On a trip to Germany, we had an opportunity to spend a couple of days in the enchanting town of Colmar, France. What a wonderful and charming gingerbread town. Half-timbered buildings sit along canals, amazing cathedrals rise to the sky, and you can enjoy delicious food and drink. What more do you want on vacation?
Where to stay and what to do in the enchanting town of Colmar, France
We stayed at le Maréchal hotel, built in the 1400s. The rooms are quaint and well-furnished. The stairs creaked as we climbed to our room. But that adds character to this wonderful hotel. The hotel has an amazing breakfast with eggs, meats, cheeses, pastries, bread, and more, which comes with the room’s price. Our room overlooked the courtyard entry and street. However, it was quiet and comfortable and had a large bathroom. Our brother and sister-in-law stayed in a room that overlooked the canal that runs through the town.
Colmar is a small town on Germany’s border, so you’ll experience similar architecture and food as its neighbor. We visited in fall, and the weather was warm and sunny as we explored the many narrow streets, colorful buildings, and shops. There are a couple of gorgeous cathedrals in town, too, if you’d like to stop and take a look.
Unterlinden Museum is the second most visited museum in France. There are many wonderful works of art to explore, and you can spend as much time as you like if you are limited.
We even did our laundry, which is an experience if you ever get the chance. We were fortunate to have a wonderful, friendly local woman help us with the machines and money. Doing laundry is a great way to cut down on luggage and the clothes you need to take on your trip.
Where to eat in Colmar, France
We asked the hotel staff where we should eat in the area. I’ve found that this is a good way to narrow your many choices regarding dining out. Many times they can recommend less-touristy places. We chose Wistub Brenner, which was located just around the corner from the hotel. We ate on the patio in front of the restaurant, which was wonderful.
The other amazing place we chose was Wistub de la Petite Venise, an easy walk and from the hotel and, again, just around the corner. We were lucky to get a reservation, and it’s good we did as this restaurant was packed with locals and tourists. It’s a quaint two-story building. Our table was upstairs in a smaller room, and it was wonderful. The food, wine, and service were all exceptional.
We stopped and had a late afternoon beer at a local Irish Pub we found while wandering the streets.
We will return to this area someday to explore the countryside and towns of eastern France.
