6-Day Luxury Escape to Colmar: The Ultimate Classic Route
Colmar is the undisputed crown jewel of the Alsace wine region, a place where timber-framed houses and flower-lined canals create a setting that feels plucked straight from a storybook. This itinerary is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life, combining the city’s rich medieval history with modern, high-end comforts.
Throughout this journey, you will indulge in the legendary gastronomy of Eastern France, stay in historic luxury properties, and enjoy exclusive access to the region's most prestigious vineyards. From private boat tours in Little Venice to quiet mornings in world-class museums, this is the definitive Luxury Escape to Colmar.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Colmar, France - Arrival & Old Town Elegance
Luxury Arrival and Check-in
Arrive in Colmar via private transfer from Basel-Mulhouse Airport. Check into your executive suite at the historic Maison des Têtes, a 17th-century architectural marvel. This hotel perfectly blends Renaissance history with contemporary luxury.
Gourmet Lunch at L'Atelier du Peintre
Begin your culinary journey at this Michelin-starred restaurant located in a 15th-century building. Enjoy a seasonal tasting menu that highlights the best of Alsatian terroir with a modern, artistic twist.
Stroll Through La Petite Venise
Take a private guided walk through the most picturesque district of Colmar. Admire the colorful half-timbered houses reflecting in the Lauch River and learn about the tanners and fishmongers who once dominated this area.
Fine Dining at JY's
Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at JY's, a two-Michelin-starred establishment overlooking the water. Chef Jean-Yves Schillinger offers an innovative menu inspired by his global travels, served in a sleek, designer atmosphere.
Day 2: Colmar, France - Art, History & Heritage
Unterlinden Museum Private Tour
Skip the lines with a private docent-led tour of the Unterlinden Museum. The highlight is the Isenheim Altarpiece, but the museum’s collection of medieval art and modern masterpieces is equally breathtaking.
Casual Luxury at Marché Couvert
Visit the permanent covered market for a high-end picnic experience. Sample local Munster cheese, artisanal foie gras, and freshly baked pretzels while watching the canal-side activity from the market's terrace.
Bartholdi Museum Visit
Visit the birthplace of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the creator of the Statue of Liberty. This museum houses the original models and sketches of his most famous works in an intimate, historic setting.
Traditional Alsatian Evening at Le Fer Rouge
Dine in one of Colmar's most iconic red-timbered buildings. While traditional, the service and wine list here are top-tier, making it a perfect spot to enjoy an authentic Choucroute Garnie with a glass of Riesling.
Day 3: Colmar, France - The Grand Cru Experience
Private Wine Route Excursion
Depart Colmar in a luxury chauffeured vehicle for a tour of the Alsace Wine Route. Visit exclusive estates in nearby villages like Eguisheim, focusing on the prestigious Grand Cru vineyards.
Vineyard Lunch in Eguisheim
Enjoy a gourmet lunch in Eguisheim, often voted one of France's most beautiful villages. Dine at a local favorite like Le Pavillon Gourmand, where the wine pairings are sourced from the surrounding hills.
Wine Cellar Tasting at Domaine Martin Jund
Return to Colmar for a private tasting at this family-run organic winery located right in the city center. Experience the depth of Alsatian Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer in their historic cellar.
Dinner at Restaurant Girardin
Conclude your wine-focused day at this Michelin-starred restaurant located inside the Maison des Têtes. The minimalist decor focuses all your attention on the exquisite, precision-driven French cuisine.
Day 4: Colmar, France - Medieval Landmarks & Local Life
St. Martin's Church Exploration
Visit the Collégiale Saint-Martin, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Admire the intricate stonework and the "Virgin of the Rose Bush" painting in the nearby Dominican Church.
Lunch at Brasserie des Tanneurs
Located in the heart of the tanners' district, this brasserie offers a refined take on local comfort food. Their Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche) is among the best in the city.
Exclusive Boat Ride on the Lauch
Charter a private flat-bottomed boat for a quiet cruise through Little Venice. This is the most tranquil way to view the city's architecture, away from the pedestrian crowds.
Evening at Koïfhus
Visit the Koïfhus (Old Custom House), the oldest public building in Colmar. If there is a seasonal exhibition or wine fair, it is a must-see. Later, enjoy a nightcap at a high-end wine bar like L'Un des Sens.
Day 5: Colmar, France - Relaxation & Craftsmanship
Luxury Spa Morning
Indulge in a morning of wellness at the spa of the Hotel Le Maréchal or a nearby luxury wellness center. Experience treatments using local ingredients like grape seed oil.
Light Lunch at Aux Armes de Colmar
Enjoy a sophisticated yet light lunch at this historic spot, known for its impeccable service and excellent selection of local white wines.
Artisanal Shopping on Rue des Boulangers
Explore the high-end boutiques and artisanal bakeries of Colmar. This is the place to buy premium Alsatian linens, hand-crafted chocolates, and designer French fashion.
Farewell Dinner at Bord'Eau
Celebrate your final night at Bord'Eau, located in the Hostellerie Le Maréchal. This restaurant offers romantic canal-side dining and a menu that focuses on refined, seasonal French gastronomy.
Day 6: Colmar, France - Final Flavors & Departure
Breakfast at Pâtisserie Gilg
Visit one of Colmar's most famous pastry shops for a final taste of luxury. Their Kougelhopf and delicate macarons are world-class and make for excellent travel snacks.
Last Minute Souvenirs at Vinothèque de Colmar
Pick up a few bottles of Grand Cru wine to take home. This boutique offers expert advice and can arrange international shipping for your purchases.
Final Lunch at Le Quai 21
Enjoy a modern seafood lunch at Le Quai 21 before your departure. The terrace provides one last beautiful view of the Colmar canals.
Departure via Private Car
Conclude your luxury escape with a private transfer back to the airport or train station, reflecting on a week of Alsatian excellence.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Colmar for a luxury experience is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, the vineyards are lush, and the city is vibrant without being overly crowded. For a magical, though much colder experience, the world-famous Christmas markets in December offer a unique charm, though advanced booking for hotels and restaurants is mandatory at least six months prior.
Currency & Money
Colmar uses the Euro (EUR). While credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are universally accepted in luxury hotels, high-end boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases at the Marché Couvert or local cafes. Tipping is appreciated for exceptional service; in fine dining, a tip of 5-10% is customary even though service is included in the bill.
Getting Around
The historic center of Colmar is best explored on foot, as it is largely pedestrianized and very compact. For trips to the surrounding vineyards or villages, private chauffeured cars are the preferred method of luxury transport. Colmar also has an efficient local taxi system and a central train station with high-speed TGV connections to Paris and Strasbourg if you wish to extend your journey.
