Colmar Travel Guide

Introduction

Colmar, the capital of Alsatian wines, is a charming city located in the heart of the Alsace region of France near the German and Swiss borders. Often referred to as the "countryside town" due to its modest population of 67,000 inhabitants, Colmar boasts a well-preserved historical centre that has been classified as a protected area. The city's rich heritage spans from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, featuring a unique blend of French and German influences that is evident in its architecture and culture. Founded in the 9th century, Colmar played an important role in the wine and textile industries during medieval times. Visitors can explore its vast pedestrianised zone with colourful half-timbered houses, narrow canals that have earned it the nickname "Little Venice", and impressive religious and secular buildings such as the Gothic Saint Martin Church and the Renaissance Pfister House.

Interesting Facts about Colmar

• Colmar, located in the Alsace region of France, boasts a unique blend of German and French architecture due to its proximity to the border.
• The city's picturesque "Little Venice" district features charming canals lined with colourful half-timbered houses and flowering bridges.
• Auguste Bartholdi, sculptor of New York's Statue of Liberty, was born in Colmar, where a smaller replica stands near the city entrance.
• Storks nesting on rooftops and church towers are considered good luck symbols, with chocolate and toy versions sold throughout the city.
• Colmar's Christmas market, originally called christkindelsmärik in the Alsatian dialect, traditionally omits baby Jesus from nativity scenes until Christmas Eve.
• The 16th-century Maison des Têtes showcases 106 intricate carved heads adorning its Renaissance facade, now housing a luxury hotel.
• As the self-proclaimed "wine capital of Alsace," Colmar sits amidst 30 Grands Crus vineyards and hosts an annual August wine fair.
• Historical records show Colmar briefly belonged to Sweden during the Thirty Years' War before returning to French control.
• The 1863 discovery of the Colmar Treasure revealed hidden Jewish valuables buried during the Black Death persecutions.
• Local specialities include flammenkuchen (Alsatian pizza) and white mulled wine infused with citrus and star anise.

History

Colmar, first mentioned in 823 as "Columbarium" in a charter by Emperor Louis the Pious, son of Charlemagne, began as a Carolingian domain. The settlement gradually developed throughout the Middle Ages until it was granted the status of a free imperial city by Emperor Frederick II in 1226. This pivotal moment in Colmar's history marked the beginning of its rise to prominence, further enhanced when it joined the Décapole, a federation of ten imperial towns of Alsace, in 1354. During this period, religious orders established themselves in the city, constructing numerous churches and monastic buildings that still grace the historical centre today.

The 15th and 16th centuries represented Colmar's golden age, with prosperity flowing from its merchants, agriculture and particularly winemaking. However, the city's history was not without turbulence. The Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) brought great upheaval and ruin, and in 1635, Colmar was placed under the protection of the King of France whilst maintaining its imperial city status. The city's fate changed definitively with the Nimegue Treaty of 1679, when it became a royal town of France. Later, Colmar would experience further political changes, being annexed by the German Empire in 1871 following the Franco-Prussian War, returning to France after World War I, only to be annexed again by Nazi Germany in 1940 before finally reverting to French control after the battle of the "Colmar Pocket" in 1945.

Colmar's Jewish history is equally significant, with the first Jewish community believed to have settled around the middle of the 13th century. This community established a synagogue, mikveh, cemetery, and dance hall in their quarter. Tragically, during the Black Death persecutions of 1348, the Jews of Colmar were condemned to death and burnt at the stake the following year at a place still known today as "Judenloch." Though Jews were allowed to return in 1385, they faced increasing restrictions until being expelled in 1510. It wasn't until after the French Revolution in 1789 that Jews were again permitted to settle in Colmar. Today, the city stands as a testament to its rich and complex history, with its well-preserved old town, architectural landmarks, and museums telling the story of its past.

Main Attractions

La Petite Venise (Little Venice)

La Petite Venise stands as Colmar's most enchanting district, a picturesque area where the Lauch River winds through rows of colourful half-timbered houses. This charming neighbourhood earned its romantic nickname due to the striking resemblance to the famous Italian city, albeit on a much smaller scale. The waterways create a serene atmosphere as they flow gently beneath small bridges and alongside flower-adorned balconies. The buildings here showcase the distinctive Alsatian architecture with their vibrant façades in shades of pink, blue, yellow and green, creating a postcard-perfect scene that changes with the seasons. In spring and summer, the area bursts with colourful flowers, while autumn brings golden hues to the trees lining the waterways. During winter, especially around Christmas, the area transforms into a magical setting with subtle illuminations reflecting on the water. The district was historically home to market gardeners, fishmongers and boatmen who used the waterways for transportation and trade, giving the area its authentic character that persists to this day.

Colmar’s Old Town (Vieille Ville)

Colmar's Old Town encompasses much more than individual landmarks—it represents one of Europe's most well-preserved medieval and Renaissance urban landscapes. The historic centre stretches across approximately 20 hectares, containing hundreds of protected buildings dating from the 13th through 18th centuries. What makes Colmar's Old Town exceptional is not just individual structures but the harmonious whole they create—narrow winding streets follow medieval patterns, opening unexpectedly into small squares with fountains or monuments. The area's remarkable preservation stems partly from Colmar's fortunate escape from major bombing during both World Wars, leaving intact urban patterns and structures that disappeared from many other European cities. The Old Town showcases the distinctive Alsatian architectural style that blends Germanic and French influences—half-timbered upper stories sit atop stone ground floors, with exposed wooden beams creating geometric patterns against colourfully painted plaster. Ornate wrought-iron shop signs extend from many buildings, continuing a medieval tradition of visual advertising. Throughout the Old Town, small canals and waterways remind visitors of Colmar's historical relationship with water transport and trade. The entire area maintains a human scale, with buildings rarely exceeding four stories, creating an intimate atmosphere that encourages exploration on foot. While individual buildings may draw attention for their particular historical or architectural significance, it is the cohesive character of the entire Old Town that creates Colmar's unique sense of place.

Quartier des Tanneurs (Tanners' District)

The Tanners' District represents one of Colmar's most historically significant neighbourhoods, where leather craftsmen once plied their trade from the Middle Ages through the early 20th century. The distinctive architecture here directly reflects the tanners' profession—tall, narrow buildings with multiple stories feature characteristic wide-open top floors with wooden shutters that once served as drying areas for animal hides. These imposing structures stand shoulder to shoulder along narrow cobblestone streets, creating intimate passageways that transport visitors back in time. The buildings' façades display remarkable preservation, with exposed wooden beams creating geometric patterns against plastered walls painted in earthy tones of ochre, rust and cream. Many buildings date from the 17th and 18th centuries, though some foundations are even older. The district's authentic character remains largely untouched by modern development, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into Colmar's industrial past. The area becomes particularly atmospheric in the evening when subtle lighting accentuates the architectural details and fewer visitors allow for a more contemplative experience.

Place de l'Ancienne Douane & Koïfhus

Place de l'Ancienne Douane forms one of Colmar's most important historic squares, serving as a central gathering place since medieval times. This expansive open area is framed by magnificent buildings showcasing various architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance and beyond. At the square's heart stands the Schwendi Fountain, erected in 1898 to honour Lazarus von Schwendi, a 16th-century military commander credited with introducing Tokay grape varieties to Alsace, fundamentally shaping the region's renowned wine industry. The fountain's statue depicts von Schwendi holding a grape vine, symbolising this important contribution to local viticulture.

The Koïfhus dominates one side of the square, standing as Colmar's oldest public building with origins dating to 1480. This impressive Renaissance structure served dual purposes throughout its history—the ground floor functioned as a warehouse for goods in transit, while the upper floor housed the customs office where merchants paid taxes on imported merchandise. The building's distinctive features include a steep pitched roof with dormer windows, an external staircase tower, and ornate stonework around windows and doorways. Its name derives from the German "Kaufhaus" (trading house), reflecting the region's linguistic heritage. The building's warm pink sandstone exterior and decorative elements make it one of Colmar's most photographed landmarks, representing the town's historic importance as a trading centre.

Maison Pfister

Maison Pfister stands as one of Colmar's architectural treasures, embodying the sophisticated Renaissance style that flourished during the city's golden age. Built in 1537 for Ludwig Scherer, a wealthy hatter and silver merchant, this remarkable residence showcases the prosperity of Colmar's merchant class during the 16th century. The building's most striking features include an octagonal turret extending over three floors, an ornate wooden gallery with intricate carvings, and a distinctive corner oriel window that allowed residents to observe street life from multiple angles. What truly distinguishes the house, however, are its remarkable painted murals depicting biblical scenes and portraits of Germanic emperors, reflecting the cultural and religious values of the period. These paintings, though weathered by time, remain visible on the façade, offering visitors a glimpse into Renaissance artistic sensibilities. The house takes its name from the Pfister family who owned it during the 19th century, though they were far from its first inhabitants. Recently restored to preserve its historical integrity, Maison Pfister represents the pinnacle of Alsatian Renaissance domestic architecture and stands as a testament to Colmar's historical importance as a centre of commerce and culture.

Maison Adolph

Maison Adolph holds the distinction of being one of Colmar's oldest surviving residential buildings, with its foundations dating back to 1350. This remarkable medieval structure offers visitors a rare glimpse into the architectural styles of 14th-century Alsace, predating many of the city's more famous Renaissance buildings by nearly two centuries. The house features a classic half-timbered construction with a distinctive framework of wooden beams creating geometric patterns across its façade. Unlike later buildings in Colmar, Maison Adolph displays a more austere medieval aesthetic, with fewer decorative elements and a focus on sturdy, practical construction techniques that have allowed it to survive for over 670 years. The ground floor, slightly modified over centuries to accommodate commercial uses, retains elements of its original stone archways. The upper floors maintain more of their medieval character, with small windows and exposed wooden structural elements visible throughout. The building's survival through wars, fires, and centuries of urban development makes it an exceptional historical document in architectural form, offering insights into domestic life during the late Middle Ages in Alsace.

La Maison Des Têtes (The House of Heads)

La Maison Des Têtes stands as one of Colmar's most eccentric architectural landmarks, immediately recognisable by the 106 small sculptured heads that adorn its ornate Renaissance façade. Constructed between 1609 and 1610 for the wealthy merchant Anton Burger, this imposing building represents the height of decorative excess during the German Renaissance period. The grotesque masks and faces that give the house its name range from realistic human portraits to fantastical creatures and mythological figures, creating a somewhat unsettling but undeniably fascinating visual experience. Beyond these smaller decorative elements, the building's façade culminates in a larger sculpture by Bartholdi (Colmar's famous son who later created the Statue of Liberty) depicting a cooper—a barrel maker—reflecting the building's later connection to the wine trade. The structure itself exemplifies the sophisticated urban architecture of the period with its imposing height, steep roof with multiple dormer windows, and balanced proportions. The interior, though modified over centuries, retains period features including wooden beams, stone archways, and an impressive staircase. The building's survival through tumultuous periods of Colmar's history, including wars and changes in national identity between France and Germany, makes it not just an architectural curiosity but a testament to the enduring cultural heritage of the Alsace region.

Rue des Marchands

Rue des Marchands cuts through the heart of Colmar's historic commercial district, representing centuries of mercantile tradition in this prosperous trading town. This relatively straight thoroughfare, unusual in Colmar's otherwise winding medieval street pattern, indicates its importance as a main commercial artery since at least the 14th century. The street features an exceptional concentration of merchant houses, their ground floors historically serving as shops and workshops while upper floors provided living quarters for wealthy trading families. The buildings display architectural elements that specifically accommodated commercial activities—wide doorways that could admit goods, large ground-floor windows for displaying merchandise, and in some cases, pulley systems still visible on upper floors for lifting heavy items to storage areas. Many structures feature ornate stone ground floors supporting half-timbered upper stories, demonstrating the wealth of their original merchant owners who could afford such substantial construction. The street's name directly references its historical function, with "marchands" simply meaning "merchants" in French. Unlike some of Colmar's more tourist-oriented areas, Rue des Marchands maintains its commercial character today, with shops and businesses occupying many ground-floor spaces, creating a living connection to the street's historical purpose. The relatively wide dimensions of the street compared to other medieval passages reflects its importance for the movement of goods and people during Colmar's commercial heyday.

Place des 6 Montagnes Noires

Place des 6 Montagnes Noires offers visitors a tranquil respite from the busier areas of Colmar while still showcasing the city's characteristic charm. This intimate square takes its unusual name ("Square of the Six Black Mountains") from a historic inn that once stood on this site, which itself referenced mountain peaks visible from the Alsace region. The square's centrepiece is the Roesselmann Fountain, dedicated to Jean Roesselmann, a local hero who defended Colmar against besieging forces in the 13th century. The fountain's design incorporates elements of medieval symbolism alongside classical motifs, creating a distinctive focal point. Surrounding the square are well-preserved examples of traditional Alsatian architecture, including half-timbered buildings with flower-bedecked balconies and colourful façades. Unlike some of Colmar's more famous locations, this square retains a more authentic, lived-in atmosphere, with local residents still occupying many of the buildings. The square's proximity to the Lauch River and Little Venice district makes it an ideal stopping point when exploring the eastern portions of the old town. During warmer months, the square comes alive with outdoor seating from nearby cafés, creating an inviting atmosphere for both visitors and locals alike.

Covered Market (Marché couvert)

The Covered Market of Colmar represents both a historical landmark and a living tradition of Alsatian food culture. Constructed in 1865 during a period of German control of the region, the market building exemplifies the industrial architectural style of the late 19th century, with its distinctive combination of brick, iron, and glass. The structure's strategic location alongside the Lauch River is no coincidence—it was specifically positioned to allow market gardeners from surrounding villages to transport their produce directly to market via flat-bottomed boats, creating an efficient farm-to-table system long before such concepts became fashionable. The building's design incorporates large windows and skylights that flood the interior with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for commerce. The market hall's interior features original cast-iron columns and framework that support the soaring ceiling, demonstrating the engineering capabilities of the era. While the building itself holds historical significance, the market continues to function as a vital community space where locals and visitors alike can experience the authentic flavours of Alsace. The market represents a direct link to Colmar's agricultural heritage and the continuing importance of regional food traditions in Alsatian cultural identity.

Quai de la Poissonnerie

Quai de la Poissonnerie represents one of Colmar's most photogenic streets, running alongside a section of the Lauch River in the heart of the Little Venice district. This picturesque thoroughfare earned its name from the fishmongers who historically sold their fresh catches here, taking advantage of the direct access to waterways. The street features a remarkable collection of half-timbered houses dating primarily from the 17th and 18th centuries, though some structures incorporate elements from earlier periods. What distinguishes this quay from other areas of Colmar is the direct relationship between the buildings and the water—many structures feature small wooden balconies and terraces that extend toward the canal, creating a distinctive architectural dialogue between land and water. The buildings themselves showcase the evolution of the half-timbered construction technique, with variations in the patterns of exposed beams reflecting different periods and styles. Many structures feature ground floors slightly elevated above street level—a practical solution to occasional flooding that has affected this area throughout its history. The quay's gentle curve follows the natural path of the waterway, creating constantly changing perspectives as visitors walk its length. The area takes on different characters throughout the day, from the soft morning light that illuminates the eastern façades to the golden evening glow that transforms the entire street into a scene of remarkable warmth and depth.

Champ de Mars

The Champ de Mars provides Colmar with its most significant green space, offering both residents and visitors a refreshing contrast to the dense medieval streets of the Old Town. This expansive park dates to the early 19th century when it was established on former military parade grounds—hence its name, shared with the more famous Champ de Mars in Paris. The park follows the French formal garden tradition with geometrically arranged pathways, carefully placed tree plantings, and ornamental flower beds that change with the seasons. Mature plane trees and chestnuts provide welcome shade during summer months, while spring brings magnificent displays of tulips and other bulb flowers. The park contains several notable monuments, including a memorial to Colmar residents who died during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71, reflecting the region's contested history between France and Germany. The bandstand dating from the late 19th century still hosts occasional concerts during summer months, continuing a tradition of public music that stretches back generations. The park's location adjacent to the medieval centre makes it an ideal place for visitors to rest between explorations of the more intensive historic districts. The contrast between the park's open spaces and ordered plantings and the organic, sometimes chaotic growth of the medieval city offers an interesting perspective on different approaches to urban planning across centuries.

Statue of Liberty

Colmar's Statue of Liberty creates an unexpected connection between this Alsatian town and New York City through the legacy of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, Colmar's most famous son. This scaled-down replica stands as a tribute to the sculptor who created the original Statue of Liberty that has welcomed immigrants to America since 1886. The Colmar statue, while considerably smaller than its American counterpart at just 12 metres tall, faithfully reproduces Bartholdi's iconic design with Liberty holding her torch aloft and clutching a tablet inscribed with the date of American independence. The statue was erected in 2004 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Bartholdi's death and to celebrate Colmar's connection to this globally recognised symbol of freedom. The statue's copper-green patina intentionally mimics the weathered appearance of the original in New York Harbor. Though located away from the historic centre in a modern roundabout, the statue creates a thought-provoking juxtaposition between Colmar's medieval architecture and this symbol of 19th-century Franco-American cooperation. The monument serves as a reminder of how a son of Colmar created one of the world's most recognisable sculptures and how artistic influence can transcend national boundaries.

Bartholdi District

The Bartholdi District represents Colmar's expansion beyond its medieval walls during the 19th century, offering visitors a different architectural perspective than the half-timbered buildings of the Old Town. This neighbourhood developed during a period when Colmar was under German control following the Franco-Prussian War, and the architecture reflects the grand Wilhelmine style popular during this era. Wide, straight boulevards replace the winding medieval streets of the historic centre, creating a more ordered urban experience. The district takes its name from Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, Colmar's famous sculptor who created the Statue of Liberty, and whose family home can be found in this area. Buildings here typically rise three to four stories with symmetrical façades featuring decorative elements drawn from classical, Renaissance, and Baroque traditions. Many structures incorporate distinctive red Vosges sandstone, creating a warm, distinctive appearance. Public buildings from this period, including the former Imperial Post Office and various administrative structures, demonstrate particularly elaborate architectural treatments with decorative sculptures, ornate cornices, and imposing entrances designed to convey authority and permanence. The district also contains several small squares and parks laid out according to 19th-century urban planning principles, providing green spaces within the urban fabric. While less frequented by tourists than the medieval centre, the Bartholdi District offers insights into Colmar's development during a period of industrial growth and changing national identity.

Top Museums

Art and History Museums

Unterlinden Museum

The Unterlinden Museum, a true gem of Colmar, resides within a meticulously preserved 13th-century Dominican convent. This setting alone lends an air of historical significance to the visitor's experience. The museum's collection is a testament to the artistic evolution of the region, spanning from the medieval period to the Renaissance and beyond. Its most prized possession, and a major draw for art enthusiasts worldwide, is the Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald. This monumental polyptych is an awe-inspiring creation, renowned for its vivid imagery, emotional intensity, and intricate detail. Beyond the Altarpiece, the museum features a rich array of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that provide a comprehensive overview of the region's artistic heritage. The architecture of the building itself, with its serene cloisters and soaring vaulted ceilings, adds another layer of appreciation to the art it houses. A modern extension seamlessly integrates with the historic structure, creating a harmonious blend of old and new that enhances the overall visitor experience.

Bartholdi Museum

Located in the very house where Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the visionary behind the Statue of Liberty, was born, the Bartholdi Museum offers an intimate glimpse into the life and work of this celebrated sculptor. The museum's exhibits trace Bartholdi's career from his early artistic explorations to his monumental achievements, showcasing his versatility and creative genius. Visitors can view original sculptures created for the town of Colmar, providing a tangible connection to his local roots. The displays also include models, drawings, and photographs that illuminate the creative process behind his iconic works, including the Statue of Liberty. Personal artefacts, such as furniture and tools, offer insights into his daily life and artistic practice. The Bartholdi Museum provides not only an understanding of the artist’s works, but also of the man himself, set against the backdrop of the charming Alsatian house where he spent his formative years.

Speciality Museums

Choco-Story Colmar

For those seeking a delectable escape, Choco-Story Colmar offers an immersive journey into the world of chocolate. This isn't just a museum; it's an interactive experience that delights the senses. Visitors are taken on a historical adventure, exploring the origins of chocolate, its cultural significance across different civilisations, and the intricate processes involved in its production. The museum engages all the senses, with opportunities to see chocolate being made, smell the rich aromas, and, of course, taste a variety of delicious chocolates. Educational exhibits delve into the health benefits of chocolate, the artistry of chocolate making, and the ethical considerations of the chocolate industry. Choco-Story Colmar provides a satisfying and informative experience for chocolate lovers of all ages.

Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)

Step into a world of nostalgia and childhood wonder at the Toy Museum, housed in a beautifully repurposed former cinema. This museum celebrates the evolution of play, showcasing an extensive collection of toys that span from the 19th century to the present day. Dolls, trains, board games, construction sets, and a myriad of other playthings are meticulously displayed, offering a fascinating glimpse into the changing tastes and trends of generations past. One of the museum's most impressive features is a vast, fully functional model railway network, complete with intricate landscapes, miniature trains, and charming details. The Toy Museum is not just for children; it's an engaging experience for adults as well, evoking fond memories and providing a unique perspective on social history through the lens of play.

The Village Hansi & its Museum

The Village Hansi & its Museum provides a charming and immersive experience into the world of Jean-Jacques Waltz, better known as "Hansi," a beloved Alsatian artist. This museum lovingly recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Alsatian village, bringing Hansi's idyllic depictions of the region to life. Hansi was famous for his charming illustrations that celebrated Alsatian culture, traditions, and the beauty of its landscapes. His artwork often portrayed scenes of daily life, capturing the warmth and conviviality of the region's people. The museum features a collection of Hansi's original artwork, showcasing his distinctive style and his deep affection for Alsace. Visitors can stroll through the recreated village, peeking into the windows of traditional houses and immersing themselves in the world that Hansi so lovingly depicted. This museum offers a unique and nostalgic journey into the heart of Alsatian culture.

Science and Nature

Museum of Natural History and Ethnography

This museum is a treasure trove of information about the natural history and cultural heritage of the Alsace region. The Natural History section showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the area, from its forests and mountains to its rivers and wetlands. Exhibits explore the geological history of the region, the evolution of its landscapes, and the impact of human activity on the environment. The Ethnography section focuses on the cultural traditions, customs, and lifestyles of the people who have inhabited the Alsace region throughout history. Artefacts, costumes, and tools are displayed, providing insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the local population. The Museum of Natural History and Ethnography offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the region's natural and cultural heritage.

Industrial Heritage

Musée des Usines Municipales de Colmar

The Musée des Usines Municipales de Colmar is a testament to the industrial evolution of the city. This museum offers a fascinating look at the infrastructure and services that have shaped Colmar over the years. Through exhibits and displays, visitors can learn about the development of essential services like water, gas, and electricity, and how these utilities impacted the lives of Colmar's residents. The museum also showcases the machinery, equipment, and technologies that were used to provide these services, offering insights into the engineering and innovation that drove the city's growth.

Wine and Culinary Culture

Alsatian Wines Museum

Located in a region renowned for its viticultural excellence, the Alsatian Wines Museum offers a fascinating exploration of the history, traditions, and artistry of winemaking in Alsace. Visitors can learn about the unique grape varietals that thrive in the region, the terroir that gives Alsatian wines their distinctive character, and the meticulous processes involved in producing these world-class wines. The museum showcases the tools and techniques used by generations of winemakers, from traditional wooden presses to modern stainless steel tanks. Exhibits also delve into the cultural significance of wine in the Alsace region, its role in local celebrations, and its importance to the region's economy. The Alsatian Wines Museum is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Alsace.

Local Cuisine

Colmar, the capital of Alsace Wine Country, is a gastronomic delight where traditional recipes have been passed down through generations. The local cuisine beautifully blends French and German influences, creating a unique culinary identity. Visitors must sample choucroute, the signature dish of fermented cabbage served with various meats, and flammekueche (tarte flambée), a delicious flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions and lardons. Other regional specialties include baeckeoffe, a slow-cooked casserole of marinated meats and potatoes, and fleischnacka, meat-filled "snails" made with noodle dough. For cheese lovers, the pungent Munster from the nearby valley is a must-try. Sweet treats abound with the brioche-like kougelhopf studded with raisins, streusel pastries, and seasonal delights like rhubarb meringue pie. Complement your meal with the region's exceptional wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer, or warm up with a mug of spiced mulled wine if visiting during the festive Christmas markets.

Shopping

The historic centre is filled with boutiques selling "made in Alsace" products, including textiles, home décor, accessories and local delicacies. Popular shops include Avenue d'Alsace for textiles, Bretzel Airlines for souvenirs, and La Magie de Noël for Christmas decorations. For food enthusiasts, the covered market is open Tuesday to Sunday, housing quality vendors selling local specialities like organic breads, pastries, kougelhopf, foie gras and regional cheeses. Notable food establishments include L'Enfariné bakery and Fromagerie Saint-Nicolas cheese shop. Other shopping destinations include Coeur Paysan for products from local producers, La Sommelière wine shop, and chocolate shops like Jacques Bockel offering the famous Nut'Alsace. The outdoor market features local merchants, while antique shops throughout town attract bargain hunters, particularly on Fridays.

Nature in and around Colmar

Colmar and its surrounding area offer several natural attractions for visitors to enjoy. The city itself features the picturesque La Petite Venise (Little Venice), where the Lauch River winds through colourful half-timbered houses. Just outside Colmar, the Alsace Wine Route provides stunning views of rolling vineyards and charming villages. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Vosges Mountains, with hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints such as the Grand Ballon, the highest peak in the range. The Lac du Ballon, a scenic mountain lake, offers a tranquil setting for walks and picnics. For those interested in cycling, the region boasts numerous bike paths through the countryside, including routes along the Canal de La Lauch. The area's natural beauty is particularly striking in autumn when the vineyards are adorned with golden hues.

Getting There & Around

Colmar is easily accessible via various transport options. The fastest way is by train, with direct services from Paris Gare de l'Est taking approximately 2.5 hours, from Strasbourg in just 30 minutes, or from Basel in about 45 minutes. If flying, you can arrive at the small Strasbourg airport, Basel Europort (which serves both France and Switzerland), or larger international airports in Paris or Zürich. For budget-conscious travellers, buses connect Colmar to several cities, with fares starting from as little as 6 euros. From Germany, there's a convenient bus service from Breisach to Colmar taking 30-40 minutes and costing 4.3 euros. Once in Colmar, the efficient TRACE bus network provides quick and easy access throughout the town. For exploring the charming villages of the Alsace region, consider the hop-on/hop-off open-top bus service from Colmar to six nearby medieval towns, or hire a tourist taxi for more flexibility.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Colmar largely depends on your preferences, but generally, the period from mid-May to mid-September offers the most pleasant weather for exploring this charming Alsatian town. During these months, you can expect warm temperatures ranging from 19°C to 25°C, with July being the hottest and sunniest month. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, resulting in higher prices and larger crowds. For a quieter experience with mild weather and fewer tourists, consider visiting in late spring (April to early May) or early autumn (September to October). These shoulder seasons provide comfortable temperatures and the opportunity to witness either the blooming flowers or the golden hues of the surrounding vineyards. Winter, particularly December, is another popular time to visit Colmar, as the town transforms into a festive wonderland with its renowned Christmas markets, despite the chilly temperatures hovering around freezing.