3-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Colmar, France
Colmar, France
3 days
About Colmar, France
Experience the enchanting beauty of Colmar, France, a picturesque town that perfectly encapsulates the charm of Alsace. Known as the "Little Venice," Colmar boasts a rich historical heritage with its well-preserved old town, half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings. Wander through the cobblestone streets, explore the vibrant markets, or take a boat ride along the canal for a unique perspective of the town. Visit the Unterlinden Museum, home to the Isenheim Altarpiece, and the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the creator of the Statue of Liberty. With its renowned vineyards, Colmar is also a paradise for wine lovers. Don't miss the chance to taste the local Alsace wines. Colmar is not just a destination; it's a journey back in time.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Musée Bartholdi and Old Town Tour
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Musée Bartholdi, dedicated to the life and work of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'coq au Riesling', a chicken dish cooked in Riesling wine, a specialty of the region.
Afternoon
Take a guided tour of the 'Old Town', exploring its well-preserved medieval and early Renaissance buildings, and the famous Maison Pfister.
Dinner
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try 'munster', a soft cheese produced in the region, served with potatoes and ham.
Evening
Visit the Colmar Christmas Market again, this time focusing on the food stalls. Try 'vin chaud' (mulled wine) and 'bredele' (traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies).
Day 3
Musée du Jouet and Eglise Saint-Martin
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Musée du Jouet, a toy museum that will delight both children and adults with its collection of toys from the 19th century to the present.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try 'matelote', a fish stew made with Riesling wine.
Afternoon
Visit Eglise Saint-Martin, the largest and most important church in Colmar, known for its impressive Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Dinner
Enjoy your last dinner in Colmar at a local restaurant. Try 'kugelhopf', a traditional Alsatian cake, for dessert.
Evening
End your visit to Colmar with a leisurely stroll around the 'Old Town', enjoying the festive atmosphere and the beautifully illuminated buildings.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Colmar Christmas Market
The Colmar Christmas Market is a must-visit during the holiday season. It offers a variety of Christmas goods, local delicacies, and a festive atmosphere that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
2Musée Unterlinden
Musée Unterlinden is a museum located in Colmar, France, in the Alsace region. The museum, housed in a 13th-century Dominican religious sisters' convent and a modernist wing, is home to the Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald and features a large collection of local and international artworks and manufactured artifacts from prehistorical to contemporary times.
3Petite Venise
Petite Venise, or Little Venice, is a picturesque neighborhood in Colmar known for its canals, half-timbered houses, and charming atmosphere. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or photography.
4Musée Bartholdi
Musée Bartholdi is a museum located in the city of Colmar, in the Alsace region of France. The museum is dedicated to the life and work of sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, who is best known for designing the Statue of Liberty.
5Maison Pfister
Maison Pfister is a historic house located in Colmar, France. Built in 1537, the house is known for its ornate exterior, wooden gallery, and frescoes. It is one of the most iconic buildings in Colmar.
6Musée du Jouet
Musée du Jouet is a museum located in Colmar, France. The museum is dedicated to toys and childhood memories, featuring a collection of over 2,000 toys dating from the 19th century to the present.
7Eglise Saint-Martin
Eglise Saint-Martin is a church located in Colmar, France. The church, built in the Gothic style, is known for its impressive stained glass windows and is one of the largest and most important churches in the Haut-Rhin department.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Choucroute Garnie
A popular dish in Colmar, it is a hearty meal made of sauerkraut, sausages, and other salted meats.
Tarte Flambée
Also known as Flammekueche, it's a thin crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. It's a must-try in Colmar.
Coq au Riesling
A local variation of the famous Coq au Vin, this dish is made with Riesling wine, a popular wine in the Alsace region where Colmar is located.
Baeckeoffe
A traditional Alsatian dish, Baeckeoffe is a slow-cooked casserole containing meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
Kougelhopf
A famous Alsatian dessert, Kougelhopf is a yeast-based cake, often containing dried fruits and nuts, and shaped in a distinctive circular bundt mold.
Munster Cheese
Named after a small town in Alsace, Munster cheese is a soft washed-rind cheese made from milk produced by cows living in the regions between Alsace, Lorraine, and Franche-Comté in France.
Alsatian Wine
Alsace, where Colmar is located, is famous for its wines. Varieties to try include Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
Mirabelle Plum Tart
A popular dessert in Colmar, this tart is made with mirabelle plums, a fruit that is abundant in the region.
Quiche Lorraine
A classic French dish, Quiche Lorraine originates from the border region of Alsace and Lorraine. It's a savory pie filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables.
Escargots à l'Alsacienne
A local delicacy, these are snails cooked in a sauce of white wine, garlic, parsley, and shallots.
Riesling Soup
A traditional soup made with Riesling wine, cream, and often garnished with mushrooms or other vegetables.
Beer from Alsace
Alsace is the largest beer-producing region in France. Be sure to try some local brews while in Colmar.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Colmar, France is from late spring to early fall, specifically from May to October. During this period, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The town is especially beautiful in July when the flowers are in full bloom. However, if you enjoy Christmas markets, December would be a great time to visit as Colmar hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 8 | Wed | WWII Victory Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
July 14 | Sun | Bastille Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Armistice Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Walk
Colmar is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance from each other. It's a beautiful town with well-preserved buildings and charming streets, so walking is a pleasant and convenient way to get around.
Bicycle
Colmar is a bike-friendly town, with many bike rental shops and bike paths. It's a quick and eco-friendly way to get around, and allows you to see more of the town than you would on foot.
Car
If you're planning to visit the surrounding areas of Colmar, renting a car might be a good option. However, parking can be difficult in the town center, and many streets are pedestrian-only.
Public Bus
Colmar's public bus system, TRACE, operates several lines that cover the town and its surrounding areas. It's a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're planning to visit places outside the town center.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Colmar, although they might not be the most cost-effective option for short distances within the town. They can be a good option if you're carrying heavy luggage or if you're traveling in a group.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Colmar. They can be a convenient option, especially if you're not familiar with the town or if you're traveling at night.
Train
Colmar's train station connects the town to other major cities in France and Europe. It's a good option if you're planning to visit other places during your stay in Colmar.
Boat
Colmar is crossed by several canals, and boat tours are a popular way to see the town. These tours usually include a guide who provides information about the town's history and landmarks.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Colmar, France as a first time visitor
1
Colmar is located in the Alsace region of France, near the border with Germany.
2
The city is known for its well-preserved old town, its numerous architectural landmarks, and its museums.
3
The official language is French, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
4
The local currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.
5
Colmar has a semi-continental climate, with warm to hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from 32-45°F (0-7°C) in winter to 59-79°F (15-26°C) in summer.
6
Tipping is customary in Colmar, as in the rest of France. A service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but it's common to leave small change.
7
Public transportation in Colmar is reliable and efficient. The city is also very walkable, especially the old town.
8
Colmar is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
9
The city is known for its wines, especially Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Consider visiting a local winery or wine bar.
10
Local specialties include tarte flambée (a type of thin-crust pizza), choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with meats), and baeckeoffe (a meat and potato stew).
11
Colmar is generally safe, but as in any tourist destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
12
The city has a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Colmar Wine Fair in summer and the Christmas Markets in winter.
13
Shops in Colmar typically open around 9 or 10am and close around 7pm. Many smaller shops close for a few hours in the afternoon.
14
Pharmacies in France are the only places where you can buy over-the-counter medication. Look for a green cross sign.
15
The standard voltage in France is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type E.
16
Tap water is safe to drink in Colmar, and bottled water is widely available.
17
If you need medical assistance, dial 112 for the European emergency number. For non-emergencies, dial 15 for medical help or 18 for the fire department.
18
Colmar is a great base for exploring the Alsace region, including the Route des Vins d'Alsace (Alsace Wine Route) and the Vosges Mountains.
19
The city is pedestrian-friendly, but if you plan to explore the surrounding region, consider renting a car.
20
Remember to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to say 'bonjour' (good day) when entering shops and 'au revoir' (goodbye) when leaving.
Basic French to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bonjour | bohn-zhoor | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Au revoir | oh reh-vwahr | Saying farewell |
Please | S'il vous plaît | see voo play | Making a request |
Thank you | Merci | mehr-see | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Oui | wee | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Non | nohn | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-koo-zay mwah | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Je suis désolé | zhuh swee deh-soh-leh | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | par-leh voo ahn-gleh | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | zhuh nuh kohn-prahn pah | Expressing confusion |
Where is...? | Où est...? | oo eh | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Toilettes | twah-let | Asking for the restroom |
Help | Aide | ed | In case of emergency |
Call the police | Appelez la police | ah-peh-leh la po-lease | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Je suis perdu | zhuh swee pehr-doo | When you're lost |
How much does it cost? | Combien ça coûte? | kohn-byehn sah koot | Asking for the price |
Can I have the menu, please? | Puis-je avoir le menu, s'il vous plaît? | pwee-zhuh ah-vwahr leh meh-noo, see voo play | At a restaurant |
I would like... | Je voudrais... | zhuh voo-dreh | Making a request |
Water | Eau | oh | Asking for water |
Cheers | Santé | sahn-teh | Making a toast |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Sweater or Jacket
Sleepwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear (if applicable)
Hat/Cap
Sunglasses
Scarf (for cooler evenings)
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo and Conditioner
Body wash or Soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Lotion
Sunscreen
Makeup (if applicable)
Makeup remover (if applicable)
Hairbrush or Comb
Prescription Medications
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's License/ID
Credit and Debit Cards
Cash and Coins
Travel Insurance Documents
Hotel and/or Car Rental Reservations
Emergency Contacts and Addresses
Maps and Guidebooks
French Phrasebook
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for Smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for Camera
Universal Travel Adapter
Portable Power Bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel Pillow
Earplugs
Eye Mask
Snacks
Water Bottle
Books or Kindle for Reading
Travel-size Laundry Detergent
Ziplock Bags
Tissues
Hand Sanitizer
First Aid Kit
Weather Conditions
Colmar, France, is known for its relatively dry and temperate climate. The city experiences four distinct seasons, each offering a unique charm to the visitors. Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Colmar, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beautiful gardens and vineyards. However, it's always wise to carry a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Summer (June to August) in Colmar is warm and sunny, with temperatures typically between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It's a great time for sightseeing, wine tasting, and enjoying the city's outdoor cafes. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Autumn (September to November) brings a cooler climate, with temperatures dropping to between 45°F and 65°F (7°C to 18°C). This season is particularly picturesque as the vineyards turn into a riot of colors. Pack some warm clothing and enjoy the wine harvest season and autumn festivals. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Colmar, with temperatures often dropping to around 32°F (0°C). However, the city's Christmas markets make it a magical time to visit. Be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriately. Also, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to pack layers to accommodate varying temperatures and conditions. Enjoy your visit to Colmar!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 6° / -1° | January is the coldest month in Colmar, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and don't mind the cold. |
February | 8° / 0° | February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. The city is less crowded, making it a good time for peaceful exploration. |
March | 13° / 3° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. The city starts to bloom, offering beautiful scenery. |
April | 16° / 6° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city. |
May | 20° / 10° | May offers warm temperatures and is the start of the peak tourist season. Expect more crowds, but also more events and activities. |
June | 23° / 13° | June is one of the warmest months, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. The city is lively with various summer events. |
July | 25° / 15° | July is the hottest month in Colmar, with temperatures reaching up to 25°C. It's a great time to enjoy the city's outdoor cafes and wine tours. |
August | 25° / 15° | August is equally hot as July, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities. |
September | 21° / 11° | September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to cool. The city is less crowded, making it a good time for peaceful exploration. |
October | 17° / 7° | October is a cool month with beautiful autumn scenery. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and outdoor spaces. |
November | 11° / 3° | November is a chilly month with fewer tourists. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. |
December | 8° / 0° | December is a cold month, but the city is beautifully decorated for Christmas. It's a great time to visit for the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere. |
Did you know?
Places near by Colmar, France
Strasbourg
Known for its stunning cathedral and beautiful old town, Strasbourg is a must-visit city near Colmar.
Freiburg
A charming German city known for its medieval minster and vibrant squares.
Basel
A Swiss city known for its vibrant cultural scene, particularly in art and music.
Mulhouse
Known for its car and train museums, Mulhouse is a city of vibrant cultural heritage.
Baden-Baden
A spa town in Germany's Black Forest with thermal baths and a casino.
Zurich
The largest city in Switzerland, known for its well-preserved medieval old town and vibrant nightlife.
Stuttgart
Known for its automotive museums, Stuttgart is a city with a rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Lucerne
A Swiss city on Lake Lucerne, known for its preserved medieval architecture.
