What to Do in Colmar This Weekend? The Complete Guide for 2026
Updated in April 2026 — Reading time: 12 min
Fancy a weekend filled with the scent of mulled wine, geraniums, and half-timbered houses? Welcome to Colmar. The third-largest city in Alsace after Strasbourg and Mulhouse, it first captivates visitors with its pastel-colored houses, flower-lined canals, and peaceful atmosphere. Indeed, this city nestled in the heart of the vineyards offers a true blend of heritage, fine dining, and the good life—all on a very human scale.
The icing on the cake is that Colmar is about a 2.5-hour TGV ride from Paris, and once you’re there, everything is within walking distance. In other words, you’ll quickly forget about the car. Before you dive in, be sure to check out our guide to things to do in Strasbourg this weekend and our comprehensive guide to things to do in Alsace —so you don’t miss a thing.
📋 Table of Contents
🏰 Why choose Colmar for a weekend getaway?
Let’s be clear: Colmar has a charm that’s virtually unmatched in Alsace. As the region’s wine capital, the city also boasts a surprisingly well-preserved historic center. In fact, every alleyway reveals pastel-colored half-timbered facades, and every bridge offers a postcard-worthy photo opportunity. To check out current events, visit theColmar Tourist Office website.
823 First mention | 2 hours and 30 minutes TGV from Paris | 3,5 M visitors per year | No. 1 The Wine Capital of Alsace |
A preserved heritage in the heart of the vineyards
First mentioned in 823 in a charter issued by Emperor Louis the Pious, Colmar today boasts a delightful blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. For example, the Maison des Têtes (1609), the Maison Pfister (1537), and the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church (13th–14th centuries) alone tell the story of more than eight centuries of history.
That said, Colmar is more than just its historic buildings. In fact, its strategic location on the Alsace Wine Route also makes it the perfect base for exploring the nearby wine-growing villages. In short, there’s always more to discover in the surrounding area.
The perfect length for a weekend
The big advantage? Everything is within walking distance. So you can easily spend the morning at a museum, have lunch at a winstub, take a boat ride in the afternoon, and enjoy a wine tasting at a cellar before dinner. That’s why, in our opinion, Colmar remains one of the best-rounded destinations in the region for a car-free weekend.
🏘️ Colmar's Must-See Neighborhoods
Colmar is a bit like a mosaic: each neighborhood has its own character, its own scents, and its own picture-perfect views. The good news is that they’re all right next to each other. In practice, you can easily see it all in a day, taking your time on foot and stopping for some tasty treats along the way.
Little Venice — the romantic gem
This is THE most photographed neighborhood in Colmar, and it’s easy to see why. Its pastel-colored half-timbered houses are reflected in the Lauch, the small river that runs through the city. In fact, a ride in a flat-bottomed boat along the canals remains one of the most memorable experiences of a visit. By the way, the boats are operated by Sweet Narcisse and depart from the Quai de la Poissonnerie—be sure to stop by at the end of the day to catch the golden light.
Old Colmar — the historic heart
The first landmark in the city center, the Saint-Martin Collegiate Church proudly displays its glazed-tile roof. Built between 1234 and 1350, this Gothic church has witnessed nearly eight centuries of Colmar’s history. All around, the Cathedral Square and the Fruit Market Square offer the perfect setting for a break on a terrace, a coffee, or a glass of Crémant in the sun.
The Tanners' Quarter — the tall houses
Restored in the 1970s, this small neighborhood is home to very tall half-timbered houses. In the past, their open attics were used to dry hides processed by tanners. The result is narrow, tall, and remarkably well-preserved facades that delight architecture enthusiasts and amateur photographers alike.
Krutenau — the market gardeners' neighborhood
In contrast, Krutenau has a much more peaceful atmosphere. Once home to market gardeners who used to deliver their vegetables by boat to the covered market, it offers a chance to explore Little Venice from a much less crowded perspective. A quick tip: head up to the Saint-Pierre Bridge—it’s undoubtedly the best viewpoint in the neighborhood.
🎯 10 Must-Do Activities in Colmar
Where to start? Honestly, Colmar has something for everyone. Plus, the compact layout of the city center means you can go from one sight to the next without ever having to rush. So here’s our selection, organized into three main themes: art, strolling, and flavors.
🖼️ Museums and Masterpieces (1–4)
First things first: let’s talk culture. In fact, Colmar is home to several artistic treasures all within a ten-minute walk of each other. In other words, you can visit three museums in a single morning—without ever getting in the car.
1. View the Issenheim Altarpiece at the Unterlinden Museum
Let’s start with the undisputed highlight. A masterpiece by Matthias Grünewald completed around 1516, the Issenheim Altarpiece is on display in the former convent chapel. In addition, the Unterlinden Museum, renovated and expanded by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, reopened on December 12, 2015. Its collections span archaeology, fine arts, and modern art—enough to easily fill half a day.
2. Take a boat ride through Little Venice
A must-see and well worth the visit. The guided boat tour along the Lauch canals takes about 25 to 30 minutes. Especially at sunset, the orange reflections create an almost surreal atmosphere. Bonus: the flat-bottomed boats can accommodate up to six passengers, making it the perfect experience for families or friends.
3. Take in the view of the Maison des Têtes
More than just a building, it is a veritable open-air gallery. Built in 1609 by architect Albert Schmidt for merchant Anton Burger, its Renaissance façade features 106 grotesque heads and masks. It has been a listed historic monument since 1898 and is now home to a Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant.
4. Explore the Bartholdi Museum
Did you know that the Statue of Liberty was conceived in Colmar? Housed in the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi (1834–1904) at 30 Rue des Marchands, the Bartholdi Museum displays his sculptures, drawings, and models. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.—perfect for a late-morning visit.
🚶 Strolling through downtown (5–7)
Next, a change of pace. In fact, Colmar is best enjoyed without a specific plan, simply wandering through its narrow streets and squares. In short, these three stops fit perfectly between two cultural visits.
5. Stroll through the covered market
Here’s our top pick for a gourmet break. Built in 1865 by architect Louis Michel Boltz on the banks of the Lauch River, this brick-and-cast-iron building is a remarkable example of19th-century industrial architecture. Since 2010, it has hosted a permanent market from Tuesday through Saturday. Here you’ll find cheeses, charcuterie, Alsatian wines, and even a terrace perfect for a quick lunch.
6. Explore the Wine Route from Colmar
Good news for wine lovers: Eguisheim, Turckheim, and Kaysersberg are all less than a 15-minute drive away. In fact, that’s part of the charm of a stay in Colmar. To plan your wine-tasting itinerary, visit Vins d’Alsace.
7. Relax at Champ de Mars Park
Need a breath of fresh air between visits? Spacious lawns, a bandstand, and a playground await you just a stone’s throw from downtown. Especially on Sundays, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic in the shade of the plane trees.
🍷 Flavors, Vineyards, and Tradition (8–10)
Finally, let’s turn our attention to food and tradition. After all, Colmar isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also a renowned wine-growing region. So these last three experiences are a must if you want to leave with some truly memorable culinary memories.
8. Experience the Christmas Markets
You can’t miss them if you visit in winter. Colmar hosts six Christmas markets scattered throughout the historic center: Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d’Arc, Ancienne Douane, Koïfhus, Petite Venise, and the gourmet market. This year, the traditional markets will be held from November 22 to December 29, 2026. See also our guide to Alsace’s Christmas markets to help you plan your visit.
9. Wine tasting in a downtown wine cellar
A must-see for the curious. Several wineries offer tours where you can discover the seven Alsatian grape varieties: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner, Muscat, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir. That said, be sure to make a reservation during peak season, especially during the Colmar Wine Fair, which takes place every summer.
10. Explore the area by bike
To top it all off, hop on a bike. Well-marked bike paths connect Colmar to the wine-growing villages through the vineyards. This is undoubtedly the most enjoyable way to take in the scenery, especially in spring and fall, when the colors change week by week.
👁️ Spotlight: The Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance gem
Photo credit: Colmar Tourist Office
It’s impossible to walk past without looking up. Located at 19 Rue des Têtes, this house, built in 1609, is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular facades in Alsace. Indeed, it owes its name to the 106 grotesque heads and masks that adorn its three stories and its scroll-shaped gable. Furthermore, it was commissioned by the merchant Anton Burger from the architect Albert Schmidt, and today stands as a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture in Alsace.
A symbolic setting not to be missed
Take a moment to really look at the façade. The 106 carved faces display a wide range of expressions: laughter, grimaces, anger, and surprise. In fact, the owner’s coat of arms—a castle, “Burg” in German, hence the name—appears in two places on the facade: on the gable and above the gate. This abundance of ornamentation, typical of the Rhenish Renaissance, thus attests to the wealth of Colmar’s merchants in the early17th century.
Bartholdi’s Cooper: A Final Nod
Look up there. At the top of the fluted gable, a bronze statue of a cooper holding a glass has watched over the square since 1902. What’s more, this work is by Auguste Bartholdi, a native of Colmar and the creator of the Statue of Liberty. In other words, it serves as a reminder of the time when the Maison des Têtes housed the city’s wine exchange. In short, it’s a detail that many visitors miss, with their heads down on their phones.
Listed, protected… and Michelin-starred
True to its heritage, the Maison des Têtes has been listed as a historic monument since 1898. Furthermore, since 2015, it has been home to a gourmet hotel-restaurant that earned a Michelin star in February 2017. Thus, heritage and gastronomy come together here in a truly exceptional setting—the perfect spot for an anniversary dinner or a special lunch.
🍽️ Colmar’s cuisine: an Alsatian feast
Warm up your appetite: Colmar is a true paradise for food lovers. In fact, Alsatian cuisine can be enjoyed here in everything from traditional winstubs with dark wood paneling to Michelin-starred restaurants in the city center. In short, there’s something for every taste and budget.
Must-try signature dishes
Let’s start with the classics. First, choucroute garnie remains the king of dishes: fermented cabbage, smoked bacon, sausages, and potatoes—all to be shared in a cozy, wood-paneled setting. Another must-try is flammekueche (tarte flambée). It’s typically shared among friends, served nice and crispy, with a well-chilled Riesling.
The lesser-known gems
However, don’t miss out on baeckeoffe: a stew made with three types of meat marinated overnight in Riesling. Also, be sure to try the cumin-flavored Munster cheese and the famous almond kugelhopf—perfect for a Sunday brunch. Finally, if you’d rather cook up a storm yourself, the covered market offers a wide selection of fresh ingredients for a homemade picnic along the banks of the Lauch.
Wine, an essential part of any meal
It’s impossible to talk about Alsatian cuisine without mentioning wine. In fact, Colmar hosts the Foire aux Vins d’Alsace every year, a major summer event that brings together producers, artists, and visitors for ten days at the Parc des Expositions (July 31–August 9, 2026, for the77th edition). In addition, throughout the year, the downtown wine cellars offer guided tastings, often in17th-century vaulted cellars. For more information, check out the Vins d’Alsace website.
🚗 Day trips from Colmar within 30 minutes
Good news: Colmar is surrounded by historic villages, all of which are less than thirty minutes away. This means that a long weekend makes it easy to combine city life with nature getaways—without any stress or wasted time. Here are our four favorite getaways.
Eguisheim — France's Favorite Village 2013
Let’s start with the closest one. About a 10-minute drive away (7 km), Eguisheim welcomes you with its narrow streets winding in concentric circles around the castle. Plus, the flower-adorned half-timbered houses and wine tastings right at the vineyards make it a must-see. In fact, the village was voted “France’s Favorite Village” in 2013 on Stéphane Bern’s show on France 2—and it truly deserves the title.
Kaysersberg — the medieval gem
A little further on, about 15 minutes away (10 km), Kaysersberg offers a different experience. It is the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, a physician, theologian, and winner of the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize. In addition, the fortified bridge over the Weiss River and the castle ruins offer one of the most beautiful views in Alsace. To plan your day, check out our Wine Route suggestions.
Riquewihr and Turckheim — two gems worth exploring together
Two villages, a perfect half-day. On one side, Riquewihr is about 20 minutes away: nicknamed “the pearl of the Alsatian vineyards,” it charms visitors with the consistent quality of its medieval houses (13th–18th centuries) and its fine wines. On the other hand, the more intimate Turckheim preserves its tradition of the night watchman, who makes his rounds every evening at 10 p.m. from May1 to October 31, as well as during Advent. Thus, the two villages combine perfectly for a morning or an afternoon.
Haut-Koenigsbourg and Sélestat — culture and panoramic views
Finally, head north. The Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, perched 757 meters above sea level overlooking Orschwiller, is one of the most visited monuments in Alsace. In addition, Sélestat, about 20 minutes from Colmar, is home to the Humanist Library, which has been listed on UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” Register since 2011. Visit Sélestat Tourisme to plan your trip. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, check out Le Céleste in Sélestat or our rentals in the Bas-Rhin.
🏠 Where to stay for a weekend near Colmar?
Let’s talk about cozy getaways. Our accommodations near Colmar can be booked directly, so there are no commissions or middlemen. Plus, professional cleaning, hotel-quality linens, and the tourist tax are always included in the listed price. In other words, there are no unpleasant surprises at checkout. To see everything at a glance, check out our Nexvisit accommodations.
For a romantic couple: Le Céleste in Sélestat
Just 20 minutes from Colmar, Sélestat offers a true taste of Alsatian town life. Our studio, Le Céleste, is the perfect choice for a weekend getaway for two, away from the tourist crowds.
On the Wine Route: An Alsatian Getaway in Barr
Next, head to Barr, a charming wine-growing town at the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile. It’s the perfect choice for those who love wine tastings and hiking, with Colmar just a half-hour away.
For families and groups: La Maison Paisible
Finally, if you’re traveling with a group, Maison Paisible in Zellwiller has everything you need. Plus, its garden and central location make it the perfect base for exploring the areas around Colmar and Strasbourg.
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🎨 The Fun Side of Colmar: Fun Facts and Quirky Stories
Beyond the postcard-perfect views, Colmar also has its share of amusing stories, curiosities, and anecdotes that are sure to bring a smile to your partner’s face during your stroll. So here’s our little selection for the curious.
3 Surprising Historical Anecdotes
For one thing, the city’s walls are steeped in centuries of little-known stories. In fact, its name, architecture, and even its statues are full of delightful hidden references.
🕊️ Where does the name “Colmar” come from? It is thought to derive from the Latin word “Columbarium,” meaning “dovecote.” Thus, the city owes its name to an ancient farmstead first mentioned in 823 in a charter issued by Louis the Pious, son of Charlemagne.
🗽 A Statue of Liberty at the northern entrance. In addition, a 12-meter-tall replica greets motorists at the entrance to the city. Unveiled on July 4, 2004, it commemorates the 100th anniversary of the death of Auguste Bartholdi, the Colmar native who created the New York statue.
🍷 The Maison des Têtes was home to the Wine Exchange. That is why a bronze figure of a cooper by Bartholdi (1902) stands atop the gable, raising a glass.
3 pop culture trivia facts and surprising statistics
What’s more, Colmar also has a cinematic vibe and a few surprising records to its name. In fact, these three anecdotes are always a hit at every dinner party back home.
🎬 Miyazaki drew inspiration from Colmar, particularly for his film *Howl’s Moving Castle* (2004). After visiting in 2001 and again in 2002, the Japanese director had the Maison Pfister recreated exactly as it is in the film. In short, it’s a must-see destination for all Studio Ghibli fans.
🎄 1.5 million visitors in five weeks. In fact, Colmar’s Christmas market alone draws as many people as some major French cities do in an entire year—in just a month and a half.
🌉 Little Venice has never seen a gondola. In fact, the flat-bottomed boats are the direct descendants of the vessels that the Krutenau market gardeners used to deliver their vegetables to the covered market untilthe 19th century.
📅 When is the best time to visit Colmar?
Every season has its own charm, and that’s a good thing. To be honest, Colmar is a pleasant place to visit all year round, but the experience really does vary depending on when you go. So here’s our breakdown by season to help you pick the right time to visit.
🌸 Spring March through May — Geraniums on balconies, terraces reopening, mild temperatures. Perfect for cycling through the vineyards and avoiding the summer crowds. | ☀️ Summer June through August — Festivals, Wine Fair in early August, evening events along the banks of the Lauch. Long days perfect for combining city sightseeing with wine tours. | 🍂 Fall 🌟 September through November — Golden vineyards, harvest season on the Wine Route. Our favorite time of year for wine lovers. | ❄️ Winter December through February — Six Christmas markets, mulled wine, bredele, and holiday lights. The winstubs become cozy havens. |
Our personal recommendation
It’s really hard to choose. Overall, we think fall is the most authentic season, thanks to the grape harvest and the warm light that bathes the vineyards. However, winter, with its Christmas markets, offers a truly magical experience. In fact, Colmar welcomes 1.5 million visitors in just five weeks during this time. For more inspiration, check out our guide to things to do in Alsace.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Colmar
What to do in Colmar in two days?
Here is our tried-and-true itinerary. Day 1: Boat ride through Little Venice, the Unterlinden Museum featuring the Issenheim Altarpiece, the Maison des Têtes, and a stroll through Old Colmar. Next, Day 2: a trip along the Wine Route to Eguisheim (10 min) or Kaysersberg (15 min), then back for dinner at a winstub. For more ideas, check out our guide to the Alsace Wine Route.
How much should you budget for a weekend in Colmar?
Overall, expect to spend between €250 and €400 per person for two nights through Nexvisit, including meals and activities. For example, our accommodations near Colmar start at €98 per night, all-inclusive. In addition, budget about €25 to €45 per day for meals, and €15 to €25 per person for activities (museums, boat rides, tastings).
Is it possible to visit Colmar without a car?
Yes, and it’s actually recommended. In practice, everything is within walking distance of the train station, which is less than 10 minutes from the historic center. However, for the nearby wine-growing villages (Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr), a car or bike makes getting around much easier. Good to know: the TER also serves Sélestat and Turckheim, which is a great option if you don’t have a car.
When is the best time to visit Colmar?
Honestly, it all depends on what you’re looking for. On the one hand, fall remains the most authentic season: grape harvests, golden hues, and fewer crowds. On the other hand, the Christmas markets (late November through late December) offer a uniquely magical atmosphere. Finally, spring is ideal for avoiding the crowds and enjoying the outdoor cafes as they gradually reopen.
Is Colmar family-friendly?
Absolutely, and especially so. In fact, the boat ride through Little Venice, the Champ de Mars park, the Toy Museum, the Christmas markets, and the replica of the Statue of Liberty are sure to delight both children and adults alike. To plan your trip, be sure to check out our dedicated guide to Alsace with the family.
Where should I stay for a weekend trip to Colmar?
Nexvisit offers several options. First, our accommodations in Sélestat (Le Céleste, 20 min), Barr (L’Escapade Alsacienne, 30 min), and Zellwiller (La Maison Paisible, 35 min) make it easy to explore all of Alsace. Plus, booking is commission-free, with cleaning and linens included, and can be done directly through Nexvisit.
What is the Maison des Têtes in Colmar?
It is undoubtedly the most photographed facade in Alsace. Built in 1609 by architect Albert Schmidt for the merchant Anton Burger, the Maison des Têtes is a jewel of the Rhenish Renaissance. Indeed, its façade is adorned with 106 sculpted heads and masks, and its volute gable is topped by a bronze cooper signed by Bartholdi (1902). Furthermore, it has been classified as a historic monument since 1898 and today houses a Michelin-starred hotel-restaurant.
Plan your weekend in Colmar
Ultimately, Colmar brings together the very best that Alsace has to offer: historic landmarks, hearty cuisine, exceptional wines, and wine-growing villages just a stone’s throw away. Whether you choose the golden hues of autumn or the magic of the Christmas markets, every moment will stay with you forever. What’s more, the city’s compact layout guarantees a stress-free weekend on foot, with a wine cellar, a museum, or a winstub around every corner. In other words, you won’t get bored.
At Nexvisit, we offer more than 20 accommodations in the Bas-Rhin and Lorraine regions, each carefully selected for its comfort and authenticity. Book directly with us—with no commission, hotel-quality linens, and no tourist tax—and make the most of your getaway to Colmar. Plus, our listed rates are final: no hidden fees, and no surprise cleaning charges at check-in.
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