Colmar holidays

How to reach Colmar

Flight time: Flights to Colmar are most conveniently accessed via EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, which offers direct flights from London in about 1 hour 30 minutes. Alternatively, Strasbourg Airport is also a good option, with flights taking around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Transfer time:

• From EuroAirport, the best way to reach Colmar is by train, which takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes, including a bus transfer from the airport to the Saint-Louis station.

• From Strasbourg Airport, a train journey to Colmar takes about 40 minutes.

Price:

• The train from EuroAirport to Colmar costs roughly €15–€20, depending on the time and day.

• From Strasbourg, expect to pay around €10–€15.

• A taxi from either airport directly to Colmar would cost significantly more, around €100–€150.

Best time to visit Colmar

Colmar is a culturally rich destination that is exciting to visit throughout the year with each season offering its own charm. Whether you're into picturesque landscapes, cultural festivals or winter festivities, Colmar holidays have something for everyone.

Spring (March to May): The weather is mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Rainfall is moderate, making it perfect for strolling through the charming old town and enjoying the early blooms.

Summer (June to August): This is the busiest tourist season, with warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. The city hosts several festivals and events, and the long daylight hours are perfect for exploring. However, it's advisable to book accommodation well in advance.

Autumn (September to November): This season offers cooler temperatures, from 10°C to 20°C, and is particularly beautiful as the vineyards turn vibrant hues. It’s less crowded than summer, making it a peaceful time to explore.

Winter (December to February): Known for its enchanting Christmas markets, Colmar transforms into a winter wonderland. Temperatures can drop to around 0°C, so pack warmly. The city is beautifully decorated and the festive atmosphere is magical.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: French is the official language, but German is also widely spoken due to the region's history. English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Colmar residents are known for their warm hospitality. It's polite to greet shopkeepers with a friendly "Bonjour" and to use "Merci" and "S'il vous plaît" frequently. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill is generally sufficient.

• Currency: The Euro is used. ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are widely accepted.

• Getting around: Colmar's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. The city also offers a bike-sharing programme, and bikes can be rented at various locations. For nearby trips, buses and regional trains are convenient, with a single bus ride costing around €1.50.

• Electricity and plug types: Colmar uses the standard European 220 volts with type C and E plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Colmar is on Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

Best things to do in Colmar

Colmar is a fairytale town brimming with history and culture. It’s known for its well-preserved old town, with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses that look like they've come straight out of a storybook.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• La Petite Venise (Little Venice): This picturesque area has beautiful canal views, especially when the houses are reflected in the water. It's particularly enchanting during the holiday season when everything is festively decorated.

• The Dominican Church Tower: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding vineyards. It's a great spot to appreciate the layout of Colmar and its historic architecture.

The best districts

• Old town: The heart of Colmar, with its winding streets and colourful medieval buildings, is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with plenty of cafés and boutiques to explore.

• Tanners Quarter: Known for its tall, narrow houses once inhabited by tanners, this district is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the town’s past.

Historical monuments

• Unterlinden Museum: Home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It also houses a fine collection of medieval and Renaissance art.

• Pfister House: One of the most beautiful houses in Colmar, dating back to 1537, Pfister House is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, adorned with frescos and wooden galleries.

• Church of Saint-Martin: A magnificent Gothic church that’s often mistaken for a cathedral due to its grandeur, it boasts beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate stone carvings.

Day trips in the area

• Riquewihr: A short drive from Colmar, this village is part of the Route des Vins d'Alsace (Alsace Wine Route) and is known for its wine and medieval architecture.

• Eguisheim: This is another charming village nearby, famous for its concentric streets and beautiful flower displays.

• Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg: A reconstructed medieval castle with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley, it’s a fantastic day trip for those interested in history and architecture.

Activities for families in Colmar

Colmar is a great family destination, offering a mix of educational and fun activities that will keep everyone entertained.

• Parks and gardens: Champ de Mars Park is perfect for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon. It has a picturesque carousel and plenty of space for children to stretch their legs.

• Interactive museums: The Toy Museum of Colmar is a huge hit with kids, featuring a collection of toys from different eras, but it’s also a nostalgic experience for adults!

• Boat trips: A boat tour in La Petite Venise is a delightful way to see the town from a different perspective. It's especially magical at night when the buildings are lit up.

Free things to do in Colmar

Exploring Colmar doesn’t have to be a costly experience. There are plenty of exciting free activities to enjoy.

• Explore the old town: Simply wandering through the streets of Colmar is a joy in itself. The architecture, vibrant colours and historical sites offer endless photo opportunities.

• Christmas markets: During the festive season, the Christmas markets are free to visit and offer a wonderful atmosphere. The decorations, lights and various stalls create a magical experience.

• Stroll along the canals: The canals of La Petite Venise are free to explore. The charming surroundings are perfect for a leisurely walk, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Wellness in Colmar

While Colmar is best known for its picturesque streets and rich history, it also offers a variety of wellness experiences. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering.

• Spas and thermal baths: Colmar has several luxurious spas that offer a range of treatments. From full-body massages to facials using local ingredients, these wellness centres provide a serene escape. Some spas even incorporate wine-based treatments, making use of the region's famous product in a unique way.

• Traditional body care: Traditional Alsatian wellness practices include herbal treatments and hot stone massages, which are perfect for soothing tired muscles after a day of sightseeing. Many spas also offer traditional hammam experiences, which involve a steam bath followed by an exfoliating scrub.

• Yoga and meditation: There are a number of yoga studios in Colmar that offer classes for all levels. Whether you’re looking for a vigorous session or a peaceful meditation class, these studios provide a calming space to stretch and breathe. Some hotels and wellness centres also offer yoga and meditation retreats, often in beautiful settings that enhance the sense of tranquillity.

Nature and outdoor activities in Colmar

The region's unique landscapes, from rolling vineyards to lush forests, provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the great outdoors.

• Hiking and walking trails: The Vosges Mountains near Colmar offer numerous hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness. The trails wind through dense forests, open fields and along scenic ridges, providing stunning views of the Alsace region. The Sentier des Crêtes is a popular route that showcases the natural beauty of the area, including rare plants and wildlife.

• Cycling: The Alsace Wine Route is not only famous for its vineyards but also as a fantastic cycling route. Cyclists can enjoy leisurely rides through picturesque villages, stopping at wineries along the way for tastings. The well-maintained paths make for a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.

• Boating on the Rhine River: For a more relaxed outdoor activity, consider a boat trip on the Rhine River. These excursions offer a peaceful way to see the region from a different perspective, passing through scenic landscapes and charming riverbanks.

• Birdwatching: The Ried, a natural area near Colmar, is a haven for birdwatchers. This wetland area attracts a wide variety of bird species, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts to observe and photograph local wildlife.

• Paragliding: Paragliding over the Vosges Mountains offers an exhilarating experience with sensational views of the region's landscapes. There are several paragliding schools and tour operators that offer tandem flights, providing a safe way to try this thrilling sport.

Local dishes in Colmar

Colmar offers a delightful array of traditional Alsatian cuisine. Here’s a taste of what you can expect during holidays to Colmar.

Some typical dishes

• Tarte Flambée: Also known as flammekueche, this is a thin, pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions and lardons. It’s crispy, savoury and utterly delicious.

• Choucroute Garnie: A hearty dish of sauerkraut cooked with sausages, ham and other meats. It's a comforting meal, perfect for cooler days.

• Baeckeoffe: A traditional Alsatian casserole made with potatoes, onions and marinated meats, all slow-cooked in a sealed pot.

Sweets and desserts

• Kougelhopf: A sweet, yeasted cake flavoured with almonds and raisins. It’s a popular treat for breakfast or with coffee.

• Bredele: Small, spiced biscuits that come in various shapes and flavours. They are especially popular during Christmas.

Local drinks

• Alsatian Wine: Colmar is in the heart of Alsace’s wine country, so tasting the local wines is a must. Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris are some of the most renowned varieties.

• Eaux-de-vie: Strong fruit brandies made from local fruits like cherries, plums and raspberries.