A Fairytale Journey on A Zurich to Colmar Day Trip

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Ready to escape Zurich for a day and step into a storybook? Just two hours away lies Colmar, a charming French town bursting with color, canals, and cobblestone streets. Imagine wandering past half-timbered houses, tasting local wines, and savoring flaky pastries—all against a backdrop of Alsatian magic.

Whether you’re craving art, food, or a stroll through a postcard-perfect town, this guide has it all. Let’s dive into the best of Colmar, where your perfect day trip adventure awaits!

Getting from Zurich to Colmar

Taking the train from Zurich to Colmar is the most convenient and scenic way to travel. 

The train ride offers panoramic views of the Swiss and French countryside. You’ll pass by charming villages, lush vineyards, and rolling hills, making it a journey worth savoring.

• Route: Board a train at Zurich Hauptbahnhof (HB), transfer at Basel SBB, and continue directly to Colmar.
• Travel Time: About 2 hours total, including a quick transfer in Basel.
• Ticket Price: Ranges from $21 to $63 (€20-€60) for a one-way trip (discounts available for early bookings).
• If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, the ride is covered, and it’s a great opportunity to enjoy a stress-free morning while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Alternatively, driving gives you flexibility and the chance to make impromptu stops along the way. 

You can stop at scenic viewpoints or visit quaint Alsatian villages like Eguisheim, known for its cobblestone streets and colorful houses. Parking in Colmar is easy, with options like “Parking Rapp” located near the Old Town.

• Route: Take the A1 motorway from Zurich, connect to A3 towards Basel, and then follow A35 into Colmar.
• Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Expect to spend $19-$28.5 (€18-€27) for fuel and tolls.
• Make sure to have euros on hand for tolls, and consider downloading a navigation app like Waze to avoid traffic.

Full-Day Itinerary: Zurich to Colmar Day Trip

To help you make the most of your visit, here’s a well-planned itinerary that will keep you on track without feeling rushed:

Time	Activity
7:30 AM	Depart from Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)
9:30 AM	Arrive in Colmar, enjoy a quick breakfast
10:00 AM	Stroll through the picturesque Old Town and Little Venice
11:00 AM	Visit the Unterlinden Museum
12:30 PM	Lunch at an Alsatian restaurant or lunch+wine tasting at a vineyard
2:00 PM	Explore St. Martin’s Church and the House of Heads
3:30 PM	Boat ride through Little Venice
5:00 PM	Souvenir shopping and pastry tasting
6:30 PM	Head back to Zurich
8:30 PM	Arrive in Zurich, wrap up your day

Must-See Attractions in Colmar

Colmar is a compact yet vibrant town packed with charm and history. Here’s your checklist of top attractions:

1. Colmar’s Old Town

Colmar’s Old Town is the beating heart of the city, where every street feels like a scene from a fairytale. It’s a place where you can wander aimlessly and discover centuries of history around every corner, from medieval churches to brightly painted half-timbered houses. 

Highlights:

• Maison Pfister: One of Colmar’s most iconic buildings, this 16th-century house stands out with its wooden balconies, vibrant frescoes, and Renaissance architecture. It’s a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers.
• Rue des Marchands: The main street of the Old Town, lined with charming boutiques, cafés, and souvenir shops. It’s the perfect place to browse for local handicrafts and unique gifts.
• Koïfhus (Old Customs House): Colmar’s oldest public building, once a hub for trade and taxes. The building’s beautiful stone façade and rooftop offer a glimpse into the town’s rich mercantile past.
• Landmarks and Murals: Keep an eye out for painted murals on the façades of many buildings. These intricate paintings often depict local legends, historical events, or scenes from daily life in old Colmar.
• Landsgemeindeplatz (Main Square): This lively square is the center of activity in the Old Town, surrounded by historical landmarks, fountains, and open-air cafés. It’s a great spot to sit down and watch the world go by.

2. Little Venice

Little Venice (La Petite Venise) is the most picturesque area of Colmar, famous for its colorful half-timbered houses and serene canals. This is the heart of Colmar’s Old Town. A stroll here feels like stepping into a painting, with flowers cascading from window boxes and reflections dancing on the water.

Highlights:

• Scenic Canals: The area is characterized by its winding canals that resemble those found in Venice, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls or boat rides.
• Boat rides offer beautiful views of the colorful half-timbered houses and lush flower arrangements that characterize Little Venice, making it a delightful experience for tourists.
• Pont Saint-Pierre Bridge: The best place for photos, offering postcard-worthy views of the canals.
• Culinary Delights: Visitors can enjoy local Alsatian cuisine at various restaurants and cafes along the canals, offering specialties such as tarte flambée and coq au Riesling.
• Festivals: Little Venice hosts various events throughout the year, including Christmas markets that transform the area into a winter wonderland.

Arrive before 10 AM to enjoy the area without the crowds, and take time to explore the narrow side streets for hidden gems.

3. Unterlinden Museum

Unterlinden Museum is the art and history hub of Colmar. Housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent, it’s a must-visit for art lovers. The museum houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Matthias Grünewald. It’s home to the Isenheim Altarpiece, one of the most important Gothic artworks in Europe.

Unterlinden regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on various themes and artists, enhancing its appeal to both local and international visitors. Plan to spend at least an hour here to fully appreciate the diverse collection.

Highlights:

• Isenheim Altarpiece, the 16th-century work by Matthias Grünewald, is known for its vivid detail and intense portrayal of Christ’s life.
• Renaissance Collection features notable paintings from the Renaissance era, including pieces by Hans Holbein and Albrecht Dürer.
• Modern Art Section showcases artworks from the 19th and 20th centuries, highlighting the shift and evolution in artistic styles.

Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (closed Tuesdays)

Admission Fee: $13 per adult (free with the Alsace Pass)

You can also enjoy refreshments at the museum café and explore a gift shop that sells art-related books, souvenirs, and local crafts.

4. St. Martin’s Church

St. Martin’s Church is a stunning example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. The church was built between the 13th and 14th centuries, showcasing the transition from Romanesque to Gothic styles. 

Despite its size and grandeur, this Roman Catholic Church is often mistaken for a cathedral. It’s known locally as the “Collegiate Church of St. Martin.” Originally constructed as a collegiate church, it served as a center for religious activities and education in the region.

Highlights:

• Stained Glass Windows: The interior is adorned with stunning stained glass windows that date back to the 14th century, depicting various biblical scenes and figures.
• Altar and Chapels: The church features a beautifully crafted altar and several chapels that house important religious artifacts and artworks.

5. House of Heads (Maison des Têtes)

Next awaits The House of Heads which is a remarkable historical building known for its distinctive German Renaissance style. The 106 heads that are carved into the oriel and mullions of the windows give the building its name.

Constructed in 1609, the building showcases a half-timbered design typical of the Alsace region, with wooden beams visible on the exterior.

• Current Use: The building now houses a luxury hotel and a fine dining restaurant, but it’s worth a visit for the exterior alone.
• Photo Tip: Capture the intricate details of the faces up close for a memorable shot.

6. Dining in Colmar

Food is one of the crucial highlights of any trip, especially to Colmar. Here’s where to eat for an authentic taste of Alsace:

For traditional Alsatian cuisine, look for

• Restaurant La Soï: A go-to for classic Alsatian dishes like choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages) and tarte flambée (thin crust flatbread). The warm, rustic vibe makes it perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Wistub de la Petite Venise: Nestled by the canals, this spot serves regional favorites like coq au Riesling and fresh, local fish. Enjoy a charming, cozy setting.

For a combination of lunch and wine tasting, consider visiting the following vineyards:

• Domaine Weinbach (Kaysersberg): A family-run vineyard known for its organic wines; enjoy tastings of the famous aromatic white wine Riesling and Gewürztraminer with a terrace lunch option.
• Domaine Zind-Humbrecht (Turckheim): Famous for Grand Cru wines and sustainable practices; tastings are by appointment with nearby Alsatian dining options.
• Cave de Turckheim (Turckheim): A popular cooperative offering diverse wine tastings, including Crémant d’Alsace, with cozy local bistros nearby for lunch.

For casual eateries and cafés, go to

• Café Rapp: A lively café known for its coffee and pastries, ideal for a relaxed breakfast or light lunch with lovely views of the Old Town.
• Local Bakeries: Stop by for fresh baguettes, pretzels, and the famous kougelhopf (a traditional bundt cake). Perfect for a quick snack or takeaway treat.

And for fine dining options, try the following spots:

• JY’s: Michelin-starred elegance with creative French cuisine. Reservations are a must for this high-end dining experience.
• L’Atelier du Peintre: A refined setting with artistic flair, offering innovative dishes that showcase the best of local ingredients and seasonal flavors.

Learn some basic French phrases and pronunciations to blend in with the local atmosphere and for transactions in the area. 

7. Your Day Trip Comes to a Sweet End

After a day filled with sightseeing, shopping, and delicious food, it’s time to head back to Zurich. Here’s how to wrap up your trip:

• Train: Direct trains to Zurich run frequently in the evening. Check the schedule to catch the last train, usually around 7 PM.
• Driving Back: Avoid peak traffic times, especially on weekdays. If you have extra time, stop by a village café for a quick coffee before hitting the road.

A Perfect Day in Colmar

As you head back to Zurich, memories of Colmar’s vibrant streets, tasty tarte flambée, and serene canals linger. You packed a lot into a single day—art, history, wine, and the essence of Alsace. This was more than just a day trip; it was a little slice of French magic. 

Here’s to new adventures and many more hidden gems waiting to be explored. Until next time, bon voyage and à bientôt!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)