoying some few years of rule.

France took its control in 1673 but was overthrown by the Germans in 1871, only to be returned to France after WWI. It was again taken by Nazi Germany in 1940, and was returned to France in 1945 where it remains to date.

Things to do in Colmar France

Colmar is filled to the brim with spectacular sights and sensational spots. Here are our three favorite things to do in Colmar France:

1. Stroll around the Colmar Old Town

Forgetting for a moment Colmar’s magnificently eccentric history, this little old town also has many attractions and an indisputable charm, so many activities in fact that it would be impossible to visit them all in a day.

Take a cruise on one of the flat-bottomed boats plying the lovely canals, while meandering under gratifying little bridges and alongside romantic, picturesque streets.

Walking down the streets of Colmar is reminiscent of visiting a captivating movie set full of century-old, half-timbered buildings that are conspicuously Germanic, yet with elegant French finishes, like in the critically acclaimed Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast.

In essence, you’ll never remember that you are in France if not for the croissants and pain au chocolat from the bakeries. This is because Colmar is an architectural goldmine full of renaissance sentiment, gothic churches, and baroque mansions.

2. Check out the Little Venice in Colmar

While there are various places to visit, such as the Maison des Tetes (House of the Heads), Unterlinden Museum, Bartholdi Museum (in memory of Colmar’s famous son, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi , who designed the original Statue of Liberty in the U.S.), the main point of attraction is the romantic and world famous district of Petit (Little) Venice, near Quai de Poissoniers.

This picture-perfect district, named after Italy’s Venice, will surely be great for snapping photos to fill your Instagram feed with, and that’s why you should carry an extra memory card just in case the first one gets full.

Like the rest of Colmar, Little Venice dates back to the 14th century and has survived wars and annexations unscathed. Legend has it that it was a quarter for the old merchants, including butchers, tanners, and fishmongers.

3. St. Martin’s Church

Otherwise known as the Église Saint-Martin, this fantastic Roman Catholic church is a wondrous attraction in Colmar. The building holds hundreds of years’ worth of history.

Stepping in through the Saint Nicholas doorway gives you an immediate view of how spectacular the design of this church is. The interior is decorated with colorful tiles, including a pattern of red and gold ones that form the shape of the Latin cross.

The High Gothic Choir contains intricate 15th-century stained glass and carved wood details. The stained glass windows add to the ambiance of the church, which is completed by the antique Baroque organ. While on the outside, an assortment of medieval sculptures stands to greet incoming visitors.

4. Pfister House

This magnificent building is almost 500 years old and holds much of Colmar’s artistic history both on and inside its walls. The paintings are all displayed on the walls of this magnificently built house. You’ll find scenes depicting biblical scriptures, as well as portraits of German emperors.

Stroll down Rue des Marchands street, which is the home to this house, and step outside to get some amazing photos of the decorated facade.

Unfortunately, the house is not open to the public, but the view is the best from outside, anyway.

5. Tourist Trains

There are two trains that take tourists through Colmar, the Green Train and the White Train. They both offer scenic rides with live commentary in many international languages.

This is definitely one of the most fun, informational ways to see Colmar. An exciting trip down the gorgeous streets, with a friendly conductor just bursting with the knowledge to share with you!

6. Alsatian Wine Route

One thing you shouldn’t miss when in Colmar is enjoying the Alsatian wines on offer.

There are a number of vineyards in the surrounding villages outside Colmar. You can arrange a guided tour, or simply take a drive out yourself.

Depending on when you arrive, and how long you plan to stay in Colmar, you may even be able to attend one of the many wine festivals held throughout the year.

There is accommodation along the route, as well, if you would like to make it a longer trip.

7. Toy Museum

If you have kids with you, this is sure to be a favorite! Even if you don’t, though, adults are likely to enjoy this just as much.

Housed in an old cinema, and displayed over 3 floors, the museum is home to a collection of toys dating from the 19 century to the present. See how toys have changed over the years, and which ones have managed to stand the test of time.

8. Colmar’s Covered Market

From the outside, this market hall may not look quite like a market. With the brick and steel construction, it’s sturdy and durable.

Inside, however, is a bustling covered market. Made up of around 20 vendors, selling everything from food to clothes, and memorable Colmar souvenirs. Grab a deliciously authentic Alsatian lunch from here.

9. Other Things to do in Colmar 

In short, Colmar is generally an enchanting maze that illustrates Alsace’s unique culture, historic leather-tanning district, brightly painted half-timbered houses and amazingly interlocking waterways.

From boat rides, mountain climbing and bike rides, to hiking and fishing, there are a lot of things to do in Colmar to suit all tastes and preferences.

Colmar Day Trips and Activities

Booking a guided tour of Colmar and its surroundings will give you the perfect opportunity to see the best of this quaint town.

1. Alsace Villages Tour and Wine Tasting

This trip will take you from Colmar all the way to the medieval Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg. Along the way, you’ll get to stop off in some of the villages and explore their old streets.

Admire the beauty of the buildings, taste the impeccably crafted wines, and savor the mouth-watering food available. Children under the age of 5 are unfortunately not allowed on the tour.

>> Book your tickets to this full-day trip online >>

2. Safari-Tour Munster Valley Tour with a Visit to a Goat Farm

This tour gives the whole family a chance to enjoy some great cheese tasting, a cave tour with wine tasting, and a visit to a working goat farm.

The tour is stroller accessible, and children of all ages can join.

3. Colmar Segway Tour

Segways are always fun! This 2-hour trip will take you around Colmar in a unique and adventurous way.

You’ll get kitted out with a helmet and given instructions on how to drive your segway, and then you zoom off with your group! This is something you can enjoy with or without the kids (provided they are heavier than 35kgs).

What and Where to Eat in Colmar

Colmar has plenty of gorgeous restaurants to eat at. Here are a few suggestions of our favorites:

Where to Eat in Colmar

Discovering the gentle Alsatian lifestyle, as presented by Colmar, cannot be complete without a sampling of the Colmar cuisines and wine culture. Different from any other part of France, you’ll also encounter mouth-watering Alsace pastries.

From the Kugelhopf cake (similar to the American Bundt cake), sauerkraut (fermented cabbage served with a variety of meats and boiled potatoes), Choucroute garnie (a specialty of the Alsace region,which is like sauerkraut but cooked in wine), tarte flambèe (Alsatian pizza), foie gras, juicy ham hock, spicy gingerbread to escargots and famous Alsatian wines, you’ll never go wrong if you’re a foodie!

Some of our favorite spots and best recommendations for where you can eat are at the historic centers such as Au Pont du Corbeau, the waterside Brenner, the opulent Brasserie Le Thèâtre and too many more to mention!

Best Places to Stay in Colmar France

We rounded up 3 of the best hotels on offer, depending on whether you’re hoping to save money, travel in a large group, or get in a luxury Colmar holiday, we’ve got you covered.

1. Top Budget Hotel in Colmar – “ l’Ours de Colmar “

l’Ours de Colmar is a comfy spot to stay in Colmar, only 400m from the city center. The only thing budget about this hotel is the price!

The units are all furnished with a TV, self-catering kitchen appliances, and even dishwashers. Some of the bigger units have seating areas as well. Every room is spacious, clean and equipped with all you need for a comfy stay.

<< Book this hotel on Booking.com here >>

2. Best Family Hotel in Colmar – “ MyAlsace “

The MyAlsace apartment provides 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, living area, and a spacious bathroom. It’s perfect for families who need affordable Colmar accommodation.

The apartment is bright and colorful outside, and neat but cozy inside.

Staying here, you’ll be situated close to the center of Colmar, and will be a short 10-minute walk from Saint Martin’s Church.

3. Finest Luxury Hotel in Colmar – “ La Maison Des Têtes “

La Maison Des Têtes offers true luxury, for those who are wanting a more pampered visit to Colmar.

The hotel is housed inside a gorgeous 17th-century building, and includes an onsite restaurant, drinks lounge and shaded patio for guests to relax. The rooms are tastefully decorated and include air conditioning, your own TV, free WiFi, and a private bathroom.

This hotel is often booked out due to its popularity, so if you find it available, it is best to book it ASAP.

4. Best Airbnb Option (Our Favorite) – “ Loft Moderne “

We love using Airbnb as they are brilliant at offering great family accommodation options as truly affordable prices. Airbnb connects you with homeowners who rent out their homes/apartments to travellers.

The little Airbnb that we stayed in Colmar was in a brilliant location. It had lots of space as well as a beautiful kitchen where we could prepare our own meals.

<<In case you haven’t tried Airbnb yet, sign up using  our link  and get  FREE US $2 3  travel credit towards your first stay!>>

Colmar is a truly magical place and a fairytale-like town in our eyes. This is the place in France that we are planning to settle down for a while one day.

Everything about this place is beautiful, from the colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets, to the delicious cuisine in the multitude of restaurants, and so much more!

Until then, enjoy your travels and have a great time in Colmar!

Andrzej Ejmont

1 thought on “top things to do in colmar france (a complete colmar travel blog)”.

This was enticing and informative; thank you for a great travel guide! I cannot wait to go later this year!

Comments are closed.

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A Blog About Life & Travel in France

19 Incredible Things to Do in Colmar, France (from a Local)

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 19 January 2024
• 3 March 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Colmar?

Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Not only do I live in France, but I’ve been to Colmar more times than I can count.

This quaint Alsatian town is most known for its cobblestone alleys dotted with colorful medieval buildings. But that’s not all! The local dishes are tantalizing, yet filling, and the museums are inspiring. In summer, the city is decorated with hanging baskets of red, white, and pink flowers. And, in winter, it transforms into a magical wonderland as the Christmas market comes alive.

It’s an enchanting city that’s impossible not to love. So, to help you make the most out of your trip, I’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Colmar.

Please note : This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy .

19 Incredible Things to Do in Colmar

There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Colmar. In fact, of the places I’ve visited in eastern France , this cute little town was one of my favorites.

So, without further ado, here’s a look at Colmar’s top 19 attractions and things that I recommend you do while visiting. I’ve even included a few hidden spots to help you get off the tourist path!

1. Get Lost in Colmar’s Old Town

Colmar’s Old Town will take you on a journey through time. Here you’ll find restaurants, cafés, and hotels set in buildings that date back to the 13th century. It’s a vibrant neighborhood that is teeming with history. Some of the highlights include Saint Martin’s Church and the stretch of buildings on Grand Rue.

There are several ways to visit Colmar’s Old Town, the most practical is on foot with a guided tour.

Click here to book the best guided tour of Colmar.

2. Take a Boat Ride on the Lauch River

The Lauch River weaves through some of the most picturesque sections of the city . And the waterways that pass through the Old Town have been dubbed La Petite Venise of Colmar (or Little Venice of Colmar).

While you could follow the river on foot, a boat ride offers something a little more special. You’ll float along in a small wooden gondola while a tour guide recounts an intimate history of Colmar. It’s a romantic setting that gives way to some spectacular unobstructed views of the city.

Useful Tip : The boat ride is about 25 minutes, and tickets should be purchased in advance.

Sweet Narcisse – Boats Trip Information

• Departure: Below the Saint Pierre Bridge
• For more information, click here .

Things to Do in Colmar Guide

Sign up for a free copy of my Things to Do in Colmar Guide. It has everything you need to guarantee an amazing trip!

3. Tour the Alsace Wine Route

Of course, no trip to Colmar is complete without exploring the Alsace Wine Route. This scenic road takes you through picturesque vineyards and offers a chance to sample some of the region’s finest wines. It’s one of the best ways to explore the area and get an authentic taste of its culture and history.

This is, actually, one of my favorite things to do near Colmar !

There are so many delightful towns along this route, but the closest ones to Colmar include, Eguisheim and Turckheim. Kaysersberg is slightly further, but there’s a ton to do here , so it’s worth the trip.

If you’re short on time and want to visit all three I recommend joining a tour.

Click here to book the best tour of the Alsace Wine Route.

4. Watch the Sunrise over La Petite Venise

Wake up early and watch the sky fill with hues of orange and pink over the most radiant buildings in the city. It’s a kaleidoscope of color that is absolutely sublime. Colmar can be, at times, crowded and buzzing with tourists. So, this will give you the opportunity to see an otherwise busy city, completely empty.

The best places to watch the sunrise over La Petite Venise (Little Venice) are:

• Rue Turenne Bridge
• Rue des Écoles Bridge

5. Reminisce at the Musée du Jouet

Housed in a former cinema, the Musée du Jouet (Toy Museum) is a place that will bring you pure joy. Here you’ll find a fantastic display of toys from the last two hundred years, including Barbie dolls, video games, Playmobile , and much more.

And, while you can’t play with any of them, it will make you giddy to rediscover the toys that marked your childhood!

Address : 40 Rue Vauban

Opening Times :

Wednesday to Monday:

• January to November: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• July to August and December – 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Click here to book your tickets for Colmar’s Toy Museum.

6. Admire Colmar’s Most Vivid Street

If there is one thing that Colmar is known for, it’s its colorful architecture. Rows upon rows of streets are lined with pink, blue, yellow, green, and orange houses and shops. The most beautiful of which can be seen from the Rue des Écoles Bridge. A few minutes here and you’ll see why people are drawn to Colmar !

Interestingly, these buildings were not painted for the sake of tourism.

Up until the 18th century, these colors served two very specific purposes. First, they were used to distinguish the religion of a household. Blue represented Catholic, while red corresponded to Protestant. And second, they denoted the type of shop (i.e., bakery, butcher, etc.).

Today, locals have done away with this tradition, and, instead, try to have a color different from their neighbors.

7. Devour a Flammekueche

Flammekueche is a regional specialty that is like pizza. This local delicacy consists of a thin crust topped with crème fraîche, lardons, onions, and local cheese. And, while the ingredients are simple, it’s an explosion of flavor in your mouth. Pair it with a glass of Pinot Gris and you’ll be in heaven.

Of course, you can find flammekueche in every city in Alsace , but the best is in Colmar. Head to La Terrasse du Marché. If you are going for lunch, arrive early. By noon, every seat is taken!

La Terrasse du Marché Address : 13 Rue des Écoles

8. Visit La Maison des Têtes

La Maison des Têtes or The House of Heads sounds like a horror museum, but it’s, actually, a work of art. Small human heads, made of stone, adorn the outside of the building, while windows of different sizes are haphazardly placed between the heads. To say it’s eccentric would be an understatement.

Originally, it was nothing more than a mansion for Anton Burger, a wealthy merchant in the early 1600s. Today, this masterpiece has been turned into a five-star luxury hotel. If you can afford a night here, it will surely be spectacular, or you can admire it from the street for free.

Address : 19 Rue des Têtes

9. Make Your Own Chocolate

Who doesn’t love chocolate?

Discover, taste, and create at Colmar’s very own Chocolate Museum, Choco Story Colmar.

This immersive environment is both fun and educational. You’ll learn how chocolate is made and at the end, you’ll get to taste some of the best chocolate in town. And, if you have extra time, you can even make your own chocolate bar. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Colmar!

Address : 12 Place de la Cathédrale

Click here to book your museum and chocolate workshop tickets.

10. Admire the Pfister House

The Pfister House was the home of Ludwig Scherer, a financial guru from the mid-16th century. At first glance, it appears to be a medieval-style home, but it, actually, was the first example of Renaissance architecture in Colmar.

Its most notable features include the corner bay windows that hang over the street below and the paintings inscribed on the wood panels. Unfortunately, you can’t tour the inside of the house, but don’t let this deter you from stopping by. It’s a work of art!

Address : 15 Place de la Cathédrale

11. Tour the Musée d’Unterlinden

In the 13th century, Musée d’Unterlinden was a convent for the Dominican religious sisters. Today, it’s one of the most spectacular museums in Alsace with over 200,000 visitors per year. It even won the title of Musée de France, one of the most prestigious awards for a museum!

Not only is it home to the Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald , but there’s also a large collection of local and international artworks.

Address : Place des Unterlinden

• Wednesday to Monday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Closed Tuesday

12. Sample Alsatian Wine

When it comes to experiencing the culture of Colmar, there’s no better way than sampling some local Alsatian wine. From dry and fruity Rieslings to full-bodied Pinot Gris, you can find a large variety that will no doubt tantalize your taste buds. You can try a glass at any restaurant, visit a wine cellar, or go on a wine tour.

Below is a list of the best wine cellars to visit in Colmar:

• Wolfberger Boutique Colmar
• Domaine Robert Karcher et Fils

For the best wine tasting tour, I highly recommend this tour .

13. Visit Musée Bartholdi

Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was a French sculptor who is best known for designing the Statue of Liberty. And the Musée Bartholdi is a museum built from his former childhood home. From heirlooms to paintings and photographs, it’s a magnificent collection spread across three floors.

Address : 30 Rue des Marchands

• Tuesday to Sunday : 10:00 am – 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Closed Monday
• Closed for the month of January

While the museum is the best place to see his work, there are several additional pieces around Colmar. Some of the most famous are listed below:

• Monument du Général Rapp
• Fontaine Schongauer
• Fontaine de l’Amiral Bruat
• Fontaine Roeselmann
• Monument Hirn
• Fontaine Schwendi
• Les Grands Soutiens du Monde

14. Discover the Statue of Liberty

To commemorate Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, on the 100th anniversary of his death, the city of Colmar installed a replica of the Statue of Liberty. This magnificent monument serves as a tribute to Bartholdi’s seminal work. It also symbolizes the unique relationship between France and the United States.

Address : 45 Route de Strasbourg

15. St. Martin’s Church

Located in the heart of the city, construction of St. Martin’s Church began in 1235 and finished in 1365. Not only is it a historical monument, but it’s also one of the most significant pieces of Gothic architecture in Colmar.

It was here that the Isenmann altarpiece was created. This piece of art contains a series of panels showcasing the life of Jesus Christ. To date, only seven remain and are currently housed in the Unterlinden Museum.

Address : 18 Place de la Cathédrale

16. Go on a Segway Tour

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your trip, a Segway tour is a must. You’ll visit the top tourist attractions in Colmar while learning about its history and culture. It’s a great way to explore the city, especially if you’re short on time. Plus, it’s a ton of fun!

Click here to book the best Segway Tour in Colmar.

17. Shop at the Covered Market

Colmar is brimming with architectural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Among its many gems is the ever-charming Marché Couvert Colmar.

This vibrant indoor market features a variety of stalls selling local products as well as a bar with a terrace that sits on the Lauch River. Shop for souvenirs or stop by for lunch, either way, you won’t regret it!

Address : 13 Rue des Écoles

18. Explore Colmar’s Christmas Market

There’s no denying that Colmar is a stunning destination year-round. But during the holiday season, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland. This quaint little town comes alive with twinkling lights and festive decorations. You’ll also find wooden chalets selling traditional gifts, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

Useful Tip : If you want to avoid the Christmas market crowds, I recommend visiting in early December.

I recommend this tour of Colmar’s Christmas market.

19. Hang-out in Parc du Champ-de-Mars

The Champ de Mars Park is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists alike. Here you’ll find tree-lined walkways, picnic areas, comfortable benches, and a playground. It’s perfect for anyone looking to relax and escape Colmar’s busy center.

It’s the largest park so even if it’s popular it never feels full! I recommend gathering a few items from Marché Couvert Colmar and having a picnic in one of the grassed areas.

Address : Avenue de la République

Map of Things to Do in Colmar

The map below contains all the things to do in Colmar that are listed in this guide. Click the map below to open Google Maps.

Where to Eat

There is no shortage of amazing restaurants in Colmar so to help you plan your trip I’ve narrowed it down. Below is a list of the best restaurants in town:

• Restaurant L’incontournable – A cozy restaurant with amazing food. The menu is centered on local dishes, but they have other options as well.
• Aux Armes de Colmar – Set in a half-timbered house, this charming restaurant serves some excellent traditional Alsatian food.
• La Cocotte de Grand-Mère – A cute bistro with outdoor seating. The service is excellent and the food is delicious. It’s also a great place to sample some local wine!

Where to Stay

There’s no denying that Colmar is a small town so budget hotels are few and far between. You’ll find most of the accommodation options fall within the mid-range to luxury budgets.

If you’re a first-time visitor I recommend staying in either Colmar’s Old Town district or La Petite Venise. Both neighborhoods are centrally located and within walking distance of the major attractions.

Below is a list of hotels I recommend:

• Coquet Studio Colmar Centre – A studio apartment with all the amenities you could want. Not on that but it’s centrally located.
• Au Grenier à Sel Colmar – A spacious immaculate apartment that is right in the center of town. The host is friendly and the apartment is well-equipped.
• Hotel Saint-Martin – Located on Grand Rue, this lovely hotel is set in a traditional half-timbered house. The rooms are cozy and the staff is terrific. Their breakfast is also really good!

Best Time to Visit Colmar

Colmar is an enchanting destination that has something to offer any time of year.

But when is the best time to visit this charming French city?

The best time to visit Colmar is from April through June. Temperatures are mild with minimal rainfall, making it an ideal period for sightseeing. Plus, the summer crowds have yet to arrive, so you’ll have the place to yourself. Prices are lower and there are plenty of accommodation options available. Of the seasons, this is my favorite time to visit Colmar.

During summer (July to August), temperatures are scorching, and the humidity is at its highest. It’s undoubtedly a great time to visit, but you’ll have to be ready for the high tourist season.

Another fantastic time to visit Colmar is from September to November. The days are cooler but still mild, and the autumn foliage is at its peak. The summer crowds have left, and prices start to drop. You’ll also find plenty of affordable accommodation options.

For a unique experience, consider visiting during the winter months (December to January). Temperatures are considerably cooler, so you’ll need to bring extra layers of clothing. But Colmar is especially beautiful when decorated with Christmas lights and festive ornaments.

If you’re looking for Colmar’s low season, it’s from February to March. The weather is cold and rainy, but prices are at their lowest. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to get the most bang for their buck.

How to Get to Colmar

While Colmar might not seem like it’s conveniently located, it’s, actually, very easy to reach. For the most convenient option, I recommend first getting to Strasbourg because there are a ton of ways to get from Strasbourg to Colmar .

Below is a complete overview of the various travel options.

• From France : The closest major city in France to Colmar is Strasbourg. From Strasbourg, it’s about 1 hour by train.
• From Germany : The closest city in Germany to Colmar is Fribourg. But there are no direct trains. You will have to change at least once. The trip takes about 1-2 hours. Frankfurt is much farther, but its airport is very convenient. If you’re coming from Frankfurt, it’s easier to get to Colmar via Strasbourg.
• From Switzerland : The closest city in Switzerland to Colmar is Basel. Trains are direct and take under an hour.

Click here to book and purchase your train tickets.

The three closest airports are listed below:

• Frankfurt Airport (Frankfurt, Germany)
• Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport (Paris, France)
• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (St. Louis, France)

If you are flying into one of these airports, use the information above to reach Colmar by train.

For the best deals on flights, I recommend WayAway .

FAQs About Things to Do in Colmar

What is colmar best known for.

Colmar is best known for its colorful, cobbled streets and buildings painted in a traditional Alsatian style. It’s also home to several museums, the most famous being the Unterlinden Museum.

Is one day in Colmar enough?

While it’s possible to see the highlights in a single day, it’s not enough time to do everything. It’s best to plan a trip with at least two days in Colmar, if you want to have the best experience.

Is Colmar closed on Sunday?

No, Colmar is not closed on Sunday. Most businesses are open, though some shops may have reduced hours. The tourist attractions and museums are also generally open during the weekend. It’s best to check with individual establishments in advance if you plan to visit on Sunday.

Is Colmar a day trip from Paris?

Yes, it is possible to visit Colmar on a day trip from Paris . If you take a high-speed TGV train, you’ll be able to reach Colmar in two and a half hours. If you take a slower train (OUIGO), you won’t have enough time. With these trains, the travel time increases to four hours and there’s at least one correspondence.

How do you get around Colmar France?

The best way to get around Colmar is on foot. It’s walkable and compact. Most of the major attractions are in the same area, making it easy to explore on foot.

Is Colmar walkable?

Yes, Colmar is very walkable. The historic district and key attractions are all within five minutes of each other. There are also a lot of restaurants and cafés on every corner. So, you’re never far from what you need.

What language do they speak in Colmar?

The primary language spoken in Colmar is French. But you’ll also hear German and English in the streets.

Does Colmar have Uber?

Yes, Colmar has Uber, but there are not a lot of drivers. You could wait up to an hour or more for a ten-minute drive. So don’t count on it as a form of transportation.

Where to go after Colmar?

After Colmar, if you want to explore other towns in Alsace, I recommend going to Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, or Strasbourg . For destinations outside France, Luxembourg, and Basel are wonderful destinations.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Colmar

Colmar is one of the most beautiful and unique cities in France. With its colorful streets, historical museums, and delectable food there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip from Strasbourg , Colmar has it all!

Plus, with easy access, it makes for a great destination no matter what your travel plans are. So, now, all that’s left to do is plan a trip to this gorgeous city!

Read More Travel Articles from France

Hope you enjoyed my post on the best things to do in Colmar and found it useful. Here are some of my other articles from  France  that I think you might find interesting.

• Is Strasbourg in Germany or France? A Surprising Answer!
• I Love France – Why Do You Love France or French?
• 3 Days in Strasbourg – The Perfect Itinerary (from a Local)

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

Tourism, holidays & weekends guide in the Haut-Rhin

Capital of the Alsace wines, Colmar has preserved its rich architectural heritage, as well as its picturesque character. The Unterlinden museum, dedicated to Rhenish art, is an essential place to visit in the town. Showing collections of medieval and Renaissance paintings and sculptures, this former Dominican convent also has the famous Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald on display.

The old districts, with their old half-timbered houses and facades decorated with old forged iron shop signs, are a real delight. One of the most popular places in Colmar is the Petite Venise district (Little Venice), that is very romantic. The beautiful half-timbered houses and colourful walls on the Poissonnerie quayside and the small flower-covered bridges spanning the Lauch river add to the charm of the place. A boat tour on the canal is also a lovely way to discover the pretty banks of the Petite Venise.

The Tanneurs (Tanners) district is very picturesque, with its tall houses and attics formerly used for drying skins. The Marchands (Traders) street is known for its beautiful residences and especially for the Pfister's house dating from 1537, decorated with an corner oriel window and a wooden gallery. It is in this street that is located Auguste Bartholdi's birth house, who is the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty in New York. This ancient residence is today home to a museum exhibiting the work of the artist.

The visit of the old town continues with the Saint-Martin collegiate church, an ancient cathedral of the 13th and 14th century; the Dominicans church of Rhenish Gothic style; the arcades house ("maison des Arcades") and the former customs ("Ancienne Douane"), Koïfhus, with its pretty, busy square featuring a fountain.

The wine fair in Colmar takes place in August and is a must. This festival features tastings, gastronomy, exhibitions and animations. The atmosphere is great! Colmar's International festival in July is a major classical music event. In winter, during the Christmas break, the old town of Colmar is very pretty with its illuminations, its decorations, and its friendly Christmas markets .

Additional information Colmar

• Synagogue of Colmar:
• The Jewish Community of Colmar wanted from the beginning of the nineteenth century, ceasing to pray in makeshift synagogues, such as inn rooms, and erect a place of worship worthy. Because of the extreme reluctance of the municipality, it was not until 1840 so the land can be acquired, the land on which the current synagogue was erected and inaugurated September 15, 1843.
• With a length of 33 meters and 20 meters wide, the synagogue of Colmar, Israelite Consistory headquarters of the Upper Rhine is built in a Neo-Romanesque style.
• Since its construction, it has experienced few changes: adding an additional gallery for women, replacing the central wooden platform by a platform of sandstone after World War II, the entire interior has been destroyed by the German occupiers who used it as a warehouse.
• Note that all the candelabra of the synagogue have a number of different branches of seven, because on one hand it is prohibited to reproduce the candelabrum of the temple of Jerusalem, and because the use of the candelabrum is for "Hanukkah "or festival of lights, which lasts 8 days.
• One can also notice the existence of balconies, which are used in the offices where the tradition prescribes the separation between men and women, separation is intended to allow the necessary concentration to prayer.

Things to see and do

• The Dominican Convent:
• Free access to the Dominican convent.
• Attached to the eponymous church, built in the thirteenth and eighteenth redesigned, it houses the town library since 1951, a case of the most beautiful ancient capital of the region with 1,200 manuscripts, 2,700 incunabula and 50,000 volumes centuries precedents. It is also a venue for exhibitions, concerts (Festival "off" Spivakov) and drama.
• Opening hours (depending on the season variables): Monday to Friday from 9h to 12h, from 14h to 18h (except Wednesday to Friday 18.30), Saturday from 10h to 16h continuously.
• The synagogue Colmar:
• With a length of 33 meters and 20 meters wide, the synagogue Colmar, seat of the Israelite Consistory of the Upper Rhine is built in a Neo-Romanesque style.
• The Koïfhus or old customs.
• The Commandery of the Knights of St John.

Leisure activities

Places of interest, events and festivities.

• The Book Fair Colmar:
• The Book Fair is held the last or penultimate weekend of November to Colmar Exhibition Centre.
• A "pool" literary creativity: Organized the year, in schools, bookstores, libraries, and the Parc des Expositions Colmar is a beautiful showcase of attractive and entertaining editorial production.
• Au Parc des Expositions Colmar: Covering an area of ​​16,000 m², it brings together almost 800 partners (240 booths) from Alsace , Burgundy, Lorraine, Rhône-Alpes - via Regional Centers of the Book - and Paris, Toulouse, Lyon, but also Algeria, Romania or Quebec...
• The Book Fair is one of the largest cultural and economic forums of the Great East. Its primary objective: to bring to books and reading, in a festive and friendly occasion, the broadest and most diverse audience.
• Information: Library of the City of Colmar: 1 Place des Martyrs Resistance - BP 40509-68021 Colmar Cedex. Tel. : +33 3 89 24 48 18 - Fax: +33 3 89 23 33 80 - Email: [email protected]

Detailed information

Visits, leisure and activities nearby

Restaurants

Bed & breakfasts

Vacation rentals

Related articles Colmar

5 Places to Visit in Colmar + Things To Do

Colmar is located in northeastern France, just a few miles from the Swiss, German, and French borders. Colmar is currently regarded as a metropolis, yet its “rural atmosphere” is still pervasive throughout the city.

Colmar is a place worth seeing. Its half-timbered homes, historic cathedrals, and educational museums will transport you to the medieval Alsace Region in a wonderful way. It’s lovely maintained old town is ideal for date nights or alone exploration. However, it’s not only the half-timbered dwellings, beautiful fountains, courtyards, and canals. Colmar and France’s Alsace area is renowned for its lovely, time-travelling ancient town.

The best way to travel to Colmar is via air to the nearest airport Basel (BSL). You can get a train from Zurich (ZRH) to Colmar via Zurich Hb which is a 2 hours journey. High-speed trains are also available from Paris.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Colmar travel essentials

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Colmar Hotels Flights

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

View all travel tips on: Colmar .

1. Little Venice (La Petite Venise)

Location : Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar, France . Save on Google Maps .

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2. The Fishmonger District & La Lauch

Location : Quai de la Poissonnerie . Save on Google Maps .

3. St Martin’s Church (Collégiale St-Martin)

Location : 18 Place de la Cathédrale . Save on Google Maps .

4. Colmar Old Town

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5. Colmar Train Station (Gare de Colmar)

Location : 9 Place de la Gare . Save on Google Maps .

Where to go beyond Colmar

Paris Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts

Top discounts

Arc de Triomphe Skip-The-Line Ticket in Paris

Palace of Versailles & Gardens Guided Tour

Moulin Rouge Show with Dinner or Champagne and City Bus Tour in Paris

See more : Paris travel tips

Zurich Travel Essentials

Zurich Sightseeing Bus Tour

Zürich Card

The Best of Zurich City Half Day Tour

See more : Zurich travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Colmar that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Colmar

Colmar tourist spots, things to do in Colmar, where to go in Colmar & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Colmar

Book a room in Colmar City Center or near the train station. There many places to stay within easy walking distance to the main tourist spots in Colmar Old Town.

Where to book

Click below & search recommended Colmar hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Happily Ever Adventures

The Most Charming Things to Do in Colmar, France

Europe · France · Travel

Looking for the most charming things to do in Colmar, France? We’ve got you covered. While choosing a favorite town in France is impossible,  Colmar, France was definitely on the short list for our favorite small town in France. Colmar made it on our France road trip itinerary after I heard that the small town in France from Beauty and the Beast was rumored to be modeled after Colmar, France. It was way out of our way, but we felt the effort to visit was more than worth it. Colmar is just the cutest fairy tale small town in France and I 100% felt we had wandered straight into Belle’s hometown from Beauty and the Beast. You will notice a distinct German influence, as Colmar has been traded between France and Germany several times. It’s incredibly rich in history as the entire town escaped all damages during WW2, leaving it to be a perfectly preserved fairy tale small French town. Here’s a complete guide to Colmar, France including how long to stay, things to do in Colmar, where to eat, and where to stay.

The most charming things to do in Colmar, France

How many days to spend in colmar.

We only had 1.5 days in the small French town of Colmar and didn’t feel like it was enough, BUT we are big wanderers. I would’ve loved 2-3 days. If you also prefer a slower pace I would recommend 2 – 3 days. If you are staying in Colmar as a home base and want to explore other towns in the Alsace region, I would recommend 3 – 5 days. If you are staying somewhere else in the Alsace region and just want to do a quick trip to Colmar, France, you could totally do it as a day trip. Just know that it will be a little bit rushed.

How to get to the small French town of Colmar

Although Colmar is just a small town in France, it is easy to get to from many cities in Europe.

If you’re flying in: select a flight to Strasbourg-Entzheim Airport or EuroAirport. Both are around a 45 minute drive to Colmar. Since Colmar is a small town in France, if you are coming from the United States, you will need book a flight to Europe first. Frankfurt is a popular stop for many USA routes.

If you’re taking a train: Colmar Station is just a 10 minute walk to the city center

Colmar, France is especially easy to get to from Paris, France and Cologne, Germany. It’s the perfect weekend getaway from either of these cities.

From Paris, France: 2 hours 15 minutes by train, 3 hours by bus, and 5 hours 20 minutes by car

From Cologne, Germany: 3 hours 30 minutes by train, 5 hours by car

Best things to do in Colmar, France

1. wander old town.

Wandering the old town is one of the best things to do in Colmar, France. We could’ve spent days wandering the cobbled streets of this small town in France! It’s so cute and charming, with each street filled with candy colored buildings and charming details like cut out hearts, rustic paintings on the buildings, and lots of flowers.

Like many small towns in France, these details are not just for aesthetics, they also tell the story of the family living there. Hearts on the building signify that the woman living inside is either available or getting married. The colors are representative of the family’s occupation, such as blue for fishermen and yellow for bakers.

The small French town is also rich in history as it avoided damage that many other French cities were exposed to during wartime. The town is preserved as a story book vision of old Alsace. You will truly feel like you are walking in a fairy tale as you explore the small French town.

We recommend spending the majority of your time in Colmar, France in the old quarter. If you prefer a little more structure than aimlessly wandering, the visitor’s center offers a self guided walking tour as part of their recommendations of the best things to do in Colmar.

2. Explore Little Venice

Exploring Little Venice was our second favorite thing to do in Colmar, France. Nestled in the back of the old quarter is Little Venice, a storybook vision of canals and bridges. This is usually the image that most people have of Colmar, France and where the most photos are taken of this small French town.

You can take a boat tour through the canals, dine near the canals, and walk all around. We very much felt like we were in a storybook version of Venice or Amsterdam. Truly so romantic and charming.

Depending on the season, Little Venice may look a little different. In the spring, it’s full of floral wonder, while in the winter, it’s a Christmas wonderland. Perfect any time of the year and one of the best things to do in Colmar, France any time of year. Such a cheery and happy place.

3. Visit the market of Colmar, France

Note: the pictures above are from the old town and not the market

THIS is where to buy souvenirs if you’re planning on getting any. The covered market dates back to 1865 and after many uses, is now a market again. There are a lot of sights and smells to take in here. We suggest allowing about an hour to walk around and sample the different food offerings. The stalls sell high-quality, local products such as: fruits and vegetables, butchery, charcuterie, dairy, bakery, fish, and souvenirs.We bought a wonderful homemade jam to take home and some delicious cheese. I also ate yet another pretzel here. Plan to have at least one of your meals in Colmar, France at the market.

4. Take a photo at the “Beauty and the Beast Fountain”

Okay, it’s not really called the Beauty and the Beast fountain, but this is my blog and being the Disney obsessed fanatic I am, I’m going to call it that. It’s really called the Fontaine Schwendi and it’s located in a picturesque square, surrounded by pretty half timbered buildings. The statute in the middle of this fountain was created by Frédéric Bartholdi, the same man who designed the Statue of Liberty. It’s not really one of the best things to do in Colmar, France UNLESS you love Beauty and the Beast like I do. In that case, it’s a must thing to do in Colmar!

Rumor has it that Belle’s small French town in Beauty and the Beast was inspired by villages in the Alsace region. While Colmar is not confirmed to be the official inspiration for Belle’s village, I had no doubt in my mind that it was. Walking through the cobblestone windy alleys of Colmar, France, I felt very much like I had stepped straight into a Disney movie and walking around Belle’s village. Take a look at the pictures below and see what you think!

Doesn’t this small town in France very much look like Belle’s French town? Like any other dedicated Disney fanatic, I forced Bassam to lip sync to “Bonjour” from Beauty and the Beast on our Instagram Stories. {Because that’s what normal people do right?} Here are our goofy attempts for your viewing pleasure. Try not to laugh at us *too* much, although we will understand if you do.

5. Tour the wines of the Alsace Region

If you have the time, we recommend taking a tour of the wineries in the Alsace region. There is an official wine tasting route you can do, check it out here . You can take a tour or rent a car to complete the wine tasting tour. These wine tasting tours are without a doubt some of the most popular things to do in Colmar.

If you don’t have time for a full day of wine tasting, you can still try all the famous varieties at a wine bar or wine shop in Colmar, France. The wines from Alsace are predominantly white.  Unlike in Bordeaux and Provence, the wines are named by their grape varieties. The Alsace grape varieties are as follows: reisling, muscat, pinot blanc, sylvaner, pinot gris, Gewurtztraminer, and pinot noir. Unlike their American and German counterparts, these wines are surprisingly dry, light and crisp.  There’s also an Alsatian bubbly variety called “Cremant d’alsace.”

6. Visit a museum

While all of Colmar feels like a living museum, there are also ten museums. We did not have time to visit any of them, but these four seem interesting as well worth adding to your list of things to do in Colmar:

• The Toy Museum {Musee Jouet}: featuring dolls, cars, puppets, game and more. The exhibits are housed in what used to be a movie theater and gives in dept information on the history of the toys
• Musee Bartholdi : named after Colmar’s most famous son, whose statue lives in the Beauty and the Beast fountain I mentioned above. It houses his sculptures and sketches
• Pfister House: even if you don’t go in, this art gallery is worth passing by for its beautiful architecture. The beautiful gem of Alsace architecture was built in 1537 and features glassed angular oriels and beautiful corbels. The bottom floor has a really great wine store where you can purchase Alsatian wines
• Unterlinden Museum :  this museum is housed in a 13th-century Dominican sisters’ convent and a 1906 former public baths building. It’s home to a large collection of local and international artworks and manufactured artifacts from prehistorical to contemporary times. It’s supposedly one of the most visited museums in France, with the exception of the museums in Paris

7. Take a day trip to a nearby small French town

We didn’t have time to do this, but we would’ve really liked to have visited the small French towns of Riquewihr and  Ribeauvillé. They both look so charming and were highly recommended by our hotel concierge. We are going back to the Alsace region soon and will update you on all the other villages we visit!

What and Where to eat in Colmar, France

Eating your way through the town is one of the best things to do in Colmar, but couldn’t that be said about any town? Here are some of the foodie highlights.

Foods to try in Colmar, France:

• Bretzel: a delight for any pretzel lover! This is the real deal right here. Savory brioche, soft on the inside, crispy on the outside, lightly salted and buttered. We went back for seconds
• Flammekueche:  a flambeed tart made of a blend of cream and cheese and topped with onions and bacon
• Berawecka:  a soft bun, with spices, dried fruit, and toasted nuts. An Alsatian holiday speciality
• Poulet au Riesling : chicken cooked in white wine
• Alsace wine: not technically a food, but also not to be missed. The region is especially known for dry whites

Where to Eat in Colmar, France:

Note: MAKE RESERVATIONS! We did not and were unable to get a seat at the places we wanted to dine

For a view of the canals:

Le Comptoir de Georges: we expected any restaurants along the canals to be a tourist trap, but the food here was surprisingly really good. It’s such a pretty and relaxing spot to enjoy a glass of wine and a bite to eat. We especially enjoyed the goat cheese pastry pies {feuilletes de chèvre}

For breakfast:

L’Atelier de Yann: the French are not big breakfast eaters. This was a hard adjustment for Bassam, who NEEDS his eggs in the morning. This is the only place we came across in Colmar, France to offer a traditional French breakfast {pastry} and an American style breakfast {eggs}. The pastry here is delicious and perfect for a dessert and coffee break as well

For a late night dinner:

Le 3: we arrived late at night to Colmar, France and had a hard time finding many places open. Le 3 was a great option. It’s open late, it’s very causal and friendly, and you don’t need reservations. It’s very warm and cozy and they offer a lot of regional specialties

For a great dinner:

As I mentioned above, since we didn’t make reservations, we weren’t able to eat anywhere that was on our list. We just found restaurants as we walked around in old town that had availability. We highly recommend selecting a place from the Michelin Dining Guide . This is how we usually choose where to eat in Europe and it has never steered us wrong. There are several listed on the guide that are Michelin recommended, but not starred. That means they are much lower priced, but still really great food. The list also includes three restaurants that each boast a Michelin star. I also found  this post that has more great dining recommendations

Where to stay in Colmar, France

We stayed at James Boutique Hotel and LOVED it! The location was perfect for us. It was just a block away from the heart of the city and easily located to all the best things to do in Colmar. It was so fast and easy to walk, but also slightly away from the crowds. The hotel was really nice with a great lobby to hang out, spacious and comfy room, really nice staff, and the price was very reasonable.

Here are some other hotels in Colmar, France that look good:

3 star: Hotel Turenne {Great location and reviews}

4 star: Hotel Le Colombier Suites {Also great location, fantastic reviews, and well priced!}

5 star: La Maison des Tetes {The only 5 star I found in the city center. Great reviews and not badly priced for a 5 star}

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June 29, 2018 at 6:38 pm

Your pictures from this trip are soooo gorgeous. How did you see Colmar so empty?! I went there for the first time in March, and to be honest, I actually preferred Strasbourg. Your blog has definitely convinced me to give it a second chance!

June 29, 2018 at 6:40 pm

Thank you! We were there in the fall and waited very very patiently to get photos without too many people in them haha. We didn’t get the chance to visit Stasbourg, but I would love to next time! If we do, I’ll let you know which one we prefer!

June 29, 2018 at 9:37 pm

This place looks like the perfect little fairytale town!! I had a similar experience in Fussen, Germany. It was this cute little off-the-beaten-path town that looked like Belle could literally just come skipping down one of the cobblestone streets.

June 29, 2018 at 11:00 pm

Ooohhh totally adding Fussen, Germany to our list! We LOVE off the beaten path towns, especially ones that look like a fairy tale! Maybe we’ll get lucky and see Belle 😉

June 29, 2018 at 9:38 pm

I’ve totally been wanting to visit this town because it reminds me so much of Beauty and the Beast. Your photos are so amazing, it makes the town look so cute and vibrant! I also loved your tips, I can totally plan my visit now!

June 29, 2018 at 10:59 pm

I’m so glad you found the post helpful and you’ll be planning a trip! I hope you love it as much as we did! You’ll have to let us know after you go!

June 30, 2018 at 8:35 am

Love your photos! It really is such a fairytale place. We had two days there, but would have really liked more. The food and wine also exceeded my expectations – it was so good.

June 30, 2018 at 12:27 pm

It’s a town that would be so nice to take your time in! We always wish we could have more time in cities we love. Agree, the food and wine was fantastic!

June 30, 2018 at 12:28 pm

When I lived in Strasbourg, we would often go to Colmar with all the friends and family, who came to visit me. So after a while my answer to the question: What to do in Colmar? was “to get bored there.” But now reading your post and seeing those pretty pictures I feel so nostalgic! Maybe it’s time to plan another visit. 🙂

June 30, 2018 at 12:52 pm

OMG, haha, that is too funny! I could see how visiting there repeatedly would start to feel boring, but it was new and fresh for us. Do you have a Colmar guide? I’d love to see one from a local’s perspective!

July 3, 2018 at 5:45 am

Colmar looks so beautiful!! I need to explore France more!

July 3, 2018 at 11:10 am

France is our absolute favorite country! We went on a 3 week road trip and still feel like there is so much more to see.

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5 Fabulous Things To Do in Colmar, France

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We were drawn to Colmar, France by colorful photographs depicting fanciful scenes of half-timbered houses and quaint canals, both draped in blooming foliage. The weaving cobblestone lanes in the Old Town and cheerful Little Venice Colmar districts seemed to be plucked straight from a fairytale – one that had to be seen to be believed.

Now that we’ve been, we can attest to the fact that Colmar is as pretty as a postcard… maybe even prettier . We planned three full days of our Alsace Itinerary here, which allowed us plenty of time to experience the best things to do in Colmar, France!

Things To Do in Colmar FAQs

Before diving into our list of the top things to do in Colmar, France, we want to answer a few of the most frequently asked questions. Having this information up front will help you plan your trip to Colmar, France.

Where is Colmar, France? 

Colmar is located in the Alsace Region of France, which occupies the northeastern part of the country along the Rhine River (west of Germany and north of Switzerland). (Later we share a Colmar Map marked with the top attractions that shows exactly where Colmar is within the Alsace region.)

Alsace is dotted with picturesque towns and hillside vineyards that invite discovery. For us, to visit Colmar also meant visiting the Alsace Region, which we were able to do by using public transportation as well as renting bikes.

What is Colmar Known For? 

Colmar, France is famous for its pastel painted, half timbered houses and Alsatian Renaissance architecture. The town of Colmar is well-known for its fine museums and exceptional wine offerings. 

Colmar is also known as being the birthplace of artist Auguste Bartholdi – the man who designed the Statue of Liberty. He was born in Colmar in 1834 – and here’s a Colmar fun fact: As he is a Colmar claim-to-fame, Lady Liberty appears throughout the city.

How Long to Visit Colmar? 

Colmar, France is so beautiful that we could have stayed for a month soaking in the sights of the charm. However, we know most travelers don’t have quite that much time. We think spending at least 3 days in Colmar is optimal – as it gives visitors plenty of time to see the best Colmar tourist attractions. 

At the end of our Colmar To Do list, we outline exactly what to do in Colmar for a day, how to spend 2 days in the city and a guide to visiting Colmar in 3 days. 

Should I Visit Colmar or Strasbourg? 

We would be hard pressed to give a definitive answer, as both Strasbourg and Colmar, France are exceptional places to visit.  If possible, we recommend visiting both! In fact, the entire Strasbourg and Colmar Alsace region is worth an extended visit, in our opinion. We share our top tips for Alsace exploration later in the post. 

Is Colmar, France Expensive? 

Well, expensive is a relative word. Yes, accommodations and some meals are pricey – and most Colmar museums require an entry fee. That said, some of the top things to do in Colmar, France – like strolling the Old Town, perusing the market and hiking in the nearby hills –  is completely free! 

Is It Difficult to Plan a Trip to Colmar, France? 

Not with our help! In this guide, we detail the best things to see in Colmar – plus day trip options. Furthermore, we share need-to-know trip details, like where to stay and what to pack.

Pro Tip: As you research and start planning a Colmar trip, staying organized is key. Use a travel planner – like our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all the important details! 

Best Things To Do in Colmar, France

Our list of Colmar things to do includes city exploration, learning a bit of history, getting out in nature, and savoring the cuisine. Visitors can plan their trip to Colmar using our list of fun activities.

Top Tip : At the end of the article, we include a Colmar sightseeing map that is marked with our top attractions. However, before you begin your Colmar sightseeing, you can also stop by the Colmar Tourist Office for a free Colmar city map and other useful information about the Alsace Region.

#1 Explore Colmar Old Town

Travelers wondering what to do in Colmar, France should start their discovery in the Old Town. No question about it, Old Town Colmar, France is the highlight of the city – and there are several ways to explore it.

You can wander aimlessly, find sights by using a Colmar tourist map, ride the Colmar tourist train or follow the Tourist Trail. Additionally, travelers who want to learn the history of Colmar from a local guide can book a 2-hour guided Colmar Walking Tour.

Tourist Trail to Colmar Attractions – A Free Walking Tour Colmar

For our first stroll through town, we opted to follow the Tourist Trail, which serves as a Self-Guided Colmar Walking Tour. The signposted trail leads visitors in a 6.1km loop (estimated time: 2.5 hours) featuring the best places to visit in Colmar, France.

The route is outlined on the free Colmar Old Town Map from the tourist office, but – to be honest – a Colmar walking tour map isn’t necessary. Simply follow the golden triangles (embossed with Lady Liberty!) to top Colmar sights. Each Colmar attraction features a sign (in French and English) with relevant information providing a history of Colmar, France.

Places to Visit in Colmar

We think following the Colmar free walking tour trail is one of the best things to do in Colmar to get acquainted with the city. However, for those preferring to ramble on their own, there are a few Colmar things to see that shouldn’t be missed. We recommend putting the following sights on your Colmar to-do list.

Little Venice Colmar, France

Little Venice in Colmar (called La Petite Venise) is the most attractive part of the Old Town – and strolling through the district is one of the top things to do Colmar, France. The narrow and shallow Lauch River flows past brightly painted houses and under arching bridges.

While the district is a must see in Colmar and it’s easy to tour on foot, taking a Colmar Canal Tour is the best way to see the impeccably decorated homes along the river.

Colmar Cathedral Saint Martin Church

The impressive spire of St. Martin’s Church (or Collegiale Saint-Martin) can be seen from many points around town, but it’s worth a look up close. Visitors will want to see both the ornate façade and the incredibly decorated interior.

Not to be missed is the 13th century stained glass window in the nave featuring a beardless Christ. 

It should be noted, however, that the church is not officially a cathedral (as it is not the seat of the bishopric) and is only called such because of its massive size.

Pfister House

Built in 1537, the lavishly decorated Renaissance-style Pfister house (or Maison Pfister) is a must-see in Colmar. Sitting along the charming Rue des Marchands, the Pfister House features paintings from the Bible, as well as German emperors.

House of Heads Colmar

The House of Heads is another one of the Colmar top attractions. Dating to 1609, the façade of the House of Heads (or Maison de Tetes) is decorated with more than 100 head sculptures peering down at the onlookers. It’s a sight to behold!

Colmar Customs House

Once the center of business and politics, the Old Customs House (called Koifhus or ancienne douane) was built in 1480. The ground floor served as a warehouse, market and customs office for hundreds of years.

Colmar Covered Market Hall

The beautiful brick and wooden Colmar Market Hall building dates to 1865 – and, after many other uses, is again a market today. In fact, perusing the goods at the Marché Couvert Colmar Market is one of the Best Things To Do Colmar!

Tanner’s District

The Tanner’s District (called the Quartier des Tanneurs) dates to the 17th and 18th centuries – and is where tanners (people who tan animal hides) lived. Their tall, half timbered houses were designed to allow animal pelts to hang and dry in the open air on the upper floors of the homes. The entire district is a Colmar must see sight! 

Fishmonger’s District

Once home to fishermen, the Fishmonger’s District features a colorful rainbow of half-timbered houses along the Lauch River on Quai de la Poissonnerie (which we think is the prettiest street in Colmar!).

The Grand Rue is the Colmar Main Street – and strolling the length of the cobblestone thoroughfare is, without a doubt, one of the best Colmar, France things to do! 

#2 Hike Through Colmar Vineyards

Colmar – and dozens of other smaller towns – are situated along the foothills of the Vosges Mountains. The stunning vineyard and hillside landscapes of the region beg to be discovered on day trips from Colmar. What better way to explore the regional Colmar highlights than on a hike? It’s one of the best things to do around Colmar!

Using the public bus and our own two feet, we were able to visit more of the must see Colmar Alsace region on a Wine Walk. 

Pro Tip: Drivers with a car can visit many of the quaint towns, which are linked together on the Alsace Wine Route. However, we think trekking from village to village is part of the charm of Colmar!

Alsatian Wine Route Walk

North of Colmar, the towns of Riquewihr, Hunawihr and Ribeauville are nestled along the Vosges among hillside vineyards. Each of these historic towns near Colmar, France boast a cluster of half-timbered houses and a church with a rising bell tower.

The three towns are connected by a 5km path – allowing travelers without a car to take a hike through alluring Alsace vineyards.

Mid-morning, we took a public bus from Colmar to Riquewihr. We walked the central cobblestone lane, stopping at Au Petite Delice for unbelievably delicious chocolate macaroons and then diverted onto charming Riquewihr side streets. We exited the town through the Thieves’ Tower and set off on our jaunt through the vineyards of Alsace. The path – which is also used by bikes and a few cars – steadily inclined through a forest and plateaued just above the town of Hunawihr.

From Hunawihr, we followed the path through budding vineyards, stopping often to take photos and enjoy the view. We found a picnic table under the shade of a tree where we ate our packed lunch (and macaroons!) with a view. As we completed our easy trek to Ribeauville, we could see hill-topping castles perched above the town.

Ribeauville

Ribeauville, which is the largest of the three Alsace Wine Walk towns, is home to several winery tasting rooms. After our trek through the vineyards, we naturally rewarded ourselves with a taste of the local product! Much busier than the two previous towns we visited, we casually strolled and sipped our way through Ribeauville before catching a bus back to Colmar.

Top Tips for Walking from Riquewihr to Ribeauville

Buses conveniently transport passengers from Colmar to Riquewihr and back. Tickets can be purchased from the driver and cost about €4 each way.

Request a bus schedule from the Colmar Tourist Info Office – and ask for an explanation of which buses are running on the day of your trip. Not all buses run year-round or all days of the week and there are no buses on Sundays. Also, ask them to mark the bus stops on a Colmar map and confirm the most current ticket prices.

In Riquewihr stop at the Tourist Info Office (located on the main street) for an Alsace Wine Walking Map. While at the TI, also pick up informative pamphlets on the towns, if you are interested in learning more about the sights. From Ribeauville, it is possible to continue hiking to the castle ruins in the hills above town, which takes about an hour each direction.

Pro Tip: Visitors who would prefer a guided tour of the Wine Route in Alsace can let a guide lead the way on this popular tour .

#3 Bike to Eguisheim, France

Day trips from Colmar, France are not limited to public transportation – Eguisheim, just southwest of Colmar, can be reached by bicycle. We pedaled our way from the Colmar train station along the river, through open fields to Eguisheim, another popular historic town in Alsace.

It took less than an hour for us to navigate the route from Colmar to Eguisheim – and we stopped often to take photos. Once we arrived in Eguisheim, we locked up our bikes (just around the corner from the Tourist Info Office) and set off to explore.

At the center of the Medieval village, which was awarded the ‘Favorite French Town’, is the Chateau Saint-Leon. From the central square (that the castle sits on), three ring roads encircle the town. We lazily looped around Eguisheim on foot, marveling at the architecture and reading about the history on informational plaques placed around town.

Top Tips for Biking in Colmar

Biking is one of the popular Colmar activities and there are a few places to rent bikes in the city. We rented our bikes from Colmar Velo – Velodocteurs, which is located at the Colmar train station and bike rentals cost as little as €11 for 5 hours.

Top Tip: Ask for a free Colmar Cycling Map – and, if you are biking to Eguisheim, ask for the best route (which differed from the route we thought we would take).

#4 Dine al Fresco in Colmar

During our Colmar visit, the weather was incredible – sunny skies, but not hot. It was perfect weather for dining al fresco and throughout the Old Town, there are numerous Colmar restaurants that offer outdoor dining and feature local Alsace cuisine.

Craving something simple and light, we stumbled on Winstub La Krutenau in Little Venice. The riverside restaurant has only three food menu items – all of which are a variation of Tarte Flambee. The crispy, cheese-covered dish – similar to pizza – was exactly what we were looking for (although recent reviews reflect otherwise!).

More Restaurants in Colmar

There are many incredible Colmar, France restaurants that feature local cuisine and international fare. We have a few more tips for where to eat in Colmar. 

Wistub Brenner

A classic and cozy restaurant in Colmar, Wistub Brenner focuses on traditional Alsatian food that is perfectly presented. The menu features 3-course meal options; highlights are the pork knuckle and foie gras – but save room for the delectable desserts. 

La Caveau Saint Pierre

Housed in a quaint half-timbered house along the canal, Caveau Sant Pierre Restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. The authentic meals are exquisitely prepared and offered at fair prices. 

Situated in the Champ du Mars park, JY’s is a fine dining restaurant (with two Michelin stars). Patrons can expect exceptional service and phenomenal French fare.

Pro Tip: Looking for more ideas of what to eat in Colmar? Check out these reviews on TripAdvisor .

Picnic in Colmar, France

Visitors who want to experience something different from restaurants in Colmar can prepare a fun picnic lunch – like we did!

In the morning, we went to the Covered Market Halle for a little Colmar shopping. We perused the items for sale at the Colmar shops and started gathering items for a late afternoon picnic at Parc du Champ de Mars. At the shops, we found some of the best food in Colmar, France: Munster cheese with cumin spice, freshly baked baguettes and almond-stuffed olives.

Pro Tip : The Covered Market Halle has several restaurants, where you can dine before you shop. We started our Colmar shopping adventure with a quiche and fresh-squeezed orange juice at the small café in the center of the market. 

#5 Sip Alsace Wine and Local French Craft Beer

Being smack in the middle of the Alsace Wine Region, drinking the locally produced wine should be on every Colmar itinerary!

Alsatian Wine

Most of the wine in Alsace is white, including varietals such as Riesling, Muscat, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. Pinot Noir is the sole red wine in Alsace, however, it is quite light in comparison to some other Pinot Noirs.

Local French wine is available at every café, restaurant and grocery store in Colmar. After long days of sightseeing, finding a café in the Colmar Old Town where we could relax and swirl and sip Alsace wine was sublime!

Pro Tip: If you are planning to bring a few bottles home (who could resist?!), make sure you pack your wine properly so it arrives safely!

Craft Beer in Colmar, France

Beer drinkers, don’t despair! While wine is certainly the most popular drink of choice in Colmar, they have French craft beer as well! Our go-to spot for drinking craft beer in Colmar is Les 3 Singes (The Three Monkeys), where they offer a wide drink selection in a friendly atmosphere.

There is one local craft brewery in Colmar, Brasserie St. Cru, which is located about 4km north of the Old Town. Although we never made it to the brewery, we heard it was a cool spot for Colmar nightlife.

Alsace Wine Tour

While it is fun to stop into different bars and restaurants to sample the local wine, visitors interested in learning more about the wine in Colmar while meeting other travelers can join a guided tour through the Alsace wine region!

Both  Full-Day and Half-Day wine tours are available where participants enjoy both the tastings and the scenery! 

More Tips For Visiting Colmar, France

We have more tips for visiting Colmar and the Alsace Region – like day trips, where to stay, how to get there and our best packing hacks !

Day Tours From Colmar, France

Need more tips of what to do in Colmar, France? The city makes a great base for exploring the Alsace Region. We already highlighted a popular Colmar walking tour ( info here ) and the wine tours from Colmar ( like this one ), but we have a few more ideas for popular tours from Colmar.

Gems of Alsace Day Tour

Explore the beautiful Alsace region with a professional guide. Stroll along cobblestone streets in small towns and learn about the history and culture of Alsace on a full-day tour. Book it now!  

The 4 Wonders of Alsace

See some of the most picturesque villages in the region – Eguisheim, Ribeuville, Riquewihr and Kayserberg – and sample fine local wines with a professional guide. Reserve your seat!

3 Country Tour

Colmar is ideally situated close to three country borders – making it easy for visitors to spend the day experiencing France , Germany and Switzerland with a professional guide.  Get the details!

Chateau du Hohlandsbourg

A hilltop castle dating to the year 1279, Chateau du Hohlandsbourg is one of the interesting places to visit near Colmar, France. Open to the public from spring until autumn, the historic monument features stunning 360-degree views and exhibitions. There is a small entry fee to go inside the Hohlandsbourg Chateau. 

Festivals in Colmar, France

Colmar is a beautiful destination on its own, but travelers may want to plan their Colmar trip to coincide with one of the city’s top festivals. 

Colmar International Festival

A classical music festival in Colmar, the Colmar International Festival is a musical experience unlike any other. The programming includes symphonic music, choral works and chamber music. 

Alsace Wine Fair

The Wine Fair in Alsace (called Foire aux vins d’Alsace) is an annual event that takes place in the summertime. The celebrations include exhibitions, entertainment, concerts…and loads of local wine, of course! 

Museums in Colmar

There are a few Colmar museums that visitors may want to include in their itinerary for Colmar, France. We are highlighting a few of the top picks. There is an entry fee required for these Colmar activities. 

Unterlinden Museum

Housed in a 13th Century Dominican Convent, the Unterlinden Museum is the best art museum in Colmar. The museum features everything from ancient artifacts to masterpieces from Medieval times to contemporary artworks from local artists.

Musee du Jouet

The Musee du Jouet is a toy museum that displays popular toys through the decades (stretching back to the 1800s). The exhibits of dolls and trains are a highlight. 

Bartholdi Museum

The Musee Bartholdi is dedicated to the life of artist Auguste Bartholdi, the famous designer who sculpted the Statue of Liberty. The small museum showcases his works and models. 

Map of Colmar, France Things To Do

Use this link to Google Maps for a interactive version of our Colmar Map. 

How To Plan a Trip to Colmar

Now that you know the best Colmar places to visit and things to do, it’s time to start planning your trip! We have a few tips that will help you plan the perfect trip to Colmar.

Organize your Colmar Trip Planning

There is a lot more to planning a trip than determining what to see in Colmar. No worries – we are sharing tips for travel basics – like how to get there and where to stay next. 

We also share heaps of tips in our travel guides for nearby destinations. Find out what to see in Strasbourg , the best sights in Basel Switzerland , attractions in Freiburg Germany , and a step-by-step sightseeing plan for Zurich . Plus, we can’t forget how to spend a perfect Week in Paris . 

Visitors traveling from aboard can find more general tips for visiting Colmar and Europe in our Guide to Planning a European Vacation . 

As you research and start making reservations for your trip to Colmar, France, you need to stay organized. We recommend using a Travel Planner – like our Trip Planning Printables – to get and stay organized for your vacation to Colmar!

What is the Best Time to Visit Colmar, France

Visiting Colmar in France is wonderful anytime of year; deciding what is the best time to go to Colmar will depend on your desired activities. 

Summer in Colmar

Summertime is a great time to visit Colmar. The weather is warm and there are many events taking place. That said, Colmar can get crowded in the summer, which makes it difficult to get dinner reservations and increases the price of accommodations. 

Colmar Spring and Autumn 

The spring and autumn mark the shoulder season in Colmar. While the temperatures are cooler and rain is more than likely in the forecast, there are fewer crowds and lower prices. 

Wintertime in Colmar

Some travelers may wonder what to do in Colmar in winter, but we can assure you it is a fabulous time to visit. The best things to do in Colmar in December are centered around the amazing Colmar Christmas Markets! Just pack and plan for colder weather.

Looking for more wintertime destinations? We highlight the Best Places for Christmas in Europe !

How Many Days in Colmar

During our trip to Colmar, we spent 3 days in the city. However, we understand that not all travelers will stay in Colmar for multiple days – so we are outlining a few basic Colmar itineraries to help fellow travelers plan their time.

One Day in Colmar

Visitors limited to sightseeing in Colmar for one day will want to make the absolute most of their time. We recommend exploring independently on foot (or booking a walking tour ) – making sure to see the top Colmar sights. In the afternoon, join a half-day Alsace wine tour ( like this one ) and be back by the evening for a delicious local meal. 

Two Day Colmar Itinerary

With two days, visitors can experience Colmar at a slower pace. On the first day, visit the top Old Town Colmar sights and stop at the market to pick up picnic items for lunch. In the afternoon, rent bikes to explore the region – and consider pedaling all the way to Eguisheim. Back in the city before dark, enjoy an al fresco dinner. 

On Day 2, set off on a full-day tour of the region – either complete a self-guided tour along the Alsace Wine Route or book a full-day excursion . 

3 Days in Colmar

Visitors planning to visit Colmar in 3 days will have ample time to see the sights and taste the local cuisine. We recommend following our tips for what to do in Colmar in 2 days – then on the last day, join the 3 Country Tour . Alternatively, guests who want to stay in Colmar for the day can opt to visit one – or more – of the city’s fabulous museums. 

Colmar, France Accommodation

There are many choices of accommodations in Colmar. We think the best places to stay in Colmar, France are in – or near – the city center.

During our Colmar trip, we stayed at the Ibis Budget Colmar Centre , which we liked for the affordability, simple and bright design and (mostly) the location. It is just a short walk from the Colmar train station, the Colmar Tourist Information Office and Old Town.

Hotels in Colmar

Travelers will find that there are many hotels in Old Town Colmar, France to choose from. Check out these highly-rated Colmar hotels: James Boutique Hotel , La Maison des Tetes , Hotel Le Colombier Suites .

Before you start your search, use our tips for finding the best hotels – then click over to Booking.com to look for availability!

Getting to Colmar, France

Colmar can be reached by train, bus or car .

For our trip to Colmar, we arrived via train from Basel, Switzerland and departed via bus to Frankfurt . There are several train and bus routes that serve Colmar. In fact, it’s possible to travel by train on a Paris to Colmar day trip (although, even the fastest trains take 3.5 hours – so it is a really long day trip). 

That said, train travel to Colmar is very convenient from other nearby cities. 

Strasbourg to Colmar

The train between Strasbourg, France and Colmar takes just 30 minutes and costs around $10 USD. Use our Guide to Strasbourg, France to plan what to do in that fantastic city!

Freiburg, Germany to Colmar

The train journey from Freiburg, Germany to Colmar takes about 2 hours to complete. Visitors spending time in Freiburg can use our Freiburg, Germany Guide!

Before You Go To Colmar: What To Pack

We have a few final travel tips on what to pack for Colmar. Travelers can find all of our advice on our Packing Tips blog page. Need a packing checklist? Get your FREE checklist for packing here ! 

Walking Shoes

Colmar is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes ! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I was comfortable walking on the cobblestones and through the vineyards in these shoes by Columbia . Kris liked wearing his trail shoes by Merrell .

C amera to Capture the Colmar Sights

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your trip to France. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual travel camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is great for beginners) and a Canon PowerShot ELPH (which takes beautiful pictures, is slim, lightweight and a good budget camera option ).

Colmar and France Guidebook

Travelers interested in the best Colmar wines can use the Wines of Alsace guidebook for the top vineyards and wines of the region. 

Exploring more of France? Make sure to have a good guidebook before arriving.

With long days of sightseeing, you will want to make sure you bring a travel day bag . An ideal day pack is comfortable to carry, has multiple pockets and can fit everything you will need (like your guidebook, camera and other travel essentials ).

France Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip to France, consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to France ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

We want to know:  What would you add to our list of things to do in Colmar, France? Give us your best tips and advice in the comments below! 

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10 Things That Make Colmar a Must-See (Colmar Travel Guide)

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I’ve never encountered a French town as colorful, charming, and reminiscent of Germany as Colmar. Nestled in France’s Grand Est region, it proudly holds the title of the capital of the Alsatian Wine Route. With its enchanting half-timbered houses, nearby castles, and of course, its wines, Colmar undeniably ranks among the most romantic adorable towns in France.

If you’ve explored Strasbourg and reveled in its Old Town’s beauty , you might wonder if a visit to Colmar is necessary, as they offer a similar aesthetic experience. Colmar, with its lower levels of crowding, promises a more enchanting and intimate experience, perfect for those seeking a truly magical moment during their travels.

In this post, I’ll unveil the treasures I’ve unearthed in Colmar, each a testament to its unique charm, and perhaps, the very reasons that will inspire your visit to this remarkable town.

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you.

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If you’ve explored German towns like Nuremberg , Rothenburg ob der Tauber , Bamberg , or the quaint locales in the Black Forest , Franconia, and Lower Bavaria, the fairytale streets of Colmar might feel familiar. Why? Despite being a French town, Colmar’s close proximity to Germany and its history have shaped it to mirror these German towns closely.

Did you know? Colmar have been under German rule twice: first from 1871 to 1919 and then during World War II. These historical periods have profoundly influenced the town, resulting in a fascinating fusion of French and German architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Even Voltaire, who resided here from 1753 to 1754, aptly described the city as half-German and half-French.

Colmar’s unique blend of French and German culture is evident in its language and architecture. While French is the official language, you may also hear some residents speaking Alsatian, a dialect influenced by both French and German.

As for the architecture, Colmar showcases a style that’s typical of both German and French traditions. This style is characterized by buildings with a wooden framework filled with masonry or plaster. Absolutely, this fusion of cultures gives Colmar its distinctive charm.

Should You Visit Colmar?

For those seeking new and unique experiences , Colmar is a must-visit destination. Especially if you’re fascinated by the harmonious blend of French and German cultures, you’ll find Colmar’s eye-pleasing street architecture and delectable cuisine something to explore and try.

Even though Colmar is now considered a city, its quaint country atmosphere still lingers along its streets. You’ll surely notice it as you walk through the old town.

That said, I think Colmar is an ideal getaway for those in search of a retreat. Surrounded by beauty, surely, they could uplift their spirits in Colmar. The medieval charm of the Alsace Region in Colmar offers a fantastic throwback experience, allowing you to leave your worries behind.

And yes – people seeking beauty: you’ll find something photo-worthy everywhere you look in the old town. It’s not just the half-timbered houses that are charming; there are also lovely fountains, courtyards, and canals to explore.

Traveling shouldn’t only be about taking pictures, right? As travelers, we want to get something valuable out of our trip. Either it’s a memorable moment or a new discovery/learning. Well, Colmar has some to offer! The city has museums to let you discover their culture, romantic canals to give you a Venice-like experience, and more. 

If you’re a couple traveling in Europe, the picturesque old town of Colmar could be the perfect setting for a romantic date. During your visit to Colmar, the vibrant half-timbered houses, ancient churches steeped in history, and insightful museums will ensure that you have a delightful and thoroughly entertaining experience on that special trip you’ve been dreaming of together.

If you think Colmar can be your worthwhile destination, this is the sign that you should! We will discuss more details in the following sections.

Here’s the link where you can find the best hotel deals in Colmar .

10 Beautiful Things to Do and See in Colmar

The main attraction in Colmar is its old town (or Vieux Colmar ). Charming and time-transporting, it’s definitely the primary reason to visit Colmar. I personally find Old Town Colmar as a place where we can escape our stressful work, tiresome worries, and other negative thoughts.

With its medieval fairytale flair, it’s easy to spark our imagination and transport ourselves to a different time and place. Like watching a movie, visiting Colmar is enough to make me forget about all the bad things occupying my mind. But unlike watching a movie, traveling in Colmar is a more immersive and rewarding experience, leaving me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

While feeling emotionally and mentally better is just the beginning of the many wonderful benefits of visiting Colmar, this romantic getaway and escape can also be a source of creative inspiration.

Did you know that Alsace, and specifically Colmar, is an inspiration for creatives all over the world One person inspired by Colmar was in Japan. His name is Hayao Miyazaki , the co-founder of Studio Ghibli. The Traveling Castle , his film, clearly depicts the charming Alsatian architecture.

Colmar has many more benefits to offer, as summarized below:

• Colmar’s architectural heritage (See awe-inspiring and picture-perfect views in the city)
• Colmar’s Little Venice (Make some unforgettable moments)
• Historical museums in Colmar (Tap into fascinating Alsatian history, art, and culture)
• Fun museums in Colmar (Let the whole family enjoy)
• Light effects during the night in Colmar (Witness the spectacular medieval town turn futuristic)
• Colmar’s spectacular events and festivals (Experience the culture at its peak)
• Wines and vineyards in Colmar (Discover what Alsace is known for)
• Castles around Colmar (Complete your dream fantasy experience)
•  Scenic Trails from Colmar (Behold some breathtaking views and fall in love with the countryside)
• The Nautical Base Colmar (Relaxation after everything)

Trivia! Colmar is so beautiful that it has been replicated in other parts of the world, such as Malaysia. You can find a replica of this charming town in the hills near Kuala Lumpur, which also includes a copy of a French castle. We will discuss the replica in more detail later. See all the best things to do in Colmar here (guides and tours).

1. Architectural Heritage

With its abundance of charming half-timbered edifices reflecting the Renaissance era, it’s undeniable that Colmar possesses an extraordinary architectural legacy. This is, without a doubt, the primary reason to visit Colmar.

Vieux Colmar consistently mesmerizes its visitors, more so on a clear, sunny day. The residences in Colmar, adorned in delicate pastel shades, explode into dazzling colors when kissed by sunlight. The views are so awe-striking that they inspire you to immortalize them in photographs.

They aren’t just the houses, though. The architectural beauty extends from the humble abodes of fishermen to age-old churches. As you meander through the town, you’ll encounter charming fountains and bridges adorned with flowers – perfect spots for a memorable selfie.

Among the charming structures in Colmar, three stand out as must-sees: the Pfister House, the House of Heads, and Koïfhus. But don’t miss the opportunity to admire the vibrant houses of the fishermen situated along the banks of the La Lauch River. Equally captivating are the grand houses with their pristine white facades in the Tanneurs district.

If there’s talk of a charming corner house in Colmar, it must be the Pfister House . This structure hails from the Renaissance period and features murals gracing the walls of its top floor. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Saint Martin’s Church, it’s not hard to locate.

Another stunning edifice is the House of Heads, which also dates back to the Renaissance. Its unique name comes from the 106 grotesque masks that decorate its facade. It could be an amusing game to try and locate and count all 106 heads when you’re in front of this building .

Last but not least is Koïfhus, another Renaissance building that captivates with its enchanting tile roof, designed to resemble a pineapple’s skin. Koïfhus is conveniently located along Grand Rue , just a few steps south of Église Saint-Matthieu.

2. Little Venice

Like many towns, rivers have played a crucial role in the growth and prosperity of communities in Colmar. However, the river here serves a broader purpose today than it did in the past. It has become a place where travelers can create some of their most cherished memories in Colmar.

The river is known as La Lauch, but it’s often referred to as Little Venice due to the similar experiences it offers.

Undoubtedly, Little Venice is another compelling reason to visit Colmar.

It’s the ideal spot for celebrations or for making memories that you’ll cherish forever. However, visiting Little Venice in Colmar doesn’t require a special occasion or companionship. Exploring alone can be just as enjoyable. The stunning sight of the pastel-colored half-timbered houses might just provide the peaceful escape you’ve been longing for!

Little Venice will undoubtedly fill your camera with stunning photos, especially during Colmar’s spring season. This is the time when flowers beautify the river railings and the quaint half-timbered houses that surround them. The idyllic scenery can make you leave all your concerns and anxieties behind.

But if you ask me, experiencing Colmar and its Little Venice with a loved one can make the visit even more worthwhile. After all, isn’t it wonderful to discuss life’s beautiful aspects while appreciating the romantic scenes everywhere?

You can enjoy these moments either on a gondola or at the riverside restaurants. However, you don’t need to spend money or purchase a meal to experience the magic I’m talking about. Little Venice offers numerous spots that provide opportunities for these memorable experiences, and the best part is, they’re absolutely free.

3. Historical Museums

Although Colmar isn’t as large as cities like Paris or Lyon with an abundance of new attractions, it doesn’t imply that there’s a shortage of unique things to explore in Colmar. Most of these treasures are tucked away in the town’s historical museums. There are three notable museums in Colmar that feature intriguing exhibits: firstly, the Unterlinden Museum, followed by the Bartholdi and Hansi Museums.

Tip: Opt for a Colmar Pass to gain access to all the museums in town, along with a boat ride and a journey on the little green tourist train.

Similar to key French cities, Colmar features ancient structures that have been transformed for modern use. Just as Paris is known for the Louvre, Colmar is recognized for Unterlinden. This historical museum is a significant attraction that makes a visit to Colmar worthwhile.

The Unterlinden Museum , which was a Dominican convent in the 13th century, currently houses an array of Upper Rhenish Renaissance and medieval art. Its most distinguished piece is the Isenheim Altarpiece, a grand early-16th century work by renowned German Renaissance artist Matthias Grünewald, prominently displaying a poignant image of Jesus crucified.

The Isenheim Altarpiece features an image of Jesus on the cross, his body riddled with skin ailments. This representation of Jesus conveys to the patients that He comprehends their pain, reflecting the monastery’s purpose of comforting and assisting individuals suffering from skin diseases.

The Unterlinden Museum is also architecturally impressive, with its roof echoing the design of Koïfhus. The museum-monastery’s cloister is a perfect spot for Instagram photos, especially on a bright day when the strong sunlight streams through the arches, creating a striking effect on the pathway.

Conversely, the Bartholdi Museum is home to a collection of artworks by the renowned sculptor Auguste Bartholdi. He is the creative genius behind the iconic Statue of Liberty, a symbol that has been replicated and displayed in various countries. Interestingly, the museum was once Bartholdi’s residence.

Last but certainly not least among the three museums is the Hansi Museum . This museum is dedicated to the French hero Jean-Jacques Waltz, more commonly known as Oncle Hansi. Not only a hero, but he was also an artist, and his museum houses his artworks. His masterpieces offer a glimpse into Alsatian cultural heritage.

4. Fun Museums

Trips to museums can often reveal intriguing finds. They might occasionally feel like a slow part of our journeys, but in Colmar, they can also be a source of great fun! Exciting museums are a compelling reason to visit Colmar, particularly if you’re on a family vacation. This is even more relevant if you have young children.

These museums offer perfect settings for creating memorable family moments. Of all the museums in Colmar, the Toy Museum and the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum are likely to be the most enjoyable for your family. Their names alone give a hint of the unique experiences they provide.

If you wish to introduce your kids to the way games were played before the advent of the internet, a visit to Colmar’s Toy Museum is in order. The museum houses an array of toys, with some dating back to the 19th century and others from more recent times. Also, it offers a games area where you and your family can partake in various games, fostering an atmosphere of amusement and shared laughter.

swipe the 360° image below to see more views

The Toy Museum in Colmar, with its three floors of nostalgic treasures, is sure to take you on a trip down memory lane. It appears to house every type of toy imaginable, from vintage teddy bears and miniature trains to Barbie dolls and robots, not to mention antique toys! Whether you’re a millennial or a baby boomer, you’ll have plenty of stories to share with your kids about the good old days.

Learn more about Colmar’s Toy Museum from their official website museejouet.com

If you’re seeking a delightful blend of fascination and gastronomic satisfaction, then a visit to Colmar’s Schaal Chocolate Factory is a must. During your tour, you’ll gain insights into the intricate process of chocolate making. Expert chocolatiers will guide you through the journey, even letting you try your hand at crafting your own chocolate!

Here is the website of the Chocolate Museum in Colmar in case you want to learn more about the experiences they offer.

5. Light effects at night

The best days to experience Colmar are on Fridays and Saturdays. All year round, these days host captivating light shows in the town. The houses that you admired during daylight hours become even more magnificent when illuminated at night! It feels as though the whole town has been given a new coat of paint with the lights turned on.

This breathtaking display, which is free for all to enjoy, is undoubtedly a compelling reason to visit Colmar and stay overnight.

The lightshow in Colmar is super well-designed, with all these computers and fiber optic cables controlling the lights. The effects are synchronized perfectly and it just takes the whole Colmar experience up a notch.

Some houses have simple static lights, but others – think fountains, churches, major landmarks – they’re all decked out with these dynamic light effects that dance and flicker in mesmerizing patterns.

Diverse images are cast onto the exteriors of these structures, frequently telling miniature tales associated with the event. It’s worth noting that these light displays also occur on evenings when the town hosts major events. The Regional Alsace Wine Fair and the Christmas Market are two such prominent events.

Just like Colmar, Reims also hosts a magnificent light show! This spectacle unfolds on the facade of the Notre Dame Basilica in Reims , a historic site where French kings were crowned for centuries.

6. Spectacular events and festivals

Absolutely, you’ve got it right from the title. Major events and festivals are indeed a compelling reason to visit Colmar. It’s during these times that Colmar transforms into a veritable wonderland! There are three particular seasons or events when Colmar becomes an irresistible destination.

These include the Spring Festival (Fete Le Printemps), the Christmas market, and the Alsace Wine Fair. During these events, you can look forward to breathtaking lighting effects illuminating Colmar at night (as mentioned earlier).

Looking to step into a fairy tale world? Then you should definitely experience the Spring Festival in Colmar . The town, especially Vieux Colmar, is adorned with vibrant flowers and decorations.

Make sure your camera has plenty of storage; you’ll want to capture countless photos of this enchanting event! The Spring Festival offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s Easter traditions. Beyond the beautifully decorated houses, trees, railings, and fountains, you’ll find lively events and street exhibitions. Local talents often perform during the festival, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

And the best part? The concerts are free for everyone to enjoy! You’ll also discover spring and Easter markets brimming with local merchandise. And let’s not forget about the food! Alsatian specialties such as fine wines, charcuterie, cheese, and beers are waiting to tantalize your taste buds!

Colmar transforms into a magical wonderland during Christmas. Like many towns influenced by German culture, Colmar also hosts a Christmas Market . Without a doubt, it’s one of the best times of the year to visit Colmar, much like the spring season.

Typically, from the last week of November through December, Colmar sparkles with twinkling Christmas lights. Coupled with its stunning architecture and the gentle fall of snow, Colmar could very well be the winter wonderland you’ve been dreaming of.

Wondering which of the three events I mentioned is the most special? It has to be the Alsace Wine Fair . This event is a standout reason to visit Colmar, particularly if you’re keen on experiencing a unique French tradition. The Alsace Wine Fair is a special occasion in Grand Est, showcasing the region’s finest wines and unique products.

If you find yourself in Colmar during the fair, make sure to visit the open-air theater “la Coquille.” You can join the crowd of around 10,000 people, enjoying music performed by national and international artists. As the name suggests, the Alsace Wine Fair is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. You’ll have the opportunity to taste wines from 1,500 samples of the best Alsatian grape varieties.

7. Wines and vineyards

If Italy has Cinque Terre , Switzerland has Lavaux Region ( Geneva – Montreux ), Germany has Franconia ( Bamberg , Rothenburg ob der Tauber , Nuremberg , Wurzburg ), then France has Alsace (Colmar). What’s one thing they have in common? They have good wines . And, yep, wines are a reason to visit Colmar!

(In case you missed) Did you know that Colmar is the capital of Alsatian wine ? Colmar is in the heart of the Alsatian Wine Route. If you want to explore the Alsatian Wine Route and drown your tastebuds with some of the best wines in France, Colmar is the best place to start.

According to the official website of Colmar tourism , the Alsatian wines are made from 7 special vines.

• The Sylvaner – light, refreshing, fruity and subtle.
• The Pinot Blanc – is soft and delicate, with a touch of freshness.
• The  Riesling – dry, fine, with a subtle bouquet.
• The Muscat d’Alsace – dry, with flavors of fresh grapes.
• The Pinot Gris – is powerful and soft, with a complex bouquet.
• The Gewurztraminer – full-bodied, robust, with a great aromatic richness.
• The Pinot Noir – red or rosé, with a fruity taste reminiscent of cherry.

Wine lovers, have you tried all of them? Bless not only your eyes when you see the beautiful streets of Colmar. But also your tastebuds craving for the wines served in Colmar! I’m not an expert in wines, so I leave you this link to the tourism website of the Alsace region . It will tell you everything that you need to know about the wines made in Alsace.

Surrounded by winegrowers and vast vineyards, Colmar sits at the core of the Alsatian Wine Route. However, it’s not just vineyards that make this place special. Did you know that Colmar is also dotted with numerous medieval castles? This makes sense considering Colmar is in Alsace, a region steeped in German culture.

With more than 500 castles in Alsace, at least 10 can be found within or close to Colmar’s commune territory. Some of these castles may be in ruins now, but the ones still standing provide visitors with an extraordinary journey into the past.

Frankly, Colmar is a destination that’s truly worth visiting! With its enchanting half-timbered houses, quaint cobblestone lanes, and vineyards that exude a country charm – not to mention the castles – it’s a place that shouldn’t be missed. A trip to this town offers a comprehensive journey back to medieval Alsace.

In my opinion, the castles alone provide enough allure to visit Colmar. Their magical aesthetic, combined with the unique geography of Alsace, makes them all the more extraordinary.

Nestled in the forest or majestically perched atop the Vosges mountain range, the castles in Alsace offer a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The scenic surroundings enhance the experience of visiting these architectural marvels, making a trip to Colmar a truly immersive escape.

If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss out on Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, Château de Saint-Ulrich, and Château du Hohlandsbourg.

Each castle is situated on a mountaintop, with Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg being the only one that remains intact. Of the three, Château du Hohlandsbourg is the closest to Colmar. Dating back to the 13th century, it bears the scars of destruction from the Thirty Years’ War.

At Château du Hohlandsbourg, you have the opportunity to traverse extensive parts of the castle, including its formidable walls. Picture yourself as a sentinel, overseeing the city of Colmar from this grand fortress. The castle features animations and entertainment that help you visualize scenes from its rich 700-year history.

Learn more about Château du Hohlandsbourg from its official website chateau-hohlandsbourg.com

Château de Saint-Ulrich shares many similarities with Château du Hohlandsbourg. Constructed in the 13th century, it too offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. However, the true spectacle lies a short 30 to 40-minute drive north of Colmar at Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg.

The exact date of its construction remains a mystery, but historical documents suggest its existence since the mid-12th century. Today, it stands as a historical monument and is considered one of the top attractions in Grand Est.

To me, Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg bears a striking resemblance to Neuschwanstein Castle , largely due to its mountaintop location. However, what truly completes the medieval-fairytale experience of a trip to Colmar is the castle’s distinctive appearance and its fascinating collections.

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is probably one of the most impressive mountaintop castles in France.

To me, the most enthralling aspects of Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg are its opulent halls featuring magnificent murals and its formidable military installations. Additionally, the castle offers several viewpoints from its towers and battlements, each presenting a stunning panorama of the Alsace region.

You can learn more from Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg’s official website .

The northeastern region of France, home to Colmar, is truly a fairytale come to life. However, don’t miss out on exploring the South of France – a region brimming with some of the country’s most stunning locales! Your journey could begin with the charming city of Avignon .

9. Scenic Trails

As I often emphasize, Colmar is the ideal destination for those seeking a retreat from the everyday. Beyond its captivating architecture, rich art, and deep-rooted history, the natural beauty surrounding Colmar contributes to a truly fulfilling journey. This means that not only history buffs but also adventurers and nature enthusiasts have ample reasons to visit Colmar.

After all, the town is nestled amidst mountains and offers picturesque views. While it may not rival the grandeur of the Swiss Alps , Italian Dolomites , or the Bavarian Alps , the natural landscapes around Colmar provide just the right touch of nature’s charm for most of us.

Visitors wanting to see the nature around Colmar can either hike or use bicycles ( traditional and electric ) to explore. There are two cycling/hiking trails I know you can follow. The trail along the Colmar Canal and Lazarus Schwendi Trail .  But if you want to explore other cycling/hiking trails, you may look at this PDF file from the official tourism website of Colmar.

Or this brochure:

I highly recommend the Colmar canal trail for several reasons. Firstly, the soothing sound of water flowing through the canal adds a tranquil ambiance to the hike. The trail also winds through several quaint villages and past century-old trees, leading all the way to the German border.

However, if your interest lies in exploring the castles near Colmar, the Lazarus Schwendi Trail is a better choice. This trail spans two kilometers and connects Pflixbourg Castle and Hohlandsbourg Castle.

10. The Nautical Base

From what I’ve mentioned so far, it’s evident that Colmar offers a complete travel experience in France. But there’s more! Would you believe me if I told you that Colmar has its own beach? Indeed, it does!

The Base Nautique, located just to the north of the town, is a delightful spot. Although it’s essentially a swimming lake with a beach, it’s perfect for some leisure time or family fun.

Base Nautique offers fun for all ages. Whether you’re engaging in a friendly game of volleyball or soccer with your loved ones, or renting a pedal and paddle boat to explore the lake, there’s something for everyone.

The Nautical Base also features a massive floating aqua park complete with trampolines and diving boards. Just picturing it, you can already sense the excitement! Essentially, the Nautical Base provides the perfect opportunity to soak up some sun before or after immersing yourself in the fairytale-like charm of Colmar’s old town.

You can learn more details about Nautical Base from the agglo-colmar website (in French, but you can translate it with your browser).

Best Time to Visit Colmar

Given all the wonderful aspects of Colmar that I’ve shared with you, I wouldn’t be surprised if you’re already eager to pack your bags and head there. But hold on just a moment! There are a few factors to consider, such as the best time to visit this enchanting city.

The ideal time to visit Colmar, especially for wandering in the Old Town and photography, is between mid-May and mid-September. During these months, the weather is at its most pleasant, with lots of sunshine and warm temperatures averaging around 18°C to 22°C.

The peak tourist season is in August, followed by September and May. During these months, you might find that the town is crowded and accommodation prices are at their highest. If you prefer a more relaxed visit with fewer tourists, consider planning your trip for early autumn or late spring.

The town hosts a variety of events throughout the year that cater to different interests. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, don’t miss the Christmas markets which have been voted as the one of the best in Europe .

In spring, the town comes alive with Easter celebrations. Music enthusiasts should check out the Colmar International Festival, which pays tribute to Ivry Gitlis. And if you’re a wine lover, make sure to visit during the Alsace Wine Fair, the highlight of the summer season in Colmar.

See all events in Colmar here.

In Colmar, the climate varies significantly throughout the year. Summers are warm with temperatures averaging around 20.6°C in July, while winters can be very cold with average temperatures dropping to around 2.4°C in January. The town receives about 605 millimeters of rainfall annually, with May typically being the wettest month and September being the driest.

How Long to Stay in Colmar

The duration of your stay in Colmar can vary, ranging from a minimum of two days just for exploring the town itself, up to five days if you plan to delve into the broader Alsace region. It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the actual number of days you spend can depend on your personal interests and pace.

The right duration really hinges on what you want to experience. If your primary goal is to discover the highlights of Colmar, then dedicating 48 hours or two days to the town is a great choice. This allows you to allocate one day for exploring Colmar’s key attractions and another day for additional activities.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace, it’s advisable to book a stay in Colmar for two to three days. This provides a comfortable timeframe to savor the town and its surroundings at a leisurely rhythm.

For those who wish to venture beyond Colmar and explore attractions like castles and vineyards in the Alsace region, extending your stay is recommended. Spending at least three days in Colmar is optimal, as it affords ample time to visit both the town’s top tourist spots and those further afield.

If you plan to use Colmar as a base for exploring other towns in Alsace (i.e., Strasbourg), a stay ranging from three to five days would be ideal.

How to Get to Colmar

Coming from far away places, there are several options to reach Colmar.

The closest airport to Colmar is Strasbourg Airport (SXB). However, there are more convenient options for reaching Colmar. You can catch a train from Zurich (ZRH) to Colmar via Zürich HB and Basel Sbb, which takes approximately 2 hours and 22 minutes. Other nearby airports include Basel (BSL) at a distance of 55.1 km and Stuttgart (STR) at 151.6 km.

If you’re coming from Stuttgart, here are your travel options: By train, bus, and by car. If you prefer the trains, Begin by taking the train from Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof to Strasbourg Bahnhof, and then transfer to the train from Strasbourg to Colmar. The total travel time is approximately 2 hours. FlixBus operates a daily bus service from Stuttgart West to Colmar and the journey takes about 2 hours and 55 minutes. You can also opt to drive from Stuttgart to Colmar, with the drive typically lasting around 2 hours and 11 minutes.

Although Paris is more than 500 kilometers from Colmar, it can also serve as entry point to get to Colmar. From Paris, you can take either the high-speed TGV train or the budget-friendly Ouigo train, both offering direct routes from Paris to Colmar.

The TGV journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. This quick train journey allows travelers have day trip to Colmar from Paris . The Ouigo train, while slightly longer at about 3 hours, often comes with lower fares. There are also trains with a brief stopover in Strasbourg, getting you to Colmar in under three hours.

Alternatively, a daily overnight bus departs from Bercy Seine station in Paris and arrives directly in Colmar the next morning. The entire trip lasts approximately 8 hours and 40 minutes.

Where to Stay in Colmar

There are two neighborhoods in Colmar best to stay: Vieux Colmar and the area around the train station.

First, Vieux Colmar. It is where the action is!

You’ll be surrounded by stunning medieval houses, historic buildings, and plenty of bars and restaurants. Plus, you’ll be right next to major attractions like the Dominican Church, the Bartholdi Museum, and the Unterlinden Museum. And let’s not forget about Little Venice, the former tanners’ neighborhood, with its charming canals and flower-lined quays.

Downside? Since this is a hot spot for tourists, it can get pretty crowded during peak seasons.

On the flip side, the area around the train station has a wide range of places to stay and is super convenient if you’re traveling by train. It’s great for visiting other places in Alsace, but it’s farther to many attractions in the town as Vieux Colmar.

Here’s where you can find the best hotel deals in Colmar .

Getting Around Colmar

Colmar a bit larger than an average medieval town, but the main attraction, Petite Venice, is totally walkable. If you plan to explore the only the old town, you definitely don’t need to rent a car.

Now, if you’re thinking about checking out other spots in the Alsace region, having a car could come in handy. The A35 motorway cuts right through Alsace from top to bottom, and you can drive the whole thing in less than 2 hours. The smaller roads are where you’ll find those picture-perfect villages and the famous Alsace Wine Route or Peak Route.

But don’t worry if you’re not up for driving. Alsace has got you covered with a pretty solid public transportation system. With 14 railway lines and 161 stations served by the regional express train system (TER), getting around is a breeze. There are also coaches that sync up with train schedules to get you to cities and villages.

And here’s a bonus: you can bring your bike on the train for free, except during rush hour between Strasbourg and Basel.

So to wrap it up, while you don’t need a car to explore Old Town Colmar, it could be useful if you’re planning on seeing more of the Alsace region. But remember, public transportation is always a great option.

Guides and Tours in Colmar

If you’re looking for a more structured way to explore Colmar and Alsace, guided tours are a fantastic option.

These tours are designed to help you navigate the region and uncover its hidden gems without the stress of planning your own itinerary. In Colmar, for example, there are free walking tours that take you through the heart of the Old Town.

You’ll get to discover the charming cobblestone streets and vibrant houses of Petite Venice, all while learning about the town’s rich history from a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re interested in venturing beyond Colmar, there are also tours that cover the wider Alsace region. These tours can take you along the scenic Alsace Wine Route, through picturesque villages, and even into the stunning Vosges mountains. Some tours even offer the chance to sample local wines at a wine cave.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with a group, these guided tours can provide a convenient and enriching way to experience all that Colmar and Alsace have to offer. They take care of the logistics so you can focus on soaking up the sights and sounds of this beautiful region. Plus, they often include local insights that you might miss if you were exploring on your own.

So if you want to make the most of your trip to Colmar and Alsace, consider joining a guided tour.

By the way, if you are looking for destinations in France that can satisfy an escapist’s travel desire, I suggest Annecy or the 10 most beautiful villages in the south of France . Take a look at how I poetically depict each of them:

• Gordes is a village of stone and light, where lavender fields delight the sight, and ancient buildings guard the secrets of the night.
• Eze is a village of sea and sky, where exotic gardens reach up high, and medieval streets tell stories of days gone by.
• Rocamadour is a village of faith and grace, where pilgrims seek the Black Madonna’s face, and cliffside chapels offer a sacred space.
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a village of stars and flowers, where ceramic art shows its colors and powers, and charming streets invite you to spend hours.
• Aigues-Mortes is a village of salt and wine, where city walls recall a royal design, And marshlands host flamingos and other wildlife.
• Carcassonne is a village of history and culture, where a fortified citadel preserves its splendor, and festivals and concerts add to its allure.
• Chamonix is a village of snow and adventure, where Mont Blanc towers over the landscape, and skiing, hiking and paragliding offer thrill and pleasure.
• Domme is a village of views and caves, where the Dordogne valley unfolds in waves, and hidden paintings and stalactites amaze.
• Saint Paul De Vence is a village of art and light, where painters, sculptors and writers found their muse, and galleries, museums and studios display their works.
• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a village of charm and beauty, where houses cling to the cliff above the river, and artists, poets and craftsmen share their creativity.

Save it on Pinterest .

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12 Important Things to Know Before You Visit Colmar France

Visiting Colmar, France was a dream come true that I didn't even realize I had until I was there. It's incredibly close to the east border of the country near Germany, and in the “Alsace” region. It's a charming city that's easy to get to and packs a lot of punch. Here are tips and tricks to know visiting Colmar France, that will help you along on your journey.

1. It's Easy to Get There

Colmar was incredibly easy to get to. I flew into France's Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport and took a high speed train to Alsace. I arrived to Colmar in the early afternoon.

2. It Has Roots in the Middle Ages

This is a city with a lot of history. Its roots date back to the 9th century AD and its architecture is considered medieval in style. It's been through several wars and changed hands between Germany and France more than once.

Its history is felt in the character of its buildings, the languages the residents speak (French, German and English) and the food they cook. I love a town with such a strong identity and a lot of character; Colmar packs a big punch!

3. The Symbol of Alsace is a Stork

You may walk around town and wonder why there are so many stork paintings and motifs decorating buildings or even shown on restaurant menus. It's because the stork is the symbol of the Alsace region! I love this painting I spotted on the side of a planter depicting a stork eating Choucroute Alsacienne, a traditional Alsace dish .

4. Peak and Off-Peak Tourist Times

If you're curious to know the best time to visit Colmar France, the answer is truly dependent on what you're looking to do there.

• January and early November are the quietest, or slow(er), months to visit Colmar.
• Summer is  high season because the Colmar Wine Festival is held annually over the summer in July/August
• But late November and most of December is also high season and a peak time to visit because a main attraction in Colmar is its famous Christmas Markets, which run from late November through the end of December.

I visited during early November and loved the lack of tourists and changing of the fall leaves around me. It was heaven. The temperature was also milder than it would have been had I visited in December, January or February.

5. It's the Christmas Capitol of the World

A local guide informed us that about FOUR MILLION  people visit throughout the holiday season to experience their Colmar Christmas markets. If you plan to visit then and want to stay within Colmar's old city, where the markets are (and not on the outskirts), make sure you book a hotel early!

6. House Facade Colors are Meaningful

Our guide on our Alsace Original Experiences tour informed us homeowners cannot paint the facade of their house the same color as their neighbor. This is because centuries ago house colors indicated the family trade or what the shop at the sidewalk level of the structure was. (For instance, a butcher or blacksmith.)

Today it makes for a very vibrant and colorful community.

7. Little Venice is Very Little Yet Incredibly Charming

Little Venice is really little. I kept thinking it was a large area of the city, like the Portobello neighborhood of London or the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. But it's quite small and the canal isn't very long! But it's still one of the best things to do in Colmar and you can spend at least an hour exploring it and meandering through the nearby streets and alleys .

I walked past a sign advertising a boat ride when I was walking around looking for what to do in Colmar. It only cost six euros and was led by a great guide who grew up in the area. I was able to get a lot of great photos from the canal perspective and gain insight into some city facts, its annual events, culture, Colmar France history, and learn more about present-day tourism from the guide.

The dock for boat rides is right next to the restaurant Le Caveau Saint-Pierre , on the canal. Reservations are not required or available – it's a very small and low-key operation and they run approximately every 15 to 20 minutes.

8. There's Free Wifi in Some Parts of Town

I noticed the Wifi station pictured below near one of the most “famous” bridges of Little Venice, close to Le Petite Venise restaurant where I had dinner . If you're like me and often rely on wifi when traveling abroad, as opposed to cell carrier plans, this is vital amongst the Colmar tips and tricks to know when visiting this Fairy Tale city. (Yet modern in this way, I suppose!)

9. Old Town Center Doesn't Have Many Convenience Stores

They don’t seem to have convenience stores or grocery stores in the center of the old town area of Colmar, with the exception of a shop named “Casino” on Grand Rue across from Hotel St. Martin. I was happy to grab a fresh-squeezed orange juice there every morning.

Its operating hours are:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 8:30am to 7:30pm
• Wednesday 10:00am to 7:30pm
• Closed Sundays

10. Be Aware of Restaurant Hours

The day I arrived I was really tired from traveling and wanted to have an early dinner, around 5:30pm, and head to bed. I quickly discovered nearly every restaurant I wanted to try is closed then. Restaurants open for dinner at 6:30 or 7:00pm, depending on the location.

Breakfast locations generally open at 9:00am or later though I found two patisseries open at 7:30am to grab a croissant from before my 8:30am tour. This is one of the vital tips and tricks to know visiting Colmar, France when deciding whether or not to dine at your hotel for breakfast.

I thoroughly enjoyed my meal at Le Fer Rouge , pictured below, trying traditional dishes from the Alsace region.

11. German Influence Abounds

Colmar feels very German…yet still French. I think it’s why I liked it so much! Because the city’s changed hands so often throughout the years – once belonging to Germany, then to France, and back and forth – it’s a very German and French town.

People speak French, German and English. Residents learn French from infancy, then German in school and then English. I’ve been told the French dialect of the Alsace region has a thick accent that’s sometimes hard to understand for French-speaking people from other regions.

A lot of the food of the region is also very German, as evidenced in the picture below with sauerkraut as the base underneath the fish.

12. It Borders Two Countries 

Colmar is just west of Germany (as mentioned above) and north of Switzerland. It's such a cool novelty this American was able to cross the border of all three countries within one eight-hour day. (You can't do that in the states!)

For a time-saving method, in this post on tips and tricks to know visiting Colmar France, consider booking the International Tour with Alsace Original Experiences ; a tour guide will drive you across the borders to visit several towns within one day, including Basel, Switzerland, and Fribourg en Brisgau, Germany.

You'll also have the chance to explore Neuf-Brisach in France with its unique fortifications and Egusheim, the village that inspired the scenery for Disney's Beauty and the Beast.

Please note: we thank Alsace Original Experiences for generously hosting us. We also may make a small commission from affiliate links in this post but all opinions are ours and we bring you genuine content with real facts, photos, thoughts and recommendations. Always.

Visiting France? Also check out:

• Food You Need to Try in the Alsace Region of France
• The Coziest Boutique Accommodation in Le Marais Paris
• Helpful Money and Time Saving Paris Travel Tips

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Around Colmar: 20 Must-See Places to Explore

Last Updated:  26 November 2022

Colmar is a must-see destination in Alsace. Situated between Strasbourg and Mulhouse, the Alsace wine capital is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. With wine villages, medieval castles, great wines, and hearty gastronomy, the area around Colmar is worth a visit. Discover in this article 20 must-see places around Colmar.

• 🇫🇷 Read this article in French / Lisez cet article en français
• 🇩🇪 Read this article in German / Lesen Sie diesen Artikel auf Deutsch

20 most beautiful places to discover around Colmar

Writing this article is easy: I drew a circle with a 15 km radius around Colmar. The only problem is the number of sites to reference, as you have to choose among the hundreds of existing sights within a 15 km radius of the town. To avoid giving you an encyclopaedia (!), I have decided to limit these sites to 20.

To take the time to discover all these 20 sites around Colmar, you will need several days, if not a good week. My favourite season is the beginning of autumn, when the grape harvest ends, and the vineyards are dressed in gold and orange. In all seasons, the spectacle of the hillsides of the Alsace vineyard bordering the Rhine plain is one of the most beautiful in France.

The microclimate due to the foehn effect explains the beauty of the landscapes 15 km around Colmar. Indeed, the precipitations coming from the west, blocked by the Vosges mountains , spare the Colmar region. It is therefore not surprising to learn that this pretty corner of Alsace is one of the driest places… in France!

Let’s start the exploration of the region around Colmar by the town itself!

Do we still need to introduce you to Colmar?

Colmar is a wonder for those who appreciate half-timbered houses , museums and Alsatian gastronomy. My favourite city areas include the Rue des Marchands, the Tanners’ district and the Petite-Venise.

This medium-sized town has one of France’s most beautiful Fine Arts museums: the Unterlinden Museum ! Organised around a medieval cloister, the museum exhibits magnificent collections, the treasure of which is the famous Issenheim altarpiece.

The south of Colmar takes you to a region that is not the most touristy (apart from Eguisheim). You will discover some charming and less frequented places.

About 15 km by road is the small town of Rouffach . Ideally located on the edge of the sub-Vosgian hills covered with the Grand-Cru Vorbourg vineyards, Rouffach reveals itself along pretty streets lined with beautiful bourgeois residences.

This historical and architectural heritage finds its apogee in the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church. This jewel of Romanesque and Gothic art was built in yellow sandstone in the 13th century. A must-see during a visit: the circuit of the ramparts.

Gueberschwihr

How many times have I passed this village in transit on the D83 between the A36 and Colmar… without ever stopping! Then one day, I left the road to visit Gueberschwihr. And what a nice surprise. Far from the tourist agitation of the heart of the Alsatian vineyard, Gueberschwihr is one of these typical Alsatian villages that has managed to keep its tranquillity.

Its Romanesque church Saint-Pantaléon is quickly spotted in the centre of the village with its magnificent 12th-century bell tower. The architectural heritage of the village is somewhat surprising. 78 monuments or houses are listed in the inventory of cultural heritage.

Take time along the streets to admire the houses built in the 16th and 17th centuries.

For wine lovers, you should know that the vineyard of Gueberschwihr includes the Alsace Grand Cru Goldert.

Eguisheim is a small village a few kilometres from Colmar that accumulates superlatives. As a major tourist destination in Alsace, a visit to Eguisheim is a must! Think about it:

• In 2003, Eguisheim was awarded the exclusive label of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
• In 2006, the village won the gold medal of the Entente Florale . This is a prestigious European competition for towns and villages in bloom.
• Then, in 2013, Eguisheim became the favourite village of the French viewers of the France 2 TV show, succeeding Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.

Eguisheim is a “round” village. That is to say that its streets form a concentric plan centred on the castle, the chapel and the Saint-Léon fountain. Although the village is not large, it has many winegrowers’ houses and beautiful half-timbered houses from the Renaissance. I recommend you follow the ramparts walk (along the Rue des Remparts Nord and Rue des Remparts Sud).

If you have time, climb the three castles of Eguisheim, located next to each other at the top of a sub-Vosgian hill. They are called Dagsbourg, Wahlenbourg and Weckmund.

On your way there, you will cross the village of Husseren , the highest point of the Alsace Wine Route . You will discover the Eguisheim vineyard. The hills are not steep and well exposed to the sun. The vineyard produces the Alsace Grands Crus Eichberg and Pfersigberg.

More about Eguisheim…

The Hohlandsbourg castle

Along with the Haut-Kœnigsbourg, the Hohlandsbourg Castle is one of the most important castles around Colmar. It is also a major tourist destination within 15 km of the town. This historical and cultural site was restored in the 1990s by the Conseil Général du Haut-Rhin.

The castle is open from Easter to November 11th. You will discover an exceptional panorama of the Colmar region. And you will understand the strategic importance of the fortress, which, in the Middle Ages, was used to watch over Colmar. This did not irritate the Colmar burghers who revolted in the 13th century. They went up to the Hohlandsbourg and set it on fire. The castle then came under the control of the Habsburgs. In 1637, in the middle of the Thirty Years’ War, the fortress was destroyed by the French, who feared that the Austrians would occupy it.

To the west of Colmar, the Munster valley opens up and cuts its way through the natural wall of the Vosges. Turckheim and Niedermorschwihr are the most visited places. Both are located at the foot of the mountain on which the Trois-Epis resort extends.

Like me, you will be seduced by the small pleasant town of Turckheim. It is the archetype of the Alsatian village. Fortified gates, vestiges of medieval ramparts, richly ornate half-timbered houses decked with flowers, storks’ nests on the chimneys, Renaissance fountains, and Gothic churches with glazed tiles, all dominated by the vineyards.

Turckheim was part of the Decapolis, a powerful alliance of prosperous Alsatian cities in the Middle Ages. This privilege ended with the treaty of Nijmegen in 1679. For the record, Turckheim (like other towns of the Decapolis) refused to swear allegiance to the King of France when France annexed the town in 1648.

Some traditions have been maintained in Turckheim, such as that of the night watchman who, every summer night, makes his rounds, dressed in his houppelande and carrying a halberd and a lamp. The night watchman of Turckheim refers to an old tradition from the 13th century. His role was to watch over the number one danger of medieval towns and villages: fires.

More about Turckheim…

Niedermorschwihr

From Turckheim, the Alsace Wine Route winds halfway up the vine-covered hillsides to Niedermorschwihr . This small village, located away from the main roads, is one of the most charming on the tourist route.

Beautiful half-timbered houses are full of colour and flowers. Refreshing fountains. A small picturesque town hall. And a church with a unique feature in France (and not very frequent in France) is a twisted bell tower. Dating from the 13th century, the octagonal spire is twisted from right to left by 45°. The spire is covered with glazed tiles.

Before leaving the village, let’s have a little guess. Do you know what the inhabitants of Niedermorschwihr are called? The Niedermorschwihrois? The Niedermorschwihriens? The Niedermorschwihrites? You are not there at all! They are the Morvilois or the Morvilais (and you can choose the name!) The reason is quite simple. In 1148, the village was known as Morswilre.

More about Niedermorschwihr…

Ammerschwihr

The north (or more precisely the northwest) of Colmar is the most touristic region of Alsace, with its multitude of wine villages, each more beautiful than the other. There are three “pearls” of the Alsace Wine Route: Kaysersberg, Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé.

Ammerschwihr , like other neighbouring villages, was utterly devastated during the terrible fighting of the Colmar Pocket in the winter of 1944-45. However, today it is hard to believe that it was only a field of ruins at the Liberation. After the reconstruction, Ammerschwihr regained its charm and tranquillity. To discover: the Saint-Martin church and its slender bell tower, the Obertor (High Gate, from 1608), the Tour des Bourgeois (1535) and the Tour des Fripons (1535).

A poignant reminder of the Allied bombings that destroyed 85% of the village, the ruins of the Town Hall. Edified in 1552, it was one of the region’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture.

And then, there is its famous vineyard. The Kaefferkopf is the name of a hill producing high-quality grapes.

Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg means “ the Emperor’s Mountain “. A bit pompous as a name? Not at all, because if you’ve never heard of Kaysersberg, it’s high time you discovered this tourist mecca in Alsace. Shall I take you into my confidence? Kaysersberg is one of my favourite places in France. My two weeks in 2012 (during an intensive French course we organised from Sydney) were unforgettable. Of my many visits to Kaysersberg (I’m a regular!), I have published several articles of discovery on this blog.

To sum up, what you should see in Kaysersberg: the Grand’rue (rue du Général de Gaulle), the medieval fortified bridge, unique in Alsace, the Sainte-Croix church, the castle perched above the roofs…

And when it comes to gastronomy, the birthplace of Doctor Schweitzer is not to be outdone. Enjoy exceptional cuisine at Le Chambard or Le Moréote.

Frankly, I wasn’t surprised to find it in 1st place in the list of the show Le Village Préféré des Français in 2017!

More about Kaysersberg…

In the past (before January 1st 2016), Kientzheim was an independent commune. Since then, it has become part of a new commune, Kaysersberg-Vignoble , with Kaysersberg and the neighbouring village of Sigolsheim. But rest assured, nothing has changed. You will still discover this fortified village and its Alsace wine museum.

Please read this dedicated article to learn more about Kientzheim (not to be confused with Kintzheim in the Bas-Rhin!).

The national Necropolis of Sigolsheim

Less than 15 kilometres north of Colmar is a small hillock, the last outcrop of the Vosges sub-hills. Covered by the vines of the Alsace Grand Cru Mambourg, it shelters a national Necropolis on its summit. This vast war cemetery bears witness to the number of men who perished during the fighting in the Colmar pocket in the winter of 1944-45. Among the 1,589 graves of soldiers who “Died for France”, there are 792 graves of North African soldiers and 15 graves of Jewish soldiers.

The view over the whole Colmar region is fantastic. From the Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle to the Hohlandsbourg castle, passing by the vineyards of Riquewihr, the three castles of Ribeauvillé, Kientzheim, Kaysersberg, Ammerschwihr, the Trois-Épis, the Alsace plain, the Black Forest and the Jura. In perfect weather, the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps are visible to the south.

It was only recently that I walked through the streets of Beblenheim. Tourists on their way to Riquewihr, Kaysersberg or Ribeauvillé won’t think of stopping in Beblenheim Yet, this village has some very photogenic streets.

From 1298, the village was part of the seigneury of Riquewihr, which belonged to the dukes of Wurtemberg. This explains why Beblenheim (and Riquewihr) were among the last Alsatian towns to become French. It was not until the Revolution that France took possession of Beblenheim.

The village is small, and you won’t spend more than an hour there. Come on, you will have enough time to discover Riquewihr.

All of the places around Colmar, Riquewihr is a must-see village! Like Kaysersberg and Eguisheim, this historic town has won many awards:

• In 2003, Riquewihr entered the exclusive list of the association Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.
• In 2012, Riquewihr was ranked 6th on the list of the “Village Préféré des Français” by the viewers of the France 2 TV show.
• Then, in 2016, Riquewihr was elected with Saint-Cirq-Lapopie as the most beautiful village in France by the association of Japanese travel agencies.

Discovering Riquewihr means admiring the beautiful winegrowers’ houses, the Dolder (a fortified gateway decorated with half-timbering) and the vineyard offering magnificent views over the village’s roofs.

Read more about Riquewihr…

You can see it from the road that leads from Colmar to Ribeauvillé as vineyards surround the perched village of Zellenberg. It is a very picturesque site, a stone’s throw from Riquewihr. As the village is small, you won’t spend more than an hour there – unless you enjoy walking around Zellenberg through the vineyards like me.

You will be able to appreciate better the site: the village, the corner towers of the old rampart and the bell tower of the Saint-Ulrich church… and the soaring flight of white storks.

The village of Hunawihr is definitely one of the prettiest sites on the Alsace Wine Route. Or one of the most famous. Nestled in a valley between Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, Hunawihr owes its fame to its church. And this one is not located in the centre of the village. The church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur stands on a small spur dominating the village. The particularity of the sanctuary is that ramparts surround it. This is what makes it so charming.

The fortified church is bordered by a cemetery, from where one can enjoy a magnificent panorama over the Alsace plain.

Hunawihr has received the label of the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Learn more about Hunawihr…

Ribeauvillé

This is the town of the Ribeaupierre family! This influential dynasty in Alsace left its mark on Ribeauvillé for centuries from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. The backbone of Ribeauvillé is its Grand’rue. As you walk along it, you will discover the main half-timbered bourgeois houses, the squares adorned with Renaissance fountains, and the Tour des Bouchers.

Ribeauvillé is dominated by the ruins of three castles: the Saint-Ulrich, the Girsberg and the Haut-Ribeaupierre. The climb to the fortresses can be steep and sporty… But you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the roofs of the town, the vineyards, the Vosges and the Alsace plain, which extends as far as the Black Forest.

Read more about Ribeauvillé…

For a nice walk, choose the one that goes around the ramparts in Bergheim. On the road to Saint-Hippolyte, Bergheim is a unique village in Alsace. Because you see, it has kept its ramparts!

The walk will take you through houses, well-tended gardens and vineyards from the car park near the Obertor (the high gate). The historical centre of the village contains beautiful half-timbered houses and is beautifully decorated with flowers.

Bergheim’s crowning glory came in 2022 when it won the coveted title of “Village Préféré des Français” in the France 3 TV show presented by Stéphane Bern.

It’s time to leave the Alsatian vineyards and head towards the plain. A few more steps and we will have completed our ranking of the 20 sites to discover within 15 km of Colmar.

Learn more about Bergheim…

Guémar is a small village on the road from Colmar to Sélestat that deserves a visit. Take the time to explore the village: from the Obertor (the High Gate, one of the most beautiful fortified gates in Alsace dating from 1400) to the walks along the Fecht river, you will appreciate the calm of the place.

Illhaeusern and the Grand Ried

Have you got a bit of time left? Head to the village of Illhaeusern.

Illhaeusern is an old fishing village crossed by the river Ill. In fact, the name of the village means “Houses along the Ill” in German.

Unfortunately, not much remains of the old village. Illhaeusern was indeed wholly destroyed during the fighting in the Colmar pocket in the winter of 1944-45. However, the site remains bucolic if you are lucky enough to go for a boat ride. Good to know if you like good food: Illhaeusern is one of the high places of French gastronomy today.

From Illhaeusern to Neuf-Brisach, you will cross an area called the Grand Ried . Stretching between the river Ill and the Rhine from Colmar to Strasbourg, the Grand Ried is a region of flooded meadows and alluvial forests.

Neuf-Brisach

East of Colmar, we are close to the Rhine , on the border with Germany. Neuf-Brisach, for example, is a jewel of 17th-century military architecture, closer to the Black Forest than to the Vosges.

You would have to fly over Neuf-Brisach to appreciate the work of a certain Vauban. Opposite Breisach-am-Rhein (the former Vieux-Brisach), now in Germany, Neuf-Brisach is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the significant Vauban sites.

The stronghold is considered the culmination of Vauban’s work in terms of military architecture. Judge for yourself: fortifications in the shape of a 16-pointed star, ditches, a security wall, eight bastioned towers, half-moons and reduced half-moons…

Christmas markets around Colmar

This article would not be complete without mentioning the Alsatian Christmas markets. Because within a 15 km radius of Colmar, there are some of the most beautiful Christmas markets.

Some are permanent (i.e. they are open every day of Advent), and others are punctual (they only open on weekends or on certain days in December).

Some of my favourite Christmas markets are:

Colmar Christmas market

One of the most visited in Alsace. It is spread over several sites throughout Old Colmar.

Discover the Colmar Christmas market on the blog…

Eguisheim Christmas Market

Perhaps the smallest on the list, but oh so picturesque. The Christmas lights and decorations contribute to the enhancement of the heritage.

Discover the Eguisheim Christmas market on the blog…

Christmas market in Kaysersberg

One of the oldest in Alsace. Its first edition dates back to 1986, at a time when the Strasbourg market was one of the only ones in France. This Christmas market is resolutely traditional and authentic in the products it offers.

Discover the Kaysersberg Christmas market on the blog…

Riquewihr Christmas Market

A fairytale setting for this popular Christmas market. During the Advent weekends, the Christmas market spreads over the main street.

Discover the Riquewihr Christmas market on the blog…

More info for your Alsace trip

There is so much to see around Colmar that you may need a whole full week to explore only part of the region!

Here is some helpful info to help you prepare for your stay in Alsace.

Where to sleep in Colmar?

Here are some ideas for accommodation to plan your stay in the Capital of Alsace Wines.

Click here to access the list of hotels, bed and breakfasts, gites, campsites and other accommodations. Or browse the map below to find your accommodation.

Things to do in Colmar and the surroundings

A selection of activities and tours in the Alsace region:

On the blog and other websites

• Find out more about the Alsace Wine Route on the blog
• Check out the website of the Tourist Board of Colmar

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About the author

Pierre is a French/Australian who is passionate about France and its culture. He grew up in France and Germany and has also lived in Australia and England. He has a background teaching French, Economics and Current Affairs, and holds a Master of Translating and Interpreting English-French with the degree of Master of International Relations, and a degree of Economics and Management. Pierre is the author of Discovery Courses and books about France.

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Thank you very much. Your articles are so very interesting and rewarding. We are going to spend one night in Strasbourg but it is after Christmas I’m afraid. We are also planning a week in the region in first week of June. Keep the articles coming!! Suggestions for hotels in Strasbourg?

You’re very welcome, thank you for your comment! Even though the Christmas market of Strasbourg will be over, you’ll still be able to explore the city with the Christmas lights (the Christmas tree on Place Kleber will still be illuminated – check out my discovery guide here ) Regarding hotel recommendations in Strasbourg, it all depends on your budget and preferences (whether you want a boutique/modern/chain hotel). Here is a short list of my favourite hotels (with affiliate links). Hope this helps! Pierre

Hotel Le Régent ***** (la Petite-France) Novotel Strasbourg Centre Halles **** Hotel Rohan Centre cathédrale **** Hotel Léonor ****

This article is a "keeper"! My daughter and I spent four nights in an apartment on the main street of Riquewihr in October a few years ago. It was magical, especially when the day tourists left and we felt we had the village to ourselves. Fall is a perfect time to explore the charming villages and taste the wonderful wines of Alsace!

Thank you as usual for all the useful information in this article!

Thank you Ellen… can’t wait to see your photos 😉

Thank you, Pierre, for this helpful article. My led tour groups have been in Colmar, Strasbourg, Mulhouse in several times but just make around its old town and enjoyable sparkle Christmast markets. I hope I will take my visitors to Alsac welknown wine tasting in the next few months. Thank you again and enjoy your day. Keep the articles coming!

You’re most welcome! 🙂

Pierre, what a delightful way to wake up on a Sunday morning! As usual, your photos are beautiful and they capture the soul and spirit of these beautiful villages and towns. Your article proves that we could spend weeks in Alsace and still not see everything that this beautiful region offers. Merci!

Avec grand plaisir, merci beaucoup Ellen ! 🙂

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24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

Ostrich Trails

Because it is a walking bird and walking is what we do.

Colmar Walking Tour

Home » Europe » France » Colmar Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Jul. 1st, 2023 · Updated Apr. 3rd, 2024

When you buy through links highlighted with an asterisk (*) on this site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Colmar is a beautiful town in Alsace with many sights and quaint neighbourhoods, best explored on a walking tour.

Page Contents:

This walking tour starts from the Collégiale St-Martin, or St Martin’s Church, in the centre of Colmar. There are several car parks near the center, or you can take the train. On the train Colmar is only 2hr20 from Paris, 30 minutes from Strasbourg, 45 minutes from Basel and 2 hours from Zurich. The train station is just 15 minutes walk away from the centre of Colmar.

Colmar Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Colmar Walking Tour

• Colmar gets busy in the summer holidays and in December when the Christmas market occupies the main square.
• Colmar is on the Alsatian Wine Route and also has delicious Alsatian cuisine (think a blend of French and German)
• Make dinner reservations in advance, especially in the summer season and sunny weekends.
• Alsatian cuisine includes Choucroute (sauerkraut), Tarte Flambée (flammkuchen, similar to pizza) and Baeckeoffe (a meat casserole). There are of course also delicious local wines, such as Riesling, Muscat and Pinot Gris.

For more walking tours and hikes, see our France Hiking Page .

Top Sights in Colmar

On this self-guided walking tour you’ll see the main sights and attractions of Colmar. Up to one day is the perfect amount of time to spend in Colmar. If you’re just walking around, half a day is enough, while if you want to visit the museums then allow a full day. It also makes a fine base for exploring the surrounding cute towns on the Alsace Wine Route.

• Collégiale St-Martin
• Old Town & Rue des Marchands
• Petite Venise
• Covered Market
• Tanner’s District
• Église des Dominicains
• Musée d’Unterlinden

On this walking tour of Colmar you’ll also pass other sights such as the Musée Bartholdi, Maison des Têtes and the Place de l’Ancienne Douane (Old Custom’s House).

Colmar Walking Tour Route

This walking tour starts from Collégiale St-Martin, the main church in the center of Colmar.

1. Collégiale St-Martin

Key Information: Open Tue-Fri 8:15am-5:45pm, Sat 10am-5:45pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Closed to visitors during services.

The Collégiale St-Martin (or Saint-Martin Collegiate Church) is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Colmar. The church dates back to the 13th century and features Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It was a cathedral at one point, but only for 10 years during the French Revolution. Don’t miss the large Baroque organ and the outer walls, constructed from locally quarried pink limestone.

Directions: Leave the church square at the southeast corner, down a cute narrow street.

At the corner on your right you’ll see the Maison Pfister . This is one of the very old, wonderfully restored houses in Colmar. It has a distinctive octagonal tower, timber facade, corner turret and elaborate carvings and frescoes, all dating back to the middle ages. The house is named after the family that owned it in the 16th century, a wealthy Pfister family – Pfister comes from the Latin word for baker. Today, the ground floor is occupied by VINUM, a rather exclusive wine shop.

Opposite Pfister House is the Maison Schongauer, or Swan House. It was home to the famous artist and engraver Martin Schongauer from 1477-1490.

Directions: At the corner, head right along Rue des Marchands and the heart of Colmar Old Town.

2. Old Town & Rue des Marchands

Rue des Marchands in the old town is a charming street lined with half-timbered houses and boutique shops. It’s one of the most picturesque in Colmar, so it’s worth taking your time to explore.

Directions: Take the first left to see the grand Law Court building. Then cross the square in front and head right to walk towards Little Venice, or La Petite Venise. Look out for Maison des Chevaliers on your right, which looks a bit like a Venetian palace.

3. Petite Venise

Petite Venise is a neighborhood centered around a canal (the Lauch Canal) and full of cute colourful houses. It’s not that reminiscent of Venice, but that’s where it gets its name from anyway. It can be a great place to relax and soak in the beauty of Colmar. However, it can get busy so take advantage of an early start for some peace and quiet here.

The first viewpoint of Petite Venise is from the first bridge you’ll see on your left. This is the bridge on Rue Turenne and is one of the best viewpoints of Little Venice. There are some very cute restaurants here, some half floating over the water. After admiring this view, head back to continue walking down the road on the same side of the river. Take the first left and this will lead you to another bridge with another viewpoint of Petite Venise.

Directions: Just across the bridge, take the steps down to your left. This walkway leads you back to the first bridge along a cute small lane.

Quai de la Poissonnerie

Renting a rowboa t for thirty minutes (€6) is a great way to see the cute houses of Little Venise and the Fishmongers’ Quarter (Quai de la Poissonnerie) from a different perspective. You can buy tickets from La Krutenau restaurant – you’ll see the wooden boats just outside.

Continue walking close to the river along Rue de la Poissonnerie. You’ll now be on the Quai de la Poissonnerie, the old Fishmongers’ Quarter where fishermen used to live and work. It’s an extremely photogenic street, so a must-see on a walking tour of Colmar.

Directions: At the next bridge, turn left to reach the Marché Couvert, or Covered Market.

Explore Further:

• Best Villages in Alsace
• Best Places to Stay in Alsace
• Best Walking Routes in Alsace
• Alsace Wine Route
• Alsace Travel Guide

4. Marché Couvert de Colmar

Key Information: Open from 8am Tue-Sat, from 10am on Sundays, and closed on Mondays.

Colmar’s Covered Market is a great place to explore and taste the local produce. These include regional cheeses, most of which are smelly, such as Munster, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. You’ll also find food stalls with options to either eat just outside the stall or take away. Additionally, a couple of stalls sell non-food items and tourist trinkets.

One highly recommended cafe is La Terrasse du Marché, inside the market but with tables on a terrace overlooking the canal and old buildings. A great place to stop for a break on this walking tour of Colmar.

Directions: Continue walking around the market, straight across the road and take the first left into the next district of Colmar.

5. Quartier des Tanneurs

The Quartier des Tanneurs is, as the name suggests, the old tanners’ quarter. This area is filled with beautiful half-timbered houses (from the 17th-18th centuries) and narrow streets, and it’s a great place to explore. The central square here, the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, holds the famous Christmas Market, or Marché de Noël, in December time.

Walk around a few of the lovely, quiet backstreets before heading across the bridge to the Old Customs House . This colourful building is also called the Ancienne Douane, or Koifus. It’s a rather striking piece of architecture dating back to the 1400s. Not only beautiful, this house used to play a vital role in the town’s economy. All goods entering the town had to be brought here for local taxes to be paid before they could be sold onwards.

Directions: Walk through the customs building and head right to walk through more of Colmar. You’ll see the Old Hospital on your right and then pass St Matthew’s Church . After this, take the first left along one of the major shopping streets of town. Take the second left, then bend right to reach the square in front of the Dominican Church.

6. Église des Dominicains

Key Information: Open 10 am – 1 pm and 3 – 6 pm, closed Mondays and Wednesdays. Entrance costs €2/1/free per adult/child/under 12.

The Place des Dominicains just outside the church is a picturesque square with beautiful architecture. The fountain in the centre tells the story of a local legend. The Église des Dominicains itself dates mainly from the 14th century. There are beautiful stained glass windows, but the real highlight is the Madonna of the Rose Bush, painted by local master craftsman Martin Schongauer.

Directions: Head right around the church and follow the waterways to the Musée d’Unterlinden, just after the large garden.

7. Musée d’Unterlinden

Key Information: Open every day except Tuesday, 9am-6pm. Tickets cost €13/8 plus €2 for an audioguide (recommended).

The Musée d’Unterlinden ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is housed in a former convent dating back to the 13th century. It’s been modernized and wonderfully combines both old and new architectural elements, making it one of the top cultural attractions in Colmar. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists such as Picasso and Monet, as well as a range of medieval and Renaissance art. Be sure to check out the famous Isenheim Altarpiece while you’re there. And don’t miss the archaeological section, which covers excavations from around Alsace.

Directions: The final stretch of the Colmar Walking Tour continues down Rue des Têtes, to the right after the garden. You’ll find the Maison des Têtes on your left as you walk along the street.

Maison des Têtes

The Maison des Têtes got its name from the over 100 heads that adorn its front. It dates from the 17th century, built by a wealthy merchant in a Renaissance style. From 1902 the house contained the local wine exchange, while today you’ll find a Michelin-star restaurant and a fancy hotel * in the building.

Directions: At the end of the street turn left, head right across the square, and continue along Rue des Marchands.

Musée Bartholdi

Key Information: Open 10am-noon and 2pm-6pm. Closed Mondays and all of January. Tickets cost €5/free for adults/children.

The Musée Bartholdi ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is an excellent small museum in the historical city centre. It displays work by Auguste Bartholdi, a sculptor born in Colmar in 1886, most famous for the Statue of Liberty. The museum displays several sculptures, along with a few of Bartholdi’s private belongings, all in the house where he once lived.

Directions: Take the next road to the left and you be back at St Martin’s Church and the end of the Colmar Walking Tour.

Extra Sight: Toy Museum

Key Information: Open Jan-Nov 10am-5pm, closed Tuesdays. July, August & December open every day 10am-6pm. Tickets cost €6.10/4.70 for adults/children.

If you’re interested in toys, and especially if you have younger children, then the Toy Museum ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *), or ‘Musée du Jouet’ is well worth a visit. It’s housed in a former cinema and not too far from the town center. On display are collections of toys from the 19th century to the present. There are teddy bears, dolls, toy trains, video games, and much more. A particular highlight is the train network which occupies the entire second floor.

Best Places to Stay in Colmar

Colmar has many places to stay, from budget hostels to fancy hotels and everything in between. Check out the best hotels in Colmar below:

• Ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare *: One of the best cheaper hotels in town. Clean rooms with a good location.
• Hôtel Turenne *: A modern boutique hotel close to La Petite Venise with great service and private (paid) parking.
• Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes *: A five-star luxury hotel for those wishing to push the boat out. There’s private parking, a lovely shaded patio out back and a Michelin-star restaurant on-site.
• Belle chambre cosy *: Rooms not far from the town centre with a shared lounge and fully equipped kitchen, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. A great choice for those on a modest budget.
• Odalys City Colmar La Rose d’Argent *: Apartments in a hotel, all with small fully equipped kitchens and free WiFi.
• Apartments Center Colmar *: Lovely, spacious apartments with a great location. These apartments all include WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen and free parking. Perfect for a comfortable stay in Colmar.

Guidebooks & Maps for Exploring Alsace

Related Posts

Strasbourg Walking Tour

Obernai Walking Tour

Ribeauvillé Walking Tour

Barr Walking Tour

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