Explore the charming town of Colmar with your family on this easy, self-guided walking tour. Discover beautiful historic buildings, colorful canals, lively markets, and delicious local treats-all at a relaxed pace. From medieval churches to quaint streets and scenic boat rides, this itinerary offers a wonderful way to experience the rich culture and welcoming spirit of Alsace. This walk took our family 2.5 hours, including time for shopping, snacks, and lunch breaks.
Our family began the self-guided walking tour at the Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar, built between 1235 and 1365. This Gothic-style church is known for its warm pink Vosges sandstone exterior, giving it a distinctive look.
Just a one-minute walk from the church is Maison Pfister, a prime example of Renaissance architecture built in 1537. It features a two-story corner oriel, an octagonal turret, and colorful murals depicting biblical and everyday scenes. Named after the Pfister family, who restored and lived there from 1841 to 1892, it remains a symbol of Colmar’s heritage.
Stroll down Rue des Marchands with its charming shops to the Koïfhus, or Old Custom House. Built between 1433 and 1480, it is one of Colmar’s oldest public buildings. It served as a warehouse and tax point for goods. Its colorful glazed tile roof with green and maroon patterns makes it a striking medieval landmark. On Easter Sunday, a market sells handmade crafts like painted eggs and carved wood.
Walk through the Koïfhus to the beautiful Schwendi Fountain, then follow Rue des Tanneurs to the Marché Couvert, a 19th-century covered market built in 1865. Located by a canal, it offers fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, and specialties. It’s a great place to explore and taste Alsatian products. Consider grabbing pizza at Magnà Pizza inside. If you have time, the Aire de Jeux playground is close to the market.
Next, stroll to Petite Venise (Little Venice) along the Lauch River. This picturesque area features colorful half-timbered houses, vibrant flowers, and quaint bridges. Once home to wine producers and gardeners, it offers scenic boat rides, narrow cobbled streets, artisan shops, and restaurants serving traditional Alsatian dishes.
Walk along Rue de la Poissonnerie by the canal toward the bridge on Rue Turenne. Enjoy lovely views from the bridge. For a peaceful way to see Little Venise, take a 30-minute flat-bottomed boat ride. By this time, the kids were ready for a break, and this walk gave us a wonderful overview of the city. Nearby restaurants like Les Six Montagnes and Caveau Saint Jean serve great Alsatian food. For delicious croissants, pretzels, and breads, stop by Boulangerie Maison Alexandre, just a short walk away.
We hope this guide provides a delightful experience through Colmar’s history, culture, and flavors.