Discover the Little Venice of Europe
A Walk Through Colmar’s Fairytale Streets
Walking through Colmar feels like stepping into a storybook.
Every corner of this town seems designed to enchant visitors, offering something unique that’s hard to find in Italy. I couldn’t stop staring at the half-timbered houses, their exposed wooden beams and pastel-colored facades looking like they belonged in a painting. Each house seemed to have its own personality, balconies overflowing with flowers that spilled over cobblestone streets.
But Colmar isn’t just a feast for the eyes.
The Alsatian culture, a perfect blend of French and German influences, shows itself in every detail—even on your plate. I stopped at a small café overlooking a quiet square and tried a tarte flambée. The flavors were simple, yet so unique, and I realized that food here tells a story as rich as the architecture. For anyone with a sweet tooth, Alsace is pure magic: macarons, éclairs, and countless other treats make you feel like you’ve wandered straight into a dessert lover’s paradise.
Colmar: A Fairytale Town in Alsace
What truly captivated me was the “Petite Venise” neighborhood, a small area crisscrossed by canals. It’s true, Italy has Venice, but Colmar’s version offers a different kind of intimacy. Here, everything feels cozy, serene, almost frozen in time. The colorful buildings reflecting in the still water create a romantic atmosphere that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
During your visit to Colmar, make sure to also check out these must-see spots:
- La Maison des Têtes
- La Maison Pfister
- The Collegiate Church of Saint-Martin
- The Toy Museum of Colmar
- The Chocolate Museum
And the fountain Schewndi is said to have inspired Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.
Day Trips from Colmar: Charming Villages and Vineyards
A day is more than enough to explore Colmar, and even half a day can give you a good sense of its charm. But if you have extra time, don’t stop here—explore the nearby villages:
- Riquewihr
- Kaysersberg
- Ribeauvillé
- Strasbourg (just a 40-minute drive)
These villages are not only famous for their fairytale-like streets but also for their incredible wines.
Surrounded by sprawling vineyards, they form part of the iconic Route des Vins d’Alsace (Alsace Wine Route), making this area a dream destination for wine lovers and anyone who enjoys stunning landscapes.
Another aspect that makes Colmar so special is its Christmas spirit. I was lucky enough to visit during the holiday season, and I must admit, the atmosphere left me speechless. The lights illuminating the city, the decorations on the houses, and the air filled with the scent of spices made me feel like I was in an ideal Christmas village—the kind you imagine when reading childhood stories.
Colmar made me feel like I was discovering something entirely new—a hidden gem of Europe where everything seems designed to surprise. If you’re looking for a place that will amaze you with details you won’t find anywhere else, then Colmar deserves to be at the top of your list.
