Where to Stay in Colmar: Areas and Hotels

If you're looking for the perfect spot to experience the fairytale of Colmar, the choice is quite straightforward. For romance and postcard-perfect photos, Little Venice (Petite Venise) is the only way to go. If you want to be at the heart of history, with museums and shops on your doorstep, the wider Old Town (Vieille Ville) is the ideal base. For practicality, especially if you're arriving by train or planning excursions to the surrounding villages, the area around the train station combines convenience with quick access to the centre. Finally, if you have a car and budget is your main priority, the northern outskirts offer more affordable solutions, although you'll need transport.

Your choice essentially depends on the type of trip you're taking. Most first-time visitors prefer the ambiance of Little Venice or the central location of the Old Town, as they allow you to experience the city to the fullest, walking everywhere. Staying near the station is a smart move for those who want to explore all of Alsace, using Colmar as their base. As with other fairytale destinations, your accommodation's location largely determines your daily experience, as we describe in our guide to London. If you're interested in seeing other cities in the region, you can check out our guide on where to stay in Alsace for a broader perspective.

Practical Information for Colmar

Colmar is located in the heart of Alsace, in northeastern France, near the borders with Germany and Switzerland. The most convenient way to arrive by air is via EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL), which is approximately 55 kilometres away and served by many European cities, often with low-cost flights. From the airport, you can take the Distribus line 11 bus to Saint-Louis train station and from there a TER train to Colmar, a journey that takes about an hour in total. Another alternative is Strasbourg Airport (SXB), which is about 75 kilometres away. From there, the train to Colmar takes around 30 minutes. If you're travelling from Paris, the TGV high-speed train brings you to Colmar in about 2 hours and 20 minutes, making the journey very comfortable. Finding flights requires a bit of research, so check out our 20 tips for finding cheap flights to find the best possible deal.

Getting around Colmar is extremely easy. The historic centre is almost entirely pedestrianised and small enough to explore comfortably on foot. In fact, walking is the best way to enjoy the picturesque alleyways, hidden courtyards, and decorated houses. For longer distances or to get to places outside the centre, there's the local Trace bus network. A popular tourist option is the small white tourist train (petit train touristique) which does a 40-minute circular route around the main attractions. If you plan to explore the Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d'Alsace) and the surrounding villages, renting a car is the best idea. You can combine your trip with a visit to the neighbouring Black Forest, so our guide to car hire in Germany might be useful.

The best time to visit Colmar depends on what you're looking for. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and wonderful colours in the flowers and vineyards. Summer (July-August) is the warmest period, but also the most touristy. However, its absolute charm unfolds in December, when the city transforms into a Christmas fairytale with six different Christmas markets, decorations, and a unique atmosphere that ranks it among Europe's top winter destinations. Accommodation prices skyrocket during this period, so early booking is essential. A good double room in the centre usually costs from 120 to 250€, but in December, prices can exceed 300-400€ per night. To save money, you can buy the Colmar City Pass which offers free entry to museums and discounts on activities.

Little Venice: for a romantic stay by the canals

Little Venice is undoubtedly Colmar's most photographed and iconic neighbourhood. It gets its name from the canals of the River Lauch that run through it, creating a scene reminiscent of the Italian city, but with a distinct Alsatian touch. The colourful, half-timbered houses with geraniums in the windows are reflected in the calm waters, while small flat-bottomed boats glide slowly, offering a unique perspective of the city. Staying here is ideal for couples, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience the ultimate postcard moment. In the morning the area is quiet, while as the day progresses it fills with life from the restaurants, cafes and visitors. It's the heart of tourist activity, so if you want peace and quiet, it might not be your first choice, but its beauty is unique.

1. Le Maréchal

A historic hotel housed in four connected 16th-century buildings, right on the canal. Its rooms have traditional, romantic décor and many offer wonderful views of Little Venice. It features an excellent gourmet restaurant for a complete Alsatian experience.

• Average cost: 200 to 350 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and honeymoons

2. Reflets Sur La Lauch appartements

A collection of beautiful apartments on Quai de la Poissonnerie, in the heart of Little Venice. They offer the comfort of a home, with a fully equipped kitchen, and combine modern amenities with traditional aesthetics. Ideal for those who want more independence.

• Average cost: 180 to 300 € per night
• Ideal for: families and travellers who want autonomy

3. La stub de la Petite Venise

A charming, small accommodation offering apartments with an authentic Alsatian atmosphere. The wooden panelling and traditional décor transport you to another era, while its location is simply unbeatable, a few steps from the canals and the covered market.

• Average cost: 150 to 250 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and those seeking an authentic experience

Old Town: at the heart of history and culture

The Old Town (Vieille Ville) is the wider historic centre that includes Little Venice but extends much further, encompassing districts such as the Tanner's Quarter (Quartier des Tanneurs) and the Fishmonger's Quay (Quai de la Poissonnerie). Staying here, you're a stone's throw from everything: the famous Unterlinden Museum, St. Martin's Collegiate Church, the House of Heads (Maison des Têtes) and the old customs house Koïfhus. The cobbled streets are full of boutiques, traditional restaurants (winstubs), bakeries, and shops selling local products. It's an area full of life day and night, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the city's history, do their shopping, and have direct access to the main attractions without needing transport. It's the most comprehensive choice for a first visit to Colmar.

4. James Boutique Hôtel Colmar centre

A stylish and modern boutique hotel strategically located between the Old Town and Little Venice. It offers elegant, soundproofed rooms, an excellent breakfast and a warm atmosphere, making it a peaceful oasis after a day of exploring.

• Average cost: 160 to 280 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and travellers who appreciate design

5. Hôtel Quatorze

A design hotel with a minimalist aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with its historic surroundings. Located on a quiet street in the heart of the Old Town, it features a small spa with a sauna and hammam, perfect for relaxing after a busy day.

• Average cost: 170 to 300 € per night
• Ideal for: lovers of modern design and couples

6. Hôtel Le Rapp

A traditional hotel with a warm, family atmosphere, located in an excellent position in the Old Town. Its major advantage is the indoor swimming pool, a rarity for a hotel in central Colmar. Rooms are comfortable and classically decorated.

• Average cost: 140 to 240 € per night
• Ideal for: families and those who want access to a pool

7. Les appartements du Koifhus

These spacious and bright apartments are located right next to the historic Koifhus building, in the most central part of the city. They offer modern décor, all the comforts of a home, and views of the square, putting you directly at the pulse of the city.

• Average cost: 160 to 280 € per night
• Ideal for: groups of friends and families

8. La Maison des Tanneurs

A hotel housed in an authentic 16th-century tannery building, offering a unique historic atmosphere. Rooms combine traditional architecture with modern amenities. It is located in the picturesque district of the same name, full of restaurants and charm.

• Average cost: 190 to 320 € per night
• Ideal for: history buffs and romantic getaways

9. Le Petit Bonheur

A beautifully renovated apartment in a traditional Alsatian house. It offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with thoughtful décor and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay in the heart of the Old Town, ideal for feeling like a local.

• Average cost: 130 to 220 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and solo travellers

Near the Train Station: for practicality and excursions

The area around the central train station (Gare de Colmar) is the epitome of practicality. If you arrive in Colmar by train, you can walk to your hotel in a few minutes, without the hassle of luggage. It's also the ideal base if you plan to take day trips by train to Strasbourg, Basel, or the charming villages of the Wine Route. This neighbourhood is more modern, with wide streets and larger buildings. Although it doesn't have the fairytale atmosphere of the Old Town, it's only a 10 to 15-minute walk away. Hotels here are often more affordable and belong to well-known chains, offering predictable quality and comfort. If you're considering coming by train from Paris, remember that the journey is very fast, as we describe in the guide to transport from Paris airports to the city centre and stations.

10. Novotel Suites Colmar Centre

A modern hotel offering spacious 30 sq.m. suites, ideal for families or longer stays. It is close to the station and has a gym. Comfort and practical amenities are its strong points.

• Average cost: 130 to 220 € per night
• Ideal for: families and business travellers

11. Villa Élyane

An impressive 1920s villa, designated a historic monument, which has been converted into a luxurious B&B. It combines the grandeur of its era with modern comfort. It is very close to the station and offers a unique, more personal accommodation experience.

• Average cost: 180 to 300 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and those seeking something special

12. Colmar Hotel

A modern and functional hotel directly opposite the train station. It offers comfortable rooms, private parking, and easy access to both trains and the historic centre. It's a very popular choice for its practicality.

• Average cost: 110 to 190 € per night
• Ideal for: travellers using the train

13. ibis Budget Colmar Centre Gare

The ultimate budget option right next to the station. It offers basic, clean, and modern rooms at very affordable prices. It's ideal for travellers who just want a clean place to sleep and to spend their money on experiences.

• Average cost: 70 to 120 € per night
• Ideal for: travellers on a low budget

14. ibis Colmar Centre

Slightly further from the station towards the southwest, this Ibis chain hotel offers the classic recipe of reliability and comfort. It has a restaurant and bar, and the centre is about a 15-minute walk away.

• Average cost: 90 to 160 € per night
• Ideal for: business travellers and those with a car

Northern Outskirts: for car travellers and those on a budget

The northern outskirts of Colmar, especially around the exhibition centre (Parc des Expositions), is an area that primarily appeals to two categories of travellers: those coming for business to an exhibition and those travelling by car looking for the most economical accommodation options. Hotels here are usually large, modern establishments with ample parking, which is hard to find and expensive in the centre. Access to the Old Town requires a car or bus (approximately a 10-15 minute journey), so you don't have the immediacy of the centre. However, if budget is an important factor and you don't mind a short commute, you can find excellent deals, especially outside exhibition periods. It's an option reminiscent of staying in cheaper destinations, where you sacrifice a little central location to save money.

15. Campanile NATURE - Colmar Parc des Exposition

A modern hotel with an emphasis on nature and sustainability, located next to the exhibition centre. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free parking. It's an excellent choice for those with a car or attending an event at the Parc des Expositions.

• Average cost: 80 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: business trips and travellers with a car

Areas at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Colmar?

The best time depends on your preferences. For ideal weather and fewer crowds, spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) are perfect. However, if you want to experience the unique Christmas atmosphere, then December is the only way to go, despite the crowds and higher prices.

How many days do I need for Colmar?

Two full days are enough to comfortably explore Colmar's historic centre, visit the Unterlinden Museum, and take a boat trip on the canals. If you want to use Colmar as a base to visit the surrounding Wine Route villages, such as Eguisheim and Riquewihr, then plan for three to four days.

Is Colmar an expensive destination?

Colmar can range from moderately expensive to very expensive, depending on the season. Accommodation, especially in the historic centre and during the Christmas period, comes at a high cost. Restaurant food is also relatively expensive, but there are more affordable options such as bakeries and the covered market. Compared to Paris, it's generally a little more accessible.

Is Colmar suitable for families with children?

Yes, it's a wonderful destination for families. The pedestrianised streets make it safe for walking with children. The Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet), the mini-train ride, and boat trips on the canals are activities they'll love. Many hotels, especially outside the oldest core, offer family rooms.

How do I get around the surrounding wine villages?

The best way for flexibility is to rent a car. Alternatively, there are local buses connecting Colmar with the main villages, although services can be infrequent. During the tourist season, a special bus, the Kutzig, also runs a circular route to some of the most popular villages.

Which airport is best for Colmar?

The closest and most convenient airport is EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL), about 45 minutes by car. It has good train and bus connections to Colmar. Strasbourg Airport (SXB) is the second-best option, especially if you combine it with a visit to Strasbourg.

What should I pack for a trip to Colmar?

Comfortable walking shoes are number one, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the cobblestones. The weather can be unpredictable, so layering is always a good idea. Don't forget an umbrella or a waterproof jacket, especially in spring and autumn. In winter, you'll need very warm, thermal clothes, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. And of course, leave some space, because you'll definitely be buying local delicacies. For more ideas, check out our tips for packing your suitcase.