Petite Venise: Colmar's Charming Canals
Discover the enchanting canals and colorful half-timbered houses of Colmar's Petite Venise, a picturesque district brimming with Alsatian charm and Venetian inspiration.
Petite Venise, or Little Venice, is Colmar's most iconic and picturesque district, a must-see for any visitor. This enchanting area is defined by its network of canals, lined with colorful half-timbered houses dating back to the 14th and 18th centuries. Originally a marshland area used for market gardening, the canals were vital for transporting produce to the market. Today, the waterways offer a tranquil and romantic atmosphere, reminiscent of Venice, Italy. Visitors can explore the area on foot, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant flower displays, or take a leisurely boat trip along the Lauch River. Petite Venise is also home to numerous restaurants, winstubs, and boutiques, making it a delightful place to spend an afternoon or evening. The district's unique blend of Alsatian charm and Venetian inspiration makes it an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Petite Venise Colmar
- 20 Rue des Tanneurs, Colmar, 68000, FR
Local tips
- Take a boat tour for a unique perspective of Petite Venise's canals and architecture.
- Visit the Marché Couvert (Covered Market) to sample local produce and delicacies.
- Explore the area on foot to discover hidden gems and charming details.
- Enjoy a traditional Alsatian meal at one of the many restaurants or winstubs in the district.
- Visit during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christmas market and festive decorations.
Getting There
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Walking
Petite Venise is easily accessible on foot from most central locations in Colmar. From the Unterlinden Museum, walk east along Rue Unterlinden, then turn right onto Rue des Tanneurs. Continue straight; Petite Venise will be on your left. From the Colmar train station, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Exit the station and walk along Avenue de la République, cross Place Rapp, and continue onto Rue des Tanneurs. Follow the street until you reach Petite Venise. The area is well-signposted.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus, several lines stop near the city center. From the bus station (near the Colmar train station), follow the walking directions above. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Colmar. A short taxi ride from the train station or another location in the city center to Petite Venise will cost approximately €8-€12. Be aware that availability may be limited, especially during peak season.
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Driving
Parking near Petite Venise can be challenging, especially during peak season. Several parking garages are located within walking distance, including Parking Saint-Josse (Rue Saint-Josse) and Parking Rapp (Avenue de la République). Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour, with daily rates around €15-€20. Street parking is also available in some areas, but it is often limited and may have time restrictions. During the Colmar Wine Fair, there are secured parking options available for €2 per day.
Discover more about Petite Venise Colmar
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Fishmonger District
0.0 km
Discover Colmar's charming Fishmonger District: a historic canal-side neighborhood with colorful architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.
Quartier des Tanneurs
0.1 km
Discover Colmar's Quartier des Tanneurs: A charming historical district with half-timbered houses, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage.
Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane
0.2 km
Discover Place de l'Ancienne Douane in Colmar: a historic square with charming architecture, a vibrant Christmas market, and access to city attractions.
Schwendi Fountain
0.2 km
Discover the iconic Schwendi Fountain in Colmar, a tribute to Lazarus von Schwendi and Alsatian wine history, designed by Bartholdi.
Place de l'Ancienne Douane
0.2 km
Discover Place de l'Ancienne Douane in Colmar: a historic square with charming architecture, vibrant markets, and an unforgettable Alsatian experience.
Koïfhus
0.2 km
Discover Colmar's oldest public building, the Koïfhus, a historic customs house showcasing Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Maison Kern
0.2 km
Discover Maison Kern in Colmar: A stunning Renaissance monument on the picturesque Place du Marché aux Fruits, showcasing Alsatian architectural heritage.
Vieille ville
0.2 km
Explore Colmar's Vieille Ville: a charming blend of history, architecture, and Alsatian culture in a fairytale setting.
The House of the St. John's Knights
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Discover Colmar's architectural gem: The House of the St. John's Knights, a stunning Venetian-style building with a mysterious past.
Au Vieux Pignon
0.2 km
Discover Alsatian treasures at Au Vieux Pignon in Colmar: handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and a charming glimpse into regional culture.
Les Bateliers
0.2 km
Experience authentic Alsatian cuisine in a charming canal-side setting at Les Bateliers restaurant in Colmar's Petite Venise.
La Petite Venise
0.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of La Petite Venise, a historical gem in Colmar known for its canals, colorful houses, and vibrant culture.
Alsatian Wines Museum
0.3 km
Explore Alsace's winemaking heritage at the Alsatian Wines Museum in Colmar, offering interactive exhibits and tasting experiences.
Choco Story Colmar
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Explore the history of chocolate from bean to bar at this interactive Colmar museum, complete with tastings and chocolate-making demonstrations.
Zum Kragen
0.3 km
Explore Zum Kragen, a captivating historical landmark in Colmar, France, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quai de la Poissonnerie
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting Quai de la Poissonnerie in Colmar, where vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delightful cuisine come together along the scenic canals.
Rue Des Tanneurs
0.1 km
Step back in time on Colmar's Rue des Tanneurs, a picturesque street lined with colorful, half-timbered houses that once housed the city's tanners, now filled with artisan shops and Alsatian charm.
Rue des Vignerons
0.1 km
Explore Rue des Vignerons in Colmar, a beautiful street filled with half-timbered houses, wine shops, and delightful cafés reflecting Alsatian culture.
Fontaine du vigneron
0.1 km
A charming tribute to Alsatian winemaking by Statue of Liberty sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the Fontaine du Vigneron is a must-see landmark in Colmar's historic heart.
Grande roue de Colmar
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Colmar and the Alsace region from the Grande Roue, a must-visit attraction offering a unique perspective on this charming city.
Museum of Natural History and Ethnography
0.1 km
Explore the wonders of nature and culture at Colmar's Museum of Natural History and Ethnography, home to diverse collections from around the globe and the only Egyptian exhibit in Alsace.
Cruce Rue Merciers / Grand Rue
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Colmar at Cruce Rue Merciers / Grand Rue, where historic architecture, Alsatian charm, and culinary delights converge in a picturesque setting.
Square de la Montagne Verte
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Square de la Montagne Verte in Colmar, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Place du 2 Février
0.2 km
Discover Place du 2 Février in Colmar: a serene park with historical significance, surrounded by architectural gems, offering a tranquil escape and a gateway to the city's wonders.
Manneken-Pis de Colmar
0.2 km
Discover Colmar's charming replica of Brussels' Manneken-Pis, a symbol of Franco-Belgian friendship and shared history, nestled on Rue des Augustins near the Palais de Justice.
Point de vue sur La Petite Venise
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting La Petite Venise in Colmar, a picturesque district of canals and colorful half-timbered houses, offering boat tours and a charming glimpse into Alsatian history.
Rue de l'Église
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Colmar on Rue de l'Église: a picturesque street where stunning architecture, local culture, and Alsatian charm converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Fontaine Roesselmann
0.3 km
Explore the enchanting Fontaine Roesselmann in Colmar, a historical landmark that showcases exquisite artistry and the city's rich cultural heritage.
Maison Schongauer
0.3 km
Discover the artistic legacy of Martin Schongauer at Maison Schongauer, a captivating historical landmark in the heart of Colmar, France, rich in culture and beauty.
Église Saint-Matthieu
0.3 km
Explore the beauty and history of Église Saint-Matthieu in Colmar—an architectural marvel and a serene destination for all travelers.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Le Quai 21
0.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Le Quai 21 in Colmar - a delightful blend of tradition and taste by the canal.
Restaurant _ L'Epicurien
0.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at L'Epicurien in Colmar - where seasonal flavors meet local traditions.
La Fleur de Sel
0.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Fleur de Sel in Colmar - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.
Brasserie des Tanneurs
0.1 km
Savor authentic French cuisine in Colmar's scenic Brasserie des Tanneurs - a culinary delight blending tradition and taste.
Bord'eau Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Bord'eau Restaurant in Colmar—where culinary artistry meets local charm.
Restaurant Au Koïfhus
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Au Koïfhus in Colmar, where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.
Winstub La Taverne
0.2 km
Experience authentic Alsatian cuisine at Winstub La Taverne - where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Colmar.
Wistub de la Petite Venise
0.2 km
Discover authentic Alsatian flavors at Wistub de la Petite Venise in Colmar - a culinary gem offering traditional French dishes in a charming setting.
Jadis et Gourmande
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Alsatian cuisine at Jadis et Gourmande, where delightful flavors meet whimsical decor in beautiful Colmar.
Schwendi Bier und Wistub
0.2 km
Discover authentic Alsatian flavors at Schwendi Bier und Wistub in Colmar – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Le Fer Rouge
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Le Fer Rouge in Colmar - where tradition meets modernity in an unforgettable dining experience.
WISTUB BRENNER
0.2 km
Discover authentic Alsatian flavors at Wistub Brenner, a charming restaurant in Colmar offering delightful French cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant L’Escale
0.2 km
Discover exquisite Alsatian cuisine at Restaurant L’Escale in Colmar—where tradition meets taste in a charming setting.
Restaurant La Soï
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Colmar at Restaurant La Soï – where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
La Stub
0.2 km
Experience authentic Alsatian cuisine at La Stub in Colmar—where tradition meets taste in a charming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Marché Couvert Colmar
0.1 km
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L'Amie d'Antoine - Boutique de souvenir d'Alsace et d'objet de décoration
0.1 km
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Les 100 Ciels
0.2 km
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Impulsion Cadeaux Souvenirs
0.2 km
Discover authentic Alsatian souvenirs at Impulsion Cadeaux Souvenirs in Colmar, a treasure trove of local crafts and unique gifts.
Avenue d'Alsace - boutique de linge de maison et accessoires
0.2 km
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Souvenirs Alsace A Coeur Decoration
0.2 km
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Namasté
0.2 km
Explore Namasté in Colmar for unique handcrafted gifts, clothing, and local artistry that embodies the charm of Alsace.
Alsace Boutique
0.3 km
Explore Alsace Boutique in Colmar for unique gifts, home goods, and beautiful pottery that reflect the rich culture of the Alsace region.
La Magie de Noël
0.3 km
Experience the enchantment of Christmas at La Magie de Noël, a delightful gift shop in Colmar offering unique festive treasures.
Fortwenger Spices Breads
0.3 km
Explore the exquisite flavors of Fortwenger Spices Breads in Colmar, your gateway to gourmet spices and culinary inspiration.
Boutique Mellow Mood colmar
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Discover unique fashion at Boutique Mellow Mood in Colmar, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a charming setting.
La Sommeliere
0.4 km
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Le Comptoir de Mathilde
0.4 km
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Konjaku
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Discover the essence of Japan at Konjaku, a charming gift shop in Colmar offering unique crafts, home goods, and martial arts supplies.
Core to Core
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Explore Core to Core in Colmar for high-quality sportswear that combines style and function for all your athletic needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pub James'On
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at Pub James'On, a charming pub in the heart of Colmar, France.
Chez Moi
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Colmar at Chez Moi, a cozy bar and café offering delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Les Incorruptibles
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Les Incorruptibles, a must-visit bar in the heart of Colmar, France.
DEER AND BEER
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Colmar at Deer and Beer, where local brews and delicious fare come together in a rustic atmosphere.
Le Murphy's
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Ireland at Le Murphy's, the heart of Colmar's nightlife with live music and a diverse drink menu.
The 3 Monkeys
0.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delightful drinks at The 3 Monkeys, a vibrant pub in the heart of Colmar's charming streets.
Les Augustins
0.3 km
Experience the exquisite charm of Colmar's Les Augustins, a wine bar offering the finest local wines in an elegant and cozy atmosphere.
MANNALA PILS
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant charm of Mannala Pils, a premier bar in Colmar, France, known for its craft drinks and lively atmosphere.
Café des Marchands
0.3 km
Experience the best of Alsace wines and craft beers at Café des Marchands in the heart of Colmar, a cozy haven for all wine and beer lovers.
L’Un des Sens | Assiettes gourmandes et canons à partager au bar à vin intimiste du vieux Colmar
0.4 km
Discover the delightful fusion of gourmet dishes and exquisite wines at L’Un des Sens, your intimate wine bar in Colmar.
Le Cercle Des Aromes
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Alsace at Le Cercle Des Aromes, where exquisite wines and local cuisine come together in a cozy atmosphere.
Le Major'L
0.4 km
Experience the essence of Alsatian wine culture at Le Major'L in Colmar, a cozy wine bar perfect for relaxation and enjoyment.
Le Shelby Colmar
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Le Shelby Colmar, where craft beers, cocktails, and wines await in a cozy and lively atmosphere.
Au Temps d’un verre, Bar à vin, Dégustation et Vente de Vin Centre-Ville, Colmar, Alsace
0.5 km
Experience the best of Alsace wines at Au Temps d’un Verre, a charming wine bar in the heart of Colmar for a delightful tasting journey.
K Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at K Bar, where exquisite cocktails and a chic atmosphere await you.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
shmeio
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at Shmeio, where pulsating music and an electrifying atmosphere await to create unforgettable memories.
Black Velvet
0.8 km
Experience the joy of singing at Black Velvet Karaoke Bar, a vibrant lounge in Colmar that promises fun nights and unforgettable performances.
Cotton Club
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at the Cotton Club, where music, drinks, and culture come together for an unforgettable evening.
AM EVENTS | Bar & Tapas à Colmar
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious tapas at AM EVENTS, a must-visit bar in the heart of Colmar, France.
Collis Martis
2.6 km
Discover the vibrant Collis Martis in Colmar, a unique blend of bar, concert hall, and French restaurant offering unforgettable experiences.
LE ROTA CLUB
3.3 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Colmar at Le Rota Club, where music and atmosphere unite for an unforgettable night out.
Nis Club
3.4 km
Experience the thrilling nightlife at Nis Club in Horbourg-Wihr, where vibrant beats and a stylish ambiance create unforgettable nights of fun and excitement.
Le Saphir
3.4 km
Experience the chic ambiance and vibrant nightlife at Le Saphir, a stylish lounge in Ingersheim perfect for unwinding with exquisite cocktails.
K CLUB
3.9 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of K CLUB, Colmar's premier hookah bar with a delightful menu and vibrant nightlife.
L Evasion
11.1 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Riquewihr at L Evasion, where music and dancing create unforgettable memories.
Heuboden Dancing Club
30.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Heuboden Dancing Club in Umkirch, where music, dancing, and cocktails meet for an unforgettable evening.
Gérardmer discothèque
35.9 km
Experience electrifying nightlife at Gérardmer Discothèque, the must-visit night club in the Vosges region, where music, dance, and fun collide.
Discothèque le Caveau
36.0 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Discothèque le Caveau in Gérardmer, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Discothèque Le Black Pearl Club
36.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Discothèque Le Black Pearl Club in Gérardmer, where electrifying music meets a lively atmosphere.
Crash
36.8 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Freiburg at Crash Nightclub, where music, dance, and fun collide until dawn.
