[2025 Colmar Attraction] Travel Guide for St Martin's Church (Updated Jul)

✨A French fairy tale town, it's like stepping into Howl's Moving Castle✨ 🪄When you see the town in this picture, do you feel a sense of déjà vu? If you are familiar with Hayao Miyazaki's work 'Howl's Moving Castle', then this scene will not be unfamiliar to you😉. Remember when Sophie was walking alone on the path, being teased by two soldiers, and Howl descended from the sky like a hero🕺, with blond hair and blue eyes, wearing a cloak, appearing beside Sophie. He took Sophie dancing in the air above the town, lightly stepping over the rooftops, overlooking the entire town, everything was dreamily beautiful💕. 👧The most impressive to me was the scene where they danced in the air🎈, those rows of pointed timber-framed houses, scattered in an orderly fashion, looking down from above, both romantic and spectacular🎆. And this scene is not a figment of Grandpa Miyazaki's imagination, its prototype is the town of Colmar on the Alsace Wine Route in France! Compare the pictures, isn't it almost identical😲! Those timber-framed houses are just like two peas in a pod! Here, it seems that you can see Howl carrying Sophie flying over the rooftops🕊️! 🏡Over the past millennium, the Alsace region has changed hands between France and Germany several times, its history is an epic of German-French contradictions and integration📚. Speaking of Alsace, does it feel familiar to you🤔? Let's read the text below together and see if it can evoke fragments of your memory📃: 'After the grammar lesson, we started the handwriting class📝. That day, Mr. Hamel gave us new copybooks, all with beautiful round script: 'France' 'Alsace' 'France' 'Alsace'. These copybooks hung on the iron rods of our desks, like many small national flags fluttering in the classroom🚩. Everyone was so focused, the classroom was unbelievably quiet🎵!' 'The Last Lesson' cast a melancholic and solemn hue over Alsace😢. But in fact, before the 17th century, the Alsace region belonged to the Holy Roman Empire (the predecessor of Germany), and people mainly spoke German📄. After the famous Thirty Years' War in Europe, Alsace came under French rule. And in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871, France was defeated, and Alsace belonged to Prussia, until Germany was defeated in World War II, Alsace returned to the arms of France💪, and formed the current border between the two countries along the Rhine River🗺️. 📖If cities can also be mixed-race, then Colmar is undoubtedly a beautiful town with German-French mixed blood🌸. Carefully calculated, this place belonged to Germany for a longer time than it belonged to France. This also explains why Colmar's architectural style is full of Germanic charm🏰, those timber-framed houses and the magnificent Gothic churches with pointed spires all bear strong Germanic marks🎨, as well as many street names with German suffixes and the dialect mixed with German and French, all have a reasonable explanation🤝. ✨Colmar also has many attractions worth visiting🎡, such as the Little Venice area, where the waterways crisscross, and the colorful timber-framed houses are reflected in the water, picturesque🖼️; there is also the Unterlinden Museum, which displays the rich history and culture of the Alsace region📜; and the Saint Martin Church, whose towering spires and exquisite carvings are awe-inspiring👏. Come to Colmar and experience the unique charm of this fairy tale town💖!

Erected from 1235 on the site of a previous building, this collegiate church is the most imposing Gothic church in Middle Alsace. The south facade of the transept, with the Saint Nicolas portal, is the finest part. The strange roofing of the tower replaces a spire which collapsed following a fire in 1572. As the seat of the constitutional bishopric of the Haut-Rhin district during the French revolution, Saint Martin had cathedral status during that period. The church’s silhouette, with its single bell tower, is particularly recognisable from neighbouring districts. It’s extremely beautiful inside too. Look carefully at the amazing stained glass panels and the 2 large organs at the marvelous altar here. #bucketlistreboot

📅 Itinerary Day1：- The Eiffel Tower from Trocadero - Photo at Le castle cafe - The Eiffel Tower from Prac du Chanp-de-Mars - Montmartre - Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre - Moulin Rouge Day2: - Versailles Palace - Arc de Tromp - Bateaux Mouches Day3: - Louvre Museum - Notre dame Cathedral Day4 : - Starsbourg - Walk to La Petite France - Place of Benjamin XI - place Kleber - Place Gutenberg - Starsbourg Cathedral Day5 : - Colmar - Koifhus (Inspriration of Beauty and the Beast) - Bartholdi Museum - The house of heads (Le Maiosn des tetes') - Unterlinden Museum - Marche Couvert - Little Venice Day6 : - Eguisheim - Auberge Du Rempart - Place du Chateau - Le Pigeonnier House 🏨 Accommodation Paris : Novotel Paris Les Halles Starsbourg: ibis Starsbourg centre gare 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips

#cityplaybook #familytrip #localguides #historicallandmarks #postandearn Nestled in northeastern France, Colmar is one of those rare towns that looks exactly like a postcard come to life. With its cobblestone lanes, pastel-painted half-timbered houses, and dreamy canals, Colmar feels like a living fairytale—and my visit here was like stepping into another world. What stood out most to me was La Petite Venise (Little Venice), the town’s most picturesque quarter. As I drifted along the canal on a quiet boat ride, I was struck by how serene and vibrant the town was. Flower boxes overflowed with color, and reflections danced on the water under soft afternoon light. Every corner seemed made for photos—and for daydreams. Art and history lovers will fall in love with the Unterlinden Museum, home to the world-famous Isenheim Altarpiece, while wine enthusiasts can follow the Alsace Wine Route starting right from Colmar. Tasting local Gewürztraminer and Riesling at nearby vineyards gave me a deeper appreciation for the region’s culture and flavors. Strolling through Old Town, I marveled at landmarks like the Maison Pfister, St. Martin’s Church, and the Koïfhus. Colmar’s unique blend of French and Germanic influence is reflected not just in its architecture, but also in its food—think flammekueche, bretzels, and Alsatian sausages. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) for blooming flowers and comfortable weather December for the magical Christmas Markets—some of the most enchanting in Europe Travel Tips: Colmar is very walkable—wear comfy shoes and explore every alley. Consider a day trip to nearby towns like Eguisheim or Riquewihr. If visiting during the holidays, book early—Christmas season gets busy! Location: Colmar, Grand Est, France #ColmarMagic #FairytaleFrance #AlsaceAdventures #PetiteVenise #ColmarChristmas #FrenchWineRoute #StorybookTown #ColmarVibes #EuropeHiddenGems #CharmingColmar

Beauty Colmar Walking Tour Discovered the Saint-Martin Clergy! Fall in love with its wonderful appearance! ▫️Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar 📍18 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar, France 🕰️Tuesday-Thursday 08:00-18:00, Saturday 08:00-19:00, Sunday 10:00-18:00 ❗️Closed every Monday #EuropeanTravel #Colmar #ColmarTravel #ColmarTravelDestination

A great place to visit on a day trip from Paris, the Collegiate Church of Saint-Martin! A place where you can fall in love with the beautiful stained glass and enter for free, so I recommend visiting~ ▫️Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar 📍18 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar, France ❗️Closed on Mondays #Overseas travel #France travel #Colmar #Colmar travel

Colmar is a town in the Alsace region of northeastern France. It is known for its unique architectural style and water town charm, and is considered one of the "Top 10 Most Beautiful Towns in the World." Here is a travel guide to Colmar to help you plan your trip. Visa and Entry Apply for a French tourist visa in advance and prepare a valid passport and visa application materials (such as photos, itinerary, proof of funds, etc.). For specific requirements, please consult the French Embassy or Visa Center. Time Difference Colmar is in the Central European Time Zone, which is 7 hours behind China (6 hours during daylight saving time). Best Time to Visit Colmar is suitable for travel all year round, but each season has its own unique features. Spring (March to May): The temperature gradually warms up and flowers bloom. Summer (June to August): The sun is shining, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November): Grape harvest season, a paradise for wine lovers. Winter (December to February): Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere. Transportation Guide External Transportation: Colmar does not have an airport, but you can fly to Basel, Nice, or Paris and then take a train. Trains from Strasbourg run every half hour and take about 30 minutes to reach Colmar. Internal Transportation: You can walk around the old town or take a sightseeing train to visit the main attractions. Popular Attractions Colmar Old Town: Colorful wooden houses and medieval streets. Little Venice: Canals run through the city, with colorful houses on both sides. Rue des Tanneurs and Rue des Clefs: Preserved half-timbered houses. Saint Martin's Church: An outstanding Gothic building. Maison des Têtes and Unterlinden Museum: Display precious cultural relics and artworks. Local Cuisine Alsatian Stew: A rich local specialty. Alsatian White Wine: Full-bodied. French Desserts: Such as crepes, macarons, etc. Accommodation Options It is recommended to choose a hotel in the city center or near Little Venice for easy access and sightseeing. Shopping Recommendations Alsatian Pottery: Local specialty pottery. Handicrafts: Such as wood carvings, glassware, etc. Notes Tipping is customary in France. In restaurants, you can tip about 5%-10% of the bill amount based on the service. Pay attention to personal property safety and respect local customs and religious beliefs. Colmar is a charming town that is perfect for savoring and exploring slowly. We hope this guide will help you plan your trip to Colmar.

Colmar is a charming little city located in the Alsace region in eastern France, near the borders of Germany and Switzerland. The city is known for its beautiful half-timbered houses and small streets filled with medieval atmosphere. Top attractions in Colmar: 1. La Petite Venise - Little Venice • The most beautiful district of Colmar, with small canals and colorful houses. • You can take a canal cruise to enjoy the view or take a stroll along the bridges and banks to take photos. 2. Musée Unterlinden • A museum with Renaissance artwork, especially the Isenheim Altarpiece. • Housed in an old monastery, it showcases antiques and artwork. 3. St. Martin’s Church • A Gothic church in the center of town Built in the 13th-14th century • Beautiful stained glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere 4. Old Town • Full of old wooden houses and shops decorated with colorful flowers • Perfect for walking, tasting local food and buying souvenirs 5. Wineries and Wine Tasting Tours • Colmar is part of the Alsace Wine Route • You can visit wineries near the city and try famous white wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer Christmas Market in Colmar: Colmar is one of the cities that hosts the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, held from late November to the end of December Highlights of Colmar Christmas Market: 1. 5 markets in the city: • Place des Dominicains: handicrafts • Ancienne Douane: food and drink • Small market in La Petite Venise: family and child-friendly • Koïfhus: arts and crafts • Jeanne d’Arc: local cuisine 2. The city lights • The buildings, houses and streets are decorated with colorful lights, creating a romantic atmosphere 3. Food and drink • Try mulled wine (Vin Chaud), Christmas cookies, gingerbread and traditional Alsatian dishes such as Choucroute and Flammekueche Colmar Christmas Market Tips: • The market opens around the end of November and runs until December 30 (hours vary slightly each year) • Evenings are the best time to see the lights, but come early to avoid the crowds • Bring cash, as many shops may not accept credit cards Colmar is a great place to walk around and experience a true European Christmas! #france #colmar

#2024TravelReview The moment I arrived in Colmar, I felt like I had walked into a colorful oil painting. The colorful houses are reflected in the clear water of the canal, the cobblestone streets are winding, and the air is filled with the aroma of bread and wine. Everything is so dreamy and romantic, like a scene from a fairy tale. This small town in Alsace is not only a beautiful city, but also a museum that solidifies history, culture and art. It brings me not only visual enjoyment, but also deep thinking about life and culture. My trip to Colmar started from Petite Venise. This area is famous for its winding canals and brightly colored houses. I walked along the canal, admiring the colorful houses lining its banks and the beautiful reflections in the water. The small boats on the canal drift slowly, adding a touching rhythm to this peaceful area. The sun shines on the water, making it sparkle, and everything seems so peaceful and beautiful. I can even imagine what a romantic scene this would be in the evening. Next, I walked into the old town of Colmar. The buildings here are mostly in medieval and Renaissance styles. They are very well preserved and each building is like a work of art. I strolled along the cobblestone streets, feeling the historical texture of the stone slabs under my feet and admiring the buildings that were full of stories. The walls of many houses are covered with exquisite murals, telling the history and culture of Colmar. These buildings are not just cold stones, but also living witnesses of history. They have witnessed the rise and fall, glory and disgrace of Colmar, as well as the changes of the times. In Colmar, I visited many historical sites, such as the Collégiale Saint-Martin. This church has a long history and magnificent architecture. Its Gothic architectural style is breathtaking. The interior of the church is beautifully decorated and full of religious solemnity and sacredness. I sat quietly in the church, feeling the historical atmosphere emanating from this ancient building and the cultural heritage it carries. I also visited the Toy Museum (Musée du Jouet) in Colmar. This museum has a large collection of toys, ranging from ancient puppets to modern electronic toys. These toys not only remind me of the good old days of my childhood, but also give me a deeper understanding of the history and culture of toys. This also made me think about how toys reflect the changing times and their important position in human culture. Shopping is also a pleasure in Colmar. From high-end boutiques to antique shops, from souvenir shops to local craft stores, there is everything. I bought some Colmar-themed souvenirs, such as postcards with Colmar scenery and some local handicrafts. These souvenirs not only left me with fond memories, but also made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of Colmar. I particularly like the Alsatian-style ceramics. Their exquisite workmanship and unique style make me unable to put them down. I was also impressed by the natural scenery of Colmar. Colmar is located in the Alsace Plain, surrounded by beautiful rural scenery. I rented a bicycle and rode along the country roads, admiring the pastoral scenery and feeling the tranquility and beauty of the countryside. The vineyards in the distance are neatly arranged in rows and look particularly beautiful under the sunlight. This beautiful rural scenery not only made me feel the charm of nature, but also gave me a deeper understanding of the agricultural culture of Alsace. In Colmar, I also sampled many local delicacies such as Alsatian sausage (Saucisse de Strasbourg) and tarte flambée (Tarte flambée). These delicacies not only satisfied my taste buds, but also made me feel the food culture of Alsace. The crispy and delicious taste of the flame cake left me with an unforgettable aftertaste. During my few days in Colmar, I also participated in some local activities, such as attending the local wine festival and attending local concerts. These activities not only made me feel the enthusiasm and vitality of Colmar, but also gave me a deeper understanding of Colmar's culture. At the wine festival, I tasted many different types of Alsace wines and felt their unique flavors and aromas. My trip to Colmar made me deeply feel the unique charm of this small town. It is not as noisy and prosperous as big cities, but it has a quiet and beautiful temperament. It has both the weight of history and the vitality of modern times; it has both cultural heritage and natural freshness. It is a perfect place that blends history, culture, art and nature. Here are some little moments from the journey that made it more interesting and touching: Communication with locals: I communicated with some locals, they were friendly and hospitable, and introduced me to the customs and culture of Colmar. Their love for Colmar deeply touched me. An unexpected discovery: In a side alley in Colmar, I found a hidden cafe filled with the rich aroma of coffee and a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. Here, I tasted delicious coffee and felt the hospitality of the locals. Resting by the canal: Sitting on a bench beside the canal in Little Venice, I quietly admired the canal scenery, felt the flow of the river, and the breeze blowing. This tranquility allows me to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Colmar at night: As night falls, the lights of Colmar are turned on, and the colorful houses are even more beautiful in the night. This quiet beauty is unforgettable. The trip to Colmar is not only an ordinary sightseeing, but also a baptism of the soul. It has given me a deeper understanding of history, culture, nature and life, and has also given me new insights into the meaning of life. It made me understand that the beauty of life lies not only in the grand scenery, but also in the subtle feelings and the warmth between people. Colmar, this fairy-tale town, will always be engraved in my memory and become a beautiful memory in my life journey. It made me reflect on how to preserve the essence of traditional culture in modern life and how to find tranquility and beauty in a fast-paced life. Colmar gave me the answer and also inspired me. Goodbye, beautiful Colmar!