Nestled among the vineyards of the Alsace wine route, Colmar feels like a town plucked from the pages of a fairy tale. With its pastel half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and cobblestone lanes, the city offers a deeply romantic and immersive historical experience. Unlike larger French cities that can feel overwhelming, Colmar invites you to slow down, wander, and appreciate centuries of well-preserved architecture.
The history of Colmar stretches back over a thousand years, with its rich heritage shaped by both French and German influences. This unique blend is visible in the town’s architecture, cuisine, and local dialect, making it a distinct cultural gem in the Grand Est region. From medieval religious art to the birthplace of iconic symbols, the city holds treasures that appeal to art lovers, history buffs, and casual explorers alike.
Because the historic center is remarkably compact and largely pedestrian-friendly, you can cover significant ground in a single day. However, to truly absorb the atmosphere of the "Little Venice" district and the quiet corners of the old town, a slower pace is recommended. Many of the most significant landmarks are located within a few minutes’ walk of each other, allowing for a seamless journey through time.
Visiting Colmar is not just about checking off sights; it is about experiencing the living history of a town that has carefully maintained its soul. The well-preserved facades are not mere museum pieces; they house bustling restaurants, artisan shops, and local families. This balance between preservation and daily life is what makes the historical sites here feel so vibrant and accessible.
Before planning your itinerary, it is helpful to understand the layout of the old town. Most of the essential stops are clustered around the Rue des Marchands, the Place de la Cathédrale, and the Quai de la Poissonnerie. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, as the uneven cobblestones, while beautiful, can be tiring to walk on for extended periods.
Below is a curated guide to the most historically significant and culturally rich locations in this Alsatian treasure. These sites represent the pinnacle of Colmar’s medieval, Renaissance, and classical heritage, offering a comprehensive overview of why this town is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
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! ✨🇫🇷
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.
Maison Pfister
| Address | 11 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
This amazing House was built in 1537 for the hatter Ludwig Scherer, who had made his fortune in trade.
I came here on a recommendation I received in Strasbourg! A lovely lady spotted my Studio Ghibli tattoos and informed me that the inspiration for the initial town came from Colmar, so I just had to detour on my road trip to see for myself.
It’s SO BEAUTIFUL, and the inspiration is very evident. The area itself had lovely street music going on and since I visited a week and a half before Easter it was beautifully decorated. Tons of markets in the area to explore.
DO NOT VISIT THIS PLACE WITH YOUR WALLET.
We just visited colmar and this place and they stole our wallet.
The thives are professionells. They bought online stuff in another country (arabic emirates), where you dont need a Pin and so spent 10000 euro with the card.
Then we went to the police and there were waiting a lot of other people, because all got robbed.
Police cannot patrol outside, because "its to hot". Great place!
This building ist however quite nice..
追尋《霍爾移動城堡》裡的魔法足跡 🔮
Stepping into a fairytale! Built in the 1500s, this medieval-looking Alsatian house was commissioned by a wealthy hatter—just like Sophie, a hatter herself—though much poorer, of course... With its whimsical turrets, wooden balconies, and storybook charm, this place looks straight out of a magical adventure.
Can you picture Howl landing here with Calcifer’s magic?
#HowlsMovingCastle #GhibliVibes #MedievalFantasy #FairytaleTravel #AlsatianTown
Get the souvenir coin! So nice!
Maison des Têtes
| Address | 19 Rue des Têtes, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful hotel and very attentive staff. Parking was quite cramped and widespread construction across the city made driving interesting… Besides that and noise from the streets the experience in the hotel itself was flawless. Can highly recommend the breakfast and Restaurant Girardin.
Lovely hotel. Staff very polite, courteous and helpful.
Food was delicious.
My only complaint is that the bedroom is was in, did not have the facility to have a stand up shower only hand held. That issue could easily remedied but having a glass short panel on the side of tge bath and a hook on the wall for the shower.
Had a wonderful stay 🙂 Clean, cute, great location, and we got a tasty little cake after! So cute! I’d stay there again for sure if I was going back to Colmar.
one of the beautiful tiny center with historical background
Very beautiful building whose intricate and fascinating facade is very worth visiting if you are 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.
Zum Kragen
| Address | 9 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
I came to Colmar village with the recommendation of everyone who went to France. This is a really cute place with historical houses. You can complete the tour in half a day. There are many beautiful lakes nearby. You can go there for the rest of the day. Visiting Colmar village for those who come to France adds fun to their trip.
Zum Kragen is a Renaissance house, that began construction in 1588. Just in from of it is a narrow passage, formerly called "Kragengässlein", that runs between Merchants Street and Cathedral Square. There is a carved corner post dated 1609, of a draper leaning on his yard.
Très beau (et vieux) bâtiment à côté de la célèbre Maison Pfister.
It was constructed all the way back in the 15th century (14e siècle). Look out for the man at the edge of the building (pretty hard to miss).
This building and the buildings around/behind this are some of the most beautiful in Colmar!
Impressive! Beautifully preserved historical building! Some have already explain its background, therefore needless to say it’s own uniqueness existence and beauty.
Such beautiful architecture is hard to find, but in Colmar it’s just everywhere.
Maison Schongauer
| Address | 36 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
The house "Zum Schwan" (at the swan) or "huselin zum Swan" (little house at the swan), distinguished by its oriel window and sculpted door lintels, is known for having housed the workshop of the Colmar artist Martin Schongauer.
It is often mistakenly believed to have been the home of the painter Martin Schongauer (1450-1491) ; in fact, it was one of the properties belonging to the Schongauer family, who actually lived at the "House with the Viola" at 36 Rue des Marchands.
Martin Schongauer (c. 1450–1491) was born in Colmar to a goldsmith father who had purchased citizenship in 1445. After an itinerant apprenticeship, which likely included a period in Flanders, Martin Schongauer returned to Colmar where he created one of his major works : the Virgin of the Rosebush in 1473. In 1477, he acquired the house "zum Schwan" to establish his workshop. After the artist's death, the house passed to his brother Ludwig, also an engraver, who lived there until around 1495. Other artists subsequently occupied the house, followed by several burghers, merchants, and artisans, including a hatter, a pewterer, and a pastry chef.
Must see
Picturesque and typical of the region, look closely at the houses, they compete in detail, they are all different, tall in size and colour.
This large house is located in the heart of the city's historic center, on the corner of Rue des Marchands and the street that bears its name. Built in the style of Alsatian houses of the period, it is famous for having been the home of the renowned Colmar-born artist Martin Schongauer. He was the most important German engraver until the arrival of Dürer and a source of inspiration for many artists who followed in his footsteps. A beautiful mansion.
Very pretty houses full of color.
Porte de Colmar
| Address | 1 Rue de Colmar, 68600 Neuf-Brisach |
|---|---|
| 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 | — |
Town famous for its fortifications dating from Louis XIV times
Excellent stroll around the city walls
Very interesting and well maintained historic place
When you are interested in fortificacions and French history, this town is definitely interesting to you.
Besides the museum, the location is not really geared towards tourism. The city walls with the gates are not properly accessible. Still, I highly recommend that you walk up and walk around to get a better perspective of all the military defenses.
Dead place with nothing to do. Museum was supposed to be closed on tuesday so I went there on Monday. Faced a closed door and nobody knew why!?
no free access to the interior of the fortress.. inside in walls )
Water tower from 1886
| Address | Av. Raymond Poincaré, 68000 Colmar |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Wow, what a cool spot! The building is an old water tower and it looks amazing. It’s super photogenic, I really loved for looking at art. It’s right by the river too, so the location is perfect for a nice walk after. Definitely check it out if you’re in town!"
Quite a cool watertower, that was in use for over 100 years. Built by the Germans when Colmar was German.
If you are in the neighbourhood it is worth a visit, it's located in a little park.
Very beautiful old tower embedded in a nice park. 🤩
Striking old water tower sitting in a small park beside the river on the western edge of Colmar's centre. It looks like a chess rook, which gives it a rather fairy-tale quality that fits Colmar well. Built between 1884 and 1886 during the German annexation of Alsace, which explains the neo-Gothic Germanic style.
Nice place to relax and have a break
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.
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!
The Roesselmann Fountain
| Address | Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, 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 |
Fontaine Roesselmann (Roesselmann Fountain) is a historic fountain located in Place des Six Montagnes Noires in the heart of Colmar, France. Erected in 1888, the fountain commemorates Jean Roesselmann, the 13th-century provost (Schultheiss) of Colmar, who became a symbol of the city's struggle for independence and civic freedom.
The monument features a bronze statue of Roesselmann standing atop an ornate stone fountain. He is depicted in medieval attire, holding a sword, representing his courage and leadership during conflicts between the citizens of Colmar and local feudal authorities.
The fountain is notable for:
- ⛲ A historic monument honoring Jean Roesselmann, a medieval hero of Colmar
- 🗿 A bronze statue standing on an elegant 19th-century stone fountain
- ⚔️ Symbolizing courage, justice, and the defense of the city's freedoms
- 🏛️ Located in one of Colmar's most charming historic squares
- 📜 Reflecting the city's rich medieval history and civic heritage
- 📸 A popular landmark for visitors exploring Colmar's old town
The Fontaine Roesselmann is an important symbol of Colmar's medieval past and remains one of the city's most admired historical monuments.
Beautiful fountain and square where you can enjoy great Christmas market.
This statue by Auguste Bartholdi (1888) depicts Jean Roesselmann, who lost his life in 1262 while victoriously defending Colmar and its communal liberties against the troops and ambitions of the Bishop of Strasbourg. The man considered Colmar's first hero bears the likeness of Hercule de Peyerimhoff, mayor of Colmar from 1855 to 1877, who was dismissed for refusing to submit to German authorities. Removed by the Germans in 1943, the bronze statue was restored and reinstalled in 1945 on a white stone monument adorned with four fish serving as spouts.
The place turns to be lovely Christmas market and outdoor carousel for children during Christmas time. This area becomes so crowded and lovely charming place to visit for tourist. You can talk 15-20 minutes walk from Colmar train station.
I liked seeing this fountain monument at Place des 6 Montagnes Noires. It pays honour to Colmar's first hero Jean Roesselmann who defended the city against the troops of the Bishop of Strasbourg during the 13th-century.
It seems the bronze statue was the work of Auguste Bartholdi and was erected in 1888. Bartholdi depicted Roesselmann in the manner of Hercule de Peyerimhff, city mayor (1855-77) who was relieved of his duties after refusing to submit to German authorities at that time.
The statue stands upon a white marble pedestal with bronze fish from which water spouts from their mouths over a base held up by thick columns and into a small ground level basin. It is a nice fountain monument that adds to the ambience of the small public square here.
During our December visit, the base of the fountain was covered up and protected while the annual Christmas Market was ongoing. However, the statue itself easy to spot and view during the festivities.
Great location, wonderful fountain with its outstanding sculptures.
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 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.
Fontaine Schwendi
| Address | 12 Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane, 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 |
Nice fountain. You can see Belle enthusiasts in yellow ball gown costumes around it if you are lucky!☀️
When we visited on Easter the fountain was unfortunately blocked by a stand. I guess it will be gone once the Easter festival is over. It was blocking the whole fountain and made the experience feel smaller.
Lovely fountain and statue installed in 1898 depicting Lazarus Schwendi (1522-1583) by Auguste Bartholdi, famous sculptor from Colmar to be the designer of the Statue of Liberty located on Liberty Island !
Demolished in 1940, the fountain was rebuilt after the war with a smaller basin, facing a different direction, to once again house the statue in the Place de l'Ancienne Douane (Old Customs House Square).
A military leader in the service of Emperor Maximilian II between 1564 and 1568, Lazarus Schwendi went to fight the Turks in Hungary, from where he is said to have brought back the Tokay grape variety. Auguste Bartholdi drew inspiration from this legend, having his statue of Schwendi brandish a vine. However, it is documented that Alsatian Tokay is a Pinot Gris known in the region since the Middle Ages, and the term Tokay is exclusively reserved for Hungarian wines ...
Nice and historical plaza in the heart of Colmar with a beautiful fountain at its center
This historic fountain, originally designed by Auguste Bartholdi in 1898, features a striking bronze statue of Lazare de Schwendi (1522-1583). Although it was demolished in 1940, the fountain was lovingly rebuilt after the war with a slightly smaller basin and a new orientation. Today, the statue stands proudly once again at the former customs location.
Lazare de Schwendi served as a war chief from 1564 to 1568 under Emperor Maximilian II, where he fought against the Turks in Hungary. It is believed that he brought back a grape variety from Tokay. Inspired by this legend, Auguste Bartholdi depicted Lazare de Schwendi holding a vine stock in his hand.
This is a nice fountain monument dedicated to Lazare de Schwendi (1522-83) that is the work of Auguste Bartholdi and was erected in 1898.
I enjoyed viewing the bronze statue of Schwendi in armour, raising his his right hand while holding the vines of Tokay, a variety of grape from the region.
The statue stands upon an ornamental pedestal with extended spouts which spill water into a ground level basin below.
The fountain was not in operation during our recent December visit, instead filled with Christmas wreath, garlands and other holiday decorations.
Many have said it’s small and easy to miss but I would disagree. Beautiful even without water when when visited.
Installed in 1898, this fountain is surmounted by a bronze statue of Auguste Bartholdi representing Lazarus of Schwendi (1522-1583).
Demolished in 1940, the fountain was rebuilt after the war with a smaller basin and oriented differently, to accommodate the statue again on the Place de l'Ancienne Douane.
Warlord in the service of Emperor Maximilian II between 1564 and 1568, Lazarus of Schwendi left to fight the Turks in Hungary from where he allegedly brought back the Tokay grape variety. Auguste Bartholdi was inspired by this legend to brandish a vine cep to his statue of Schwendi.
Tips for Visiting Colmar’s Historic Sites
To make the most of your time exploring the rich history of this Alsatian town, a little preparation goes a long way. The layout of the city and the popularity of certain attractions mean that timing and logistics can greatly impact your experience. The following practical tips will help you navigate the streets like a seasoned traveler and uncover the hidden nuances of the local heritage.
- Start Early to Avoid the Crowds: The narrow streets of the old town, particularly the Petite Venise area, become very congested by late morning. Arriving before 9:00 AM allows you to photograph the historic facades without tour groups in your frame and enjoy a quieter, more atmospheric stroll.
- Invest in the Colmar City Pass: If you plan to visit multiple museums, such as the Unterlinden Museum and the Bartholdi Museum, the Colmar City Pass offers significant savings. It often includes entry to the main attractions and can sometimes provide discounts on guided tours or local transport.
- Look Up and Down: The most intricate architectural details are often above eye level or near the ground. Pay attention to the carved wooden beams, the dates inscribed on stone lintels, and the unique wrought-iron signs that hang above shop doors. These details tell the story of the town’s medieval guilds and wealthy merchants.
- Wear Practical Footwear: While the historic center is best explored on foot, the cobblestones can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip are essential for safely navigating the lanes and enjoying a full day of exploration without fatigue.
- Check Seasonal Opening Hours: Many historic sites and museums in Colmar operate on reduced hours during the winter months or close for lunch. Always verify the specific opening times for the date of your visit, as they can vary significantly from the summer high season.
Walking through Colmar is a lesson in the resilience of beauty and the importance of preserving cultural identity. Every facade, fountain, and church spire contributes to a narrative that has survived wars and the passage of centuries. While the town is undeniably popular with tourists, it retains an authentic charm that feels deeply connected to its Alsatian roots.
Whether you are drawn by the allure of medieval art, the genius of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, or simply the desire to wander through a living postcard, Colmar delivers on every level. Taking the time to explore these historic sites will not only enrich your understanding of the region but also leave you with lasting memories of one of France’s most enchanting destinations.
