Colorful buildings, lining cobblestone streets. Canals flowing through the center of town. This is Colmar. More specifically, this is the Little Venice area of Colmar. Little Venice Colmar received its’ name as an ode to its’ Italian counterpart. With a name like this, it is no surprise that while Little Venice Colmar only makes up a small portion of the town, the area packs a punch. A very colorful punch. One day in Colmar will allow you to explore charming Little Venice, wander the colorful streets and leave you wanting to see more of the Alsace Region.
One Day in Colmar: Little Venice Colmar
The streets were quiet during my stroll through town as the morning light poured over the roof tops of Colmar’s half-timbered houses. A day trip to Colmar is very popular. Once the tour busses start arriving, the town will fill up fast. Arriving on an early train from Strasbourg, I was able to beat out the crowds.
Canal Boat Rides
As the houses became increasingly more vibrant and the canals were in view, I knew we made it to Little Venice. I watched as boats floated idly down the canals, bringing tourists throughout the area. Canal rides are offered, allowing visitors to get a unique view of the town.
Tanner’s District
The winding streets brought me into the center of Little Venice to the colorful row of half-timbered houses of the Tanner’s district. This row of houses are in the most spectacular array of pastel hues adorned with vibrant shutters. Walking through Little Venice Colmar was a treat to the senses; the trees swayed in the wind as a low ripple rolled through the canal. My eyes were wide from the vibrant hues all around and the scent of fresh bakeries wafted through the air delighting my nose.
Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie
After taking in the colorful houses, I had to sample some of the delicious bakeries that were beckoning me. I first stopped at Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie to try the delicately sweet cookies from this Colmar staple.
Bretzel Snack
Next I stopped for a necessary fresh-baked bretzel. Bretzel is the Alsacian name for pretzel. The bretzel was warm, soft and very delicious. This was the perfect snack for a day exploring.
Canal Views
I cut across every bridge, taking in as many views of Little Venice Colmar as I could. The views from the bridges were spectacular. Colmar looked like it was painted in watercolors, its’ hues reflecting on the mirror like surface of the canals.
Covered Market of Colmar
Located in Little Venice, you will find the Covered Market of Colmar. The market spilled out into the streets with stalls selling everything from cheeses, meats and bakeries. There were even several food trucks selling ready-to-serve goods. 
Brasserie Des Tanneurs
Located by the Covered Market is the most photogenic spots in town, Brasserie Des Tanneurs, a well known cafe. This cafe is adorned with eclectic decor; hearts, bicycles and roosters. 
Details, Details, Details
Colmar is all about the details. From the carved heart details on the pastel shutters to the cohesively colorful houses. Everything is absolutely adorable. I kept my eye out for stork details. The stork is the symbol of Alsace and can be found throughout Colmar.
Colmar Day Trip
After spending one day in Colmar, I was rather smitten with this town. Its’ impossible charm and colorful half-timbered houses captivated me. While I only spend an afternoon here, I could have spent days taking in every last colorful view.
Colmar is a great day trip destination. The closest cities to Colmar are Strasbourg, France and Basel, Switzerland. A day trip to Colmar from Strasbourg is highly suggested. This day trip allows you to experience both a city and town in the Alsace region. Longer day trips from Paris and Zurich are possible as well.
After exploring Colmar, head to Riquewihr, the village that inspired Beauty and the Beast!