Places to visit in Colmar France: Top 12 Must-Visit Spots in France’s Fairytale Town

Imagine stepping into the pages of a storybook, pastel-coloured houses with timber frames, flower-filled balconies, and canals so charming they inspired Belle’s village in Beauty and the Beast. That’s Colmar, a small but magical town in France’s Alsace region. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like wandering through a Disney scene, where every corner has a touch of whimsy.

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About Colmar

Colmar is a town rich with history and charm, located near the German border. From Colmar station, it’s just a 10–15-minute walk into the heart of the fairytale-like old town. The town’s well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture makes it feel frozen in time and yet, it’s alive with bustling markets, local restaurants, and hidden alleys begging to be explored.

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Why Visit Colmar?

Colmar is often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful small towns, and for good reason. Whether you’re a history lover, photography or Disney enthusiast, foodie, or simply someone who craves enchanting scenery, Colmar has something for you. Its vibrant half-timbered houses, picturesque canals, and lively markets make it feel like a living painting.

How to Get to Colmar, France

The easiest way to visit Colmar is by train. I based myself in Strasbourg, the largest city in Alsace, which made travel seamless. Colmar is only a 30-minute train ride away, making it a perfect day trip. Strasbourg is also a major rail hub, so it’s convenient for connecting to other destinations in France or Germany.

If you’re traveling from Paris, Colmar is about 2 hours and 20 minutes away by train, so a day trip is also possible.

Best Time to Visit

Colmar is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a unique experience:

Spring & Summer: The canals bloom with flowers, perfect for photography and gondola rides.
Autumn: Golden vineyards surround the town, adding to its warmth and charm.
Winter: Colmar transforms into a Christmas wonderland with some of Europe’s most magical holiday markets.

If you can, plan your visit during spring or December to capture the most enchanting sides of the town.

I visited in late August, when the sun was shining and the warm weather made it ideal for long walks and gondola rides. The bright skies brought out the vivid colours of the half-timbered houses, making every corner look picture-perfect.

Top 12 Places to Visit in Colmar, France

1. Little Venice (La Petite Venise)

Colmar’s most famous district, where colorful half-timbered houses line the canals, creating scenes that feel straight out of a painting or even a story book. The gentle flow of water, arched bridges, and flower-filled balconies make it one of the most romantic spots in town.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or around sunset to avoid crowds and capture the soft light reflecting on the water.

2. Maison Pfister

A 16th-century architectural gem adorned with intricate murals, wooden galleries, and a turret. It inspired Studio Ghibli’s Howl’s Moving Castle. Its charming facade makes it one of Colmar’s most photographed buildings.

Tip: It’s not open to the public inside, so focus on photographing its unique facade from different angles, the best view is from Rue des Marchands.

3. Fontaine Schwendi

Known as “Belle’s fountain,” this lovely square centrepiece is a favourite for Disney fans. I even spotted a few visitors dressed up as Belle, it was a whimsical sight!

Tip: Come here in the morning before the square gets busy to enjoy a quieter, more magical atmosphere.

4. Petite Venise Scenic Bridge

One of Colmar’s most photographed locations, this bridge frames the canals with colourful houses, making it feel like a storybook scene.

Tip: Stand on the bridge at golden hour for that perfect fairytale shot. If you’re taking photos, bring a wide-angle lens to capture the whole view.

5. Cruce Rue Merciers / Grand Rue

A lively, bustling street filled with cafes, shops, and beautifully decorated facades. It’s easy to get lost admiring the architectural details while stopping for pastries or souvenirs.

Tip: Look up! Many facades are decorated with seasonal ornaments, hanging signs, or quirky figurines you’d miss if you only look at eye level.

6. Quartier des Tanneurs

This area is filled with photogenic timber-framed houses and winding alleys. The charm here is quieter compared to Little Venice, making it ideal for strolling at a relaxed pace.

Tip: Wander in the late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer crowds compared to Petite Venise.

7. Quai de la Poissonnerie

A scenic canal-side street that was once the hub of Colmar’s fish market. Now it’s one of the most picturesque spots for a peaceful walk. Tip: Cross the bridges here for postcard-perfect views of colourful houses mirrored in the water.

8. Point de Vue sur la Petite Venise

A beautiful lookout point providing a panoramic view of the canals and houses of La Petite Venise, a must for photographers and Instagram lovers. Tip: Go early or late in the day for photos without crowds.

9. Marché Couvert Colmar (Market Hall)

This covered market is a feast for the senses, filled with local produce, cheeses, breads, and Alsatian specialties. There’s also a terrace by the canal where you can enjoy a meal.

Tip: Try Le Pomme (apple and cinnamon dessert, €12.50) at La Terrasse du Marché by the canal, the portion is huge, so consider sharing. Also, it’s the perfect spot to get the view of the canal while enjoying your meal.

10. St. Martin’s Church

If you’re interested in historic landmarks, St. Martin’s is a grand Gothic church in the heart of Colmar. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it’s easily recognized by its impressive sandstone facade and distinctive green-tiled roof. Inside, you’ll find vibrant stained glass windows and a historic pipe organ that add to its timeless charm. Tip: Free to enter. Step inside not just for the stained glass, but also to cool off on hot summer days, the interior offers a refreshing break from the sun.

11. Gondola Ride

A magical flat-bottomed boat ride through the canals of Colmar. I chose with Barque Colmar au fil de l’eau (Sweet Narcisse) since the reviews were higher and they provided commentary, it was €9 per person. There is another canal boat company that charge €8.50 and they offer card payments at La Krutenau. Tip: Book in advance or your spot as soon as you arrive in Colmar, rides sell out quickly, especially the English commentary slots. Bring cash if paying on-site.

12. Rue des Clefs

Colmar’s main shopping street, where you’ll find local wine shops, boutiques, and charming cafes. Even a short stroll is a delight for discovering Alsatian crafts. Tip: Stop by in the late afternoon when shops reopen after lunch closures (usually 12–2pm).

Travel Tips

Many blogs mentioned cash-only businesses, but I found most places are now card-friendly. The gondola ride was the only time I needed cash.
A day is enough to explore Colmar, though staying overnight allows you to see the town when it’s quieter after day-trippers leave.
If you want a well-connected base, Strasbourg is the best choice for trains and day trips (which is where I based during my stay).
Don’t rush. Colmar is best enjoyed by strolling slowly and letting yourself be surprised by its charm.

If you’re wandering through Colmar and happen to spot little golden triangles on the ground, don’t just walk past them, they’re actually your secret guide! These brass plaques are engraved with a tiny Statue of Liberty, a nod to Auguste Bartholdi, the Colmar-born sculptor behind the famous monument in New York.

Follow them, and you’ll find yourself on a charming trail that links the city’s most beautiful spots, from colourful half-timbered houses to quiet corners you might have otherwise missed. The walk even starts at Colmar’s very own replica of the Statue of Liberty. It’s like a treasure hunt woven into the streets, perfect if you love exploring at your own pace while letting the city reveal its stories to you.

Highlights

A gondola ride through Little Venice.
Tasting Le Pomme dessert by the canal.
Discovering hidden side streets bursting with flowers.
Standing on bridges overlooking half-timbered houses, pure magic.

Colmar is a place where fairy tales feel real. From the pastel-colored half-timbered houses of Little Venice to the grand Gothic presence of St. Martin’s Church, every corner exudes charm and history. Wandering its cobbled streets, pausing on bridges, or drifting along the canals in a gondola makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

It’s a town that’s easy to explore in a day, yet rich enough to leave lasting memories, perfect for photographers, Disney fans, history buffs, or anyone seeking a little magic in everyday life.

It’s small enough to explore in a single day, yet enchanting enough to leave you wishing you had more. Perfect as a day trip from Strasbourg, Colmar proves that sometimes the most unforgettable destinations are found not in sprawling cities, but in small towns where magic lingers in the details.