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Colmar is the second most visited destination in Alsace after the capital Strasbourg. It’s known for its stunningly beautiful flower-lined canals, historic half-timbered houses and pretty city squares.
In this guide, I recommend four of the best boutique hotels in Colmar where you can stay in style and comfort.
Boutique Hotels in Colmar
Top Pick
James Boutique Hotel ColmarAddress: 15 rue Saint-Eloi, Colmar, France
The James is one of the few boutique hotels in Colmar and it’s the most highly rated. The hotel is located within 5 to 10 minutes of Place de la Cathedrale and Place des Dominicains. Petite Venise is only slightly further away and still within walking distance. The James Boutique Hotel is a relatively new hotel in Colmar and the rooms are modern with sophisticated elegance and warmth.
Features:
- Breakfast prepared entirely with local produce.
- Coffee house and bar on site.
- Soundproof rooms.
- Coffee machine and kettle in the room.
Pros: Small, stylish hotel in an excellent central location with welcoming staff and an exceptional breakfast.
Cons: The smallest rooms are around 20 m² so you may need to book a superior room if you require more space.
Check AvailabilityI’ve given you my top pick for its standout features, but there’s more in Colmar. The next sections are designed to help you find a hotel that aligns with your personal style and requirements.
Navigate to your preferred hotel style below.
- Next Best: A standout alternative.
- Luxury: A 5-star experience.
- Value: Affordable yet impressive.
- Where to Stay: Explore the city’s districts.
Next Best
Le Colombier
Address: 7 rue Turenne, Colmar, Alsace, France
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Le Colombier is another well-located boutique hotel, in this case near the wonderful La Petite Venise district of Colmar.
The rooms are spread throughout a number of historic 16th-century buildings, providing Alsatian character and a warm atmosphere.
Note that the cheapest rooms are quite small, so you might want to upgrade to a larger room.
Luxury Stay
Relais & Châteaux La Maison Des Têtes
Address: 19 Rue des Têtes, Colmar
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This luxury hotel in Colmar is situated in one of the best locations in the city, near Place des Dominicains.
The hotel is within one of the most famous buildings in Colmar, La Maison des Têtes, a historic Renaissance monument dating from 1609.
The rooms and service are exceptional, everything you would expect from a 5-star hotel.
Good Value Option
Hôtel Quatorze
Address: 14 rue des Augustins, Colmar, France
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I had a friend recommend this hotel to me, and the rooms do look lovely, as they’re light and bright, so you might consider this one.
It has some nice design features, and the location is excellent, and it’s a good value for money hotel.
I suggest booking one of the previously mentioned hotels if you can, but if they aren’t available, this is the next best.
Where to Stay in Colmar
Deciding where to stay in Colmar involves considering various neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm and offerings.
I suggest staying in Vieux Colmar (Old Colmar). More specifically, a great place to stay within Vieux Colmar is La Petite Venise (Little Venice), the most famous historic district of Colmar, where you’ll find the pretty canals.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you pick the right area for your visit:
Vieux Colmar (Old Town): This area is the heart of Colmar and is ideal for those interested in history and architecture. The cobblestone streets are lined with well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings. Vieux Colmar is home to landmarks such as the Maison des Têtes and the Saint-Martin Church. It’s perfect for visitors who enjoy walking through history, with plenty of cafes, independent shops, and restaurants to explore.
Petite Venise (Little Venice): Known for its picturesque canals and colourful half-timbered houses, Petite Venise is a great choice for a romantic stay. This area is part of the Old Town but deserves special mention for its unique waterways and atmosphere. It’s also a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts. Along the canals, you’ll find several cosy cafes and restaurants offering local Alsatian cuisine.
Quartier des Tanneurs (Tanners’ District): This neighbourhood, also within the Old Town, was historically home to Colmar’s tanners. Today, it’s recognized for its beautifully restored houses with large attics for drying hides. The Quartier des Tanneurs is quieter than the main parts of Vieux Colmar and Petite Venise, offering a more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to the city’s main attractions.
Quartier Saint-Léon: A bit more off the beaten path, this area is known for its local vibe and is ideal for visitors who want to experience Colmar from a resident’s perspective. Quartier Saint-Léon has a mix of residential homes, small shops, and cafes. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a quieter stay but still wish to be within walking distance of the city centre.
Parc du Champ de Mars: Not a neighbourhood per se, but the area surrounding this large park is a great option for those who appreciate green spaces. The park itself is a lovely spot for a picnic or a leisurely walk, and the surrounding area has a selection of hotels and apartments. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore both the Old Town and other parts of Colmar.
This guide to boutique hotels in Colmar is part of our series on where to stay in Alsace, one of the most beautiful regions of France.
Plan Your Trip
Visit Alsace has an itinerary on how to spend a weekend in Colmar. You might find this useful as a starting point when planning your trip.
Responsible Travel Tips
Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Colmar.
- Use renewable energy sources: Look for accommodations in Colmar that use solar panels or other forms of renewable energy for their power needs. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and supports a more sustainable environment.
- Minimise food waste: Choose restaurants and cafes in Colmar that have a clear policy on reducing food waste. This could include offering smaller portions, using local and seasonal ingredients, or donating unused food to local charities.
- Preference a sustainable diet: Support eateries in Colmar that focus on plant-based meals or use locally sourced, organic produce. This helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and supports local farmers.
- Choose sustainable transport options: Opt for walking or cycling around Colmar as it’s a compact city with many attractions within walking distance. When necessary, use public transport or consider renting an electric vehicle to explore the wider Alsace region.
- Avoid flying: If you’re travelling to Colmar from a relatively close location, consider alternatives to flying, such as trains or buses, which have a lower carbon footprint. The city is well-connected by rail to major cities in France and neighbouring countries.
- Support the local community: Shop at local markets and stores in Colmar to support small businesses. Choose souvenirs and products made locally to help sustain the local economy and artisanship.
By following these steps, you can help make your visit to Colmar more responsible and sustainable.
If you have any questions or would like to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.
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