Colmar is a charming and picturesque town located in the Alsace region of France. Known for its vibrant buildings, winding canals, and centuries-old architecture, Colmar is a destination that shouldn’t be missed. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the best attractions and things to do in Colmar, so you can make the most of your trip to this enchanting town. From exploring ancient churches to sampling local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Colmar. So, let’s dive in and discover the top must-see spots and activities in this beautiful town.

The 2 Best Must Do Things In Colmar

1. Historical Walk Through Colmar With a Local
2. Colmar Self Guided Mobile Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour

The 2 Best Must Do Things In Colmar

1. Historical Walk Through Colmar With a Local

Explore the historical side of Colmar by joining a small-group walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Discover the city’s splendid medieval architecture and learn about its rich history as you visit popular attractions like the House of the St. John’s Knights, Colmar’s canals, and the Maison Pfister. The tour is capped at eight people, ensuring a personalized experience, and you can choose between morning and afternoon start times that suits your schedule. The tour includes the service of a local guide, but personal expenses during the experience and snacks are not covered. Meet your guide at the designated meeting point of 3 Rue Saint-Jean and end your tour at 40 Rue Vauban. Get a new perspective of Colmar with this guided walk through the city’s top sights.

2. Colmar Self Guided Mobile Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour

Get to know Colmar at your own pace with an interactive scavenger hunt walking tour that you can play on your phone. This self-guided tour allows you to see the city’s most important attractions while deciphering riddles and unlocking interesting facts and legends. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, couples, groups, families, and children, and is also an excellent team-building exercise. You can enjoy the tour while still adhering to social distancing guidelines. You’ll discover hidden gems, get plenty of time to take beautiful photos, and learn about the city’s history and culture. Among the highlights of the tour are St. Martin’s Church, Bartholdi Museum, and more. The tour includes a mobile app and login credentials, navigation assistance, and entrance fees. Please note that this tour may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colmar City

Colmar is a charming town in the northeast of France, known for its picturesque canals, half-timbered houses, and rich cultural heritage. Being a popular tourist destination, visitors often have many questions about the city to make the most of their trip. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Colmar.

What is the best time to visit Colmar?

Colmar is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are relatively small. If you are a fan of Christmas markets, you will not want to miss Colmar’s festive markets, which start in late November and continue until the end of December.

How to get to Colmar?

There are several ways to reach Colmar:

1. By Plane – The closest international airport is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, which is about 60 km from Colmar. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, train or hire a taxicab to Colmar.
2. By Train – Colmar is well-connected by train to major French cities like Strasbourg, Paris, and Lyon. The Colmar train station is in the city center, making it easy to explore the town on foot.
3. By Car – Colmar is easily accessible by road, and the town is well-connected to the French highway network. If you are driving from Strasbourg, take the A35-A36 motorway, and if you are coming from Mulhouse, take the A35-A36 motorway.

What are the top things to see in Colmar?

Colmar has many attractions, but here are some must-see places that you should not miss:

• Little Venice – A picturesque district in the old town with beautiful canals, half-timbered houses, and charming cafes.
• Unterlinden Museum – A former 13th-century convent converted into a museum that houses European art and artifacts, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald.
• Maison des Têtes – A beautiful renaissance house decorated with 106 sculpted heads.
• Colmar Christmas Markets – A magical event that takes over the city each year in November and December. With its rich decorations, local produce, and traditional crafts, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
• Batholdi Museum – The birthplace of the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, it has many of his original sculptures and drawings.

What are some traditional dishes of Colmar?

Colmar has a rich culinary tradition, and some of the typical dishes that you should try are:

• Tarte Flambée – A thin crust dough topped with bacon, onion, and crème fraiche.
• Sauerkraut – A dish made from pickled cabbage, served with sausages and potatoes.
• Baeckaoffa – A casserole dish made from marinated meats cooked with potatoes, carrots, and onions.
• Kougelhopf – A sweet pastry made from yeast dough, raisins, and almonds.
• Alsace wine – Colmar is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, and its wines are among the best in France.

Where to stay in Colmar?

Colmar has many accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and bed & breakfast. If you want to stay close to the city center, look for accommodation options in the old town or the little Venice district. Some of the best hotels in Colmar are:

• Hotel Saint-Martin – A luxurious hotel in the heart of the old town, decorated with contemporary design and art installations.
• Hotel Quatorze – A boutique hotel that combines modern design and Alsatian tradition, located in the bustling pedestrian zone.
• Le Colombier – A charming hotel located in a restored 19th-century mansion, surrounded by a beautiful garden.
• Maison d’Hôtes Les Épices Curiens – A cozy bed & breakfast in the heart of the old town, decorated with a romantic and exotic ambiance.

What are the best day trips from Colmar?

Colmar is a great base to explore the Alsace region and beyond. Some of the best day trips from Colmar are:

• Eguisheim – A charming medieval village with a circular layout, surrounded by vineyards and forests.
• Strasbourg – The capital of the Alsace region, known for its stunning cathedral, picturesque canals, and European institutions.
• Ribeauvillé – A medieval village with a rich wine-growing history, known for its half-timbered houses, and the ruins of three castles.
• Mulhouse – A city with a rich industrial heritage, known for its museums, parks, and cultural events.
• Col du Bonhomme – A mountain pass that connects Colmar to the Lorraine region, famous for its panoramic views and outdoor activities.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colmar

Colmar, a commune in the Alsace region of northeastern France, is known for its well-preserved old town decorated with vibrant half-timbered buildings. The town is also known for its museums, fine dining restaurants, and wines. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Colmar.

Getting to Colmar

The easiest way to get to Colmar is by train. Colmar is well connected by train from major cities in France like Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon. Alternatively, you can also drive to Colmar from other European cities. Colmar is well connected to the European highway system, and the A35 motorway passes through the town.

Where to Stay in Colmar

There are several options for accommodation in Colmar, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments. Here are some of our suggestions:

Hotel Le Marechal

Hotel Le Marechal, located in the heart of the old town, is a 4-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations. The hotel is housed in a 16th-century building and features an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a spa.

Colmar Hotel

Colmar Hotel is a budget-friendly option located just outside the old town. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a continental breakfast.

La Maison Des Tetes

La Maison Des Tetes is a boutique hotel located in a 16th-century building in the old town. The hotel features individually decorated rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar.

Things to Do in Colmar

Colmar is a town filled with historical sites, museums, and local food culture. Here are some of our top picks for things to do in Colmar:

Visit the Unterlinden Museum

The Unterlinden Museum, located in a former 13th-century Dominican convent, is one of the must-see attractions in Colmar. The museum features an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including works by Picasso and Monet.

Explore the Old Town

The old town of Colmar is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason! The town is filled with well-preserved half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and charming canals. Make sure to take a stroll down Petite Venise, or Little Venice, a picturesque neighborhood by the canal.

Tour the Bartholdi Museum

The Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, is located in the house where Bartholdi was born. The museum features a collection of his works, including the original plaster model of the Statue of Liberty.

Visit a Winery

Colmar is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, known for its white wines. Take a tour of a local winery and taste some of the best wines this region has to offer.

Where to Eat and Drink

Alsace is known for its rich culinary tradition, and Colmar is no exception. Here are some of our top picks for restaurants and bars in Colmar:

La Maison Rouge

La Maison Rouge serves traditional Alsatian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Make sure to try the choucroute, a dish made with sauerkraut and various meats.

L’Auberge de L’Ill

L’Auberge de L’Ill is a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative French cuisine. The restaurant features a stunning garden and terrace overlooking the river.

Les Caves Saint-Pierre

Les Caves Saint-Pierre is a wine bar located in a 14th-century cellar. The bar serves a selection of local wines and traditional Alsatian dishes.

Book Your Tour Now

Colmar is a charming town filled with historical sites, museums, and local food culture. Make sure to explore the old town, visit the Unterlinden Museum, and taste some of the best wines this region has to offer. With this guide, you’ll be sure to make the most of your trip to Colmar.