Are you planning a vacation in Alsace and looking for the best things to do in Colmar? The medieval town of Colmar has established itself as one of France’s favorites, thanks to its architecture and colorful houses. It’s time to discover famous activities in Colmar!
Now you’ll finally know what to do in Colmar to make the most of everything the town has to offer!
For starters, Colmar is the capital of Alsace wines, making it a must-see if you’re visiting the Haut-Rhin and surrounding area.
The canals that run through the town of Colmar give it a touch of Italy. In fact, it’s these canals that have earned Colmar its well-deserved nickname of “Little Venice”! Visitors can explore its center and canals by boat. A true gateway to the past of the wine route, you can sample this local product so dear to the hearts of the French.
Now that you know why you should visit this legendary village, let’s take a look at what you can do in Colmar in 2024?
Looking to recharge your batteries in the fresh air during your stay in Alsace? Why not take the opportunity to explore Old Colmar and try your hand at some original, educational activities? Let’s take a look at what you can do outdoors in Colmar.
If you’re in the mood for a little thrill, a Segway ride is the activity for you! Perched on a two-wheeled platform, all you have to do is lean the handlebars forward to move forward at the speed you want. This activity allows you to enjoy a slightly less conventional tour while taking in the picture-postcard scenery of the old town.
If you’re a fan of regional gastronomy, you’re in for a treat!
A visit to Alsace is also an opportunity to taste the best local products as close as possible to where they’re made.
Whether you’re a red or white wine team, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for among the 7 AOC grape varieties and the large number of appellations in this wine-growing region. Or maybe you’d prefer a glass of Crémant? The wine fair is also a great opportunity to celebrate these products of the French terroir. Enough to fill you up for the duration of your stay!
What’s more, if you’re already familiar with the famous flammenküche, sauerkraut and pretzels, this will also be an opportunity to sample other Alsatian specialties.
These include kougelhopf, baeckeoffe and manneles. The city is full of restaurants and activities where you can discover these rich, comforting dishes.
But what’s there to do with the whole family in Colmar? There’s plenty to do for the whole family in the town center and surrounding areas.
And if you’re wondering what to do in Colmar in winter…
The answer is obvious: its 6 fabulous Christmas markets! You’ll find them on :
Colmar is renowned for its magical Christmas markets, which are held throughout December.
You’ll be able to find all kinds of local handicrafts, while immersing yourself in the magic of the season with a hot drink!
Among the activities available in Colmar, you can try out the open-air Escape Game with a city theme. How about a 2.0 treasure hunt? Thanks to the World City Trail app, set off from the Gothic Church of St-Martin and explore Colmar through puzzles and brainteasers. Your aim is simple: solve all sorts of riddles scattered around the city’s narrow cobbled streets to escape. Available on smartphones, these games let you have fun at your own pace and without constraints, since you’re the only one in charge!
Among other things, you can discover :
Finally, the Place des Maraîchers can be particularly romantic, with its pretty little woods, gardens and large expanses of meadows. This green setting is the perfect place to recharge your batteries, far from the sometimes noisy tourist trails.
A guided tour of Colmar is the perfect way to immerse yourself in its rich medieval history. Take in monuments such as the churches in the St-Joseph and St-Léon districts, and you’ll discover that Vieux-Colmar is brimming with architectural nuggets. You’ll also be impressed by the exceptional building of the Collégiale St-Martin. The latter is surrounded by a newly refurbished square, now home to the Musée du Chocolat – Choco-Story and the Musée des Vins d’Alsace.
Last but not least, it’s not just the historic monuments that are vestiges of the past. There are a multitude of houses that offer a glimpse of what life was like in medieval times. In fact, some of them are listed as Unesco World Heritage Sites, no less!
Among the must-do activities in Colmar, we have to mention the museums. Here are a few of our favorite museums, sure to delight your eyes and taste buds!
Choco Story – the Chocolate Museum
Do you love chocolate in all its forms? Then the Choco-story museum is for you. Young and old are sure to find something to satisfy their sweet tooth, thanks to tastings of this endlessly versatile confection.
For example, you can see chocolate sculptures several meters high, take part in workshops to make your own chocolate, or take part in a virtual demonstration by three Meilleurs Ouvriers de France chocolatiers. What’s more, thanks to a fun and comprehensive audio guide, you’ll learn some of the best-kept secrets of France’s greatest chocolatiers.
This immersive experience in the making of chocolate through time is to be enjoyed without moderation!
The Colmar Wine Museum
Through interactive activities and tastings, come and discover the trades involved in making Alsace grands crus. You’ll be able to try out a wide range of activities based on the different professions involved in viticulture, and discover the special features of the wine route! Digital activities include grape picking and crushing, and bike rides through hectares of vineyards.
In addition, the Musée des Vins de Colmar unveils the Klipfel family collection. These relics of the past guarantee an authentic testimony to the golden age of Alsace’s vineyards.
Perfect for a moment with friends or family, learn together the secrets of wine-making while having fun!
12 place de la Cathédrale
68000 Colmar
+33 (0)9 88 99 44 30