A complete guide to where to stay in Colmar (+ the best places to stay in the Old Town, for Christmas markets and the best hotels with parking).
Situated along the famous Alsace Wine Route, Colmar is the perfect base to explore the Alsace region. Within less than half an hour by car, you can easily reach lovely villages like Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillé. Also, there are many wineries around where you can taste fantastic white wines such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris.
This guide will help you choose where to stay in Colmar, whether you’re looking for accommodations near the Christmas market, hotels with parking or luxurious options.
Where I stayed in Colmar
On my first trip to Colmar, I stayed just a short walk away from the Old Town (Vieux Colmar), right next to the charming Little Venice. I chose this location for easy access to the train station, the town’s main attractions and Christmas Markets. Being close to Colmar Train Station was essential as I was travelling by train. Also, I was planning to explore the nearby Christmas markets using the Christmas shuttle bus that departs from the train station.
💖 My favourite hotel in Colmar: Novotel Suites
Perfect for: sightseeing – only a short walk to the Old Town and Little Venice
What I loved: spacious rooms, great sauna and hammam
Check details & prices: Booking.com | Expedia
If you’re after a central spot that’s convenient for both the Old Town and the train station, Novotel Suites is a great pick. I loved not just the location, but also how spacious the room was. There is even a little food shop where you can grab wine, gingerbread, or snacks. Plus, the hotel has a private parking garage, making it a handy option if you’re travelling by car.
Readers’ most booked hotel in Colmar
Looking for a great hotel, situated right in the Old Town? Then check out Hotel Le Colombier – with over 2,400 reviews, it is the most booked hotel in Colmar.
Hotel Le Colombier – Most booked hotel
Hotel Le Colombier is the ideal base to explore Colmar and the Alsace region. It is located in the beautiful Little Venice district, just steps away from the Old Town and numerous restaurants and wine bars. The breakfast is organic, featuring local products such as bread, pastries and specialities, including Les Confitures du Climont. Plus, there is private parking on-site.
Where to stay in Colmar (My top picks)
- Vieux Colmar – for sightseeing (Hotel Le Maréchal – best hotel in the Old Town)
- Quartier des Tanneurs – for the Christmas market (Hotel Saint-Martin – best hotel)
- Outside the Old Town – if you’re travelling by car (Novotel Suites – best hotel with parking)
- Colmar Train Station – easy access to trains (Colmar Hotel – best hotel near the train station)
Tips for booking a hotel in Colmar
Book early – if you’re visiting during the Christmas season or in the summer (especially during the Alsace Wine Fair or Colmar International Festival), book your accommodation as soon as you know your travel dates. There are only a few 4-star and 5-star hotels located in the town centre, so they tend to get booked up fast. I booked for the Christmas markets almost 6 months in advance, and by then, the most central hotels were already sold out.
Visiting Colmar for the first time? Take a look at my complete itinerary for one day in Colmar, which includes all must-see places and the best wine bars.
Vieux Colmar – best area to stay in Colmar for sightseeing
The best place to stay in Colmar for sightseeing or if you’re visiting for the first time is Vieux Colmar (the Old Town). It’s the most picturesque part of the town, home to famous attractions like St. Martin’s Church, Pfister House, Unterlinden Museum and Little Venice.
Vieux Colmar is the historic town centre, known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. The narrow, winding streets are lined with centuries-old buildings, creating a fairytale atmosphere. One of the most distinctive features of the Old Town is its colourful half-timbered houses. These traditional Alsatian buildings are painted in bright colours and decorated with flowers, which makes the area even more magical.
Experience the charm of Colmar and uncover its hidden gems on this Highlights Walking Tour and Wine Tasting. You’ll also have the chance to taste some of the best Alsatian white wines.
Why stay in Vieux Colmar for sightseeing
- Vieux Colmar is the best place to stay for sightseeing because all the attractions and popular restaurants will be right at your doorstep
- walking distance to some of the town’s most famous attractions, including St. Martin’s Church, Pfister House, Unterlinden Museum and Little Venice
- Colmar Train Station is within a 15-minute walk
If you’re travelling by train, I highly recommend staying in the Old Town. You’ll be just a short walk from all the top attractions, like St. Martin’s Church and Pfister House. Additionally, the train station is conveniently just a 15-minute walk away, ideal for day trips.
You’ll also find plenty of dining options, from traditional Alsatian restaurants to cosy cafés and wine bars. L’atelier de Yann and Mokka Café are great brunch places, while Le Cercle Des Aromes is perfect for tasting local wines.
Best hotels in Vieux Colmar
Hotel Le Maréchal – Most popular 4-star
Located directly on the canals in the heart of Little Venice, Hotel Le Maréchal is the perfect base to explore the town. The hotel is set in a beautifully renovated historic building from 1565, which really adds to its charm. Inside, the rooms combine modern comforts with traditional Alsatian decor and antique furniture. Don’t miss the hotel’s restaurant, A l’Echevin, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes inspired by classic Alsatian and French flavours.
Hotel Le Colombier Suites – Best rated 4-star
Hotel Le Colombier Suites is set in an 18th-century Alsatian mansion, right in the heart of the charming Little Venice district. The rooms are modern, spacious, and come with all the comforts you’d expect. Breakfast is a real treat, featuring local organic products. There’s also private on-site parking and a nice garden, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa – Most popular 5-star
L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa is tucked away at Champ de Mars, just a short stroll from Colmar’s Old Town. The wellness centre is a total treat – with a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and hammam, perfect for a little recharge. And if you’re up for something special, the hotel’s JY’s gourmet restaurant (yep, it’s got 2 Michelin stars), serves up gourmet dishes with a lovely view of the park.
Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes – Second best 5-star
This elegant 5-star hotel is set in a beautiful 17th-century building right in the heart of Vieux Colmar. La Maison des Têtes blends Alsatian charm with modern comfort, making it a truly special place to stay. For a taste of traditional Alsatian cuisine, grab a table at the Brasserie des Têtes. And if you’re in the mood to splurge on a gourmet experience, don’t miss the Michelin-starred Restaurant Girardin!
Ibis Styles – Best 3-star
Ibis Styles is set in an 18th-century brewery in the heart of the Old Town. The rooms are cosy and equipped with modern amenities, while still maintaining their historic charm. In case you’re arriving by car, there’s secure underground parking conveniently located just across the street.
Appartements des 2 Têtes – Best apartments
Appartements des 2 Têtes occupy an old historic building in the heart of Old Town. The location is superb, with everything conveniently close by, including the train station. The apartments are cosy and spacious, with a fully equipped kitchen. Plus, there’s a public parking lot nearby, which is handy if you’re travelling by car.
Quartier des Tanneurs – where to stay for Colmar Christmas Market
During the Christmas season, Colmar transforms into a fairytale. The half-timbered houses are decorated with hundreds of garlands, toys and bears. Along the canals, the medieval buildings are beautiful lip ut, creating a magical atmosphere. 6 Christmas markets are set in the Old Town, drawing thousands of visitors.
The best place to stay in Colmar for the Christmas Market is Quartier des Tanneurs. This historic district, located in the heart of Vieux Colmar, is known for its scenic canals and medieval atmosphere. Here, you’ll find four of the Christmas Markets, with the other two just a short stroll away.
Find everything you need to plan the perfect holiday getaway in my complete Colmar Christmas Market Review.
During my visit to the Christmas market in Colmar, I stayed near Quartier des Tanneurs. I found the location extremely convenient, as it was within walking distance of all the markets!
Why stay in Quartier des Tanneurs for the Christmas Market
- Quartier des Tanneurs is the most central area to stay in Colmar for the Christmas Market
- there are 4 markets in immediate proximity (Place des Dominicains, Place de l’Ancienne Douane, Gourmet Market and Koïfhus) and another 2 within a short walk away (Place Jeanne d’Arc and Petite Venise)
- the Colmar Train station, from where you can catch the Christmas shuttle bus to the nearby towns, is less than a 20-minute walk
- St. Martin’s Church, where you can watch a spectacular 3D mapping display, is about a 5-minute walk away
Best hotels near Colmar Christmas Market
Hotel Le Maréchal – Best 4-star
Set right in the heart of Little Venice, Hotel Le Maréchal is a perfect base for your winter getaway. It’s just a short walk from several Christmas markets, making it super convenient during the festive season. The hotel itself is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building, with traditional Alsatian decor throughout. For a taste of the local flavour, be sure to check out the hotel’s restaurant, A l’Echevin, where you can enjoy classic Alsatian and French cuisine.
Hotel Saint-Martin – Best 3-star
Hotel Saint-Martin is a great budget-friendly option right in the heart of the Old Town. The rooms have a simple, cosy Alsatian look that fits right in with the building’s traditional charm. It’s comfortable, convenient, and puts you right where the holiday action is.
Reflets Sur La Lauch Appartements – Best apartments
This property offers a fantastic location for the Christmas market, directly on the canals in Little Venice. The apartments occupy an authentic half-timbered house, overlooking the picturesque Lauch River. The kitchen comes fully equipped, ensuring you have everything you need during your stay – a true home away from home experience.
Best hotels in Colmar with parking
Finding parking in Colmar can be difficult due to the town’s limited space and narrow streets. In the Old Town, on-street parking is available but is metered and payable from 9 AM to 7 PM, with a limited duration allowed. That’s why if you’re planning to rent a car, I’d recommend booking a hotel with private parking. Another option is to park in any of the numerous car parks, located on the outskirts of the Old Town (find here a list of all car parks).
Here are some of the most popular hotels in Colmar with parking.
Novotel Suites – Best rated 4-star
Located a short walk from Little Venice and close to the A35 exit, Novotel Suites is the best place to stay in Colmar if you’re travelling by car. The hotel features a wellness centre, complete with a sauna and hammam, as well as a boutique shop for snacks.
James Boutique Hôtel – Most popular 4-star
James Boutique Hôtel is conveniently located just a short stroll away from the Old Town and offers easy access to the A35 road. An ideal base to explore both the town and the Christmas markets, with the nearest one just a 5-minute walk away. Plus, the hotel has convenient on-site underground parking.
Hôtel Turenne – Best 3-star
This budget-friendly hotel is just a short stroll from the scenic Little Venice and conveniently close to the A35 exit. It offers a private garage (make sure to reserve it in advance) and even has an electric vehicle charging station if you’re travelling by EV. A great spot for both convenience and affordability!
Best hotels near Colmar Train Station
Colmar Train Station (Gare de Colmar) is situated about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. It’s a convenient place to stay if you’re travelling by train early in the morning or late in the evening. It’s also ideal if you’re planning a short one-night stay in the city and want easy access to trains.
Additionally, the train station serves as the departure point for the Christmas shuttle bus. I’d suggest staying here if you intend to use the Christmas shuttle daily to explore the Alsace region.
Nevertheless, in all other cases, I’d advise staying directly within the Old Town. Its picturesque charm offers an unforgettable fairytale experience that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Here are some of the most popular hotels near Colmar train station.
Colmar Hotel – Nearest to Colmar Train Station
This hotel has an ideal location, just a 2-minute walk from the train station and approximately a 15-minute stroll to the Old Town. It’s the perfect base for an overnight stay in Colmar with convenient access to trains.
PAUL & PIA – Second best option
PAUL & PIA is another great place to stay for easy access to trains. This quirky, charming hotel is located a little bit closer to the Old Town, yet still within walking distance of the train station.
FAQs about where to stay in Colmar
Absolutely, Colmar is one of the most beautiful fairytale towns in Europe. It is worth staying in for its picturesque charm, historic architecture and delicious cuisine. Colmar is also a convenient base to explore the beautiful Alsace region.
If you’re planning to explore Alsace by car, stay in Colmar. It’s more picturesque and situated closer to many quaint towns compared to Strasbourg. Yet, if your itinerary only includes Colmar and Strasbourg, opt for Strasbourg for your overnight stay. It is much larger than Colmar and has plenty of attractions, including a stunning Gothic Cathedral. Plus, Strasbourg has excellent public transportation connections to the rest of France, including Paris.
The best place to stay in Colmar is Hotel Le Colombier. It is situated in the beautiful Little Venice district, just a short stroll from the most popular attractions, restaurants and wine bars.
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