Charming Colmar: Self-Guided Walk through La Petite Venise

Soak up Alsatian heritage in this quaint French-German town’s medieval streets. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this self-guided tour of Colmar. Colmar is just as pretty as its big sister Strasbourg and maybe even more quaint. On this walking tour through the medieval centre, known as Little Venice (“La Petite Venise de Colmar”), you’ll get plenty of opportunities to take in its historic beauty because of its many canals. While you walk, I’ll tell you about Colmar’s interesting past, during which Germany and France took turns shaping the city’s culture. Today, the Alsace region, part French and part German, has developed its traditions and specialities. I’ll give you plenty of ideas on where to stop for coffee, beer, crêpes, flammkuchen or other yummy snacks. You’ll also stroll through the Quartier des Tanneurs, the tanners’ district, and past Ancienne Douane, a pretty square lined with historic homes.

1. 1

   Musee Unterlinden

   Pass by

   Start your tour at the Unterlinden Museum, Colmar's most important museum, which houses a rich collection of art and artifacts, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Pass the Dominican Church, one of Colmar's most important churches, known for its impressive Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   See the Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar, a stunning example of Gothic architecture with a famous sundial on its facade that can tell you the month.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   Discover the Schwendi Fountain, created by Bartholdi, the sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty, and learn about the historical significance of the figure it depicts.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Walk through Ancienne Douane, a picturesque square lined with historic homes, offering a glimpse into Colmar's medieval past.

6. 6

   Stop 6

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   Stroll through the Quartier des Tanneurs, the tanners’ district, known for its charming, well-preserved half-timbered houses.

7. 7

   Stop 7

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   Wander along La Petite Venise, the beautiful La Lauch Canal with its colorful houses, and enjoy the opportunity to take a boat ride.

8. 8

   Marche Couvert

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   Explore the Marché Couvert Colmar, a fascinating Market Hall where you can try Alsatian specialties and local delicacies.

9. 9

   Maison Schongauer

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   Appreciate the historic Maison Schongauer, one of Colmar's most beautiful old homes, which was once the residence of the famous painter Martin Schongauer.

10. 10

    Fontaine Roesselmann

    Pass by

    See the Fontaine Roesselmann, another work by Bartholdi, depicting a 13th-century mayor of Colmar who defended the city against its enemies.

11. 11

    Musee Bartholdi

    Pass by

    End your tour at the Musée Bartholdi, dedicated to the life and works of the sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, including models and sketches of his famous creations.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Suitable for adults and children

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.