Petite Venise and Winter Magic
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. During my visit, I was captivated by the architecture: the half-timbered houses, with their exposed wooden beams and pastel-colored facades, look like they belong in a painting. In Colmar, every house has its own character, with balconies overflowing with flowers that adorn the cobblestone streets.
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 this fountain is said to have inspired Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
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.
And then there’s the Alsatian culture, a perfect blend of French and German influences. Even the cuisine tells this story: I tried a tarte flambée at a small café overlooking a square, and I realized how unique the culinary tradition here is. For anyone with a sweet tooth, Alsace is like a dream come true—macarons, éclairs, and so many other treats that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a dessert lover’s paradise!
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.
