Top Must-See Attractions and Activities in Colmar Alsace France

AbouTravel.
Jun 22
4 min read

Updated: Jun 25

Colmar, nestled in the heart of Alsace, France, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and charm that captivates every visitor.

This town is famous for its well-preserved old town, colorful half-timbered houses, and rich heritage.

Whether you are a history buff, a food lover, or someone who enjoys scenic strolls, Colmar has something special to offer.

Here’s a detailed guide to the top attractions and activities you should not miss when visiting this enchanting town.

a picturesque canal surrounded by colourful houses and a boat with people

Explore the Old Town and Its Architecture

Colmar’s old town is a living museum of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. The colorful half-timbered houses, many dating back to the 16th century, line the canals and narrow lanes, creating postcard-perfect scenes.

The Main Points of Interest Are:

Little Venice (La Petite Venise)

This is the most picturesque district in Colmar and is famous for its canals, colorful half-timbered houses, small bridges, and beautiful flower displays,

It’s ideal for a leisurely walk or a boat ride, especially in spring and summer when flowers bloom along the waterways.

The best views are around the Quai de la Poissonnerie area.

Maison Pfister

One of Colmar’s most iconic buildings, this 16th-century house features intricate woodwork and frescoes. It reflects the town’s prosperous past and architectural beauty.

Place de l’Ancienne Douane

This is one of the most picturesque and lively squares in Colmar, located in the heart of the Old Town. Surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses and lively cafés, it is dominated by the historic Koïfhus (Old Customs House), the city's oldest public building.

In the center of the square you see Schwendi Fountain that features a statue of Lazare de Schwendi, a 16th-century military commander and diplomat who served the Holy Roman Empire.

The square has long been a center of trade and commerce and today remains one of Colmar's most charming and vibrant gathering places where you can enjoy dining and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Maison des Têtes (House of Heads)

Built in 1609 for the shopkeeper Anton Burger, the house of heads, a fine building dating from the German renaissance, owes its name to the 106 heads or grotesque masks that decorate a rich façade on which stands also a three-storey bay window.

Visit the Unterlinden Museum

The Unterlinden Museum is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts. Housed in a former 13th-century convent, the museum boasts a remarkable collection of medieval and Renaissance art. Its centerpiece is the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of religious art that attracts visitors worldwide.

The museum also features modern and contemporary art, making it a diverse cultural experience. Paintings by Picasso are on display in the museum as well. Audio guides and informative displays help visitors understand the significance of the exhibits.

Discover Colmar’s Religious Heritage

Colmar’s churches reveal much about its spiritual and architectural history. Two notable sites include:

Saint-Martin Collegiate Church: Built between 1235 - 1365, this Gothic church dominates the town center with its impressive façade and stained glass windows. Its interior offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into medieval religious art.
Dominican Church: A jewel of the Gothic architecture, the church dates to the early 14th century. Known for housing the famous "Virgin in the Rose Bush" painting by Martin Schongauer, the church is a treasure trove of religious art and history.

st.martin's church facade — St. Martin's Church

Dominican church facade with the square in front of it — Dominican Church

Enjoy Alsace’s Culinary Delights

No visit to Colmar is complete without tasting the local cuisine. Alsace is known for its hearty dishes and fine wines, and Colmar offers many opportunities to indulge.

Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche): A thin crust topped with cream, onions, and bacon, this dish is a local favorite.
Choucroute Garnie: Sauerkraut served with various sausages and meats, perfect for a filling meal.
Alsace Wines: Colmar is close to the Alsace wine route, famous for white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Many local restaurants and wine bars offer tastings.

Stroll Through the Covered Market

The Covered Market (Marché Couvert) is a vibrant place to experience local life. Open daily except Mondays, it offers fresh produce, cheeses, meats, fruits and vegetables. It’s an excellent spot to pick up picnic supplies or sample local flavors and specialties.

the facade and entrance of the Covered market

Take a Day Trip to the Alsace Wine Route

Colmar serves as a gateway to the Alsace Wine Route, a scenic drive through vineyards and charming, fairy-tale villages. Towns like Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg are within easy reach and offer beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and wine tasting experiences.

Riquewihr: Known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, it features medieval streets and fortified walls.
Eguisheim: Famous for its circular layout and colorful houses.
Kaysersberg: Birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, with a picturesque old town, river and castle ruins from where you can enjoy beautiful panorama over the village.
Ribeauvillé: Walk through the long historic street in the center and marvel at colorful houses, wine shops, cafés, and flower displays

Getting around Alsace is easy thanks to the Kutzig bus, a convenient tourist hop-on hop-off service connecting many of the region's most famous villages.

It is a practical and affordable way to explore the area without needing a car. You can visit 3-4 villages in one day.

Experience Colmar’s Festivals and Events

Colmar hosts several events throughout the year that showcase its culture and traditions.

Christmas Market: One of the most famous in France, the market transforms the town into a festive wonderland with lights, crafts, and seasonal treats.
Folk Music Festival: Celebrates traditional music from Alsace and beyond.
Wine Festival: Held in summer, it offers tastings, music, and local food.

Practical Tips for Visiting Colmar

Getting Around: Colmar is best explored on foot. The town is compact, and walking allows you to appreciate its details.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. The Christmas season is magical but busy.
Accommodation: Options range from charming guesthouses in the old town to modern hotels nearby.
Language: French is the official language, but many locals speak German and English, especially in tourist areas.