Colmar
Colmar
Colmar, the charming town in France's Alsace region, looks straight out of a fairy tale with its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. It's a place where French and German influences meet, creating a unique cultural blend that's evident in everything from the architecture to the food.
The town's Old Town is the main attraction, with its colorful buildings lining the canals of an area known as Little Venice. Wandering through the streets, you'll come across beautiful landmarks like the Pfister House with its corner turret and the impressive St. Martin's Church.
Colmar has a rich history dating back to the 9th century and managed to survive both World Wars relatively unscathed, preserving much of its medieval and Renaissance architecture. The town is also known for its exceptional wine production, sitting as it does along the famous Alsatian Wine Route. The local Rieslings and Gewürztraminers are definitely worth trying.
Throughout the year, Colmar hosts various festivals, including a famous Christmas market that transforms the town into a winter wonderland. During spring and summer, the town bursts with flowers, earning it awards for its floral displays. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or someone who just appreciates beautiful surroundings, Colmar delivers on all fronts.
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Things to do in Colmar
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Visit Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)
The Toy Museum in Colmar offers a playful journey through time, with a collection that spans from the 19th century to the present day. Housed in a former cinema, the museum is spread across several floors and features everything from model trains in motion to classic dolls, vintage board games, and hands-on displays. Visitors of all ages can engage with replicas of familiar toys, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
What makes the museum especially engaging is how it connects generations. Adults often find themselves reminiscing over toys from their youth, while children discover the changing styles and technologies behind play across the decades. One of the standout sections focuses on the evolution of video games, where visitors can try out retro consoles. With its interactive exhibits and thoughtful curation, the museum is ideal for spending an hour or two, particularly during rainy weather or when seeking a break from traditional sightseeing.
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Fairytale Villages and Wine: The 4 Wonders of Alsace Day Tour
This full-day tour from Colmar offers a memorable journey through some of the most picturesque villages in Alsace. Traveling in a comfortable minivan, you will follow the scenic Alsace wine route, where gently sloping vineyards and traditional half-timbered houses create a postcard-perfect setting. The tour includes stops in Eguisheim, known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, as well as Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr, both of which showcase the distinct charm of Alsatian architecture and medieval streets.
Each village offers a unique atmosphere, with narrow lanes, colorful buildings, and vibrant local culture. The final destination is Kaysersberg, a town marked by its historic fortress and its role in regional defense. The tour allows ample time for exploration in each location, giving you the opportunity to appreciate both their beauty and historical significance at a relaxed pace.
A highlight of the experience is a visit to a traditional wine cellar, where you can sample well-known regional varieties such as Gewurztraminer, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. With a small group size of no more than seven people, the tour ensures a personal and engaging experience. Your guide shares detailed insights into the history, winemaking traditions, and cultural heritage of the region, balancing informative commentary with time to enjoy the surroundings independently.
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Colmar Old Town & Wine Tasting Tour
This 2-hour walking tour through Colmar offers a captivating introduction to the town's fairytale setting and cultural heritage. As you wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, you will pass rows of colorful half-timbered houses and learn about the town’s layered history from a knowledgeable guide. Colmar’s reputation as the Capital of Alsace Wines becomes clearer with every stop, as the guide points out architectural highlights including Gothic churches and Renaissance facades, while also revealing lesser-known corners that many visitors overlook.
Following the historical walk, the tour continues with a visit to a local winery for a tasting session featuring the region’s celebrated white wines. You will sample varieties such as Gewurztraminer, Riesling, and Pinot Gris, each introduced with insights into the grapes and time-honored wine-making techniques of Alsace. The tasting offers more than just flavor; it provides context to the wine culture that defines the region and complements its identity.
With a group size limited to six participants, the experience remains personal and engaging. The setting allows time for conversation, questions, and reflection, whether you are admiring the picturesque buildings or enjoying the delicate balance of a well-crafted wine. The guides are often praised for their passion and local knowledge, making this tour a thoughtful way to explore Colmar’s blend of French and German influences.
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Gliding Through History: Colmar Segway Adventure
Exploring Colmar by Segway offers a fun and efficient way to take in the character of this Alsatian town. The tour begins at Martin Jund, Colmar’s only winery, where participants receive a brief but helpful Segway training session. Even first-time riders quickly become comfortable before heading out. Once underway, the guide leads you through a variety of neighborhoods including the colorful Old City Center, the architecturally distinct German quarter, and the "Quartier des Maraichers," known for its farming history.
The route also follows Colmar’s three rivers through a wooded area, offering a refreshing contrast to the urban scenery. The Segway allows for smooth travel through the town, covering more ground in two hours than most walking tours. With around 20 stops, the guide provides historical context and local stories that highlight the town's unique evolution. As the ride continues into the New Town, you gain confidence and enjoy a more dynamic pace, adding a bit of excitement to the journey.
To complete the experience, guests have the option of returning to the Martin Jund winery for a wine tasting. This optional visit offers a relaxed way to reflect on the tour while sampling regional wines. The combination of mobility, variety, and local storytelling makes this Segway tour a memorable way to see the many sides of Colmar.
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Visit Unterlinden Museum
The Unterlinden Museum, located within a former 13th-century Dominican convent, holds an impressive collection of art that spans over 7,000 years. Its centerpiece is the Isenheim Altarpiece, a powerful and intricate work created between 1512 and 1516 by Matthias Grünewald and Nikolaus of Haguenau. Widely regarded as one of the most significant religious artworks of the Renaissance, it draws visitors from around the world who come to admire its dramatic imagery and detailed craftsmanship.
In addition to this renowned piece, the museum features a modern extension connected by an underground passage. The galleries display a wide range of works, from prehistoric objects to pieces of contemporary art, with a strong emphasis on the medieval and Renaissance periods. The architecture itself adds to the experience, blending historical and contemporary elements in a thoughtful way. Visitors can expect to spend a few hours exploring the exhibits, which are well-presented with English descriptions and optional audio guides that offer deeper insights into the collection.
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Explore Bartholdi Museum
The Bartholdi Museum honors the legacy of Auguste Bartholdi, the renowned sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty. Set in his birthplace in Colmar, the museum offers a personal view of his artistic journey through a collection of original models, sketches, and personal belongings. Each room in the house provides insight into his creative process and reflects the atmosphere of 19th-century France.
Among the highlights are scale models of his notable works, including the early concepts for the Statue of Liberty. Seeing the transformation of this iconic monument from initial drawings to its final form offers a deeper appreciation of his vision. The museum also features displays of his other large-scale sculptures found across France and abroad. While modest in size, the museum captures the story of how an artist from a small Alsatian town came to create one of the world's most enduring symbols of freedom. The traditional architecture of the building adds another layer of context, showing the cultural roots that influenced his work.
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Wander Through the Tannery District
The Tannery District, or Quartier des Tanneurs, is among the most picturesque areas in Colmar, known for its vividly painted half-timbered houses in shades of yellow, blue, and pink. Once home to the town’s leather workers, the buildings still display their original structure, with open upper levels where hides were once hung to dry. The district’s architecture reflects its working-class past while offering an undeniably charming aesthetic.
Walking through its narrow streets feels like entering another era. The buildings lean slightly over the canal, creating scenic spots perfect for photographs. Compared to busier parts of Colmar, the Tannery District still offers peaceful corners, especially in the early morning or evening. Architectural details such as ornate knockers, blooming window boxes, and aged wooden beams add to the atmosphere. While the main canal draws visitors with its cafés and restaurants, the quieter side streets often lead to hidden local gems where you can pause for a drink and enjoy the surroundings.
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Stroll Through La Petite Venise
La Petite Venise is one of the most picturesque areas in Colmar, where rows of colorful half-timbered houses line the banks of the tranquil Lauch River. Its name becomes clear upon arrival, as the small canals that weave through the neighborhood evoke a quiet, Venetian charm with an Alsatian character. Many of the buildings date from the 14th to 17th centuries and once belonged to merchants, fishmongers, and tanners, offering a glimpse into the town’s working past.
Strolling through the cobbled lanes reveals one scenic view after another, with flower-adorned bridges and reflections in the water that invite lingering photo stops. For a different perspective, visitors can board flat-bottomed boats for a peaceful 30-minute canal tour, where guides often share insights into the history of the buildings along the route. Early mornings offer the quietest experience, while late afternoons bring soft golden light that enhances the district’s already striking colors.
Where to stay in Colmar
Best hotels in Colmar:
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Hotel Arc-En-Ciel Colmar (budget hotel)
Hotel Arc-En-Ciel Colmar is a cozy hotel located just a short walk from Colmar’s historic center. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with modern amenities like free WiFi and flat-screen TVs, making it a great base for exploring the Alsace wine route and the surrounding villages.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, always ready to help. Guests can relax on the outdoor terrace with a drink, and the breakfast is highly praised. Free parking is an added convenience for those traveling by car. While the rooms are on the smaller side, they are clean, well-maintained, and offer everything you need for a pleasant stay. It’s a great choice for those looking for a convenient and affordable option in Colmar.
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Chambre Cozy (homestay)
Chambre Cozy in Colmar offers a delightful stay just a short walk from the city center and train station. The apartment has a fresh, modern vibe with comfortable rooms and a fully equipped shared kitchen. You can unwind on the sunny terrace or relax in the inviting living room.
Théo, the host, is known for being welcoming and sharing great local tips, and there's a charming cat named Choupette to add to the experience. While some areas are shared, the private rooms have secure locks for added peace of mind. Located just 15 minutes on foot from Colmar's beautiful old town, it’s the perfect spot for exploring. After a day of sightseeing, you can return to the calm, peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for solo travelers or couples who want to experience Colmar like a local.
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L'esquisse Hotel & Spa (luxury hotel)
L'esquisse Hotel & Spa is a stylish 5-star hotel right in the center of Colmar, just a stone's throw from Champ de Mars park and only a short walk to all the key attractions. The location is ideal for exploring the historic city.
The rooms are chic and comfortable, with some offering balconies that look out onto the garden or the city. The real standout is the spa, featuring an indoor pool, steam room, and a variety of treatments – perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast, and there's a fine-dining restaurant on-site. The staff is friendly and eager to assist. It’s the perfect luxurious spot to enjoy Colmar, though it does come with a higher price tag for the added comfort and amenities.
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Hotel Le Colombier Suites (medium range hotel)
Hotel Le Colombier Suites is a lovely hotel located in Colmar's charming La Petite Venice district. Its prime location places you just moments from the picturesque canals and colorful half-timbered houses that define the area.
The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, featuring amenities like air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and coffee makers. Some rooms offer views of the quaint village streets or the peaceful garden. The staff is friendly and always ready to offer advice on things to do in the town. A delicious breakfast buffet sets you up for a day of exploring, and afterward, you can relax with a drink at the bar or unwind in the garden. It’s an ideal base for taking in the beauty of Colmar.
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