Colmar, Alsace
The sheer abundance of cobbled streets, magnificently preserved churches, and vibrant, colourful half-timbered houses collectively elevates Colmar to the status of a truly must-see town in Alsace. Its Old Town is a treasure trove, offering everything imaginable for an unforgettable day trip – from charming cafés where you can savor local delights and excellent restaurants serving delectable cuisine, to the enchanting, picturesque canals of Little Venice that wind through the heart of the district. You could easily spend hours wandering its intricate lanes, feeling as though there's always more beauty and history waiting to be discovered around every corner, making it an ideal destination for an immersive and memorable exploration.
Parking in Colmar
Finding convenient parking in the charming city of Colmar is generally an easy and straightforward process, thanks to several well-placed options. One of the largest and most highly recommended choices for visitors is the Place Scheurer Kestner parking lot (1; GPS: 48.081927, 7.357209), strategically situated just north of the Old Town. Its generous size typically ensures availability, making it a reliable starting point for your exploration.
Other excellent and readily available choices for parking include the Parking de la Manufacture (2; GPS: 48.083450, 7.353491), located to the northwest of the city center, offering good access for those arriving from that direction. Additionally, the underground Parking Rapp (3; GPS: 48.076899, 7.352646), found near the bustling Place Rapp, provides a very convenient option due to its close proximity to the historic core of Colmar. Your ultimate choice of parking may thoughtfully depend on your direction of arrival and your preferred starting point for delving into the city's rich history and picturesque streets. All these options are designed to facilitate an effortless beginning to your memorable visit to Colmar.
Église des Dominicains
Once you've secured your parking, your journey into Colmar's historical heart can begin. If you opted to park at either Place Scheurer Kestner or Parking de la Manufacture, a pleasant walk along Rue du Rempart and Quai de la Sinn will lead you directly to the awe-inspiring 14th-century Dominican Church, known as Église des Dominicains (A; GPS: 48.078305, 7.357121). This Gothic masterpiece is a testament to Colmar's rich medieval past, captivating visitors with its grandeur and historical significance. Its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere provide a perfect introduction to the city's artistic and spiritual heritage.
Alternatively, if your choice was the convenient underground Parking Rapp, you can easily reach the Dominican Church by taking either Rue des Boulangers or Rue des Têtes, both offering charming routes through the city. By the way, the bustling Place Rapp itself, where the underground parking is located, is also well worth a visit, offering its own unique character and energy. Should you find yourself feeling hungry after your initial explorations, you'll be pleased to discover several inviting restaurants in the vicinity, all serving delectable local Alsatian cuisine. These eateries provide a wonderful opportunity to savor the regional flavors, from hearty traditional dishes to delicate local specialties, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience during your visit to Colmar.
Place de la Cathédrale
The next captivating stop on your journey through Colmar is the magnificent Place de la Cathédrale (B; GPS: 48.077569, 7.358168), conveniently located just 100 meters from the impressive Dominican Church. This grand square is dominated by the awe-inspiring Église Saint-Martin, a stunning collegiate church constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries. Its remarkable architectural details, particularly its vibrant, colourful tiled roof and its warm, ochre-toned walls, are especially eye-catching and create a truly picturesque scene against the backdrop of the Alsatian sky. The square itself is a bustling hub, often filled with market stalls or street performers, adding to the lively atmosphere that surrounds this architectural gem.
Maison Pfister
Colmar’s Old Town is an absolute treasure trove of remarkable architecture, where every turn reveals a new historical gem. One of the undisputed highlights among these is the iconic Maison Pfister, standing proudly as one of the oldest and most exquisitely ornate houses in the entire city, having been originally constructed in the year 1537. Conveniently located just behind the grand Place de la Cathédrale, on the charming Rue des Marchands, this building is celebrated for its incredibly rich and intricate decorative style, which captivates all who behold it. Legend has it that this magnificent residence was commissioned by a wealthy silver merchant, a testament to the prosperity and artistic ambition of Colmar’s past. Its detailed frescoes and impressive wooden gallery make it an essential stop for anyone wishing to delve into the city's rich architectural heritage.
Koïfhus
As you make your way towards the enchanting district of Little Venice, it is absolutely essential to pass by the historic Ancienne Douane, more commonly known as Koïfhus. This remarkable late-15th-century structure holds the distinction of being the oldest secular building in all of Colmar, making it a cornerstone of the city's historical fabric. In centuries past, Koïfhus played a pivotal and multifaceted role in the town's thriving economy, serving simultaneously as a crucial customs warehouse where goods were taxed, and as the town hall, demonstrating its central importance to civic life. Today, this beautifully preserved building continues to be a vibrant part of Colmar's cultural scene, frequently hosting various concerts and cultural events, and it also houses a quality restaurant, offering visitors a chance to dine in a truly historical setting. Its rich history and continued relevance make it an undeniable must-see attraction for anyone exploring Colmar.
La Petite Venise
Continue your delightful exploration by heading towards the gentle flow of the Lauch River (C; GPS: 48.074619, 7.360314) and immerse yourself in the enchanting area famously known as Little Venice (La Petite Venise). You can easily access this picturesque district by meandering along Rue de l'Église, Grand Rue, and Rue des Tanneurs, each offering charming glimpses of Colmar's architectural beauty. The defining feature of this area is undoubtedly the collection of exquisitely preserved, colorful houses that line both sides of the tranquil river, bestowing upon the entire district a distinct and undeniable Venetian charm. To fully appreciate this unique scenery, you have the option to embark on a leisurely 30-minute boat tour, typically costing around €6, which provides a captivating perspective from the water. Alternatively, you can simply stroll along the verdant banks, taking in the idyllic views at your own pace. The vibrant hues of the houses, reflected in the calm waters of the Lauch, are truly delightful to behold, creating a postcard-perfect setting that is both serene and utterly captivating.
After experiencing the undeniable charm of Little Venice, be sure not to miss the nearby Fontaine Roesselmann, gracefully situated at Place des Six-Montagnes-Noires. This impressive statue, a bronze masterpiece created by the renowned sculptor Auguste Bartholdi in 1888 (who also sculpted the Statue of Liberty!), pays homage to Jean Roesselmann. Roesselmann is revered in local history as the first local hero of Colmar, a figure who bravely defended the city's liberties in the 13th century. The intricate details and powerful presence of the statue make it a significant historical and artistic landmark, offering a poignant reminder of Colmar's enduring spirit and its champions.
Don't forget to watch our video about Colmar, for an even more immersive visual experience of this beautiful Alsatian town!
Gastronomy in Colmar: A Taste of Alsace
Colmar's gastronomy is a vibrant celebration of Alsatian culinary traditions, deeply influenced by both French and German flavors, resulting in a unique and hearty cuisine. The town's charming setting, with its colorful half-timbered houses and proximity to vineyards, perfectly complements a dining experience that emphasizes regional produce, robust flavors, and convivial atmospheres. Visitors to Colmar can expect dishes that are rich, satisfying, and often accompanied by excellent local wines. The Alsatian identity shines through in every meal, making it an essential part of the cultural experience.
What to Try?
- Choucroute Garnie: This iconic Alsatian dish features sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) cooked with white wine and often juniper berries, served generously with a variety of salted and smoked meats (such as sausages, bacon, and pork loin), and potatoes. It's a true comfort food and a must-try.
- Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche): A thin, crispy flatbread traditionally topped with crème fraîche or fromage blanc, thinly sliced onions, and lardons (smoked bacon). It's often baked in a wood-fired oven and can be found in various sweet or savory variations.
- Baeckeoffe: A hearty casserole slow-cooked in a ceramic terrine. It typically contains marinated slices of beef, pork, lamb, potatoes, and vegetables, all simmered in white Alsatian wine. It's a warming and flavorful dish, perfect for sharing.
- Coq au Riesling: A regional twist on the classic coq au vin, where chicken is braised in Riesling wine, often with mushrooms and cream. This dish beautifully showcases the local white wine.
- Munster Cheese: A pungent, soft cow's milk cheese from the Vosges mountains. It's often served simply with potatoes, cumin, or on a slice of bread. Its strong aroma belies a surprisingly creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Gingerbread (Pain d'épices): A sweet, spiced bread, often found in various shapes and sizes. It’s a traditional Alsatian treat, especially popular during festive seasons, and makes for a delicious souvenir.
- Alsatian Wines: Colmar is on the Alsace Wine Route. Be sure to sample the region's aromatic white wines, particularly Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat, which are distinct from other French wines due to their single-grape varietal focus.
Where to Eat?
Colmar boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants, ranging from traditional winstubs (cozy Alsatian taverns) to more upscale dining establishments, especially concentrated within the Old Town.
- Winstub La Petite Venise: (4 Rue de la Poissonnerie) Situated directly in the picturesque Little Venice district, this winstub offers a charming atmosphere and serves classic Alsatian dishes, allowing you to dine with a beautiful canal view.
- Restaurant Schwendi Stuebel: (2 Rue des Augustins) A popular choice known for its authentic Alsatian cuisine and warm, traditional decor. It's a great spot to try local specialties like Choucroute or Baeckeoffe in a cozy setting.
- Le Comptoir de la Tour: (17 Rue des Tanneurs) Offering a more modern take on Alsatian and French cuisine, this restaurant provides a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and excellent wine pairings.
- Brasserie des Tanneurs: (12 Place du 2 Février) Located near the Koïfhus, this brasserie is a reliable option for classic French and Alsatian dishes in a lively atmosphere, suitable for both lunch and dinner.
- Marché Couvert (Covered Market): (Rue des Écoles) For a more casual culinary experience, visit Colmar's covered market. Here you can find various stalls selling local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and even prepared foods perfect for a quick bite or a picnic.
The gastronomic journey through Colmar is as rich and colorful as its streets, offering a delightful blend of hearty flavors and aromatic wines that truly capture the essence of Alsace.
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