48 Hours in Colmar, France: A Charming Journey Through Alsace’s Gem

Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is a picturesque town that seems to have leapt straight out of a fairytale. With its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and rich culinary heritage, Colmar offers travelers a delightful blend of history, beauty, and gastronomy. If you’re planning a weekend getaway, this 48-hour guide will help you make the most of your time in this enchanting French destination.

Day 1: Morning – Exploring the Old Town

Begin your Colmar adventure by immersing yourself in the town’s historic charm. Start your day early with a stroll through the Old Town, where you’ll find yourself transported back in time. The narrow cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses painted in pastel hues create a magical atmosphere that’s uniquely Colmar.

Make your way to the iconic Little Venice (La Petite Venise), a picturesque neighborhood where colorful houses seem to rise directly from the calm waters of the Lauch River. Take a leisurely boat ride to admire the stunning architecture from a different perspective and learn about the area’s history from knowledgeable local guides.

Day 1: Afternoon – Cultural Immersion

After lunch at one of the charming riverside cafes, dedicate your afternoon to exploring Colmar’s rich cultural heritage. Visit the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent. This museum is home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, along with an impressive collection of medieval, Renaissance, and modern art.

Next, make your way to the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty. Learn about the artist’s life and see scale models of his most famous works, including the Statue of Liberty.

Day 1: Evening – Culinary Delights

As the day winds down, treat yourself to an authentic Alsatian dining experience. Colmar is known for its excellent cuisine, which blends French and German influences. Look for traditional winstubs (wine taverns) where you can savor local specialties like choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with various meats), tarte flambée (a thin-crust pizza-like dish), or coq au Riesling (chicken cooked in white wine).

Pair your meal with a glass of local Alsatian wine. The region is famous for its crisp white wines, particularly Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Many restaurants offer wine tastings, allowing you to sample a variety of local vintages.

Day 2: Morning – Market Visit and Culinary Workshop

Start your second day by visiting the vibrant covered market, Marché Couvert. This 19th-century market hall is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of local products, from fresh produce and cheeses to traditional Alsatian specialties. Engage with local vendors, sample regional delicacies, and pick up some edible souvenirs to take home.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culinary culture, consider taking a cooking class. Many local chefs offer workshops where you can learn to prepare traditional Alsatian dishes. It’s a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience and take a piece of Colmar’s culinary heritage home with you.

Day 2: Afternoon – Exploring Beyond the Old Town

After your culinary adventure, venture beyond the Old Town to discover more of Colmar’s charms. Visit the Parc du Champ de Mars, a beautiful green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with the goodies you picked up at the market.

Next, make your way to the Église Saint-Martin, also known as Colmar Cathedral. This impressive Gothic church dates back to the 13th century and boasts stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Colmar and the surrounding Alsatian countryside.

Day 2: Evening – Wine Tasting and Sunset Views

No visit to Colmar would be complete without exploring the famous Alsace Wine Route. While you may not have time for a full tour, you can still experience the region’s renowned wines right in town. Visit one of Colmar’s many wine cellars or tasting rooms for a guided tasting of local wines.

As the sun begins to set, head to the Champ de Mars park or find a cozy spot along the canal in Little Venice to watch the town transform in the golden hour light. The pastel-colored houses take on a warm glow, creating a truly magical atmosphere that’s perfect for your last evening in Colmar.

Getting Around Colmar

Colmar is a compact town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to cover more ground or give your feet a rest, consider these options:

• Rent a bike: Colmar is bike-friendly, and cycling is a great way to explore the town and its surroundings.
• Take the tourist train: A small train offers guided tours of the Old Town, providing commentary on the main sights.
• Use public transportation: Colmar has a reliable bus system that can take you to attractions outside the town center.

Where to Stay

Colmar offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

• For a luxurious stay, consider the La Maison des Têtes, a historic 5-star hotel in the heart of the Old Town.
• Mid-range options include charming boutique hotels like Hotel Le Colombier or Hotel Le Maréchal.
• Budget-conscious travelers can find comfortable guesthouses and B&Bs in and around the town center.

Conclusion: A Timeless Experience in Colmar

Forty-eight hours in Colmar offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. From wandering through its picturesque streets and exploring world-class museums to indulging in local wines and traditional Alsatian cuisine, Colmar provides a uniquely charming experience that will leave you enchanted and longing to return.

As you bid farewell to this fairytale town, you’ll take with you not just memories of its stunning architecture and rich culture, but also a taste of the warm Alsatian hospitality that makes Colmar truly special. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, Colmar promises an unforgettable journey through one of France’s most captivating destinations.

Consider extending your stay to explore more of the Alsace region, including nearby villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim, or venture into the beautiful Vosges Mountains. Whatever you choose, your time in Colmar will surely be the highlight of your Alsatian adventure.