Looking for the perfect destination for your next vacation? Why not explore the colorful, scenic city of Colmar in Alsace, France?
In this travel guide, you’ll find all the best places to stay, eat, and play in this charming medieval town. From its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses to its art galleries and outdoor cafes, Colmar is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!
Nestled in a sunny corner of the Alsace region, Colmar is a magical city full of history, culture, and beauty. With its winding streets and colorful facades, it’s easy to find yourself lost in time here. The region is known for its wines and extraordinary cuisine, with famous dishes such as the Kougelhopf cake, Flammekueche pizza pie, and baeckeoffe stew. From delightful small cafés to upscale restaurants featuring regional specialties to unique boutiques full of local handcrafted goods, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye!
But Colmar isn’t all about food and shopping – it’s also an ideal place for outdoor pursuits. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the canals or try one of the many activities such as cycling or canoeing on the Rhine River, it’s easy to find something for everyone.
Make sure not to miss out on some of Colmar’s most impressive monuments such as Saint-Martin Church and Unterlinden Museum. Visit during summertime for its festivals and flower shows – this tiny town truly comes alive during those months! When you’re looking for a romantic get away or a fun holiday for the whole family, Colmar should definitely be on your list. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to explore this enchanting city – get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Why Should You Visit Colmar?
Colmar is a charming town in the Alsace region of France that is well worth a visit. The town has an attractive old city center with half-timbered houses, quaint streets, and pretty fountains. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy.
But what really makes Colmar special is its position in the heart of the French wine country. The town is surrounded by vineyards producing some of the finest wines in the world. There are many ways to enjoy the local wines, including wine tastings and tours of the vineyards.
So if you love wine and want to explore a beautiful part of France, then add Colmar to your travel plans!
How to Get There
To get to Colmar, you can fly into the Colmar-Houssen Airport (CMR) or take the train from Paris, Strasbourg, or other nearby cities. If you’re driving, Colmar is about a 3-hour drive from Paris and a 2-hour drive from Strasbourg.
Once you’re in Colmar, getting around is easy. The city is small enough to walk around, and there’s also a public bus system. If you’re planning on doing some day trips outside of Colmar, renting a car may be the best option.
Things to See and Do
Colmar is known for its well-preserved historical center, which is a must-see. Start at the old walled city of Little Venice before strolling down Rue des Tanneurs, which has colorful houses and shops. Other top attractions include the Unterlinden Museum, St Martin’s Church, and Koïfhus.
The area around Colmar also has plenty to offer. Visit one of the many nearby wineries in nearby villages like Katzenthal or Ribeauvillé for some wine tasting. Or take a drive around Alsace’s beautiful wine route for stunning views and quaint towns. There are also some excellent outdoor activities like hiking and cycling here too.
Eating and Drinking
There are plenty of places to eat in Colmar. For traditional Alsatian cuisine, check out Aux Armes de Colmar or La Petite Venise. Or if you’re looking for something a bit more modern and international, head to Restaurant Les Tonneliers or Chez Hansi. Local specialties include choucroute (sauerkraut), flammenküeche (tarte flambée), and bredele biscuits.
When it comes to drinks, the region is known for its Alsatian wines like Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir. Many of the bars around town serve up craft beers and locally produced spirits too. Max’a Bar is one of the top spots in town for cocktails and live music, while nearby wineries like Helfer & Fils offer excellent wine tastings.
Overall, Colmar is a great destination for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and history buffs. There’s so much to explore here, with quaint cobbled streets and plenty of traditional restaurants and wineries to discover. With its beautiful Alsatian architecture and colorful old town center, one could easily spend days exploring this charming area.
What to See and Do When You Visit
When you visit Colmar, there are a few things you won’t want to miss. For starters, be sure to wander the Old Town (Vieille Ville), which is full of half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets. If you’re a fan of art or history, pay a visit to the Unterlinden Museum, which houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance paintings. If you’re feeling active, take a stroll or bike ride along the scenic Ill River FrontPATH. And no trip to Colmar would be complete without stopping by one of the local wineries for a tasting.
From markets to music festivals and public gardens, Colmar has something for everyone. And of course, no matter when you visit, be sure to grab a bite at one of the incredible local restaurants. Bon appetit!
Getting Around and Where to Eat, Shop, Sleep
Colmar is a charming town in the Alsace region of France. It’s known for its colorful half-timbered houses, quaint cobblestone streets, and beautiful canals. The best way to explore Colmar is on foot. Start at Place de la Republique, the central square surrounded by pretty cafes and shops. From there, wander down the narrow streets lined with more cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Be sure to explore the covered markets, where you can find fresh produce and local specialties like Strasbourg sausage and flammekueche (a type of tart).
There are a few must-see sights in Colmar. The Unterlinden Museum has an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The Stadtmuseum Colmar is housed in a beautiful 13th-century Dominican monastery and covers the history of the city from prehistoric times to the present day. The Pfister House is one of the most iconic buildings in Colmar – it’s a beautifully preserved 16th-century timber-framed house with an ornate facade. Other notable sights include the partly ruined castle of Haut-Koenigsburg, which offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside; Little Venice, a picturesque canal district; and La Petite Venise, a charming area with smaller waterways and pretty bridge crossings.
When it comes to food, Colmar has something for everyone. There are plenty of traditional Alsatian restaurants, serving dishes like the famous choucroute (sauerkraut) and pork chop. If you prefer international flavors, there are also Italian, Chinese and Indian eateries. For a lighter bite, head to one of Colmar’s colorful markets for fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as sweet treats like macarons and pain au chocolat.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Colmar, there are plenty of hotels and B&Bs available. The city center is within easy walking distance of most accommodation options, making it easy to explore local attractions. There are also plenty of shops to check out while you’re in town. From souvenir stores selling local crafts and products to high-end boutiques offering designer clothes and accessories – you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Final Thoughts
After spending a few days in Colmar, it’s easy to see why this city is such a popular tourist destination. With its charming old town, beautiful countryside, and tasty wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to Colmar, be sure to add these sights and activities to your itinerary.
Colmar in Alsace, France is a beautiful and vibrant city where you can truly let your curiosity run wild. With its cobbled streets, festive markets, lush green parks and numerous attractions that will leave you feeling enthralled, Colmar offers something for everyone. So make sure to add it to the list of potential vacation destinations when planning your next trip – after all, exploring a new destination while enjoying enchanting sights and memories is certainly worth it!
