If you’re staying in Colmar and wondering about the best day trips from Colmar, you’re in for a treat—the Alsace region offers some of the most diverse and accessible adventures in all of Europe.
I’ve crossed borders into Germany and Switzerland, experiencing everything from Strasbourg’s stunning cathedral to Basel’s world-class museums, from Freiburg’s sustainable initiatives to Nancy’s UNESCO architecture, all while using Colmar as my perfect home base.
In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 amazing day trips from Colmar, including exact travel times, must-see attractions, and all the insider tips that made your adventures unforgettable.
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Cultural & Historical Destinations
1. Strasbourg (1-1.5 hours) – European Capital with Gothic Splendor
Strasbourg should be at the top of your day trip list from Colmar. As the capital of Alsace and seat of the European Parliament, this city perfectly blends French charm with international importance.
How to get there: Direct trains run from Colmar to Strasbourg every 30 minutes, taking just 30 minutes. Book your train tickets in advance for the best prices (around €15 round-trip).
For a comprehensive experience, join this highly-rated Strasbourg walking tour that covers all the major highlights.
Must-see attractions:
- Notre Dame Cathedral: This Gothic masterpiece with its famous astronomical clock will leave you speechless
- Petite France: Wander through this UNESCO World Heritage district with its canals and half-timbered houses
- European Parliament: Take a free tour to see European politics in action
Perfect for: First-time visitors to Alsace, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in European history.
2. Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg (45 minutes) – Medieval Castle with Panoramic Views
This restored medieval fortress offers the best castle experience in Alsace, plus views that stretch all the way to the Black Forest in Germany.
How to get there: Take a bus from Colmar to Sélestat (30 minutes), then catch the navette shuttle bus directly to the castle (additional 15 minutes). Total journey: 45 minutes. For a hassle-free experience, book a castle tour from Colmar.
What makes it special:
- Fully restored 12th-century castle with furnished rooms
- 360-degree views of the Rhine valley and Vosges mountains
- Interactive exhibits about medieval life
Insider tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The castle is especially magical at sunset! Book castle entrance tickets here to skip the lines.
3. Belfort (1.5 hours) – Historic Fortress and Bartholdi’s Masterpiece
Many travelers skip Belfort, but they’re missing one of France’s most impressive citadels and a sculpture by the creator of the Statue of Liberty.
How to get there: Book FlixBus tickets from Colmar to Belfort (1 hour 25 minutes) for just €10-14, making it incredibly affordable.
Key attractions:
- The Lion of Belfort: This massive sculpture by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi commemorates the city’s heroic resistance during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871)
- Belfort Citadel: Explore the fortress walls and enjoy panoramic views of the entire region
- History Museums: Learn about the city’s military history and see artifacts from multiple wars
Budget tip: The Lion costs only €1 to visit up close, and walking the citadel walls is completely free! This makes Belfort one of the most affordable cultural day trips from Colmar.
4. Nancy (1.5 hours) – UNESCO World Heritage Architecture
Nancy offers a completely different architectural style from Alsace, showcasing the elegance of 18th-century French royal design.
How to get there: Book train tickets from Colmar via Strasbourg (total 1.5 hours). The journey requires one change but is straightforward.
Must-see sights:
- Place Stanislas: This UNESCO World Heritage square is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe
- Saint-Epvre Basilica: Stunning neo-Gothic architecture with incredible stained glass
- Old Town: Wander through streets that showcase the finest French royal architecture
Perfect for: Architecture enthusiasts and anyone wanting to see a different side of French culture beyond Alsace.
Charming Wine Villages & Traditional Culture
5. Alsace Wine Route Villages (15-30 minutes) – Three Fairy-Tale Gems
Instead of choosing just one village, why not visit all three? Each has its own personality and unique attractions.
Riquewihr (30 minutes) – “Pearl of the Vineyard”
This perfectly preserved medieval town is famous for its historic wine families and exclusive local cuisine.
What makes it unique:
- Dolder Tower: Climb this 13th-century belfry for panoramic views
- Riquewihrienne: Try this green sauerkraut specialty found only in five restaurants here
- Historic wineries: Visit the Hugel family tasting room (producing wine since 1639!)
Kaysersberg (20 minutes) – “Emperor’s Mountain”
Voted “France’s Favorite Village” in 2017, Kaysersberg offers more than just pretty houses.
Special attractions:
- Fortified bridge: This 16th-century stone bridge over the Weiss River is incredibly photogenic
- Albert Schweitzer Museum: Learn about the Nobel Peace Prize winner who was born here in 1875
- Glassblowing workshop: Watch artisans create beautiful glass art at Verrerie d’Art
Eguisheim (15 minutes) – The Circular Village
This unique village inspired Disney’s Beauty and the Beast with its concentric circle layout.
Why it’s different:
- Circular medieval design: The only village built in concentric circles around a central castle for defense
- Stork refuge: See Alsace’s symbol birds up close at the Parc à Cigognes
- Discovery trail: Follow the special walking path with nine informative plaques about the village’s unique history
Transport tip: The Kutzig shuttle bus connects all three villages from April to October, making village-hopping super easy! You can also book wine tasting experiences in advance or join guided wine village tours from Colmar that include transport and tastings.
Cross-Border Adventures
6. Freiburg, Germany (1 hour) – Sustainable University Town
Cross the border for a taste of German culture in one of Europe’s most sustainable cities.
How to get there: Book direct train tickets from Colmar to Freiburg in just 1 hour, costing around €15 each way.
Explore with a local: Join this Freiburg walking tour to discover the city’s hidden historic gems with a knowledgeable guide.
What to explore:
- Historic center: Wander through the car-free old town with its famous red cathedral
- University atmosphere: Feel the energy of this vibrant student city
- Sustainability focus: Learn about Freiburg’s innovative environmental initiatives
- Black Forest gateway: Use it as a starting point for forest adventures
7. Basel, Switzerland (1.5 hours) – Art Museums and Rhine Views
Add a third country to your trip! Basel offers world-class museums and Swiss precision.
How to get there: Book train tickets to Basel from Colmar (1.5 hours). Remember to bring your passport for border crossing!
See Basel like a local: Book this 3-hour guided bike tour of Basel to explore the best neighborhoods, museums, and Rhine riverfront with an expert guide.
Top attractions:
- Art museums: Basel has an incredible concentration of world-class museums
- Rhine River: Stroll along the riverbanks for beautiful views
- Old town: Explore the medieval streets and impressive cathedral
- Swiss culture: Experience the unique blend of German, French, and Swiss influences
Family-Friendly Options
8. Europa-Park, Germany (1 hour) – Theme Park Magic
One of Europe’s best theme parks is practically on Colmar’s doorstep, making it perfect for families.
How to get there: Take the train to Rust, Germany (1 hour). Special shuttle buses run from the train station to the park entrance.
Why families love it:
- 13 themed areas: Each represents a different European country with unique attractions
- All-weather fun: Indoor and outdoor attractions ensure enjoyment regardless of weather
- German efficiency: Well-organized with shorter wait times compared to other major European parks
Practical tip: Buy Europa-Park tickets online in advance for discounts, and consider booking one of the on-site hotels if you want to visit for two days.
9. Mulhouse (45 minutes) – Interactive Museums Galore
This industrial heritage city offers some of France’s best technical museums, perfect for curious minds.
How to get there: Book frequent trains from Colmar to Mulhouse in just 45 minutes for around €10.
Museum highlights:
- Cité de l’Automobile: See the world’s largest collection of classic cars
- Cité du Train: Explore the history of French railways with interactive exhibits
- Musée de l’Impression sur Étoffes: Learn about textile printing in beautifully presented displays
Great for: Families with kids who love cars and trains, plus anyone interested in industrial history.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
10. Vosges Mountains (30-90 minutes) – Hiking and Mountain Lakes
The Vosges offer incredible hiking opportunities and scenic mountain lakes, all within easy reach of Colmar.
Popular destinations:
- Lac Blanc: Crystal-clear mountain lake perfect for hiking and picnics (1 hour drive from Colmar)
- Le Markstein: Great for winter skiing and summer hiking (45 minutes drive)
- Ballon d’Alsace: The highest peak with panoramic views across three countries (1.5 hours drive)
Seasonal activities:
- Spring/Summer: Hiking trails, mountain biking, lake swimming
- Fall: Spectacular autumn colors and mushroom hunting
- Winter: Downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing
Transport tip: Rent a car for maximum flexibility in mountain destinations, but some lakes are accessible by bus during summer months.
Practical Information for Your Day Trips
Transportation Guide
By Train: The most convenient option for most destinations. Book tickets through SNCF Connect or use the app. Regional day passes can save money if you’re making multiple trips.
By Bus: FlixBus connects Colmar to several destinations like Belfort very affordably. Local buses serve the wine villages.
By Car: Rent a car for maximum flexibility, especially for mountain destinations. Parking is generally easy and affordable outside city centers.
Budget Planning
Budget day trips (€20-35 per person):
- Alsace wine villages (bus tickets + wine tastings)
- Vosges Mountains (bus fare + picnic lunch)
Mid-range day trips (€40-60 per person):
- Strasbourg or Nancy (train + meals + attractions)
- Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg (transport + entrance fee + lunch)
Higher-end day trips (€80+ per person):
- Europa-Park (train + entrance ticket + meals)
- Basel or Freiburg (international transport + activities + meals)
Making Your Day Trips Unforgettable
Based on our experiences exploring all these destinations, here are the tips that made the biggest difference:
Start early: Beginning around 8-9 AM gives you more time and helps you avoid afternoon crowds, especially at popular spots like the wine villages.
Pack smart: Comfortable walking shoes are essential since you’ll be exploring cobblestone streets and castle grounds. Bring a portable phone charger and download offline maps.
Stay flexible: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, and some attractions have seasonal closures. Having backup plans keeps your trip stress-free.
Mix destinations: Combine different types of places—maybe a castle in the morning and a wine village for lunch. This variety keeps each day interesting.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How many day trips can I realistically do from Colmar? If you’re staying for a week, you could easily do 5-7 different day trips without feeling rushed. Each destination offers a full day of activities, so you won’t run out of things to see.
2) Do I need a car for these day trips? Not at all! Most destinations are well-connected by train or bus. A car gives you more flexibility for the mountain destinations, but it’s definitely not required.
3) Which day trip is best for first-time visitors? Strasbourg is perfect as your first day trip—it gives you a great overview of Alsatian culture and is super easy to reach by train.
4) Can I visit multiple wine villages in one day? Absolutely! The three main villages (Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim) are close together. The Kutzig shuttle bus makes this especially easy during tourist season.
5) What’s the best day trip for families with young children? Europa-Park is obviously great for theme park lovers, but Mulhouse’s interactive museums are also fantastic for curious kids, and the transport is simpler.
6) Do I need to book anything in advance? For most destinations, you can be spontaneous. However, Europa-Park tickets are cheaper online, and some castle tours can fill up on weekends, so advance booking helps for those.
Final Thoughts
These 10 day trips from Colmar showcase why Alsace is such an incredible base for exploration. In a single week, you can experience medieval castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming wine villages, international cities, and mountain adventures—all while returning to your cozy Colmar hotel each evening.
Whether you’re interested in history, food and wine, outdoor adventures, or just soaking up the fairy-tale atmosphere, these day trips offer something for every type of traveler. The hardest part won’t be getting there—it’ll be choosing which amazing destination to visit first!
Start planning your Colmar adventure today, and prepare to fall in love with one of Europe’s most enchanting regions. Each day trip feels like discovering a new country, but you’ll always have the comfort of returning to Colmar’s welcoming embrace each evening.
Want a guided experience? If you prefer joining organized tours, check out these Alsace day trip tour from Colmar that include transportation and a guide.
| Save on your France trip with these resources! These are the companies that I recommend to use when travelling: |
| Flights: Expedia for cheapest and promotional offers on flight options. Trains: SNCF Connect (official French railways) for direct bookings and best prices on TGV and regional trains. Accommodations: Booking.com for the large selections of hotels. Esim: Airalo for affordable global data plans with instant activation in over 200 countries. Travel Insurance: Visitors Coverage for comprehensive international travel insurance with excellent medical coverage and 24/7 support, especially designed for visitors traveling abroad. Cars : RentalCars for comparable car rental prices from a wide range of rental car companies. Private tours and activities: I always choose Viator, Klook or GetYourGuide for their reputable choices of tours and activities. |
