My Photography & Travel Guide to Colmar, France
Imagine stepping into a watercolor painting—pastel timber-framed houses reflected in tranquil canals, cobblestone streets lined with flower boxes, and golden light casting an ethereal glow at every corner. That’s Colmar, France. Nestled in the Alsace region near the German border, this fairy-tale town feels plucked from the pages of a storybook and placed gently into the heart of wine country.
I would definitely recommend visiting during the Christmas markets.
This Photography Guide to Colmar is crafted for curious travelers and photographers seeking postcard-worthy images, cozy corners, and authentic cultural charm. From Travel Tips for Colmar to the Best Photography Spots in Colmar, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
The Classic View
Where to Stay in Colmar
The best place to stay in Colmar is the Old Town, where the magic truly unfolds. You’ll be within walking distance of major attractions, canals, and sunrise/sunset photo ops.
🏨 Luxury Hotels in Colmar:
La Maison des Têtes – A 17th-century mansion turned 5-star hotel with gorgeous interiors and Michelin-star dining.
L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa Colmar – MGallery – Sleek, modern luxury on the edge of the historic district, perfect for combining comfort with culture.
James Boutique Hotel – Boutique elegance with refined interiors and great walkability.
🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:
Hotel Le Colombier – Just steps from Little Venice, this hotel offers rustic-modern comfort and great views.
Hotel Saint-Martin – A charming stay inside a traditional Alsatian building, full of character.
Hotel Turenne – Clean, affordable, and just a short walk from the historic center.
How Many Days to Spend in Colmar?
1-2 days is ideal for photographers and travelers alike. This gives you time to wander the winding streets at different hours for varied lighting, explore nearby villages like Eguisheim or Riquewihr, and enjoy the local culture without rushing.
Best Time to Visit Colmar
The best time to visit Colmar for photography is late spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October) and during the Christmas markets. Expect golden light, fewer crowds, and rich colors—perfect for photography.
Spring: Flower boxes overflow with color.
Fall: Vineyards and trees ignite in reds and oranges.
December: Visit for one of the most magical Christmas Markets in Europe, with dazzling lights and charming decorations.
Getting Around Colmar
Colmar is made for walking. The Old Town is compact and flat, and nearly every photo-worthy corner is pedestrian-friendly.
Public transport isn’t essential unless you’re heading out to nearby villages.
Bike rentals are available, but cobblestones can make for a bumpy ride.
Uber and Bolt operate here but aren’t always available.
Trains connect Colmar with Strasbourg and Basel easily for day trips.
A Santa Letter Box
Best Restaurants in Colmar
From Alsatian classics to refined French cuisine, here’s where to eat in Colmar:
Wistub de la Petite Venise – Cozy, traditional, and wildly photogenic.
JY’s – A two-Michelin-star experience by the canal.
Le Quai 21 – Creative dishes and great wine pairings.
Brasserie Schwendi – Alsatian favorites like tarte flambée and choucroute in a laid-back setting.
La Soï – Small, casual, and famed for their spätzle.
Coffee Shops in Colmar
L’Atelier de Yann – Great for pastries, coffee, and natural light photos.
Café Rapp – Stylish, central, and cozy.
Café de la Rue des Marchands – Quaint, old-world charm and good espresso.
Best Photography Gear for Colmar
Recommended Camera Bodies:
Canon EOS R5
Nikon Z7 II
Sony A7R V
Lenses:
16–35mm wide-angle: For canals and interiors.
24–70mm zoom: Versatile, great for architecture and portraits.
70–200mm telephoto: Ideal for compressing charming façades or isolating details.
Accessories:
Lightweight tripod (ideal for early morning or evening canal shots)
Circular polarizer (for reducing glare on water)
Drone (check local regulations carefully—urban drone flights are restricted)
Top Photography Spots in Colmar
Petite Venise – The most iconic view; best shot at sunrise or dusk.
Rue des Marchands – Half-timbered houses stacked like a painter’s palette.
Covered Market (Marché Couvert) – Bright colors, locals shopping, and food photo ops.
Koïfhus (Old Customs House) – Great textures and angles, especially from the upper floor.
Dominican Church – Golden-hour light hitting the façade is sublime.
Unterlinden Museum Courtyard – Architectural contrast and lovely framing shots.
Festivals & Events in Colmar
🎄 Colmar Christmas Market (Late Nov–Dec): One of the most photogenic in Europe.
🎨 Festival of Alsatian Culture (July): Folk costumes, music, and vibrant celebrations.
🍷 Alsace Wine Fair (August): A blend of wine, music, and photo-worthy moments in nearby towns.
Final Thoughts
Colmar is more than just a picturesque town; it's a living canvas that invites photographers and travelers alike to immerse themselves in its storybook charm. From the vibrant facades of Little Venice to the festive allure of its renowned Christmas markets, every corner offers a unique perspective waiting to be captured.
Whether you're meandering through its cobblestone streets, savoring Alsatian delicacies, or attending one of its many cultural festivals, Colmar provides an enriching experience that resonates long after your visit. Its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking inspiration and adventure.
If you enjoyed this guide to Colmar, you can explore my other Photography and Travel Guides here.
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