Old Colmar: a district to discover

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Much more than a simple tourist stop, old Colmar offers a journey back in time to discover Alsatian history and culture. Explore its picturesque alleys, discover its medieval architecture and enjoy its authentic charm!

An unmissable and picturesque walk in the old town

Located in the Krutenau district, old Colmar is a superb historic district. With its pretty cobbled streets, its colorful half-timbered houses and its secular monuments, it perfectly embodies the soul of the region. It can be discovered on foot, by little train or during a boat trip along the Lauch, on the canals of little Venice of Colmar. Taking its name from the famous Italian city, this part of the old town seduces with its enchanting decor made of small bridges and flowered quays, traditional houses by the water and shaded café terraces. Treat yourself to a boat trip on the Lauch and discover Colmar from the water! An unmissable stop in the Colmar city center.

The architectural treasures of Old Colmar

The Middle Ages left superb examples of Gothic architecture in the old town, such as the Saint-Martin collegiate church which dominates the horizon with its slender spiers. A true jewel of medieval architecture, the interior of the cathedral contains a set of richly decorated stained glass windows, an imposing organ and a superb sculpted altarpiece. A real gem of Alsatian Gothic art!

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Your tour of old Colmar will also allow you to discover the buildings of the former customs house (in German Koïfhus), the oldest local public building. Dating from the 14th century, it includes richly decorated gables as well as arcades that once served as a covered market. Indeed, the Koïfhus occupied a strategic location in medieval times, between the rue des Tanneurs, the rue des Marchands and the Grand rue, the main traffic and trade axes of the city. In turn warehouse and imported goods taxation area, meeting place for the deputies of the Décapole, theater and school, this building housed the Chamber of Commerce and Industry for 5 decades.

The district also houses some of the most fascinating Colmar museums, including the famous Unterlinden, a former Dominican convent transformed into a museum dedicated to religion, art and local history. Not far from there, the Pfister house is one of the symbols of old Colmar. This 16th century building has a richly decorated facade, with wood sculptures and murals. It is the first example of architectural renaissance in Colmar.

Discover the flavors and gastronomy of Alsace

Impossible to visit the old town without stopping at the covered market! A true paradise for the taste buds, you can buy a wide variety of local products: cheeses, charcuterie and Alsatian wines. You can also taste the Colmar specialties and the region, such as tarte flambée or kouglof. Moreover, the district is home to some of the best Colmar restaurants. From starter to dessert, including regional dishes based on ultra fresh products (sauerkraut, baeckeoffe, trout with almonds, etc.) you never get tired of the flavors of Alsatian cuisine!

Entertainment and festivities in the old town

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Old Colmar comes alive in all seasons. The Easter and spring markets give the opportunity to enjoy the first rays of the sun in the picturesque setting of the city center. On this occasion, local artisans and creators exhibit their most beautiful creations in the Koifhus buildings. In summer, the café terraces come alive and take advantage of the euphoria of the Colmar wine fair. Finally, in December and January, the magic of the holidays invades the district during the mythical Colmar Christmas market: illuminations, rides, mulled wine and local specialties are in the spotlight, not to be missed if you visit Colmar with family!

Your hotel near old Colmar

Looking for a hotel in Colmar for family vacations, a romantic weekend or a business trip in Alsace? Ideally located near the main roads, the city center, the airport and the Colmar station, our establishments welcome you all year round for a comfortable stay, like at home!

Put your suitcases in a bright room (double or family), modern and spacious, with high-end bedding, private bathroom, flat-screen television, desk area and free and unlimited Wi-Fi connection. Perfect for recharging your batteries after a busy day..

A stone's throw from the Alsace wine route, the Ballons des Vosges natural park and the charming village of Eguisheim, famous for its 3 castles, our hotels in Colmar center and its surroundings allow you to easily access the main tourist and natural sites of the region. And if you are looking for a hotel in Colmar with parking, go to one of our establishments and benefit from a free parking space for the duration of your stay with us!