Rue des Marchands: Colmar's Historic Heart

Stroll through Colmar's enchanting Rue des Marchands, a pedestrian paradise of colorful houses and historical landmarks.

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Rue des Marchands

Rue des Marchands, or Merchant Street, is a captivating street in Colmar, France, lined with colorful half-timbered houses dating back to the 14th century. This pedestrian paradise offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural splendor, blending French and German influences.

A brief summary to Rue des Marchands

Colmar, 68000, FR

Local tips

Visit during the Christmas season to experience the magical Christmas markets and festive decorations.
Take your time to admire the intricate details of the half-timbered houses, each with its unique character and history.
Explore the shops and boutiques for local crafts, souvenirs, and Alsatian products.
Look up to admire the beautiful facades and signs that adorn the buildings.

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Musée Bartholdi

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Maison Schongauer

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Getting There

Walking

Rue des Marchands is located in the heart of Colmar's old town and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Colmar train station, it's approximately a 15-minute walk. Head towards the city center and follow the signs for Grand Rue. Rue des Marchands intersects with Grand Rue near the Koïfhus (Old Customs House). There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

While Rue des Marchands is in a pedestrian zone, the closest bus stops are along Grand Rue. From the Colmar train station, take bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 to the 'Théâtre' stop on Grand Rue, which is a short walk from Rue des Marchands. A single ticket costs around €2 [https://www.trace-colmar.fr/]. From there, walk down Grand Rue until you reach the intersection with Rue des Marchands.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Colmar. A taxi ride from the Colmar train station to the city center, near Rue des Marchands, typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic and time of day. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. You can ask to be dropped off near the Koïfhus.

Discover more about Rue des Marchands

Rue des Marchands is a must-see destination in Colmar, inviting visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in the city's Alsatian culture. This iconic street has been a vital part of Colmar for centuries, evolving from a medieval thoroughfare to a vibrant pedestrian zone. As you enter Rue des Marchands, you'll be enchanted by the colorful half-timbered houses that line the street. These architectural gems, dating back to the 14th and 16th centuries, showcase a unique blend of French and German influences. The Maison Pfister, built in 1537 for a wealthy hatter, is the street's most recognizable landmark. This magnificent house features a two-story corner oriel, a wooden gallery, an octagonal turret, and stunning mural paintings depicting biblical scenes and secular life. Beyond the Maison Pfister, Rue des Marchands is home to other architectural gems, including the Maison Schongauer, a late Gothic building adorned with an oriel. Today, Rue des Marchands is a bustling pedestrian street, lined with shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Here you can find traditional Alsatian crafts to contemporary fashion. In December, the street is beautifully decorated for the Christmas season. Rue des Marchands is more than just a street; it's a microcosm of Colmar itself.

Explore the best of what Rue des Marchands has to offer

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