Google Maps Colmar France

Introduction

Colmar is a charming town located in the northeast of France. It is known for its half-timbered houses, colorful canals, and beautiful landscape. The town is also home to several world-renowned museums, historical landmarks, and a thriving food scene. Whether you are a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Colmar has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips to make the most of your visit to Colmar, France.

Top Attractions

1. Unterlinden Museum

One of the most popular attractions in Colmar, the Unterlinden Museum, is known for its extensive collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The museum is housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent, which adds to its historical charm. The highlight of the museum is the Isenheim altarpiece, a masterpiece of German Renaissance art.

2. Little Venice

Little Venice is a picturesque neighborhood in Colmar that has been named after the canals that run through it. The neighborhood is characterized by its half-timbered houses and colorful buildings. Take a stroll along the canals, enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes, and soak in the atmosphere of this charming neighborhood.

Hidden Gems

1. Tanners district

The Tanners district is a hidden gem in Colmar that is often overlooked by tourists. The district is home to several tanneries that date back to the 17th century. The buildings in the district are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the town’s industrial past. Take a walk through the narrow streets and see the tanners’ houses, workshops, and courtyards.

2. Bartholdi Museum

The Bartholdi Museum is dedicated to the life and works of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the designer of the Statue of Liberty. The museum is housed in Bartholdi’s former home and showcases his sculptures, drawings, and personal belongings. The museum is a must-visit for art lovers and history buffs.

Food Scene

Colmar is known for its traditional Alsatian cuisine, which is a blend of French and German influences. The town is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as more budget-friendly options.

1. La Table du Brocanteur

La Table du Brocanteur is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Colmar. The restaurant serves traditional Alsatian dishes, such as choucroute and baeckeoffe, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

2. Aux Armes de Colmar

Aux Armes de Colmar is a popular restaurant that serves classic French dishes, such as escargots and foie gras. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and a large outdoor terrace. Be sure to try the house specialty, the chateaubriand.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Colmar can be an expensive town to visit, but there are several ways to save money without compromising on the experience.

1. Free Walking Tour

Take a free walking tour of Colmar to get a sense of the town’s history and culture. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the town’s most important landmarks and hidden gems.

2. Picnic in the Park

Colmar has several beautiful parks and gardens, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic. Buy some local cheese, bread, and wine from a market and head to one of the parks for a budget-friendly lunch.

Outdoor Adventures

Colmar and its surrounding areas offer several outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

1. Hiking in the Vosges Mountains

The Vosges Mountains offer several hiking trails that vary in difficulty and length. The trails offer breathtaking views of the landscape and are a great way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

2. Cycling along the Rhine River

The Rhine River is a popular cycling route that stretches from Colmar to Basel. The route is well-marked and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Family-Friendly Activities

Colmar is a great destination for families, with several activities that will keep both kids and adults entertained.

1. The Toy Museum

The Toy Museum is a must-visit for families with young children. The museum has a collection of over 1,000 toys from the 19th and 20th centuries, including dolls, trains, and board games.

2. The Butterfly House

The Butterfly House is a unique attraction in Colmar that houses hundreds of butterflies from around the world. The butterflies fly freely in a tropical greenhouse, creating a magical and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Colmar has several off-the-beaten-path experiences that are worth exploring for adventurous travelers.

1. The Ecomuseum of Alsace

The Ecomuseum of Alsace is an open-air museum that showcases the traditional Alsatian way of life. The museum has over 70 buildings, including farms, houses, and workshops, that have been restored to their original state.

2. The Humanist Library

The Humanist Library is a hidden gem in Colmar that is often overlooked by tourists. The library has a collection of over 1,000 manuscripts, including works by Erasmus and Gutenberg. The library also has a beautiful garden that is worth exploring.

Natural Wonders

Colmar and its surrounding areas are home to several natural wonders that are worth visiting for nature lovers.

1. Lac Blanc

Lac Blanc is a beautiful lake located in the Vosges Mountains. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and offers stunning views of the mountains. There are several hiking trails around the lake that offer breathtaking views of the landscape.

2. The Grand Ballon

The Grand Ballon is the highest peak in the Vosges Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The peak can be reached by a scenic drive or a challenging hike.

Vibrant Nightlife

Colmar may be a small town, but it has a vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes.

1. Le Grillen

Le Grillen is a popular music venue that hosts live music and DJ nights. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and a large outdoor terrace.

2. Bar le Régent

Bar le Régent is a popular bar that serves a wide range of cocktails and drinks. The bar has a lively atmosphere and is a great place to meet locals and tourists alike.

Local Markets

Colmar has several local markets that offer a variety of products, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

1. Colmar Market

The Colmar Market is held every Wednesday and Saturday and offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, cheese, and wine. The market is a great place to sample local products and meet local vendors.

2. Christmas Market

The Colmar Christmas Market is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe. The market is held from late November to early January and offers a wide range of products, including handmade crafts, local food, and mulled wine.

Beaches and Mountains

Colmar is located near both the beach and the mountains, making it an ideal destination for those who want to experience both.

1. Colmar Beach

Colmar Beach is a man-made beach located on the Rhine River. The beach offers several activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

2. Skiing in the Vosges Mountains

The Vosges Mountains offer several ski resorts that cater to all levels of skiers. The resorts offer stunning views of the landscape and are a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

Cultural Immersion

Colmar is a town that is rich in culture and history, offering several opportunities for cultural immersion.

1. Alsatian Wine Route

The Alsatian Wine Route is a scenic route that takes visitors through the region’s vineyards and wineries. The route offers a chance to taste some of the best wines in the region and learn about the wine-making process.

2. Colmar International Festival

The Colmar International Festival is a classical music festival that takes place every summer. The festival attracts world-renowned musicians and offers a chance to experience classical music in