I almost skipped Colmar on my first France trip. Would’ve been the biggest travel mistake of my life.
This Alsatian gem looks impossibly perfect, half-timbered houses, flower-draped canals, cobblestone everything. But it’s gloriously real, and it’s waiting for you.
I’ve been back four times now, in different seasons and with different people. I’ve learned what’s actually worth your time and what you can skip.
I’m breaking down the things to do in Colmar that genuinely matter – the top experiences everyone should have, the best activities if you’re bringing kids, and why visiting at Christmas might ruin all other holiday markets for you forever.
You deserve to see this town at its absolute best, not just rush through on a day trip.
Let me show you how.
Why Colmar Is a Must-Visit Destination
Colmar sits in the heart of Alsace, perfectly positioned between Strasbourg, Germany, and Switzerland.
The town is famous for its Alsatian infrastructure and amazing canals. Colorful half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets.
Spring through summer offers warm weather and outdoor dining. Winter turns Colmar into a fairy tale, especially during the Christmas market season.
The things to do in Colmar France attractions range from world-class museums to simple canal walks.
The top things to do in Colmar France in winter rival any European destination, and things to do in Colmar France at Christmas put it on every holiday bucket list.
19 Things to Do in Colmar France
Here are the experiences that define a Colmar visit. I’ve done all of them, and each one adds something special.
1. Visit Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
This is Colmar’s most photographed spot. Canals wind between colorful houses that lean toward the water.
The reflection of buildings creates postcard-perfect scenes. Early morning gives you the best light and fewer crowds.
I recommend visiting at golden hour. The soft light makes those pastel facades glow.
Little Venice ranks among the top things to do in Colmar, France. You can walk along the water or take a boat tour.
2. Visit the Unterlinden Museum
This museum houses incredible art in a former monastery. The star piece is the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterwork of German Renaissance art.
You’ll find both medieval and modern art collections here. The building itself is worth seeing.
Plan at least two hours for a proper visit. The altarpiece alone deserves 30 minutes.
This is one of the must-see things to do in Colmar France attractions.
3. Stroll Around Old Town
Colmar’s Old Town is made for wandering. Cobblestone streets curve between buildings that date back centuries.
Every corner reveals another photo-worthy scene. The infrastructure mixes German and French influences radiantly.
Start at Place de l’Ancienne Douane and work your way outward. Get lost on purpose.
I’ve walked these streets at different times of day. Late afternoon brings radiant shadows across the facades.
4. See the House of Heads (Maison des Têtes)
This Renaissance building gets its name from the 106 carved heads decorating its facade.
The building now houses a restaurant and wine bar. You don’t need to eat there to admire the exterior.
The craftsmanship is remarkable. Look closely at how detailed each carved head is.
It’s one of those quick stops that leaves an impression.
5. Visit Saint-Martin Collegiate Church
This Gothic church dominates Colmar’s skyline. Its colorful tile roof is distinctly Alsatian.
The interior features soaring arches and radiant stained glass. The church dates back to the 13th century.
Visit during off-hours for a peaceful experience. Morning light through the windows is spectacular.
The church is free to enter.
6. Take a Boat Tour on the Canals
Flat-bottomed boats glide through Colmar’s canals, giving you a water-level view of Little Venice.
Tours last about 30 minutes and provide great photo opportunities. The guide shares history and points out infrastructural details.
This is romantic for couples and fun for families.
Boat tours rank among the best things to do in Colmar, France. Book ahead during summer and Christmas season.
7. Visit the Pfister House
This Renaissance mansion from 1537 features elaborate wooden galleries and frescoes.
The corner location makes it stand out. Ornate paintings cover the facade, showing biblical and historical scenes.
You can only view it from outside, but that’s enough.
Grab your camera. This is prime photography territory.
8. Try Alsatian Wine in a Local Vineyard
Colmar sits along the Alsace Wine Route. The region produces excellent Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
Several wineries offer tastings within a short drive. Many are family-run operations with cellars dating back generations.
I recommend visiting Domaine Weinbach or Domaine Zind-Humbrecht.
Book ahead, especially during harvest season.
9. Visit the Toy Museum
This museum displays toys from the 19th and 20th centuries. Three floors showcase dolls, trains, and mechanical toys.
Kids love seeing toys from different eras. Adults enjoy the nostalgia factor.
The collection includes everything from tin soldiers to vintage board games.
This is definitely one of the things to do in Colmar, France with kids. Plan about an hour here.
10. Relax at Parc du Champ de Mars
This park offers green space in the town center. Locals come here to picnic, play, and relax.
There’s a playground for children and plenty of benches. Trees provide shade on hot summer days.
The park hosts occasional events and concerts.
Pack a picnic from the covered market. Another great option for things to do in Colmar France with kids.
11. Take a Day Trip to Eguisheim
This circular village sits just 10 minutes from Colmar. Concentric streets wrap around a central square.
Eguisheim regularly wins awards for being France’s most lovely village. Flower-covered houses create an almost unreal level of charisma.
You can walk the entire village in an hour. Plan more time for wine tasting and lunch.
This is easily one of the top things to do in Colmar, France if you have an extra half-day.
12. Visit the Bartholdi Museum
Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor who created the Statue of Liberty, was born in Colmar.
You’ll see original models and sketches of the Statue of Liberty. The museum also displays his other works.
It’s fascinating to learn about the artist behind such an iconic monument.
Art and history fans will appreciate this stop.
13. Taste Local Alsatian Food
Alsatian cuisine is hearty and delicious. You need to try the regional specialties.
Must-order dishes include tarte flambée, choucroute, and baeckeoffe. Wash it down with local Riesling.
Wistub de la Petite Venise and JY’S serve excellent traditional food.
Don’t skip the kugelhopf for dessert.
14. Visit the Dominican Church
This 13th-century church is quieter than Saint-Martin but equally impressive. It houses “The Virgin of the Rose Bush,” a famous 15th-century painting.
The Gothic interior creates a peaceful atmosphere. Stained glass windows cast colorful light across stone walls.
It’s a good spot for quiet reflection.
Entry is free.
15. Enjoy the Colmar Christmas Markets
Colmar changes into a winter wonderland each December. Five different Christmas markets spread across the town.
The markets sell handmade crafts, ornaments, and traditional treats. Mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fill the air.
The markets run from late November through December.
This is the highlight of things to do in Colmar France at Christmas and things to do in Colmar France in December. Book accommodations months ahead.
16. Attend the Winter Lights Festival
Special lighting installations illuminate Colmar’s buildings and streets during winter.
Buildings glow with projections and colored lights. The town already looks like a fairy tale, and the lights amplify that feeling.
The festival runs alongside the Christmas markets.
This ranks high among things to do in Colmar, France in winter. Bring your camera for night photography.
17. Go Shopping at Rue des Marchands
This street is Colmar’s main shopping area. You’ll find local boutiques, souvenir shops, and artisan studios.
Look for Alsatian pottery, Christmas ornaments, and local wines. The street itself is pretty.
I always pick up a few wine bottles and some handmade ornaments.
Shop between sightseeing stops.
18. Try a Food Tour or Guided Walk
Guided tours help you understand Colmar’s history while sampling local specialties.
You’ll visit markets, bakeries, and restaurants you might otherwise miss. Guides share stories about Alsatian culture and traditions.
I learned a ton on my food tour.
This is one of the best things to do in Colmar, France for first-time visitors.
19. Visit the Covered Market
The Marché Couvert sells fresh produce, cheese, meat, and prepared foods. It’s where locals shop.
Arrive in the morning for the best selection. You can buy picnic supplies or just browse the stalls.
The cheese selection is outstanding.
This gives you a peek into daily life.
Top Things to Do in Colmar France: Quick Itinerary (1 Day / 2 Days)
One-day itinerary: Start at Little Venice for morning photos. Walk through Old Town. Take a canal boat tour before lunch.
Visit the Unterlinden Museum in the afternoon. End with dinner near Place de l’Ancienne Douane.
Two-day itinerary: Day one follows the plan above. Add Saint-Martin Church and shopping on Rue des Marchands.
Day two, drive the wine route. Stop at a winery for tasting. Visit Eguisheim for lunch. Return to Colmar for a food tour.
This covers the major things to do in Colmar France without feeling rushed.
Conclusion
I’ve sent dozens of friends to Colmar. Every single one thanks me later.
The things to do in Colmar, France will stick with you long after you leave. Colmar is one of the best places to visit in France for a fairy-tale experience.
Book your trip now before everyone else figures this out. Seriously, it’s getting more popular every year.
Which season are you choosing? Winter markets or summer canals? Drop a comment below. I reply to everyone and love helping with trip planning.
Your Colmar story starts now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Colmar, France?
Top attractions include Little Venice, Unterlinden Museum, canal boat tours, Old Town walks, and the Christmas markets. Wine tasting in nearby vineyards and day trips to Eguisheim also rank high.
Is Colmar worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely, winter is one of the best times to visit. The Christmas markets are world-famous, and the Winter Lights Festival creates a magical atmosphere throughout December.
What are the top attractions in Colmar, France?
Must-see spots include Little Venice, Unterlinden Museum, Saint-Martin Church, House of Heads, and Pfister House. The Bartholdi Museum and covered market are also excellent.
What are fun things to do in Colmar, France with kids?
Visit the Toy Museum, take a canal boat tour, relax at Parc du Champ de Mars, and visit the covered market. Kids also enjoy the Christmas markets with their lights and treats.
What should I do in Colmar, France in December?
Visit the five Christmas markets, enjoy the Winter Lights Festival, taste mulled wine and local treats, and visit decorated streets. Book accommodations well in advance for this peak season.
