tours in colmar france

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Colmar Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Colmar. We've got 129 adventures going to Colmar, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 19 days. The most popular month to go is July, which has the largest number of tour departures.

129 Colmar tour packages with 119 reviews

Bicycling the Vineyards of Alsace

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Charms of Burgundy and Alsace

Dreaming of France of Alsace

• River Cruise
• Christmas & New Year

Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine - VICTOR HUGO

Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise) - LAFAYETTE

• In-depth Cultural

Tailor-Made Private Germany Tour to Bavaria with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Wine tasting

Grand Bicycling Tour of Alsace and the Black Forest

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Excellent 18 days itineraries!

Alsace on E-bikes guided cycling tour

The Majestic Rhine (Start Frankfurt, End Zurich)

Was an outstanding cruise. Very well organized and we got exactly out of it what we wanted. Just the right mix of activity with rest.

The Majestic Rhine (Start Frankfurt, End Basel)

Romantic Rhine for Wine Lovers (Northbound)

Romantic Rhine for Wine Lovers (Southbound)

• Bike and Barge

Deutschland: Main und Rhein mit dem Rad & Schiff

Traditional Europe (End London, 19 Days)

It exceeded our expectations. Steve encouraged us to take the extra excursions & they were well worth the added cost. Our driver Tonino was amazing - especially in Rome & Paris traffic.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Colmar Tours

Mimi was great. Only thing I would change is a better break about half way through. The older people were exhausted by the end.

It exceeded our expectations. Steve encouraged us to take the extra excursions & they were well worth the added cost. Our driver Tonino was amazing - especially in Rome & Paris traffic.

• to Europe (5)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• 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

• Tea Rooms, Bars and Cafés
• Children & families
• Shopping & crafts

• Visitors - Social Wall
• Fashion Shooting

• 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

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

• Theme parks
• Animal parks
• The castles

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

• Contemporary art
• Public Libraries

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

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

• Your Personal Road Book
• Tourism and disability

88 pages of tips

The colmar 2024 destination guide.

From 28th March to 21st April

Colmar celebrates spring.

From 5 to 14 July 2024

The colmar international festival 2024.

Top Things to See  in Colmar

Suggested places to visit.

Little Venice

Le quai de la Poissonnerie

The Pfister house

The covered market

Saint Martin Church

The Koïfhus (former customs house)

Colmar museums.

Unterlinden Museum

The prestigious art museum of Colmar

Dominicains heritage library and museum

All those who are curious, lovers of architecture and books must discover the Dominican Library of Colmar. Tips : the entry is free and you can take a walk in the magnificent cloister.

Bartholdi Museum

The creator of the statue of liberty is native from Colmar and he has a museum dedicated to him in his family house

The toy museum

For the families, the geeks and the nostalgics

The Hansi village and its museum

Come in and discover the city of Colmar in the lifetime of the famous artist Jean-Jacques Waltz, so called "Hansi".

The dominican Chrurch

Since 1973 the Dominican Church owns the masterpiece of Martin Schongauer, Madonna of the Rose Bush

Natural history and ethnography Museum

the Colmar Museum of Natural History and Ethnography presents rich collections of regional and exotic naturalized animals, precious minerals. extraordinary fossils of prehistoric animals found in the region, rare ethnographic objectsfrom China, Latin America, Africa and an important collection of ancient Egypt with mummies.

Colmar Pocket Fighting Memorial Museum - Winter 1944/45

This Museum and Memorial, set up in Turckheim, a medieval city, and housed in the vaulted basement of the former presbytery, relates the two months of fierce fighting in the vicinity of Colmar during the harsh winter of 1944-1945.

The André Malraux Contemporary Art space

Free entry / 5 exhibitions per year

bloggers stories about Colmar

Discover colmar, france with 14 must-do things.

Colmar, situated in the northeastern part of France’s Alsace region, is a charming little town that captivates visitors with its picturesque beauty and rich history. With its well-preserved medieval old town and stunning blend of German and French architectural styles , Colmar is a must-visit destination for those wanting to explore a picture-perfect Atlassian town .

27 ideas to visit Colmar in Alsace – Things to do, see and taste

A visit to Colmar is a must-stop while spending a weekend in Alsace. Its reputation as a pretty town is firmly established, and frankly, it is completely well-deserved! It’s a true picture-postcard town, where it’s extremely pleasant to wander around. I don’t believe that I know one single person who didn’t fall under the spell of Colmar! As for me, I can’t get enough of it, even if I have lived there and that I have explored it countless times with friends visiting it for the first time.

Things to do in Colmar and Eguisheim: France’s fairytale villages

I was drawn to Colmar after hearing stories and seeing photos from other bloggers that painted a portrait of a picture-perfect town that couldn’t fail to charm (thanks Erin and Simon for the tip!). It’s in the Alsace region of France, right next to Germany, and you can see the German influence everywhere, from the architecture to the pretzel-filled menus. It would be easy to think you’re in Bavaria, save for the stylish window shutters and macaroon-filled bakeries that add a distinctive French touch.

Colmar travel guide / Colmar- More than just a Pretty Place

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

Colmar: France’s fairytale town

Images of Colmar published on social networks

• Saint-Émilion
• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• French Riviera
• Hauts de France
• Île-de-France
• Carcassonne
• Montpellier
• Loire Valley
• Aix-en-Provence
• Rhône-Alpes

• Christmas Markets

• Multi-regional

• Food & Wine

• Exclusive Travel

• Arts & Crafts

• Shore Excursions

• Sightseeing

• Battlefields

• Walking Tours

• Special Offers
• Cherbourg-en-Cotentin

Atlantic Coast

• La Rochelle
• Le Verdon-sur-Mer

Mediterranean

• Port-Vendres
• Sanary-sur-Mer
• Saint-Tropez
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• Shared Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-Day Tours
• Shore excursions

15 trips match your search criteria

• 0 - 3 hours
• 750 - 1000€

Authentic Alsace Villages tour : A half-day Cultural Experience from Colmar

Alsace Wine Tour from Colmar: A half-day Vineyard Excursion

Alsace Wine Tour from Colmar: A full day Vineyard Exploration

Eguisheim, Riquewihr & Haut Koenigsbourg – An Alsace Journey from Colmar

Alsace Grands Crus Wines from Colmar: A Signature Tasting Tour

Alsace Villages & Wine Tour from Colmar: A Private Journey & Tasting

Eguisheim, Riquewihr & Haut Koenigsbourg - A Private Cultural Excursion

Uncover Colmar's Rich History & Culture: Private Walking Tour

Freiburg & The Black Forest: A Scenic Private Adventure from Colmar

Taste of Alsace: Private Food & Wine Tour in Colmar

WWII Alsace Memorial Sights Tour : A Solemn Tribute

Alsace Breweries & Local Delicacies Tour : A Flavorful Adventure

Learn more about colmar.

Unveiling Colmar's Magic: Book Tours from Your Charming French Base

Explore Colmar, a captivating blend of French and German charm. Immerse yourself in fairytale half-timbered houses, wander historic streets, and discover the region's renowned wines.

Unforgettable Colmar Tours:

Small Group & Private Tours:  Explore Colmar your way - choose guided tours or explore at your own pace with private options.

Alsace Landmarks:  Discover iconic sights like Maison des Têtes and Pfister House, all within easy reach of Colmar.

Wine & Foodie Tours:  Embark on Alsace wine tours , savor local delicacies, and delve into the region's culinary heritage.

Christmas Magic:  Experience the charm of Colmar's Christmas markets with our festive guided tours (available seasonally).

Beyond Colmar:

Day Trips & Village Explorations:   Venture beyond Colmar's borders and discover charming villages like Kaysersberg and Riquewihr.

Vosges Mountains:  Explore the nearby Vosges Mountains, famed for Munster cheese production and scenic drives on the Route des Crêtes.

Planning Your Colmar Getaway:

Ideal Visit:  Spring or fall offers mild weather and manageable crowds. Getting Around: Colmar is pedestrian-friendly, but tours are perfect for exploring surrounding areas.

Languages:  All small group tours are conducted in English, other languages available for private tours on request.

Foodie Paradise:   Savor Alsatian specialties like tarte flambée and baeckeoffe.

Book your Colmar tour today and unlock the magic of this captivating French town!

How do you get from Paris to Colmar?

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What to do in one day in colmar: a perfect itinerary.

Do you fancy visiting one of the most beautiful towns in Europe? With just one day in Colmar, you’ll be able to 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

How to Get to Colmar

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.

How to Get Around Colmar

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

Top Tips for Visiting Colmar, France

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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Colmar Walking Tour

Home » Europe » France » Colmar Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Jul. 1st, 2023 · Updated Apr. 3rd, 2024

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Colmar is a beautiful town in Alsace with many sights and quaint neighbourhoods, best explored on a walking tour.

Page Contents:

This walking tour starts from the Collégiale St-Martin, or St Martin’s Church, in the centre of Colmar. There are several car parks near the center, or you can take the train. On the train Colmar is only 2hr20 from Paris, 30 minutes from Strasbourg, 45 minutes from Basel and 2 hours from Zurich. The train station is just 15 minutes walk away from the centre of Colmar.

Colmar Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Colmar Walking Tour

• Colmar gets busy in the summer holidays and in December when the Christmas market occupies the main square.
• Colmar is on the Alsatian Wine Route and also has delicious Alsatian cuisine (think a blend of French and German)
• Make dinner reservations in advance, especially in the summer season and sunny weekends.
• Alsatian cuisine includes Choucroute (sauerkraut), Tarte Flambée (flammkuchen, similar to pizza) and Baeckeoffe (a meat casserole). There are of course also delicious local wines, such as Riesling, Muscat and Pinot Gris.

For more walking tours and hikes, see our France Hiking Page .

Top Sights in Colmar

On this self-guided walking tour you’ll see the main sights and attractions of Colmar. Up to one day is the perfect amount of time to spend in Colmar. If you’re just walking around, half a day is enough, while if you want to visit the museums then allow a full day. It also makes a fine base for exploring the surrounding cute towns on the Alsace Wine Route.

• Collégiale St-Martin
• Old Town & Rue des Marchands
• Petite Venise
• Covered Market
• Tanner’s District
• Église des Dominicains
• Musée d’Unterlinden

On this walking tour of Colmar you’ll also pass other sights such as the Musée Bartholdi, Maison des Têtes and the Place de l’Ancienne Douane (Old Custom’s House).

Colmar Walking Tour Route

This walking tour starts from Collégiale St-Martin, the main church in the center of Colmar.

1. Collégiale St-Martin

Key Information: Open Tue-Fri 8:15am-5:45pm, Sat 10am-5:45pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Closed to visitors during services.

The Collégiale St-Martin (or Saint-Martin Collegiate Church) is one of the most impressive religious buildings in Colmar. The church dates back to the 13th century and features Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It was a cathedral at one point, but only for 10 years during the French Revolution. Don’t miss the large Baroque organ and the outer walls, constructed from locally quarried pink limestone.

Directions: Leave the church square at the southeast corner, down a cute narrow street.

At the corner on your right you’ll see the Maison Pfister . This is one of the very old, wonderfully restored houses in Colmar. It has a distinctive octagonal tower, timber facade, corner turret and elaborate carvings and frescoes, all dating back to the middle ages. The house is named after the family that owned it in the 16th century, a wealthy Pfister family – Pfister comes from the Latin word for baker. Today, the ground floor is occupied by VINUM, a rather exclusive wine shop.

Opposite Pfister House is the Maison Schongauer, or Swan House. It was home to the famous artist and engraver Martin Schongauer from 1477-1490.

Directions: At the corner, head right along Rue des Marchands and the heart of Colmar Old Town.

2. Old Town & Rue des Marchands

Rue des Marchands in the old town is a charming street lined with half-timbered houses and boutique shops. It’s one of the most picturesque in Colmar, so it’s worth taking your time to explore.

Directions: Take the first left to see the grand Law Court building. Then cross the square in front and head right to walk towards Little Venice, or La Petite Venise. Look out for Maison des Chevaliers on your right, which looks a bit like a Venetian palace.

3. Petite Venise

Petite Venise is a neighborhood centered around a canal (the Lauch Canal) and full of cute colourful houses. It’s not that reminiscent of Venice, but that’s where it gets its name from anyway. It can be a great place to relax and soak in the beauty of Colmar. However, it can get busy so take advantage of an early start for some peace and quiet here.

The first viewpoint of Petite Venise is from the first bridge you’ll see on your left. This is the bridge on Rue Turenne and is one of the best viewpoints of Little Venice. There are some very cute restaurants here, some half floating over the water. After admiring this view, head back to continue walking down the road on the same side of the river. Take the first left and this will lead you to another bridge with another viewpoint of Petite Venise.

Directions: Just across the bridge, take the steps down to your left. This walkway leads you back to the first bridge along a cute small lane.

Quai de la Poissonnerie

Renting a rowboa t for thirty minutes (€6) is a great way to see the cute houses of Little Venise and the Fishmongers’ Quarter (Quai de la Poissonnerie) from a different perspective. You can buy tickets from La Krutenau restaurant – you’ll see the wooden boats just outside.

Continue walking close to the river along Rue de la Poissonnerie. You’ll now be on the Quai de la Poissonnerie, the old Fishmongers’ Quarter where fishermen used to live and work. It’s an extremely photogenic street, so a must-see on a walking tour of Colmar.

Directions: At the next bridge, turn left to reach the Marché Couvert, or Covered Market.

Explore Further:

• Best Villages in Alsace
• Best Places to Stay in Alsace
• Best Walking Routes in Alsace
• Alsace Wine Route
• Alsace Travel Guide

4. Marché Couvert de Colmar

Key Information: Open from 8am Tue-Sat, from 10am on Sundays, and closed on Mondays.

Colmar’s Covered Market is a great place to explore and taste the local produce. These include regional cheeses, most of which are smelly, such as Munster, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. You’ll also find food stalls with options to either eat just outside the stall or take away. Additionally, a couple of stalls sell non-food items and tourist trinkets.

One highly recommended cafe is La Terrasse du Marché, inside the market but with tables on a terrace overlooking the canal and old buildings. A great place to stop for a break on this walking tour of Colmar.

Directions: Continue walking around the market, straight across the road and take the first left into the next district of Colmar.

5. Quartier des Tanneurs

The Quartier des Tanneurs is, as the name suggests, the old tanners’ quarter. This area is filled with beautiful half-timbered houses (from the 17th-18th centuries) and narrow streets, and it’s a great place to explore. The central square here, the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, holds the famous Christmas Market, or Marché de Noël, in December time.

Walk around a few of the lovely, quiet backstreets before heading across the bridge to the Old Customs House . This colourful building is also called the Ancienne Douane, or Koifus. It’s a rather striking piece of architecture dating back to the 1400s. Not only beautiful, this house used to play a vital role in the town’s economy. All goods entering the town had to be brought here for local taxes to be paid before they could be sold onwards.

Directions: Walk through the customs building and head right to walk through more of Colmar. You’ll see the Old Hospital on your right and then pass St Matthew’s Church . After this, take the first left along one of the major shopping streets of town. Take the second left, then bend right to reach the square in front of the Dominican Church.

6. Église des Dominicains

Key Information: Open 10 am – 1 pm and 3 – 6 pm, closed Mondays and Wednesdays. Entrance costs €2/1/free per adult/child/under 12.

The Place des Dominicains just outside the church is a picturesque square with beautiful architecture. The fountain in the centre tells the story of a local legend. The Église des Dominicains itself dates mainly from the 14th century. There are beautiful stained glass windows, but the real highlight is the Madonna of the Rose Bush, painted by local master craftsman Martin Schongauer.

Directions: Head right around the church and follow the waterways to the Musée d’Unterlinden, just after the large garden.

7. Musée d’Unterlinden

Key Information: Open every day except Tuesday, 9am-6pm. Tickets cost €13/8 plus €2 for an audioguide (recommended).

The Musée d’Unterlinden ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is housed in a former convent dating back to the 13th century. It’s been modernized and wonderfully combines both old and new architectural elements, making it one of the top cultural attractions in Colmar. The museum’s collection includes works by famous artists such as Picasso and Monet, as well as a range of medieval and Renaissance art. Be sure to check out the famous Isenheim Altarpiece while you’re there. And don’t miss the archaeological section, which covers excavations from around Alsace.

Directions: The final stretch of the Colmar Walking Tour continues down Rue des Têtes, to the right after the garden. You’ll find the Maison des Têtes on your left as you walk along the street.

Maison des Têtes

The Maison des Têtes got its name from the over 100 heads that adorn its front. It dates from the 17th century, built by a wealthy merchant in a Renaissance style. From 1902 the house contained the local wine exchange, while today you’ll find a Michelin-star restaurant and a fancy hotel * in the building.

Directions: At the end of the street turn left, head right across the square, and continue along Rue des Marchands.

Musée Bartholdi

Key Information: Open 10am-noon and 2pm-6pm. Closed Mondays and all of January. Tickets cost €5/free for adults/children.

The Musée Bartholdi ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is an excellent small museum in the historical city centre. It displays work by Auguste Bartholdi, a sculptor born in Colmar in 1886, most famous for the Statue of Liberty. The museum displays several sculptures, along with a few of Bartholdi’s private belongings, all in the house where he once lived.

Directions: Take the next road to the left and you be back at St Martin’s Church and the end of the Colmar Walking Tour.

Extra Sight: Toy Museum

Key Information: Open Jan-Nov 10am-5pm, closed Tuesdays. July, August & December open every day 10am-6pm. Tickets cost €6.10/4.70 for adults/children.

If you’re interested in toys, and especially if you have younger children, then the Toy Museum ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *), or ‘Musée du Jouet’ is well worth a visit. It’s housed in a former cinema and not too far from the town center. On display are collections of toys from the 19th century to the present. There are teddy bears, dolls, toy trains, video games, and much more. A particular highlight is the train network which occupies the entire second floor.

Best Places to Stay in Colmar

Colmar has many places to stay, from budget hostels to fancy hotels and everything in between. Check out the best hotels in Colmar below:

• Ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare *: One of the best cheaper hotels in town. Clean rooms with a good location.
• Hôtel Turenne *: A modern boutique hotel close to La Petite Venise with great service and private (paid) parking.
• Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes *: A five-star luxury hotel for those wishing to push the boat out. There’s private parking, a lovely shaded patio out back and a Michelin-star restaurant on-site.
• Belle chambre cosy *: Rooms not far from the town centre with a shared lounge and fully equipped kitchen, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. A great choice for those on a modest budget.
• Odalys City Colmar La Rose d’Argent *: Apartments in a hotel, all with small fully equipped kitchens and free WiFi.
• Apartments Center Colmar *: Lovely, spacious apartments with a great location. These apartments all include WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen and free parking. Perfect for a comfortable stay in Colmar.

Guidebooks & Maps for Exploring Alsace

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Falling under the spell of Colmar

Inspiration

Alsace and Lorraine Food and Wine Cities Couples

Reading time: 0 min Published on 11 April 2023, updated on 15 April 2024

It is said that Colmar is the essence of Alsace. With its half-timbered houses, flower-bedecked homes, and multitude of canals and bridges, the city seems to have been taken out of a romance. Wander through its cobblestone streets, taste its regional specialties, stride across neighboring vineyards—love at first sight, guaranteed!

Half-timbered houses, flowers and heritage

It's impossible to remain indifferent to Colmar. Here, you can enjoy the sweetness of life drawn from the historic pedestrian center as you stroll through its streets admiring the buildings' facades. Check out the House of the Heads and its 105 grotesque masks that decorate it. Admire the Pfister House with its angled bay windows, wooden galleries, octagonal turrets and murals depicting biblical and secular scenes. Another must-see sight is the Collegiate Church Saint-Martin, with its remarkable Gothic architecture. Beautiful during the day, Colmar is a wonder at night thanks to outdoor wall lights revealing new outlines and reliefs. Indeed, this is the theme of the Féerie des lumières (Wonder of Lights) tour organized every Saturday, from April to October, by the city's tourism office. Féerie des lumières guided tour

Along the riverside

Voir cette publication sur Instagram Une publication partagée par Colmar au fil de l'eau (@colmaraufildeleau) le 30 Juin 2019 à 6 :16 PDT

The best way to discover Little Venice, an emblematic district of Colmar, is aboard a flat-bottomed boat. Sail on the Launch river, which irrigates the canals crossing the district, and begin reliving the journey of market gardeners who used to cross it to take their products to the market building. A must-see spot is the fishmonger's district, connecting Little Venice to the area of Tanneurs. It was here, in these houses with colorful and sometimes quirky facades, where the fishermen of the city lived. The pier also served as an auction house. Take a boat trip

Bæckeoffe, sauerkraut, späetzle, pretzels—these are the taste of Alsace , which Colmar has to offer in spades for sale in its covered market. This brick-and-stone building in Little Venice brings together some 15 merchants offering local products: meat, poultry, cheese, farm products, but also pretzels, wines and Alsace eaux-de-vie brandy, flowers and other spices. A must-taste is flammekueche , a flambéed tart with a very thin dough base and a mixture of cream, cottage cheese, bacon and onions (often called "Alsatian pizza"). Head to one of the city's winstubs , former wine bars converted into inns, to sample local cuisine. Save room for Gilg's kougelhopf, in old Colmar, or Bredele cookies, traditionally eaten at Christmas, that the Alsatian biscuit house makes all year long. Alsatian biscuit house Colmar covered market

Colmar in a bottle

Voir cette publication sur Instagram Une publication partagée par Domaine Martin Jund (@domainemartinjund) le 8 Mai 2019 à 5 :24 PDT

There is a good reason why it is called the capital of Alsatian wines! In Colmar, vineyards bloom down to the historic center, as in the rue de l'Ange, where "Domaine Martin Jund" is located. This family-operated winery, whose wines are certified organic farming, implements a reasoned culture of grapes. During tastings offered by the house, visitors can learn more about the different wines of Alsace: Riesling, Gewurtztraminer or sparkling crémant wine, all products made from grapes harvested in the region around Colmar. A few blocks away, "Domaine Robert Karcher et Fils" welcomes us in an old farm dating back to 1602. There, among one-hundred-year-old oak barrels, we discover the vineyard's production planted on the land of Harth, a municipality of Colmar. Domaine Martin Jund Domaine Robert Karcher et Fils

From vineyards to castles

Colmar is the perfect starting point to discover the most beautiful villages of the Alsace Wine Route . Eguisheim, Kaysersberg or Riquewihr—along the route is a parade of vineyards. You can also take a walk in the romantic Schoppenwihr park, the first organic botanical garden in France, unless you prefer to take the Route des Cinq Châteaux (Route of the Five Castles), which includes the three castles of Haut-Eguisheim, Hohlandsbourg Castle and Pflixbourg Castle.

For more information: • Plan your trip to Alsace

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