Nestled between the rolling vineyards of the Alsace wine route and the foothills of the Vosges mountains, Colmar feels less like a functional French town and more like a living illustration from a storybook. Its meticulously preserved old town, crisscrossed by tranquil canals and lined with vibrantly colored half-timbered houses, draws millions of visitors each year. Yet, despite its fame, the city retains an authentic Alsatian soul, where bakers still sell kugelhopf and storks nest atop chimney pots.
Often referred to as the "Capital of Alsatian Wine" or "Little Venice," Colmar miraculously escaped the widespread destruction that flattened many European cities during the World Wars. This stroke of historical luck means that walking through its cobblestone lanes is a genuine journey through six centuries of architectural evolution. From Gothic churches to Renaissance merchant houses, the urban fabric tells a story of prosperity, craftsmanship, and artistic genius.
While the aesthetic beauty of Colmar is its primary draw, the city offers far more than just a pretty facade. It is a haven for art lovers, housing one of the most famous altarpieces in Western art history. It is a culinary destination, where rustic winstubs serve hearty choucroute alongside crisp, aromatic Rieslings. And for those who simply wish to wander, every turn reveals a new hidden courtyard, a blooming flower box, or a reflection shimmering in the water.
Visiting Colmar requires a shift in pace. This is not a city to be rushed or checked off a list; it is a destination to be savored slowly, preferably with a glass of local Crémant in hand. The true joy lies in the details: the intricate wrought-iron signs swinging above shop doors, the gentle sound of water lapping against stone quays, and the scent of freshly baked tarte flambée wafting from a cellar restaurant.
To help you navigate this enchanting maze, we have curated a list of the most essential sights and experiences. Whether you are planning a winter trip to browse the famous Christmas markets or a summer escape to cycle through the vineyards, these landmarks will ensure you capture the essence of Colmar. Each stop offers a unique perspective on why this town is considered one of the most beautiful in France.
Below, you will find the definitive guide to the attractions that define the Colmar experience. From the iconic waterways to the quiet museums, these are the places that should anchor your itinerary.
Vieille ville de Colmar
| Address | Rue des Tanneurs, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 03 89 20 68 92 |
Colmar Old Town is a unique place, with colourful, fairy-tale-like buildings and cheerful streets alongside older, weathered architecture. Somehow, this contrast adds to its character and makes the town uniquely beautiful.
I visited during my vacation in France in August, and it felt like a wonderful time to experience the town. My favourite area was La Petite Venise, with its beautiful canals, restaurants, and cafés along the waterfront. As it was peak season, getting reservations at some of the popular restaurants was a little difficult.
Overall, a charming and unique experience that is well worth visiting.
The most beautiful location in colmar, winter or summer both ways this place looks Amazing.
Nice coffee corner, excellent restaurants, fun boat canel drive
Great treat for the view with old colmar building.
Its really feels so relaxed and excellent moment every time when i visit colmar old town.
Peak season bit of crowd but still nice vibrant city 👌
Definitely must visit place, once in a life time.
I am very happy we decided to spend some time in Colmar old town. So much history and beauty. We even learned a few new details about the Statue of Liberty. Cool.
Discovering the Colmar Old Town on 6 January 2026 was like walking through a living postcard. Although staying in the nearby area of Horbourg, visiting this charming town near the German border was a definite highlight of my trip.
The Old Town is a treasure trove of vintage architecture, featuring beautifully preserved half-timbered houses that reflect its rich dual heritage. Meandering through the cobblestone streets and seeing the colorful facades felt incredibly nostalgic and peaceful. Even in the winter chill, the town radiates a magical glow that makes every corner feel like a scene from a storybook. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking history and timeless beauty in the heart of Alsace.
Visiting this town was a dream for me.
fortunately, I did it !!
This city is really stunning. Its designs, buildings, shops cofes, restaurants and all vibes are so perfect and it will guarantee that your day will be super amazing.
I came by train from Strasbourg, spent the whole day in Colmar before I go back to Strasburg.
I enjoyed every single moment in this town and I recommend it for all visitors to France.
La Petite Venise
| Address | Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 03 89 20 68 92 |
La Petite Venise is honestly one of the most beautiful and charming places I’ve visited. The neighborhood is full of cute, colorful houses that look like they’re straight out of a storybook. Walking around feels really relaxing, with little streets, small shops, and lots of cozy spots to just wander and take it all in.
What I really loved is how lively but still quaint it feels. There are plenty of small restaurants right by the river where you can sit outside and enjoy the view. It’s such a nice experience having a meal there, especially with a glass of wine—just watching the water and people passing by makes it feel like a perfect, slow-paced day.
It does get quite crowded, so I’d definitely recommend planning ahead. We parked at Parking Rapp, which was super convenient and an easy walk into the area.
Make sure to walk around properly and not rush it. Visiting the Marché Couvert de Colmar is also worth it if you have time. And if you can, book a little boat tour—it’s a great way to see the houses from a different perspective.
Overall, it’s just a really cute and scenic place to spend a few hours. Walking, exploring, having a nice meal with a glass of wine—it’s pretty much a perfect day.
If you want to step directly into a living storybook, Colmar is the place to go. It feels like a beautifully preserved slice of pure Alsatian culture, where German and French influences blend into something truly magical.
Walking through the old town is a visual feast. Signature Alsatian timber-framed houses line the cobblestone streets in an explosion of pastel pinks, mint greens, and warm yellows. You quickly notice the unique details—intricate wooden balconies, heavy shutters, and steep roofs. The historic monuments carry immense character, from the stunning Maison Pfister with its wraparound wooden gallery, to the towering Collégiale Saint-Martin (St. Martin's Church), built with striking pinkish-red sandstone and a colorful, glazed tile roof that catches the sunlight perfectly.
You cannot visit Colmar without exploring La Petite Venise (Little Venice). The absolute best way to experience it is by taking a flat-bottomed boat tour down the Lauch River, drifting past flower-draped waterfront houses.
Right in this fairytale setting, I had an unforgettable dinner at Wistub de la Petite Venise. It is exactly what you want from an authentic, cozy Alsatian tavern—wooden paneling, vintage decor, and incredibly warm service. I tried the excellent Bœuf Gros Sel (a traditional, tender boiled beef served with coarse salt) and paired it with a local Muscat d'Alsace—a dry white wine that is extremely aromatic and fruit-forward. Absolutely delicious!
One of the coolest discoveries in Colmar is learning just how proud the town is of its most famous son: Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, the visionary sculptor who created the Statue of Liberty. His presence is felt everywhere. You can visit the Bartholdi Museum, housed right in his birthplace, which displays his original sketches and models. Throughout the town, look down at your feet—there are little brass Lady Liberty triangles embedded in the cobblestones to guide you through the historic walking route. There is even a 12-meter-tall replica of the statue standing proudly in a roundabout at the northern entrance of town!
Go there "toute de suite"! It is an absolute must-visit for your travel bucket list.
Colmar is my hometown, yet it still feels magical every time I visit. It’s a place unlike any other. The colorful streets and charming houses made me feel as if I had stepped into Belle’s story. There are lovely shops to explore, and the atmosphere is simply unforgettable. If you have the chance, visit during Christmas time. It’s busy, but the festive decorations and magical ambiance make it completely worth it!!
A picturesque part of the town of Colmar. Amazing buildinga with beautiful colors and nice decorations. The city follows the seasonal decorations and it is the most beautiful during the Christmas holidays. In summer you can enjoy the vibrant colors of the flowers and the nice weather. I definitely recommend visiting ant time of the year.
Little Venice in Colmar is absolutely charming!
The colorful houses, beautiful canals, and peaceful atmosphere make it feel like a fairytale. It's the perfect place for a relaxing walk and amazing photos. Definitely a must-visit when you're in Colmar! ✨🇫🇷
Salle du Corps de Garde
| Address | 17 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This beautiful loggia, built between 1577 and 1582, allowed the Magistrate to take oaths and pronounce sentences.
The Salle du Corps de Garde or Ancien Corps de Garde, is a German Renaissance structure, built in 1575. It was originally intended to be a town hall, it then housed the town guard. As the loggia is directly facing the Saint Martin Church, it is easy to understand why.
Colmar is a nice place where you can walk for a week and will not be bored
Beautiful old building, that is viewing the remarkable St Martin's Church.
it is an interesting point of interest. personally I think it is worth having a short stop to take photos.
Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar
| Address | 18 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
St. Martin’s Cathedral is a yellow sandstone structure and the most important Gothic building in Central Alsace. It houses significant works of art, such as the west portal—through which one enters the church—featuring the Adoration of the Magi and the Last Judgment. Another Last Judgment scene can be found above the south portal, which we unfortunately missed since we entered the church unprepared. However, I noticed a beautiful rose window above the entrance at the west portal and, right next to it in the inside, the late-Gothic carved case of an astronomical clock, though its mechanism has not survived. I also found the rosettes above the choir stalls remarkable.
Since admission is free—unlike at religious buildings in some other countries—and the secular state provides little support, the parish relies on donations to maintain the church.
One of the most beautiful religious buildings I’ve been to. Of course, with all the respect, we entered the Church and were impressed by the beauty and details. It’s huge and it shows a lot. You can walk around the church. It’s free to visit, but consider donating to the ones that maintain the church and your visit, you can already do this by lighting a small candle as well.
It is beautiful cathedral. The inner space is magic, with so strong atmosphere, and the outside is so impressive. The entrance is free but you can voluntarily give a few coins to the person standing in front of the door. What I would like to highlight is really pleasant fact that they take really good care of the building, it is all well-maintained and clean, leaving almost no black spots on it.
A truly magnificent sacral building. I felt at peace here and decided to light a candle for all the loved ones that aren't here anymore. Definitely worth a visit if and when in Colmar.
During our month-long tour of the French region, this church was our absolute favourite! It boasts stunning architecture and art pieces that visitors can enjoy. It has a peaceful vibe, even when it is quite busy.
Place de la Cathédrale
| Address | Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Amazing place to visit and admire the beauty of the cathedral. Lots of places to stop and get food with many choices. During Noel you also have many craft shops selling all kinds of interesting items.
A beautiful place to be in Colmar, calm and tranquility. You can find lots of restaurants and shops around the busy areas but here you find peace to calm yourself and soak in the beauty it truly is.
Discover a secret oasis in Colmar: the tranquil park next to the Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar🏞️ With its vibrant flora and peaceful ambiance, it's the perfect place to capture stunning portraits, especially during the golden hour when the church glows orange🌇
The park's benches provide a comfortable spot to relax and pose, making it an ideal location for couples photography.
The combination of natural light and architectural beauty makes this location a photographer's dream ☺️📸
the surrounding of the cathedrale is so different from the other cathedrales that I had visited.
It makes such a nice postcard
Having a cafe in front of a amazing view.
Quai de la Poissonnerie Colmar
| Address | 25 Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 20 68 92 |
Very beautiful and peaceful to walk around. We were here during the off season and it was good to find the place empty. I believe this place to be full with the tourists during the summer season. Nice to walk along the canal and admiring those beautiful, vibrant and colourful houses. The street gets narrower as we walk down the line towards little Venice. The place has a historical significance. Must walk here during the visit to Colmar.
The best Christmas place.. the whole colmar is extraordinary!!
Beautiful places especially during the spring and early summer time! It can be very crowded so try to get there early is the key!
So cute
Nice area to visit in Colmar. Quite busy and a lot of tourists…. Also a lot of tourist traps as shops and restaurants…..
Musée Bartholdi
| Address | 30 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 41 90 60 |
A lovely small museum in the heart of Colmar. Great way to learn about Bartholdi’s life and see models of his famous works, including the Statue of Liberty. The visit is not long but very interesting and well organized. Definitely worth a stop!
Beautiful museum located in the heart of the old Colmar, the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904) houses, on three levels, a museum dedicated to this iconic 19th-century artist.
Sculptures, paintings, drawings, and photographs are on display.
On the ground floor, "The Little Winegrower" is one of the models of the nine public monuments designed by the sculptor between 1856 and 1902 for Colmar.
On the first floor, family furniture and personal mementos recreate the artist's last Parisian apartment. The adjacent wing displays models of the Vercingetorix statue in Clermont-Ferrand and the Lion of Belfort.
On the second floor, three rooms are devoted to Bartholdi's American monuments. "Liberty Enlightening the World" is evoked through models, drawings, paintings, engravings, and photographs. It is dedicated to the creator of the Statue of Liberty and the Lion of Belfort and was inaugurated in 1922, the museum preserves a significant collection of sculptures, paintings, drawings, photographs of sketches, and models. The two 17th-century gates were listed on the supplementary inventory of historical monuments by a decree in 1929.
No wifi here, which is odd considering they have a QR code to be scanned to help you navigate through the museum. Audio-guide recommended, it’s just 2€ more but totally worth it, providing context and information (although some infos ensuring how the statue of liberty was exclusively made for U.S seems a bit sketchy imo)
Overall, great museum, variety of work, multi-disciplinary.
Was treated poorly by the receptionist. Sad, ruined the experience. She thought she was being clever but was rather demeaning. Worst thing is she represents Colmar to the world.
Museum was interesting but very simple. A few models of the artist work and some photographs that are available online.
The most interesting areas were his studios and recreated rooms.
Nice museum, bigger than I expected. Focuses on Bartholdi’s life and work, especially the Statue of Liberty. I really enjoyed it.
Musée Unterlinden
| Address | Pl. des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 20 15 50 |
Nice collection of paintings from middle age and later period. Have you ever seen a serpent, low pitched wind music instrument? In use between the XVI and XIX centuries this one in the collection, was used in church.
Quaint kitchen patisserie molds.
Old ironworks, giant door locks with huge keys...
And the famous alttar of Issenheim painted by Grunewald in 1512-16 describing realistically ergotism. The painting had belonged to the monks who cared for victims of ergotism.
A very nice museum with well presented exhibition. Our tour was organized with easy routes to the exhibits. * The images are from the community outside of the museum.
What an incredible experience. We are so thankful we took the time to explore the Musée Unterlinden; it was truly a highlight of our trip. The sheer selection of artwork is stunning. While the main exposition focuses beautifully on the 1500s, we appreciated that the museum also embraces history and more recent paintings, offering something for everyone.
The most awe-inspiring moment for us was standing in the cathedral-like section of the museum viewing the famous multi-piece altarpiece [The Isenheim Altarpiece]. It was a genuinely moving experience.
While the admission price is a little higher than some other spots, it is absolutely worth it considering the quality and quantity of the art on display. A friendly tip to future visitors: do not be deceived by the exterior! The museum is massive and holds many surprises. Make sure to double-check the signs and maps so you don’t miss any wings—you can easily lose track of time wandering through such a beautiful place.
This is a brilliant museum.
The highlight is Grünewald’s Isenheim Altarpiece, and this is excellently displayed; but the whole place is a delight.
Housed in a medieval convent with superb modern additions (great staircases!), the collection isn’t as large as many big city museums, but this allows the (still numerous) objects to be sympathetically and expertly displayed.
Well worth a visit in its own right, or as part of a trip around the lovely town of Colmar
This wasn't a place I intended to visit whilst in Colmar but it turned out to be a great spot. Its extensive collection stretching back to the Roman times and going through the ages all the way to modern times, offers a nice glimpse into the history of the area. Besides giving a welcome respite from the crowds, it offered a few unique pieces that really capture ones attention and the hours just flew by. Highly recommended to all the history buffs!
PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S
| Address | 3 Rue Kléber, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 24 19 82 |
This small train tour is definitely worth joining. It’s a great way to better understand the local culture and also makes it easier to identify places you’d like to explore in more detail. The price is reasonable, and we had a very enjoyable experience. Accept card payment
Just finished the ride, and unfortunately what could have been a great experience was completely ruined by the way an issue was handled.
We got onto the train and waited for it to depart. After around 20 minutes, the train finally set off, so we put on the rather disgusting and clearly unclean headphones and waited for the commentary to begin. After another 10 minutes or so, we realised something was wrong. We asked the people in front of us whether their audio had started, and they confirmed that it had. At that point, it became clear that our headphones were faulty.
We decided to wait until the end of the journey rather than interrupt the experience, and when we got off, we told the driver that the headphones on the left-hand side, four rows back, weren’t working. He came over, checked them, and confirmed that they were indeed broken before directing me to speak to his manager.
Unfortunately, this is where the experience really went downhill.
The manager approached me with an extremely confrontational and accusatory attitude. He repeatedly asked why I hadn’t told him as soon as I sat down, and why I’d waited around 20 minutes before saying anything. I explained that I had no reason to believe there was supposed to be audio playing while the train was stationary, so I couldn’t possibly have known that the headphones were faulty until the commentary actually started.
He became increasingly angry and continued repeating the same point. I even used Google Translate to make sure there wasn’t a language barrier and that he understood exactly what I was saying, but the attitude continued. At one point, after becoming angry with me, he even threatened to call the police.
I’ll be honest, I did eventually reciprocate the attitude, which I regret, as it obviously didn’t help the situation. However, the underlying point remains. If you’re going to provide equipment that is essential to the experience, it should be checked beforehand, and customers shouldn’t be made to feel as though they’ve done something wrong when equipment provided to them doesn’t work.
It’s a shame because this could genuinely be a great experience. Unfortunately, based on what happened to us, I’d avoid it unless you’re happy with the possibility of sitting in silence for around 40 minutes while paying €16 for the privilege — and potentially being confronted by staff when you report a fault afterwards.
scam if you buy the tickets thru the Official QR code on the street, to let you know, the price is really cheap, and is not about the money we paid, is about the way the mistreated us.
we had buy 2 tickets thru this QRCode and we haven’t received any PDF file from the tickets, ay the time we told the guy from the train, he was yelling at us and being so rude in front of all the people saying that he need the file even when a we show him the payment success in their web page and also the mail from the card payment… for being a touristic place having people like this in charge is the worst, you need to keep in mind…., show you the picture form the rude guy and also form the success page for the payment….
A nice route, and a nice way to see the place for kids or adults who aren't keen on walking so far. Unfortunately the service was really terrible. The people in charge of seating were rude and seemed really bothered. For us it was ok, but for example they insisted that two other couples be split so they couldn't sit together and basically told them to get lost when they protested.... I can understand that their job isn't always easy, but a little kindness goes a long way!
As many have mentioned, the audio guide could be better, I didn't find it so bad though. The problem was more that the head phone often didn't work - we had two pairs where only one side worked, and one port that was broken so no headphones could be plugged in at all. I personally wouldn't go with this company again.
Very attractive little train ride, complete with headphones for all, that brings you around the old town in Colmar. Lots of information on the different churches, squares, houses and museums which you can return to after the journey. Train ticket gives you a discount in one of a few sites. A sweet way to wind you way around the cobbled narrow streets of Colmar.
Quartier des Tanneurs
| Address | Pt Rue des Tanneurs, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This is a very nice restaurant. The location is perfect. We enjoyed our dinner two days here.
Pretty city during Christmas time. However, the weather was not ideal this time for the holidays. In addition, crowded place
Sunch a loveley place. Worth a day trip to Cmar
Beautiful buildings in a charming neighborhood.
The holiday ambiance in the village was disappointing, marked by a lackluster Christmas spirit. The low-quality stalls with high prices further diminished the overall festive experience.
Place de l'Ancienne Douane
| Address | Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
This is the fairytale-like Colmar Christmas photo zone.
It's beautiful during the day, but it's even more spectacular at night when the lights come on.
So there are so many people even on weekdays.
Place de l'Ancienne Douane (Old Customs Square) is one of the most picturesque and historic squares in Colmar, France. Located in the heart of the old town, the square is named after the Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane), the city's former customs house built in 1480, where merchants once paid taxes on goods traded in Colmar.
Surrounded by beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, cafés, and restaurants, the square has been a lively commercial and social center for centuries. Today, it is a popular gathering place and an essential stop when exploring Colmar's historic center.
The square is notable for:
🏛️ Home to the historic Koïfhus (Old Customs House), Colmar's oldest public building
🏘️ Surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses and historic architecture
☕ Lined with cafés, restaurants, and outdoor terraces
🛍️ A vibrant location for markets, festivals, and cultural events
🚶 Situated within walking distance of Little Venice and other major attractions
📸 One of Colmar's most charming and photographed public squares
Place de l'Ancienne Douane beautifully reflects Colmar's medieval trading heritage and remains one of the city's most vibrant and atmospheric locations.
Beautiful colonial building with a gorgeous view of the Atlantic. The location is also suitable for private meetings and access is easy. The history of the place takes you back in time.
It’s 3rd time visiting this village, it doesn’t change too much, still beautiful and lovely
The Koïfhus or the former customs house. Constructed from 1433 to 1480. Two adjoining buildings were added in the 16th century. The condition of the building was in the 19th century so worrying that a demolition was envisaged. But the project was cancelled and restorations took place from 1895 to 1898. The turret and the glazed tiles came from that time. The last renovation in 2002 was to repair the sandstone balustrade in a Renaissance style which was removed in 1976.
Parc du Champ de Mars
| Address | Av. de la République, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 03 89 20 68 92 |
Beautiful peaceful park. Well worth a visit for a relaxing ice cream. There's a beautiful indoor carousel to ride on
We were here for the pre-Christmas holidays. Everything was decorated beautifully, just like New Year's. The park itself is quite spacious and has many beautiful locations, one of which is the city's logo. We enjoyed our stay here.
A beautiful green space that locals and visitors alike truly enjoy. The park is well maintained, with wide paths perfect for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing under the shade of its many trees. Families appreciate the playgrounds and open lawns, while others love the peaceful atmosphere for picnics or reading. Seasonal flowers and fountains add charm, making it a pleasant spot in every season. Its central location near the old town makes it easy to visit. Overall, it’s a welcoming and vibrant park that adds to the charm of Colmar.
Park in the middle of Colmar with a couple of well known statues, the big red Colmar lyeers in front of a beautiful fountain and an antiques marry go round. Underneath is the modern parking garage Rapp which is very convenient to start off a walk in the city.
The playground is currently built and will feature cute wooden animals.
My favorite little park so far. It is truly a friendly park for everyone. You can find people dancing, children playing with fountains, small dogs running happily and live blues if you’re lucky! It makes you feel it’s such a peaceful and beautiful world to live in!
Musée du Jouet
| Address | 40 Rue Vauban, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 41 93 10 |
Not worth it, guys. We went there not with huge expectations, but at least thinking we get have a somewhat interactive experience which is not the case at all. The museum is three storeys tall, the first floor dedicated to couple of games (mainly kids’ games and chess) to play, a carousel display and lego displays. The second floor is full of what feels like thrifted old dolls display, and a vitrine of a time-capsuled “playroom” and a philosophical wall on toys and the evolution thereof. The third floor is full of miniature cities of Alsace and miniature trains. Cute, but underwhelming.
A fascinating museum about the history of toys. You can find many toys from different era like Barbie, teddy bears, dolls, cars, ... It's a pretty small museum but you can spend an hour or more inside. There's also some board games that you can use during your visit which is nice. It's a museum for everybody but I would say mostly older kids and adults. It's more on the educational side which wasn't an issue for me. I learned a lot of things and enjoyed my time. Also the staff is lovely!
The museum itself is beautiful and has a wonderful toy collection that both children and adults can enjoy. We were genuinely excited and full of anticipation as we arrived, eager to share a joyful experience together.
Unfortunately, our experience was overshadowed by a male staff member on the upper floor. While my child was absentmindedly leaning against the glass, watching the train without realizing any warning was directed at him, a staff member suddenly approached, shouting loudly and unnecessarily grabbing him. The suddenness and intensity of this reaction left both of us shaken my child was visibly frightened and confused, and I felt a surge of alarm and distress witnessing him being handled so harshly.
This is a toy museum a place primarily designed for children. Of course, children should be taught to respect the exhibits, but they also deserve to be treated with patience, kindness, and understanding. Staff working in a children’s museum should know how to communicate with young visitors without shouting or resorting to unnecessary physical contact.
After this incident, my son did not want to continue exploring the museum, and we left much earlier than planned. It was disappointing because what could have been a wonderful family experience ended on a very upsetting note.
I hope the museum provides better training for its staff.
Great museum with a lot of beautiful pieces. Perfect for adults and children! Very nicely put together and presented, like taking a time caspule into the past (and the future). A must see !
This is a nice little museum, there are three floors with various different toys to look at, my children are between the ages of 5 and 10. They did not really have much interest in looking at the toys for too long. I would say we got through the three floors within 15 minutes, but I love that they have multiple games like chess, etc. On the first floor that can be played. There's also a young toddler section with blocks and a soft mat and a couch where the parents can sit. There's also a small arcade machine which was very popular so we didn't get to play on it. There are many things to see and myself. I did enjoy looking up at the exhibit of the Playmobil and there's also toy trains on the top level. There is the lift so access for everyone. I feel like there was plenty to do here but I wouldn't say it's a full day activity you're looking at. Maybe an hour at most, but I think the price reflects this very well. Definitely worth a visit if you're here.
Église des Dominicains
| Address | 3 Pl. des Dominicains, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 3:00 – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 24 46 57 |
Beautiful church with great architecture and color of the stone. It is magnificently rising in the center around the beautiful building of Colmar with some nice trees around where you can enjoy a nice walk or sit for a while. I recommend checking it out l.
Less adorned than most church's but this one is all about the Madonna of the Rosebush. They actually let you go behind the painting where there is more rose themed art. Beautiful stained glass.
Too crowded in high season. But for a good reason. Annecy could compete with the best of France's flowering villages, which is remarkable given that it is a sizable city. Driving into and out of town in summer might cost you an hour each.
Very beautiful church in Colmar
Big church locate in the middle of the city near saint martin church .Entre fee for2€ /person but inside nothing to see much just a drawing picture of Madona of the rose bush and a little
Grande roue de Colmar
| Address | 17 Rue du Chasseur, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 03 89 20 68 92 |
Too expensive and the ride is too short for this money.
9€ pro person is just too much for 2-round ride.
No breathtaking view of the city from above. No illumination for Christmas.
It definitely isn’t worth 30 + mins waiting in the line, an expensive ticket and no cool view.
Not fan with this big wheel as it has nothing to do with Christmas though Xmas market is lovely.
Good security and anti-terrorist devices as well.
Not for great view. But it’s joyful with your family.
What a waste of time and money. The view of the big wheel from the ground is very pretty. However, once on top, you can’t see much (we went there for Christmas lights/markets). It’s very cold and not exciting at all. It takes longer to fill it up than to make the 2 loops, once it’s filled. 8 eur/ person for nothing.
Not worth the price and the time spent. Not even a complete round without a stop.
Essential Tips for Visiting Colmar
To ensure your visit to this Alsatian gem is as seamless and enjoyable as possible, it helps to understand the rhythm of the city and how to navigate its nuances. Colmar is compact, but its popularity requires a bit of strategic planning to avoid the densest crowds while maximizing your cultural immersion. Here are five practical strategies to elevate your trip.
First, consider the timing of your visit carefully. While Colmar is stunning year-round, the summer months and the weeks leading up to Christmas see the highest influx of tourists. If you prefer a quieter experience with mild weather, aim for the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to early June) or early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the vineyards are lush, the temperatures are ideal for walking, and you can enjoy the terraces without a long wait.
Second, make the city your base for exploring the wider region, not just the town itself. Colmar is perfectly positioned for day trips to the surrounding wine villages like Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, which are often less crowded in the evenings. The local bus network, known as "Trace," connects these villages efficiently and affordably. Staying in Colmar allows you to experience the town’s illuminated streets after the day-trippers have departed, which is when the magic truly happens.
Third, embrace the local gastronomy beyond the main tourist drags. While the restaurants lining the canals offer beautiful views, they often come with inflated prices. Venture a few streets back into the "Petite Venise" neighborhood or toward the covered market to find family-run winstubs where locals dine. Be sure to try the regional specialties: Baeckeoffe (a slow-cooked meat and potato stew), Munster cheese, and a slice of authentic Kugelhopf.
Fourth, invest in a Colmar City Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions. The pass often includes free admission to the Unterlinden Museum, the Bartholdi Museum, and a boat ride on the canal, as well as discounts on guided tours. If your itinerary includes two or three major paid sights, the pass usually pays for itself and saves you time queuing at ticket counters.
Finally, wear comfortable, sturdy footwear. The historic center is largely pedestrianized, but the streets are paved with uneven cobblestones that can be slippery when wet. High heels are a recipe for a twisted ankle. The best way to explore Colmar is on foot, so supportive shoes will allow you to wander the labyrinthine alleys from dawn until dusk without discomfort.
As the sun sets and the warm glow of street lamps reflects off the pastel facades of the canals, Colmar transforms into a place of quiet romance and reflection. It is a city that asks very little of you other than to be present, to look up, and to appreciate the artistry of a world preserved. Whether you are an art aficionado, a wine lover, or simply a traveler in search of beauty, this Alsatian treasure delivers an experience that lingers in the memory long after you have returned home.
Take the time to get lost in its streets, strike up a conversation with a local vintner, and allow the slower pace of Alsatian life to wash over you. In a world that moves increasingly fast, Colmar stands as a testament to the enduring value of preservation, craftsmanship, and the simple joy of a beautiful view.
