Car Rental Colmar

Here in the Grand Est region of France, driving is a joy. The rural roads, the closeness of Germany and Switzerland – Europe is your oyster here. A series of major roads surround Colmar creating easy routes for you to use while visiting here – the D201 to the east and the D83 to the north and west. The D418 also runs from one side of the town to the other but note that a one-way system is in place.

Colmar’s historic center is a tangle of medieval streets so it’s best to track down a parking lot and explore it by foot. Fortunately, there are plenty of lots in Colmar, including Parking Mairie and Parking Green Mountain.

Behind the wheel is a fantastic way to explore the beauty of the Alsace region. Here you have wonderful access to lakes, mountains and medieval villages. Ballons des Vosges Natural Regional Park is a quick drive, just 25 minutes or so away if you take the D417. Here you can hike to your heart’s content.

Alternatively, head north to Strasbourg, the region’s capital, via the A35 and you’ll be there in just over an hour. This pretty city boasts an amazing red-tinged Gothic cathedral.

Routes des Vins is a spectacular drive, which takes in the crème de la crème of this wine growing part of France. Follow the route, which starts at Marlenheim and works its way past Colmar down to Thann, and drink in the magnificent views of the Vosges Mountains, lush vineyards and castle ruins along the way.

While in France you’ll drive on the right-hand side of the road. Freeways here are called autoroutes, with many stretches tolled. The speed limit on freeways is 130 km/h (80 mph), but it can vary according to the weather. Speeds drop to 50 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas, and seat belts must be worn by all.

Fall head over heels in love with dazzling Colmar. With its lovingly-preserved buildings and Venetian-style canals, it’s hard not to be enchanted by this French destination. It’s within touching distance of the tranquil Vosges Mountains and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into 1,000 years of European history.

Uncover Colmar’s heritage

Colmar is an Instagram dream. The colorful 16th-century merchants' homes lining the streets are the highlight of any trip to the town, the oldest being Pfister house. Pause to admire its beauty - this home is renowned for its richly painted murals and long wooden gallery. 

Amble through the old town which, on close inspection, will reveal its architectural journey from the middle ages to the 18th century. One of the standout buildings is the Collégiale St Martin, a Gothic church decorated with elaborate stonework and stained-glass windows. Take a peep inside before heading to the Musée Unterlinden.

This former convent has been transformed into a museum with artwork spanning from the prehistoric era to the 21^st century, including works from Monet, Picasso and Renoir. But the real highlight though is the town's masterpiece - the Isenheim Altarpiece. Hung in the Gothic chapel, this cluster of panels by Renaissance painter Matthias Grünewald is revered for its depiction of important stories from the New Testament, including the crucifixion. 

Cruise down canals

Petite Venise - Little Venice - is one of the town’s most serene quarters and a joy to discover. The tangle of waterways, decorated with colorful blooms and fringed by pastel-hued Alsatian houses, is picture perfect. Wander through the atmospheric backstreets and across the quaint bridges – one of the best places to stop is Saint-Pierre Bridge, the view from which is simply breathtaking,

Back on dry land, Colmar will delight with its boutique stores. Pick up local produce and artisan souvenirs, then head to JY’S to try Alsatian cuisine. At this Michelin-starred restaurant, you can feast on seared scallops, mushroom pissaladière (pizza-like tart) and salmon gravlax.

Day trips from Colmar

Colmar is the perfect base for exploring the medieval towns and villages in the Alsace countryside. Visit Riquewihr, one of the region’s most beautiful towns. Nestled among vineyards and dramatic peaks, this jaw-dropping destination is famous for the 13^th century ramparts surrounding the historic center. Meander along the atmospheric streets, passing by half-timbered houses decorated with vivid blooms.

Head north from here to explore the 12th century Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. Sat atop a dramatic hilltop, the fortress offers sweeping views of the Vosges Mountains and the Black Forest to those who scale its medieval ramparts.

With a rental car in Colmar you can explore this truly lovely part of France at a pace that suits you, or turn your vacation into a memorable European road trip.