The jewel of the Grand Est region, Colmar is a city of countless charms. Located in the heart of Alsace's vineyards, it boasts a remarkable medieval and Renaissance heritage. The little Venice of Alsace invites you to lose yourself in its narrow streets, walk along its canals and marvel at the colors and details of its buildings. You can also take the time to visit its museums, sample some of the great local vintages and enjoy the very best in gastronomy. Colmar is an endearing city, where you can come in search of peace and quiet as much as to vibrate to the rhythm of its evenings and festivals. It's a destination you'll want to explore on both sides. Here are 15 must-do activities in the Haut-Rhin prefecture.
1. Stroll through Colmar's neighborhoods
For many, Colmar is the most beautiful city in Alsace. Its rich heritage is waiting to be discovered as you stroll through its different districts. Start by strolling along the Lauch River to admire the colorful half-timbered houses. It's easy to see why the river is nicknamed Little Venice. These superb houses, typical of Colmar, can be found later in the Tanneurs district. They date from the 17thand 18th centuries. Another historic area is well worth a visit. This is the Quai de la Poissonnerie, lined with colorful half-timbered fishermen's houses. We warn you, your Instagram account is likely to catch fire!
We also recommend that you book a guided tour of Colmar right here , to find out everything there is to know about Colmar and its must-sees and must-visits.
2. See the most beautiful religious buildings
A stroll through Colmar is an opportunity to stop and admire its main religious buildings. Built between 1235 and 1365, the collegiate church of Saint-Martin is a significant example of Gothic architecture in Alsace. The Dominican church, built in the 14th century, is a vast edifice that also houses a Dominican convent. Magnificent period stained glass windows can be admired here. Another must-see is the Vierge au buisson de rose, a 15th-century wooden altarpiece. Imposing in stature, Saint-Matthieu church is another must-see building. It became a Protestant church in 1575 and contains some very fine religious paintings. Last but not least, Saint-Pierre chapel, built between 1742 and 1750 in a sober Baroque style.
3. Visit Colmar by boat
Visitors wishing to discover part of Colmar in an original way can opt for a boat trip. It's highly recommended to climb aboard a flat-bottomed boat, similar to those used in the Middle Ages, to sail along the Lauch and appreciate the authenticity of the Petite Venise district. This outing offers an opportunity to admire the charming half-timbered houses in a peaceful atmosphere. What's more, the boatman acts as a guide, passing on a wealth of information about the history of the area. A great adventure for two, family or friends in Colmar, a wonderful destination for a May weekend in France.
4. Admire Colmar's most beautiful homes
A striking feature of Colmar is the impressive architecture of some of its buildings. Built around 1350, the Maison Adolph is considered one of the city's oldest. Its Gothic windows are reminiscent of a religious building. A magnificent monument to the German Renaissance, the Maison des Têtes (House of the Heads ) is so named because 106 sculpted, grimacing faces adorn its façade. It houses a 5-star hotel and a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant. The tour continues with the Maison Pfister, built in 1537 in the purest Alsatian style. With its octagonal turret, wood panelling and magnificent murals, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful monuments to photograph in Colmar.
5. Visit the covered market
When we visit a town, we love to discover the places dedicated to gastronomy. In Colmar, the covered market is housed in a beautiful building designed by architect Louis-Michel Boltz in 1865, and is much more than just a place to shop; it's a place where know-how and quality come together. Craftsmen and shopkeepers celebrate the terroir through a wide variety of products. Take time to stroll the aisles and admire the colorful stalls. You can also enjoy a drink at the bar or sit down at one of the tables to savour the regional gastronomy.
6. Go green in the parks and squares
Visitors to Colmar are spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying nature and taking a breather. Whether you go for a stroll or a short rest in the Parc du Château d'Eau, the Champ de Mars or the Square Adolph Hin, you're sure to fall in love with the landscaping and the many trees, plants and decorative elements such as statues. During a city trip with children, you can plan to spend some time in the Parc Méquillet, which is fully enclosed and features play areas with slides, rope walls and swings. These different areas make a visit to Colmar even more enjoyable.
7. Strolling through the Underliten Museum
The musée Underliten is housed in a former Dominican convent founded in 1252. This magnificent building houses a remarkable collection of sculptures and paintings from the late Middle Ages and Renaissance, as well as collections of archaeology and decorative arts, hunting weapons and a modern art collection with works by Monet, Picasso and Dubuffet. The visit is also an opportunity to see a major work of Western art: the Issenheim Altarpiece. This polyptych, sculpted by Nicolas de Haguenau around 1510 and painted by Mathias Grünewald between 1512 and 1516, depicts episodes from the lives of Christ and Saint Anthony.
8. Go and photograph the Koïfhus
This former customs house is Colmar's oldest local public building. It dates back to the 15th century. Destined for demolition due to its poor condition, it was fortunately restored to its former glory. Today, visitors flock to its feet to photograph it. Its roof is decorated with glazed tiles reminiscent of those on the Hospices de Beaune. No fewer than 13 different trades were required to restore the roof to its former glory. Now it's done, and the result is well worth the detour.
9. Tasting some great local wines
Colmar is the wine capital of Alsace. For wine tourism enthusiasts, it's a destination of choice in eastern France. Whether you're in town for a weekend or an entire vacation, you'll want to take a tour of the wineries or order a glass of a local grand cru at a restaurant. Colmar is one of the stops on the not-to-be-missed Alsace Wine Route. It lies at the heart of a region rich in verdant vineyards, picturesque villages, cellars and châteaux. No less than 150 million bottles a year are produced here, enchanting palates the world over.
We recommend that you discover Colmar, the Alsatian wine capital, on this guided walking tour of the old town you'll also learn about Alsatian grape varieties and wine culture during a wine tasting session.
10. Take an interest in the work of Auguste Bartholdi
Housed in Auguste Bartholdi's birthplace in the heart of Colmar, the batholdi Museum offers an immersion into the world of the French sculptor and painter, best known for being one of the men behind the Statue of Liberty. Over 3 floors and more than 12 rooms, visitors will discover sculptures, paintings, engravings, models and other drawings. On the second floor, family furniture and personal memorabilia offer a glimpse into the last Parisian apartment occupied by the artist. A fascinating place to take an interest in a great local figure.
11. Enjoy local gastronomy
Alsace is one of France's top destinations for food lovers. That's if you're not on a diet, because the dishes are generous! In the restaurants, you must try sauerkraut and baeckeofe. The latter is made from lamb, pork and beef marinated with winter vegetables, herbs and local white wine. Coq au Riesling is another regional specialty, cooked with butter, shallots, Marc d'Alsace, crème fraîche, mushrooms and flour. On the sweet side, try langhopf, the little brother of the Alsatian kouglof.
12. Take part in a guided tour
Colmar is such an architecturally beautiful city that you immediately want to know more about the origins and history of its districts and monuments. So don't hesitate for a moment to head to the tourist office to sign up for a guided tour. Available in several languages, a tour with a guide takes you to the heart of the historic districts and past the main buildings, houses and churches. It's the best way to find out more about the city and to hear the most interesting anecdotes. You can opt for self-guided treasure hunt to discover the city in a playful way, or for a guided guided tour including wine tasting !
It's time to discover the 10 most beautiful villages in Eastern France!
13. Discover sublime Christmas markets
As everyone says, discovering Alsace at Christmas is like entering a magical world. As is the case everywhere else in the region, Colmar combines a charming heritage with the magic of Christmas markets. The city's historic districts are decked out in their finest decorations for the festive season. The lights, mixed with the shimmering colors of the buildings, create a magical atmosphere that appeals to children and parents alike. There are no fewer than 6 Christmas markets in Colmar. The pretty chalets, glittering with decorations, feature tableware, original gifts and culinary specialties. So many places to dream, to please your loved ones and to delight your taste buds. And if you want to take in the sights, book a walking tour of the old town, including a visit to the local Christmas markets, right here .
Discover the top 10 most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe!
14. Hansi Village and Museum
Visit Hansi Village and Museum is a place that tells the story of Colmar-born illustrator Jean Jacques Waltz, known as "Hansi". You begin by entering an Alsatian village square as he might have drawn it, with a store and tearoom. The museum is on the second floor. Here, visitors will discover childhood drawings, watercolors, advertising posters and period merchandise. These works retrace the history of man and Alsace from 1873 to 1951. All along the way, a playful setting delights young and old alike.
15. Enjoy the festive season in Colmar
Colmar, a cultural getaway of choice, is a lively Alsatian town all year round. In the evenings, you can enjoy a drink in one of its winstubs or visit the Salle de spectacle Europe, dedicated to live performance in all its diversity. Calendar highlights include the Christmas markets, of course, but also the "Festival International de Colmar", dedicated to classical music; "Colmar fête le printemps", with Easter markets and a series of free concerts, and the "Foire Régionale des Vins d'Alsace", an outstanding musical and wine event. The "Soirées folkloriques" also promise to be even more festive.
Where to stay in Colmar?
As Colmar attracts many visitors to enjoy the richness and beauty of its heritage, it is home to a number of very pleasant establishments in which to put down your suitcases.
The Primo Balladins hotel, good value for money
Granted, the façade isn't typically Alsatian, but the location of the Hôtel Primo Balladins is excellent, less than 5 minutes from the main sights. Rates are reasonable, and you can also enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring Alsatian specialties. Perfect for those who don't want to break the bank on accommodation. Click here to book your stay!
Hotel Paul & Pia, for its shimmering colors
The Paul & Pia hotel gives us the impression of returning to childhood, with its shimmering colors present everywhere, in the rooms as well as in the common areas. A nod to Pia's native Chile . We're just 500 m from Colmar's historic districts. We also appreciate the establishment's eco-responsible approach, particularly when it comes to bathroom products. Book your stay in just a few clicks here!
Hotel Saint-Martin, for traditional Alsatian charm
Everything you need for a stay with a traditional touch. The façade of the Hôtel Saint-Martin is sublime. It dates back to the 18th century. We love the typical Alsatian decor, which takes us back in time. Before you know it, you're scouring the streets of Little Venice. The disconnect is total, so consult here hotel rates and availability!
Click here to discover all our favorite accommodations in Colmar!
Family activities in Colmar
Colmar has plenty to offer families. Children love spending time at the Toy Museum and the Chocolate Museum. There's also a fun side to visiting Colmar from one of the tourist trains, or on a boat trip through Little Venice. And don't forget the parks with their playgrounds, such as Parc Méquillet, and the Carrousel 1900 in Champ de Mars Park! This is the largest wooden horse carousel in France, and is housed in an enclosed gallery that is unique in the region.
What to do around Colmar
Colmar is a magnificent city. And so are its surroundings. Visitors can start by taking the Route des Vins d'Alsace (Alsace Wine Route ) through the vineyards, stopping to taste fine vintages on the estates. Around Colmar are villages of rare beauty, such as Eguisheim and Riquewihr. It's hard not to fall under the spell of their medieval atmosphere and colors. Lovers of fine stonework can take the opportunity to visit sublime castles such as Saint-Ulrich and Pflixbourg. It's an opportunity to appreciate not only the richness of Colmar's heritage, but also its natural beauty. Nearby is the peaceful Lac Noir, surrounded by mountains, hills and lush countryside.
Did you enjoy your stay in Colmar? Now discover the 17 must-sees in Alsace and the 15 most beautiful villages and towns in Alsace!
