The best tips for Alsace and Vosges |  Plan your Alsace and Vosges trip  |  DE 

Colmar

--sinava-- from Berlin, View of Église Saint-Martin (43833049001), CC BY 2.0
Photo: --sinava-- from Berlin, View of Église Saint-Martin (43833049001), CC BY 2.0
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Colmar? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Colmar.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Alsace and Vosges, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Alsace and Vosges here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Colmar offers a rich tapestry of culture and history, reflecting its unique position at the crossroads of European influences. Visitors can expect to find a well-preserved old town that showcases a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with colorful half-timbered houses lining cobblestone streets. The town's cultural landscape is deeply intertwined with its history, providing a vivid glimpse into the past through its art, architecture, and local traditions.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Unterlinden Museum: ⭐ ⭐ A museum in Colmar known for its collection of Rhineland art and the Isenheim Altarpiece. Distance in km: 0.08
2. House of Heads (Maison des Têtes): Admire the ornately decorated Renaissance building adorned with numerous sculpted heads. Distance in km: 0.22
3. Bartholdi Museum: Learn about the life and work of the famous sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, creator of the Statue of Liberty. Distance in km: 0.46
4. Pfister House: Marvel at one of the most famous half-timbered houses in Colmar, known for its intricate carvings and unique architecture. Distance in km: 0.48
5. Parc du Champ de Mars: Relax in this beautiful park featuring lush greenery, flower beds, and a tranquil atmosphere. Distance in km: 0.54
6. Colmar's Old Town: ⭐ ⭐ Famous for its well-preserved old town, Colmar is a quintessential Alsace town with colorful buildings and canals. Distance in km: 0.58
7. Little Venice (La Petite Venise): Take a scenic boat ride or stroll along the canals lined with colorful houses and charming cafes. Distance in km: 0.73
8. The Christmas Markets of Alsace: Among the oldest and most famous in Europe, these markets in various Alsatian towns offer festive food, drink, and crafts. Distance in km: 5.52
9. The Alsace Wine Route: Embark on a scenic drive through picturesque vineyards and charming villages, and sample some of the region's finest wines. Distance in km: 6.43
10. Kayserberg: ⭐ A charming village known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vineyards, and as the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer. Distance in km: 9.37
11. Ribeauvillé: A medieval town famous for its historical center, vineyards, and the annual medieval festival. Distance in km: 13
12. Neuf-Brisach, UNESCO World Heritage: A fortified town designed by Vauban, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique star-shaped layout. Distance in km: 14.79
13. Ballons des Vosges Nature Park: ⭐ A large regional nature park that spans the Vosges Mountains, offering a diverse range of flora, fauna, and outdoor activities. Distance in km: 16.68
14. Munster: Known for its cheese, Munster is a small town surrounded by mountains, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Distance in km: 16.75
15. Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg: ⭐ ⭐ An imposing hilltop castle that offers a glimpse into medieval life and stunning views over the Alsace region. Distance in km: 18.85
16. Lac Blanc: A glacial lake in the Vosges Mountains, popular for hiking, mountain biking, and in winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Distance in km: 20.3
17. The Humanist Library of Sélestat: One of the oldest public libraries in France, housing an impressive collection of medieval manuscripts and early printed books. Distance in km: 21.39
18. Hohneck: ⭐ The third highest summit in the Vosges Mountains, known for its panoramic views and hiking trails. Distance in km: 25.62
19. Ecomusée d'Alsace: ⭐ ⭐ An open-air museum that recreates an Alsatian village from the early 20th century, showcasing traditional houses, crafts, and daily life. Distance in km: 25.84
20. Route des Crêtes: ⭐ A scenic road in the Vosges Mountains offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and access to ski resorts. Distance in km: 27.39
21. Grand Ballon: The highest peak in the Vosges Mountains, offering hiking trails, skiing in winter, and panoramic views. Distance in km: 27.63
22. Alsace Wine Route: ⭐ ⭐ A scenic route passing through charming wine villages and vineyards, offering tastings and cellar tours. Distance in km: 35.3
23. Gérardmer Lake: ⭐ A popular destination in the Vosges for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and boating. Distance in km: 37.16
24. Mont Sainte-Odile: ⭐ ⭐ A historic mountain and monastery offering stunning views of the Alsace plain. Distance in km: 39.83
25. The Alsace-Moselle Memorial: A museum dedicated to the history of the Alsace and Moselle regions during the World Wars, highlighting the unique political and social changes experienced by the local population. Distance in km: 46.33

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Colmar offers a serene escape with its picturesque landscapes and charming atmosphere. Visitors can expect a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty, providing an ideal setting for relaxation. The town is known for its tranquil streets, scenic canals, and the surrounding lush countryside, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and rejuvenation.

1. Parc du Champ de Mars: A central park in Colmar offering a relaxing green space with a historic fountain.

Parc du Champ de Mars is a beautiful and well-maintained park located in the heart of Colmar. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a peaceful afternoon. The park features wide pathways, lush lawns, and the iconic Fontaine Bruat, a historic fountain that serves as a centerpiece. Visitors can enjoy the shade of mature trees, benches for resting, and a playground for children. It's a great place for families, couples, and anyone looking to unwind in a serene environment.

Type: park | Fee: free
2. Jardin des Dominicains: A tranquil garden attached to the Dominican Church, offering a peaceful retreat.

Jardin des Dominicains is a charming garden located next to the Dominican Church in Colmar. This hidden gem is often less crowded, providing a quiet escape from the bustling city streets. The garden is beautifully landscaped with flower beds, manicured lawns, and shaded areas. It's an ideal spot for contemplation, reading, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. The garden's proximity to the historic church adds a sense of tranquility and history to the experience.

Type: garden | Fee: free
3. Parc de Schoppenwihr: A large, picturesque park with diverse plant species and a lake.

Parc de Schoppenwihr is a stunning park located a short drive from Colmar, known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes. It is a private park that opens to the public on specific days. The park features a variety of plant species, including rare and exotic trees, and a serene lake that attracts a variety of birdlife. Visitors can explore the park's extensive walking trails, enjoy picnics by the water, or simply take in the natural beauty. It's a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Type: park | Fee: varies (typically around €5)
4. Jardin Public de Colmar: A small public garden in Colmar offering a peaceful place to relax.

Jardin Public de Colmar is a quaint and well-kept public garden that provides a peaceful oasis in the city. It's a great spot for a quiet stroll or a moment of relaxation amidst greenery. The garden features a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, with benches strategically placed for visitors to sit and enjoy the surroundings. It's a lovely spot for locals and tourists alike to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some fresh air.

Type: garden | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist Office of Colmar

Tourist information center

Address: Pl. des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Colmar?

Colmar offers a charming and compact environment perfect for exploring on foot. The town's picturesque streets and historic architecture create a delightful atmosphere for pedestrians. Public transportation is available, although the town's size makes walking a convenient option. Cycling is also popular, with designated paths and bike-friendly routes. Ride-sharing services provide additional flexibility for getting around.

In Colmar's center, many areas are pedestrian-only, allowing visitors to enjoy the sights without traffic. The TRACE bus network covers the town and surrounding areas, offering a reliable way to reach various destinations. While Colmar lacks a metro system, the bus service compensates with frequent routes. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are available at several locations, providing an eco-friendly way to explore. Ride-sharing services like Uber operate in the area, offering convenient transport options. Practical tips include wearing comfortable shoes for walking and checking bus schedules in advance to optimize travel plans.