Things To Do
in Colmar
Colmar is a picturesque town located in the Alsace region of France, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and colorful half-timbered houses. The town is surrounded by vineyards and offers a charming setting with winding cobblestone streets and canal-lined neighborhoods. Colmar is famous for its annual Christmas markets, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the festive atmosphere and traditional Alsatian crafts and foods.
With a rich history and plenty of cultural attractions, Colmar is a delightful destination for those seeking a taste of old-world France.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a breakfast of fresh pastries at a local boulangerie. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Colmar's Old Town.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum to admire its impressive collection of artworks. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming terrace cafe.
Watch the sunset over the canals while enjoying a glass of Alsatian wine. End your day with dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Spend your morning discovering the Museum of Fine Arts, which showcases stunning paintings and sculptures. Take in the atmosphere of the museum before heading out.
Head to the picturesque Little Venice area for lunch and a walk along the canals. Don't forget to snap some photos of the colorful half-timbered houses.
Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby brasserie, savoring local dishes. Stroll through the illuminated streets to experience Colmar's evening charm.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful picturesque scenery with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Rich cultural heritage, including museums, art galleries, and traditional Alsatian cuisine.
- Attractive canals and a charming atmosphere, often referred to as the 'Little Venice' of France.
- Variety of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local culture and wine.
- Proximity to the Vosges Mountains for outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
- Can be crowded with tourists, especially during peak seasons.
- Cost of living may be higher compared to other French towns.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation options can be limited, making a car more convenient.
- Winter can be cold and damp, which might not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Colmar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the charming cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and colorful half-timbered houses in the historic Old Town of Colmar.
Take a tour of the nearby vineyards and indulge in a wine tasting experience to savor the renowned wines of the Alsace region.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Alsace Wine Route, passing through vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque villages.
Discover Colmar from a different perspective by taking a relaxing boat tour along the tranquil canals, offering unique views of the city's architecture and bridges.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the nearby Vosges mountains, with a variety of trails catering to different skill levels and offering stunning natural landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Colmar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Colmar
Visit one of these nice places.
Quaint area with charming half-timbered houses and scenic canals, perfect for photography.
Narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful Alsatian buildings, providing picturesque photo opportunities.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of Colmar from its tower, great for capturing the city's beauty.
A peaceful park with lovely gardens, ideal for taking photos of the natural beauty and architecture of Colmar.
Food in Colmar
Colmar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Alsatian dish featuring sauerkraut with various cuts of pork, sausages, and potatoes. It's a must-try at Wistub Brenner.
Must-Try!
Also known as Flammekueche, this thin-crust pizza-like tart topped with fromage blanc or crĂšme fraĂźche, onions, and lardons can be savored at La Krutenau.
A slow-cooked casserole of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, seasoned with Alsatian white wine, available at Le Fer Rouge.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Colmar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant selection of local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and even prepared dishes. Don't miss the quiche at Boulangerie PĂątisserie Gilg!
Wander through the charming streets of Old Town to discover quaint stalls offering delectable treats like pretzels, crepes, and roasted chestnuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Colmar, it is polite to use formal greetings, such as 'bonjour' (hello) and 'au revoir' (goodbye), when interacting with locals. Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time.
French culture values personal space, so it is important to maintain a reasonable distance when interacting with others. Physical contact, such as hugs or kisses on the cheek, should only occur if initiated by the local person.
When dining in Colmar, it is customary to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands visible on the table. It is also polite to try a bit of everything on your plate as a sign of respect for the chef and the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Colmar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Colmar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Colmar, France, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the total or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Colmar, especially in restaurants, hotels, and tourist areas. However, it is a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for making small purchases at local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Colmar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Colmar as the weather starts to warm up and the city's beautiful flowers and gardens begin to bloom. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect larger crowds, but you'll also be able to enjoy various events and festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Colmar, with warm weather and longer days. It's a great time to explore the outdoor markets, cafes, and vineyards in the surrounding areas. However, be prepared for the highest number of tourists and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn in Colmar brings beautiful fall foliage and milder temperatures, making it a pleasant time to visit. The wine harvest season also takes place during this time, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Winter in Colmar can be cold, but the city's Christmas market and festive decorations make it a magical time to visit. It's less crowded compared to other seasons, allowing for a more intimate experience of the city's charm.
Colmar at Night
Hiking in Colmar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The Vosges Mountains offer numerous trails with varying difficulty levels, showcasing beautiful landscapes, lakes, and forests. Popular starting points include the Grand Ballon and the Route des CrĂȘtes.
This scenic trail near Colmar provides stunning panoramic views of the Alsace region. Itâs a moderate hike that allows hikers to experience the beauty of vineyards and quaint villages.
Located about 30 kilometers from Colmar, this trail leads to the historic Mont Sainte-Odile monastery. The hike offers spectacular views over the Alsace plains and dense forest paths.
A charming hike that follows the Steinbach stream through the woods, this trail is perfect for families and nature lovers seeking peace and tranquility.
This moderate hike takes you through picturesque scenery and is a great choice for enjoying both flora and fauna of the Vosges region. It is a popular spot for both hiking and cycling.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Colmar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Colmar by plane.
Located approximately 65 kilometers from Colmar, this is the closest major international airport serving the tri-national area of France, Germany, and Switzerland.
Situated about 80 kilometers from Colmar, this airport primarily serves flights to domestic and European destinations.
Located around 350 kilometers from Colmar, this major international airport in Germany offers a wide range of global connections.
Approximately 200 kilometers away, this is one of Switzerland's busiest airports, providing international flights across six continents.
Situated about 400 kilometers from Colmar, this is one of the largest international airports in Europe, with extensive connections worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population comprising individuals who hold French citizenship and represent the cultural heritage of France.
A significant portion of the population with German citizenship, reflecting the historical ties between Colmar and Germany.
People originating from North African countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Individuals from Eastern European countries, adding to the multicultural fabric of Colmar.
Residents from Sub-Saharan Africa, representing a smaller yet vibrant segment of the community.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the demographic mix in Colmar.
This category encompasses immigrants from other regions, including Latin America and the Middle East, creating a diverse community.
The Soul of Colmar
Discover the essence of Colmar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Colmar, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Colmar, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Cycling is a favored activity in Colmar, both as a sport and as a means of transportation, with scenic routes available.
Handball is widely played in Colmar, with local teams competing at various levels.
Tennis is a popular sport in Colmar, with several clubs offering facilities and training for enthusiasts.
Running is a favored recreational activity in Colmar, with local races and scenic trails attracting runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colmar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Colmar offer vegetarian options such as tarte flambée with vegetarian toppings or delicious cheese and onion quiche.
While vegan options may be limited, some restaurants are happy to accommodate with dishes like fresh salads, vegetable tarts, and pasta.
Although not widely available, certain restaurants can cater to gluten-free requirements with advance notice, offering dishes like grilled fish or meat with steamed vegetables.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Colmar with these cultural adventures.
