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Colmar was an unexpected surprise for me. I’d seen plenty of photos before visiting and knew I’d love it, but none of them did it justice. With its colorful buildings and storybook streets, it’s easy to see why Colmar is often associated with Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Colmar, in the heart of France’s Alsace region, is known for its colorful half-timbered houses, rich wine culture, enchanting Christmas markets, and locally made Alsatian goods. It’s often called the wine capital of Alsace, where crisp white wines are the specialty.
I visited Colmar during the Christmas market season, and the festive decorations and cozy atmosphere made it even more magical.
Is Colmar worth visiting? Absolutely! In this guide, I’ll share what makes Colmar special, including must-see spots, top things to do, and my favorite experiences. You’ll also find practical tips on how much time to spend, the best time to visit, and nearby towns to add to your Alsace itinerary.
Is Colmar Worth Visiting?
Yes! Imagine a town straight out of a fairytale with colorful half-timbered houses lining peaceful canals, swans gliding by, and every corner begging for a photo. That’s Colmar.
But it’s not just the views that make it special. Colmar’s medieval history and unique blend of French and German cultures give the town so much character. This mix of cultures was one of the things I loved most about visiting.
Colmar is also home to several interesting museums and sits along the famous Alsace Wine Route, making it a great base for exploring the region’s charming villages.
Another bonus? Colmar is easy to reach by train or car.
Pack your camera and wander the cobblestone streets with me. Let’s explore Colmar!
💡Pro tip: The Colmar City Pass includes admission to several top attractions, a tourist train ride or guided tour (depending on the season), and a canal boat trip. The pass is valid for seven days and can be purchased online.
18 Things You Need To Know Before You Go
Colmar can get busy, especially during the Christmas markets and summer festival season, but there’s plenty to discover no matter when you visit. Despite its popularity, the town still has a cozy, small-town charm that makes it a must-see destination in Alsace.
💡Travel Tip: If you’re short on time, the 2-hour Segway tour is a fun way to cover more ground while exploring Colmar’s canals, half-timbered houses, and historic Old Town.
Here are 18 things to know before visiting Colmar, France!
1. Magical Half-Timbered Houses: Straight Out of a Storybook
Many say that Colmar’s storybook streets and architecture inspired Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Colmar’s famous half-timbered houses feature exposed wooden beams that create distinctive patterns, with the spaces between them filled with materials such as plaster or brick.
Half-timbered construction dates back to medieval times, when wood was an affordable and readily available building material.
The color was added later, starting in the 1800s, to show prosperity and to make the town more picturesque and charming.
For me, just wandering among these charming houses and taking it all in was worth the trip by itself. I couldn’t stop snapping photos!
2. A Fairytale Stroll: Old Colmar & Little Venice
Wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Colmar, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses, feels like stepping into a fairytale. The canal-lined neighborhood of Little Venice was historically home to fishermen, and the Quai de la Poissonnerie (Fishermen’s Wharf) remains one of Colmar’s most picturesque spots.
I had to wait a little to get to the front and snap this photo, so bring your patience. The view is definitely worth it!
💡Don’t Miss: Colmar’s Old Town is also beautifully illuminated after dark, with special lighting that highlights its historic buildings. The illuminations typically take place on weekends and during special events.
3. Canal Boat Rides in Little Venice
If you want a different perspective of Colmar, a boat ride along the canals is a relaxing way to see the city. Tours last approximately 25 minutes and depart from Pont Saint-Pierre, next to the Caveau Saint-Pierre restaurant.
💡Travel Tip: The Colmar City Pass includes a canal boat ride.
Boat tours are weather-dependent, so check operating schedules and availability before your visit. Seats can fill up quickly, so I recommend booking in advance, especially during busy periods like the Christmas markets.
4. Why Colmar Feels So Unique
Colmar dates back to medieval times and became an important trading town along the routes that connected the Alsace region with the rest of Europe.
Over the centuries, Colmar came under both French and German rule, which helps explain the unique blend of cultures you’ll find here today. You can see these influences in everything from the architecture to the food, and it’s one of the things I loved most about Colmar.
Fortunately, Colmar was largely spared from destruction in both World Wars, allowing much of its historic charm to remain beautifully preserved today.
5. Colmar’s Connection to the Statue of Liberty
Did you know that Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty, was born in Colmar? I certainly didn’t before visiting! The town even has a replica of the iconic statue, celebrating its hometown hero and his world-famous creation.
The replica of the Statue of Liberty in Colmar is located at the northern entrance to the city on Route de Strasbourg (D83). It stands in the middle of a busy roundabout, so it’s not easy to visit up close. However, it’s a fun landmark to spot as you enter the city.
6. Colmar Is Full of Museums
Colmar offers museums for every interest, from art and history to chocolate, toys, and wine. Several are included or discounted with the Colmar City Pass.
Musée Unterlinden Art Museum – Housed in a former 13th-century convent, this impressive art museum features collections spanning centuries of art and history, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Don’t miss the beautiful cloister.
Bartholdi Museum – Explore the former home of Auguste Bartholdi (1834–1904), the sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty. The museum features models of his famous monuments and exhibits about his life and work.
Chocolate Museum – Learn about the history and production of chocolate through interactive exhibits, an audio guide, and a tasting. Chocolate-making workshops may also be available for an extra fee.
Toy Museum – Discover toys and games from the 19th century to today across three floors of exhibits. A fun stop for visitors of all ages.
Alsace Wine Museum – Located next door to the chocolate museum, discover Alsace wines and winemaking, with an audio guide and a tasting included.
The Hansi Village and its Museum – Explore Alsatian traditions and village life through the colorful artwork of Jean-Jacques Waltz, better known as Hansi. It’s located across from the famous Maison des Têtes (House of Heads).
💡Pro Tip: To make the most of your day, start with the Musée Unterlinden in the morning and then visit nearby museums like the Chocolate Museum, Wine Museum, and Toy Museum. They are all within easy walking distance.
7. Colmar’s Historic Gothic Gems
In the 13th century, religious orders such as the Franciscans, Dominicans, and Augustinians established themselves in Colmar, building churches in the historic city center. Many of these churches still stand today.
The Dominican Church – Dating back to the 13th century, this Gothic church is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and Madonna of the Rose Bush, a famous painting by Martin Schongauer.
Saint Martin Church – Built between 1234 and 1365, this impressive Gothic church stands in the heart of Colmar’s Old Town. Its colorful tiled roof, towering architecture, and intricate details make it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
8. Colmar’s Historic Houses & Old Customs
Colmar’s Old Town is filled with historic buildings, each with its own story. Here are four worth looking for as you explore the cobblestone streets.
The Pfister house – Built in 1537 for Ludwig Scherer, this iconic corner house beautifully combines medieval and Renaissance styles. Its distinctive two-story design has become one of Colmar’s most recognizable landmarks.
Adolph House – Dating back to around 1350, this is one of Colmar’s oldest houses and was once home to the Adolph family. Look for its Gothic windows and distinctive medieval architecture.
The Koïfhus (Old Customs) – Completed in 1480, this historic building once served as Colmar’s customs house and an important center for trade. Today, it’s a recognizable landmark in the heart of Old Town.
💡 Pro Tip – Every Tuesday from mid-July to early September at 8 p.m., traditional Alsatian folk music and dance performances take place behind the Koïfhus in Place de l’Ancienne Douane. Always double-check schedules before going.
La Maison des Têtes (House of Heads) – Built in 1609, this quirky house gets its name from the over 100 twisted or grotesque heads carved into its façade. It’s a must-see in Old Town.
9. Wine Tasting in Colmar and the Alsace Wine Route
Colmar sits in the heart of the famous Alsace Wine Route, which winds through picturesque vineyards and charming villages. The region is especially known for its white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
One of the best ways to experience Alsace’s wine country is on a guided wine tour. If you prefer to stay in Colmar, you can also enjoy wine tastings at local wine bars and wineries. Domaine Martin Jund, located in Old Town, is a convenient option for visitors without a car.
10. What Pairs Better with Wine Than Munster Cheese?
La Maison du Fromage, located in the nearby Munster Valley, is a cheese museum where you can learn how traditional Alsatian Munster cheese is made and, of course, enjoy a tasting!
The museum is located about 30 minutes from Colmar by car. You can also take the train to Gunsbach-Griesbach station and walk about a half mile to the museum.
The museum offers a self-guided experience that takes approximately 90 minutes. Reservations are highly recommended since daily entry numbers are limited. Make a half day of it and enjoy lunch at their on-site restaurant!
11. Best Place for Shopping in Colmar
Located in the heart of Little Venice along the Lauch River, Colmar’s Covered Market (Marché Couvert) is a great place to shop for fresh produce, regional specialties, and locally made goods. Its riverside location once allowed merchants to deliver goods by boat, adding to the market’s historic charm.
The covered market has a few small restaurants and cafes to grab a quick lunch or coffee. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday. There is often a concert on the first Friday of every month. Be sure to check the concert schedule in advance.
🥐 Don’t Miss: Patisserie L’Enfarine is a highly recommended bakery located in the Covered Market! Stop by for some freshly baked pastries or bread!
12. Getting Around Colmar
Colmar is easy to explore on foot, with most of its main attractions located within walking distance of one another. The historic Old Town is about a 15-minute walk from the train station, making it convenient for visitors arriving by train.
Biking is another fun way to explore Colmar and the surrounding area, with rental options available in town.
Colmar also has a local bus system if you need to travel farther, although you likely won’t need it for sightseeing in Old Town.
13. How Much Time Do You Need in Colmar?
Even a few hours in Colmar are worth it! You can stroll through Old Town, admire the colorful half-timbered houses, and enjoy the picturesque canals of Little Venice.
With one full day, you’ll have time to explore the historic churches, visit a museum, take a canal boat ride, shop at the Covered Market, and enjoy some traditional Alsatian food and wine.
If you have two days or more, consider venturing outside the city to explore a winery or visit the Munster Cheese Museum. Or do both!
Everything depends on your desired pace and which stops top your list!
14. Alsatian Food, Pastries, Coffee and Michelin Star Dining
Like many French cities, Colmar is full of patisseries and cafés. It’s one of my favorite things about France! If you’re looking for a coffee, a flaky pastry, or an elaborate dessert, you’ll have no trouble finding something delicious here.
Much of Colmar’s cuisine reflects a unique blend of French and German influences. A popular treat is the Kugelhopf (Gugelhupf in German), a raisin-studded cake similar to a bundt cake. Be sure to try tarte flambée (flammekueche), a thin, crispy flatbread traditionally topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
For a traditional Alsatian meal, head to a Winstub, a cozy, casual restaurant serving hearty regional dishes. Winstub Brenner, located in the heart of Little Venice, is a popular choice. Reservations are recommended, especially during busy seasons.
Colmar also has some excellent fine dining options. La Maison des Têtes (House of Heads), one of the city’s most famous historic buildings, is home to a hotel and Restaurant Girardin, known for its fine dining.
15. Getting There
We arrived in Colmar by train, which is one of the easiest ways to get here. Colmar is well-connected to other European cities, making it a convenient stop on an Alsace itinerary.
By train: it’s about 45 minutes from Basel, 30 minutes from Strasbourg, and 2.5–3 hours from Paris.
By Car: Driving to Colmar is straightforward. Most roads around the city are toll-free, and there are plenty of parking options, including free short-term spots. You can also park on the outskirts and use Colmar’s public transport to get around.
By Air: The closest major airport is EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, located near the French-Swiss border. Strasbourg Airport is another option, with train connections to Colmar.
16. When is the Best Time to Visit Colmar?
There isn’t a bad time to visit Colmar. Pick a time that fits your schedule and what you’d like to experience most. For me, I started with the Christmas market, but next time I’d love to go in spring.
Winter – Winter turns Colmar into a magical wonderland with its famous Christmas markets. Temperatures are often in the 30s and 40s°F, so pack warm gear. It can get crowded on weekends, but the festive atmosphere is worth it.
Summer – Summer is peak tourist season and brings the Colmar Wine Festival and the Colmar Classical Music Festival. Temperatures often reach the upper 70s and 80s°F, with occasional hotter days. You’ll enjoy the longest daylight hours for sightseeing.
Spring – Spring is a wonderful time to visit Colmar, with flowers in bloom and pleasant weather. Easter and Spring markets fill Place des Dominicains and Place de l’Ancienne Douane, and the Spring Festival brings parades, food, and music celebrating Alsatian culture.
Fall – Fall is harvest season in the surrounding vineyards, with beautiful autumn colors and generally fewer crowds than summer. It’s a great time to explore the Alsace Wine Route and nearby villages.
17. Day Trips from Colmar
Colmar makes a great home base for exploring the Alsace region. Several charming villages and larger cities are within easy reach by car, public transportation, or guided tour. Cycling between some of the nearby villages is also popular.
Some popular places to visit from Colmar include:
Strasbourg – A larger, more cosmopolitan city, Strasbourg is a popular day trip from Colmar. Its UNESCO-listed Grande Île is home to the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral, while the charming Petite France neighborhood is known for its canals and half-timbered houses. We also visited Strasbourg during the Christmas markets and loved it! For more sightseeing ideas, check out my One Day in Strasbourg guide.
Eguisheim – Just 15 minutes by car or taxi, this town is famous for its quaint central castle and colorful half-timbered houses. Eguisheim also hosts a charming Christmas market during the holiday season.
Riquewihr – A medieval town surrounded by a fortification wall, Riquewihr is one of the most picturesque villages along the Alsace Wine Route. Riquewihr also hosts a lovely Christmas market. The town is best reached by bus, about 30 minutes from Colmar.
Ribeauvillé – This charming wine village features colorful half-timbered houses, the historic Butchers’ Tower, and three castle ruins overlooking the town. Ribeauvillé is also known for its medieval-themed Christmas market and can be reached by car or regional bus.
18. Visit 3 Countries in One Day From Colmar
Want to visit three countries in one day? Colmar’s location near the borders of Germany and Switzerland makes it possible!
Experience France, Germany, and Switzerland all in one day with a small-group tour from Colmar. You’ll get the comfort of an air-conditioned minivan, a guide, and no more than 8 people in the group. Hotel pickup is included.
The stops on this tour include:
- 1st stop – Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany. Explore this city’s beautiful old town, shop in small boutiques, and stroll along narrow channels lined with walkways.
- 2nd stop – Basel, Switzerland. Wander through Basel’s medieval Old Town and along the Rhine River. Basel sits at the crossroads of France, Switzerland, and Germany, and you won’t want to miss its unique Town Hall.
- 3rd stop – Eguisheim, Alsace, France. Return to Alsace and discover Eguisheim, a picturesque medieval town. Its half-timbered houses are arranged in concentric circles around the central castle.
Three countries, three different experiences, and all in one day!
Where are the Best Places to Stay in Colmar?
If you’re planning to spend the night in Colmar, I recommend staying in or near Old Town so you can easily explore the main attractions on foot.
Here are four accommodation options for different budgets and travel styles.
Budget ($) – Ibis Styles Colmar Centre offers modern and comfortable rooms in a former brewery. It includes free WiFi, a bar, and a location right in Colmar’s historic center. You will be within walking distance to many of Colmar’s sights, making it a practical and well-rated choice. Breakfast is included and it’s also great for families.
Mid-range ($$) – James Boutique Hôtel Colmar Centre blends style with location. It is a sleek, contemporary boutique hotel that receives consistently high reviews for both comfort and proximity to the Old Town. Great for families.
Luxury ($$$) – L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar – MGallery Collection stands out. This five-star hotel includes a spa, refined decor, and top-notch service. It is a great option if you want to treat yourself during your trip.
Apartment Style – COLMARAPPART Grand’Rue offers modern, self-catering apartments with full kitchens, including a dishwasher. Its unbeatable location between the Cathedral and Colmar’s main shopping streets makes it ideal for exploring the Old Town.
💡 Tips for Choosing Where to Stay
- Location matters: Staying in or near Old Town makes it easy to explore Colmar’s main attractions on foot.
- Check amenities: If you’re driving, look for parking. Depending on your needs, breakfast, family rooms, and air conditioning may also be important. Not all European hotels have air conditioning.
- Book early: Hotels can fill up quickly during summer and the Christmas market season, so booking ahead gives you more options.
FAQs
Here are answers to a few questions I’m often asked about Colmar, France.
1. Is Colmar or Strasbourg Better to Visit?
If you can, do both since they’re so close together. Strasbourg feels larger and more cosmopolitan, with a walkable Old Town. Colmar is smaller, easy to explore, and looks straight out of a fairytale with its half-timbered houses.
If you can only choose one, I’d pick Strasbourg at Christmas and Colmar other times of the year. As the ‘Capital of Christmas,’ Strasbourg truly goes all out. Outside the holiday season, I’d lean toward Colmar. I couldn’t get enough of its postcard-perfect canals and colorful houses.
2. How many days should you visit Colmar?
One full day is enough to see a lot of Colmar’s sights, especially since everything is within walking distance. If you want to explore nearby towns, take your time with meals, or fit in a canal ride or museum visit, two nights is ideal.
Even a few hours in Colmar are worth it to stroll through Old Town and admire the canals framed by half-timbered houses.
3. What is the best month to visit Colmar?
The best month to visit Colmar depends on what you’re looking for. December is the most magical with the Christmas markets and festive decorations. Summer is warmer but is also perfect for wine trips along the Alsace Wine Route. May or September offer fewer crowds and beautiful weather for exploring the city and nearby villages.
Final Thoughts
Colmar is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, linger on every corner, and take far more photos than necessary. I certainly did! I’d never seen anything quite like it.
Whether you’re planning a girls’ weekend, a romantic getaway, a wine-tasting trip, or just a peaceful escape, Colmar has a magical charm that makes it feel like stepping into a storybook.
Colmar is a must-see destination that stays with you long after you leave.
I hope you found this Colmar travel guide helpful for planning your trip! If you have any questions, feel free to email me at julie@travelandtinsel.com. I love hearing from readers!
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