Our guide on the most common Mistakes to Avoid in Colmar and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Colmar, the picturesque town in the Alsace region of France, is a fairytale destination known for its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and beautiful canals. It feels like stepping into a postcard, especially when adorned with flowers in the spring and summer or illuminated by Christmas lights in winter.
However, to fully enjoy its charm and avoid common pitfalls, here’s a guide on mistakes to avoid in Colmar and how to make the most of your trip.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and culture of Colmar. Enjoy your time exploring this enchanting town and its picturesque surroundings!
Read here Common Mistakes to avoid in France, France Sim Card for Tourists and 28 Things to Know Before Visiting France
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Mistakes to Avoid in Colmar
1. Only Visiting Colmar as a Day Trip
Mistake: Many travelers visit Colmar as a quick day trip from nearby cities like Strasbourg, missing out on its magical ambiance when the day-trippers leave.
How to Avoid:
Stay Overnight: Spend at least one night in Colmar to experience the town’s true charm without the midday crowds. Early mornings and evenings are especially beautiful, as the town is quieter and more serene.
Enjoy the Evening Atmosphere: Stroll along the canals in La Petite Venise (Little Venice) in the evening when the lights reflect off the water, or enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant.
Tip: Book your accommodations early, especially during peak seasons like summer and Christmas, as Colmar’s hotels and guesthouses can fill up quickly.
2. Not Booking Accommodations in the Historic Center
Mistake: Staying too far outside the town center to save a little on accommodations, which means missing the convenience and beauty of staying in the heart of Colmar.
How to Avoid:
Stay in the Old Town: Choose a hotel or guesthouse within the historic center so you can easily explore the main sights on foot and soak in the town’s atmosphere.
Consider Charming Guesthouses: Many of the most charming places to stay are small family-run guesthouses in half-timbered buildings, offering a unique experience.
Tip: Look for lodging in La Petite Venise or near Place de la Cathédrale for the best views and accessibility.
3. Not Planning for Seasonal Events
Mistake: Visiting Colmar without considering its seasonal events, which can either enhance or complicate your trip depending on the time of year.
How to Avoid:
Visit During the Christmas Markets (Late November to December): Colmar’s Christmas markets are among the best in France, with beautifully decorated stalls, festive lights, and delicious seasonal treats. However, this period can be crowded and expensive.
Check for Wine Festivals: The Alsace region is famous for its wines, and Colmar hosts wine fairs and events throughout the year, such as the Foire aux Vins d’Alsace in August.
Spring and Summer: If you visit in spring or summer, plan to see Colmar’s flower-adorned streets and enjoy outdoor dining along the canals.
Tip: If visiting during a major event like the Christmas markets, book hotels and activities well in advance.
4. Underestimating the Size of the Old Town
Mistake: Assuming Colmar is very small and rushing through the town without allowing enough time to appreciate its hidden gems and beautiful streets.
How to Avoid:
Allocate at Least a Full Day: To explore Colmar’s picturesque streets, museums, and historic buildings, plan for at least one full day. If possible, two days will allow for a more relaxed visit.
Get Lost on Purpose: Wander the back streets off the main tourist paths to discover quiet squares, less crowded cafés, and beautiful hidden courtyards.
Tip: Colmar is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, so don’t rush from one sight to the next. Take time to savor a coffee in a charming square or a glass of local wine at an outdoor café.
5. Eating at Tourist-Trap Restaurants
Mistake: Falling into the trap of eating at tourist-oriented restaurants along the main streets, which can be overpriced and lack authentic flavors.
How to Avoid:
Do Your Research: Look for recommendations and reviews of local restaurants before choosing where to eat. Avoid places with menus in multiple languages or touts trying to lure you in.
Try Local Alsatian Cuisine: Look for restaurants offering traditional Alsatian dishes such as choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages and meats), flammekueche (a thin pizza-like tart with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon), and bäckeoffe (a hearty meat and potato stew).
Tip: Some excellent, lesser-known restaurants can be found in the quieter streets behind the main square. Reservations are recommended for popular spots, especially in high season.
6. Overlooking the Unique Museums
Mistake: Focusing only on Colmar’s beautiful streets and canals without visiting its fascinating museums.
How to Avoid:
Visit the Unterlinden Museum: Home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, this museum also has a remarkable collection of Renaissance and medieval art.
See the Bartholdi Museum: Dedicated to Auguste Bartholdi, the designer of the Statue of Liberty, the museum provides a fascinating insight into his life and works.
Explore the Toy Museum: A delightful stop for families or anyone with a sense of nostalgia, showcasing vintage toys and games.
Tip: Purchase a Colmar City Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums. It offers discounts and priority entry.
7. Skipping the Nearby Alsace Villages
Mistake: Only exploring Colmar and missing out on the charming villages of the Alsace Wine Route, which are some of the most picturesque in Europe.
How to Avoid:
Day Trip to Eguisheim and Riquewihr: Just a short drive or bike ride from Colmar, these villages offer beautiful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and excellent wine-tasting opportunities.
Take the Alsace Wine Route: Rent a car or join a tour to visit several of the region’s charming wine-producing villages, such as Kaysersberg, Turckheim, and Hunawihr.
Enjoy Wine Tastings: The Alsace region is known for its white wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Visit local wineries for tastings.
Tip: If you prefer not to drive, consider booking a guided wine tour or using public transport to visit nearby villages.
8. Not Booking a Canal Boat Tour in Advance
Mistake: Assuming you can simply show up for a canal boat tour without a reservation, especially during peak season.
How to Avoid:
Reserve Your Canal Tour Online: Book your canal tour in advance to secure your spot, particularly in the summer months when tours fill up quickly.
Choose a Morning or Evening Slot: For the best lighting and fewer crowds, opt for a morning or late afternoon tour.
Tip: Consider a private boat tour if you want a more intimate experience or are traveling with a small group.
9. Neglecting to Try the Local Wines
Mistake: Visiting Colmar, the heart of the Alsace Wine Region, without tasting the region’s famous wines.
How to Avoid:
Visit a Local Winery: Many wineries around Colmar offer guided tours and tastings. Try the region’s signature white wines like Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer.
Explore Colmar’s Wine Bars: If you don’t have time to visit a vineyard, head to one of Colmar’s cozy wine bars like Le Cercle des Arômes to sample a variety of local wines.
Attend a Wine Festival: If you’re visiting in summer, check for local wine festivals in Colmar or nearby villages.
Tip: Buy a few bottles to take home, as Alsace wines can be harder to find outside of the region.
10. Ignoring Seasonal Decorations and Displays
Mistake: Missing the unique seasonal charm of Colmar by not visiting during a special time of year.
How to Avoid:
Visit During Christmas: Colmar is famous for its beautiful Christmas markets and festive decorations. The entire town turns into a winter wonderland from late November to December.
Check for Flower Festivals: In spring and summer, Colmar’s streets and houses are adorned with vibrant flowers, especially in La Petite Venise.
Fall Colors: The vineyards and surrounding countryside are stunning in autumn, making it a perfect time for photography and wine tasting.
Tip: Each season offers a different experience, so plan your visit based on what appeals most to you.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.