Top Reasons Why Colmar, France Should Be on Every Traveler’s Bucket List

 

Tucked away in the northeastern part of France, in the Alsace region, is Colmar—a peaceful, colorful town that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty.

I haven’t been there yet, but after seeing the photos and reading about it, I immediately added Colmar to my travel bucket list—and once you hear more, you’ll probably want to add it to yours too.

What makes the town extra special is how beautifully preserved everything is—it’s like stepping into history, but with a vibrant atmosphere that makes everything feel full of life.

As you explore Colmar, you’ll come across one of its most picturesque areas: Little Venice. True to its name, this enchanting place is filled with colorful buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés that spill onto the cobbled streets.

Little Venice is one of the best-preserved medieval districts in Colmar

Cool fact: Colmar is the birthplace of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi—the guy who sculpted the Statue of Liberty. Yep, beneath all that charm and beauty lies a rich, fascinating history.

Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty, was born in Colmar

And of course, no visit to Colmar would be complete without diving into the local food scene. Nestled in the heart of Alsace, a region famous for its delicious cuisine and exceptional wines, Colmar serves up everything from buttery tarts to hearty dishes with a delightful German-French twist. If you’re a fan of great food and even better wine, you’ll feel right at home here.

Things to do in Colmar 

1. Visit one of the city's museums 

Skipping the museums in Colmar is like missing out on the heart of the town—each one offers a glimpse into the town's history, art, and culture. These museums give you a better understanding of Colmar’s rich heritage and what makes it unique. Here are a few you won’t want to miss: 

Colmar Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet)

Colmar Toy Museum 

The moment you walk into the Toy Museum, childhood memories you thought were long gone come rushing back. This enchanting museum is housed inside an old cinema (how cool is that?), and the second you step in, it’s like being transported to the past. Think of it as hitting rewind on your entire childhood.

The museum’s collection is packed with toys and games that span generations — from delicate 19th-century porcelain dolls to the plastic dolls we obsessed over in the ‘90s. Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself saying, “I had that toy!” more than once.

And then there’s the train setup — not just a couple of trains on a shelf, but full-blown miniature worlds. Tiny towns, winding tracks, little mountains and tunnels — all laid out in perfect detail. You can even control a few of them, which is honestly way more fun than you’d expect.

As if that’s not enough, there's a goldmine of classic toys that will take you right back to your childhood: board games, stuffed animals, mechanical toys — the kind that make you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are.

The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events— from toy-making workshops to themed displays and more. So even if you’ve been there before, there’s always something new and exciting to check out.

Musée Bartholdi

Musée Bartholdi

Located in the birthplace of sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the Bartholdi Museum was established in 1922 to honour his legacy.

The museum gives visitors a personal look into the life of the famous sculptor, showcasing family furniture, personal mementos, and a stunning collection of models, drawings, paintings, engravings, and photographs. It's the perfect place to uncover the artist’s journey and admire his masterpieces up close. 

Pfister House  (Maison Pfister)

Pfister House 

The Pfister House was built in 1537 for the hatter Ludwig Scherer who made his fortune trading in the Val de Liepvre. Despite its medieval charm, it’s actually the first example of architectural renaissance in the city. With its two-story corner window, charming wooden balcony, distinctive round tower, and beautiful mural paintings depicting both biblical and everyday scenes, the Pfister House has become one of Colmar’s most iconic landmarks. 

2. Take a boat trip

Boat trips in Colmar are the perfect way to discover the area’s charm. You’ll cruise past beautiful half-timbered houses and be immersed in the serene atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery. The narrow, flower-filled streets only add to the town’s captivating beauty, leaving you with a truly unforgettable experience

3. See a replica of the Statue of Liberty 

This replica of the Statue of Liberty stands proudly in a roundabout just within the city limits of Colmar, France

This 12-meter-high replica of the Statue of Liberty was sculpted to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of Auguste Bartholdi, the artist behind the original Statue of Liberty.

To mark the anniversary, the Municipality of Colmar decided to install the statue at the northern entrance to the town, paying tribute to the city’s most celebrated artist and his most iconic masterpiece. 

4. Wine tasting 

Recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Colmar stands out for its historic monuments and its deep connection to Alsace’s finest wines.

Nestled right in the heart of the Wine Route, this picturesque town gives visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to dive into the world of Alsatian wine. As you stroll through the town's charming streets, you’ll discover numerous cellars and wineries, each offering an opportunity to sample exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region. 

5. Visit Little Venice 

Little Venice transforms into a fairytale wonderland during the Christmas season

When most people think of Colmar, the image of Little Venice is what usually comes to mind. It's one of the most photographed parts of the town. With its romantic and captivating setting, it’s impossible not to fall in love with this place. No matter the season, Little Venice always has something special to offer. In spring, it’s a blooming floral paradise, while in winter, it turns into a magical Christmas wonderland. 

Foods to try in Colmar

1. Bretzel

This is a baked pastry, typically twisted into a knot-like shape, known for its distinctive appearance and often salty taste

2. Flammekueche

This is a very thin pizza-like dough, often served in a rectangular shape, garnished with thinly sliced onion and lardons over a layer of fresh cream

3. Berawecka 

This is a traditional Alsatian cake made with dried and candied fruits. It is typically prepared around Christmas

Author bio: Zaituni Amir is a writer who loves all things travel—exploring new destinations, sharing useful tips, and highlighting places worth visiting. Through her writing, she shares detailed guides and practical advice to help readers travel smarter. If it involves travel, she’s either writing about it or finding an excuse to book another trip.