Colmar vacation packages

How to reach Colmar

• Travel options: The most convenient way to fly to Colmar is via EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, with flights available from major cities. Alternatively, Strasbourg Airport is another viable option.

• Transportation: From EuroAirport, the best way to reach Colmar is by train, which takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, including a bus transfer to the Saint-Louis station. From Strasbourg Airport, the train journey to Colmar takes around 40 minutes.

• Travel costs: The train fare from EuroAirport to Colmar ranges from approximately $16 to $21, depending on the time and day. From Strasbourg, expect to pay around $11 to $16. A taxi from either airport directly to Colmar would cost significantly more, roughly $107 to $160.

Best time to visit Colmar

Colmar offers a rich cultural experience year-round, with each season providing its unique appeal. From charming landscapes to cultural events and winter festivities, Colmar vacations have something for everyone.

• Spring (March to May): Enjoy mild weather with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F. It's an ideal time for walking through the old town and enjoying the early blooms.

• Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures between 68°F and 86°F. The city hosts several festivals, perfect for exploring during the long daylight hours. Booking accommodations in advance is advisable.

• Autumn (September to November): Experience cooler temperatures from 50°F to 68°F and stunning vine colors. It's less crowded, offering a tranquil time for exploration.

• Winter (December to February): Known for its beautiful Christmas markets, Colmar transforms into a picturesque winter scene. Temperatures can drop to around 32°F, so dress warmly. The festive decorations and atmosphere are enchanting.

Practical information

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

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

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

• Getting around: Colmar’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. The city also offers a bike-sharing program, and bikes can be rented at various locations. For nearby trips, buses and regional trains are convenient, with a single bus ride costing about $1.60.

• Electricity and plug types: Colmar uses the standard European 220 volts with type C and E plugs. An adapter is needed for travelers from the US.

• Time zone: Colmar operates on Central European Time, observing Daylight Saving Time.

• Travel documentation: Travelers from the US only need a valid passport to enter France for short stays; no visa is required.

Best things to do in Colmar

Colmar is a charming town full of history and culture. It's renowned for its well-preserved old town, where cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses make it seem like a storybook setting.

Viewpoints and panoramas

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

• The Dominican Church Tower: Climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding vineyards. This is a perfect spot to appreciate the layout of Colmar and its historic architecture.

The best districts

• Old Town: The heart of Colmar features winding streets and colorful medieval buildings, ideal for a leisurely stroll with plenty of cafés and boutiques to explore.

• Tanners Quarter: Known for its tall, narrow houses once used by tanners, this district offers a unique glimpse into the town's history.

Historical monuments

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

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

• Church of Saint-Martin: A magnificent Gothic church that is often mistaken for a cathedral due to its grandeur. It features 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 Alsace Wine Route and is known for its wine and medieval architecture.

• Eguisheim: 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 history and architecture lovers.

Activities for families in Colmar

Colmar is a fantastic 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 play.

• Interactive Museums: The Toy Museum of Colmar is a hit with kids, featuring a collection of toys from different eras, and offers a nostalgic experience for adults, too!

• Boat Trips: A boat tour in La Petite Venise provides a delightful way to see the town from a different perspective, especially magical at night when the buildings are illuminated.

Free things to do in Colmar

Exploring Colmar doesn't have to break the bank. There are plenty of free activities to enjoy.

• Explore the Old Town: Simply wandering through the streets of Colmar offers joy and endless photo opportunities with its architecture, vibrant colors, and historical sites.

• Christmas Markets: During the festive season, the Christmas markets are free to visit and provide a wonderful atmosphere with decorations, lights, and various stalls.

• Stroll along the canals: La Petite Venise's canals are free to explore, making for a charming 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, indulge in some well-deserved pampering.

• Spas and thermal baths: Colmar boasts several luxurious spas offering a range of treatments, from full-body massages to facials using local ingredients. Some spas even incorporate wine-based treatments, highlighting the region's famous product uniquely.

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

• Yoga and meditation: Colmar has several yoga studios offering classes for all levels. Whether you're seeking a vigorous session or a calming meditation class, these studios provide a peaceful space to stretch and breathe. Some hotels and wellness centers also offer yoga and meditation retreats set in beautiful locations to enhance tranquility.

Nature and outdoor activities in Colmar

The region's unique landscapes-from rolling vineyards to lush forests-create the perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration.

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

• Cycling: The Alsace Wine Route is not only famous for its vineyards but also as an excellent cycling route. Cyclists can enjoy rides through picturesque villages, stopping at wineries along the way for tastings. The well-maintained paths ensure 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 by scenic landscapes and charming riverbanks.

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

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over the Vosges Mountains with breathtaking views of the region's landscapes. Several paragliding schools and tour operators offer tandem flights, making it a safe and exhilarating activity to try.

Local dishes in Colmar

Colmar offers an enticing variety of traditional Alsatian cuisine. Here's a glimpse of what you can savor during your travel 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, savory, and absolutely 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 flavored with almonds and raisins. It’s a popular treat for breakfast or with coffee.

• Bredele: Small, spiced cookies that come in various shapes and flavors. 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.