Colmar, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ready to explore Colmar, France? It's known for its pretty half-timbered houses, lovely canals, and rich culture. This place will make your trip memorable. Walk the charming streets of the Old Town. Taste Alsatian dishes and check out the wine route. You'll love Colmar's beauty and history.

What makes Colmar special? How can you experience its true charm? Let's uncover the wonders of this alluring town in France.

Key Takeaways

• Colmar, France is a charming Alsatian town with a unique blend of French and German influences.
• Explore the enchanting streets of the Colmar Old Town, including the picturesque Petite Venise (Little Venice) and the lively Grand Rue (Main Street).
• Marvel at the architectural wonders of Colmar, such as the St. Martin's Church, the Pfister House, and the House of Heads.
• Indulge in the flavors of Alsatian cuisine, including the iconic Tarte Flambée and Baeckeoffe.
• Discover the legacy of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, at the Bartholdi Museum.

Explore the Enchanting Streets of Colmar's Old Town

Colmar's Old Town is a place full of history and charm, showing through its beautiful streets and old sites. The heart of this charming area is the Petite Venise, or "Little Venice." Here, you'll see vibrant, half-timber buildings by the Lauch River.

In the past, This river was moved to the town center in the Middle Ages. It did this to provide water for people and businesses. The land around it bustled with butchers, tanners, and fishmongers. Now, you can stroll by the canals, visit the stores, and enjoy the view of boats passing by. The Quai de la Poissonnerie (Fishmonger's District) looks different each season, making it even more magical.

Grand Rue (Main Street)

The Grand Rue is Colmar's lively center, with engaging half-timbered buildings and stone streets. Walking along this old path is a great way to feel the city's history and charm.

Tanner's District (Quartier des Tanneurs)

The Tanner's District from the 17th and 18th centuries was where the town's tanners lived. The houses there had special design. They were made for hanging and drying animal skins on the upper levels.

Fishmonger's District (Quai de la Poissonnerie)

The Fishmonger's District is a lively place with its colorful buildings by the Lauch River. In the past, it was a key spot for fishermen and their trades.

Marvel at the Architectural Wonders

The buildings in Colmar tell stories filled with history and beauty. Among these, three structures stand out:

St. Martin's Church (Collegiale Saint-Martin)

Next is the magnificent

Pfister House (Maison Pfister)

, along with the famous

House of Heads (Maison de Tetes)

The St. Martin's Church, over 1,000 years old, stands tall in the Old Town. It’s a masterpiece from the 13th to 14th centuries, mixing red and gold stones. Its Alsatian roof is unique, covered in red, yellow, and green tiles. Inside, discover ancient stained glass and a Baroque organ from 1755.

The Pfister House, from 1537, showcases the Renaissance style in its glory. It sits on the charming Rue des Marchands. The house is covered in detailed paintings, showing Bible stories and German royalty.

The House of Heads (Maison de Tetes) is from 1609. Its front is adorned with more than 100 carved head sculptures. This makes it one of Colmar’s most memorable Colmar architecture buildings.

Indulge in the Flavors of Alsatian Cuisine

Discover the rich culinary traditions of Alsace through Colmar's tasty foods. Try the famous Tarte Flambée and the satisfying Baeckeoffe.

Tarte Flambée (Alsatian Pizza)

Try Tarte Flambée, known as Alsatian cuisine, which resembles pizza. However, it has unique flavors. It has a thin crust with cheese, ham, and mushrooms. This blend shows the region's rich food history.

Baeckeoffe (Meat Stew)

Baeckeoffe is a must-try from Alsatian cuisine. It's a meat stew with pork, lamb, and beef. This dish is slow-cooked with white wine sauce. Trying it feels like a visit to the heart of Alsace.

Covered Market (Marché Couvert)

Explore the Covered Market (Marché Couvert) in Colmar for local treats. About 20 merchants offer Alsatian cuisine staples. You'll find olive oils, cheeses, and fresh produce. Enjoy regional meals and snacks in the cafes, and dive into Alsatian cuisine.

Explore the Alsace Wine Route

Just north of Colmar, you'll find the lovely town of Riquewihr. It sits in a cozy spot among the Vosges Mountains. The area is known for its amazing Alsatian wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. It's a must-visit for wine lovers on the Alsace Wine Route.

Riquewihr

In the heart of the Alsace Wine Route is Hunawihr. This town is full of charming half-timbered houses and an old church with a bell tower. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to dive into the Alsace wine world.

Hunawihr

Ribeauville is another gem on the Alsace Wine Route. This town is rich with history, with its old buildings. And it’s close to the Vosges Mountains. Visitors get to see stunning views and enjoy the wine culture of Alsace.

Ribeauville

Discover the Legacy of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi

Colmar is where the famous sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was born. He's best known for creating the Statue of Liberty. The

Bartholdi Museum (Musée Bartholdi)

The Bartholdi Museum is in the house where the artist grew up. It shows his models, sketches, and personal stuff. You can see his many sculptures there, like the Lion of Belfort and the Schwendi Fountain.

Follow the golden triangles in Colmar with the Statue of Liberty's head. They lead you to his works. These markers show how proud Colmar is of his art and the Statue of Liberty.

Admire the Art at Unterlinden Museum

The Unterlinden Museum sits in Colmar, beckoning art lovers. Inside, a 13th-century convent and a 1906 baths host its treasures. The spotlight is on the Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald.

Grünewald’s masterpiece brings the Renaissance to life. His work shines in this space steeped in history. You’ll marvel at the piece, feeling connected to the past.

There's more beyond just the Isenheim Altarpiece too. Meet the experts, the art conservationists, and see their craft. They ensure art’s preservation, adding a unique layer to your visit.

Every visit to the Unterlinden Museum is enlightening. It’s a journey through Colmar’s cultural depth. The dedication of those who protect its art is a highlight you won’t forget.

Experience the Magic of Colmar's Christmas Markets

Colmar turns into a winter wonderland during the Colmar Christmas markets. It's filled with charming markets and a festive mood. You can walk through the Alsace Christmas markets, check out the crafts and food, and feel the magic of the city's Old Town. It's all lit up with twinkling lights and holiday joy.

Colmar offers many Colmar winter activities like ice skating and enjoying mulled wine. You can also shop at the Christmas market stalls full of handcrafted items and local food. This makes Colmar a special place during the holidays, attracting visitors with its magical vibe.

"Colmar's Christmas markets are an absolute must-visit. The twinkling lights, the festive stalls, and the charming old-world ambiance create an unforgettable holiday experience."

Colmar’s Colmar Christmas markets are perfect for a romantic trip or a family holiday. They are sure to fill your heart with joy during this magical season.

Colmar, France: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Colmar, France is a beautiful mix of French and German cultures. It offers wonderful experiences. You'll love the enchanting streets of the Old Town and architectural wonders. Don't forget to taste the flavors of Alsatian cuisine. Enjoy the Alsace wine route as well.

Discover the story of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and see amazing art at the Unterlinden Museum. Don't miss Colmar's Christmas markets. Even if you only have a day or three, Colmar will charm you.

Explore the enchanting streets of the Old Town and the architectural wonders with this guide. It showcases the best Colmar France attractions for a memorable visit. Dive into the Colmar sightseeing highlights to discover its deep heritage and lively culture.

Plan Your Visit to Colmar

Colmar is beautiful all year, with something special in every season. In the spring and summer months, you’ll find colorful flowers and warm Colmar weather. This time is great for strolling through Old Town and walking in the vineyards. Autumn is when Colmar’s colors shine bright. In the winter season, Colmar turns into a fairytale. It’s filled with Christmas cheer, markets, and lights.

Where to Stay

Colmar has places to stay for every budget and taste. You can pick from lovely boutique hotels, comfy bed and breakfasts, or lavish spots with great views. Some top picks are the luxurious five-star La Maison des Tetes, the scenic Le Colombier by the river, and the well-placed Hotel Saint Martin.

Getting Around

Colmar’s Old Town is small and ideal for walking. It’s the best way to see the beautiful streets and find cool spots. For trips a bit further, you can use buses and trains. These help you explore the nearby Alsace region. You might also enjoy biking or the Colmar tourist train for a unique view of the city.

Conclusion

Colmar, France, is a unique place blending French and German influences. It offers unforgettable experiences. You can walk the charming streets of Colmar Old Town, admire beautiful buildings, and taste Alsatian dishes on the Alsace wine route. Colmar is perfect for a special and immersive trip. This guide helps you find the best things to do in Colmar.

Colmar is full of cultural heritage and charm. It has many attractions for all kinds of travelers. With this guide, you can plan an amazing trip through Alsace. You'll truly get to know Colmar, France.

So, why wait? Plan your trip to Colmar, France, and enjoy its unique mix of cultures. You'll remember not just the Colmar sights but also the beautiful Alsace region. Your time in Colmar will be memorable.