La Petite Venise: A Colmar Fairytale
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.
La Petite Venise, or Little Venice, is Colmar's most enchanting district, a postcard-perfect scene of canals, half-timbered houses, and flower-adorned bridges. This historic area, dating back to the Middle Ages, was once a bustling hub for merchants and market gardeners who used the waterways to transport their goods. Today, it's a captivating blend of Alsatian charm and Venetian romance, drawing visitors from across the globe. Stroll along the Lauch River, admire the colorful facades, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this must-see destination. Boat tours offer a unique perspective, while the nearby covered market and winding cobblestone streets invite exploration and discovery. La Petite Venise is a feast for the senses and a highlight of any trip to Colmar.
A brief summary to Point de vue sur La Petite Venise
- 1 Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, Colmar, 68000, FR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take a boat tour along the canals for a unique perspective of the colorful houses and charming bridges.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Explore the nearby covered market (Marché Couvert) for local produce, cheeses, and Alsatian specialties.
- Wander through the Quai de la Poissonnerie and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants overlooking the canals.
- During the Christmas season, experience the magical atmosphere of the Colmar Christmas Market in La Petite Venise.
Getting There
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Walking
From Colmar's city center, such as the Unterlinden Museum, La Petite Venise is easily accessible on foot. Head east, following signs towards the Marché Couvert (covered market). La Petite Venise begins just behind the market. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through Colmar's charming streets. As you approach, you'll see the canals and half-timbered houses that characterize the area. No special transport or tolls are required.
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Public Transport
If arriving at Colmar train station (Gare de Colmar), take bus lines 1, 2, 4, or 20 towards the city center. Get off at the 'Théâtre' stop or 'Rapp' stop. From either stop, La Petite Venise is a short walk (5-10 minutes). Follow signs towards the Marché Couvert. A single bus ticket costs approximately €1.50. From the 'Rapp' stop, walk along Avenue de la République, then turn right onto Rue de la Herse. This route leads directly into La Petite Venise. No additional costs are involved.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Colmar train station or any point in the city center to La Petite Venise will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. The journey typically takes 5-10 minutes. Request to be dropped off near the Marché Couvert or on Rue de la Herse for easy access to the heart of La Petite Venise. There are no additional fees or tolls.
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Driving
If driving, parking is available in several lots around Colmar city center. Parking Rapp is a convenient option, located a short walk from La Petite Venise. Hourly parking rates in this area range from €1.40 to €1.85, with daily rates around €8-€10. From Parking Rapp, exit onto Avenue de la République and turn right onto Rue de la Herse, which leads directly into La Petite Venise. Be aware that traffic can be congested, especially during peak season and market days. Consider parking slightly further away and walking to avoid potential delays. Parking Lacarre offers a free zone until 1 am, and after that, parking costs only €3 for the whole day.
Discover more about Point de vue sur La Petite Venise
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Les Bateliers
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Maison Kern
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The Fishmonger District
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Vieille ville
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Quartier des Tanneurs
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Au Vieux Pignon
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Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane
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Adolph House
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Alsatian Wines Museum
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Choco Story Colmar
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Maison Wildungshof
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Collégiale Saint-Martin de Colmar
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Parc du Champ de Mars
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Fontaine dédiée à l'Amiral Bruat
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Maison au 4, rue Saint-Martin à Colmar
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Unmissable attractions to see
La Petite Venise
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Chapelle Saint-Jean
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Commanderie Saint-Jean
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Fontaine Roesselmann
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The House of the St. John's Knights
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Museum of Natural History and Ethnography
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La Fleur de Sel
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Chapelle St Pierre
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Fontaine du vigneron
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Rue des Vignerons
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Square Adolphe Hirn
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Quai de la Poissonnerie Colmar
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Quai de la Poissonnerie
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Marché Couvert Colmar
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Manneken-Pis de Colmar
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Essential places to dine
WISTUB BRENNER
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Restaurant À l'Échevin
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Wistub de la Petite Venise
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Les Six Montagnes
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Lüser Stub
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La Stub
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Bord'eau Restaurant
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Caveau Saint-Pierre
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Winstub La Taverne
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Brasserie des Tanneurs
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Restaurant Le Quai 21
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Restaurant _ L'Epicurien
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Jadis et Gourmande
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Le Fer Rouge
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L'Atelier du Peintre
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Souvenirs Alsace A Coeur Decoration
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Avenue d'Alsace - boutique de linge de maison et accessoires
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Les 100 Ciels
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L'Amie d'Antoine - Boutique de souvenir d'Alsace et d'objet de décoration
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Impulsion Cadeaux Souvenirs
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La Magie de Noël
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Fortwenger Spices Breads
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Namasté
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Alsace Boutique
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The Store
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Le Comptoir de Mathilde
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La Sommeliere
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Boutique Marine-Laure ( magasin de prêt à porter féminin )
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Goodvibes Colmar
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Le petit Souk Colmar
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 3 Monkeys
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Les Incorruptibles
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Pub James'On
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L’Un des Sens | Assiettes gourmandes et canons à partager au bar à vin intimiste du vieux Colmar
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MANNALA PILS
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Les Augustins
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Le Murphy's
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DEER AND BEER
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Chez Moi
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Café des Marchands
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K Bar
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Le Shelby Colmar
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Le Major'L
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Le Cercle Des Aromes
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O'Rabbit's Irish Pub
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