Holiday rental Colmar: Little Venice and Alsatian charm

Three iconic sites to discover in Colmar

Colmar brings together the treasures of medieval and Renaissance Alsace within a few streets of its old town. These three sites embody the soul of the city: the harmony of the colourful façades, the artistic wealth accumulated over the centuries, and the bourgeois elegance of a prosperous trading town. A day is enough to explore them; a week in a holiday let gives you the chance to return and notice the details you might have missed.

1. Little Venice

This neighbourhood forms the picturesque heart of Colmar, where the River Lauch winds its way between the half-timbered houses. The façades date from the 16th to the 18th centuries: untreated timber, pastel-coloured render and pointed roofs with coloured tiles create a fairytale atmosphere. From the bridge on Rue des Écoles, the reflection of the buildings in the water gives the impression of a ‘Little Venice of the North’, which is how it got its name. It is the most photographed spot in Colmar, and rightly so: every step reveals a new interplay of colours, a carved window or an old shop sign. Strollers will find cafés, restaurants and small shops nestled within these historic buildings, whilst the atmosphere retains its authentic character.

2. Unterlinden Museum

Housed in a Dominican convent founded in the 13th century, this museum is home to Matthias Grünewald’s Issenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Rhenish painting created around 1512–1516. This painted and sculpted polyptych captivates visitors with the intensity of its expressions and the richness of its detail: the building itself, with its serene cloister and vaulted rooms, creates an ideal setting for contemplation. Beyond the altarpiece, the museum offers an immersive exploration of medieval and modern art, from wooden sculptures to Alsatian paintings. A full visit takes several hours; lovers of medieval art will find plenty to keep them engrossed for a long time.

3. Maison Pfister

Built in 1537, the Maison Pfister epitomises the height of the Alsatian Renaissance. Its façade features an arcaded gallery running over two storeys, whilst painted medallions adorn the stonework. Every architectural element tells the story of a cultured and prosperous merchant family: the proportions are harmonious, the materials fine, and the decoration refined yet understated. Situated in the heart of Colmar’s old town, it commands attention with its timeless elegance and remains one of the most remarkable Renaissance residences in Alsace. Its perfectly preserved appearance makes it an essential stop for anyone wishing to understand Colmar’s urban prestige during the Renaissance.

These three sites embody three facets of Colmar’s genius: the urban poetry of Little Venice, the spiritual and artistic quest of the Unterlinden Convent, and the civic affirmation of the Maison Pfister. A holiday in a holiday let in Colmar allows you to discover them at your own pace, alternating between leisurely strolls and more contemplative visits.

The ideal season to book a holiday let in Colmar

Each season transforms Colmar and its Alsatian landscapes. The choice of when to visit depends on the atmosphere you’re looking for and the activities that appeal to you.

Spring gently brings the town to life. Temperatures rise gradually, flowers add colour to the half-timbered façades of Little Venice, and the terraces fill up. It’s the perfect time to explore the cobbled streets on foot without the July crowds. Holiday rentals allow you to make the most of the longer days, open the windows onto the canals and stroll at your leisure.

Summer turns Colmar into a festive and lively destination. Visitors flock to the city, museums and monuments extend their opening hours, and the atmosphere becomes electric. The nights are short and clear. A holiday rental offers the chance to return to rest in the afternoon, before heading out again at the end of the day when the heat has eased. It’s also the season for open-air markets and cultural events in the region.

Autumn paints the Alsatian vineyards in shades of red and gold. Temperatures drop gradually but remain pleasant for walks. The town empties of its summer tourists, offering a more intimate experience. It’s harvest season, and the surrounding landscapes become spectacular. Holiday rentals are the best base from which to discover this transformation without the stress of last-minute bookings.

Winter transforms Colmar into a fairytale landscape. The facades of Little Venice are reflected in the frozen waters, and the town hosts its famous Christmas market from November to December. Temperatures drop significantly, but the atmosphere is unmissable for those who love a cosy ambience. A holiday let allows you to warm up after your walks, enjoy a hot chocolate, and then snuggle up in comfort.

A holiday let remains the best option whatever the season: you have your own private space, your own kitchen for meals between outings, and a real base from which to explore Colmar and Alsace at your own pace, whatever the weather and whatever time of year you choose.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Colmar

Colmar offers a range of activities that reveal the city’s Alsatian heart. From its wine-growing heritage to local cuisine and riverside scenery, you’ll discover the many facets that give this destination its charm. Here are three experiences not to be missed during your stay.

1. Explore the Alsace Wine Route from Colmar

The Alsace Wine Route winds its way through the vineyards that overlook the Alsace plain. From Colmar, you can easily access this legendary route, which meanders between picturesque little villages and vine-covered hillsides. Whether on foot, by bike or by car, you can visit the vineyards, sample the different grape varieties and gain an insight into the local expertise. As you make your way along the route, you’ll meet passionate winegrowers and discover welcoming wine cellars that open their doors to visitors.

Address: City centre, 68000 Colmar.

2. Stroll through the covered market and sample Alsatian specialities

Colmar’s covered market is the heart of local life. Here you’ll discover the lively atmosphere of the town centre and the products for which the region is famous: fine charcuterie, distinctive cheeses, gingerbread, tarte flambée and white wines. Every aisle offers a taste of Alsatian cuisine. You can sample the specialities on the spot or take them back to your holiday accommodation to prepare your own meal.

Address: Rue des Écoles, 68000 Colmar.

3. Take a boat trip on the River Lauch in Little Venice

Little Venice is Colmar’s most iconic neighbourhood, with its colourful houses reflected in the tranquil waters. A boat trip on the River Lauch offers a unique perspective on the distinctive architecture and well-preserved riverbanks. This relaxing experience immerses you in the town’s medieval atmosphere in an intimate and soothing way.

Address: Rue de la Poissonerie, 68000 Colmar.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Colmar

When choosing a holiday rental in Colmar, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its proximity to tourist attractions. Travellers look for facilities that make their daily lives easier and allow them to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. From the little everyday touches to facilities designed with families or groups in mind, here’s what makes the difference for a successful stay.

• Fully equipped kitchen: cooking your own meals offers freedom and saves money, particularly when staying for several days with the family.
• Private or nearby car park: in Colmar, having secure parking avoids the hassle of searching for a space in the city centre.
• Efficient heating: essential for autumn and winter stays, it guarantees optimal comfort during these periods.
• Wi-Fi connection: staying connected whilst enjoying the medieval town is what today’s travellers expect.
• Fully equipped bathroom: a spacious bath or shower and generous amenities make your bathroom routine more enjoyable.
• Television: for relaxing evenings after a day’s sightseeing, watch a programme or a film in French.
• Outdoor space: a terrace, a small garden or a courtyard allows children to play safely in the open air.
• Washing machine: for stays of a week or more, being able to wash your laundry on site makes packing much easier.
• Air conditioning: during hot summer months, keeping rooms cool is a real bonus for your wellbeing.
• Baby equipment: cot, high chair, baby bath – all these items help families pack lighter.

Every holiday rental in Colmar should meet your specific needs: the number of people, the length of stay, the season and your budget will guide your choice of essential facilities. A well-designed property transforms a holiday into a truly rejuvenating break.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Colmar?

In Colmar, holiday let rates vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 50 and 90 euros per night. A family-sized three- or four-bedroom property tends to cost between 90 and 150 euros per night. Larger flats or houses with a terrace and high-end facilities can cost between 150 and 250 euros per night.

Several factors influence these prices. Location plays a major role: a property right in the historic centre, close to the canals and the cathedral, will cost more than accommodation on the outskirts. The length of stay also affects the rate: rentals often offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays, which can represent a substantial saving for a longer stay. The facilities and services included (fully equipped kitchen, parking, washing machine) also affect the price.

The time of year matters too: prices rise significantly during the peak summer season, particularly in July and August. Spring and autumn generally offer better value for money. To keep your budget under control, read previous travellers’ reviews carefully and check what’s included in the price. Booking a few weeks in advance often allows you to find better deals than last-minute bookings.