2 day itinerary for Colmar

Itinerary

Day 1:

Good morning! Colmar is a charming town in the Alsace region of France, known for its picturesque canals, colorful half-timbered houses, and delicious Alsatian cuisine. Let's start our first day with a leisurely stroll through the Old Town.

Morning: Begin your day by exploring the historic center of Colmar. Start at the Place de l'Ancienne Douane, a beautiful square lined with colorful buildings. From there, wander through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning Maison Pfister, a 16th-century house adorned with intricate frescoes.

Next, make your way to the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former Dominican convent. This museum is home to an impressive collection of art, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald. Take your time to explore the various exhibitions and soak in the cultural richness of the region.

Lunch: After a morning of sightseeing, it's time to indulge in some delicious Alsatian cuisine. Head to one of the local restaurants and treat yourself to traditional dishes like choucroute (sauerkraut with sausages and potatoes), tarte flambée (thin crust pizza-like dish), or baeckeoffe (a hearty meat and vegetable stew).

Afternoon: After lunch, take a relaxing boat ride along the canals of Colmar. This will give you a unique perspective of the town and allow you to appreciate its beauty from a different angle. As you glide along the water, you'll pass by charming bridges, flower-filled balconies, and quaint little houses.

Once you're back on land, visit the Bartholdi Museum, dedicated to the famous French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, who designed the Statue of Liberty. The museum showcases his works, including original models and sketches.

Evening: As the day comes to an end, take a leisurely stroll along the Quai de la Poissonnerie, a picturesque street lined with colorful half-timbered houses. This is a great spot to find a cozy restaurant for dinner and enjoy some local wine. End your evening with a relaxing walk through the illuminated streets of Colmar, taking in the magical atmosphere of this enchanting town.

Day 2:

Good morning! Ready for another day of exploring Colmar? Today, we'll focus on the surrounding area and discover the beauty of the Alsatian countryside.

Morning: Start your day by visiting the charming village of Eguisheim, just a short drive from Colmar. This village is known for its circular layout and flower-filled streets. Take a leisurely walk through the narrow alleys, admiring the colorful houses and charming squares. Don't forget to visit the Eguisheim Castle, which offers panoramic views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside.

After exploring Eguisheim, head to the nearby town of Riquewihr. This medieval village is like stepping into a fairytale, with its well-preserved walls, cobblestone streets, and charming shops. Take your time to wander around, visit the local wineries, and sample some of the region's famous wines.

Lunch: For lunch, find a cozy restaurant in Riquewihr and indulge in some more Alsatian specialties. Try the local Munster cheese, paired with a glass of Gewürztraminer or Riesling wine. The combination of flavors is simply divine!

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Alsatian plain. This medieval fortress offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich history. Explore the castle's rooms, climb the towers, and imagine what life was like in the Middle Ages.

On your way back to Colmar, make a stop at one of the local vineyards for a wine tasting. The Alsace region is famous for its white wines, so take the opportunity to sample some of the finest vintages and perhaps even bring a bottle or two home as a souvenir.

Evening: Back in Colmar, spend your evening exploring the charming Petite Venise district. This area is characterized by its canals, lined with colorful houses and charming cafes. Take a romantic boat ride along the canals, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk, soaking in the atmosphere and stopping for a drink or dinner at one of the waterside restaurants.

I hope this itinerary gives you a taste of the beauty and charm of Colmar and its surroundings. Enjoy your time in this enchanting town!