Colmar: Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide
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Overview
Colmar Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone lets people discover the pretty old town of Colmar at their own speed. This walking tour uses an audio guide on a smartphone. It's a great way to see the city if time is short (about 1.5 hours).
The tour follows a map on the app. It takes people to the most beautiful spots in the old town, including the famous Little Venice area. Along the way, people will see cool places like Colmar Old Town, Hansi Museum, and the House of Heads. They'll also pass by the Unterlinden Museum, Colmar City Hall, and the Dominican Church. Don't forget to check out St. Martin's Church and the Bartholdi Museum, plus the cool houses of Zum Kragen and Schongauer. Other must-sees include the Pfister House, Adolph House, Schwendi Fountain, Old Customs House (Koïfhus), and the Colmar Covered Market.
Once downloaded, the app works without internet. People can listen to stories and legends through headphones while walking. They don't have to stay with a group. The audio guide features 27 recordings by a historian. It gives one-year access in a preferred language. The app also has an offline map with GPS to help find the way. Plus, it includes pictures to help spot landmarks. This tour does not include a human guide, smartphones, headphones, or transportation.




Highlights
Explore Colmar at Your Pace: Discover Colmar's charming streets with a flexible self-guided tour.
Engaging Audio Commentary: Listen to fascinating stories about Colmar's history and culture.
Offline Navigation: Use the app's offline map to easily find your way around the city.
See Top Attractions: Visit iconic landmarks like Little Venice and the House of Heads.
Sentiment Analysis
Travelers find this self-guided audio tour a convenient and informative way to explore Colmar's highlights at their own speed, though some may miss the interaction of a live guide.

Customers enjoyed learning at their own pace.
The audio guide provides interesting historical information.
The offline map is helpful for navigation.
The tour covers key Colmar attractions effectively.
Some users may prefer a live guide for interaction.
Personal headphones are required but not provided.
The Journey
Colmar Old Town
Step into a real-life fairytale in Colmar's Old Town, a picturesque district famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant half-timbered houses. Wander through cobblestone streets, soaking in the unique blend of French and German influences. Discover cozy bistros serving local Alsatian cuisine and be captivated by the romantic canals of 'Little Venice.' Colmar's Old Town is a must-see destination for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Hansi Museum
Delve into the whimsical world of Alsatian folklore at the Hansi Museum, dedicated to the beloved local artist Jean-Jacques Waltz (Hansi). Explore vibrant illustrations and caricatures that vividly depict Alsatian life and culture. Located in a charming timber-framed house, the museum offers a delightful journey into the heart of Alsatian tradition, showcasing the region's unique spirit and historical context through Hansi's captivating artwork, postcards, and posters.
House of Heads
Marvel at the architectural curiosity of the House of Heads (Maison des Têtes), an iconic Renaissance building constructed in 1609. Its façade is adorned with over 100 sculpted heads, each with unique expressions and intricate details. Designed by architect Albert Schmidt and crowned with a cooper statue by Auguste Bartholdi, this historic landmark is a testament to Colmar's rich architectural heritage and artistic flair. It is a must-see landmark in the heart of the town.
Unterlinden Museum
Explore the rich tapestry of art and history at the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent. Famous for the Isenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Renaissance art, this museum offers a diverse collection ranging from medieval to contemporary works. Wander through its expansive galleries to discover paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning centuries. The museum's blend of ancient and modern architecture creates a captivating setting, making it a must-visit cultural landmark in Alsace.
Colmar City Hall
Visit the Colmar City Hall, a distinguished 18th-century building reflecting the town's rich administrative history and architectural elegance. This stately structure, a fine example of classical architecture, stands as a symbol of Colmar's civic pride and historical significance. With its elegant façade and well-preserved interiors, the City Hall often hosts local events and cultural exhibitions, embodying Colmar's community spirit and enduring heritage. Its historical significance makes it a notable landmark in the city.
Dominican Church
Discover the tranquil beauty of the Dominican Church in Colmar, a testament to Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. This serene sanctuary is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows and the revered 'Madonna of the Rose Bush,' a masterpiece by Martin Schongauer. The church’s austere interior exudes a sense of peace, inviting visitors to reflect and admire its historical artistry. Nestled in the heart of Colmar, it is a spiritual and cultural treasure that embodies the town's rich ecclesiastical heritage.
St. Martin's Church
Experience the grandeur of St. Martin's Church in Colmar, a remarkable example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century. Often referred to as a cathedral due to its impressive scale, this historic church boasts intricate stone carvings and stunning stained glass windows that illuminate its spacious interior. The church's majestic bell tower offers a striking presence in the town's skyline. Located in the heart of Colmar, it stands as a testament to the town's medieval heritage and spiritual legacy.
Bartholdi Museum
Delve into the artistic legacy of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi at the Bartholdi Museum in Colmar, the sculptor's birthplace. Housed in a charming 18th-century building, the museum celebrates the creator of the iconic Statue of Liberty. Explore a captivating collection of models, sculptures, and personal artifacts that highlight Bartholdi's contribution to monumental art. The museum's engaging exhibits provide insight into his creative process and enduring influence, making it a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Zum Kragen and Schongauer’s Houses
Explore the historical charm of Zum Kragen and Schongauer’s Houses in Colmar, two remarkable examples of medieval architecture in the heart of the Old Town. Zum Kragen is known for its distinctive, ornate façade featuring wooden carvings and Renaissance elements. Nearby, Schongauer’s House honors the legacy of Martin Schongauer, the renowned German engraver and painter, and displays traditional Alsatian style. Together, these houses offer a captivating glimpse into Colmar’s rich artistic and architectural heritage.
Pfister House
Admire the enchanting Pfister House in Colmar, a quintessential symbol of Alsatian Renaissance architecture. Built in 1537, this iconic house captivates with its intricate woodwork, octagonal turret, and colorful murals depicting biblical and secular scenes. Blending Gothic and Renaissance styles, the Pfister House showcases Colmar's rich cultural history. Situated in the heart of the Old Town, it's a must-see landmark that reflects the region's artistic heritage and architectural beauty.
Adolph House
Discover the Adolph House in Colmar, believed to be one of the town's oldest residential buildings, dating back to the 14th century. This historic structure showcases medieval architecture with its traditional half-timbered design and stone construction. The Adolph House stands as a testament to Colmar's architectural evolution over the centuries and offers a glimpse into the town's medieval past. Located near the bustling center, it's a hidden gem for history enthusiasts.
Schwendi Fountain
Marvel at the Schwendi Fountain in Colmar, an elegant tribute to the 16th-century military leader Lazare de Schwendi. Designed by renowned sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the fountain features a statue of Schwendi holding a vine, symbolizing his reputed introduction of the Tokay grape to Alsace. Nestled in Place de l'Ancienne Douane, this fountain combines artistic beauty with historical significance, adding to the charming atmosphere of Colmar's old town.
Old Customs House (Koïfhus)
Step into the rich history of Colmar at the Old Customs House, known as Koïfhus, the town’s oldest public building. Constructed in the 15th century, this historic site once served as a bustling hub for trade and taxation. With its distinctive Gothic and Renaissance architecture, Koïfhus features a striking tiled roof and beautiful arcades. Today, it hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and markets, standing as a testament to the town’s vibrant mercantile past and architectural heritage.
Colmar Covered Market
Explore the vibrant Colmar Covered Market, a lively hub of local culture and gastronomy. Situated in a charming 19th-century building along the Lauch River, this market offers a feast for the senses. Wander through its aisles to discover fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and regional specialties like sausages and pastries. With its mix of flavors and inviting atmosphere, the market provides an authentic taste of Alsatian life, making it a must-visit culinary destination.
Little Venice
Immerse yourself in the picturesque charm of Little Venice, a quintessentially enchanting neighborhood in Colmar. Known for its scenic canals lined with colorful half-timbered houses, this idyllic area offers a fairy tale setting reminiscent of its Italian namesake. Stroll along the flower-adorned bridges, enjoy a relaxing boat ride, or savor Alsatian cuisine at a canal-side café. Little Venice's romantic ambiance and postcard-worthy views make it a must-see destination, capturing the heart of Colmar's timeless beauty and allure.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes an audio guide app for iPhones and Android phones, featuring 27 audio recordings narrated by a professional historian. You'll receive one year of access to the tour in your preferred language, along with an offline map for easy GPS navigation and illustrations to help identify landmarks. Please note that a human guide, smartphones, and headphones are not included. Transportation is also not provided; participants will need to arrange their own travel to and from the starting point.
Hot Tip
Some travelers recommend bringing a portable charger for your smartphone, especially if you plan to use the audio guide for the full duration. Also, consider starting the tour earlier in the day to avoid crowds at popular attractions, ensuring a more relaxed and immersive experience.