Colmar Travel Guide: Tourist Places & Activities
This picturesque town in Alsace is renowned for its well-preserved old town, timber-framed houses, canals, and the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece. It's also a hub for exploring the local wine region.
- Airport
- Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg at 55 km – Int'l.
- Train Station
- Gare de Colmar
- Est. Visit Days
- 2 days
Overview
Colmar, located in northeastern France, is known for its well-preserved Old Town, fairy-tale like architecture, and as a hub of the Alsace wine region. The city's picturesque streets and historical landmarks such as the Maison des Têtes and the Unterlinden Museum attract many visitors. Colmar also hosts the annual Colmar International Festival, which is a significant event in the cultural calendar. However, the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, which may detract from the experience. Additionally, while Colmar is relatively small and can be explored on foot, this might limit activities for longer stays.
Traffic & Transport
The city's compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, especially in the historic center where the streets are often narrow and pedestrianized. For longer distances, bicycles are a popular choice, and there are several rental shops available. Public buses are also an efficient way to navigate around, connecting major attractions and areas efficiently. For those looking to explore nearby villages and the surrounding Alsace region, renting a car might be the most convenient option. Reliable taxi services include Taxi Central and Taxi de la Gare, which can be easily hailed from stands near major points like the train station or booked via phone. Additionally, the use of ride-sharing apps like Uber offers an alternative for convenient pickups and drop-offs throughout the area.
History
Historically, this city was an important location during the Carolingian Empire, serving as a key market town. It became a Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire in 1226, which significantly boosted its trade and economy. The city was annexed by France in 1673 under King Louis XIV but changed hands between Germany and France in the subsequent centuries, particularly after the Franco-Prussian War in 1871 and following both World Wars. This region is renowned for its well-preserved Old Town and architectural landmarks that reflect a blend of German and French influences. It is also celebrated for its cultural events, including the annual wine fair, which has been held since the Middle Ages, showcasing the city's long-standing tradition in wine production.
Itinerary Sample
Here's a two-day itinerary to explore Colmar, France: – First day:
– Morning: Visit the Old Town, explore its cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved medieval buildings.
– Afternoon: Tour the Unterlinden Museum to see local and international artworks.
– Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local Alsacian restaurant. – Second day:
– Morning: Stroll around the Little Venice area and take a boat tour.
– Afternoon: Visit the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty.
– Evening: Explore local shops and try some regional wine at a wine bar.
Near Excursion
Colmar is ideally located for exploring the diverse attractions of the surrounding region. Here are some top day-trip options:
– Strasbourg at 76 km: European capital with a beautiful cathedral and charming Old Town.
– Freiburg at 51 km: A charming German city known for its medieval architecture and beautiful university atmosphere.
– Mulhouse at 41 km: Home to excellent technical museums like the Cité de l’Automobile.
– Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle at 55 km: A restored medieval castle offering panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains.
– Europa-Park at 58 km: Germany's largest theme park, providing entertainment for all ages with themed areas and rides.
Attraction
Colmar is known for its well-preserved Old Town, its museums, and its seasonal markets.
– Little Venice: A scenic quarter known for its charismatic canals.
– Unterlinden Museum: Houses the Isenheim Altarpiece and local and international artworks.
– House of Heads: A Renaissance building famed for its ornate facade featuring 106 heads.
– Bartholdi Museum: Dedicated to the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, displaying his works.
– Saint Martin Church: A Gothic church known for its impressive architecture.
– Fishmonger's District: Historic area with charming buildings and a lively atmosphere.
Cuisine
The city is celebrated for its Alsatian cuisine, which blends French and German culinary traditions, featuring hearty dishes and local wines. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Choucroute garnie: Sauerkraut served with sausages, other salted meats, and potatoes.
– Tarte flambée: Thin crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
– Baeckeoffe: A slow-cooked casserole with marinated meats, potatoes, and vegetables.
– Munster cheese: A strong, soft cheese often served with cumin and bread.
– Kugelhopf: A traditional yeast-based cake, sometimes filled with raisins and nuts.
– Pain d'épices: Spiced bread made with rye flour, honey, and spices.
Shopping
In the city, visitors can explore charming boutiques and local artisan shops, ideal for finding unique gifts. A popular choice is Alsatian pottery or hand-painted storks, symbols of the region. The local wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer, make excellent gifts. Another great option is the traditional Kugelhopf cake, a delightful treat to bring back home. The covered market offers a variety of local foods and crafts, perfect for authentic souvenirs. Additionally, the area is known for its beautiful textiles, including tablecloths and linens with regional designs.
Arts & Culture
The city is renowned for its well-preserved Old Town and its museums, such as the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the Isenheim Altarpiece by Grünewald. It hosts several annual events, including the Colmar International Festival, which focuses on classical music and jazz. The Christmas markets here are also famous, blending traditional Alsatian festivities with arts and crafts. Additionally, the city celebrates its local artists and artisans through various exhibitions and fairs throughout the year.