Looking for a magical escape from Paris that feels straight out of a storybook? A day trip to Colmar, nestled in the heart of France’s Alsace region, might be exactly what you need. With its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and canals that sparkle under festive lights in winter, Colmar is often called one of the most charming towns in Europe.
As a tour guide who hosts over 100 travelers a year, I’ve learned what makes a place truly memorable—and Colmar always ranks high on that list. Whether you're drawn by the fairytale architecture, the Christmas markets, or just want a peaceful break from the Paris crowds, this little town offers a refreshingly different side of France.
In this guide, I’ll share the 15 best spots to visit in Colmar—handpicked based on what travelers tend to love most. You'll also get practical tips on how to get there, how much you can realistically see in one day, and how to make the most of your time. Let’s begin your journey into this storybook town!
If you're considering a day trip to Colmar and want help planning your route and getting around on the day, consider hiring a local tour guide who knows the logistics. Working with a private guide can make your visit even more rewarding.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
Colmar Highlights: 15 Best Spots (Tour Guide’s Picks)
Colmar may be small, but it’s packed with beauty, history, and charm around every corner. In just one day, you can experience canals, cathedrals, colorful houses, museums, markets, and more. Here are 15 of the best places to explore—personally selected based on what travelers find most magical.
Little Venice (La Petite Venise)
If you’ve seen a photo of Colmar, chances are it was taken here. Little Venice is the most iconic and romantic part of town—where pastel-colored, half-timbered houses line the gentle curves of a narrow canal. It’s the heart of Colmar’s fairytale charm.
Take a stroll along the riverbanks or enjoy a short boat ride (seasonal) to see the town from the water. Early morning or golden hour offers the best lighting for photos, and it’s especially magical during the Christmas season when lights reflect on the water.
Don’t miss: Rue de la Poissonnerie, the pedestrian bridge over the canal, and the view from the Quai de la Poissonnerie.
Address: Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar, France
Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Colmar’s Old Town is a living postcard. Every corner feels like a movie set, with narrow alleyways, vibrant facades, and centuries-old houses that showcase Alsace’s unique blend of French and Germanic architecture.
This is the best area to simply wander and get lost—you’ll stumble upon historic fountains, hidden courtyards, and artisan boutiques. Don’t rush. Pause for a pastry at a café terrace or browse local shops for handmade souvenirs like pottery, textiles, and Alsatian wines.
Don’t miss: Rue des Marchands, Place de la Cathédrale, and the charming side streets that branch off into quieter residential areas.
Address: Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar, France
Saint Martin’s Church (Église Saint-Martin)
Often mistaken for a cathedral, this impressive Gothic church dominates Colmar’s skyline. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, Église Saint-Martin is a masterpiece of Alsatian religious architecture and a peaceful spot to step inside and reflect.
The sandstone facade, colorful tiled roof, and tall bell tower make it one of the town’s most striking buildings. Inside, you’ll find elegant stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork, and a sense of quiet reverence that contrasts beautifully with the lively streets outside.
Don’t miss: The main entrance’s detailed carvings, the high vaulted ceilings, and the organ loft near the rear.
Address: Place de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar, France
Pfister House (Maison Pfister)
Built in 1537, the Pfister House is one of Colmar’s most photographed landmarks. It perfectly captures the blend of medieval and Renaissance styles that defines Alsatian architecture—with its corner turret, wooden balconies, octagonal oriel, and richly painted exterior walls.
Though the house was never home to nobility, it became a symbol of Colmar’s bourgeois pride. The murals depict biblical scenes and historical figures, and the woodwork details are a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.
Don’t miss: The view from the opposite side of Rue des Marchands, where the house stands out against the colorful street.
Address: 11 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar, France
Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden)
Housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent, the Unterlinden Museum is Colmar’s most renowned cultural institution. It’s best known for the Isenheim Altarpiece, a powerful Gothic masterpiece that draws art lovers from around the world.
But the museum offers more than religious art. Its vast collection spans archaeology, Renaissance painting, decorative arts, and even modern pieces. The recent expansion by Herzog & de Meuron seamlessly blends old and new architecture.
Don’t miss: The cloister garden, the Isenheim Altarpiece, and the underground gallery connecting the historic and modern wings.
Address: 1 Rue d’Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar, France
Koïfhus (Old Customs House)
The Koïfhus is the oldest public building in Colmar, dating back to the 15th century. Once a customs house and commercial hub, it played a central role in the city’s economic life during the Middle Ages.
Today, it hosts temporary exhibitions, local craft markets, and seasonal events—especially during the Christmas season. Its striking architecture, with colorful roof tiles and a symmetrical design, makes it a favorite among photographers.
Don’t miss: The corner staircase tower and the vaulted ground floor halls.
Address: Place de l’Ancienne Douane, 68000 Colmar, France
Covered Market (Marché Couvert)
Located near Little Venice, Colmar’s covered market is a great stop for fresh regional products and a quick bite. Inside, you’ll find stalls selling Alsatian cheese, charcuterie, bread, seasonal fruits, wine, and more.
It’s a convenient place to take a break from sightseeing and sample local flavors. Grab a pretzel or tarte flambée and enjoy it on the terrace overlooking the canal if the weather is nice.
Don’t miss: The canal-side terrace and the regional wine stalls inside.
Address: 13 Rue des Écoles, 68000 Colmar, France
Bartholdi Museum (Musée Bartholdi)
This museum is dedicated to Colmar-born sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, best known for designing the Statue of Liberty. Located in his former family home, it showcases models, drawings, and personal belongings.
The museum highlights Bartholdi’s career and patriotism, and also features works that reflect Alsace’s identity during the Franco-Prussian period. It’s a must-visit for those interested in art, history, or Franco-American connections.
Don’t miss: The original model of the Statue of Liberty in the courtyard.
Address: 30 Rue des Marchands, 68000 Colmar, France
The Fishmonger’s District (Quartier des Poissonniers)
Once home to the town’s fishermen, this district is now one of Colmar’s most photogenic areas. Narrow alleys and pastel facades give it a cozy, almost hidden feel—especially compared to the busier parts of the Old Town.
The charming footbridges and reflections in the water offer some of the best photo opportunities in town. It’s an area where time seems to slow down.
Don’t miss: Early morning strolls before the tour groups arrive, and the flower boxes in spring and summer.
Address: Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar, France
Dominican Church (Église des Dominicains)
This former Dominican church, built in the 13th century, now serves as both a place of worship and a small museum. Its highlight is the “Madonna of the Rose Garden”, a 15th-century masterpiece by Martin Schongauer.
The space is peaceful and less visited than Saint Martin’s, making it ideal for a quiet moment. The stained-glass windows, slender columns, and vaulted ceilings create a serene Gothic atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The Schongauer painting and the elegant interior arches.
Address: Place des Dominicains, 68000 Colmar, France
Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)
This charming museum is a nostalgic stop for both kids and adults. It houses over a thousand toys from the 19th century to the present—including dollhouses, mechanical toys, LEGO, and model trains that run through a miniature Alsace village.
The museum is interactive and family-friendly, making it a great break from churches and architecture-heavy sightseeing. Exhibits are well-labeled and presented in multiple languages.
Don’t miss: The working model train display and rotating temporary exhibits.
Address: 40 Rue Vauban, 68000 Colmar, France
Maison des Têtes (House of Heads)
Built in 1609, the Maison des Têtes—House of Heads—is one of Colmar’s most unusual buildings. Its facade is decorated with over 100 sculpted faces, ranging from expressive to grotesque, symbolizing wealth, satire, and human nature.
The building is now home to a fine dining restaurant and luxury hotel, but the exterior alone is worth the visit. It’s one of the city’s best examples of Renaissance architecture.
Don’t miss: The rooftop statue of a cooper (barrel maker), added in the 1900s by sculptor Bartholdi.
Address: 19 Rue des Têtes, 68000 Colmar, France
Place de l’Ancienne Douane
This central square is the social heart of Colmar and home to the Koïfhus building. Throughout the year, it hosts seasonal events—including one of the city’s most popular Christmas markets.
Surrounded by cafes and beautiful historic buildings, it’s a great place to take a short break, snap photos, or simply soak in the local atmosphere. The square is especially atmospheric in the evening when the lights come on.
Don’t miss: The nighttime illumination of the square during winter and local market events.
Address: Place de l’Ancienne Douane, 68000 Colmar, France
Christmas Markets (Seasonal)
From late November through December, Colmar transforms into a winter wonderland. The city hosts five distinct Christmas markets, each with its own theme and location—including Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d’Arc, and Little Venice.
You’ll find artisanal gifts, ornaments, regional food, and hot mulled wine (vin chaud). With lights draped across medieval facades and festive music playing throughout town, it’s one of the most magical holiday experiences in France.
Don’t miss: The children’s market in Petite Venise and the indoor artisan market at the Koïfhus.
Address: Various locations throughout Old Town
Local Wine Cellar Visit
Alsace is famous for its white wines, especially Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, and Colmar sits at the heart of the wine route. Many wine producers have tasting rooms right in town, offering samples and bottles to take home.
If you have time, stop by a local wine cellar (cave à vin) for a short tasting. Staff are typically friendly and happy to explain the region’s unique winemaking techniques.
Don’t miss: Bottled wine labeled “AOC Alsace” and asking for recommendations to pair with cheese or local cuisine.
Address: Multiple options—look for “Cave à Vins” signs in town
Suggested spot: Domaine Martin Jund, 12 Rue de l'Ange, 68000 Colmar
Whether you're planning a detailed walking route or simply looking for the best highlights to enjoy in a few hours, this list gives you a perfect starting point for your Colmar adventure.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
How to Get from Paris to Colmar
Visiting Colmar in one day from Paris is absolutely doable—especially if you plan ahead. While it’s located in northeastern France near the German border, France’s high-speed trains make the journey surprisingly smooth.
By Train (TGV – Recommended)
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Colmar is by TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) from Paris. Most trains depart from Gare de l'Est, and the journey takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes with a quick transfer in Strasbourg or sometimes Mulhouse.
Trains are frequent in the morning, especially around 6:00–8:00 AM, and you can return to Paris in the early evening, making this a perfect day trip.
Booking tips:
- Book tickets in advance on SNCF Connect or Trainline
- Prices vary based on time and how early you book (expect €50–€120 round-trip)
- Choose a flexible return time if you're unsure how long you'll stay
By Car
Driving to Colmar from Paris takes about 5 to 5.5 hours one way, depending on traffic. While it’s scenic and gives you the freedom to explore nearby Alsatian villages, it’s not recommended for a day trip due to the long driving hours.
However, if you’re already traveling through eastern France or heading to Germany or Switzerland, stopping in Colmar by car can be a great detour.
By Guided Tour
While direct day tours from Paris to Colmar are not common, there may be private guides who can take you all the way from Paris—especially if you're looking for a more personalized experience.
Some guides even offer door-to-door service by car, which allows for greater flexibility and stops along the way. If you're looking to make the most of your day without worrying about transfers or schedules, this might be the most enjoyable option.
Feel free to reach out and inquire—your ideal guide might just be available. Contact a private guide here.
Can You Really Do It as a Day Trip?
While Colmar may seem far from Paris on the map, thanks to France’s high-speed trains, it’s absolutely feasible as a day trip—especially for early risers.
The key is to catch an early TGV train (around 6:00–7:00 AM from Paris Gare de l'Est), which gets you to Colmar by 9:00–10:00 AM. That gives you 5 to 7 hours to explore before heading back in the late afternoon or early evening.
This is plenty of time to cover the Old Town on foot, visit several key attractions, enjoy lunch, and even fit in a coffee or wine tasting. Colmar is compact, walkable, and easy to navigate—perfect for first-timers.
It won’t feel rushed if you focus on the highlights and avoid trying to “see everything.” Think of it as a magical escape from Paris, not a checklist mission.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
Suggested Walking Route for the Day
With most of Colmar’s highlights clustered in the historic center, you can easily explore the town on foot without needing public transportation or a guide—though having one can definitely enhance your experience.
Here’s a suggested route that balances must-see landmarks with time to relax, shop, and enjoy local food. This walking loop assumes you arrive around 10:00 AM and return around 5:00–6:00 PM.
Morning: Arrival & Scenic Walk
- Start at Colmar Train Station – Walk ~15 minutes to the Old Town
- Pfister House – Admire the Renaissance façade
- Saint Martin’s Church – Step inside this Gothic landmark
- Place de l’Ancienne Douane – Stroll through the heart of town
- Koïfhus – Quick photo stop outside the historic customs house
Midday: Lunch & Museums
- Covered Market – Grab lunch or snacks with local flavor
- Unterlinden Museum – See the Isenheim Altarpiece (allow ~1 hour)
- Bartholdi Museum – Short visit to learn about the creator of the Statue of Liberty
- Maison des Têtes – View the head-covered façade just across the street
Afternoon: Relax & Wander
- Little Venice – Slow walk along the canal, take photos
- Fishmonger’s District – Explore quiet alleys and bridges
- Wine Cellar Visit – Enjoy a short tasting session
- Toy Museum or Dominican Church (Optional, depending on time)
Final Stop: Return to the Station
- Walk back to the train station (~15–20 minutes)
- Optional: Stop at a bakery or souvenir shop along the way
This route lets you experience the essence of Colmar at a relaxed pace—no rush, no stress. You can easily adjust based on your arrival/departure times or interests.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
Bonus Tips from a Tour Guide
After guiding hundreds of travelers over the years, I’ve learned that the difference between a good trip and a great one often comes down to the little things. Here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your day in Colmar.
Start Early, Stay Ahead of the Crowds
Colmar can get crowded, especially around midday in Little Venice and the main squares. If you catch one of the earliest trains from Paris, you’ll enjoy a much more peaceful experience—ideal for photos and soaking up the atmosphere.
Best Photo Spots (and When to Go)
Little Venice: Beautiful in the golden hour (morning or late afternoon), but also magical at night in December.
Rue des Marchands: Try a wide shot facing Maison Pfister.
Fishmonger’s District: Great for reflection shots when the water is still (early morning).
Skip the Rushed Lunch—Snack Local Instead
Rather than spending an hour at a sit-down restaurant, grab something local from the covered market (like tarte flambée or kougelhopf) and eat by the canal or in the square. More time to explore, less waiting.
Pack for the Weather (Especially in Winter)
If visiting in December, bring:
- Warm layers (it can be damp and windy)
- Waterproof shoes (some streets are cobbled and may be wet)
- Gloves and a hat (especially if you’ll be outside for hours)
Watch for Hidden Alleys and Courtyards
Don’t just follow the main streets—Colmar is full of quiet corners that feel like private discoveries. Let yourself wander off route, especially around Rue des Boulangers and Rue des Tanneurs.
Little adjustments like these can elevate your entire experience.
Next, let’s compare Colmar with one of its most popular alternatives for a day trip from Paris: Bruges.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
Colmar vs. Bruges – Which Day Trip Is Better?
If you're deciding between Colmar and Bruges for a day trip from Paris, you're not alone. Both are beautiful, romantic towns filled with charm—but they offer very different atmospheres and travel experiences. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you choose.
Quick Comparison Table
So, Which Should You Choose?
Choose Colmar if you want:
- A quieter, more romantic escape
- A town that feels like a hidden gem
- Regional wine tasting and French countryside charm
Choose Bruges if you want:
- A livelier city feel with more major landmarks
- Classic Belgian food and beer experiences
- A place with more English signage and tourist infrastructure
Tour Guide's Take
If you've never been to either, Colmar often surprises people the most—in a good way. It’s smaller and more relaxed, which makes it ideal for a peaceful day trip. That said, Bruges is great if you’re short on time and want a bit more action, especially in summer when Colmar can feel very quiet.
There’s no wrong choice—but they offer very different flavors of Europe.
If you have time, visit both on different days!
Conclusion
A day trip from Paris to Colmar offers the perfect change of pace—stepping out of the big city and into a town that feels straight out of a fairy tale. From the colorful canals of Little Venice to the historic treasures of the Old Town, Colmar delivers charm, culture, and calm all in one.
Even in just a few hours, you can walk its cobbled streets, enjoy local food and wine, and take in sights that most travelers never forget. With the right plan—and maybe even the right guide—it’s a day you’ll remember long after you’ve returned to Paris.
If you’re still unsure how to structure your trip or want a more personalized experience, getting in touch with a private guide can take the guesswork out of it.
Book a 100% private, customizable tour for a day trip in Colmar from Paris—just choose a guide and message them.
