Discover the enchanting city of Colmar with our travel guide, featuring the best of Alsatian culture, picturesque canals of Little Venice, historic architecture, and renowned wine routes. Dive into Colmar's rich history, indulge in its culinary delights, and explore the surrounding castles for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Alsace.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Colmar, France, depends on what you're looking for in your visit. Colmar is enchanting year-round, but each season offers a unique experience:
Spring (March to May)
Weather: Mild and increasingly warm, with nature coming to life. It's a beautiful time to see the flowers bloom, especially around the canals in La Petite Venise (Little Venice).
Crowds: Fewer than in summer, making it a good time to explore the town's charm without the peak season crowds.
Summer (June to August)
Weather: Warm and sunny, ideal for strolling through the old town and enjoying outdoor dining.
Highlights: This is the time for the vibrant Colmar International Music Festival and the wine festivals in nearby villages, celebrating Alsace's rich viticulture.
Crowds: The busiest season, with tourists drawn to the town's picturesque streets and the surrounding vineyards.
Autumn (September to November)
Weather: Cooler, with autumn colors providing a beautiful backdrop to the half-timbered houses.
Highlights: The grape harvest season in the Alsace wine region brings special wine-tasting events and the ambiance of the vineyards is particularly magical.
Crowds: Less crowded than summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
Winter (December to February)
Weather: Cold, sometimes snowy, adding a fairy-tale-like atmosphere to the town, especially with holiday decorations.
Highlights: Colmar's Christmas markets are among the most charming in France, with festive lights, decorations, and seasonal treats filling the old town.
Crowds: Despite the cold, the Christmas markets attract many visitors, making early December a popular time.
Each season in Colmar offers its own charm, from the festive winter markets to the lush vineyards in autumn. Your choice might depend on whether you prefer cozy, winter charm or the lively, colorful streets of summer.
Getting to Colmar and Getting Around Colmar
Getting to Colmar
By Air:
The nearest major airport to Colmar is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, located about 45 minutes away by car. It serves numerous international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or train to Colmar, or rent a car.
By Train:
Colmar is well-connected by train, with direct TGV (high-speed train) and TER (regional train) services from major French cities like Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon. The journey from Paris to Colmar by TGV takes about 2.5 hours.
By Car:
Colmar is accessible via the A35 motorway, which runs north-south through Alsace, and the east-west A36 motorway. Driving in Alsace offers scenic views, especially along the Alsace Wine Route.
By Bus:
Regular bus services connect Colmar with other towns and cities in the region. While less frequent than train services, buses can be a cost-effective travel option.
Getting Around Colmar
On Foot:
Colmar’s historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal to explore on foot. Major attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other.
By Bicycle:
Colmar is bike-friendly, with several designated bike paths and lanes. You can rent a bike to explore the city and the surrounding vineyards and villages.
Public Transportation:
While the city center is easily navigable on foot, Colmar's public bus system, TRACE, can be useful for reaching destinations outside the center or for those with limited mobility.
Tourist Train:
For a unique perspective of the city, consider taking the tourist train. It offers guided tours around the main sights, providing historical insights and allowing you to see the highlights without walking.
Car Rental:
Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the wider Alsace region, especially the picturesque villages along the Wine Route. However, parking in the city center can be challenging during peak times.
Boat Trips:
In the Little Venice area, you can take a boat trip along the canals to see the charming half-timbered houses and floral displays from the water.
Colmar’s blend of historical charm and modern accessibility makes it a joy to explore, whether you’re meandering through its fairy-tale streets on foot, cycling through the Alsace countryside, or venturing further afield by car or public transport.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Colmar
Top 18 Attractions
Colmar, nestled in the Alsace region of France, is famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and as a gateway to the Alsace Wine Route. Here are some of the top attractions in Colmar:
La Petite Venise (Little Venice): A picturesque district characterized by winding canals and traditional half-timbered houses, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
Colmar's Old Town: The heart of the city, with cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, showcasing a blend of Germanic and French architectural styles.
Pfister House (Maison Pfister): An emblematic building of Colmar, known for its Renaissance architecture, ornate frescoes, and wooden gallery. It's one of the most photographed spots in the town.
Schwendi Fountain: Located in Place Schwendi, this fountain features a statue of Lazarus von Schwendi, a historical figure who, according to legend, introduced Tokaji wine from Hungary to Alsace. The surrounding square is vibrant, lined with cafes and shops.
House of Heads (Maison des Têtes): A Renaissance building adorned with 106 grotesque heads and a statue of Bartholdi’s "Vigneron."
Old Customs House (Koïfhus): The oldest public building in Colmar, which served as a warehouse and customs office, now hosts art exhibitions and craft markets.
Colmar's Christmas Markets: During the festive season, Colmar transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas markets spread across several locations, offering traditional crafts, local delicacies, and holiday cheer.
Covered Market (Marché Couvert): Set in a historic building beside Little Venice, offering fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and other Alsatian specialties.
Alsace Wine Route: While not located in Colmar itself, the Alsace Wine Route starts near the town and is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. It winds through picturesque vineyards and quaint villages, offering opportunities for wine tastings and exploring the region's viticultural heritage.
Parc du Champ de Mars: A spacious and serene park in the heart of Colmar, ideal for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors, with a playground for children and beautiful views of the surrounding architecture.
Saint-Martin Collegiate Church: A magnificent example of Gothic architecture with noteworthy stained glass windows and a towering nave.
Dominican Church: A 13th-century church housing the "Madonna of the Rose Bush," a masterpiece by Martin Schongauer.
Saint-Matthews Protestant Church: A former Franciscan church that now serves as a Protestant place of worship, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural elements.
Unterlinden Museum: A renowned art museum housed in a 13th-century convent, featuring the Isenheim Altarpiece and a wide array of Upper Rhine art.
Bartholdi Museum: Dedicated to Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, this museum is located in his birthplace and showcases his sculptures and models.
Hansi Museum: This museum is dedicated to the work of Hansi, a pseudonym for Jean-Jacques Waltz, an Alsatian artist who is best known for his satirical illustrations of Alsatian life.
Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet): A delightful museum showcasing a vast collection of toys from various periods, including antique dolls, model trains, and more, appealing to both children and adults.
The Natural History and Ethnography Museum: Offers insights into the natural world and human cultures, with diverse collections ranging from local wildlife to artifacts from various cultures around the globe.
Top 10 Activities
Colmar, with its enchanting Alsatian charm, offers a variety of activities that go beyond simply visiting its attractions. Here are some top activities to immerse yourself in the local culture and scenery:
Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the vineyards surrounding Colmar and enjoy tastings of local Alsace wines like Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris at various wineries and wine cellars.
Boat Rides in La Petite Venise: Take a leisurely boat ride along the canals of the Little Venice area to appreciate the picturesque half-timbered houses and floral displays from the water.
Culinary Experiences: Indulge in Alsatian gastronomy by trying local specialties at traditional winstubs, participating in cooking classes, or visiting the covered market for fresh, local produce.
Cycling Through the Vineyards: Rent a bike and explore the scenic Alsace Wine Route and the surrounding countryside, offering breathtaking views and charming village stops.
Attend Local Festivals: Depending on the season of your visit, immerse yourself in local culture by attending festivals such as the Colmar Wine Fair, the Christmas Markets, or the Easter Markets.
Stroll Through the Old Town: Wander through Colmar's historic streets, enjoying the vibrant flower displays, unique shops, and artisanal craft stores.
Visit Artisanal Shops: Discover local crafts and products in the many artisanal shops, from pottery and textiles to traditional Alsatian Christmas decorations.
Evening Walks by the Illuminated Landmarks: Experience the magic of Colmar at night when landmarks like the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church and the Pfister House are beautifully illuminated.
Photography Tours: Capture the beauty of Colmar's architecture, canals, and streetscapes on a photography tour or a self-guided walk, finding the perfect angles of the most picturesque spots.
Relax in the Parks: Take a break in one of Colmar's green spaces like the Parc du Champ de Mars, ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility.
Best Shopping
Colmar, with its charming blend of French and German influences, offers a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional Alsatian crafts to modern boutiques. Here's a guide to the best shopping in Colmar:
Rue des Marchands and Grand'Rue
What to Find: These central streets in Colmar's historic heart are lined with shops offering Alsatian pottery, handcrafted textiles, and local delicacies like foie gras and kougelhopf. It's also where you'll find beautiful souvenirs and Christmas decorations, particularly during the festive season.
La Petite Venise
What to Find: In this picturesque area, you'll discover small boutiques and artisanal shops selling unique jewelry, art, and crafts that make perfect gifts or mementos of your trip to Colmar.
Marché Couvert de Colmar
What to Find: Located near La Petite Venise, this indoor market is the go-to place for fresh, local produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods. It's ideal for food enthusiasts looking to sample the flavors of Alsace.
Rue des Clefs and Rue des Têtes
What to Find: These streets are more commercial and offer a mix of international brands and local shops, where you can find clothing, accessories, and homewares.
Quartier des Tanneurs
What to Find: Known for its beautifully restored half-timbered houses, this district offers a more relaxed shopping experience, with boutiques set in historic buildings selling fashion, decor, and regional specialties.
Artisanal Chocolate and Pastry Shops
What to Find: Colmar is home to several exquisite chocolatiers and patisseries, where you can indulge in handmade chocolates, pastries, and the famous Alsace macarons.
Wine Shops
What to Find: No visit to Colmar would be complete without exploring its wine shops. Many offer tastings and sell bottles from local vineyards, perfect for taking home a taste of the Alsace wine region.
Antiques and Brocantes
What to Find: For those interested in antiques and vintage finds, Colmar has several shops and occasional flea markets where you can hunt for unique pieces, from furniture to collectibles.
Shopping in Colmar is as much about the experience as it is about the purchases. Wandering through its historic streets, you'll find a blend of traditional and modern, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of this Alsatian gem.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Colmar may have a serene and picturesque daytime ambiance, but the city also offers a variety of entertainment and nightlife options that cater to different tastes. Here's what you can expect when the sun sets over this charming Alsatian town:
Wine Bars and Traditional Winstubs
Colmar, being in the heart of the Alsace wine region, boasts several cozy wine bars and traditional winstubs where you can enjoy local wines like Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Gourmet Dining and Alsatian Cuisine
The city's culinary scene comes alive at night, with restaurants serving both traditional Alsatian dishes and international cuisine. For a memorable experience, consider dining at one of Colmar's Michelin-starred establishments.
Cultural Performances and Concerts
The Unterlinden Museum and other cultural venues in Colmar occasionally host evening concerts, performances, and special events, providing a sophisticated entertainment option.
Bars and Pubs
For a more casual night out, Colmar has a selection of bars and pubs offering everything from craft beers and cocktails to live music nights, particularly around the center and in La Petite Venise.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Depending on the time of year, Colmar hosts various festivals and events that extend into the evening, such as the Colmar International Festival, the Wine Festival in August, and the enchanting Christmas markets in December.
Strolls Along the Illuminated Streets
An evening walk through Colmar, especially around La Petite Venise and the historic center, can be quite magical, with the half-timbered houses and landmarks beautifully illuminated.
Cinemas and Theaters
For movie enthusiasts, Colmar has cinemas showing a mix of international blockbusters and independent films. The city also has theaters presenting a range of plays and shows.
Night Markets
During summer and the festive season, night markets offer a delightful opportunity to shop for crafts, sample street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
While Colmar's nightlife might not be as vibrant as that of larger cities, it offers a pleasant and varied array of options that reflect the city's cultural richness and gastronomic heritage, providing enjoyable evenings for visitors and locals alike.
Local Cuisine
Colmar, nestled in the heart of Alsace, boasts a rich food scene that mirrors the region's blend of French and German culinary traditions. Here's a closer look at what makes Colmar a gastronomic delight:
Alsatian Specialties
Colmar is the perfect place to indulge in Alsatian cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Signature dishes include tarte flambée (flammekueche), a thin-crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon; choucroute garnie, a lavish dish of sauerkraut served with assorted meats and sausages; and baeckeoffe, a slow-cooked casserole of meats, potatoes, and vegetables marinated in white wine.
Winstubs
The quintessential dining experience in Colmar is at a winstub, a traditional Alsatian tavern, where you can enjoy local dishes in a cozy, convivial setting. These establishments often feature rustic interiors with wood-paneling and folkloric decorations, adding to the authentic dining experience.
Michelin-starred Restaurants
For those seeking a gourmet experience, Colmar is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants where chefs creatively reinterpret Alsatian cuisine using modern techniques and local, seasonal ingredients, accompanied by an exquisite selection of Alsace wines.
Wine Bars
Given its location on the Alsace Wine Route, Colmar boasts numerous wine bars where enthusiasts can sample the region's renowned varietals, such as Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris. These venues often offer wine tastings and pairings with local cheeses and charcuterie.
Market and Street Food
The Colmar Covered Market and outdoor markets present an opportunity to taste Alsace's rich agricultural produce. Visitors can sample local cheeses, meats, pastries, and seasonal specialties. Street food stands, particularly during festivals and markets, offer treats like tarte flambée, pretzels, and choucroute.
Patisseries and Bakeries
Colmar's bakeries and patisseries are a testament to the region's baking tradition, offering delights such as kougelhopf (a brioche-like cake), bredele (Christmas cookies), and a variety of artisanal bread and pastries.
Seasonal and Festive Foods
Visiting Colmar during different seasons and festivals allows for the enjoyment of seasonal delicacies. The Christmas markets, for example, are famous for vin chaud (mulled wine), gingerbread, and other festive treats.
International Cuisine
Reflecting its status as a tourist hub and its diverse population, Colmar also offers a range of international dining options, from Italian and Asian restaurants to contemporary cafes serving global dishes.
The food scene in Colmar is a vibrant expression of Alsace's culinary heritage, offering a blend of traditional flavors and contemporary dining experiences. Whether you're exploring the historic winstubs, savoring gourmet cuisine, or enjoying the casual fare at markets, Colmar promises a rich gastronomic journey.
Accommodations
When visiting Colmar, choosing the right area to stay can significantly enhance your experience. The town is renowned for its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and proximity to the Alsace wine region. Here are some of the best areas to consider for your stay:
Old Town (Centre-Ville)
Characteristics: The heart of Colmar, featuring cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and landmarks like the Maison Pfister, the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, and the Unterlinden Museum.
Best For: Those looking to immerse themselves in the town's rich history and architecture, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
Characteristics: A charming area known for its canals, reminiscent of Venice, Italy. It's filled with beautiful old houses, flower-lined bridges, and quaint cafes.
Best For: Romantic getaways and picturesque settings, ideal for photographers and couples.
Quartier Saint-Léon
Characteristics: A quieter, more residential area within walking distance of the town center, offering a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to major attractions.
Best For: Families and those seeking a quieter stay without being too far from the town's main sights.
Quartier des Maraîchers
Characteristics: This area, whose name translates to "Market Gardeners' District," is slightly off the beaten path but still within easy reach of the Old Town. It's known for its traditional Alsatian houses and local vibe.
Best For: Travelers interested in experiencing local life in Colmar and those looking for more spacious accommodation options like apartments.
Around Colmar Train Station
Characteristics: Convenient for those arriving by train, this area offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to mid-range, and is just a short walk or tram ride from the Old Town.
Best For: Visitors planning day trips to nearby towns and vineyards or those needing easy access to public transport.
Travel Tips
Plan Your Visit Around Events: Time your visit to coincide with Colmar's vibrant events, like the Christmas Markets or the Colmar International Festival, for added excitement.
Stay Near the Old Town: Opt for accommodations close to the Old Town to easily access Colmar's key attractions, dining, and picturesque canals.
Explore Lesser-Known Areas: Venture beyond the main tourist spots to discover local neighborhoods like Quartier des Maraîchers for a more authentic experience.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Don't miss Alsace's unique dishes such as tarte flambée and choucroute garnie, best enjoyed in a traditional winstub.
Day Trips to Villages and Vineyards: Use Colmar as a base to explore nearby charming villages and vineyards along the Alsace Wine Route.
Visit the Markets: Experience local life and sample regional products at the Colmar Covered Market and outdoor markets.
Respect Local Customs: Show appreciation for Alsace's distinct identity and traditions to enrich your interactions.
Pack for Variable Weather: Bring layered clothing to adapt to Colmar's changing weather, especially during transitional seasons.
Consider a Guided Tour: Join a walking or boat tour for deeper insights into Colmar's rich history and architecture.
Mind Opening Hours: Note that some local shops and restaurants may close early or take extended lunch breaks, especially outside tourist areas.
Colmar Pass: The Colmar Pass offers convenient access to the city's top attractions and tours, providing visitors with discounted entries and additional benefits, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore Colmar's rich cultural offerings efficiently.
Exploring castles near Colmar: Haut-Koenigsbourg, Château du Hohlandsbourg, and others, offers a captivating journey through Alsace's medieval history and stunning landscapes, all within a short drive from the city.
