Family-Friendly Adventures in Colmar, France!

Little Venice (Petite Venise)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting neighborhood of Little Venice (Petite Venise) in Colmar, France! This picturesque area, known for its colorful half-timbered houses and flower-lined canals, is perfect for a family adventure.

Morning

Start your day at the heart of Little Venice, by entering from the Rue Turenne bridge. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Quai de la Poissonnerie, where fishermen and merchants once bustled. This area is accessible by foot or by a short drive from Colmar city center, with parking available at Rapp-Centre.

Boat Tour

Next, hop on a flat-bottomed boat for a guided tour along the canal. This 25-minute ride offers a unique view of the district’s charming architecture and insights into its fascinating history. Boats leave regularly from the launch point near Rue de la Poissonnerie.

Lunch

Enjoy a delightful lunch at one of the canal-side restaurants serving local Alsacian cuisine. Try the traditional "tarte flambée" or "choucroute garnie" for a taste of the region.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Musée du Jouet (Toy Museum), just a 10-minute walk from Little Venice via Grand Rue. This magical museum showcases toys from the 19th century to today, fascinating both kids and adults alike.

Evening

Conclude your day with a walk to the nearby Saint Martin"s Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It’s just a short 5-minute walk back towards the center.

Interesting Fact

Did you know that Little Venice was named after its picturesque canals and colorful houses, which are reminiscent of Venice, Italy, but on a smaller scale?

This itinerary offers a blend of exploratory, culinary, and educational experiences that are sure to delight every member of the family while creating lasting memories of Little Venice. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Colmar Old Town (Vieux Colmar)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting Colmar Old Town, a fairy-tale escape perfect for a family adventure! Embark on a journey where charming cobblestone streets and colorful half-timbered houses transport you back in time. Here"s how you can make the most out of your visit:

Morning: Start at Little Venice

Arrive early to explore the picturesque Little Venice (La Petite Venise), the perfect starting point for a family stroll. You can easily reach this area by walking from the Colmar train station, about a 15-minute walk, or by local buses. Take a boat tour along the canal to see the town from the water – a magical experience for kids and adults alike! Don"t forget to capture the vibrant houses lining the waterways with your camera.

Midday: Unterlinden Museum

Next, head to the Unterlinden Museum, just a 10-minute walk from Little Venice. Housed in a 13th-century convent, this museum offers a mix of medieval and modern art. The highlight for the little ones will likely be the intricate Isenheim Altarpiece, which features engaging, dramatic imagery that sparks curiosity about history and art.

Afternoon: St. Martin"s Church and Local Market

After the museum, walk over to St. Martin"s Church, just a 5-minute walk away. This Gothic church is a visual treat with its stunning stained glass windows. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful interiors. Following your visit, explore the local markets nearby, where you can shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies like kouglof (a brioche-like cake) — a sweet treat the kids will love.

Evening: Dinner and Stroll

Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the traditional Alsatian restaurants in the Old Town, offering dishes like tarte flambée that the whole family can enjoy. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town; the evening lights make the colorful buildings look even more magical.

Visiting Colmar Old Town offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, ensuring a memorable trip for families looking to explore the heart of Alsace.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pfister House (Maison Pfister)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the enchanting Pfister House, a gem in the heart of Colmar, France, perfect for a family-friendly exploration! Begin your adventure at this iconic 1537 residence, known for its early Renaissance architecture. The house, located at 11 Rue des Marchands, is easily accessible by foot from anywhere in central Colmar.

Morning: Explore Pfister House

Start your day by marveling at Pfister House’s exquisite exterior, featuring murals, a wooden gallery, and an oriel window that spans two floors. It"s a great opportunity to teach kids about medieval architecture and the Renaissance influence in Europe. Don"t miss capturing family photos with the beautifully preserved building as your backdrop!

Lunch Break: Local Cuisine

Around noon, head to one of the nearby traditional Alsatian restaurants. Try “La Maison des Têtes” for local specialties like tarte flambée, enjoyed in a building almost as historic as Pfister House itself.

Afternoon: Boat Tour and Bartholdi Museum

Post-lunch, take a short walk to the launch point for a flat-bottomed boat tour along Colmar"s canals. These "Little Venice" tours offer a fantastic view of the town from the water and are very engaging for children. Afterwards, visit the Bartholdi Museum, just a 7-minute walk away. This museum is dedicated to the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, and offers interactive exhibits that are perfect for young minds.

Evening: Stroll and Gelato

End your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Colmar. As you wander, enjoy the fairy-tale ambiance of the town. Stop by “Gelateria Alba” for some delicious gelato—a hit with kids and adults alike!

This itinerary combines historical learning, fun activities, and delicious treats, ensuring that every family member has a memorable time at Pfister House and its surroundings. Enjoy your trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Unterlinden Museum (Musee Unterlinden)

Why Visit?

A delightful day awaits your family at the Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden) in Colmar, a gem nestled in the heart of Alsace. Easily accessible at Place Unterlinden, the museum is a short walk from Colmar’s historic center and can be reached by local bus lines stopping nearby, or by car with ample parking options in the city.

Start your visit around 10 AM to make the most of the day. The museum, housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent, presents a fascinating blend of medieval architecture and modern expansion, which includes a new building designed by the renowned architects Herzog & de Meuron.

Begin your tour with the museum’s star attraction, the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterwork of German Renaissance art by Matthias Grünewald. This piece is particularly engaging for children, with its vibrant colors and dramatic imagery. Discuss the fascinating history behind the altarpiece, originally created for a monastery hospital, and its themes of suffering and redemption — great conversation starters on history and art.

Explore the museum"s vast collection ranging from prehistoric to contemporary art. The medieval and Renaissance sculptures and paintings are particularly captivating. Be sure not to miss the modern art section, which features works by Picasso and Léger that will intrigue and inspire young minds.

Take a midday break at the museum’s café, which offers kid-friendly meals and a chance to relax in a scenic setting. Post lunch, join a family workshop or a guided tour specifically tailored for children, available on select days, which make the art more accessible and enjoyable for younger visitors.

Wrap up your visit by strolling through the Cloister Garden, a peaceful spot that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant art inside. It’s perfect for a family photo to remember your day at the Musée Unterlinden!

This enriching experience combines education, history, and fun, making it a perfect cultural outing for your family in Colmar.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

St. Martin"s Church (Eglise St-Martin)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Day Trip to St. Martin"s Church (Eglise St-Martin)

Morning Arrival

Start your day at St. Martin"s Church, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of town. Arrive by local bus or taxi, which are convenient options as they frequently stop near the church. If you"re driving, nearby street parking is available. Aim to get there by 9 AM to enjoy the site in the quieter morning hours.

Exploring St. Martin"s Church

Built in the 12th century, St. Martin"s Church boasts a stunning mix of architectural styles, reflecting its long history. Take a self-guided tour starting from the beautiful facade and moving inside to see the intricate stained glass windows and the impressive organ. Don"t miss the carved wooden pulpit, a masterpiece from the 17th century. The church often hosts small concerts, so check the schedule for a chance to hear the organ in action—a magical experience for all ages.

Lunch Break

Around noon, head to a nearby café. Many family-friendly restaurants around the church offer delightful local cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal and sample some regional specialties.

Afternoon Stroll

After lunch, take a walk to the local market, just a 10-minute walk from the church. Here, you can explore stalls filled with crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs. It"s a great place for kids to learn about local culture and for adults to pick up unique items.

Evening Wind Down

Cap off your day with a visit to the nearby park, where kids can play and adults can relax amidst scenic views. It’s a short 5-minute walk from the market and offers a peaceful setting to reflect on your day’s experiences.

Conclusion

St. Martin"s Church and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of cultural history, local flavor, and relaxation, making it a perfect family day out. Enjoy your trip to this charming and historical site!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.