Guide to discover Colmar
City of Colmar, Alsace, France © tourisme-colmar.com
Colmar is a charming city, nicknamed the « countryside town » because of its small number of inhabitants. It is located in a strategic area, near the German and Swiss borders, in between the cities of Strasbourg and Mulhouse in Alsace. You will be seduced by the typical neighbourhoods of this town, with its traditional Alsatian colored houses, and its numerous historical monuments. It is not without reason that it’s often qualified as the « most Alsatian city of Alsace ». Moreover, the city has a rich cultural, historical and architectural heritage to discover in a few days throughout the year.
There are many things to see in Colmar. Here is a selection of places to visit in Colmar and its region.
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Top things to do in Colmar
Colmar old town
This large pedestrian area is the heart of local life : museums, historical and religious monuments, restaurants, cafés, shops … Enjoy a walk through its cobblestone streets with half-timbered houses and interior courtyards hiding beautiful surprises.
The Old Town © jtb.co
During your walk, you will undoubtedly come across the Maison Pfister, a beautiful example of the architectural revival, one of the symbols of the old Colmar. Have a look at its mural paintings and its double wooden oriel.
The Maison Pfister © pinterest.fr
To continue your visit, go to the Koifhus, the most outstanding public monument of the city. Also called “Old Customs House”, this historical building used to be the administrative and economic headquarters of the city. Built in 1480, he originally had two main roles : administrative services and court upstairs, and customs services and warehouse downstairs. The building’s role has changed a lot over time. Today, it hosts public events and activities. Enjoy its decorated stained glass windows, the sandstone balustrade and the Renaissance style stairs.
Koifhus © tourisme-colmar.com
The collegiate church Saint-Martin was mainly built during the 14th century. You will be amazed by its impressive gothic architecture. It was built on the remains of an even older basilica. Its unique Renaissance style tower is crowned with a bulb bell tower which gives the building its characteristic shape. This church was built with yellow sandstone, so that it has stunning colors at dawn and dusk. Actually, sunlight meets portal sculptures, creating shadows and golden glow on the building.
Saint Martin’s church, Colmar © canalblog.com
Another must see religious monument is the Dominican Church. Located on the Dominicans square, this massive church is a nice heritage of the Mendicant Orders’ typical architecture. It was built at the end of the 13th century and belonged at that time to the Dominicans of Colmar. You will feel a sense of majesty when you enter this imposing building and see high arcades. Its huge wooden vaulted ceiling is enlightened by pretty 14th century stained glass windows. It houses the inescapable masterpiece of the Alsatian painter and engraver Martin Schongauer “Madonna in Rose Garden”, made in 1473. Nowadays, it has become a place of worship and hosts temporary exhibits. The entry fee is 1,50€ for adults.
Madonna in Rose Garden © tourisme-alsace.com
Close to the church, you can see the “Maison des Têtes”. This majestic and very original house was built in 1609. It has more than 100 wincing masks sculpted on its facade, in a late German Renaissance style. Today, it is a chic hotel and restaurant.
Maison des Têtes © tourisme-colmar.com
To go further in your tour in the Old Town, you can visit the Unterlinden Museum. This prestigious and world renowned museum is one of the most visited in France. It is housed in a former Dominican Couvent and its cloister was built in the 13th century. It has a rich collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Age to Renaissance and houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, the masterpiece of the German painter Grünewald. You will also find contemporary works of major artists of the 20th century such as Picasso or Monet. The full price entry is 13€.
Musée Unterlinden © eurojournalist.eu
Little Venice (Petite Venise)
This picturesque district close to Turenne Street where the Lauch river flows, is one of the most romantic and pleasant places of the city. The name of this district comes from the presence of typical Alsatian houses on both sides of the river. There are many boat trips on the river that let you enjoy calm and serenity and see the reflection of colored houses in the water . This district is located at the crossing point between Tanner Bridge (Pont des Tanneurs) and Saint Pierre Bridge (Pont Saint-Pierre) where there is a magnificent view on the river. You will pass through Fishmonger’s dock (Quai de la Poissonnerie), where fishermen used to sell their fishes in the 16th century.
Little Venise © diana-hr.com
You will also get the chance to discover the big covered market in the Little Venice district. This market is open from Tuesday to Saturday and gathers about twenty merchants offering various fresh quality products. You will find there everything you need : butchery, bakery, cheese dairy, fishmonger’s, flower shops… Built in 1865, the building is made of iron bricks, cast iron and steel frame, symbolizing the leap into the industrial age.
Covered market © alsaceavelo.fr
Alsace vineyard near Colmar
If you visit Colmar, nicknamed “capital city of Alsatian wines”, you should meet local winemakers to discover their wines and winemaking process. Actually, Colmar is located in the heart of the Alsatian Wine Road, one of the oldest and most attractive Wine Roads in France. Known worldwide, it contributes to the celebrity of Alsatian wines. It is a touristic itinerary including typical villages, vineyards and wine cellars to discover. The road extends over more than 170 kilometers from Thann, southern gateway of the vineyard, to Marlenheim, in the north (near Strasbourg). It gathers about 300 wineries and about fifty Grands Crus appellations. If you love to ride bicycles, there is a dedicated road all along the itinerary, a very pleasant way to discover the vineyard on shiny days.
The Alsace wine road © vinsalsace.com
Are you looking for a visit of Colmar’s magnificent vineyards without having to plan a whole trip? A wine tour from Colmar could perfectly meet your needs! For example, on the half-day tour of Alsace just below, your guide will take you to recommended villages such as Eguisheim, Pfaffenheim, Rouffach and Turckheim, known for their breathtaking beauty. These villages are also great places to sample a wide range of Alsace wines, including grands crus. Savor the flavors of pinot gris, gewürztraminer, riesling, sylvaner and more. At each local winery, tastings are accompanied by insightful commentary from the winemakers themselves, giving you a deeper understanding of the age-old skills and traditions of winemaking.
Wine tour from Colmar © Ophorus
If you would rather have a full day trip, the following Wine tour will allow you to drive along the Alsace wine route, stop at 3 wineries for wine tastings, to meet some of the owners and winemakers and to discover the local grape varieties. This one-day Alsace wine tour from Colmar is the perfect introduction to local white wines.
Wine tour from Colmar © Ophorus
If you would still enjoy a full-day tour of Alsace along the famous Alsace Wine Route, but would like to start from Strasbourg in order to visit the surrounding vineyards including Comar’s, you’ll have the opportunity to explore three distinct wine regions, discover the diversity of Alsace’s terroirs and taste the exquisite local white wines with the following tour.
Wine tour from Strasbourg © Ophorus
Many cultural, wine and gastronomic events are organized throughout the year nearby the route. For example, the SlowUp takes place every summer. It is a 30 kilometers tour closeby the Wine Route, which is closed to the motorized transports on that special day. It is a great opportunity to discover in an original manner the region and its landscapes. A marathon also takes place every year in the Alsatian vineyard.
SlowUp Event on the Alsace wine road © francevelotourisme.com
The vineyard of the region has exceptional soils and weather for vine growing. About fifty Grands Crus appellations are located in Alsace. They are exclusively made with “noble” grape varieties of the region, among which we might quote Riesling, recognized as being one of the best white grape varieties in the world, or Gewurztraminer, the most famous variety in Alsace. These grape varieties give birth to high quality white wines. Alsace is also the region of Crémants, sparkling white wines. The Crémants d’Alsace AOC represents a quarter of the Alsatian wine production.
Numerous wineries, mostly organic or even biodynamic, are to be discovered in the region. However, if you are visiting the surroundings by car, We would recommend you visit three of the best wineries of the region. Each of them have a uniqueness that you should take the time to discover.
Wineries near Colmar
To begin, you can visit the Domaine Emile Beyer, located in the village of Eguisheim, 20 minutes away from Colmar. Eguisheim was designated as the most beautiful French village in recent years. It is an incredible typical Alsatian village surrounded by hills with vines and where houses have a snail-shaped arrangement. You will find there all the charm of Alsatian architecture with half-timbered houses. The Domaine Emile Beyer winery is located in a traditional local house. This winery gathers both tradition and modernity. There, you will be able to discover its historical cellars, no longer used but still open for visits, and its modern tasting room.This room is a great place to taste the winery’s Riesling and Pinot Noir wines ranges, which are often quoted as some of the best red wines of the region. You will also be able to experience a Gourmet tour between Colmar and Eguisheim centered around Beyer’s wines.
Domaine Emile Beyer winery, Eguisheim
Discover Domaine Gueth, an independent winegrower who produces quality wines, as evidenced by the certifications it has obtained: High Environmental Value (HVE) and Organic Agriculture (AB). Muriel, the seventh generation of winegrowers, adds a contemporary touch to create fruity, elegant wines in harmony with nature. Nestling on the wine route, her cellar awaits your visit. Discover a cellar tour where passion meets philosophy. Muriel will share her unique approach to winemaking, adopting a feminine perspective and a commitment to respecting the environment. Let yourself be tempted by a varied menu featuring over twenty wines, from the most traditional to the rarest, to satisfy your desires and delight your friends.
Domaine Gueth, Gueberschwihr
Embark on a generational wine journey at Domaine François Schmitt. In the ’70s, François took charge of the family’s 3-hectare vineyard in Orschwihr. Today, his son Frédéric passionately manages the expanded 13-hectare domain on the famous Bollenberg and Grand Cru Pfingstberg slopes. Committed to eco-friendly viticulture since 2005, this entire winery adheres to organic principles since 2010. Indulge in its exquisite wines, crémants, and late harvests—crafted with family expertise. Celebrate a legacy of exceptional wines and rich tradition at Domaine François Schmitt. Cheers!
Domaine François Schmitt, Orschwihr
Musée Bartholdi
Auguste Bartholdi is one of the most famous inhabitants of Colmar as he was one of the most successful sculptors of the 19th century. He designed the New York Statue of Liberty. Besides, at the northern entrance of Colmar, there is a copy of this statue, “Miss Liberty” in an Alsatian version. With its 12 meters height, it is the highest replica of the original statue. At night, the Statue’s lightning offers a spectacular experience.
Schwendi fountain of Bartholdi, Place de l’Ancienne Douane © tourisme-colmar.com
Several Bartholdi works are exhibited throughout the city, and especially in the Bartholdi Museum. This museum is located in the birth house of the sculptor. At the entrance, you will see Bartholdi’s bronze statue “The World’s Great Bases” (Les Grands Soutiens du Monde). Inside the museum, you will find sketches, models and photographs of his main monuments. An entire room is dedicated to the Statue of Liberty, with a preparatory draft of it. The full entry price is 6€.
Bartholdi museum entrance © colmar.fr
Toy museum
This museum is located in the middle of the town center and has a collection of over 1000 toys from the 19th century up to present day, coming from the whole world ! This museum will appeal to both children and adults. It will take you on a journey through time and space to discover the evolution of toys over time. There is a wide range of exhibited toys, from Barbie dolls to robots, board games, video games and Legos. You will necessarily find the toys you used to play with, a nostalgic move to your childhood is guaranteed ! Moreover, temporary exhibitions on different topics, and entertaining and interactive animations such as puppet shows are offered there. You can also play several games as well. The entry price is 5€ for adults.
Toy museum © pinterest.com
Parc du Champ de Mars
Located in the very heart of Colmar, this park called the “Green Lung” lies between the Champ de Mars Boulevard (Boulevard Champ de Mars) and the Republic Avenue (Avenue de la République). Enjoy this pleasant haven of peace to stroll with your family or friends throughout the year. In winter, a skating rink is created there, as well as a Christmas market and Christmas animations.
Parc du Champ de Mars © tourisme-alsace.com
The Ancient Carousel of 1900 installed in the park, will seduce you with its wooden horses, fairy tales carriages, twisted ramps and reproductions of 1900 posters, describing the life in Colmar during the time of its construction. In its ancient style kiosk, “The Carousel Delights”, you will find everything for your and your children’s happiness : Crêpes/pancakes, waffles, artisanal ice cream, candies… to be savoured in a festive atmosphere.
Carousel 1900, Parc du Champ de Mars © e-monsite.com
Best Events in Colmar
Lots of events take place in Colmar throughout the year, attracting many tourists. The city is enlightened every Friday and Saturday evenings and during important events. Stunning illuminations are displayed on buildings focusing on 4 different topics : water, air, earth and fire. They highlight architectural details of the city.
Mise en lumière © tourisme-colmar.com
Christmas Market
During Christmas time, there is a magical atmosphere in the city with its five Christmas markets, the illuminated and decorated Old Town. Each Christmas market is like a small village, with its specific characteristics and atmosphere. You will find in Little Venice a Christmas Market for children where they will be able to enjoy toys, rides and animations. The one at the Jeanne d’Arc square (Place Jeanne d’Arc) is mainly dedicated to Alsatian gastronomic traditions.
Christmas market Colmar © sejours-liberte.com
International music festival
The International classical music Festival is another important event in Colmar, taking place every summer since 1979. The artistic director of the festival is the Russian musician Vladimir Spivakov. The festival pays tribute every year to someone who played an important role in music history. In 2017, the festival was dedicated to the famous French orchestra conductor Michel Plasson. This festival is a great melting pot of French, Russian and American music.
Colmar international classical music festival Colmar © wikimedia.org
Alsatian Wine Fair
Last but not least, the Alsatian Wine Fair is one of the oldest and the most atypical events in France. It has welcomed about 350 exhibitors and over 250 000 visitors every summer for the past 70 years. It is of course a meeting place for wine producers and wine lovers, but also a place of celebration : dance shows, concerts, cabaret, cook shows, outdoor theater …
Alsatian wine fair © pointecoalsace.fr
When to visit Colmar
In Spring (March to May)
In spring, Colmar comes to life with vibrant blossoms and mild temperatures. The city’s charming streets and canals are adorned with colorful flowers, creating a picturesque setting for leisurely walks. Spring is an ideal time for exploring outdoor attractions, enjoying café terraces, and experiencing the awakening of nature. With fewer tourists than in the peak season, you can savor the beauty of Colmar in a more serene ambiance.
Colmar in spring © Shutterstock
In Summer (June to August)
Summer brings warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere to Colmar. The city buzzes with energy as visitors explore its historic streets and partake in various outdoor events and festivals. While this is the peak tourist season, it offers an opportunity to enjoy open-air markets, boat rides on the canals, and the vibrant ambiance of café-filled squares. The summer months are perfect for those seeking a lively and festive experience.
Colmar in summer © Shutterstock
In Autumn (September to November)
As autumn arrives, Colmar transforms into a tapestry of warm hues with falling leaves and golden landscapes. The grape harvest season in the surrounding vineyards adds a unique charm, and the weather remains pleasant. Fall is a quieter period compared to summer, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s beauty at a more relaxed pace. It’s an excellent time for scenic walks, wine tasting, and appreciating the cozy charm of Colmar.
Colmar in autumn © Shutterstock
In Winter (December to February)
Winter turns Colmar into a magical winter wonderland, especially with its renowned Christmas markets. The city’s medieval architecture is adorned with festive decorations, and the air is filled with the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Despite colder temperatures, the charm of Colmar during the holiday season is unparalleled. Visitors can immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere, explore the illuminated streets, and indulge in seasonal treats at the Christmas markets.
Where to eat in Colmar
Are you looking to fully experience the Alsatian way of life? You can, of course, visit one of the traditional Colmar’s restaurants in the center of the city. From small brasseries to more formal establishments, Colmar’s restaurants celebrate the richness of local cuisine, showcasing iconic dishes such as sauerkraut, pretzels, and tarte flambée, all accompanied by the finest wines of the region.
You can also immerse yourself in the richness of the local culinary culture by choosing to dine in a Winstub. These picturesque establishments embody the very essence of Alsatian tradition, offering much more than just a meal. Opting for a Winstub opens the doors to an authentic gastronomic adventure, where iconic regional dishes are prepared with love and enjoyed in a friendly atmosphere.
How to get in Colmar
By train
The most convenient mode of transportation to Colmar is by train. Below are the travel times from nearby cities in Europe:
- Paris, France: 2.5 hours
- Strasbourg, France: 35 minutes
- Basel, Switzerland: 50 minutes
- Zurich, Switzerland: 2 hours
- Frankfurt, Germany: 3 hours
- Luxembourg, Luxembourg: 2.5 hours
By car
Alternatively, you can explore Colmar on a road trip through Europe. Here are driving times and distances from nearby cities:
- Strasbourg, France: 1 hour, 74 km
- Basel, Switzerland: 50 minutes, 65 km
- Zurich, Switzerland: 2 hours, 160 km
- Luxembourg, Luxembourg: 3.75 hours, 300 km
- Stuttgart, Germany: 2.5 hours, 230 km
- Paris, France: 5.5 hours, 500 km
By plane
The nearest airports are located in Strasbourg, France, and Basel, Switzerland. From these airports, you can either take the train or rent a car to reach Colmar.
We wish you a nice discovery of Colmar and the Alsatian culture !
