Perfect Weekend in Colmar by Train: Storybook Houses, Wine Routes & Alsace Charm

Colmar is one of France’s most beautiful small towns — colourful half-timbered houses, canals, cobbled streets and a fairy-tale atmosphere. With easy rail links from Strasbourg, Mulhouse and Basel, Colmar is a perfect weekend getaway without a car.

This guide covers what to see, where to eat, Alsatian dishes, where to stay, wine villages and how to arrive smoothly by train.

Why Go?

Colmar looks like it stepped out of an illustrated storybook. The colourful houses, quiet canals and flower-lined streets make it one of Europe’s most photogenic towns. It’s also surrounded by the Alsace Wine Route.

A Bit of History

Colmar has Alsatian, French and German influences, reflected in its architecture and traditions. It thrived on wine trade and craftsmanship, and its historic centre is remarkably well preserved.

What to Expect

Expect charming canals, picture-perfect houses, traditional winstubs (wine taverns) and gentle Alsatian hospitality. Everything is easily walkable.

Five Things to See and Do

Petite Venise

The most photographed part of Colmar — canals, colourful houses and small bridges. Beautiful at any time of day.

Unterlinden Museum

Home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and other important artworks. A top cultural visit.

Maison Pfister & Old Town

Iconic medieval house with wooden galleries and murals. Surrounding streets are full of boutiques and cafes.

Marché Couvert (Covered Market)

Taste local cheeses, breads, pastries and wines. Great for a casual lunch.

Day Trip to Eguisheim or Riquewihr

Both villages are short bus rides away and among the most beautiful on the wine route.

Food Culture

Alsatian cuisine blends French finesse with German heartiness. Expect generous plates, pastries and aromatic wines.

Colmar Food Explained

Tarte Flambée – Thin flatbread with cream, onions and bacon.

Choucroute – Sauerkraut with sausages and meats.

Baeckeoffe – Slow-cooked potato and meat stew.

Kugelhopf – Yeasted cake dusted with sugar.

Gewurztraminer – Spicy, aromatic white wine.

Where to Eat

Wistub de la Petite Venise – Traditional Alsatian dishes.

Restaurant JY’S – Michelin-starred fine dining.

La Soï – Excellent tarte flambée.Covered Market – Great for snacking.

Where to Stay

Hotel Saint-Martin – Charming half-timbered building.

La Maison des Têtes – Historic luxury hotel.

Ibis Styles Colmar Centre – Affordable and central.

Off the Beaten Track

Colmar Toy Museum: Fun, nostalgic and great for a rainy afternoon.

How to Get There by Train

• From Strasbourg: Around 30 mins.

• From Basel: About 45 mins.

• From Mulhouse: Around 25 mins.

Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 1:Wander Petite Venise, visit Maison Pfister, enjoy lunch at the market and explore the old town.

Day 2:Morning at the Unterlinden Museum. Afternoon visit to Eguisheim or Riquewihr. Return for an Alsatian dinner.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.