What to do in Colmar when it rains? My 7 ideas
Even when it's raining, there's plenty to do in Colmar. If you're just passing through and the weather's not cooperating, don't panic: there's plenty to do under cover. Here are my ideas for discovering Colmar in the rain.
1. Visit Colmar’s museums
Is it raining? Don’t worry, you can explore the city’s museums. The best known is the Musée Unterlinden, housed in a former convent. It houses the famous Issenheim Altarpiece, as well as works of ancient, modern and contemporary art. Others include the Musée du Jouet, perfect if you’re with children (or just feeling nostalgic), or the Musée Bartholdi, dedicated to the creator of the Statue of Liberty. Visit our article dedicated to Colmar’s museums to find out more about each one.
2. Discover local gastronomy in a winstub
There’s nothing like a good Alsatian meal to warm you up, I guarantee it! Winstubs are typical Alsatian restaurants serving traditional dishes in a convivial atmosphere. Sauerkraut, baeckeoffe, tarte flambée, spätzle… All accompanied by a glass of Alsace wine, of course! In Colmar, you’ll easily find them in the historic center, with their woodsy decor and checkered tablecloths. Check out my article on my favorite restaurants in Colmar.
3. Shopping at the Halles du Marché Couvert
Housed in an attractive brick and metal building, the Halles du Marché Couvert in Colmar is home to some fifteen stalls: cheese makers, bakers, market gardeners, grocers… You’ll come here to do your shopping as much as to enjoy a tasty meal, because the atmosphere is so friendly! In fact, some stalls even offer small “eat-on-the-go” formulas. Perfect for a gourmet break out of the rain, and to buy a few gourmet souvenirs from Alsace!
Also on the blog
4. Take part in an Alsace wine tasting
Colmar is at the heart of Alsace’s vineyards: it’s even the capital of Alsace wines. Even in the rain, you can enjoy it! Several wineries offer wine tastings in the town center (visit Martin Jund, for example) or in the surrounding villages. It’s a great way to discover local grape varieties (riesling, gewurztraminer, pinot gris…) and talk to wine enthusiasts. You can also take advantage of a visit to the Musée des Vins d’Alsace for a tasting session.
5. Relax in a café or tearoom
When it’s cold outside, you just want to relax in a cosy place. Colmar is home to some lovely tea rooms and cafés, perfect for reading, chatting or simply enjoying a good pastry. Some even offer rare teas or house specialties. A great way to warm up gently.
6. Discover the Dominican Library
A slightly secret place, but well worth a visit: the Bibliothèque des Dominicains. It houses rich ancient collections in a setting steeped in history. Even if you don’t plan to read for hours on end, it’s well worth a visit for its magnificent books, peaceful atmosphere and superb vaults… But also to visit the free museum space, dedicated to the history of books and images in Alsace from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
My guide to Colmar
Plan an unforgettable stay in Colmar and the surrounding area without wasting any time, thanks to my guide ! You’ll find the most beautiful places to visit, activities not to be missed and the best addresses!
7. Take a cooking class
Why not take advantage of the rain to learn something new? Several workshops in Colmar offer cooking classes, sometimes focusing on local specialties. The Musée Choco-Story also offers chocolate workshops. What better way to spend a convivial, gourmet moment!
