Colmar, a picturesque gem nestled in the Alsace region of France, is a delightful destination that offers a wealth of things to do in Colmar for every traveler. Known for its charming colorful half-timbered houses, this fairy tale town boasts narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, making it easy to explore on foot. Whether you’re wandering through the Quartier des Tanneurs or enjoying a boat ride along the Lauch River, Colmar’s enchanting atmosphere will captivate you.
A trip to Colmar is incomplete without indulging in the region’s renowned wine tastings and savoring traditional Alsatian food like tarte flambée, Munster cheese. The town is strategically located near the famous villages on the Alsace Wine Route, making it an ideal base for trips from Colmar to sample local wines such as Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris.
🏡 Best Hotels in Colmar
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: L'esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar - MGallery
- ✨ 5-Star: Les Suites du Centre Historique Colmar
- 🏨 4-Star: Résidence Les Rives de la Fecht - Colmar Ouest
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Logis Hotel Restaurant Le Faudé
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Colombier
- 🏢 Apartment: ColmarAppart Vauban
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Reflets sur la Lauch
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Turenne
🗺️ Best Guided Tours
- Guided Day Trip from Colmar: The 4 Wonders of the Alsace from €110 (⭐ 4.8/5)
- Segway Tours: 2h in Colmar from €70 (⭐ 4.7/5)
- Choco Story in Colmar: Chocolate Museum from €12.50 (⭐ 4.6/5)
- Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar from €15 (⭐ 4.5/5)
- Colmar Chocolate Creation Workshop at Choco Story from €40 (⭐ 4.9/5)
Top 10 Things to Do in Colmar
1. 🏰 Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
Waterfront Magic. Winding through the heart of Colmar, Little Venice showcases the city’s most enchanting views with its colorful half-timbered houses mirrored in the calm waters of the Lauch River. The charming district, where fishermen and wine merchants once lived, now offers delightful boat rides that provide unique perspectives of the medieval architecture and the famous colored houses that make this area so photogenic.
Local Experience. The narrow cobblestoned streets lined with overflowing flower pots and wooden galleries create perfect photo opportunities, while the waterfront restaurants serve traditional Alsatian cuisine like tarte flambée and Munster cheese. The area becomes especially magical during the Christmas season when twinkling lights reflect off the water and create a fairy tale atmosphere.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
2. ⛪ St. Martin’s Church (Église Saint-Martin)
Gothic Splendor. Standing majestically in Colmar old town since 1234, this Roman Catholic church showcases remarkable Gothic architecture with its distinctive octagonal turret and intricate stonework. The church’s imposing presence dominates the heart of town, making it an unmissable landmark that has witnessed centuries of Colmar’s rich history between France and Germany.
Artistic Heritage. Inside, visitors can discover exceptional artwork from medieval times, including masterpieces by Martin Schongauer, whose work reflects the German influence on local art. The church’s stained glass windows and architectural details tell stories of the trading league era, while its peaceful interior provides a serene escape from the bustling Grand Rue below.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
3. 🎨 Unterlinden Museum
Cultural Treasure. Housed in a beautifully preserved Dominican convent, the Unterlinden Museum stands as Colmar’s premier cultural institution, featuring the world-famous Isenheim Altarpiece. The museum’s collection spans from medieval to contemporary art, showcasing the region’s artistic evolution through centuries of French and German influence.
Historical Legacy. Beyond its impressive artwork collection, the museum itself tells the story of Colmar’s rich heritage through its architecture and exhibits. The recent renovation has created additional space for temporary exhibitions while maintaining the authentic character of this historic building, making it a must-visit destination for fellow travelers interested in both art and history.
⭐ Unterlinden Museum – Check availability of tickets
4. 🏠 Pfister House (Maison Pfister)
Architectural Gem. Built in 1537, the Pfister House represents one of the finest examples of German Renaissance architecture in Alsace. Its ornate facade features stunning medieval frescoes, an octagonal turret, and wooden gallery that showcase the wealth of its original merchant owners.
Historical Wonder. The building’s intricate decorations tell stories of biblical scenes and secular imagery, while its corner location on Rue des Marchands makes it a perfect starting point for exploring Colmar’s old town. The house stands as a testament to the prosperity of the region’s wine trade during the 16th century.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
5. 🏪 Covered Market (Marché Couvert)
Culinary Haven. Located in a restored 14th-century customs house, the Covered Market offers a feast for the senses with local Alsatian specialties, fresh produce, and regional wines. The market’s architecture combines both French and German influences, reflecting Colmar’s unique cultural heritage.
Gastronomic Journey. Inside, visitors can sample local delicacies, from sweet and savory treats to Alsatian wines like Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. The market serves as a central meeting point for locals and tourists alike, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life in Colmar.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
6. 👥 House of Heads (Maison des Têtes)
Architectural Marvel. Named for the 106 small heads decorating its facade, this remarkable building dates back to 1609 and represents the height of German Renaissance architecture. The building’s ornate decorations and distinctive features make it one of the most photographed spots in Colmar’s old town.
Cultural Icon. Today, the building houses a fine dining restaurant where visitors can experience French cuisine with an Alsatian twist. The interior maintains its historic charm while offering modern comforts, making it a perfect blend of past and present.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
7. 🏛️ Customs House (Koïfhus)
Historical Significance. The oldest public building in Colmar, the Koïfhus served as both a customs house and meeting place for the region’s merchants since the 15th century. Its strategic location at the intersection of major trade routes made it a crucial center for commerce during the trading league era.
Architectural Beauty. The building’s distinctive design features a ground floor built from stone and an upper floor constructed with traditional half-timbering, showcasing the typical Alsatian architectural style. Today, it hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
⭐ Best Activities
Interactive City Tour: Self-guided Colmar – Explore the charming city of Colmar at your own pace with this interactive self-guided tour. Using a mobile app, discover key attractions and hidden gems while following engaging audio commentary and fun challenges.
8. 🏘️ Tanner’s District (Quartier des Tanneurs)
Historic Quarter. The Tanner’s District represents one of Colmar’s most well-preserved medieval neighborhoods, where tanners once lived and worked along the narrow canals. The distinctive tall houses with their open wooden galleries were designed specifically for drying leather.
Cultural Heritage. Walking through these narrow streets today offers visitors a glimpse into medieval life, with many buildings maintaining their original features from the 17th and 18th centuries. The area becomes particularly atmospheric during the early evening when soft lighting illuminates the historic facades.
9. 🐟 Fishmonger’s District (Quai de la Poissonnerie)
Riverside Charm. Once the bustling center of Colmar’s fishing industry, the Fishmonger’s District features picturesque houses with colorful shutters and flower-adorned balconies along the Lauch River. The area’s unique architecture reflects the specific needs of the fishermen who once lived and worked here.
Living History. Today, the district has transformed into one of Colmar’s most photogenic spots, with restaurants and shops occupying the historic buildings. The area retains its medieval character while offering modern amenities, making it a perfect place to experience both old and new Colmar.
10. 🎪 Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)
Nostalgic Journey. Located in a former cinema building, the Toy Museum houses an extensive collection of toys and games from the 19th century to the present day. The museum’s interactive displays and playful atmosphere make it a perfect destination for families visiting Colmar.
Interactive Experience. Visitors can explore various themed sections featuring model trains, dolls, and mechanical toys, while special exhibitions highlight different aspects of toy-making history. The museum offers hands-on activities and play areas, making it one of the most family-friendly attractions in Colmar.
Things to Do in Colmar with Kids
1. 🦅 Go Stork Spotting
Natural Wonder. Perched atop the colorful half-timbered houses and medieval church spires in Colmar’s old town, white storks create an enchanting spectacle that feels straight out of a fairy tale. These magnificent birds, particularly visible around the Grand Rue and near Martin’s Church, have become symbolic of Alsace’s rich cultural heritage, building their massive nests on specially constructed platforms above the narrow streets and cobblestoned alleys. The best time to spot these majestic creatures is during spring and summer when they return from migration, making their distinctive bill-clattering sounds that echo through the heart of town.
2. 🚂 Ride Le Petit Train
Historic Journey. Winding through the cobblestoned streets and past colorful half-timbered houses, Le Petit Train offers a delightful 35-minute tour that brings Colmar’s rich history to life. The train departs from the center of Colmar near Rue des Marchands, taking you past iconic landmarks like the Maison des Têtes and along the picturesque Lauch River, while entertaining audio commentary shares fascinating stories about this fairytale town’s German and French heritage.
3. ⛵ Boat Tour on the Lauch River
Water Adventure. Gliding through La Petite Venise on a traditional flat-bottomed boat, families can experience Colmar’s fairytale charm from a unique perspective as they pass under ancient bridges and alongside colorful half-timbered houses adorned with flower pots. The gentle 30-minute journey along the Lauch River flows past the famous Fisherman’s Quay and through narrow waterways, while friendly guides share fascinating stories about the city’s history in both French and English.
Free Things to Do in Colmar
1. 🏰 Wander through Old Town
Medieval Discovery. The heart of Colmar reveals itself through a mesmerizing 6 KM self-guided walking tour, where golden triangles embedded in cobblestoned streets lead you past the most stunning examples of German-influenced architecture, including the famous colorful half-timbered houses along Rue des Marchands and Grand Rue. Following this route, you’ll discover hidden gems like the Quartier des Tanneurs with its distinctive wooden galleries and the enchanting La Petite Venise where narrow streets open onto picturesque canal views. The journey takes you through centuries of history, from the medieval Maison des Têtes to the Renaissance-era Maison Pfister, all while offering perfect photo opportunities of flower-adorned balconies and intricate architectural details.
2. 🌳 Explore Parc du Champ de Mars
Natural Escape. Colmar’s green spaces offer peaceful retreats from the bustling old town, with the Parc du Champ de Mars serving as the city’s verdant heart where century-old trees provide shade for picnicking families and casual strollers. The park’s winding paths lead visitors past seasonal flower displays and quiet corners perfect for reading or people-watching, while the surrounding area showcases the blend of French and German landscaping traditions. The gardens come alive during different seasons, from spring blooms to autumn foliage, making them a year-round destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
3. 🎪 Attend free events in Market Hall
Cultural Celebration. Throughout the year, Colmar’s historic center transforms into a vibrant stage for free cultural events, from the world-famous Christmas markets in winter to the summer wine fairs celebrating the region’s renowned Alsatian wines. The city’s festival calendar includes everything from traditional music performances in the Market Hall to contemporary art exhibitions at public spaces, while special holiday celebrations bring local traditions to life with parades, concerts, and street performances. The events showcase the unique blend of French and German cultural influences that make Colmar a fascinating destination for festival enthusiasts.
4. 🎵 Attend Free Cultural Performances
Artistic Expression. The Covered Market comes alive every first Friday with free concerts organized by local music associations, while the historic Kiosque de musique hosts regular performances ranging from classical ensembles to jazz quartets. The atmospheric streets of old town become an open-air concert venue during summer evenings, with local musicians performing against the backdrop of illuminated half-timbered houses, while special cultural events like the Colmar Jazz Festival bring international artists to perform in public spaces throughout the city. These free performances offer visitors a chance to experience Colmar’s rich cultural heritage without spending a euro.
Seasonal Activities in Colmar
🎄 Christmas in Colmar
Festive Markets. Six enchanting Christmas markets transform Colmar’s medieval streets into a winter wonderland, with 180 wooden chalets offering traditional Alsatian crafts, local delicacies, and mulled wine spread across the Old Town from Place des Dominicains to La Petite Venise. The city dazzles with 25 kilometers of light garlands illuminating the half-timbered houses, while special events include children’s choirs singing from illuminated boats on the Lauch River every Wednesday and Saturday at 5:00 PM.
Holiday Traditions. The markets feature unique experiences like the indoor artisan market at the historic Koïfhus and a gourmet market with nine local chefs preparing traditional Alsatian specialties. The festivities extend to wine cellars specially decorated for Christmas, where visitors can taste local Alsatian wines while admiring the fairy tale atmosphere of the illuminated old town.
🌞 Summer Festivals and Events
Festival Season. Summer brings the International Music Festival and Colmar Wine Fair, transforming the cobblestoned streets into vibrant celebration spaces with outdoor concerts in the historic center. The warm evenings come alive with local musicians performing against the backdrop of illuminated half-timbered houses, creating an enchanting atmosphere throughout the old town.
Wine Culture. The famous Alsace Wine Region becomes a hub of activity with special tastings and celebrations at local wineries, while traditional Alsatian restaurants serve tarte flambée and regional specialties on their flower-adorned terraces. The summer wine festivals offer perfect opportunities to sample Pinot Gris and other local wines while enjoying the long, warm evenings in La Petite Venise.
🌸 Spring Blooms in Royal Parks
Natural Revival. The Parc du Champ de Mars bursts into color with thousands of spring flowers, creating a peaceful haven in the heart of the city. The narrow streets of Old Town become decorated with blooming flower pots hanging from colorful half-timbered houses, transforming the medieval architecture into a photographer’s paradise.
Spring Activities. Walking tours along the Lauch River offer perfect photo opportunities of the medieval architecture framed by spring blossoms, while the Market Hall fills with seasonal produce and flowers. The mild weather makes it ideal for exploring the Quartier des Tanneurs and enjoying outdoor cafes along the Fisherman’s Quay.
🍁 Autumn in Colmar
Harvest Beauty. Fall transforms Colmar into a canvas of golden colors, especially along the Fisherman’s Quay and Tanner’s District, where ancient wooden galleries reflect in the calm waters of La Petite Venise. The season brings perfect weather for exploring the cobblestoned streets and admiring the architecture without the summer crowds.
Wine Heritage. The autumn grape harvest along the Alsace Wine Route offers unique experiences at local wineries, with special tastings of new vintages and traditional harvest festivals. Local restaurant and wine shop embrace the season with hearty Alsatian dishes like Munster cheese and wild game, while the crisp air and golden light create perfect conditions for photography in the old town.
Day Trips from Colmar
1. 🏰 Visit Eguisheim
Medieval Marvel. Built in concentric circles around a 13th-century octagonal castle, Eguisheim captivates visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval streets and colorful half-timbered houses adorned with flower pots. The village offers an authentic glimpse into Alsatian life with its local cafés and wine cellars, where independent vignerons welcome visitors for tastings of local Pinot Gris and Riesling varieties. Saint-Léon Square, the heart of the town, provides a perfect spot to relax at outdoor cafés.
2. 🏘️ Explore Riquewihr
Time Capsule. Known as “The Gem of the Alsace Vineyards,” Riquewihr stands as one of the most enchanting villages in the region, maintaining its 16th-century character with remarkably preserved fortified walls and medieval architecture. The town’s reputation as one of the biggest producers of Riesling wine makes it an essential stop on the Alsace Wine Route, offering numerous opportunities for wine tasting and cellar visits.
3. 🏔️ Visit Kaysersberg
Alpine Charm. Nestled at the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, Kaysersberg combines medieval heritage with stunning natural scenery, featuring remarkable attractions including the historic Château de Kaysersberg and the unique Fortified Bridge. The village’s well-preserved historic center showcases typical Alsatian architecture with its colorful half-timbered houses and flowering balconies, while local artisan shops, traditional restaurants.
FAQ About Visiting and Explore Colmar ❓
What are the top things to do in Colmar for families?
Visiting Colmar offers many family-friendly attractions, like the Toy Museum, where kids can explore over 2,000 toys and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Where can I find wine tastings and shops in Colmar along the Alsace Wine Route?
Colmar is home to numerous wine shops and hosts wine fairs, making it easy to sample local wines like Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris while exploring the villages on the Alsace Wine Route.
How can I enjoy traditional Alsatian food while exploring the colorful streets of Colmar?
You can savor traditional Alsatian food such as tarte flambée and Munster cheese at local restaurants along Rue des Marchands and in the charming Quartier des Tanneurs.
