Place de l'Ancienne Douane: Colmar's Historic Heart
Discover Place de l'Ancienne Douane in Colmar: a historic square with charming architecture, a vibrant Christmas market, and access to city attractions.
Place de l'Ancienne Douane, also known as the Old Customs House Square, is a historic square in Colmar, France. Nestled at the gateway to Petite Venise, it has been a focal point of Colmar's civic and commercial life for centuries. The square is home to the Koïfhus, Colmar's oldest public building, and is surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses.
A brief summary to Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane
- Colmar, 68000, FR
Local tips
- Visit during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christmas market with the illuminated Koïfhus.
- Take a walk through the charming streets with half-timbered houses to reach the square from Colmar's city center.
- Explore the nearby Petite Venise, which is easily accessible from Place de l'Ancienne Douane.
Getting There
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Walking
From Colmar's city center, such as the Unterlinden Museum, Place de l'Ancienne Douane is easily reachable on foot. Head east, following signs for Petite Venise. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, passing through charming streets with half-timbered houses. The square is located where Grand Rue meets the Petite Rue des Tanneurs. Look for the Koïfhus (Old Customs House) and the Schwendi Fountain as landmarks.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus, several lines stop near Place de l'Ancienne Douane. Check the TRACE Colmar bus network for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Alight at the 'Théâtre' or 'Marché Couvert' stops, both within a short walking distance (5 minutes) of the square. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Colmar. A short taxi ride from Colmar train station or another point in the city center to Place de l'Ancienne Douane will typically cost between €8 and €15, depending on traffic and distance.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that parking in the immediate vicinity of Place de l'Ancienne Douane is limited and can be challenging, especially during peak season. Consider parking in one of the larger car parks located around the edge of the old town, such as Parking Rapp or Parking Champ de Mars. These are a 5-10 minute walk to the square. Parking fees typically range from €1.50 to €2.50 per hour.
Discover more about Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pl. de l'Ancienne Douane
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Quartier des Tanneurs
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Vieille ville
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Au Vieux Pignon
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Maison Kern
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Adolph House
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The Fishmonger District
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Maison au 4, rue Saint-Martin à Colmar
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Museum of Natural History and Ethnography
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La Petite Venise
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Les Bateliers
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Domaine Martin JUND
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Fontaine Roesselmann
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Unmissable attractions to see
Schwendi Fountain
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Koïfhus
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Cruce Rue Merciers / Grand Rue
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Vieille ville de Colmar
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Square de la Montagne Verte
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Rue Des Tanneurs
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Marché hebdomadaire Centre Ville
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Rue de l'Église
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Place du 2 Février
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Grande roue de Colmar
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Manneken-Pis de Colmar
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Rue des Vignerons
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Marché Couvert Colmar
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Église Saint-Matthieu
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Alsatian Wines Museum
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Au Koïfhus
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Schwendi Bier und Wistub
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Restaurant L’Escale
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Brasserie des Tanneurs
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Le Fer Rouge
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Jadis et Gourmande
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Restaurant La Soï
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Le 3
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Winstub La Taverne
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BISTROT GOURMAND
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L'Atelier du Peintre
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Au Chasseur
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Restaurant Le Quai 21
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Restaurant _ L'Epicurien
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La pergola
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Impulsion Cadeaux Souvenirs
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Namasté
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Alsace Boutique
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Les 100 Ciels
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La Magie de Noël
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Boutique Mellow Mood colmar
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Fortwenger Spices Breads
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Avenue d'Alsace - boutique de linge de maison et accessoires
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L'Amie d'Antoine - Boutique de souvenir d'Alsace et d'objet de décoration
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La Sommeliere
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Le Comptoir de Mathilde
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PIMKIE
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The Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chez Moi
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DEER AND BEER
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Café des Marchands
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MANNALA PILS
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Le Cercle Des Aromes
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Au Temps d’un verre, Bar à vin, Dégustation et Vente de Vin Centre-Ville, Colmar, Alsace
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