Winter In Colmar Travel Guide: Things To Do In Colmar In Winter

As the holiday season approaches, you may be dreaming of a relaxing getaway with your loved ones.

You can actually turn this dream into reality with a trip to Colmar in winter.

We found so many perfect spots in this city for wandering hand-in-hand with your special someone and some famous attractions that your family will definitely enjoy.

So, stick with us, and we’ll provide everything you need to know to plan the best winter trip itinerary. 

We’ll cover the basics like weather and transportation, highlight the must-see spots, suggest activities, and throw in some day trip ideas so you don’t miss out on the best winter moments in Colmar.

Table of Contents

Weather in Colmar During Winter

colmar-in-winter

Colmar, up in northeastern France along the Alsatian Wine Route, goes through the usual four seasons thanks to its mix of continental and oceanic climate. 

Winters in Colmar set up a cool vibe, making it pretty ideal for the holiday season.

You get these chilly but not bone-chilling temperatures from December to February, with 5.6°C to 10°C (42°F to 50°F).

It’s not your typical frozen European destination like Kiruna and Rovaniemi – Colmar keeps things on the milder side.

But remember, it can still get quite cold, mostly at night or if there’s a winter storm blowing through.

So, make sure to bundle up, especially if you are sensitive to cold temperatures.

How Long Does the Sun Rise in Colmar During Winter?

The sunrise and sunset times in Colmar during winter change a bit.

In November, the sun comes up around 7:50 am, giving you about 9 hours of daylight. The skies are usually clear this month, making everything look pretty.

December is a bit later, with the sun showing up at about 8:30 am and setting around 4:40 pm, so you get around 8 hours of sunshine.

But still, the Christmas markets are pretty awesome during this month and make up for the shorter days.

January keeps the sunrise the same, with sunsets around 5:05 pm, so you get 8 and a half hours of daylight.

It might be cold during this time, but the snowy landscapes and fewer crowds make it kind of relaxing.

Then, February starts with the sun rising around 7:50 am and setting late at about 5:55 pm, giving you 10 hours of sunshine.

No matter the month, the sunrise and sunset scenes reflecting off those colorful buildings in Colmar are pretty amazing – we were really in awe of this. 

And note that despite lots of sunny days, you’ll also often get gray skies. So, make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out.

Does It Rain In Colmar During Winter?

Colmar’s winter weather can be a bit damp and rainy, averaging around seven rainy days per month.

November sees the most rain, with 48.3mm (1.9 inches) of precipitation, but it eases up in January and March. 

So, if you’re thinking of checking out Colmar in the off-season, pack some layers and maybe some rain gear.

It’s handy for walking around and doing wine tastings, even if there’s a bit of drizzle. 

But keep in mind that when heavy rain happens, it usually doesn’t stick around for long.

Does It Snow in Colmar?

Snow happens in Colmar in the winter, but it is not that extreme. It’s just the perfect way to give the city’s streets and chateaus a nice white coating.

So, get ready for some chill and maybe a snow shower or two. 

Winter Temperature in Colmar

Winter in Colmar means cool air, some rain and snow, and a good dose of sunshine. 

During the daytime, the average temperature is typically about 7.5°C(45.5°F), cold enough to need a warm coat but mild enough to be pleasant in the sunshine. 

At night, it can dip into 4.4°C(40°F). Colmar is like the off-season sweet spot for folks who want that old-school holiday charm without dealing with crazy cold or heavy snow. 

Month             Min Temp (°C)       Max Temp (°C)     Average Temp      Precipitation (mm)

November      2.8°C(37°F)          16.1°C(61°F)         10°C(50°F)            48.3mm(1.9in) 

December      -2.8°C(27°F)          17.2°C(63°F)         5.6°C(42°F)           48.3mm(1.9in) 

January           1.1°C(34°F)           16.1°C(61°F)         6.7°C(44°F)           40.7mm(1.6in) 

February         2.2°C(36°F)            15°C(59°F)           7.8°C(46°F)           35.6mm(1.4in)

Best Things To Do In Colmar In Winter

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Colmar really comes alive once the holiday season rolls around.

And winter undeniably leaves more room to breathe in the alleyways and allows you to truly take in the sights.

So, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Colmar during the cozier months. 

Explore Impressive Arts in Colmar’s Museums 

Colmar has several small yet impressive museums that showcase European art spanning centuries. 

And winter’s the sweet spot for checking them out – no crazy tourist crowds. 

So, if you’re into experiencing the culture and art in Colmar, this is the time to do it. Here are some solid museum collections you can dig into:

Wander Through Unterlinden Museum’s Fine Art Collections

unterlinden-museums-in-colmar

You gotta check out Colmar’s Unterlinden Museum in winter—it’s this cool spot with medieval and Renaissance art in a 13th-century former convent. 

You’ll get to see the Isenheim Altarpiece here. It was really stunning to see in person – the details were incredible.

Also, don’t miss out on some saintly Gothic sculptures.

Stroll further to see a mix of stuff, from 15th-century engravings by Martin Schongauer to Auguste Rodin’s sculptures. 

They’re open from Wednesday to Monday from 9 am to 6 pm. We’d greatly recommend going early in the day to avoid any crowds.

Admission is €13 for adults, but if you’re a student, family, or rolling with a group, there are discounts. 

Just be aware of the shorter winter hours, and always double-check their website for any last-minute closures during the holidays.

Taste Gourmet Chocolate Creations at Musée Gourmand du Chocolat – Choco-Story

choco-story-museums-in-colmar

If you’re into chocolate and find yourself in Colmar, the Musée Gourmand du Chocolat – Choco-Story is the spot for you.

This is undoubtedly our favorite activity in Colmar. You can witness some chocolate demonstrations and grab some chocolate tastings here.

You can even make your own winter chocolate treats with the help of expert chocolatiers. 

One of the fun moments we had was choosing the toppings for our chocolate, as there were so many options.

But the majority of us still went for lots of marshmallow toppings.

So, visit the museum now and experience this activity. They are open every day from 10 am to 6 pm.

Pro tip – snag those tickets online because they tend to sell out fast, and you definitely don’t want to miss this out. 

> Grab This Chocolate Museum Entrance Ticket

If you’re a chocolate buff and want to explore more about chocolate making, you might want to check out their workshop.

> Join the 45-minute Chocolate Making Workshop at Choco-Story

Discover Ancient Manuscripts at the Dominicains Heritage Library and Museum

manusripts-of-dominicains-library-colmar

For those who love medieval manuscripts and old printed books, Dominicains Heritage Library and Museum in Colmar is the perfect place for that.

It is right in the “Little Venice” area along the Lauch River, and it’s just a 15-minute stroll from Colmar Train Station.

The museum is housed in an old Dominican convent from the 13th century, giving off some serene vibes away from the usual tourist hustle. 

It also had this Renaissance architecture that we really loved.

They’ve got these neat hand-drawn illustrations, giving you a peek into what’s happening in the Middle Ages and also some architecture.

We were really amazed by all the details of the drawings in the books.

Planning a visit is chill. They’re open Monday to Friday, between 1 pm and 6 pm.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, they roll in at 10 am and keep the doors open until 6 pm.

What’s great is that you can visit the museum for free! It’s definitely an awesome activity if you’re visiting Colmar in winter.

View Iconic Sculptures at the Bartholdi Museum

bartholdi-museums-in-colmar
Photo Credit: Tadzo/Depositphotos.com

Visiting Bartholdi Museum is probably one of the best things to do in Lyon in winter. 

It is just right in Colmar’s old town. If you’re planning to drop by, the museum’s at 30 Rue des Marchands, just a 10-minute walk from the central train station.

You’ll get to see Bartholdi’s life here through sketches and sculpture masterpieces.

Other exhibits also include early versions of the Statue of Liberty and The Abolition of Slavery statue.

Ticket rates are totally worth it – €5 for adults and €4 for anyone under 18 years old. 

So, let Colmar’s iconic sculptures and rich history spice up your winter vibes.

Learn About Colmar’s History at the Hansi Village and Its Museum

colmar-museums-hansi-village
Photo Credit: Marugod83/Depositphotos.com

We greatly suggest you explore Colmar’s rich history by visiting the Hansi Village and Museum.

Here’s a little info for you: Hansi Village serves as a tribute to the renowned early 20th-century illustrator Jean-Jacques Waltz, aka Hansi.

His illustrations were all about sketching the Alsatian scene back in the day. 

Inside the joint, they have a museum featuring Hansi’s artwork, and we’ve also learned a lot here about the local history and folklore from the exhibits.

And if you are hungry, don’t worry, they have a restaurant on the ground floor.

You can visit the museum every day from 10 am to 6:30 pm, but watch out for holidays – they might be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Entry here is free. So, don’t hesitate to visit the museum in the winter.

See Toys Through the Ages at Musée du Jouet (Toy Museum)

toys-museums-in-colmar
Photo Credit: ms_pics_and_more/Depositphotos.com

The Musée du Jouet in Colmar is a hit for tourists even in winter. You can easily reach the museum as it is just located in the city center.

It has over 1,000 toys on display across three floors. Our younger cousins were really impressed by all the toys here, and we’re sure that your kids will be, too.

You’ll find all sorts of toys from different times and places – old dolls, puppets, toy soldiers, toy animals, and even train sets. 

But note that the museum requires entrance fees – €7 for a regular ticket.

But the great deal here is that kiddos under 5 get a free pass, making it very family-friendly.

You can visit the museum every weekend (Saturday and Sunday) from 10 am to 5 pm to witness the impressive collection.

Shop for Unique Gifts and Treats 

Colmar, in winter, has colorful and well-decorated half-timbered houses, making it an ideal place to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs. 

Boutiques and local artisan shops here line the winding alleys, offering handmade crafts, delicacies, and many more.

So, bundle up and take a winter stroll through Colmar to find that special memento of your trip to this charming French town.

Discover Products at Douceurs et Plaisirs D’Alsace

france-wines-in-winter
Photo Credit: vasilygureev/Depositphotos.com

Douceurs et Plaisirs d’Alsace is this cozy shopping spot with all sorts of local goodies.

This shop in the old town is perfect for anyone who is into quality stuff, especially during the holidays.

They’ve got some real Alsatian Christmas dishes and sweets. What we really loved here was their Foie gras.

The subtle flavors of the duck liver blended beautifully with the sweet accents in the dish, and the texture was so rich and creamy. 

You should totally go for this one when you hit up the store.

They’ve also got this wide selection of Alsatian wines, and what really impressed us was the Riesling – light and sweet.

And if you’re into beers, they’ve got some you can grab right here.

There’s no charge to just wander in and check things out. So, feel free to visit the shop from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 6 pm.

Just a heads up: it can get packed on weekends and peak market days. Also, parking’s a bit tight on the street. 

But despite the potential crowds, we can really say that this little shop is absolutely worth visiting for a true taste of Christmas in Alsace.

Explore the World of Minerals at Le Monde Des Minéraux

le-monde-des-mineraux-colmar

If you find yourself in Colmar in winter, check out Le Monde Des Minéraux. The store is housed in a pretty old building that screams Alsatian charm. 

They have a large mineral collection from all over the globe. You can actually touch the stones, compare textures, and get the lowdown on geological wonders. 

But it’s not just minerals; they also sell paintings and decorations. We got some decorations for our home, and they did not disappoint.

Transport-wise, it’s right in the city center. So, if you’re coming by train or bus, it will take you just about 15 minutes to walk from Colmar Station to the store.

This whole holiday vibe and looking into the mineral world completed our holiday trip to Colmar in winter. 

Shop Some Souvenirs at Savonnerie Scala

savonnerie-scala-colmar-soaps

Savonnerie Scala in Colmar’s Petite Venise is all about local vibes, making their own floral soaps and skincare stuff, totally inspired by Alsatian traditions. 

They have these iconic cube soaps in different bright and pleasing colors, all smelling like local flowers and herbs.

We couldn’t stop ourselves from buying, so we ended up getting a total of 7 soaps.

If you’re planning to visit, the store is located at 13 Rue de l’Ange, just about a 20-minute walk from the central station.

But if you’re not a fan of walking, you can also hail a taxi for a quick ride.

Browse Stalls in Marché Couvert Colmar (Covered Market)

colmar-covered-market-in-winter
Photo Credit: Hackman/Depositphotos.com

Head to Marché Couvert Colmar in winter to explore many goodies – think produce, pastries, cheeses, and many more. 

They also serve local delights like our favorites, flammekueche, and choucroute garnie. 

The place itself is a charmer. It’s been around a while, and they’ve got a stone structure and arched windows – giving off that upscale country-market feel.

So, if you’re thinking of hitting up Marché Couvert Colmar, plan your visit right.

They’re open Tuesday to Wednesday from 8 am to 6 pm. Then, on Thursday, they start early at 7 am.

Friday’s schedule is from 8 am to 7 pm, while Saturday ends early at 5 PM. Then, Sunday has short hours, from 10 am to 2 pm. 

Note that they are closed on Mondays. We’d greatly recommend going either early morning or afternoon to beat the crowds.

Even if you don’t buy anything here, Marché Couvert Colmar is still a must-see for food lovers visiting Colmar in the winter.

The cozy, vibrant atmosphere was the perfect break from the cold weather outside.

Take a Guided Tour to See the City’s Sights

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have lived in Colmar for years, this tour will provide you with a glimpse of our landmarks, history, culture, and more. 

The local guides will ensure you don’t miss anything along the way, so be sure to have your camera ready as you explore the best sights this city has to offer!

Roll Through the City on a Segway

segway-tours-in-colmar

If you’re craving a relaxing time in Colmar while sightseeing in the city, join a Segway tour.

They are usually the ones that provide helmets and wheels for you, so you don’t have to worry about it. 

There’s also a training before doing the tour. We were a bit nervous at first since we had never ridden a Segway before, but the training session really helped us feel comfortable.

You’ll get to hit up the ‘Quartier des Maraichers,’ the forest, the Old City Center, and many more. It’s like a combo of history and nature vibes. 

So, if you’re planning a tour, keep in mind that it’s safer to go for a daytime tour because visibility is better compared to nighttime. 

Also, always watch out for the crowds. It can get pretty busy, so be sure to drive defensively and give way to pedestrians. 

> Experience a 2-Hour Segway Tour in Colmar

Stroll Through the Streets on a Walking Tour

walking-tours-in-colmar

Taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to explore the sights of Lyon in the winter.

The cool air makes a leisurely stroll comfortable, and the city takes on a lovely ambiance during the holiday season.

Some of the top attractions you’ll see along the way include Champ de Mars and the Bartholdi Museum, where the sculptor Auguste Bartholdi is featured with a collection of his most iconic masterpieces.

Also, don’t miss out on Fontaine Roesselmann, a quirky multicolored fountain in Colmar.

As you walk from site to site, your local guide will provide interesting tidbits and history to bring the landmarks to life.

We even discovered this tiny family-run cafe through our guide that we never would have found otherwise.

These tours work well for all types of groups – couples, families, and friends.

The key here is to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear so you can fully enjoy the experience without distractions.

We also advise you to bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.

So, with an easygoing attitude and a curiosity to explore, walking tours make for wonderful Lyon memories.

> Get Your Hands on This Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour

Feel the Holiday Spirit With Colmar’s Winter Activities

Winter is an absolutely enchanting time to experience the magic of Colmar. And undoubtedly, its winter activities will put you in a warm, happy, and jolly mood.

Here are some activities you can do in Colmar in winter:

Stroll Through Festive Christmas Markets (Marché de Noël)

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Photo Credit: alfredosaz.gmail.com/Depositphotos.com

If you’re up for a cool Christmas vibe, visit the Christmas markets in Colmar. They are legit ancient, dating back to the 14th century. 

The town center goes all out with lights, giving you a cozy walk through old-school streets filled with stalls selling handmade Christmas stuff. 

What we really loved here was to chill while sipping some mulled wine or hot cider at Place des Dominicains.

They also have goodies that you can grab, like bretzels, gingerbread, and Kugelhopf cakes. 

Feel free to visit the Christmas Markets every Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm. Then, from Friday to Sunday, they extend until 8 pm.

We’d greatly recommend going in the evening when everything is lit up. It’s absolutely magical!

Go Ice Skating at Place Rapp

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Come feel the winter vibes in Colmar at Place Rapp. The main square becomes an open-air ice skating rink when it gets chilly.

Anyone can join the icy fun – no matter your skill level or age.

We’ll admit that we’re not the best skaters, but gliding around that picturesque square with the decorated buildings all around made us feel as if we were in a Hallmark movie.

For the prices, it’s 2.50 euros to get in, and if you need skates, that’s an extra 2.50 euros for the rental.

Winter Season In Colmar

Winter in Colmar has this cool vibe that adds a bit of magic to the town. 

You won’t be bored from November to February because there’s always something happening.

You can skate with friends or check out the Christmas markets for cool handmade gifts and warm spiced wine. 

It’s a nice time to experience the local scene and enjoy the cozy vibes that Colmar nails so effortlessly.

Colmar in November

Colmar brings in cooler weather, around 10°C (50°F). The days are still decently lit, making it a good time to explore the town. 

Here are the special events in November that you shouldn’t miss:

St. Martin’s Day Lantern Festival

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On November 11th, kids in Calmor celebrate St. Martin’s Day.

They usually parade through the streets after dark, proudly carrying their homemade lanterns. 

We really loved seeing the excitement on their faces as they showed off their lanterns to friends. 

They usually gather in the town square at 5 pm. Don’t miss this one out; it’s a charming local tradition.

Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Celebrations

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The third Thursday of November marks the release of the new Beaujolais Nouveau wine at midnight in France.

This is the event in Colmar that we were really excited about. 

The city joins the celebration with wine bars and shops hosting tastings and events. Make sure you’re around for that.

Colmar Christmas Markets

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Starting at the end of November, the highly acclaimed Colmar Christmas Market opens its doors to everyone. Most of the Christmas Markets have over 100 stalls. 

You can stroll through timber chalets, sampling roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and handmade goods here.

They are definitely must-visits for a dose of Christmas magic.

Colmar in December

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December is a cool time to check out Colmar, with temperatures hovering around 5.6°C (42°F), just right for sipping mulled wine at the Christmas markets and still wandering around without freezing.

Just make sure to bundle up right during this time.

The event that you should really look forward to in Colmar in December is its New Year’s Eve scene.

We were able to snag a place by the Old Town canal, where we enjoyed the fantastic fireworks. 

The view was spot-on, blending perfectly with those classic timbered houses lining the canal in the Old Town.

So, make sure to stick around, dance, drink, and feel the festive vibes till the night’s done.

Colmar in January

January in Colmar is pretty cool, with temperatures around 6.7°C (44°F).

While many places in Europe are slowing down in winter, Colmar is buzzing with special activities. 

You can watch all the festive decorations and light displays around the town at this time.

Also, it’s a great time to explore its cobblestone streets and those colorful medieval-style buildings.

Colmar in February

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In February, Colmar’s got this winter vibe going on, with temperatures hanging around 7.8°C (46°C). It’s not exactly beach weather, but it’s kinda nice – less touristy.

So, they’ve got this Saint Valentine’s Day event happening that adds a bit of warmth to the shortest month of the year.

During this time, the old town is all charming, making it the perfect scene for a stroll with your special someone on February 14.

You can even exchange gifts and have a cozy French dinner by candlelight at one of Colmar’s bistros or cafés.

So, if you’re looking for date night inspiration, you really can’t go wrong with spending Valentine’s Day in Colmar.

What To Eat In Colmar In Winter

When the cold weather sets in, the charming French town of Colmar comes alive with seasonal delicacies and comfort foods. 

Here are the highlights of what to eat in Colmar in winter:

Mulled Wine

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Start your munching adventure with a cup of mulled wine (Vin Chaud) from almost every food stall.

We always crave that mulled wine from the little booth near the Old Town. It’s like a warm, spicy hug in a cup that you’ll find hard to resist during winter.

Bredele

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Don’t pass up on Bredele; these Alsatian Christmas cookies come in flavors like anise, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

They’re like little bites of holiday cheer, readily available at bakery stalls.

We cannot forget how cool the baker was for letting us taste a bunch of flavors before we made up our minds. We ended up snagging the cinnamon ones – a must-try.

Hot Chocolate

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If you’re craving something sweet and cozy, grab a rich, thick hot chocolate.

Top it with some whipped cream or marshmallows if you’re into that, but if not, plain works just fine. It’s the perfect treat while strolling through the markets.

Flammkuchen

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For a savory kick, try the Flammkuchen, an Alsatian flatbread with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.

We even asked for some extra onions, and the taste didn’t disappoint. It’s crispy, warm, and basically comfort food on the go.

Choucroute Garnie

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One of the foods in Colmar that you shouldn’t miss out on is the Choucroute Garnie.

It is loaded with sauerkraut and assorted cured and smoked meats. This hearty and meaty masterpiece will surely keep you fueled for exploring.

Baeckeoffe

baeckeoffe-colmar-winter-foods

If you’re at Colmar in the winter, make sure to warm up with Baeckeoffe.

It is a slow-cooked casserole with beef, pork, lamb, and potatoes simmered in Alsatian white wine. 

You’ll find the best ones in restaurants like Le Fer Rouge.

Kugelhopf

kugelhopf-winter-foods

To satisfy your sweet tooth during winter in Colmar, make sure to try their Kugelhopf.

It is a light-yeasted cake loaded with raisins and almonds. It’s an iconic Alsatian pastry, and you can snag it at Pâtisserie Gilg near Little Venice.

Getting Around Colmar in Winter

Navigating Colmar in winter is easy with these transportation options

Wander by Foot

Colmar is best explored on foot, especially in winter.

Just make sure to bundle up and wear thermal clothes, especially if you’re sensitive to cold temperatures.

Make sure to check out cool spots like the Unterlinden Museum, Koïfhus medieval building, and Bartholdi Fountain – all within easy walking distance.

Ride a Bike

Biking is a great option, too, considering Colmar has a bunch of bike paths. Also, the flat terrain of the city makes cycling so easy. 

Grab a bike from a local shop or hop on the town’s bike share. 

Take a Public Transportation

If your feet need a break, the town’s public transport is top-notch.

They have trains, buses that can take you to many spots around town, and a free shuttle that whisks you between attractions like Petite Venise and the Colmar Train Station. 

You can even grab a day pass for unlimited rides; just make sure to plan your route ahead.

Hail a Taxi

Taxi got your back if you’re feeling lazy or have limited mobility.

You can book through the apps or dial up a local taxi. It’s perfect for those post-dinner or late-night rides back to your hotel.

Day Trips From Colmar in Winter

Don’t ever let the cold of Colmar deter you from a day trip or two out of the city to enjoy the snow-globe villages and Yuletide markets of Alsace. 

So, bundle up and discover the amazing sceneries across France.

Day Trip to Strasbourg

strasbourg-france-in-winter

Strasbourg makes for a solid winter day trip from Colmar; it’s easily accessible by train, taking less than 45 minutes and costing around €15 each way.

If you’re up for it, there are buses, too. But they’re a bit more sluggish, taking about an hour, though they’re lighter on the wallet.

Strasbourg in winter has that festive vibe with its Christmas markets, views of Strasbourg Cathedral, and a couple of modern art joints like Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain. 

Pro tips: Make sure to start as early as possible so that you can visit the most well-known spots in Strasbourg and carry some cash with you.

Also, keep an eye on the weather and train schedules.

Paris Day Trip

paris-france-in-winter

Colmar is a good kick-off spot for a winter day trip to Paris.

The city’s train does the job, getting you straight from Colmar to Paris Gare de L’Est in about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Snagging train tickets online beforehand is usually in the €81 to €138 range for a one-way ticket.

You can’t miss the Eiffel Tower when going to Paris.

So, make sure to book your tickets ahead of time, as this is likely to sell out fast. The tower is open every day from 9:30 am to 10:45 pm.

> Get This Eiffel Tower Entry Ticket with Optional Summit Access

Other main attractions in Paris that you shouldn’t miss include the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Elysées and Notre Dame Cathedral. 

And if you’re an art buff like us, the Louvre is a must-go. It’s a massive museum with lots of amazing ancient art.

Plus, the whole place is like an architectural masterpiece, so it’s not just about the art; the whole vibe is something else.

When you’re heading back to Gare de L’Est, budget at least 30 minutes for the trip back, taking into account security lines and any schedule changes.

With a bit of planning, you can hit up the main sights in Paris on a day trip from Colmar, even in the winter. 

Day Trip to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg (Castle of Haut-Koenigsbourg)

castle-of-haut-koenigsbourg

Take a quick winter day trip from Colmar to check out the medieval Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, just a 30-minute drive away. 

But, if you’re gonna take public transportation, it will take you about 1 and 45 minutes to reach the castle.

What we really loved going to this place was that we were able to see some charming villages and vineyards along the way. 

Pro tips: consider hopping on a bus tour to dodge any icy road worries—it’s about 30 km, and that twisty mountain road can get a bit slippery. 

Also, make sure you gear up for winter conditions so you’ll have a sweet time exploring the frosty Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg from Colmar.

You can visit the castle every day from 9:30 am to 12 noon. Note that they are taking a break, and they resume in the afternoon, from 1:30 pm until 4:15 pm.

So, plan your visit accordingly to align with these opening hours. Also, bring some cash because there are entrance fees – €12 for adults and €8 for children.

Dijon Day Trip

dijon-france-in-winter

Dijon, in Burgundy’s wine country, makes a cool day trip from Colmar, especially in winter. It’s a 250km train ride that takes about 2 hours.

From late November through December, Dijon’s Christmas markets on Place de la Liberation are pretty neat, showcasing local stuff. 

And don’t miss out on the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, which gets you into Dijon’s history for around €2.3. 

Dijon’s got good food, too – cozy up in winstubs for classic Burgundian eats or try the famous kir cocktail.

Remember to check winter hours for reduced openings and see if places are accessible.

What’s Your Favorite Thing About Visiting Colmar in the Winter Months?

Winter is indeed an awesome time to hit up Colmar. It may be cold, but the holiday charm makes up for it. 

We’re talking Christmas markets with wines, local gifts, and music that put you right in the festive spirit.

The frosting of snow makes it feel even more Christmas-y, too.

Plus, it’s less crowded so you can really take in the sights at places like the art and history museums. 

They also have winter foods like bredele cookies and baeckeoffe stew that will surely warm you right up. 

If you really want a charming European getaway to get that winter glow, Colmar is it. The holiday feels make braving the cold so worth it.

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