Walking through Colmar felt like stepping into the town that inspired every Disney fairy tale ever made. No kidding, I actually had to remind myself this place was real as I wandered past its rainbow-colored medieval houses and flower-filled canals. The Little Venice quarter literally stopped me in my tracks, and I spent way too long just sitting at a canalside café, watching boats glide by while demolishing the best tarte flambée of my life.
After discovering all the best things to do in Colmar, I totally get why this Alsatian town makes visitors lose their minds. From gawking at the unreal Unterlinden Museum (home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece) to wandering through the buzzing covered market, this place delivers pure French magic without even trying. Trust me, photos don’t do it justice.
Best Things to Do in Colmar
Visiting Colmar? Spend the day at La Petite Venise, explore the fascinating Unterlinden Museum, or visit the lively Marché Couvert. Wander through the charming Quartier des Tanneurs or discover fun exhibits at the Colmar Toy Museum. Whether you’re into history, culture, or scenic strolls, Colmar has plenty to offer.
1. La Petite Venise
La Petite Venise is the postcard-perfect part of Colmar that you’ve probably seen on Instagram—and yes, it really looks like that. The pastel half-timbered houses, flower-filled balconies, and quiet canals are every bit as dreamy in real life. One of the best ways to explore it? Hop on a flat-bottomed boat ride through the canal. It’s calm, scenic, and you’ll float right under arched stone bridges with views that feel frozen in time.
I wandered through the neighborhood one morning with a croissant in hand, and ended up sitting for over an hour by the canal. It’s that kind of place—slow, inviting, and ridiculously photogenic. Local cafés like Wistub de la Petite Venise make it easy to grab lunch with a view. Whether you’re into photography, slow travel, or just good food, this spot is where Colmar’s magic feels most alive.
2. Unterlinden Museum
If you’re into art, the Unterlinden Museum is an essential stop in Colmar. It’s housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent and blends ancient architecture with sleek modern design. Inside, you’ll find everything from medieval religious works to contemporary art installations. The crown jewel? The Isenheim Altarpiece—an intense, emotional piece that people travel just to see.
I visited on a rainy afternoon, and it was the perfect way to slow down and absorb some local culture. The museum’s layout makes wandering feel intuitive, and the exhibits don’t overwhelm. Plus, the courtyard café is a relaxing spot to grab a coffee after you’ve had your fill of Renaissance masterpieces. Whether you’re an art nerd or just want a break from sightseeing, Unterlinden is a beautifully curated cultural experience worth your time.
3. Marché Couvert
Foodies, this is your paradise. Marché Couvert, Colmar’s lively covered market, sits inside a charming 19th-century brick-and-glass building near the canal. Dozens of stalls offer regional favorites—local cheeses, charcuterie, fruit brandy, fresh bread, pastries, and colorful produce. The vibe is casual and inviting, with locals and tourists weaving between displays and chatting with friendly vendors.
I stopped in for a snack and ended up staying nearly an hour. One of the stalls served warm tarte flambée, and I swear it was the best I’ve had in Alsace. You can also find ready-made picnic sets, Alsatian wine by the glass, or grab kougelhopf for later. Outside, there’s seating by the canal, which makes this an ideal spot for a midday bite. If you want to taste Alsace in one place, Marché Couvert is a must.
4. Quartier des Tanneurs
Quartier des Tanneurs is one of the oldest and most charming areas in Colmar. Its tall, half-timbered houses from the 17th and 18th centuries once belonged to tanners who dried leather in the open attics above. Now fully restored, the district combines architectural beauty with local life—think stone streets, flower boxes, and boutiques tucked behind centuries-old doors.
I wandered in thinking I’d just take a quick photo, but I stayed longer than expected. I grabbed a pastry and sat on a bench near the canal, just soaking in the quiet. You’ll find a few craft shops and cafes, and it’s less crowded than the more touristy areas nearby. If you like old towns with real character, this spot delivers. Quartier des Tanneurs is not flashy, but it tells Colmar’s story in the most authentic way.
5. Colmar Toy Museum
You don’t have to be a kid to love the Colmar Toy Museum. Housed in a former cinema, this nostalgic spot features over 1,000 toys—from classic tin cars and wooden trains to vintage Barbies and Nintendo consoles. The exhibits are grouped by era, so you literally walk through the evolution of playtime.
I visited on a whim and ended up spending nearly two hours exploring. There’s something strangely satisfying about seeing toys you played with as a kid behind glass. The museum is interactive too—some displays let you play or push buttons, which is a win for families. A working model railway runs through one section, and even adults couldn’t help stopping to watch it in motion. It’s a quirky, low-key way to spend an afternoon. If you’re looking for something fun and a little unexpected, Colmar Toy Museum is a great pick.
6. St. Martin’s Church
Smack in the middle of Colmar’s Old Town is St. Martin’s Church, a 13th-century Gothic masterpiece that’s hard to miss. Its pink Vosges sandstone exterior glows differently depending on the light, and the architectural details—soaring arches, intricate carvings, and stained glass—are just stunning. It’s not a cathedral, but it feels like one.
I slipped inside during a rainy afternoon and ended up sitting for nearly half an hour. There was an organist rehearsing, and the acoustics were unreal. The atmosphere is peaceful without feeling stuffy, which makes it a nice break from sightseeing. You can wander quietly through the nave or light a candle and take a moment to breathe. Whether or not you’re religious, this place has soul. If you like architecture or quiet moments in your travel days, St. Martin’s is worth the stop.
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7. Parc du Champ de Mars
Need a break from sightseeing? Parc du Champ de Mars is Colmar’s version of an urban green space, and it’s genuinely lovely. Think wide walkways, tall trees, and fountains surrounded by flowerbeds. It’s the kind of place where locals walk their dogs, kids race scooters, and couples lounge with baguettes and wine.
I came here with a takeaway sandwich and ended up reading on a bench for over an hour. The park’s main attraction is its beautiful old carousel, which plays vintage French music as it turns. There’s also a kids’ playground, shaded areas for picnics, and plenty of benches. It’s a good place to recharge without leaving the city center. You’re just a few minutes’ walk from the main square, so it’s easy to slip in between stops. For a slower, more local experience of Colmar, Parc du Champ de Mar is the spot.
8. House of Heads
The House of Heads is one of the quirkiest buildings in Colmar. Built in 1609, it’s covered in 111 carved faces—some comical, some creepy, all totally unique. Originally a merchant’s home, it’s now a hotel and brasserie, but you can still admire the facade from the street.
I first spotted it while heading to lunch and had to stop for a closer look. The level of detail is wild, especially when you realize these faces were carved over 400 years ago. Each one seems to have its own personality, from silly grins to scowls. The building also features a sculpted bust of a man wearing a barrel, created by none other than Auguste Bartholdi. It’s a quick stop, but absolutely worth seeing if you love historic oddities. Snap a photo, grab a pastry nearby, and enjoy one of Colmar’s strangest landmarks.
9. Bartholdi Museum
If you didn’t know the Statue of Liberty was designed by someone from Colmar, the Bartholdi Museum will surprise you. Located in the childhood home of sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, this museum is packed with models, sketches, and personal memorabilia. It’s small but filled with fascinating details about his life and legacy.
I wasn’t expecting much when I went in, but I got totally pulled in. There’s a miniature version of Lady Liberty in the courtyard, and inside, you’ll find beautiful sculptures and exhibits about his public works beyond New York. It was cool learning how deeply tied he was to Colmar—there are fountains he designed all over the city. You don’t need to be an art buff to enjoy it. It’s just genuinely interesting to see how one person left such a huge mark on two continents.
10. Colmar Christmas Markets
Colmar goes full fairy tale during December, and the Colmar Christmas Markets are what winter dreams are made of. The whole Old Town glows with twinkling lights, and five separate markets are spread out across the city—each with its own theme. Think wooden chalets, mulled wine, and rows of handmade ornaments.
I visited in early December, and it felt like stepping into a snow globe. The hot spiced wine at Place des Dominicains warmed me right up, and I found the cutest hand-knit mittens at the market near Koïfhus. There’s a mini children’s village, too, with animated displays and a mailbox for letters to Santa. It’s festive without being overly commercial. If you’re in Alsace during the holidays, you really can’t skip it. Come for the lights, stay for the cheese, wine, and Christmas magic.
11. Eglise des Dominicains
Eglise des Dominicains isn’t as flashy as some of Colmar’s other buildings, but don’t skip it. This 13th-century Gothic church houses the “Virgin in the Rosebush”, a hauntingly beautiful painting by Martin Schongauer. The stained glass windows are stunning, and the quiet atmosphere inside is calming.
I ducked in during a hot afternoon just to cool off and ended up staying much longer than planned. The interior is simple but moving—high vaulted ceilings, soft lighting, and rows of wooden pews. It’s not touristy, which makes it even better. You’ll often have it to yourself, or share it with just a few others. The garden outside is peaceful, too, especially when the roses are in bloom. If you enjoy art, quiet spaces, or Gothic architecture, Eglise des Dominicains is definitely worth your time.
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12. Colmar Wine Route
The Colmar Wine Route is a no-brainer if you love vineyards, countryside views, and good wine. This scenic drive takes you through some of Alsace’s prettiest villages—Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg are all close enough for a day trip. Along the way, stop at family-run wineries to sample crisp Rieslings and floral Gewürztraminers.
I rented a bike and visited a few tasting rooms just outside town. One winemaker in Eguisheim poured straight from the barrel and gave me a quick vineyard tour—it felt like a hidden gem. The best part? The route is super laid back. No fancy dress code or pressure to buy. Just warm welcomes, rolling vineyards, and good conversation. Whether you drive, bike, or take a tour, this route combines great wine with the kind of scenery you don’t want to leave.
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