Colmar, located in the heart of the Alsace region in northeastern France, is a charming town known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant cultural heritage. Often referred to as the “Little Venice” of Alsace, Colmar boasts colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a rich history that spans centuries. The town’s unique blend of French and German influences, along with its famous wines and culinary delights, make it a delightful destination for travelers. Here are some of the best places to visit in Colmar, France:
1. La Petite Venise (Little Venice)
La Petite Venise is one of Colmar’s most picturesque and iconic neighborhoods, characterized by its quaint canals and colorful half-timbered houses. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views and numerous charming cafes and shops.
- Key Attractions: Canals, half-timbered houses.
- Activities: Walking, photography, dining.
- Location: Central Colmar.
2. Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden)
The Unterlinden Museum is a renowned museum housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent. The museum’s impressive collection includes the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, as well as works of art from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance and modern art pieces.
- Key Attractions: Isenheim Altarpiece, art collections.
- Activities: Exploring art exhibits, guided tours.
- Location: Place Unterlinden, Colmar.
3. Maison Pfister
Maison Pfister is a beautifully preserved Renaissance house dating back to 1537. It is one of Colmar’s most famous buildings, known for its ornate facade, wooden gallery, and octagonal turret. The house exemplifies the city’s rich architectural heritage.
- Key Attractions: Renaissance architecture, historic significance.
- Activities: Viewing the facade, taking photos.
- Location: Rue des Marchands, Colmar.
4. Saint Martin’s Church (Église Saint-Martin)
Saint Martin’s Church is a striking Gothic-style church located in the heart of Colmar. The church’s impressive architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit site. It is often referred to as Colmar’s cathedral.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, stained glass windows.
- Activities: Exploring the church, attending services.
- Location: Place de la Cathédrale, Colmar.
5. Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane)
The Koïfhus, also known as the Old Custom House, is a historic building that once served as a customs and administrative center. Built in the 15th century, it is Colmar’s oldest public building and now houses exhibitions and local craft shops.
- Key Attractions: Historic architecture, exhibitions.
- Activities: Visiting exhibitions, shopping for crafts.
- Location: Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Colmar.
6. Bartholdi Museum (Musée Bartholdi)
The Bartholdi Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the Colmar-born sculptor best known for designing the Statue of Liberty. The museum features personal artifacts, models, and original sculptures by Bartholdi.
- Key Attractions: Bartholdi’s sculptures, personal artifacts.
- Activities: Exploring exhibits, learning about Bartholdi’s life.
- Location: Rue des Marchands, Colmar.
7. Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall)
The Town Hall of Colmar, or Hôtel de Ville, is a notable example of Neoclassical architecture. The building, dating back to the 18th century, is located in the town’s center and features a grand facade and beautiful interior.
- Key Attractions: Neoclassical architecture.
- Activities: Viewing the architecture, attending public events.
- Location: Rue des Clefs, Colmar.
8. Marché Couvert (Covered Market)
The Marché Couvert is Colmar’s vibrant covered market, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties. The market is a great place to experience the local food culture and sample regional delicacies.
- Key Attractions: Fresh produce, local delicacies.
- Activities: Shopping, food tasting.
- Location: Rue des Vignerons, Colmar.
9. Parc du Champ de Mars
Parc du Champ de Mars is a beautiful public park in Colmar, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. The park features lush greenery, fountains, and statues, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center.
- Key Attractions: Green spaces, fountains, statues.
- Activities: Walking, picnicking, relaxing.
- Location: Central Colmar.
10. Domaine Viticole (Vineyards)
Colmar is located in the heart of the Alsace wine region, known for its excellent white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Visitors can tour the nearby vineyards and wine cellars, taste the local wines, and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
- Key Attractions: Alsace wines, scenic vineyards.
- Activities: Wine tasting, vineyard tours.
- Location: Surrounding areas of Colmar.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Petite Venise | Picturesque neighborhood with canals | Canals, half-timbered houses | Central Colmar |
| Unterlinden Museum | Renowned museum with art collections | Isenheim Altarpiece, medieval art | Place Unterlinden |
| Maison Pfister | Renaissance house with ornate facade | Renaissance architecture | Rue des Marchands |
| Saint Martin’s Church | Gothic church in the heart of Colmar | Gothic architecture, stained glass | Place de la Cathédrale |
| Koïfhus | Historic building with exhibitions and craft shops | Historic architecture | Place de l’Ancienne Douane |
| Bartholdi Museum | Museum dedicated to the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty | Bartholdi’s sculptures | Rue des Marchands |
| Hôtel de Ville | Neoclassical Town Hall | Neoclassical architecture | Rue des Clefs |
| Marché Couvert | Vibrant covered market | Fresh produce, local delicacies | Rue des Vignerons |
| Parc du Champ de Mars | Beautiful public park | Green spaces, fountains | Central Colmar |
| Domaine Viticole | Vineyards and wine cellars | Alsace wines, scenic vineyards | Surrounding areas |
How to Reach Colmar
By Flight
The nearest major airports to Colmar are EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg and Strasbourg Airport. Both airports offer international flights and are well-connected to Colmar by train and road. From the airports, you can reach Colmar by train, shuttle bus, or rental car.
By Train
Colmar is well-connected by train, with the Gare de Colmar offering services to major French cities, including Paris, Strasbourg, and Mulhouse. The high-speed TGV trains provide quick and convenient travel options.
By Road
Colmar is accessible via several major highways, including the A35. The city is well-connected by road to other parts of France and neighboring countries. Regular buses and car rental services are available for travel within the region.
Best Time to Visit Colmar
The best time to visit Colmar is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months (July to August) are also popular, with warm temperatures and numerous festivals. For a unique experience, visit during the Christmas season when the town hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Colmar offers a rich culinary scene with traditional Alsatian dishes such as choucroute (sauerkraut), tarte flambée (Alsatian pizza), and baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local wines, especially the whites.
- Cultural Insights: Colmar has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites. The town is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant arts scene, making it a great destination for history and art enthusiasts.
- Safety Tips: Colmar is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to La Petite Venise and explore the charming canals. Visit the Unterlinden Museum to see the Isenheim Altarpiece.
- Afternoon: Head to the Maison Pfister and Saint Martin’s Church. Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town.
- Evening: Stroll along Rue des Marchands and visit the Bartholdi Museum. End the day with a visit to the Marché Couvert and enjoy some local delicacies.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a visit to La Petite Venise, the Unterlinden Museum, and Maison Pfister. Explore Saint Martin’s Church and the Koïfhus. End the day with dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant.
- Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the vineyards and enjoying a wine-tasting tour. Visit the Parc du Champ de Mars for a relaxing afternoon. Finish the day with shopping and dining in the Old Town.
Colmar offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination to explore.
