If you’re planning an Alsatian wine tour in northeastern France, Colmar is a stop you shouldn’t miss. This charming town, known for its colorful half-timbered houses and nearby vineyards, perfectly captures the spirit of the region. Often nicknamed the “Little Venice of Alsace,” Colmar stands out for its rich architecture, relaxed atmosphere, and postcard-worthy scenery. It’s an easy city to explore on foot and a great base for discovering local wine traditions. And if you’re eager to taste the region’s best bottles, we’ve also highlighted wine estates offering bookable wine experiences on Winalist. Check out our guide to the Alsace Wine Route, as well as the best Alsace wineries to visit or Colmar wine tours listed on our interactive map!
What are the best things to do in Colmar?
Explore Little Venice
Stroll along the Lauch River in the quaint area known as Little Venice, which is the heart of Colmar. The colorful half-timbered houses and flower-adorned bridges make for perfect photo opportunities. Many will agree that this part of Colmar is one of the most beautiful places in the city. This is one of the best things to do in one day in Colmar, you can’t miss it!
Explore Colmar Old Town
Colmar’s Old Town is a charming maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares that’s best explored on foot. During your trip to Colmar, take time to wander between the colorful façades, browse local boutiques, and stop at cozy cafés or welcoming wine bars. It’s the perfect place for any Colmar tourist who wants to soak up the city’s authentic Alsatian atmosphere at a relaxed pace.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum
Housed in a former Dominican convent founded in 1252, the Unterlinden Museum presents a collection of sculptures and paintings from the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. This museum has a rich cultural identity, and you can also discover an archaeological collection as well as a collection of modern art. On top of all, you’ll enjoy staring at great painters’ works on display (like Picasso, Monet, and Dubuffet). Another museum to consider is the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the creator of the Statue of Liberty, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. This museum is housed in the artist’s childhood home and displays his sculptures and personal items.
Admire Saint-Martin Collegiate Church
Built mainly between the 13th and 14th centuries, this imposing church dominates the historic center with its warm pink sandstone façade typical of Alsace. Despite often being called a cathedral, it has never officially held that status. Inside, you’ll notice remarkable stained glass windows, some dating back to the 14th century, which bathe the nave in soft colored light. The church is also known for its finely carved portal sculptures and its elegant Gothic choir. Located right on Place de la Cathédrale, it’s an easy and worthwhile stop during any walk through Colmar’s Old Town.
Take a Boat Tour in Little Venice
For a different perspective on Colmar’s most picturesque district, hop on a boat tour through the canals of Little Venice. It’s one of the most relaxing ways to admire the colorful half-timbered houses and flower-lined quays from the water. The gentle ride lets you soak up the city’s charm at an easy pace while seeing parts of the neighborhood you might miss on foot.
Sample Alsatian Wines
If you’re looking to experience one of the best colmar wine tours, discover the Colmar wine estate the perfect location to sample local varieties like Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris in a tasting room created in 1895.
Enjoy the Alsatian flavor of Colmar
In Alsace, people love to eat well. And they are proud of local traditional cuisine. You can have fun digging out tasty specialties in the town of Colmar! Among the typical dishes of the Alsatian country, you will find Sauerkraut, Baeckeoffe, or Bouchées à la reine. As for dessert, there is what it takes. The most famous Alsatian pastry is Kougelhopf (a brioche with raisins and almonds) – you can taste excellent ones at 11 Quai de la Poissonnerie, at the Maison Alsacienne de la Biscuiterie.
Uncover the best tips for visiting Colmar in France
How to get to Colmar?
Reaching Colmar is easy thanks to its central location in Alsace. The most convenient option is by train: direct regional services connect the city with Strasbourg, Mulhouse, Basel, and other nearby hubs every 30 minutes. From Paris, the high-speed TGV takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes. If you prefer driving, Colmar sits along the free A35 motorway, roughly one hour from both Strasbourg and Mulhouse. The closest airports are Strasbourg-Entzheim and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, each about 70 km away, with easy onward train or car transfers to the city.
What are the best attractions in Colmar?
Colmar is packed with charming sights that are easy to explore on foot. Among the best attractions in Colmar are the colorful Little Venice district, the impressive Saint-Martin Collegiate Church, and the picturesque Old Town filled with half-timbered houses. Don’t miss the covered market or a stroll along the canals to fully soak up the city’s storybook atmosphere.
Is it possible to visit Colmar in 2 days ?
Yes, visiting Colmar in 2 days is absolutely doable and gives you a comfortable pace to enjoy the city. The historic center is compact and very walkable, so you can easily spend your time wandering through the colorful Old Town, strolling along the canals, browsing local shops, and enjoying Alsatian cafés. Two days also give you the freedom to slow down, take photos, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere without rushing. It’s the perfect amount of time for a first visit to Colmar.
What to do around Colmar?
Explore the Alsace wine route
Want to venture around Colmar to discover Alsace and its typical villages? The best way of doing it is to rent a car in Colmar and start driving along the Alsace wine route. This road will get you around the best villages of Alsace and allow you to discover landscapes, meet with local inhabitants and explore the Alsatian terroir while enjoying quality tastings with your hosts!
Before hitting the road, don’t forget to check out the best Alsace wineries to visit on Winalist!
Continue your journey to Riquewihr
Just 10 minutes from Colmar, you’ll find Riquewihr – an equally typical Alsatian village. In a valley surrounded by vineyards, this village is quite lively and can easily be visited on foot in a few tens of minutes. Check out the best wine tours in Riquewihr to visit. During the summer, the center of the village can be quite crowded since it is so small, but it is still worth the special trip. If you go up the roads leading to the vineyards, you can be more relaxed to admire the panoramic view over the rooftops of Riquewihr and the entire valley. And if you have the chance to be in the Alsace region during winter, do not miss the best Christmas markets in Alsace!
Day trip to Kaysersberg
Drive to Kaysersberg for a charming Alsace stop that feels straight out of a postcard. With its cobbled streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and hilltop castle ruins, the village is easy to explore at your own pace. Among the top things to do in Kaysersberg are strolling along the Weiss River, visiting the historic center, and stopping at a local wine cellar for a relaxed tasting. It’s a small detour that delivers a big dose of authentic Alsatian charm.
Head to Strasbourg near Colmar
Head to Strasbourg near Colmar to experience one of Alsace’s most vibrant cities. Just a short train ride away, Strasbourg is packed with highlights, from the stunning cathedral to the storybook Petite France district, some of the top things to do in Strasbourg. If you’re visiting in winter, the city becomes even more magical thanks to the famous Alsace Christmas market, one of the oldest and most atmospheric in Europe. It’s an easy and rewarding day trip that perfectly complements a stay in Colmar.
Good to know for a day in Colmar
How to visit Colmar in one day?
To see most of the districts of Colmar and visit the main monuments, we advise you to opt for the Colmar City-Pass. You can get it at the Unterlinden museum or at the tourist office, in order to take advantage of the little train, the boats, admission to the museums as well as to the Dominican Church.
Where to park in Colmar?
There are car parks or parking spaces in town, via parking meter or European disc. Underground car parks have also been built near the city center. If you come by train from Strasbourg, allow about 30 minutes.
Why visit Colmar?
It is one of the essentials in Alsace. More charming than Mulhouse, smaller than Strasbourg, Colmar is the perfect balance if you want to immerse yourself in a typical Alsatian city and visit the essentials on foot in 1 day.
Where to stay in Colmar ?
La Maison des Tetes: This five-star hotel features 21 plush rooms located in an historic monument building that dates from 1609. Its brasserie and restaurant are also highly rated.
Le Colombier: In the heart of Petite Venise, this hotel offers 33 air conditioned rooms and suites. It’s hard to find better views in town.
Hotel Saint Martin: In the city center, the Hotel Saint Martin offers the convenience of an ideal location and clean, comfortable rooms.
Where to eat in Colmar ?
– Restaurant JY’s–With two Michelin stars, Restaurant JYS is one of the very best restaurants in Alsace and a must-visit destination for food lovers. It’s also situated right in the heart of Petite Venise.
– Le Caveau Saint Pierre–With great tarte flambée and other Alsatian food, Le Caveau Saint Pierre is a great option for a quick lunch or filling dinner.
– Koifhus Winstub–A large selection of meats, fish, and other traditional dishes are offered up by this well-priced eatery in the middle of old town. Grab a seat outside, if the weather allows.
– Brasserie Schwendi–This Alsatian restaurant in the center of town offers rosti, tarte flambée, and many other solid choices. There is lots of seating outside and inside.
– Le Palmyre – Le Palmyre offers a great change of pace with Lebanese and Syrian specialties. Their meze plates and falafel are delicious.
What is the Best Time to Visit Colmar, France ?
Visiting Colmar in France is wonderful anytime of year; deciding what is the best time to go to Colmar will depend on your desired activities.
Summer in Colmar :
Summertime is a great time to visit Colmar. The weather is warm and there are lots of events happening around town. That said, the city can get crowded in the summer, which makes it difficult to get dinner reservations and increases the price of accommodations.
Colmar Spring and Autumn :
The spring and autumn mark the shoulder season. While the temperatures are cooler and rain is more likely in the forecast, there are fewer people and better prices.
Wintertime in Colmar :
Some travelers may wonder what to do in Colmar in winter, but we can assure you it is a fabulous time to visit! The best things to do in Colmar in December are the picture-perfect Colmar Christmas Markets that take place in the heart of the old town. Just plan for colder weather!
Is Colmar also worth visiting compared to other Alsace towns?
Yes, Colmar is also one of the most charming destinations in eastern France. Located in the Alsace region, the city stands out for its colorful half-timbered houses, canals, and strong wine culture, making it a must-see stop on any Alsace itinerary.
How do I get to Colmar train station?
Colmar train station is well connected to major French cities. You can reach it easily from Strasbourg (about 30 minutes by train) or from Basel and Mulhouse. The station is only a short walk from the historic center.
What is the Colmar International Festival?
The Colmar International Festival is a renowned classical music event held every summer. It attracts world-class musicians and is one of the cultural highlights of the city.
Is it possible to visit Colmar during one short trip?
Yes, you can visit Colmar during one short trip thanks to its walkable size. Even a day trip gives you a good overview, though staying overnight lets you enjoy the atmosphere more fully.
What is the Marché Couvert Colmar?
The Marché Couvert Colmar is the city’s covered market, located near Little Venice. It’s a great place to discover local cheeses, pastries, wines, and regional specialties.
What is the history of Colmar?
The history of Colmar dates back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, the city shifted between French and German control, which explains its unique cultural and architectural identity today.
How far is Germany to Colmar?
Germany to Colmar is very close, the border is about 15 miles away. This makes Colmar an easy stop on a cross-border Alsace and Germany itinerary.
Where is Colmar located in the Alsace region?
Colmar is located in the Alsace region in northeastern France, between Strasbourg and Mulhouse, along the famous Alsace Wine Route.
Victoria explores Europe's wine regions to share the finest wine tourism experiences with our travelers. Here she shares her favorite discoveries, tips, and encounters with the winemakers behind every bottle.