Maison Pfister, Colmar

You’ll depart Strasbourg in the morning and make your first stop on this day-long tour in Colmar. Discover the charm of the old town, and visit the Pfister house, the Koïfhus, St. Martin’s Collegiate Church, and the picturesque neighborhoods of Little Venice. Explore the lovely village of Eguisheim, surrounded by vineyards. Admire its narrow streets, and the half-timbered houses with their colorful flowers.  Continue on to the fortified town of Riquewirh. Surrounded by ramparts, the village has survived wars and remained intact. See its tiny streets, fortified walls, and 16th-century houses, admiring the architectural harmony. You’ll have free time to explore the town and have lunch. After lunch you’ll follow the scenic Alsace Wine Route. Situated between the Rhine valley and the Vosges mountain range, the 60-year-old route winds across hilly slopes for over 170 kilometers. When you reach Haut Koenigsbourg Castle your guide will take you on a tour of the mighty fortress that overlooks the valley. Built during the 12th century, the Castle occupied a strategic position controlling the wine and wheat routes to the north and the salt route from the east.

Discover the charming town of Colmar on a guided walking tour. Admire the 13th-century Gothic church of Église Saint-Martin, stroll through the picturesque district of La Petite Venise, and visit the Unterlinden Museum. Immerse yourself in the festive magic of the Colmar Christmas Market. Start your tour at the beautiful Église Saint-Martin, a 13th-century Gothic church located in the heart of Colmar. Take in its grand architecture and peaceful interior, noting the beautiful stained glass and detailed carvings. Your guide will share insights about the church’s history and significance in Colmar's development. Next, stroll through La Petite Venise, one of the most picturesque areas of Colmar. The district is known for its narrow canals lined with charming half-timbered houses, all decorated for the holiday season. As you walk along the canals, you’ll be enchanted by the fairy-tale atmosphere, perfect for photographs and capturing the essence of Colmar. Visit the Unterlinden Museum, famous for its diverse collection of fine art and medieval treasures. The museum houses the world-renowned Isenheim Altarpiece and offers an intriguing glimpse into Colmar’s artistic heritage. Explore the galleries to understand how Colmar has influenced art and culture over the centuries. Immerse yourself in the festive magic at the Colmar Christmas Market, located in the old town's cobblestone streets and squares. This market is spread across multiple locations, each offering its unique charm. Explore the wooden chalets filled with handcrafted gifts, Christmas ornaments, and delicious Alsatian specialties such as bredele cookies, foie gras, and vin chaud (mulled wine). The Christmas lights and decorations create a magical atmosphere that perfectly complements the historic architecture of Colmar. Conclude your tour by visiting two of Colmar’s most famous landmarks: the Pfister House, an iconic 16th-century building known for its Renaissance architecture, and the Maison des Têtes, a historic house adorned with 106 sculpted heads. Learn about the history of these remarkable buildings as your guide narrates tales from Colmar’s past, offering a deeper understanding of its medieval legacy.