Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is a town that seems to have stepped straight out of a fairytale. The narrow cobblestone streets lead through medieval buildings adorned with colourful timber frames. Every corner reveals another delightful surprise.

The magic of Colmar lies in its enchanting mix of history and beauty. The town’s charm is captivating, whether you’re wandering the canals of Little Venice or visiting the lively market squares. It’s the kind of place where every glance holds a new detail that catches the eye.

Colmar has been on my bucket list for a while. Ever since I saw it in photos, I have dreamed of visiting this magical place. Finally, I got the chance to see it with my own eyes, and I was so happy about it!

This Colmar guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through the town’s most magical spots. Moreover, it’ll also provide you with other tips to help you plan a trip there, such as:

• When to go to Colmar
• How many days to spend in Colmar
• How to spend one day in Colmar
• Best accommodation options in Colmar

Colmar is small and can be explored in a day. Consider spending two days if you want to soak in the local ambience, sample Alsatian cuisine, or venture into nearby vineyards.

However, if time is limited, don’t worry! With the right itinerary, you can experience the highlights of Colmar in just one day. That’s what I did when I visited Colmar.

Colmar is a year-round destination, each season with its unique charm.

In spring and summer, the streets are alive with colourful flowers and outdoor cafés. Autumn brings a burst of colour as the leaves change and harvest festivals fill the town with music and food.

Winter transforms Colmar into a winter wonderland. Prepare for its charming Christmas markets and decorations. This is one of the most popular seasons in the city, so please be aware.

To avoid crowds during Christmas, visit during weekdays or early mornings before tour groups arrive. If you wish to visit Colmar during Christmas, make sure to plan your trip in advance. Hotels in Colmar can get quickly booked, especially the cheaper ones.

For instance, I visited Colmar in early June. The weather was nice, there weren’t big crowds and prices were also lower.

Christmas in Colmar is truly magical. The town sparkles with dazzling lights and there is a smell of gingerbread and mulled wine in the air. Each corner of Colmar invites you to experience the warmth of the holiday spirit.

The Christmas markets in Colmar are a special highlight. There are several stalls in the market. They sell from handcrafted gifts to delicious treats, like baked pretzels and roasted chestnuts.

Don’t miss the sparkling decorations. Lights drape across buildings and illuminate the quaint cobblestone streets. Colmar’s medieval architecture adds an enchanting backdrop to all the festive displays. It feels like a fairytale!

For a better experience, visit in the late afternoon. The glow from the lights intensifies as the sun sets. Bundle up in a warm coat and savour a cup of hot chocolate as you explore.

Colmar’s vibrant local festivities add excitement to this already enchanting town. No matter the season, there’s always a reason to celebrate, whether in winter’s chill or summer’s warmth.

This is the key event for wine lovers that happens every August. It features tastings of the region’s finest wines, including Rieslings and Gewürztraminers. The fair also offers concerts, culinary demonstrations, and a lively atmosphere. It highlights Alsace’s winemaking heritage! So, this is the ideal opportunity to experience the region’s rich viticultural tradition.

Held in July, this festival celebrates music, culture, and art, attracting top musicians and performers. The festival offers something for every music lover: from classical to contemporary.

For an authentic experience, consider staying in the picturesque Old Town. Options range from charming boutique hotels to cosy B&Bs.

Staying in the Old Town district of Colmar is like stepping back in time. The streets are lined with colourful, half-timbered houses that look like they’re from a fairytale.

Everywhere you go, charming cafés and shops are waiting to be explored. At night, the buildings light up, giving the area a magical glow. The Old Town is not only beautiful, but it also has many fun things to do right nearby.

Staying in this area means you’re close to the action, so you won’t miss any of the excitement.

Colmar offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets. Have a look at my suggestions:

• Ibis Colmar Centre: Enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities. Also, take advantage of its prime location. It’s just a short walk from the city’s main attractions.
• Hotel Turenne: This hotel is conveniently located close to popular sites. It offers guests a blend of contemporary design and essential amenities for a pleasant stay.
• B&B Hotel Colmar: Ideal for travellers on a budget, this hotel provides an affordable stay with all the essentials.

• Hotel Saint-Martin: Friendly staff and charming setting. It’s the perfect base for exploring the city’s rich history and culture.
• James Boutique Hotel: Step into a cosy atmosphere filled with stylish décor. This hotel combines comfort with aesthetic appeal, making your stay enjoyable.
• Le Marechal & Spa Hotel: Situated right by the canal, this hotel boasts classic style and offers a relaxing ambience.

• La Maison des Têtes: Experience true elegance in this historic building. This hotel features beautifully designed interiors and personalized service.
• Colmar Hotel & Spa: Indulge in modern luxury at this hotel, complete with a relaxing spa. This is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the beautiful city.
• Villa Elyane: This quiet retreat is set amidst magnificent gardens. It offers a serene atmosphere that enhances your luxurious experience in Colmar.

When I visited Colmar, I stayed 2 nights in a small apartment – Gite “Karcher”! The room was cosy and there was also a kitchen if I wanted to cook.

The apartment is rather simple but it’s located in the Old Town, close to the best things to do in Colmar. I could walk everywhere easily.

To help you better plan your trip, use this map so you know what to visit in Colmar and make the best of your time in this superb town.

The Colmar 1 day itinerary that follows is your guide for an amazing day in town. I’ll show you what to do in Colmar for a day.

From the charming streets to the historic sites, every moment counts. Follow the plan below to explore the must-see spots most efficiently.

Yes, the most fun part about visiting Colmar is indeed wandering in its streets. You can do so! But I definitely recommend checking out the places below so you don’t miss out.

Start your morning wandering through La Petite Venise! It translates to “Little Venice” and you can easily understand why once you’re there.

It looks like a miniature version of Venice (Italy) with its delightful canals and flower-adorned bridges. This is the perfect spot for those postcard-perfect photos.

This was one of my favourite places in town and I’m sure you’ll want to come back there later in the day.

I absolutely recommend going on a boat tour on the canals. You get to see the town from another perspective, pass under the bridges and have fun! You can buy your boat tour here. It costs 8€ for a 25 min tour.

Next, head to Quai de la Poissonnerie, which is close by.

Once home to the town’s fishermen, it’s now lined with colourful houses and quaint cafes. Stroll along Rue de la Poissonnerie to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Make your way down Rue Turenne! There you’ll find more of Colmar’s quintessential half-timbered houses. Each building tells a story, with intricate details and designs.

I know it’ll be hard but try not stopping every few meters for photos.

I know you came for the cute houses and the canals but include St. Martin’s Church on your Colmar itinerary.

This beautiful Gothic church is a testament to the town’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass windows. They cast colourful patterns across the stone floors, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. Entry is free!

Take a break at the Covered Market to sample some local delicacies. From freshly baked pastries to Alsatian cheeses, it’s a food lover’s paradise.

You’ll also find an array of vibrant fruits and vegetables, perfect for a quick snack or picnic. The market’s lively atmosphere makes it a delightful spot to mingle with locals and soak in the authentic Alsace culture.

Continue to the Quartier des Tanneurs, historically known for its leather tanneries. Today, it’s a lively area filled with shops and eateries.

Also, make sure not to miss Maison Adolph – one of Colmar’s oldest houses. Its distinct gothic architecture stands out even amongst the town’s charming facades.

The house dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into medieval life in Colmar. Its enchanting facade, adorned with pointed arches contrasts with the colourful, more modern buildings surrounding it.

Continue towards Place des 6 Montagnes Noires. Admire the sculptures and enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the surrounding cafés.

The square is often bustling with both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by as you soak in the charm of Colmar.

Whether you’re sipping on a cappuccino or chatting with friends, this picturesque setting is truly magical.

Champs de Mar is Colmar’s most popular park. It’s not the most popular attraction in Colmar, but it’s the perfect spot to relax for a while.

Its wide open spaces invite visitors to wander and unwind, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets nearby.

Another place to include in your Colmar itinerary is Koifhus. This is Colmar’s former customs house, now a venue for exhibitions and events. It’s a must-see in Colmar for history buffs.

As you explore Koifhus, you’ll notice the mixed architectural styles reflecting its storied past from the 15th century.

Marvel at the Pfister House, a standout with its wooden gallery and octagonal turret. It’s a stunning example of Renaissance architecture.

Built in 1537, this historic building is an iconic representation of Alsatian craftsmanship.

End your day at the Dominican Church. It’s home to Martin Schongauer’s renowned painting – “Madonna in the Rose Garden.”

Its impressive stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colours inside, enhancing its peaceful ambience.

💡 EXTRA TIP: If you like visiting museums, consider the Unterlinden Museum. The museum’s diverse exhibits span from prehistoric times to contemporary art, providing a comprehensive view of the region’s cultural heritage.

If you’re lucky enough to visit during Christmas, then I suggest ending your day exploring Colmar’s Christmas markets. They are usually open from late November to December 31st.

These markets are located in the heart of the town. Check out the dates and all the details about the Christmas Markets in Colmar before going.

Each market has its charm. The Old Customs House square has arts and crafts. Here, you can see creative and unique decorations.

Place Jeanne d’Arc offers tasty treats. You can find local cheese, bread, and gingerbread. The delicious smells will invite you to explore more.

Around Saint Martin’s Church, you find decorations and toys. The twinkling lights create a festive atmosphere. It’s a great place for families to enjoy together.

Finally, don’t miss the Children’s Christmas Market. The Little Venice area is full of wonder for kids. There are games, rides, and even a sweet merry-go-round.

Visiting the Christmas markets in Colmar is like stepping into a winter wonderland. The cheerful music and warm lights make it unforgettable.

In case you don’t visit in late November or December, end the day in a nearby town instead. If you think Colmar is cute, wait until you see Riquewihr.

Riquewihr is a delightful little town that feels as if it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. It’s surrounded by rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes.

The town is known for its charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval architecture. When you first enter Riquewihr, the colourful half-timbered houses will greet you with a warm and inviting vibe. The narrow lanes are filled with quaint shops where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts.

This is one of the best day trips from Colmar. Riquewihr is only about 20 minutes away by car from Colmar. You can ride an Uber, for example, to get there.

Alternatively, you can take the bus from Colmar to Riquewihr. It’s easy and costs only a few euros. The trip takes around 30 minutes, but be sure to check the schedule as there aren’t many buses available.

When I visited, I asked for an Uber to get there and returned on the bus. The bus trip is 4€ and the Uber costs about 25€-30€. You can easily understand why you need to plan this one ahead!

Exploring Colmar wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its rich culinary offerings, deeply rooted in Alsatian tradition. The town’s cuisine is a delightful blend of French and German influences, promising a feast for your taste buds with every bite.

Start your culinary adventure with tarte flambée. This is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. It’s Alsace’s delicious take on pizza and a must-try for any visitor. I LOVED it! Plus, it’s one of the cheapest items on most restaurant menus.

For something heartier, dive into choucroute garnie. This is a savoury dish of sauerkraut served with various sausages and smoked meats. Its robust flavours make it a local favourite, especially during the colder months.

Another traditional dish to savour is baeckeoffe. It’s a comforting casserole made with marinated meats and potatoes, slow-cooked to perfection. This dish is steeped in history and tradition, often prepared for family gatherings and special occasions.

No meal in Colmar is complete without a glass of local wine. The region is renowned for its crisp Riesling and aromatic Gewürztraminer. These wines perfectly complement the rich flavours of Alsatian dishes.

If you enjoy wine, then you should learn more about the Alsatian Wine Route. It’s a journey through beautiful vineyards and charming villages. Stretching over 170 kilometres, this route offers stunning views of rolling hills and ancient castles. As you travel along, you can stop at cosy wineries to taste delicious wines.

When it comes to restaurants, I tried two different ones that I suggest:

• Caveau St Jean (€): the outdoor seating was quite nice and the tarte flambéé was delicious. This actually appears to be one of the best restaurants in Colmar (#6 on TripAdvisor).
• Brasserie Schwendi (€€): it’s more of a touristy place but the food was tasty! We had the baeckeoffe d’Alsace and one of their röstis

Whether you choose a fancy restaurant or a small café, Colmar’s food scene will surely impress your taste buds!

Even though there is no airport in Colmar, it’s easy to get there. There are plenty of options available and the most suitable for you depends on where you’re coming from.

Flying is a convenient way to reach Colmar, especially if you are coming from far away. Here are the closest airports:

• EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg: It’s located 60 km from Colmar. You can rent a car to reach Colmar or take a shuttle service from the airport directly to Colmar.
• Strasbourg Airport (SXB), Switzerland: 70 km from Colmar. Get on a train to travel from Strasbourg Airport to Colmar.
• Zurich Airport (ZRH), Switzerland: located 150 km from Colmar and it’s one of the largest international airports in the region. You can use the train to get to Colmar and the trip should take between 2h30 to 3h.
• Stuttgart Airport (STR), Germany: 200 km from Colmar and getting to Colmar should take about 3h30 to 4h by public transport.

These airports offer flights from many cities, both inside and outside Europe.

Colmar has two train stations: the Colmar Station and the Colmar-Saint-Joseph Station. The former is located in the city centre, while the latter is just a few minutes away from downtown.

Both train stations offer connections within France and also with Germany and Switzerland.

Trains are a comfortable way to travel in Europe. Not only do they provide scenic views of the countryside, but they are also fast and affordable.

Taking a bus to Colmar it’s often the cheapest option if you’re coming from nearby cities. FlixBus is one of the most popular bus services that can get you there. They offer trips from many major close cities like Strasbourg, Zurich, Stuttgart and Basel. You can also travel from Paris, but the trip is quite long.

Buses are comfy, with enough legroom and free Wi-Fi.

In my case, I was travelling in the region so I travelled from Basel to Colmar and then from Colmar to Strasbourg. The trips were quite inexpensive and short.

Basel Airport is the closest airport to Colmar. And getting from there to Colmar’s Old Town is easy.

• By Bus/Tram + Train via France: (~ 1h to 2h): Get on a shuttle bus from the airport to Saint-Louis train station. From there, hop on a direct TER train to Colmar. This is one of the cheapest options to get to Colmar (~12€ to 17€).
• By Bus/Tram + Train via Basel (~ 1h30 to 2h): Although there isn’t a direct train from the airport, you can take bus #50 to get to the Basel SBB train station. From there, catch a TER train to Colmar. This journey might take around 1h30 but lets you enjoy some awesome landscapes along the way. This trip costs ~20€ to 30€.
• By Flixbus (~1h15): Some days, there seems to exist a direct Flixbus that connects Basel Airport with Colmar. However, timetables might not suit your itinerary. Definitely recommend checking their website beforehand. If available, this is probably the cheapest option (less than 10€).
• By Car (~ 45min): If you enjoy driving, renting a car is a great option, especially if you want to explore more of the Alsace region. From the airport, just follow the signs to the highway toward Colmar. The drive is smooth and you’ll love the views of the Alsace region on your way. I recommend renting with DiscoverCars.
• By Taxi (~ 45min): For a more direct option, consider taking a taxi. While it can be pricier, it’s perfect if you need more comfort or if you’re travelling with lots of luggage.
• By Private Transfer (~ 45min): Another great option if you want a hassle-free trip. I recommend using Welcome PickUps, which ensures a dedicated vehicle is ready upon arrival.

Travelling from Strasbourg Airport to Colmar is also easy. There are several options available.

• By Train (~1h20): Take the shuttle from Strasbourg Airport to Strasbourg train station. Catch a TER train to Colmar. It’s a comfortable ride with beautiful scenery. This should cost ~15€ to 25€.
• By Flixbus (~1h30): On select days, you might find a Flixbus that takes you directly to Colmar. Check their schedule online. It’s usually affordable, costing less than 15€.
• By Car (~1h): Renting a car is perfect if you love driving. Just follow the A35 highway to reach Colmar. It’s a scenic drive. I recommend renting with DiscoverCars.
• By Taxi (~1h): Taxis are available at the airport. They’re convenient if you’re carrying luggage. Expect to pay around 100€.
• By Private Transfer (~1h): Book in advance for a stress-free ride. I recommend using Welcome PickUps, which ensures a dedicated vehicle is ready upon arrival.

Walking is one of the best ways to see the city’s beautiful architecture. But it’s also the best way to truly experience its vibrant atmosphere. You’ll be able to wander through narrow cobblestone streets.

On my trip, I visited all of Colmar’s attractions on foot. They are all located close together, so walking from one to another is super easy.

Colmar offers other convenient ways to get around. Biking is a fun option, and you can rent bikes from several places in town. It’s a perfect way to explore a bit further and enjoy the lovely scenery at a relaxed pace.

For those who want a guided experience, consider joining a segway tour in Colmar or a mini-train tour. These tours are great for learning interesting facts about the city’s history while riding around.

Colmar is a charming place to visit! It has a rich history, beautiful buildings, and delicious food.

Whether you stay for a day or longer, Colmar is a fun and friendly place that sparks your imagination! So, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Absolutely! With its fairy-tale setting, children will love the whimsical atmosphere.

Yes, several local companies offer walking tours that highlight Colmar’s history and hidden gems. For example, this 2-hour guided tour of Colmar is highly rated.

Certainly! Many attractions are free, and you can enjoy delicious street food at reasonable prices.

A day trip to Colmar is definitely worth it! You can see beautiful old buildings and enjoy tasty treats like crepes and pastries. Plus, it’s a fun adventure exploring such a fairy-tale town, making it a memorable day for everyone.

The town is rather small, so you can wander its streets and admire the canals and colourful houses in a few hours. However, if you can, try spending a bit more time there. I’m sure you won’t regret it.

Technically you can, but I don’t recommend it. The fastest way to get there is by train. You can take a high-speed train, or TGV, from Paris to Colmar. The journey takes about 3 hours. So, a day trip is possible but make sure to start early to have more time in Colmar.

Colmar is truly a magical place. It’s like stepping into a storybook with its charming streets and colourful houses. The town offers a perfect mix of history and fun. Everyone will find something to love here.

The food scene in Colmar is delicious. From street snacks to cosy café treats, there’s a lot to try. Make sure to taste the local specialities. Eating in Colmar is an adventure in itself.

Exploration is easy in Colmar. Many places are free to visit, and some are unique to this town. Walking through the old streets is simple and enjoyable. Guided tours can make the experience even richer.

Above all, Colmar is welcoming and friendly. It’s perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers. The town leaves you with warm memories. Don’t miss a chance to visit this delightful gem!

Share your Colmar experiences or feel free to ask me any questions in the comments below!

Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊