Colmar sits in the heart of France’s Alsace wine region and is famed for its remarkably preserved old town bursting with half-timbered houses, meandering canals, and cobblestone lanes. This quaint city feels like wandering through a living fairy tale, with pastel facades draped in flowers and a relaxed pace that invites you to slow down and savor every detail. Colmar’s unique blend of French and German influences shapes everything, from architecture to cuisine and dialect.
Exploring Colmar means discovering the Little Venice district, where narrow boats glide down tree-lined waterways flanked by picturesque homes. The city’s must-sees include the Unterlinden Museum—home to the iconic Isenheim Altarpiece—and the striking St. Martin’s Collegiate Church. Visitors can stroll along Rue des Marchands to admire historic merchant houses, like Maison Pfister, or delve into Alsatian culture at the Toy Museum and Bartholdi Museum, named after the Statue of Liberty’s creator.
Colmar’s atmosphere is festive yet laid-back, especially during seasonal events like the famous Christmas markets, which transform the town into a winter wonderland. Terraces brim with people tasting local wines and tarte flambée under the shadow of gothic spires and Renaissance balconies. Neighborhood bakeries and winstubs offer a warm welcome, whether you're after a croissant in the morning or a glass of Gewürztraminer in the evening.
Getting around Colmar is easy—its historic center is best explored on foot or by renting a bicycle. There’s a range of charming boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses in converted mansions. Dining options are abundant, from casual bakeries to atmospheric taverns specializing in Alsatian dishes. Day trips to the nearby Route des Vins or dreamy villages like Eguisheim are highly recommended. While Colmar can get busy on weekends or during major festivals, mornings often feel calm and intimate.
The best times to visit are spring and early autumn, with mild weather and fewer crowds, though the city’s summer flower displays and December festivities are truly memorable. To capture the most vibrant photos and enjoy peaceful walks, try exploring early in the day or in the golden evening light. Don’t forget to sample local cheeses and white wines, and keep some euro coins handy for spontaneous canal boat rides and sweet treats along the way.
Exploring Colmar means discovering the Little Venice district, where narrow boats glide down tree-lined waterways flanked by picturesque homes. The city’s must-sees include the Unterlinden Museum—home to the iconic Isenheim Altarpiece—and the striking St. Martin’s Collegiate Church. Visitors can stroll along Rue des Marchands to admire historic merchant houses, like Maison Pfister, or delve into Alsatian culture at the Toy Museum and Bartholdi Museum, named after the Statue of Liberty’s creator.
Colmar’s atmosphere is festive yet laid-back, especially during seasonal events like the famous Christmas markets, which transform the town into a winter wonderland. Terraces brim with people tasting local wines and tarte flambée under the shadow of gothic spires and Renaissance balconies. Neighborhood bakeries and winstubs offer a warm welcome, whether you're after a croissant in the morning or a glass of Gewürztraminer in the evening.
Getting around Colmar is easy—its historic center is best explored on foot or by renting a bicycle. There’s a range of charming boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses in converted mansions. Dining options are abundant, from casual bakeries to atmospheric taverns specializing in Alsatian dishes. Day trips to the nearby Route des Vins or dreamy villages like Eguisheim are highly recommended. While Colmar can get busy on weekends or during major festivals, mornings often feel calm and intimate.
The best times to visit are spring and early autumn, with mild weather and fewer crowds, though the city’s summer flower displays and December festivities are truly memorable. To capture the most vibrant photos and enjoy peaceful walks, try exploring early in the day or in the golden evening light. Don’t forget to sample local cheeses and white wines, and keep some euro coins handy for spontaneous canal boat rides and sweet treats along the way.
Expected Weekly Budget
$900-$1400 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Stroll through the old town and admire colorful half-timbered houses
- Explore the Little Venice canal district by boat
- Visit the Unterlinden Museum for art and history
- Taste Alsatian wines at local cellars and bars
- Enjoy seasonal festivals and the magical Christmas markets
- Relax in a café on Place de la Cathédrale
- Tour the Maison Pfister and other historic homes
- Sample traditional dishes like choucroute and tarte flambée
Notable Sites
- Unterlinden Museum
- Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
- Maison Pfister
- St. Martin’s Collegiate Church
- Bartholdi Museum
- Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)
- Ancienne Douane (Koïfhus)
- House of Heads (Maison des Têtes)
General Advice
Colmar is a compact, walkable city perfect for relaxed sightseeing and cultural exploration. Plan on spending at least two or three days to fully enjoy the old town, indulge in regional cuisine, and perhaps venture into the nearby vineyards or Alsatian villages. English is spoken in most tourist spots, but a few words of French or German are appreciated. The local tourism office is helpful for maps, festival info, and day-trip ideas.
Security & Safety
Colmar is generally very safe, even at night, but as in any popular tourist destination, watch out for pickpockets in busy pedestrian areas and around markets. Keep your bags zipped and avoid leaving valuables unattended at cafes or on the canal-side. If driving, avoid leaving belongings visible in parked cars. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.
Travel Tips
- Purchase tickets ahead for popular museums like Unterlinden, especially in high season
- If visiting during Christmas, book hotels months in advance
- Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets
- Bring a reusable water bottle—the tap water is excellent
- Try the winstubs (local taverns) for authentic Alsatian fare
- Rent a bike or use the Petit Train for an easy overview of the city
- Take a day trip to Eguisheim or the Route des Vins for countryside charm
- Shops often close for lunch and early evenings, so plan accordingly
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Traveler Comments
Visited in December 2023
Colmar at Christmas is like nothing I’ve ever seen—the entire town glows. The markets are magical but quite crowded by mid-afternoon, so go early. We loved wandering the Little Venice area with mulled wine in hand.
Traveled here in May 2024
My partner and I spent three days exploring Colmar. The streets are a photographer’s dream and the food was incredible. Sitting along the canal with a glass of local white wine became our daily ritual.
Stayed in July 2023
Colmar is beautiful, but gets very touristy during summer. The Toy Museum was a hit with our kids, and we all enjoyed the canal boat ride. Alsatian tarts and pastries are not to be missed!
Visited in September 2023
Fantastic town for art lovers—Unterlinden Museum alone is worth the trip. I appreciated the multilingual signs and friendly locals. Prices are a bit high in the tourist center but overall totally worth it.
Visited in April 2024
Went on a solo trip and felt completely safe walking around at night. Loved the colorful buildings and the easy train access from Strasbourg. My favorite meal was tarte flambée with local wine at a corner winstub.
Visited in June 2024
The boat tour through Little Venice was so relaxing. We loved the old architecture, especially Maison Pfister. Only downside was that parking near the center can be tricky on weekends.
Traveled here in October 2023
We came during grape harvest and the atmosphere was festive. The local wines are delicious and the countryside is stunning. Wish there were more kid-friendly menus at restaurants, but the bakeries saved the day.
Visited in February 2024
Colmar is as picturesque in winter as in any postcard. The architecture is so distinctive, and I spent hours just wandering with my camera. Highly recommend the almond croissants!
Stayed in March 2024
We used Colmar as a base to explore several Alsatian villages. Public transport worked well and the city itself is wonderful for history buffs. Didn’t expect to love the Bartholdi Museum as much as I did!
Traveled here in August 2023
Super pretty town though very busy with tourists in August. Getting lost in the backstreets was the best way to escape the crowds. My kids liked the little tourist train ride.
Visited in November 2023
Colmar was absolutely charming, even with gray skies. The wine tasting was a highlight, and I found some unique souvenirs at small shops off the main street. Would definitely return for the Christmas markets someday.
Traveled here in March 2024
A dream for fans of fairy-tale towns. The Little Venice area is as photogenic as everyone says. Favorite moment was listening to live accordion music at Place des Dominicains.
Stayed in January 2024
Came in winter after the holidays so things were quieter, which was nice. Some restaurants close early though. Loved the stained glass and art in the churches.
Visited in June 2023
The guided walking tour was really informative, and our guide shared great local tips. Ate way too much kugelhopf but don’t regret it! Shops shut for a few hours after lunch—good to know if you’re planning your day.
Traveled here in May 2024
Really enjoyed the relaxed pace compared to bigger cities. Easy to see a lot on foot and plenty of quiet corners to sit with a coffee. Perfect place for a romantic weekend.
Visited in September 2023
The historic old town is like a movie set. Enjoyed day-tripping to Eguisheim as well. Only complaint: a bit expensive in peak tourist season, but it’s so unique I get why.
Visited in December 2023
We brought our teenage kids for the Christmas lights and markets. Everyone loved the festive decorations and gingerbread treats. Just prepare for large crowds in the evenings during the holidays.
Traveled here in March 2024
As a solo traveler, I found Colmar very easy to navigate. People were so welcoming and I joined a group wine tasting which was both fun and tasty. Learned a lot about Alsatian wines!
Visited in May 2023
The city’s storybook look is real—so many picture spots. Attractions are close together so you don’t need a car. Could’ve done with more affordable places for dinner, but lunch menus were reasonable.
Stayed in November 2023
Had a wonderful time exploring museums and sampling local cheese. Even in the off-season, Colmar feels lively and welcoming. Make time for the House of Heads—so interesting!
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