colmar canal tour

Boat trip in Colmar – Notice on the boat in the Little Venice

Boating in Colmar in Alsace , that seems a bit far-fetched, doesn't it? In fact, you can take a boat ride in Colmar on the Lauch, the name of the river that crosses the city: a good way to visit Colmar differently, along the water! A tourist activity but I recommend it.

Stroll with Sweet Narcisse from the Saint-Pierre Bridge

On the river in a flat-bottomed boat, boat tour in little venice and the market gardeners, how long does the boat tour take.

I chose to test the boat ride in Colmar with Sweet Narcisse, which I recommend. The walk takes place on the Lauch , the name of the river that crosses Colmar, starting from the Pont Saint-Pierre in Little Venice.

Here I am sitting in a flat-bottomed boat , like a tourist passing through Colmar. It is necessary to know how to be a tourist in its own region, it is very pleasant! These specially shaped boats were originally used by market gardeners to transport their vegetables to market.

The boat trip takes us through different parts of Colmar. The famous Little Venice , of course, but also the residential district of Les Maraîchers , where vegetables used to come from, before returning to the city center to Les Halles, which still houses a covered market where I also recommend you to go.

The boat glides slowly on the water, letting us admire the landscape : half-timbered houses and green nature are there. The atmosphere is peaceful, it is very pleasant. Throughout the boat ride , the boatman gives us explanations on the history of Colmar. However, he takes a break when we pass through the residential area, so as not to disturb the peace of the neighborhood.

Also on the blog

• Visiting Colmar – My 12 things to do guide
• Best hotels in the center of Colmar
• Visit to the Musée Unterlinden in Colmar

Don’t expect a long walk, there aren’t enough canals in Colmar for that. After 30 minutes , we are back at the pier. It’s quick but I really enjoyed the walk, which allows to see the city of Colmar from a different angle.

• Discover the little Venice from another point of view. I think it’s even more beautiful from the water!
• No noise, the boat glides peacefully on the water

I liked less

• It’s quite short because you can’t go very far on the Lauch, but that’s how it is!

My guide to Colmar

Plan an unforgettable stay in Colmar and the surrounding area without wasting any time, thanks to my guide ! You’ll find the most beautiful places to visit, activities not to be missed and the best addresses!

Practical information

Rates and schedules

Boat trips are possible every day from April to September and on weekends from March to October (depending on weather conditions). Find all the schedules and rates here .

During the season and in good weather, the places are quickly taken. Remember to make a reservation by contacting Sweet Narcisse via the website or by phone.

Guided tours

The boat ride lasts 30 minutes. The tour is guided in French, English or German by the boatman.

The departure of the boats is on rue de la Herse , at the foot of the Pont Saint-Pierre .

Not to be confused with the other boats in Colmar, which are at the foot of the restaurant La Krutenau. I haven’t tried the latter, but I found the Sweet Narcisse team very friendly, so I recommend them!

  Boat Rides

Discover colmar by boat, 25 minute guided trip.

To avoid queue : BOOKING ADVISED

Reservations can be made online until the day before departure. Payment on site.

“Little Venice” is a picturesque area in the heart of the old city through which flows a quiet river called the Lauch.

Come and discover  its lovely, authentic landscape on a flat-bottomed boat. You will be charmed by this original view of Colmar.

Open every days except particular dates: 🗓️ JANUARY 2024 🕚Reduced opening hours, open: WE: morning & afternoon 1st jan : opens at 13:30 PM from 22 to 31 , Mo - Fri: opens morning & afternoon 🗓️ FEBRUARY 2024 🕚Reduced opening hours, open: WE: morning & afternoon from 1st to 09, Mo - Fri: afternoon from 10 to 29 : morning & afternoon 🗓️ MARCH 2024 Open every days 🗓️ APRIL 2024 Open every days except: Sa 27 & Di 28 afternoon 🗓️ MAY 2024 Open every days except: Sa 18 & Di 19 afternoon 🗓️ JUNE 2024 Open every days except: Sa 15 & Di 16 afternoon 🗓️ JULY 2024 Open every days except: Sa 13 & Di 14 afternoon 🗓️ AUGUST 2024 Open every days except: Sa 10 & So 11 & Fri 30 afternoon Sa 31 🗓️ SEPTEMBER 2024 Open every days except: Di 01 🗓️ OCTOBER 2023 Open every days 🗓️ NOVEMBER 2023 🕚Reduced opening hours Open every days 🎅 🎄 🤶 DECEMBER 2024 CHRISTMAS MARKET 2024 Open every days 24 dec (last departure 16h30) 25 dec : closed 31 dec (last departure 16h30) 🎄 🎁 🎄 🎁

09:45-12:00 / 13:30-18:15 Departure every 15 min Jan, Feb, Nov : reduced opening time, contact us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BOOKING ADVISED ▶ Booking form 📞 +33(0)389410194 [email protected] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ == COVID-19 == ============================== SAFETY MASK MANDATORY -->

Total places available: 48 people every 25 minutes.

Several languages available.

For today's reservations, please contact us by phone. The reservation using our form is not open. Payment is made on site.

OPEN ONLY IN THE MORNING

OPEN ONLY IN THE AFTERNOON

Date of the walk Departure time :

—Veuillez choisir une option— 9:50 10:00 10:15 10:30 10:45 11:00 11:15 11:30 11:45 —Veuillez choisir une option— 13:30 13:45 14:00 14:15 14:30 14:45 15:00 15:15 15:30 15:45 16:00 16:15 16:30 16:45 17:00 17:15 17:30 17:45 18:00 18:15 18:20 —Veuillez choisir une option— 9:45 10:00 10:15 10:30 10:45 11:00 11:15 11:30 11:45 12:00 13:30 13:45 14:00 14:15 14:30 14:45 15:00 15:15 15:30 15:45 16:00 16:15 16:30 16:45 17:00 17:15 17:30 17:45 18:00 18:15 18:20

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• 25 minutes.
• Guided tour

Tickets sold on boats. Individual: 8 € per person. Free for children under 4. 4 € for children up to 10. Groups: contact us.

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Détour en France Spécial Colmar

• 18 February 2014
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One day in colmar: an itinerary for a fairytale town.

Do you fancy visiting one of the most beautiful towns in Europe? With just one day in Colmar, you can take a boat ride on its canals, stroll its scenic streets and sample delicious Alsace cuisine.

It’s one of my favourite solo destinations in France .

Hit the ground running with my tried and tested itinerary 1-day Colmar itinerary. You’ll also find recommendations for where to stay and eat in Colmar plus other essential tips, including how to get there and how to get around.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO IN COLMAR

• Stroll around La Petite Venise
• Explore the Tanners’ Quarter
• Take a canal cruise
• Visit the Dominican Church
• Feast on Alsace food and wine

GETTING THERE: By train. The station is a 15-minute walk from the historic centre.

GETTING AROUND: On foot

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT COLMAR: Spring & Autumn. December is also popular for the Christmas market.

IN THIS ARTICLE

What is So Special About Colmar?

Colmar looks like it has been lifted straight out of a book of fairy tales. Some believe that it was the inspiration for Belle’s village in Disney’s  Beauty and the Beast .

Picture cobbled streets and pastel-hued, half-timbered houses lining small canals. Add a smattering of lively cafes, historic churches and museums and you’ll have the measure of the place.

The city’s architecture is a legacy of the Alsace region see-sawing between Germany and France over 200 years. These fluctuations in ownership are also reflected in the region’s cuisine.

Blending German and French culinary influences, Colmar is  foodie heaven . And oenophiles will not be short-changed either. Known as the Capital of Alsatian Wine, Colmar is firmly on the Alsatian Wine Route .

What to Do in Colmar: 1-Day Itinerary

As the historic hub of Colmar is spread over a small area and the list of must-do sights modest, it is easy to explore in one day. Make the most of your day in Colmar with the itinerary that I used.

Think of this as a loose framework on which to hang your day. Much of the pleasure of visiting Colmar comes from just mooching around, drinking in its beauty and capturing those Kodak moments.

• MORNING : Self-guided walking tour of Colmar’s historic centre
• LUNCHTIME: Covered Market
• AFTERNOON: Canal cruise, Dominican Church, Saint Martin’s Church, House of Heads
• EVENING : Dinner at Le Soi

MORNING IN COLMAR

Colmar self-guided walking tour.

Start your day in Colmar with a gentle self-guided walking tour. This covers a distance of less than 1 km .

Here’s a map of Colmar to help you on your way, based on that provided by the helpful Tourist Information Office. For an interactive map, click here or on the image.

This suggested walking route has numbered key sights, many of which have adjacent information boards.

Helpful pavement plaques of Lady Liberty will point you in the right direction. These are a nod to Colmar’s most famous son, the sculptor  Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi , who designed the Statue of Liberty in New York City.

La Petite Venise (Little Venice or Petite Venice)

Your first stop is La Petite Venise.

This is the name given to the area crossed by canals of the River Launch and is where the city hits peak prettiness. As this is not exactly a well-kept secret, start early before the crowds descend.

Start on  Rue Turenne  and then turn onto  Quai de la Poissonnerie .

This is the old  Fishmongers’ Quarter  and, as the name suggests, was where the town’s fisherman and boatman lived and worked. The kaleidoscope of pastel-coloured buildings we see lining Colmar’s canals today is thanks to extensive restoration work that took place between 1979 and 1981.

This is also the best place to capture those images of the old town that adorn many postcards of Colmar. Set your camera to stun on the bridge at Rue des Ecoles for those Instaworthy images.

The Tanners’ Quarter & Place de l’Ancienne Douane

From here, make your way to the  Tanners’ Quarter,  named after the tanners who used to live and work in this district. The half-timbered houses lining  Rue des Tanneurs mostly date from the 17 th  and 18 th  Centuries.

Walk back to the  Place de l’Ancienne Douane , the location of one of Colmar’s famous  Christmas markets . This is also where you will find the  Old Customs House  (Koïfhus), dating back to 1480.

The Pfister House (Maison Pfister)

Once you have admired the Old Customs House’s Renaissance-style exterior, turn down Rue des Marchands and across the town’s main street – Grand Rue – to take a look at the  Pfister House.  It is named after the family who restored it and lived there between 1841 and 1892.

Built in 1537 from soft Vosges sandstone, this Colmar landmark is known for its delicate mural paintings representing biblical and secular scenes. Look out also for the wooden oriel window adorned with medallions depicting emperors of the Roman Empire.

LUNCHTIME IN COLMAR

Colmar’s covered market (marché couvert).

By now you should have worked up an appetite. You will find entrances to Colmar’s 14 th  Century Marché Couvert on Rue des Vignerons and Rue des Écoles.

LUNCH RECOMMENDATION

Break for lunch at Légumez-Moi, in the centre of the market, for one of their delicious gratins, a glass of local Reisling and quick service with a smile. Cheap too.

AFTERNOON IN COLMAR

Colmar canal cruise.

Eight euros of your hard-earned cash (2024 price) will buy you a 30-minute cruise along Colmar’s canals. This gives you a close-up view of the town’s medieval buildings before venturing into a more verdant, residential area.

Remember to duck your head when going under those stone bridges!

I bought my boat ticket from La Krutenau restaurant, where Rue Turenne meets Quai de la Poissonnerie. The embarkation point is adjacent to the restaurant.

Admire an artistic masterpiece in the Dominican Church (Église des Dominicains)

Dating mainly from the 14 th  Century, the Dominican Church’s airy interior is illuminated by sublime stained glass windows. However, its star turn is  Martin Schongauer’ s masterpiece,  Madonna of the Rose Bush  (1473).

You will find the church on Place des Dominicains. A small entrance fee applies.

Gaze upwards at the Gothic splendour of Saint Martin’s Church (Collégiale Saint-Martin)

From the Dominican Church, it’s a two-minute walk along Rue des Serruriers to Saint Martin’s Church.

Built between 1234 and 1365 from local pink limestone, locals may refer to it as a cathedral. However, it was a cathedral for less than a decade at the time of the French Revolution.

Its 71-meter-high tower is notable for its lantern shape. Other noteworthy features are its extravagant Baroque organ and two exterior anti-Semitic images – Judensäue – that bear testament to the troubled history of Jews in Alsace.

Admission is free.

The House of Heads

If you have enough time and energy, make a small detour to the House of Heads. Built in the 17th century for the shopkeeper Anton Burger, this German Renaissance building owes its name to the 106 heads that adorn its façade.

EVENING IN COLMAR

Feast on alsace pizza & wine.

My favourite place was the cosy and exceptionally friendly Le Soi at 17 Rue des Marchands. They only do one dish – Tarte Flambée – but, boy oh boy, they do it well!

I sat at the counter, chatting to the other diners, and the owners let me polish off the bottle of excellent Alsace Pinot Noir.

In my opinion, Alsace wines are criminally underrated. This part of France has been one of my favourite wine regions for some years and produces mostly white wines: Reisling ,  Gewurztraminer ,  Pinot Gris  and  Muscat .

The perfect end to a perfect day in Colmar.

Alsatian Food is a perfect marriage of French and German cuisine. Here are a few things that you can expect to find on the menus of Colmar’s restaurants.

Tarte Flambée  – This is an “Alsace Pizza”, with cream ham and cheese topping a wafer-thin flatbread.

Bæckeoffe  – A slow-cooked casserole of sliced potato, onions, mutton, beef and pork.

Choucroure Garnie  – Wine-braised sauerkraut, cured pork, and sausages, flavoured with juniper berries, garlic and cloves.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Colmar?

Unless you want to visit the markets or attend its festivals,  Spring or Autumn  are the best times to visit Colmar. It was warm and sunny when I visited in September and, although it was busy, Colmar wasn’t rammed with visitors.

The  quieter months  are January / February and early to mid-November. At the end of November, Colmar becomes a lot busier with the arrival of its famous  Christmas markets , which are open from the end of Novement until late December.

Visitor numbers peak again during the summer, particularly during the  Colmar International Festival ,  showcasing classical music, in early July, and during the  Alsace Wine Fair  in late July / early August.

Easter  can also be a busy time in Colmar when it hosts Easter markets

Getting There

Colmar is in eastern France, close to the border with Germany, 40 miles southwest of Strasbourg and around 235 miles from Paris. I used it as a base to explore the Alscase region, staying there for four nights.

It has excellent train connections to other European cities, including Strasbourg and the Freiburg in Germany . The train station is around a 15-minute walk from Colmar’s old town.

• Paris, France : 2 hours 17 minutes
• Strasbourg, France : 32 minutes
• Basel, Switzerland : 45 minutes
• Zurich, Switzerland : 2 hours
• Luxembourg, Luxembourg : 2 hours 30 minutes

Colmar is equidistant from  Strasbourg  and  Basel  international  airports .

You can also easily include Colmar in a  road trip  through Europe.

Getting Around

As Colmar‘s main attractions are close to each other, walking is your best option.

My Top Tips for Visiting Colmar

Stay overnight

Many people visit Colmar on a day trip. However, I recommend staying at least one night.

This will allow you to enjoy the streets of Colmar in the evening when they have emptied of day-trippers. It also means that you will be able to sample Alsace food and wine in one of Colmar’s many excellent restaurants.

Make dinner reservations in advance .

Even though I visited Colmar out of peak season, its restaurants were still busy. I dread to think how difficult it would be to get seated without a reservation in peak season.

Where to Stay in Colmar

Colmar hotel choices are limited in its old town. However, there is a decent selection of apartments from which to choose.

Mid-range  – My Sweet Homes Appartements avec SPA  

I stayed at this well-equipped apartment which is centrally located.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES & BOOK

Here are two other places to stay in Colmar that I have found that may suit different budgets

Spluge – James Boutique Hotel

Close to the Old Town, this boutique hotel has superb reviews.

Budget – Ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare  

Budget options in Colmar are scarce and this may be your best bet.  A modern chain hotel within 15 minutes walk of both the city centre and train station.

>>> None of these places takes your fancy? Discover other great accommodation choices in Colmar here .

Thank you for reading my guide to spending one day in Colmar

As one of the most beautiful towns in France, Colmar is well worth visiting. Around every corner, there are twisting cobblestone streets, impossibly scenic canals and candy-coloured buildings adorned with window boxes bursting with blooms.  

Colmar is also a great base from which to explore the Alsace region of France and is a worthy inclusion in a broader European itinerary. Why not add it to a visit to Paris, just over two hours away by train? 

Better still, include it in a trip to Germany and Switzerland. Colmar was the final stop of my Interrail train itinerary from London. This started in the lovely Swiss capital of Bern and the Bernese Oberland , before taking the Glacier Express from St. Moritz to Zermatt and exploring the Locarno region .

However you choose to visit, I hope that these fabulous things to do in Colmar help you have the very best time in one of France’s loveliest towns. If you’ve enjoyed this article, take a look at some of my other France guides:

• A Weekend in Normandy: Day Trips from Honfleur
• For the Love of Fizz: 5 Best Champagne Houses in Reims, France
• Visiting Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral, France
• One Day in Lille, Northern France
• One Day in Nice, France
• One Week in Provence by Rail Made Easy

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Guided boat tour of Colmar

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Boat guided tour on the canals of Colmar

Enjoy one of colmar’s best asset: calm and nature.

Visit Colmar on the canals and discover the most famous districts but also the secret stories and anecdotes about Colmar and its inhabitants.

You will also discover the bourgeois houses of Colmar and enjoy one of Colmar’s best asset: calm and nature: no cars or pollution on the canals but  majestic white swans on the Lauch River which crosses the city.

You can board a small wooden boat for a half an hour walk  (boat fare :6 euros).

Explore Colmar

Little Venice

A romantic stroll in the neighbourhood of the Little Venice.

HISTORIC CENTER

An unforgettable discovery of the historic centre.

ENJOY A KOUGELHOPF!

The Kouglof is a traditional Alsatian cake.

Experience an exceptional moment out of time.

PFISTER HOUSE

This house is an example of Renaissance architecture in Colmar.

UNTERLINDEN MUSEUM

Discover the famous Isenheim altarpiece and other treasures.

KOÏFHUS BUILDING

You will be seduced by its roof and the charm of its facade.

Bartholdi Museum

In the footsteps of the creator of the Statue of Liberty.

MAISON DES TÊTES

Discover the 106 small human heads carved on its facade.

SCHWENDI FOUNTAIN

Make a wish at the Schwendi fountain created by Bartholdi.

MUSEUM AND HANSI VILLAGE

Immerse yourself in the world of the famous illustrator "Hansi".

COLMAR INDOOR MARKET

The best place to find local products, fruit and vegetables.

ALSATIAN WINE TASTING

Enjoy an Alsatian organic wine in the cellars of Domaine Jund.

MANNEKEN-PIS

A beautiful symbol of Franco-Belgian friendship.

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Visiting Colmar, Alsace: France’s fairytale town

Posted on Last updated: September 26, 2022

Could this be France’s prettiest town? A guide to visiting Colmar, Alsace, a fairytale town in northeast France with cobbled streets, colourful medieval buildings and boat trips through the canals.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

I have a weakness for canalside cities – places like Annecy , Bruges , Amsterdam and Venice. But one of my all-time favourites is Strasbourg in France’s Alsace region, a city which is overflowing with half-timbered historic buildings and flower-lined canals. So when I heard there was a nearby town which was supposedly even more colourful, had prettier buildings, with more flowers and extra-scenic canals, how could I resist visiting Colmar?

Visiting Colmar, Alsace

Colmar was apparently the inspiration for the village in the Disney film Beauty and the Beast , and it’s not hard to see why. Walking through its streets is like seeing childhood fairy stories come to life. There’s a wooden turret which would be just perfect for Rapunzel to let her hair down from, tiny cottages that would make the ideal home for seven dwarfs and a candy-coloured bakery that Hansel and Gretel would love to get their teeth into.

In real life, Colmar is a small town which is located in the Alsace region of northeast France. The Alsace is where France meets Germany, and ownership of the region has been passed back and forth between the two countries over the years.

The result is a unique mix of their two cultures – think of it as France with a twist. Colmar was conquered by the French in 1673 but Germany claimed the whole Alsace region in 1871. It stayed German until after WWI when it was given back to the French, then was temporarily occupied by the Germans during the Second World War.

It was the last town in France to be liberated at the end of the Second World War and has been a part of French ever since. But its history means it’s no surprise that you can see a German influence in Colmar’s architecture, culture, food and drink.

Things to do in Colmar

Colmar doesn’t have huge list of must-see attractions, but what it does have is scenic spots by the bucketload. Pack an extra memory card or two – I can’t remember the last place where I took so many photos. Everywhere you look are colourfully painted waterside houses, wooden shutters, twisting cobbled streets and window boxes draped with blooms.

Colmar is the perfect place to wander around and see what you come across. The locals seem justifiably proud of their homes, and everything is neatly painted and maintained.

Some buildings are decorated with hanging lamps, clocks and hearts – then there are a few who’ve have taken it to the extreme by hanging bikes, chairs and who knows what else out front. In Colmar it seems your house is an artwork as well as a place to live.

In among the houses are a mix of cute boutique shops selling local produce like chocolate and wine, as well as art and antiques. Some shops have ornate wrought-iron signs hanging over the street to show what they sell. Then there are also plenty of waterside cafés and tucked-away cellar restaurants. And if you’re visiting Colmar at Christmas, the streets are draped with lights and filled with market stalls selling local food, drink and gifts.

The town does have a few museums to explore, including the Unterlinden Museum with its famous 16th-century Isenheim Alterpiece . There’s also a Toy Museum and the Bartholdi Museum, in the house where local artist Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi was born.

Bartholdi is most famous for creating the Statue of Liberty, and you can find a 12-metre-high replica of it on the road between Strasbourg and Colmar, a few miles out of town.

Also worth a visit is Gothic St Martin’s Church with its colourful tiled roof and 13th century stained glass. The Pfister House is one of Colmar’s most distinctive buildings with its wraparound wooden balcony and octagonal turret. And the Koïfhus was the town’s former customs house built at the meeting point between two major streets.

There’s barely an ugly building in the centre of Colmar, but things reach peak prettiness in the area near the Quai de Poissoniers which has been nicknamed Petit Venice. Colmar’s Little Venice is where you’ll find that picture-perfect row of half-timbered houses painted in pastel shades of pink, yellow and sky blue running alongside the canal.

Colmar’s Petit Venice

Petit Venice was where Colmar’s merchants lived, who transported their goods around by boat along the River Lauch. The story goes that different colours were used to display different types of businesses – so if you were a fisherman your house was painted blue, or a butcher would have a red house. And they’ve been perfectly preserved since.

For a different view of Petit Venice you can take to the water on a boat trip. The canals are pretty shallow in parts (I saw a duck standing on the bottom at one point), so the tours use small, flat-bottomed boats which are similar to punts.

Boats leave from the bridge Saint Pierre, which is next to Restuarant Le Caveau Saint-Pierre. They take small groups on a 25-minute tour through Petit Venice and out to a leafy residential area, with trips costing €7 for adults or €4 for children aged 4–10.

Petit Venice isn’t exactly a secret though, so on a sunny afternoon you’ll be jostling for elbow room with hoards of river cruisers and day-trippers from Strasbourg and Paris to capture the perfect shot. Strasbourg is only 30 minutes away by train and has a similar feel to Colmar, along with a few extra big-city attractions, so the two are often combined.

A lot of visitors only spend a day visiting Colmar, but if you have time to spare it’s worth staying at least one night. The best reason to stay overnight is that in the early mornings or at dusk you can almost have Petit Venice to yourself. When it’s blue hour, with soft street lighting and perfect reflections in the still waters of the canals, the fairytale is real.

Exploring the Alsace

Colmar is also a great base to explore the Alsace wine region, which is famous for its white wines. As well as delicious Rieslings you’ll also find Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris wines, Pinot Noir rosés and a local sparkling wine known as Crémant d’Alsace.

There are plenty of wine bars and shops in Colmar where you can try the area’s wines, but if you want to find out more you can also head out on the Alsace Wine Route. The full route covers over 170km and has hundreds of vineyards and wine producers you can visit.

But closest to Colmar is Eguisheim, which is only 7km away by bike and is renowned for its good looks as well as its wine. Or if you want to go further afield there are guided tours * available to the surrounding villages of Kaysersberg, Riquewihr and Hunawihr.

The details

When to visit colmar, alsace.

There’s not really a bad time for visiting Colmar. Summer is peak season, with average high temperatures of 24–26°C (75–79°F) but occasional thunderstorms. A host of festivals, including the Colmar International Festival and Alsace Wine Fair in July, mean the town gets very busy in summer. So expect crowds and book accommodation well in advance.

Winter is cold with average minimum temperatures just below freezing, but the Christmas markets mean late November and December are a popular time to visit. January and February are much quieter and you might get to see Petit Venice in the snow. Spring and autumn are pleasant with highs from 16–20°C (61–69°F), though can be rainy.

How to get to Colmar

Colmar is in northeast France, close to the German and Swiss borders. If you’re travelling by plane, there’s a small airport in Strasbourg with flights from mainly French airports and a few European and North African destinations. Or there are larger international airports in Basel (known as the Europort), 60km south of Colmar, in Paris or in Zürich.

Colmar is really easy to reach by train – it’s 30 minutes from Strasbourg, 45 minutes from Basel or 2 hours from Zürich. There are a few direct trains from Paris Gare de l’Est to Colmar and others with a change in Strasbourg, all taking around 2.5 hours.

Book your travel to Colmar*

Where to stay in Colmar

If you want to stay right in the heart of Petit Venice, the Hotel le Colombier * is a stylish four-star hotel overlooking the canals in three converted half-timbered townhouses from the 1540s. Rooms vary from standards to suites, and combine period features with contemporary furniture and modern artworks, and a peaceful courtyard garden.

Or we rented a two-bedroom apartment * in an old Alsatian house five minutes’ walk from the centre of Colmar. The building dates from the 17th century but has been given a bright, modern makeover, with a well-equipped kitchen and open-plan dining/living room.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Colmar, Alsace?*

What and where to eat in Colmar

Like the Alsace itself, Colmar’s local cuisine mixes French and German influences. Dishes not to miss include flammekueche (thin-crust pizza topped with bacon, onion and crème fraîche), baeckeoffe (meat and potato stew), choucroûte garnie (sauerkraut with pork and potatoes) and bretzels (tasty pretzel-shaped snacks which taste like doughnuts).

We mixed eating out and self-catering, picking up supplies of fruit and veg, bread and cheese at Colmar’s covered market. If you fancy splashing out, Colmar has 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, with two-star JY’s having the most impressive canalside location.

More low-key are La Soi with its delicious tarte flambée and the rustic Le Caveau Saint Pierre for traditional Alsatian dishes. And save room for Pâtisserie Gilg’s amazing cakes.

Save for later

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Saturday 30th of December 2023

Hello- considering 5-6 days stay in Alsace- late may. Is it best to stay in Colmar, or are there less expensive towns to stay in- looking to rent an apt.- will have a car.

Lucy Dodsworth

Tuesday 2nd of January 2024

Colmar is pricier than some of the surrounding towns but there is a larger selection of rentals so if you book early you may be able to get a good deal. Otherwise you could try Strasbourg which has even more places to stay?

Tuesday 7th of March 2023

We would like to visit Colmar in the month of July (July 14-15). We are travelling to Zurich and would like to take a train from Zurich to Colmar and back to Zurich. What is the best train to take to Colmar? Will we run into any language barrier since we only speak English? How easy it is to see nearby towns from Comar in that region?Thank!

Friday 10th of March 2023

Hi Deepali, 14 July is Bastille Day – a big public holiday in France – so I'd book accommodation well in advance – though it does mean you should get parades and fireworks! From Zurich it's around 2 hours by train to Colmar with a change in Mulhouse and there's normally a train once an hour. You can easily visit Strasbourg by train from Colmar or the Alsace wine area, though you'd need to take a tour for that. And Colmar is fairly touristy so shouldn't have a problem with the language.

Saturday 10th of December 2022

We've been to Colmar a few delightful times over the years and are now considering a month long stay in fall of 2023. My husband has mobility issues due to asthma/COPD and I am wondering if there is access to electric carts or similar for when we want to go any sort of distance.

Tuesday 13th of December 2022

Hi Mary, I think there are mobility scooters available for hire but can't find any contact details, so it might be worth dropping a message to the local tourist board to check where you can get them: https://www.tourisme-colmar.com

Tuesday 4th of October 2022

We are planning on visiting Colmar the week before Easter. Will there be Easter markets and will Comar be decorated for Easter?

Wednesday 5th of October 2022

Hi Kathie, yes there is an Easter market (though it's smaller than the Christmas market) and decorations for three weeks around Easter – from 6–30 April in 2023, and you can find out more at https://www.printemps-colmar.com/en/

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

when is the best time for fall colors in Colmar and Strasbourg? I realize it will be approximate due to weather conditions. We have 2 choices for visit dates - around Sept 30 to October 3 or October 14 to 17.

Thursday 24th of March 2022

Hi Steve, it's really dependent on the summer weather but generally I'd say that the best colours are into October so I'd go for the second date.

• 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
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• 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
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• Colmar by bike
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• Booklets & pdf maps
• Satisfaction survey
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• TOURISM QUALITY

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Alsa Cyclo Tours - Bikes rental and tours

How to create memories of a modern and vibrant Alsace while integrating an environmental, tourist and cultural approach? Here are our 3 ways to do it, using the electric bike as a guideline: 1. A CYCLING HOLIDAY The creation of bike or electric...

ONE CITY TOURS

Discover the old and new symbols of Colmar from a different perspective during a Segway tour of the city and its districts. One city tours also offers guided walking tours, with a tour guide. Various tours are available, lasting 1 hour, 1.5 hours...

Colmar Bike Tours - Alsa Cyclo Tours - Guided Tour with electric bike

Want to discover Colmar and the region in a different way? Thanks to our electric bikes, go with a guide to admire the Alsatian heritage. Also enjoy a wine tasting break or a traditional lunch. For this we offer 4 guided tour options: - “The...

Tourist flights Alsafly

Tourist flights, in ultra-light aircraft, circuit from €125 per person. Various circuits are available to you (approximately 30, 45 & 60 minutes), with flights over the most picturesque sites: Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, Riquewihr,...

RIBEAUVILLE

Tour.alsace - the convertible bus.

With Tour.Alsace, set off to discover one of the most beautiful regions of France. Each circuit has been designed to allow you to fully enjoy, with family or friends, an exceptional day. In our comfortable bus, you will enjoy a panoramic view of...

Ophorus excursionniste

We offer half-day and full-day excursions from Colmar to the most famous sites in the Alsace region. Our private or shared tours of Alsace, in small groups, will take you along the Alsace wine route, surrounded by vineyards. We also organise...

L'Alsaciette - Food & Wine Tours

Half-day or full day gourmet getaways. L'Alsaciette invites you to discover Alsace in all serenity, aboard our minibus 9 seats (driver included), on the Wine Route and the valley of Munster for a discovery of villages, vineyards, winemakers....

FLY FOR YOU Helicopter Colmar

Fly For You Colmar is the Alsatian agency of the French specialist in helicopter tourism. A major player in French aeronautical tourism, Fly For You offers you first flights combining helicopter flights with exceptional places. By definition, a...

Alsasmartours

ALSASMARTOURS is a travel agency specialising in tourist accommodation in Alsace. Alsace's heritage is exceptional. Our aim is to help you touch, feel and understand it, just as much as we want to preserve it. By promoting local products that...

MUTTERSHOLTZ

Flat-bottomed boat - le batelier du ried.

On the Ill and its arms for a historical and naturalistic visit of the Ried, embark with the boatman of the Ried, local actor of ecotourism. Manufacture and restoration of flat-bottomed boats for fishing and leisure: the last "calfat" officially...

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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! 

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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48 hours in Colmar – 2 day Itinerary

Colmar is one of those charming, chocolate-box French towns that you could imagine Belle from Beauty and the Beast skipping through. So, where is Colmar, Alsace?

Resting on the Alsace wine route, Colmar is only a 30-minute train ride south of Strasbourg close to the German border in the western part of France. If you’re visiting Strasbourg, you could easily tag a 2-day itinerary for Colmar at the beginning or end of your trip!

This picturesque place is known for its medieval, half-timbered houses and Renaissance buildings. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re planning a trip to the European Christmas markets and it has lots of wonderful churches, museums, and Riesling wine-tasting experiences. 

Another great time to visit Colmar is during the Colmar International Festival. It takes place during the first two weeks of July and features some of the most exciting concerts and the best musicians around the world. 

When you stay in Colmar , base yourself in the central Vieux Colmar as it’s the best place to stay in Colmar, France for first-time visitors and where you’ll find the Little Venice Christmas markets. Or you could stay near the train station if you are hopping around a few cities and towns in the Alsace Region.

This 48 hours in Colmar itinerary will ensure you know what to do in Colmar, what to see, what to eat, and all the best tours to do when you visit Colmar. Read on to discover the definitive itinerary to Colmar, the French town you need to know about and visit ASAP!

In a hurry and need help quick?

Making last-minute plans for your Colmar itinerary. We’ve got you covered. Our recommended hotels and tours for a getaway to Colmar are listed below.

Recommended hotels:

• ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare (budget hotel)
• Grand Hôtel Bristol (mid-range hotel)
• Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes (family hotel)
• L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar (luxury hotel)

Recommended tours:

• Alsace 4 Wonders Small-Group Day Trip from Colmar
• Segway Tours 2h in Colmar
• Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!
• Through Alsace Vineyards and Wine Villages Private Bike Tour
• France, Germany and Switzerland Full Day Tour from Colmar

Other Helpful Links

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Wise Card : hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.

Table of Contents

2 Day Itinerary for Colmar

Day 1 in colmar, breakfast at au croissant doré.

Start your 2-day itinerary for Colmar off to the right start by enjoying a quintessentially French breakfast at Au Croissant Doré on Rue des Marchands . This is a quirky, unpretentious coffee shop with won wooden furniture and tons of cute nick-nacks hung on the wall.

You can order a range of artisanal coffees and pastries like croissants (in case that wasn’t obvious from the name!), muffins and hot meals too.

Stroll Around Colmar Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Next, spend your morning getting acquainted with Colmar’s Old Town (named Vieille Ville in French) and admire the half-timbered houses and extraordinary architecture.

Continue strolling down Rue des Marchands where you’ll find the Auguste Bartholdi Museum, a monument dedicated to the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty who was born in Colmar.

You should also stroll passed the Pfister House, otherwise known as Maison Pfister, which is a quirky house with a turret dating back to 1537. It was built for a wealthy man named Ludwig Scherer and its exterior paintings are inspired by biblical stories.

Continue walking south to La Petite Venice, so named because this is the canal district of Colmar with lots of cute and colourful houses. It’s also called The Fishmonger District as this is where the fish markets were located in years gone by.

Take a Boat Ride on Colmar Canal

While you’re by the canal, why not take a boat ride and enjoy exploring Colmar from a new angle?

Colmar’s bridges are extremely low so the tourist boats that sail up and down the waters here look more like punting boats that you’d spot in English cities like Cambridge or Oxford.

These long boats are also smaller than the average canal boat that you’d find in other famous Dutch canal cities like Amsterdam or Bruges. This means you’ll get a more intimate experience! 

Lunch at L’Arpège

You’ll have worked up an appetite after all that walking so you should sit down to lunch at  L’Arpège . From the outside, this place might look casual and laid back but the food is anything but relaxed.

They serve incredible three-course meals (yes, even for lunch! This is France, after all!) consisting of 100% French cuisine.

Visit St Martin’s Church

Colmar doesn’t have an official cathedral, but most of the town’s residents consider St Martin’s Church to be their main place of worship. St Martin’s is a huge Gothic Catholic church with medieval statues dating all the way back to the 13th century. 

It’s an incredibly impressive building with beautiful stained glass windows. If you like exploring churches and want to see more on your 2-day itinerary in Colmar, check out the Dominican Church just up the street which displays lots of local Alsatian artworks.

Explore Musée du Jouet

Why does Colmar have a toy museum? Who knows! Regardless, they have an enormous collection of toys from the 1800s all the way to the modern day. 

One of their major attractions is their model train network which covers the entire second floor. They also have dolls, automatons, video games, board games, stuffed animals, model cars, and so much more.

Dinner at Jadis et Gourmande

Jadis et Gourmande isn’t just a nice French restaurant, it’s actually a nice Alsatian restaurant serving food from the local region.

Housed in a traditional building with wooden and stone interiors and red gingham table clothes, you’ll find dishes vegetable tarts, braised beef, fresh potato salads, and, in particular, lots of local pies and pastries.

Day 2 in Colmar

Brunch at bistrot gourmand.

Mix things up on day two of your trip to Colmar by tucking into sweet & savoury crêpes for brunch. Bistrot Gourmand is a simple yet cosy cafe serving breakfast platters with crêpes, fruit, meat, and more that will fill you up for a busy morning of exploring Colmar.

In the warmer months, you can sit on their terrace and eat outside too!

Explore the Unterlinden Museum

Just a short walk northwest of the Bistrot is the Unterlinden Museum , Colmar’s premier art museum.

Housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent, the Unterlinden Museum displays lots of local history and art as well as lots of religious art which makes sense given the building’s origins.

It’s well worth visiting not just to see the artwork but to see the building too. You can still walk through the convent’s cloisters and see the original statues and carvings that existed long before it was turned into a museum.

Stroll Around Parc du Champ de Mars

Parc du Champ de Mars is by no means a big park, but it’s stunning and a pleasant place to enjoy a morning stroll.

There are lots of tree-lined paths, water features, and statues of prominent French people. This is a great place to visit in Colmar if you have kids and they need to blow off some steam!

Lunch at Caveau d’Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a medieval village in the Alsace wine region which is just 7 km southwest of Colmar. Despite its small size, it has a lot of fantastic bars and restaurants including Caveau d’Eguisheim .

This restaurant serves regional dishes like tarts and meat dishes in this extremely historic building with rustic decor and a wood-beamed ceiling.

Cycle to Local Wineries and Alsace Villages

In the afternoon of your second day in Colmar, you should hire bikes and cycle to Eguisheim. It’s one of the closest towns to Colmar in the wine region and it would be a shame to not visit a winery or two when they are so close.

Wolfberger – Cave Eguisheim is a highly-rated, modern winery with a huge selection of wines and a sizable tasting room.

Just down the road from Wolfberger is Domaine Joseph Gruss & Son winery , which is slightly more old school and what you would imagine a quintessential Alsace winery to look like. Join one of their tours so you can explore their cellars as well as taste their wine!

Dinner at Restaurant Le Quai 21

Head back to Colmar, return your bikes, and enjoy a dinner with a view at Restaurant Le Quai 21 . This restaurant is in La Petite Venice and is in a prime position with stunning views across the Old Town and the canal.

Housed in a colourful building with white window shutters and flowerboxes, it’s a homely and cosy place that serves traditional Alsation food with an Italian twist.

They also have an extensive wine menu and experts on hand to help you pick out the perfect bottle too. Hopefully, you didn’t drink too much wine in the afternoon and you’re still in the mood for a glass or two!

Tours in Colmar

Alsace villages half-day tour.

Though it has the feel of a provincial village, Colmar is still quite a bustling town. On this half-day tour , you can get out into the countryside and stroll around some real Alsace villages during your 2 days in Colmar.

Explore the nearby villages of Kayserberg, Hunawihr, and Riquewihr on this very small group tour. As you drive through the wine region and the vineyard you’ll feel like you’re driving back in time!

Colmar Photo Walking Tour

Colmar’s Old Town is undeniably pretty from every angle but there are some hidden gems and top spots that are just a little more Instagrammable than others.

Join a photo walking tour with a knowledgeable, local guide who will show you all the best, most beautiful places in Colmar. Don’t worry, they’ve factored in lots of time for you to stop and take lots of photos and selfies! That’s the point of the tour!

Alsace Vineyard Bike Tour

It would be such a shame to be so close to a beautiful wine region without visiting.

On this bike tour , you can ride out into the countryside from Colmar and try lots of local Alsatian wine from some of the best wineries and vineyards.

You’ll also visit the villages of Eguisheim and Gueberschwihr in the Alsace wine region.

FAQs for 2 Days in Colmar

How many days is enough for colmar.

Spending 48 hours in Colmar really is an ideal amount of time! You can spend one day of your Colmar itinerary exploring the highlights of Colmar itself and then the next day exploring other villages and wineries in the Alsace wine region.

48 hrs in Colmar is ideal if you just want to stick to the town and explore the place at a leisurely pace.

If you want to take a longer trip, you can easily add on a trip to Strasbourg. You could even hop over the Rhine River to Germany and check out some of the towns and villages there!

Is It Better To Stay In Colmar or Strasbourg?

Figuring out whether it’s better to stay in Colmar or Strasbourg depends on what kind of trip you want to take.

Strasbourg is a large city with no shortage of restaurants, museums, bars and other attractions. It also has better transport connections with the rest of France and Europe and has a great range of accommodation options.

While Strasbourg is a pretty city, it does not have the quaint charm of Colmar. So, if you are building a Colmar and Strasbourg itinerary for your trip, it depends on whether charm or amenities are more important to you.

Travellers who have late arrivals or early departures in Strasbourg may also find it more convenient to stay in the city and travel by train to and from Colmar. 

Travellers who want the experience of staying in a quieter and more picturesque town should stay in Colmar. Staying in Colmar over Strasbourg is also a great choice if you have more time to spare. Colmar might have fewer accommodation options, but what it does have are beautiful.

Is Colmar Worth Seeing?

Yes! Colmar is 100% worth seeing. It is a breathtakingly beautiful town with incredible architecture, charming cobblestone streets and a post-card perfect canal.

Visiting Colmar is like falling into a fairytale. Colmar is particularly worth visiting in the warm summer months or during the festive Christmas period.

2 Day Itinerary for Colmar Wrap Up

This Colmar 2-day itinerary will hopefully have shown you that not only is Colmar worth visiting, but there are plenty of things to do in Colmar too.

Planning a trip to Colmar for 48 hours is an ideal amount of time to see the highlights while still being able to find time for leisurely strolls and a glass of wine or two on an outdoor terrace.

Recommended tours in Colmar

• ICONICS Tour: 1/2 day on the Wine Route, visit of 2 Villages + Tasting.
• The Emblematic: visit of villages, Haut-Koenigsbourg, Wine tasting
• Alsace villages half day tour from Colmar
• Alsace’s Gems Small Group Day Tour from Colmar
• Christmas Market Tour from Colmar
• Skip the Line: Toy Museum Colmar Admission Ticket
• Christmas across the 3 borders
• Private Tour: Alsace Wine Tasting Day Trip from Colmar

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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The Medieval Village of Colmar

Colorful streets, pretty buildings, and scenic canals are the main reason thousands of tourists visit the medieval village of Colmar in France. The village resembles a town straight out of a Disney storybook and is an inspiration for many fairy tale films loved worldwide.

Located in-between Germany and France, the medieval village of Colmar is a “must-visit” destination for travelers looking to enjoy a unique and fulfilling holiday. If you are planning to visit Colmar soon, consider visiting during the peak season which is in December and late November.

Top attractions to visit in Colmar

Traveling to Colmar would be incomplete without visiting the well-known sights that are spread all over the village. These sights display the history and culture of the town giving visitors a chance to have an in-depth understanding of the going-ons within the township.

Although the attractions in Colmar are many, some of them stand out from the rest and are worth visiting. Here are some of these “must-visit” attractions in Colmar.

House of Heads or Maison Des Tetes

The oddly named House of Heads is one of the most visited attractions in Colmar. The building which has over one hundred head sculptures on the front, looking down at onlookers has been part of the landscape since 1906.

It was initially put up for a well-known merchant and the mayor of the town in the 17 th century, Anton Burger. However, it was later restored making its final look pleasing to those visiting the site.

At the top of the building is a statue that acts as the crown which was a brainchild of Bartholdi in 1902. The other statues are spread across the facade of the building making it stand out on the street.

Besides the heads, the building has uniquely shaped windows that vary in width and position. Currently, the House of heads is home to some of the famous restaurants in the medieval village of Colmar. These restaurants offer wonderful cuisines and are worth every penny for tourists that visit the village.

The Little Venice of Colmar

Arguably the most eye-catching part of Colmar, Little Venice is located where River Lauch separates from the main canal.

Initially, it was a quarter that hosted fishmongers, tanners, and winemakers that resided next to the water. On either side of the river are half-timbered houses that can be seen when standing on the two bridges.

If you are looking to experience a full village atmosphere, then a visit to Krutenau district that was home to a corporation for market gardeners.

Boat trips are one of the best ways to discover the unforgettable setting provided by Little Venice of Colmar. The canal tour is done using gondolier boats that allow visitors to enjoy a Venetian feel while passing next to stunningly restored houses.

Besides the canal tour, tourists can also visit the fishing quay where fishermen sold fish that were captured in the river. The quay is accessible using a bridge that connects to Tanneurs Street.

Bartholdi Museum

The Bartholdi Museum was first the home of Auguste Bartholdi, a sculptor that was known for creating several impressive statues.

The statues include those of Schwendi Fountain, General Rapp, and Maertin Schongauerwasset up across the town with some being displayed in the museum alongside other works of the artist.

When walking through the building, tourists can interact with photographs, family furniture, engravings, souvenirs, paintings, models, and drawings. These artifacts displayed in the three-story museum give visitors a chance to look deep into the life of the sculptor.

Besides the artifacts displayed in Colmar, Auguste Bartholdi is credited with the creation of the Statue of Liberty which is a famous landmark in the United States. In France, he has also been credited with two famous emblems in the country. These emblems are the monumental Lion of Belfort as well as a statue of Vercongetorix which is located within Clermont-Ferrand.

Best outdoor activities

Spending time outdoors is a great way of exploring the medieval village of Colmar and relaxing as well. The town has a lot of outdoor activities that can be done alone or with groups when on vacation. Here are some things to do when in Colmar.

Walk Through Champ de Mars Park

Champ de Mars is a popular public park in Colmar and is used for military parades and other national ceremonies. It is a peaceful haven located right at the center of the town that tourists love to visit when in the village.

Walking through the park reveals expansive green areas that include tall trees that line the walkways. It also has many benches that give visitors to revel in the shade provided by the trees.

Statues of famous people in Colmar are also spread across the alleys of the park which include one of General Rapp as well as Fontaine Bruat. These statues were the creation of Bartholdi, a famous sculptor whose museum stands in Colmar as well. A fountain also stands in the middle of the park enhancing its appearance and making it very welcoming.

If you are traveling with children, you can take them to their dedicated playground within the park, and later they can enjoy drinks at kiosks next to the Carousel Salon.

Relax at Base Nautique

After exploring Colmar for an entire day, you can take a break by visiting Base Nautique. The boating center is an expansive property that consists of a beach with fine sand plus dedicated spaces for various leisure activities.

Spending time in the clear lake is a great way to cool off by swimming and getting involved in other water activities. The facilities are world-class with large changing booths and spotless toilets.

If traveling with children, you are all set when at Base Nautique because of the facilities that are designed for kids. The children’s slides are within a wooded area just a short walk from the main facility area.

Parents can also enjoy viewing different activities taking place at the boating center. A snack bar is also part of the facility making it easier to buy food to eat while at the center.

Best day trips from Colmar

Although the medieval village of Colmar is an exciting place to explore, taking a day trip away can be a great way to take a break. Some of the best locations to visit around include Eguisheim and Riquewihr.

Eguisheim is near Colmar on the Southwest and is easily accessible by both public and private means. For an adventure, you can cycle to the town from the train station and through open fields to get to the town.

The picturesque village is considered one of the most favorite towns in France with a castle and ring roads that circle the town. Walking around the town and learning more about its history is made possible with plaques placed across the village.

Riquewihr is another excellent location for a day trip in the eastern side of France. It has beautiful cobbled streets lined with tasting rooms and half-timbered shops selling wine.

Au Petite Delice is a “must-visit” for dessert lovers as they serve tasty chocolate macaroons that leave you wanting more. The region also has many landmarks that are worth visiting like the Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg among others.

Upcoming events

Colmar holds several events throughout the year which can be fun for tourists visiting the medieval village. Some popular events include the Colmar international festival, Alsace wine fair , and Alsatian folklore evening ( May to September, every Tuesday evening ) among others.

Where to Stay in the Medieval Town of Colmar?

If you’ve already decided to give Colmar a try, then finding a great accommodation isn’t hard.

Besides its lovely charm, Colmar is not that expensive. But, depending on the time you choose to visit, it might get a bit pricey. As a consequence, it’s always best to book in advance and enjoy the perks of discounts!

Booking a room in Colmar’s City Center

If you want to be right in the middle of it all, then Hotel Saint-Martin is just 350m from the city center. Situated right in the heart of the beautiful medieval town, its charm fits right in the landscape.

Non-smoking rooms, pet friendly, a very good breakfast and a wonderful view – that’s what you get!

You will also find great accommodation spots near the city’s center if you book a room at the cosy Mercure Colmar Centre Unterlinden (250m) or a historical apartment at L’ambassadeur

If you can’t decide on the location, then a map of the best available booking spots in Colmar is just below.

Have a safe trip and enjoy!

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I'm in my early 30s and found that I do enjoy travelling! While I am also a senior administrator at a web hosting company, I also have my own little business and make bow ties in my spare time :) I've created this blog so that anyone who loves to travel can find helpful info for their journey. And, why not, share it with other travelers!

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How to spend a magical one day in Colmar old town

Spending one day in Colmar old town and wondering what to see? Here’s everything you need to know.

Plan your one day in Colmar old town

👩🏻   Best guided tours in Colmar Old Town

• 1/2 day on the Wine Route, visit of 2 Villages + Tasting (⭐ 5/5)
• Self-Guided and Interactive City Tour – Colmar (⭐ 4.5/5)
• Taste Alsace: Tasting of our Alsace wines (⭐ 5/5)

🫶🏼  Where to stay in Colmar Old Town

• Cottage style: Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal (⭐8.6)
• Perfect location: La Maison du Batelier (⭐9.3)
• Great apartment: L’Ours de Colmar (⭐9.1)

Old town Colmar, France is the most enchanting little fairy tale town in the world. I mean, just look at those colourful houses and cobblestone streets.

Colmar is also known as the real ‘Beauty and the Beast town’. While it’s unconfirmed if this dreamy provincial French town was the inspiration for the Disney movie, I think the photos speak for themselves. 

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your one day in Colmar, including what to do, where to eat and where to spend the night.

Let’s dive in.

This post contains referral links for products I love. Adventurous Miriam earns a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support ♡ Learn more

Is one day in Colmar enough?

Yes, one day in Colmar is enough to see the main attractions.

If you want to soak up the fairy tale vibe and Alsatian food, you can easily spend a few days here too, though. Colmar is also eminent as an anchor for day trips to other villages on the Alsace wine route. 

Introduction to old town Colmar

Colmar is a medieval town from the 13th century, located in Alsace. It’s one of the many picturesque villages on the legendary 170-km-long Alsace Wine Route. 

Colmar has nearly 70,000 inhabitants. For a medieval town, it’s surprisingly big, but you can get around Petite Venice (the main attraction) on foot with ease. 

Once upon a time, the canals were buzzing with butchers, tanners and fishmongers, and Petite Venice was a centre for art and learning. The town’s half-timbered houses are typical Alsace architecture, from the colourful fishermen’s houses on Quai de la Poissonnerie to the lovely old burghers’ houses of the 16th century.

How to get to Colmar

Colmar is easily visited as a day trip from Strasbourg (1 hour by train), Zürich, Switzerland  (1,5 hours by train) or Paris (4 hours by train). Petite Venice is 15-20 minutes walk from Colmar train station.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Alsace. There are so many charming villages to see, and it’s not super easy with public transportation.

Best Car Rental Company:

Discover cars.

When booking your car rental online, I recommend  Discover Cars . They compare prices at car rental agencies all over the country to get you the best deal.

How to get around Petite Venice

You can walk through Petite Venice in less than 15 minutes if you’re not stopping for photos. If you don’t feel like walking, you can take a canal boat trip (30 minutes – €7 per person). It’s very popular and seats get sold out quickly in the high season so make sure to go in the morning or make a reservation.

You can also take the Little White Train (runs every 30 minutes – €7 per person).

You can also join an interactive walking tour with Viator where you’ll navigate through the city, take quizzes and discover Colmar’s buildings, heroes, legends and secrets.

12 things to do in Colmar

Here’s a list of my favourite things to do in Colmar – everything is located in a close distance from each other (a few minutes walk). If you’re looking for fun activities while you’re in town, check out these highly rated tours below.

1. Walk around Colmar old town

My favourite thing to do in Colmar was wandering the cobblestone streets, especially around the canals. There are so many beautiful alleyways with small shops, restaurants and winstubs (wine lounges).

There are of course some showstoppers around town. But make sure to also just walk around town and admire the colours and little alleys. 

2. Krutenau Quarter (Petite Venise)

The Petite Venise is the most picturesque area of Colmar. These typical Alsatian half-timbered houses are located along the riverbanks (hence the name, little Venice ).

This area starts behind the Koïfhus, goes through the fishmonger’s district and to the bridges Saint-Pierre and Turenne. 

3. Fishmonger’s district (Quai de la Poissonnerie)

In Petite Venice, you’ll find Quai de la Poissonnerie, also known as the fishmonger’s district. This is where most of the professional fishermen and boatmen of Colmar lived and sold fish in the 17th and 18th centuries.

It’s also the most iconic place in the city. A must-visit!

4. Tanners Quarters

The tanner’s quarters or tanner’s district is an area with half-timbered houses and high wood framing houses dating back to the 17th and 18 century. 

The tanners created leather products here, and they would dry out the skins on the upper floors. The must-sees in this area are the streets, Petite Rue des Tanneurs and the Rue des Tanneurs, and the Maison des Chevaliers de Saint-Jean (House of the St. John’s Knights).

5. House of Heads

The house of Heads was built in 1609, the German renaissance. It’s embellished with 106 grotesque heads on the facade and along the windows and it was originally a wealthy private house. Definitely worth finding!

6. Saint Martin Church

Saint Martin’s collegiate church, built between 1235 and 1365, is an important example of Gothic architecture in Alsace. Notice the lantern bulb on the top of the dome. It’s quite unique.

7. Old customs house (Koifhus)

Built in 1480, the Koifhus (old customs house) has had several functions. 

Originally, the ground floor was used as a warehouse and the first floor for the Alsace federation meetings, which was created in 1534. Since then it’s been a theatre, bank and several schools.  

8. Former guard house

It was originally a chapel, but converted into a guard house in 1575. Notice the Renaissance loggia from 1582 and its decorative repertoire and portal. It’s very beautiful.

9. Unterlinden museum

The Unterlinden museum houses the famous Issenheim Altarpiece. The museum was first located in the 13th century convent, but was connected with the next building in 1906.

10. Dominican church

Entrance fee: 2 Euro

The Dominican church dates back to the first half of the 14th century. It’s an important piece of mendicant orders architecture, which was a new approach to sacred space.

11. The Pfister house

The Pfister house was built in 1537 for the hatter Ludwig Scherer, and it’s the first example of architectural renaissance in Colmar. It got the name from the family who restored it in 1892. 

Notice the murals and wood gallery.

12. Take a boat trip

Colmar old town is walkable and easy to get around. You can, however, also take a boat trip on the canals. It’s a different and fun way of exploring the town.

The departures are at the foot of the bridge Saint Pierre and the tour lasts 30 minutes. 

Tickets: 7 € per person (sold at the dock) Free for children under 10

Best restaurants in Colmar old town

Colmar prides itself of being the capital of Alsatian wine; a white delicious variety. It’s really, really good.

So is the food! Some of you good people might not be delighted with French food and right now you’re thinking about snails and frog legs and you’re tempted to run straight for the hills.

But this is not your average French food. No sticky animals.

With Alsace food, we’re talking about a whole different beast: rich and buttery French-German meat (mostly pork or chicken) that is bathing its little self in a sizzling hot pan of Riesling or truffle sauce. And don’t get me started on the creamy, handmade and beyond BEAUTIFUL pastries. If there was ever a place to try French food, Colmar would be it.

Excellent restaurants in Colmar (make a reservation).

• Kuifhus restaurant (next to the former guard house)
• L’Epicurien (Michelin)
• Restaurant La Soi
• La Nouvelle Auberge
• Les Racines
• Le Petit Bidon
• Le Comptoir de Georges

Tips for visiting Colmar old town

• Make a reservation for dinner
• Get there in the morning to avoid the crowds
• Colmar is prettiest from May to August when the flowers are in bloom

Where to stay in Colmar

If you’re spending the night, I recommend staying in Colmar old town (remember, Colmar is a big city and you’ll want to be near the attractions and restaurants).

Hotel Le Marechal – Les Collectionneurs (⭐ 8.6) is a four-star hotel from 1565, located in Little Venice. Reasonable prices for air-con rooms overlooking the canal. Find the latest prices here.

Day trips from Colmar

Colmar Region has several nearby villages that are also ultra-charming. If you have a car , you can drive to nearby Ribeauvillé (17 km from Colmar), Riquewihr (14 km), Kaysersberg (11 km), and Eguisheim (8 km) all in one day.

On this half-day tour with Viator , you’ll see the best villages in one day. It’s a great way to explore Alsace if you don’t have a car.

You can also visit Strasbourg , which has a beautiful old town. Strasbourg itself is a large town without the little-fairy-tale-village charm, though.

Now, over to you! What’s the cutest town you’ve visited? Is it as charming as Colmar old town?

Colmar old town FAQ

Is colmar france worth visiting.

Absolutely! Colmar is definitely worth visiting.

Colmar is a charming and picturesque town located in the Alsace region of northeastern France, known for its fairytale half-timbered houses, canals, and fantastic Christmas markets.

The town has a rich history and culture, with several museums, galleries, and historic landmarks. Colmar is also famous for its gastronomy, with a wide variety of local Alsace dishes and wines.

Is Colmar nicer than Strasbourg?

Yes, Colmar is better (sorry, Strasbourg).

Colmar is smaller and less crowded than Strasbourg, with a more intimate and charming atmosphere. It’s known for its colourful half-timbered houses and canals, which give it a fairytale-like ambiance.

On the other hand, Strasbourg is larger and more cosmopolitan, with a rich history and culture, and it’s home to several iconic landmarks, such as the Strasbourg Cathedral and the Petite France neighbourhood. It also has more museums, restaurants, and cultural institutions than Colmar.

What is the prettiest street in Colmar?

The prettiest street in Colmar is the Rue des Marchands (Merchants’ Street). This street is located in the heart of the old town and is lined with colorful half-timbered houses, flower boxes, and charming shops and cafes.

The street dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest streets in Colmar. It is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Pfister House, which is one of the most famous and well-preserved examples of Renaissance architecture in Colmar.

What is the famous place in Colmar?

One of the most famous places in Colmar is the Little Venice (La Petite Venise), a picturesque neighbourhood located in the heart of the old town.

The neighbourhood stretches along the Lauch River and is characterised by its colorful half-timbered houses, flower boxes, and charming cafes and restaurants.

More posts from France you might like

• Strasbourg:  7 incredible things to do in Strasbourg
• Photo tips:  Travel photography tips for Petite France, Strasbourg
• Paris:  How to spend one day in Paris
• Champagne tour: 8 best private Champagne tours from Paris
• Wine tour: 9 amazing Avignon wine tours to try

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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47 comments.

Thanks so Much for that post 😉

You’re welcome, Emmanuel! I’m glad you liked it 🙂

Love your pics, the colors are sooo beautiful!

It has to be the most colorful town I’ve ever been to. Loved Colmar <3

Thanks for this post very detailed and full of very nice tips. I am surprised though that you did mention Strasbourg without writing a word about the breath-taking small towns of Riquewihr and Ribeauville. They are closer to Colmar than Strasbourg and certainly must see places.

This cannot be real life! Is this a dream? Absolutely gorgeous. I love the colorful buildings

That’s what I thought when I first saw photos of Colmar. And I tell you, it’s even prettier in real life – totally has that fairytale feel.

Definitely like taken out of a fairytale! Amazing pictures! I would love to Visit Colmar soon!

Absolutely go! It’s the most fairytale-like town in Europe and it’s so, so cute. Plus, the food…..!

Great posting and excellent pictures, thank for sharing….we welcome you to Mt Rinjani Indonesia

Thanks so much!

Thanks for this post! Colmar is high on my bucket list and your post will definitely be helpful when I finally get to go!

So glad to hear that, Sabs. Colmar is beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

Love that puddle reflection especially! Great photos!

Thanks so much, Leigh! It’s such a happy place.

Thanks Miriam, we are visiting Colmar early September, sooooo looking forward

Oh, how lovely! It’s such a beautiful little town. Make sure to make reservations if you plan to go out for dinner. They’re quite busy.

Have a great trip, Ginnee.

Thanks for your post. Very detailed and informativ. By the way there are a lot of interestings things to do in the Grand Est, as now the region around Colmar is called. There are also many legends told in this aerea. A good source for new informations is always searching for the town together with ‘office de tourisme’. Mostly several languages can be chosen. Have a nice visit.

Thanks for the additional info, Bou! And you’re absolutely right; the tourism office has lots of great information about restaurants, activities and history.

realy nice post 🙂

Thank you so much! 😀

I’m teaching english in the west of France, and I have a spring break coming up and I’m going to visit Colmar! Do you think 2 days there is enough time? I’m also hoping to go to Strasbourg right after for 2 days. I love your post by the way, it’s been really helpful!!

Oh sure. I visited Colmar on a day trip from Strasbourg and toured the old town (the main attraction) in a couple of hours. Colmar is very small, and apart from all the amazing restaurants you’ll probably want to visit, 2 days are more than enough to see everything.

Hi Miram, absolutely love you posts. I’m planning to visit Paris in early September for 5 nights, and then train to Strasbourg for 2 nights, and then Colmar for 1 night before taking a train to Interlaken. Or is it better just to stay the 3 nights in Strasbourg?

So glad to hear that, Priscilla. Thanks 🙂 Well, it depends on how relaxed an itinerary you want. I’d probably just take a day trip to Colmar since you don’t have more time – it can easily become a bit stressful to move hotel every other day. Plus, Colmar is an easy and quick train ride from Strasbourg.

Hi Miriam, Great post. Can I know which month you have visited Colmar?

Thanks, Lee San! I went in May.

Hi Miriam! Great post! Im taking also a day trip to Colmar. Do you think 6 hours will be enough?

Hi Claudia! Yes, 6 hours will be fine. Colmar is not that big – well, the city is, but the old town where all these photos are taken, is quite small. You can have lunch there and still have time to see everything.

Hi We are traveling to France in the beginning of June. We will stay in Paris for 3 days and then to the Alsace area for 2 nights. I will be traveling with my husband and 12 year old son. I have researched for hours where is the best place to stay and still can’t make a decision. Ideally we would like to make one place our home base and rent a car to see the entire region. We are fast moving travelers and we like to see lots of sites. Question: should we make Strasbourg or Colmar our home base? Thanks

Hi Leslee, I recommend having Colmar as your base. It’s a smaller town than Strassbourg, but it’s closer to the medieval fairy tale villages like Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Turckheim.

Have a great trip!

Me and my mother are traveling to France at this end of April. We are planning to stay in Paris for 3 days and then to Strasbourg – Colmar for 3 days, after that we are going to Lourdes. Do you think we better stay in Strasbourg and day trip to Colmar or otherwise? I am aiming for the easiest transportation to Lourdes. Thank you.

Hi Hils, Personally, I would prefer to stay in Colmar and visit Strasbourg on a day trip. Colmar is much smaller and cosy, and you could visit some of the nearby fairy tale villages, like Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Turckheim. It only takes 30 minutes from Colmar to Strabourg by train, and you can reach Lourdes from both cities, also by train.

Have a great trip with your mom.

I am going this May. My base will be Basel but I’ll make it a 1-day trip to Colmar. Is it easy to walk around and how close is the center from the train station?

Yes, very easy! It takes about 15-20 minutes to walk from the train station and it’s fairly easy to find (otherwise ask someone where the old town is). Make sure to have lunch in Colmar, they have such great food!

Hi Miriam, we are travelling in late Dec and early January from Australia. I have been told we must see Colmar, and after a bit of research it looks just gorgeous. I am keen to see the Christmas market and have time to wander the streets and just relax. How many days would you allow? We are then heading to Paris, and I am undecided where to spend Christmas. We will be travelling with our 2 kids ( 19 and 21 year olds) . Having never been to Europe or UK I am not sure how much time to allow for things.Thanks

It sounds like a wonderful idea to visit Colmar during Christmas. It’s one of the most magical towns in Europe so you won’t regret going there. Colmar old town (where you’ll find the colorful, medival houses) is fairly small and you could explore in a day. I went there on a day trip from Strasbourg.

I’d say two days in Colmar is enough; it’ll give you time to wander the streets and enjoy the Christmas market. Maybe you could add an extra day and visit Strasbourg? You should go early in the morning so you have enough time. It’s just 30 minutes by train from Colmar and definitely worth the trip. You can see some photos and things to do there: https://adventurousmiriam.com/strasbourg-on-a-budget/

Have a great trip with your family.

I’m in Colmar right now. 42 Grand Rue. The most delightful house, still looks medieval from the outside, but completely modern inside. We’re right next to Ancienn Douane. Colmar is everything you said it was and more. Absolutely beautiful and steeped in history.

Ooh, enjoy Colmar! I often dream myself back to those medieval houses and the food.

Have an amazing trip 🙂

Great post! Looks amazing beautiful and sooo pretty! I will be going there in 2 weeks time for a day trip from Zurich 🙂 I know it’s winter time but hoping to have a great experience in this beautiful town.

Any recommendations on whether to travel on a Saturday or Sunday? I am afraid most shops/bakeries/restaurants might be closed due to low season over the weekend?

Thanks alot!

I’m sure you’ll have a great trip. And I bet it’s really magical in the winter (especially if there’s snow). I’m not sure about opening times, but I’m pretty sure you can find something that’s open.

Love your post and photos. Is it doable to take a train from Paris to Colmar for the day? Thank you, Toni O

Yes, absolutely! Trains leave every 30 minutes. The quickest route is 2h50 minutes. The first train leaves Paris at 06:23, the last at 20:25.

Thanks for Your Great post, because it is very nice article for everyone. Thank you very much for sharing this blog.

My pleasure!

Wow, great tour information and amazing pictures, thanks for sharing

You’re welcome!

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• Nederlands ( Dutch )

Colmar: practical tips for visiting the cutest French town that became a social media hit

In the heart of the Alsace Wine Route, charming Colmar a.k.a. Little Venice is a top tourist destination. Probably one of the most photographed towns of – at least eastern – France! The well-preserved old town of Colmar is home to hundreds of centuries old half-timbered houses and lovely canals. In this article photos, tips and practical information you may find useful for your visit to picturesque Colmar.

In this article

Popular colmar, historic colmar, little venice, boat ride in colmar, french statue of liberty, where to eat & drink in colmar, cheers to colmar, colmar surroundings, when to go to colmar, christmas in colmar, where to stay in colmar, parking in colmar, public transport, is colmar worth visiting.

Despite its population of 67K and tourist steams, Colmar preserves the intimacy of a small country town yet offers a rich heritage and culture. Besides its obvious charm, Colmar’s popularity seems to be the result of a strong marketing strategy accelerated by social media. A bit like popular Greek island Santorini . Tripadvisor’s titles ‘European Best Hidden Gems 2015’ and ’12 Fairy-tale Places That Are Actually Real (2014 and 2015) for sure helped too, to make Colmar more popular than ever.

Colmar’s history goes way back, the name appears for the first time in 823. The name Colmar has a Roman origin and it means dovecote (pigeon shelter). Voltaire, a famous French writer, historian and poet, stayed in Colmar over a year (1753-1754) and described the town as ‘half-German and half- French’. Apparently he had a clear foresight. The Germans ruled over Colmar from 1871 to 1918 and from 1940 to 1945. Colmar has been part of France since 1945, but you can still sense a bit of German style (but don’t tell that to the French, they may feel offended).

One day an important fishing port and fish market, nowadays picturesque area Quai de la Poissonnerie goes by the nickname ‘Little Venice’ or ‘La Petite Venise’ in French. Poisson means fish. In English the area is also referred to as The Fishmonger District. Everything is well maintained, flowers everywhere, neat streets, the houses are painted in different colors… and oh I love those cute shutters!

Many of the houses in Colmar date back from the Middle Ages to Renaissance and have been placed on the historical monuments list. The flourished pedestrian town center of Colmar is not rarely referred to as ‘an open air museum’. The canal that flows through the town is called La Lauch. You can take a boat ride like in Venice in Italy !

The smallest house in Colmar, nicknamed ‘Fly Box’, is located at the corner of the Place de l’École and is just 25m².

A good way to see Colmar is by taking a boat ride over the canals, along the picturesque houses in the center of town. The boats are rather small but fit around 12-15 people. The ride takes about 25 min and costs EUR 6 per person (cash only). Starting point is next to Pont de Saint Pierre (bridge at Boulevard Saint-Pierre). Ideally you sign up for a certain departure time later that day.

Most rides are guided in French. Boat rides are available daily from 9 Feb till Dec 31 from 10:00h till 18:30h. Be aware: the skippers have lunch break between 12:00h and 13:30h. In Jan, Feb and Nov limited opening hours, usually only during the weekends (depending on the weather conditions). For contact details see the website of the boat company Colmar au Fill de l‘Eau .

Walking around Colmar you may notice images of the Statue of Liberty, on tourist signs, floor tiles, maps, etc. Colmar is the birthplace of the creator of the famous Statue of Liberty in New York Cit y , sculptor Auguste Bartholdi . To commemorate his 100th death anniversary, a 12-meter high mini version of the Statue of Liberty was installed at the northern entrance of Colmar. I guess you know that the big Statue of Liberty in NYC was a gift from France to the US?

Wandering around Colmar, you probably will get hungry or at least thirsty at some point, especially with summer temperatures. Be aware where you step in… There are three restaurants with 1* or 2** Michelin stars located in the heart of Colmar’s old town, where a starter easily costs EUR 35 or more. For sure delicious but pricey. There are a some nice restaurants with canal view, such as Le Caveau Saint Pierre right next to the boat stand.

In so-called Winstubes traditional, relatively simple Alsatian cuisine is served, along with local wine (or beer, if you prefer). ‘Win’ means wine and ‘stub’ refers to the warmest room of a traditional farmhouse. For your information: the dish ‘Sueri Nierli’ is veal or pork kidneys cooked in vinegar, yikes! My tips:

• Winstub Brenner
• Winstub de la Petite Venice
• Restaurant Winstub Pfeffel

If all you are looking for is an affordable yet tasty baguette with a refreshing drink, go to the modern and centrally located market hall ‘Halle du Marche Couvert’. This is where locals do their high quality groceries; meat, fish, cheese, jams, fruit, veggies, herbs, etc. The damage of two sandwiches and drinks? Less than EUR 10. The market hall has a canal view terrace on the side with parasols.

Colmar, located at the foot of a vineyard, part of the 170km Alsatian Wine Route, is considered the ‘capital of Alsace wines’. Alsace is the French region Colmar is part of. Every year in August, the annual Wine Fair of Alsace is held in Colmar – since six decades that is! The nowadays two weeks’ event attracts app. 300K people with wine tasting and music.

91% of the wine produced around Colmar is white, dry and aromatic, such as Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc and Riesling. Want to see the vineyards? This Alsace Full Day Wine Tour from Colmar is a great idea. Cheers to Colmar!

Staying in Colmar for multiple days, interested to see the surroundings of Colmar and not in the possession of a car and/or would like to join a group? Join this Small-Group Gems of Alsace Tour from Colmar! In 8 hours you will see a lot while a professional guide shows you around the country side of Alsace region.

High season is considered May till October plus December, however nowadays almost year round, Colmar gets a stream of tourists on a daily basis. All year round there are events held in Colmar:

• March: Carnival
• May: Eco-bio Fair
• May-September: Folklore Evenings
• June: Music Festival Métis
• July: Alsatian Music and Wine Festival
• September: Jazz Festival
• October: Film Festival
• November: Book Fair
• December: Christmas Markets

On the particular Tuesday in July I visited Colmar, it was not as crowded as I expected ‘Little Venice’ to be, but crowded enough to annoy the boyfriend who hates crowds LOL Temperatures around 30°C. Summer school holidays in France usually last the whole months of July and August, traditionally most French people take time off from work in August.

The 5th leg of the annual bicycle race Tour de France 2019 went from Saint-Dié-des-Vosges to Colmar.

Christmas time is said to be magic in Colmar. The six (!) Christmas markets in Colmar attract lots of people; they are actually in the European Best Christmas Markets Top 10! Staying here around Christmas will be so super romantic! The ‘Magical World’ of Christmas markets in Colmar start on November 24 and last until December 29, 2022. You can book your Colmar Christmas Market Tour or stroll around yourself.

Lots of people visit Colmar as part of their journey while staying somewhere else in the area, as a day trip. This is fine; walk around for a few hours or half a day and you will be able to see Colmar’s main highlights. Nevertheless, ‘Little Venice’ may be quite small, it is actually only the southern edge of Colmar’s center. There is more to see, should you get the chance to stay a bit longer (see map below).

The benefit of spending the night in Colmar is being able to walk around town early in the morning or late at night, when the crowds of tourists are gone. What a bliss! Also, the old town is lit up at night by light sources after sunset on Fridays and Saturdays year-round, and every evening during major events such as the International Music Festival, Alsace Wine Fair and Christmas Markets.

Hotel Le Colombier is a really charming, small-scale hotel located in the Little Venice neighborhood. The tasteful rooms and suites are modern with traditional elements and include air conditioning, a minibar and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The private bathrooms come with a shower, free toiletries, slippers and bathrobes. On top of that excellent breakfast, 24-hour reception, bar and garden. Room prices start around EUR 124 per night.

In case hotel Le Colombier is full, consider staying at the lovely hotel Le Marechal . If this is beyond your budget, please take a look at Ibis Styles Colmar Centre or Ibis Styles Colmar Nord with pool (near airport).

This map includes places and spots mentioned in this article (and more). This one is ‘smartphone friendly’; you can easily use it via the Google Maps app. Click the icon at the top left to open the menu and see the categories. To adapt the map to your own preferences and interests, (de)select a category. Via Google Drive you can copy the map to your own My Google Maps account.

How to get to Colmar

The easiest and most flexible way to visit Colmar would be by car, either your own or a rental car. For rental cars, I am a big fan of Sunny Cars . Most Dutch professional travel agents use them and they are GOOD!

Sunny Cars is an all-inclusive, worry free rental concept with affordable, fair prices, great service and no unpleasant surprises upon pick up or drop off. Ideal, I use them all the time!

Flying into France? The airports closest to Colmar are:

• Aéroport de Colmar – Houssen (CMR) – tiny airport!
• Strasbourg airport (SXB)
• Euro airport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL)
• Epinal Mirecourt airport (EPL)
• Metz-Nancy Loirraine airport (ETZ)

The best parking option close to Colmar’s old town (max 150m) for now is Parking Saint-Josse at Rue Saint-Josse. Parking Saint-Josse is a proper, modern, roofed garage with at least six levels, indicating the number of free parking spots (max 487). There are street signs indicating whether the parking has free spots available or not (‘Ouvert’ means Free).

I found parking in Colmar rather cheap and easy. The first hour at Parking Saint-Josse is for free. After 1 hour (up to 1 hour and 15 min) the initial parking tariff is EUR 2.10 and EUR 0.20 for each following 15 min. The parking ticket payment machine inside accepts bank cards, coins and bank notes. If you would like to use your credit card (MasterCard, Visa, American Express) insert it upon entering the garage gate (instead of pushing the button for a paper ticket).

You may notice Parking de la Montagne Verte (Green Mountain) on the map too. It was re-opened as a new, modern garage with more than 700 parking spots in November 2019.

The most sustainable option of traveling to and around Colmar would be on foot, by bicycle or by public transport.

• Within Colmar, TRACE runs a bus network with frequent stops within town.
• The Südbaden bus goes between Colmar and Freiburg (Germany) several times a day.
• FlixBus goes from/to Freiburg (on the other side of the border in Germany).
• TER offers a developed train network throughout the Alsace region and beyond.

A replica of Colmar called ‘Tropical Colmar’ is located 40 km from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Colmar is pretty and charming but fairly crowded . You need to be a bit lucky on how busy it is on that particular day. You may want to try to avoid weekends, holidays, fairs, etc. unless you really want to be there then. The answer to the question whether or not you feel Colmar is worth visiting, depends on your personal taste. How important it is for you to see Colmar, how well you cope with crowded touristy places and how far will you have to travel for it? Colmar is a big hit on social media and it will not get less busy, trust me.

Personally, to be very honest with you, I am not a big fan of France in general, but being in the nearby Black Forest Area in Germany anyway, we decided to go and check out Colmar. I do not regret it and enjoyed it, as you hopefully notice from this article. However I would advise not to travel the world for it. Boyfriend said it was a waste of his time as he felt it was too crowded and small. Oops!

To conclude: up to you! Just hope this article will help you to get an impression of Colmar and that the practical tips will make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

We combined our visit to Colmar with visiting the Black Forest and Basel. Check out these articles to read more:

• What to do in the Black Forest, Germany’s largest forest area Schwarzwald?
• Picturesque Basel: tips for a city trip or as part of a Switzerland round trip

This article contains affiliate links to support this website. It does not cost you anything extra if you buy something after clicking on one of those links. Partner websites that I am affiliated with , reward me with a small commission for making useful connections between buyers and their service or product. This helps to cover the costs for this website. Consider it as a compliment for my work. For more information click  here .

Don’t want to order anything via these links but would like to support me to continue to create new content ? You can always buy me a glass of wine or take a look at my partner page . Thanks in advance & enjoy your next trip!

Last Updated on 11/24/2022 by Elisa Flitter Fever

Elisa Flitter Fever

Hello, I'm Elisa - travel blogger, passionate about beautiful destinations, writing, wine tasting and animals. Sharing info & tips like I do with my best friends. The travel blog that goes the extra mile. 70 countries & counting!

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Wat leuk Elisa, om iets over Colmar te lezen. De plaats was ons in afgelopen Tour de France al opgevallen.

Ja erg leuk stadje Christa, zeker een keer bezoeken als je daar in de buurt bent. Liefs!

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What to see in the Colmar Little Venice

Last Updated:  25 April 2018

At the heart of the Alsace Wine Route , Colmar is very well located and while it may not be the capital of Alsace , it remains one of its top tourist destinations. The Colmar Little Venice district in the old town gathers colourful half-timbered houses neatly lining cobblestone streets and walkways, set along a peaceful canal.

In the Krutenau district , the city gives way to the village atmosphere that is typical of traditional Alsace. Those with an affinity for half-timbered houses will once again be charmed by the sight of the district, which is adjoined by a stream – the Lauch – which earned it the name of the “ Little Venice of Alsace ”.

In reality, it would be more accurate to call it “ Little Bruges ” because, unlike in Venice, there is only one river serving the neighbourhood: the picturesque Lauch. The little 45 km long river runs from the Vosges and crosses the town of Guebwiller , before entering the Alsace Plain . It flows into the River Ill in the outskirts west of Colmar .

At the crossing of the Krutenau district, the Lauch was used by the market gardeners, fishmongers and tanners who passed through there in small, flat-bottomed boats.

A little discovery walk in the Colmar Little Venice

• Distance: a little over 1 kilometre
• Duration: approximately 1 hour

Start the walk at Place de l’Ancienne Douane. The fountain is from Bartholdi and represents  Lazare de Schwendi (1522-1583), a general of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor.

Follow the canal that borders rue des Tanneurs where tanners used to work and live.

Observe the tall half-timbered houses topped with attics where animal skins were put to dry.

Cross the bridge and turn right on Quai de la Poissonnerie.

Quai de la Poissonnerie

The first stop in the tour of the Little Venice of Colmar is the Quai de la Poissonnerie (Fishing Quay), accessible by a small bridge that crosses Rue des Tanneurs. There, fishermen sold fresh fish that had been caught in Colmar’s waters.

The brightly coloured, little half-timbered houses belonged to the members of the powerful fishing corporation.

Across the canal stands the Covered Market hall of Colmar (1865), one of the best of its kind in Alsace.

The Quai de la Poissonnerie is continued by the rue de la Poissonnerie .

The narrow street leads to Rue de Turenne, site of the old “ Krutenau ” (the fruit and vegetable market).

The Krutenau district

The little Krutenau district, beginning in Rue de Turenne , features a strong village atmosphere, and was once inhabited by the market gardeners corporation.

Admire the view from the nearest bridge: Pont de l’Abreuvoir .

Continue the tour by walking along Rue de la Herse.

From the past, Rue de la Herse has still kept intact a village atmosphere.

At the end of rue de la Herse, turn right at Passage de la Petite-Venise. You’ll walk along the boardwalk at the edge of the Lauch. In summer, otters can often be seen here!

The flat-bottomed boats that once cruised along the Lauch allowed market gardeners to display their fruits and vegetables.

Today, the small gondolier boats pay homage to this long-forgotten activity, giving Colmar a Venetian feel. You can board boat tours of the Little Venice district from underneath the Saint-Pierre Bridge . The boat tour is a wonderful opportunity to discover the string of beautifully restored houses dating from 1350 to 1609. We recommend the cruise by  Sweet Narcisse .

Pont Saint-Pierre

The stunning view of the district from the Saint-Pierre Bridge, to the far south of Little Venice, is one of the most photographed views of Colmar. Busloads of tourists stop here to allow visitors to admire the view of the river reflecting the old half-timbered houses.

At the Saint-Pierre Bridge, turn right and follow Saint Pierre Boulevard until the intersection with Rue du Manège. Take the road to the right until you reach Place des Six-Montagnes-Noires.

Place des Six Montagnes Noires

The square of Place des Six Montagnes Noires features the Roesselmann   fountain from sculptor Bartholdi (1888). The name of the square ( Six Black Mountains ) refers to an old inn that once bordered the square.

Continue walking on rue Saint-Jean.

Maison des Chevaliers de Saint-Jean

At number 3 stands the St. John’s Knights House (Maison des Chevaliers de Saint-Jean) with its refined galleries evoking an Italian palazzo.

Reach Place du marché aux fruits.

Place du marché aux fruits

The square is bordered by two major buildings:

• the Kern house, a beautiful Renaissance edifice built in 1594 with a fine Dutch gable.
• the Regional Court (Tribunal de Grande Instance), a Neo-Classical building (1754-1771).

The Old Customs House is at the other end of the square. Reach rue des Marchands and continue exploring the old town of Colmar around the Pfister House!

To find out more about the Colmar Little Venice district

• Check out the website of the Tourist Office of Colmar .
• Read more about the Colmar Little Venice on our French blog !
• The barge cruise in the Little Venice  by Sweet Narcisse.

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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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I and my wife saw the Colmar’s photos. They were dreamy for us. I can’t stop imagining the town even before going to sleep at night and after waking up in the morning. We are really sad not able to visit such a dreamy town. We live in Mehrshahr, Karaj in Iran. My town is also beautiful but Colmar is something else. Thank you for your nice photos!

Thank you for taking the time to write a little feedback on Colmar! Have a pleasant day and hope to see you soon on our website!

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24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

A Blog About Life & Travel in France

2 Days in Colmar: The Perfect Itinerary (from a Local)

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 20 February 2024
• 14 December 2023

Colmar, a town famous for its charming half-timbered houses and enchanting canals, is one of the most captivating destinations in Alsace.

When I moved to Alsace in 2019, Colmar was among the first places I visited. And, since that initial visit, I’ve come back more times than I can count.

I’ve spent countless hours exploring the museums, streets, and markets.

In this post, I’ve put together the ultimate 2 days in Colmar itinerary. There are popular sites so you can get to know the city and some lesser-known spots.

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 .

2 Days in Colmar Overview

If you’re short on time, here is an overview of my helpful guide and a printable itinerary.

• Day 1: Old Town, Maison Pfister, Covered Market, Unterlinden Museum, Parc du Champ de Mars, Gondola Ride
• Day 2: Little Venice, Bartholdi Museum, La Maison des Têtes, Alsace Wine Route

Free Colmar in Two Days Guide

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

Colmar Itinerary: Day 1

Wander around the old town.

There’s no better way to start your trip than by wandering around the picturesque streets of Colmar’s old town.

Stop by Place de l’Ancienne Douane to see the Old Custom House and admire the beautiful architecture.

But my favorite street in this part of Colmar was Grand Rue. I loved the lively atmosphere and the small boutiques.

It’s also where you’ll find the infamous Maison dite “au Pèlerin,” one of the most Instagram-worthy houses in town. I found it particularly stunning during Colmar’s Christmas market.

After you’ve strolled up and down Grand Rue, head to Rue de l’Église. Here you’ll have the best view of Saint-Martin’s Church, a stunning Gothic-style church from the 14th century.

If you have time, I recommend touring the inside. I thought it was as beautiful as the outside.

Visit Maison Pfister

Maison Pfister is one of the most famous buildings in Colmar.

It was built in the 16th century for Ludwig Scherer. From there it changed hands several times before being bought by François Jean Pfister in the mid-19th century.

Its standout features include the overhanging corner bay windows and the artwork etched into the wooden panels.

Even though you can’t explore the inside, I still enjoyed the beautiful architecture and the elaborate frescoes.

Address : 11 Rue des Marchands

Stop by the Covered Market

Colmar’s Marché Couvert or Covered Market was built in 1865, and, since then, it has been a local favorite for its fresh produce, cheese, and wine.

Stop by one of the food stands for a snack or grab some picnic supplies for later.

I must have visited this market more than a dozen times over the years.

While I love the fresh produce, nothing beats the tarte flambée from the little restaurant located at the back. It’s called La Terrasse du Marché and they are always full. If you want to stop by for lunch, get there early or make a reservation .

Address : 13 Rue des Écoles

Discover the Unterlinden Museum

If you’re into art, then the Unterlinden Museum is a must-visit in Colmar . This former convent-turned-museum houses an impressive collection of artworks from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Its most famous piece is the Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald. And, of the exhibits, I saw during my visit it was, undoubtedly, the most impressive.

The museum also has a small courtyard where you can relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Admission : €13

Address : Place des Unterlinden

Relax in the Parc du Champ de Mars

Parc du Champ de Mars is the perfect spot to take a break. This beautiful public park is located just outside Colmar’s city center.

I’ve been to Parc du Champ Mars dozens of times, and it’s never crowded. I’ve only seen locals enjoying a picnic or tourists passing by on their way to the train station.

During the high season, Colmar can get very busy, so I liked knowing I could come here for a breath of fresh air.

Go on a Gondola Ride

One of the most unique experiences I had in Colmar was taking a gondola ride through the Little Venice area.

This charming neighborhood is lined with colorful half-timbered houses and small winding canals, like those in Venice, Italy.

There are tons of tours available, but I booked mine with Sweet Narcisse .

The gondolas are operated by local guides, so you know you’re getting first-hand information.

I loved the stories that my guide shared, particularly about the architecture and why the houses are so colorful. It was a fun and relaxing way to visit Colmar.

Admission : €8

Helpful Tip : Tours last about 25 minutes.

Colmar Itinerary: Day 2

Watch the sunrise over little venice.

If there’s one thing Colmar is known for its colorful half-timbered houses . And the best place to see them is the Little Venice district at sunrise.

On one of my many weekends in Colmar, I woke up early and headed straight for Quai de la Poissonnerie.

The streets were empty, and the sun’s glow lit up the canals and houses in a beautiful golden light. It was magical.

Helpful Tip : The bridge on Rue de Turenne is another great spot to watch the sunrise.

Explore the Bartholdi Museum

Another must-visit museum in Colmar is the Bartholdi Museum. It’s dedicated to the life and works of famous sculptor, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi.

Aside from learning about his most famous work – the Statue of Liberty, you’ll also get to see some of his other sculptures, drawings, and paintings.

One of the most interesting parts of the visit, for me at least, was the house itself. This is where Bartholdi was born, and I loved seeing what life was like during his time.

Admission : €5

Address : 30 Rue des Marchands

Admire La Maison des Têtes

La Maison des Têtes or “House of Heads” is one of the most striking buildings in Colmar. It’s named after the heads that decorate its façade – over 100 in total.

Built in the early 1600s, it has a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

It was once nothing more than a mansion, but now, it’s home to a luxury hotel, a traditional brasserie, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Of the architecturally interesting buildings I’ve seen in Alsace , La Maison des Têtes was by far the most unique.

Address : 19 Rue des Têtes

Explore the Alsace Wine Route

The activities I mentioned above shouldn’t take long, which means you’ll have plenty of time to explore the infamous Alsace Wine Route .

The route stretches over 170 kilometers (105 miles) and passes through some of the most picturesque villages in France. You can join a tour, travel by train, walk, or rent a car or bike.

Each village has its charm and unique atmosphere, and there are quite a few near Colmar that are worth adding to your itinerary.

My two favorites are Turckheim and Eguisheim.

Both are stunningly beautiful and are full of things to do. I loved walking around Turckheim, particularly the Jardin de la Ville and enjoyed hiking to Eguisheim’s three castles .

Turckheim is easily accessible via train. But if you want to go to Eguisheim you’ll have to take a taxi, rent a car, or go on a tour . You can even rent a bike and visit both. That’s what I did.

Helpful Tip : If you want to rent a bike, the two best places in Colmar are Lokabike Colmar and Colmar Cycling – Vélodocteurs .

Where to Stay

There are tons of fantastic places to stay in Colmar. But, for this itinerary, I recommend staying somewhere central, so you don’t waste time getting to and from your hotel.

The Little Venice district and the Old Town are the two best areas for short stays. Below is a list of hotels that I recommend.

✓ Hotel Restaurant Le Maréchal – Les Collectionneurs – This four-star hotel is in the heart of Little Venice. The breakfast is incredible and the staff are helpful. You can even request a room that looks out onto the canal.

✓ Hotel Saint-Martin – This was the best hotel I stayed at in Colmar. It’s located in the Old Town, so you’ll be close to everything. The breakfast is delicious and the rooms are cozy.

✓ Hotel Le Colombier Suites – Located in Little Venice, the rooms are immaculate and the staff are very helpful. They even have air-conditioning in the summer.

Where to Eat

There are tons of fantastic places to eat in Colmar. Here are a few restaurants that I recommend you try while you’re here.

✓ Wistub de la Petite Venise – A traditional restaurant with an upscale feel. The food is delicious and the setting is rustic.

✓ Bistrot des Lavandières – A cozy restaurant that serves local dishes made with local products. Of the places I’ve eaten at in Colmar, this was my favorite.

✓ Brasserie des Tanneurs – This is one of the most famous traditional Alsatian restaurants in town. The food is tasty, and the interior is inviting.

Helpful Tip : Restaurants in Colmar fill up fast, so I recommend making reservations at least the day before.

Conclusion: Colmar 2-Day Itinerary

A two-day trip to Colmar offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine.

This little Alsatian town is one of the most picturesque I’ve visited. From its cobblestone streets to its winding canals, it really does look like something from a fairytale.

Now that you know how to organize your weekend in Colmar, it’s time to start planning your trip. And why not start with booking your tickets? Here are a few websites that I recommend , specifically for traveling in France.

Read More Articles About France

I hope you enjoyed my post and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.

• Strasbourg to Colmar: How to Get There (from a Local)
• 4 Days in Alsace: The Perfect Itinerary (from a Local)
• 11 Best Things to Do in Kaysersberg, France

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.