A Complete Guide to Colmar–France’s Enchanting Medieval City
Dazzling colors, canals, the wonder of half-timbered buildings that look like a perfect illustration—these are the things of Colmar, France.
France
France is the most visited country on Earth. It shouldn’t surprise anyone that more people travel here than anywhere else. Located at the heart of Western Europe, it is a transportation hub and easily reached from anywhere in the world. For any traveler, there’s just so much to see and do in France. This is a country of history and culture…and wine.
While Paris has a great deal to offer travelers to France (and ought to be visited at least once in your life), there’s lots to see besides the capital. The war sites in Normandy are legendary, and it’s nearly impossible not to be moved there. The half-timbered buildings of Colmar stop visitors in their tracks. The wine regions of Champagne, Bordeaux, Alsace, and the Cotes du Rhone are among some of the best in the world. But there is no place quite like Provence, from Van Gogh’s residence and the Roman ruins to the regular markets and the wineries, it just doesn’t get any better than this.
We’ve also had the chance to visit France during the magical Christmas season. The stunning architecture is made even more lovely by the twinkling lights. Add to that the smell of mulled wine, gingerbread, and other treats, and you have quite a dreamy atmosphere.
Seasonal Fun at the Strasbourg Christmas Market
The history of the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, France, goes all the way back to the 12th century, so they’ve had a lot of time to perfect things to this degree…and it shows.
A Visit to the Winter Wonderland of Colmar at Christmas
Christmas in Colmar is a dream. When you take a city that already looks like a gingerbread town and then deck it with wreaths, ornaments, and snow-covered trees, it’s hard to think of anything that feels more appropriate for the holiday season.
21 Dreamy Photos of Colmar, France
Some places just seem to be made for photographers, and Colmar, France, is one of those cities.
10 Top Things to do in Avignon, France
On the western edge of Provence is the brilliant city of Avignon. Here, cobblestone lanes lined with plane trees swirl within the city’s medieval walls. Outdoor cafes sprawl into the squares. Avignon is a very modern city with all the beauty, spirit, and French-ness that Provence has to offer.
A Visit to France’s Fascinating Palace of the Popes
Beginning in 1309, seven popes ruled the Catholic Church from Avignon, France, rather than Rome. To accommodate the needs of the Church and demonstrate its power, the Palace of the Popes was built on the banks of the Rhone.
A First Timer’s Guide to Bordeaux
Exquisite architecture, fresh seafood, a vibrant city with an historic core, and some of the best wine in the world—in a nutshell, this is Bordeaux, France.
Six Magical Villages to Love in Alsace, France
From Colmar to Strasbourg and a handful of impossibly charming villages in between, I followed the Alsace wine route through this unique part of France, eating, wine tasting, and ogling gorgeous buildings along the way.
A Day on the Cotes du Rhone Wine Road
France’s hospitable Cotes du Rhone region is famous for its wine, but the appeal goes beyond that. It offers charming villages, ancient ruins, and views that will make you want to stay awhile.