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Rue Des Tanneurs: A Step Back in Time

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.

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Rue des Tanneurs, or Tanner's Street, in Colmar, is a captivating journey into the heart of Alsace's rich history and architectural heritage. This cobblestone pedestrian street, lined with half-timbered houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, evokes a strong sense of the past. Once home to the city's tanners, who used the upper floors to dry their leather, the street now offers a delightful mix of artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants. The colorful facades and unique architectural details make it a photographer's paradise and a must-see destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Colmar's enchanting atmosphere. Walking along Rue des Tanneurs is like stepping into a living postcard, where history and charm intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to Rue Des Tanneurs

  • Rue des Tanneurs, Colmar, 68000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during the off-season (spring or fall) to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Bring your camera! The colorful facades and architectural details make for stunning photos.
  • Try some local Alsatian cuisine at one of the street's charming restaurants.
  • Look for the stone markers in the pavement that indicate the former locations of tannery workshops.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along the nearby Quai de la Poissonnerie and a visit to Colmar's Little Venice.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Rue des Tanneurs is centrally located in Colmar's historic district and is easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From the Unterlinden Museum, head east on Rue des Unterlinden towards Rue des Marchands. Turn right onto Rue des Marchands, and continue walking for about 200 meters. Then, turn left onto Rue des Tanneurs. Walk straight for approximately 300 meters. Alternatively, from the Colmar Christmas Market area (Place des Dominicains), walk south on Rue des Écoles towards Rue des Marchands. Turn right onto Rue des Marchands and continue walking until you reach the intersection with Rue des Tanneurs. Turn left onto Rue des Tanneurs and walk for about 300 meters to reach the destination. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Colmar has a well-developed bus network. The nearest bus stops are within a short walking distance of Rue des Tanneurs. Check the TRACE Colmar website or the Moovit app for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. A single ticket ('Billet a l'Unité') costs €1.50 and is valid for one hour. A 24-hour ticket ('Billet Alsa + 24 heures Colmar Agglo'), valid on all Colmar transport, including ALSA trains, buses and trams, costs €3.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Colmar. A short taxi ride from the Colmar train station (Gare de Colmar) or another location in the city center to Rue des Tanneurs will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.

  • Driving

    Parking in the immediate vicinity of Rue des Tanneurs is limited, as it is a pedestrian street. However, there are several parking garages located within a short walking distance. Parking Saint-Josse (Rue Saint Josse) and Parking de la Montagne Verte are both good options. Expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour, or €15-€20 for a full day of parking.

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Discover more about Rue Des Tanneurs

Rue des Tanneurs, nestled in the heart of Colmar, is more than just a street; it's a living testament to the city's vibrant past and architectural prowess. This picturesque lane, also known as Tanner's Street, invites visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the enchanting atmosphere of old Colmar. As you stroll along the cobblestone pavement, you'll be immediately captivated by the rows of half-timbered houses that line the street. These buildings, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, stand as proud reminders of the city's rich history. Their colorful facades, adorned with intricate details and charming window boxes, create a visual feast that is sure to delight any visitor. In centuries past, Rue des Tanneurs was the bustling center of Colmar's tanning industry. The street was home to numerous tanneries, where skilled artisans worked diligently to transform raw hides into leather. The upper floors of the houses, with their openwork designs, were used for drying the leather, allowing for optimal air circulation. Today, while the tanneries are long gone, the street retains its historic character and charm, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who once lived and worked here. Between 1968 and 1974, Rue des Tanneurs underwent a significant restoration project, which aimed to preserve the street's unique architectural heritage. The project involved meticulous cleaning and repair of the buildings' timber frames and masonry, ensuring that the street would continue to captivate visitors for generations to come. This restoration helped to revitalize the area, attracting new businesses and residents while maintaining its historical integrity. Today, Rue des Tanneurs is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a delightful mix of artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can browse the unique boutiques, sample local delicacies, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of this charming street. Whether you're looking for a special souvenir, a delicious meal, or a glimpse into Colmar's past, Rue des Tanneurs has something to offer everyone. The street's architectural details are a particular highlight. The half-timbered houses, with their steeply pitched roofs and gabled windows, are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who built them. The colorful facades, painted in a variety of hues, add to the street's charm and create a cheerful atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the intricate carvings and decorative details that adorn many of the buildings, showcasing the unique Alsatian style. Rue des Tanneurs is also conveniently located near other popular attractions in Colmar. The Quai de la Poissonnerie, or Fishmonger's Quay, is just a short walk away, offering stunning views of the Lauch River and the city's Little Venice district. The Musée Unterlinden, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, is also within easy reach. For those interested in learning more about the street's history, stone markers embedded in the pavement indicate the former locations of tannery workshops that operated here for centuries. These markers serve as a tangible reminder of the street's past and the people who once called it home. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming place to stroll, Rue des Tanneurs is a must-see destination in Colmar. Its unique blend of history, architecture, and atmosphere is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you wander along Rue des Tanneurs, take a moment to imagine what life was like in centuries past. Picture the tanners hard at work, the sounds of their hammers and tools echoing through the street. Imagine the families who lived in these houses, raising their children and building their lives in this vibrant community. By connecting with the street's past, you can gain a deeper appreciation for its present and its enduring charm. Rue des Tanneurs is not just a street; it's a portal to another time, a place where history comes alive and where the beauty of old Colmar can be fully appreciated. So, come and explore this enchanting lane, and discover the magic of Rue des Tanneurs for yourself.

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