Colmar, a charming town in France's Alsace region, feels like stepping into a fairytale. It might seem cliché until you visit and see it yourself, then you’ll know it’s true. This medieval town is truly straight out of a storybook. One glance, and you'll see exactly what I mean.
I went to Colmar on a day trip in July. I hopped on the train from Basel to Colmar, which only took 30 minutes. I didn't have a plan. I just wanted to wander around, eat good food, and soak up the place's charm. I live in Switzerland, so I've seen my fair share of cute little towns, but there's something extra special about Colmar.
How to get to Little Venice (Old Town) from Colmar Train Station
WALK: I walked for 17 minutes and used Google Maps on my phone
BUS: 14 minutes
Taxi: 7 minutes
Colmar is adorable. The town is bursting with charm and whimsy at every corner: think pastel-painted houses with slightly wonky shutters, narrow canals, cobblestoned streets, flower-filled windows, and charmingly crooked lamp posts. I was smitten the moment I got there.
What to see and do in Colmar for a day
1. La Petite Venise
Little Venice is no doubt one of the most impressive sites in Colmar. The traditional half-timbre pastel-colored houses along the Lauch river, each adorned with tiny flowerpots hanging from their roofs. It feels like walking into a fairytale for real. Visit early if you want to enjoy the beauty. Boat rides are a common form of transport and have been mentioned by others, although I must say they did not appeal to me.
2. Quai De La Poissonnerie
The Fisherman's Quay used to be the residence of fishermen. Nowadays, it attracts many visitors who come to admire the picturesque half-timbered houses visible from the bridge.
3. Pfister House
Dating back to the 16th century, this merchant's residence is renowned for its intricately adorned wooden gallery panel and murals, showcasing the owner's desire to flaunt his prosperity during that era.
4. Old Market Hall
I love a bustling marketplace! Since its inception in 1865, the market at Colmar has become an emblematic and historical landmark. Locals have flocked here for generations to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and assorted produce. However, adventurous travelers should take note: some of the locals’ secrets are hidden away in baskets along the riverside where there are many picnic requisites to be unpacked and charming coffee shops to visit amid green garden furniture by the river-side reign. It is an experience that you would not want to miss!
5. Old town
Take a stroll through the Old Town, located just a brief distance from Little Venice. Wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy a rest at one of the numerous cafes along the way. While exploring the Old Town, make sure to visit some of its notable buildings.
6. Unterlinden Museum
Located in a Dominican convent, this museum showcases art spanning from medieval to contemporary periods. The standout exhibit is the Isenheim Altarpiece, a sculpted and painted altarpiece created between 1512 and 1516.
8. Enjoy Alsace's delicious cuisine
What is Alsacian food?
Alsatian cuisine combines elements of French and German culinary traditions. Below are some dishes commonly featured on Alsatian menus.
Baeckeoffe
Baeckeoffe is an Alsatian casserole dish made of sliced potatoes, onions, and three types of marinated meat (mutton, pork, beef) cooked slowly in white wine and juniper berries. It is traditionally prepared for special occasions, like Christmas, and can be found year-round in Alsatian winstubs.
Choucroute garnie
Sauerkraut forms the base of the dish choucroute garnie, a traditional recipe from Alsace with added garnishes like Strasbourg or Frankfurter sausage and cuts of salted pork. The sauerkraut is often marinated in white wine or beer for extra flavor. This iconic Alsatian dish has become a quintessential French favorite found on menus throughout the region.
Where to eat in Colmar?
Many restaurants in Colmar serve Alsatian and classic French cuisine, including popular dishes like escargot, foie gras, and local meat.
Girardin
Au Chasseur
Le Bistrot des Copains
Brasserie Historique
Le Quai 21
Bord’eau
Aux Armes de Colmar
La Maison Rouge
Where to Stay in Colmar?
Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes - 5 star
La Maison Des Têtes in Colmar offers spacious air-conditioned rooms with TV, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. This 17th-century building features a restaurant serving traditional and regional cuisine. Guests can relax on the shaded patio or enjoy a drink in the lounge.
Hotel Turenne is located at the entrance to Colmar’s old quarter, 750 meters from the Saint Martin Church. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi access.
Hotel Arc-En-Ciel Colmar Hotel is situated in a verdant setting just 1 km from the city center of Colmar and its historical sites and attractions.
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