The Ultimate One Day Guide For Colmar, France

Nestled in the heart of the Alsace region, Colmar is a picturesque town straight out of a fairytale. With its cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and enchanting canals, Colmar is a destination that promises to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. If you have the opportunity to spend a day in this charming town of Colmar, here is the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your time.

How To Get To Colmar

Colmar is conveniently located in the Alsace region of eastern France, making it easily accessible by both train and car.

By Train: Colmar is served by a major train station with regular connections to cities like Strasbourg, Paris, and Basel. The journey from Strasbourg takes around 30 minutes, while the trip from Paris takes approximately 2.5 hours. The main train station, Colmar Gare SNCF, is about a 15 minute walk outside of the city center.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, Colmar is located near the A35 motorway, which connects Strasbourg to Mulhouse. The journey from Strasbourg takes about 1 hour by car, while the drive from Paris takes around 4 hours.

Once in Colmar, exploring the town on foot is highly recommended and encouraged, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in its charming streets and discover hidden gems at every turn. Many of Colmar’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it that much easier to navigate on foot.

A Day in Colmar

There are two options while visiting Colmar. Either spend an jam packed day or two visiting the city, or using it as a home base while visiting more towns on the Alsace Wine Route.

There are quite a few of popular towns nearby to explore such as Strasbourg, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Ribeauville to name a few. Additionally, there are also numerous châteaux nearby to visit.

If you plan on visiting Colmar to enjoy all the sites in the town and learn the history, your first stop should be the tourist office. They offer multiple brochures for the city and region, as well as help with any tips on transportation or any other assistance.

You can easily start your tour by following these golden arrows on the ground with the Statue of Liberty around the city that will guide you to all the different landmarks throughout the town. Located at each destination, there is a sign at each with a description and a QR code to learn more.

Things To Do and See

From museums, to churches, to incredible views, there are quite a few attractions and landmarks to visit while visiting Colmar to fill up your day. Here are a handful of sites to visit.

Little Venice (Petite Venise)

Begin your exploration of Colmar in the picturesque district of Little Venice. Wander along the tranquil canals lined with colorful timber-framed houses, reminiscent of Venice. Make sure to capture the iconic scenes of reflections dancing on the water surface.

This bridge is the perfect picture stop when entering the city. It can actually get quite busy during the day, but everyone is incredibly nice to either help take your picture or will take turns in sharing the space.

Pont Rue des Ecoles Bridge

This bridge gives you the stunning view of the colorful timbered houses along the canal. It’s located right by the Covered Market, so it’s the perfect place to snap a picture and head off to get a snack.

When we were visiting the bridge, the sun was shining right for my picture, so we found a little area off to the side of the bridge to hide the sun for the perfect picture!

Covered Market

Built between 1863 and 1865 by the architect Louis-Michel Boltz, this covered hall became a market. With doors that open into the canal, this allowed the market gardeners to unload their boats.

Indulge your senses at the Covered Market, where you’ll find an array of local delicacies, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. Sample regional cheeses, cured meats, and freshly baked pastries as you mingle with locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

The Covered Market is closed on Mondays. They open at 8:00 am every day with closing times differing each day.

Pfister House

Marvel at the ornate façade of the Pfister House, one of Colmar’s most iconic timber-framed buildings. Admire the intricate carvings and decorative motifs that adorn this historic landmark, offering a glimpse into the town’s rich architectural heritage.

Adolph House

Adolph House is considered to be one of the oldest residences in Colmar, documented since the 14th century. Named after one of the owners who added the Gothic bay windows in the 19th century. There is now a wine and spirits store on the ground floor that you can visit and purchase from.

Museums of Colmar

There are quite a handful of museums scattered throughout the city. From art history, to chocolate, to toys, there is something for everyone.

Unterlinden Museum

Immerse yourself in art and history at the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent. Marvel at the Isenheim Altarpiece, an exquisite masterpiece by Matthias Grünewald, and explore the museum’s diverse collection of medieval and Renaissance artifacts.

The museum is open Wednesday – Monday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm and closed on Tuesdays. The museum is also closed on public holidays such as January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, and December 25th.

Admission prices: Adults are €16.00 for admission + audioguide and €13.00 for just admission. Children ages 12 – 17 are €11.00 for admission + audioguide and €8.00 for just admission. A family pass costs €35.00 for 2 adults and 2 – 5 children ages 12-17.

Free admission for children under 12, members of the Société Schongauer, museum subscription, holders of the Museum-Pass-Musées, and people with disabilities.

Bartholdi Museum

Delve into the life and works of Colmar’s most famous son, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, at the Bartholdi Museum. Learn about the sculptor behind the iconic Statue of Liberty and discover his other notable creations, including the Lion of Belfort.

The museum houses a fascinating collection of his sketches, models, and sculptures. Be sure to visit the museum’s beautiful garden, where you can see some of Bartholdi’s larger works on display.

The museum is open from February 6 to December 31, except on May 1, November 1 and December 25. Bartholdi Museum is also closed on Mondays. Hours for visiting are Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm.

Admission prices for visiting Bartholdi Museum: adults €5.00, children under 18, students with a student card, school groups and people with reduced mobility are free. Audioguides are €2.00 each.

The Hansi Museum

This art museum is dedicated to Uncle Hansi, or Jean Jacques Waltz. The Hansi Museum showcases his famous books, posters, engravings, and advertisements and signs.

Uncle Hansi is known for his illustrations, caricatures, and watercolors he has done in the late 19th century. The museum is located across from the famous Maison des Têtes.

The Hansi Museum is open daily from 10:00 am – 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm. The museum is closed on January 1st and December 25th.

Admission prices: Ages 14 and up €5.00 and children ages 5 – 13 are €3.00.

Toy Museum

The Toy Museum houses a collection of toys from the 19th century to present day. Located on 3 floors, you can wander through looking at dolls, trains, games and more from throughout history and all over the world.

The Toy Museum is open from January to November, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and closed on Tuesdays. During the months July, August, and December, the museum is open daily 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. Closed on January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, and December 25th.

Admission prices: Adults €6.50, children ages 8 – 15 are €5.00, and under age 8 is free.

Choco Story Colmar

Choco Story Colmar is an interactive museum that will teach you all about the history of chocolate throughout the years. There are audioguides, playful areas for families, chocolate sculptures, and even chocolates to taste. You can even join one of their workshops to create your own chocolate for an additional price.

Choco Story Museums are located worldwide, with museums in Paris, Bruges and Brussels Belgium, Prague, and Mexico!

Choco Story is open from Tuesday – Sunday from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, with last tickets being sold at 5:00 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and all of January.

Admission prices: adults €12.50, children ages 3 – 11 are €7.50, reduced price for children ages 12 – 17, students, and disabled people are €10.50. Your tickets include an audioguide and chocolate tasting.

St Martin’s Church

Make your way to the Collegiate Church of Saint Martin, a stunning Gothic Catholic church located in the heart of Colmar. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Vosges Mountains in the distance.

St Martin’s Church is open daily from 8:15 am – 5:45 pm, and on Sundays 10:00 am – 7:00 pm.

Dominican Church

Dating back to the early 14th century, this restored Catholic Church displays notable Alsatian works of art throughout. There is a beautiful painting of Mary by the painter Schongauer from the 15th century.

Dominican Church is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm. There is an entry fee of €2.00 per person to enter.

Maison des Têtes

Built for the merchant Anton Burger in 1609, who became the mayor of the town, owes its name for large number of heads and faces on the outside of the building.

After the building was used as the Colmar Bourse aux Vins, or Wine Exchange, in 1902, the statue of the Alsace barrel-maker was placed on the top of the building.

Now Maison des Têtes is a 5 star boutique hotel with an upscale restaurant inside. The restaurant offers a refined menu of French cuisine with a modern twist, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients from the Alsace region.

So treat yourself to a meal and marvel at all the faces on this unique 17th century building.

Chateau D’eau

The water tower, located near Parc du Champ de Mars, is a historical landmark in a serene small park. It’s designed to regulate pressure and control the flow of the water in the hydraulic system.

The Neo-Gothic style was most common in Europe with the red bricks in the 19th and 20th centuries. This style imitates medieval castles or defense towers. The tower is located right next to the Court of Appeal of Colmar.

Parc du Champ de Mars

Parc du Champ de Mars is a large park located right outside the city center offering quite a lot to visitors. This is where the large Colmar sign (first picture in this blog) is located. They also have a merry-go-round and a cafe.

We actually stumbled on the park on the way to our hotel coming back from the city center. With the beautiful summer weather, Parc du Champ de Mars is the perfect place for a picnic.

Statue of Liberty Replica

This 12-meter resin replica of the Statue of Liberty was placed as a memorial to the sculptor and Colmar native Auguste Bartholdi. The statue was done for the 100th anniversary death of Bartholdi and placed about 15 minutes north of the city center.

The statue is located in the center of a round-a-bout. There are areas where you can pull off, park, and walk closer to take a picture or see the statue better. If not, you can easier snap a picture while driving around it.

Canal Tours

If you want to experience Little Venice on the waters, then a guided canal tour is the perfect option for you.

For €8.00 per adult and €4.00 per child ages 4 and up, take a 25 minute guided tour through the canals of Colmar. Reservations can be made online up until the day of, and payment is due at time of tour.

Colmar Christmas Market

Although this is only during the holiday season, Colmar decorates the town in stunning Christmas decor, twinkling lights, large Christmas trees and more. The Colmar Christmas Market is an event that you do not want to miss while visiting during the holiday season.

The 2024 dates for the Colmar Christmas Markets are November 26th to December 29th, 2024.

Each of Colmar’s six Christmas Markets is a separate mini-village with its own collection of decorations. With 180 stalls scattered through the city, there is no doubt you will find something beautifully homemade, a traditional Advent speciality, or work of art.

Hours of the Colmar Christmas markets are Monday to Thursday: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm, and Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm. Make sure to bring cash if you plan on purchasing food, drink, or a souvenir.

Food & Drinks in Colmar

No visit to Colmar would be complete without indulging in its exquisite culinary offerings and sampling the region’s world-renowned wines.

CHEZ RAPHY AU CORDON BLEU DE COLMAR – With their speciality of Cordon Blue, this is a must restaurant to try while visiting the city. They offer different options of cordon blue in numerous ways. A reservation is a must while trying to eat here.

Restaurant Le 3 – Alsace restaurant that offers bistro dishes such as quiches or Alsatian tartes flambées with outdoor seating. Another highly rated restaurant where a reservation is recommended during busier hours.

Les Bateliers – Located right next to Petite Venice bridge, this Alsace restaurant offers a smaller menu, but with delicious food. We absolutely loved the Les Fleischkierler de Denise, which is minced pork and beef patties, as well as the desserts and kombucha.

Sahmeran – If you love Turkish food, you will love eating at Sahmeran. From kebabs to hot and cold meze, to Turkish wines, you will feel the true Turkish magic while dining here. Open for lunch and dinner hours.

Restaurant La Soï – The restaurant of the tarte flambée. Visit Restaurant La Soï to enjoy the best thinly crust pizzas a few steps from Little Venice. Open Friday – Tuesday for short lunch and dinner hours.

Jadis et Gourmande – They offer a small lunch menu from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, in addition to tarte flambée, salads, meats, and desserts. During the summer season, they also offer outdoor seating.

Day Trips from Colmar

Colmar is a beautiful city with its canals, half-timbered houses, and rich history. However, the magic of the Alsace region extends far beyond the borders of this charming town.

From medieval castles perched on hilltops to quaint villages nestled amidst vineyards, there is a wealth of beauty and culture to discover just a short drive or train ride away. Here are some of the best day trips from Colmar to help you explore the enchanting surroundings.

Riquewihr

This medieval gem is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Alsace.” This medieval village has preserved its historic charm with cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and fortified walls. As you wander through the village, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Riquewihr is located 13 km, 8 miles, away from Colmar and takes about 20 minutes by car. Highlights of the city include Dolder Tower, Thieves’ Tower, and many local, family-ran wineries to sample.

Eguisheim

Birthplace of Alsatian wine, Eguisheim is a delightful village known for its concentric cobblestone streets and flower-adorned houses. Voted as one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” Eguisheim is the birthplace of Pope Leo IX and a hub for Alsatian wine production.

Eguisheim is located 7 km, 4 miles, away from Colmar and takes about 15 minutes by car. Highlights in Eguisheim includes Saint-Leon IX Chapel and Castle of the Counts.

Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg

Perched atop the Vosges Mountains, Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg offers stunning views of the Alsace plain and the Black Forest. This meticulously restored castle dates back to the 12th century and provides a fascinating journey through medieval history.

Explore the castle’s halls, rooms, and courtyards, each showcasing the architectural splendor of the Middle Ages. The vantage point from the castle towers offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

On the drive from Strasbourg to Colmar, you’ll witness an abundance of castles and ruins on the side of the mountains. We saw Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg sitting on the very top and looking much more restored compared to majority of the ruins, so we decided to stop on a whim.

When we first drove up the steep hill, we were in total awe of the size. There was so much to see inside between all the different rooms and displays. We couldn’t recommend visiting this castle enough!

Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is located 26 km, 16 miles, away from Colmar, and takes about 35 minutes by car.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, is a vibrant city that blends French and German influences seamlessly. Known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and charming Petite France district, Strasbourg is a city of cultural and historical significance.

Visit the European Parliament and the Council of Europe to learn about the city’s role in European politics. Marvel at the intricate façade and the astronomical clock of the Strasbourg Cathedral. You can also wander through Petite France with its half-timbered houses, canals, and cobblestone streets.

Strasbourg is located 73 km, 45 miles, away from Colmar and takes about 40 minutes by train and 50 minutes by car.

Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr

Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr, two neighboring villages, offer a perfect combination of historical sites and natural beauty. Both villages are renowned for their wines and picturesque landscapes.

Explore the ruins of Château de Saint-Ulrich, a medieval castle perched on a hill overlooking the village. Visit Stork and Otter Reintroduction Centre, a wildlife park dedicated to the conservation of Alsace’s emblematic storks and otters.

Ribeauvillé and Hunawihr are located 18 km, 11 miles, from Colmar and takes about 25 minutes by car.

The Alsace Wine Route

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the oldest and most picturesque wine routes in France. Stretching from Marlenheim in the north to Thann in the south, this scenic drive takes you through rolling vineyards, charming villages, and historic towns.

Visit family-run wineries and cellars along the route, where you can sample a variety of Alsatian wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir. Stop in picturesque villages like Mittelbergheim, Bergheim, and Turckheim, each offering its own unique charm and attractions.

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Whether you’re drawn to Colmar’s rich history, exquisite cuisine, or stunning scenery, one thing is for sure: a day spent in this enchanting town is a day well spent. From exploring medieval churches to savoring fine wines, Colmar offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not pack your bags and embark on your own journey of discovery in this hidden gem of the Alsace region?