Introduction
Colmar is a town that feels straight out of a fairy tale. With its colourful half-timbered houses, romantic canals and cobbled streets, it’s easy to see why this gem of Alsace, in France, inspired the sets of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast”. If you’re planning a getaway, this 3-day itinerary in Colmar will help you make the most of your visit, no rushing, with time to soak up the magic of the place.
Day 1: Arrival and the Heart of Colmar
Your first day in Colmar is for getting your bearings and easing into the town’s unique atmosphere. Start by exploring its historic core, where every corner is a photograph waiting to be taken.
Morning: “Petite Venise”
After arriving and dropping off your bags, the first must-stop is Petite Venise (Little Venice). This is Colmar’s signature image, with its colourful houses leaning over the canals of the river Lauch. Walk slowly, cross the small bridges and let yourself be charmed. If the weather allows, a boat trip through the canals is an excellent way to see the town from a different angle.
Afternoon: Fishermen’s and Tanners’ Quarters
Carry on exploring on foot through the Fishermen’s Quarter (Quartier de la Poissonnerie), where the town’s fishermen used to live. The houses here are equally charming, with their exposed wooden frames. Then move on to the Tanners’ Quarter (Quartier des Tanneurs), where the tall, open-roofed houses were used to dry hides. It’s a history lesson out in the open air.
Evening: Alsatian Dinner
For dinner, choose one of the many traditional restaurants (winstubs) and try the local food. Don’t miss the tarte flambée (a kind of thin pizza with cream, onion and bacon) or the choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with different kinds of meat and sausages). Pair it with a good Alsatian white wine, like a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer.
Day 2: Culture, Gastronomy and Views
On the second day, we go deeper into Colmar’s culture and flavours, with visits to markets, churches and museums.
Morning: Covered Market and Saint Martin
Start the day at the Covered Market, a historic building where you can find and try local products. From cheeses and cured meats to traditional sweets like the kougelhopf, it’s the perfect spot for a hearty breakfast or to grab some snacks for later. Then visit the imposing Collegiate Church of Saint Martin, often referred to as Colmar’s cathedral for its Gothic grandeur.
Afternoon: Art and History
Colmar has several interesting museums. The Unterlinden Museum, set in a former convent, is famous for housing the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of German art. Another option is the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the creator of the Statue of Liberty, who was born in Colmar. Yes, that one. In fact, you’ll find a replica of the statue on one of the town’s roundabouts.
Evening: Wine Tasting
Alsace is one of France’s most important wine regions. Use the evening for a tasting at one of the town’s many cellars. It’s a chance to learn more about the local grape varieties and discover new favourites.
Day 3: Architectural Icons and Goodbye
On your last day, take the time to visit some of Colmar’s most iconic buildings and do some last-minute shopping before heading off.
Morning: Houses With Names and History
Look for the Maison Pfister, one of Colmar’s most famous houses, with its Renaissance façade and mural paintings. Another building not to miss is the Maison des Têtes (House of Heads), decorated with more than 100 small carved heads. They’re two fantastic examples of the town’s unique architecture.
Afternoon: Shopping and “Au Revoir”
Spend the afternoon wandering the shopping streets, like Rue des Marchands, and buying some souvenirs. From local crafts to gastronomic specialities, there’s plenty to choose from. Say goodbye to Colmar with one last walk through Petite Venise, maybe with an ice cream in hand, before heading to your next destination.
What to know before you go
- Getting there: The closest airport is Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, but Strasbourg is also a good option. From either, you can catch a train to Colmar.
- When to go: Colmar is beautiful all year round. In spring and summer, the town is covered in flowers. In winter, the Christmas markets turn it into a magical place. Autumn, with its harvest colours, is also an excellent time to visit.
- Accommodation: Book in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit in high season or during the Christmas markets.
Where Multipark fits in
Travelling by car through Alsace gives you the freedom to explore not only Colmar, but also the picturesque villages along the Wine Route. If you arrive by plane in Basel or Strasbourg, renting a car with Multipark is the most convenient way to get to Colmar and move around the region at your own pace. That way, you don’t waste time on public transport and can find hidden corners that would otherwise stay off your radar.
Conclusion
Colmar is a destination that stays with you. Its beauty, its history and its food make it the perfect place for a 3-day getaway. We hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip and fall in love with this fairy-tale town. Have a great trip!
Plan your trip and plan your parking with Multipark at the airport with Multipark.
