Colmar, A French Fairytale

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Originally our trip to Switzerland is just to fully focused on exploring the nation but being me, I wanna do some cross-border trip. While browsing some Instagram stories, I came across Bibie Karim where she travelled to Colmar from Basel. This fairytale town in northeastern France has always been one of my wishlists to go ever since I came back from Bukit Tinggi, Pahang. Coincidentally, I have added Basel in our Switzerland plan and the travel time from Basel to Colmar only takes less than 50 minutes (better than taking train from Paris as it will takes nearly 3 hours to Colmar). 

HOW TO GET TO COLMAR FROM LUCERNE & BASEL

We began our trip from Lucerne and from there, we took train to Basel. As usual, both of us always kick off our trip as early as we can. The journey from Lucerne to Basel takes roughly an hour plus for the direct train. For your information, ticket to Colmar is not covered under Swiss Travel Pass and you can't purchase it from the ticket machine. So once you arrive at Basel Station, immediately head to SBB ticket office in the main hall to get the ticket to Colmar. And don't forget to bring along your passport. One way train fare from Basel to Colmar costs CHF17 (approx. to RM77).  

#1: We began our journey from Lucerne as we're based there for 3 nights. 

#2: Ticket to Colmar can only be purchased at SBB Ticket Office and must bring along your passport with you. The ticket is not covered under Swiss Travel Pass. 

ARRIVING COLMAR 
The train to Colmar from Basel was incredibly fast and we're almost missed our station. There is no border control as France and Switzerland are part of the Schengen area. We alighted at Colmar Station and from there, we walked to the magical fairytale town which is about 10 minutes of walking. Luckily the Sim Card we bought from Shopee was workable in France too. 

#3: Colmar Station is 10 minutes of walking to the magical fairytale town. 

THINGS WE DO AND SEE IN COLMAR  

1) La Petite Venice (Little Venice)

This is the first place we visited before the crowds arrive. A definitely spot you must dropby no matter how short your trip is as this area is lined with colourful houses and buildings along the river. Not just that it's feast for the eyes but perfectly feast for the Gram too. 

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2) Marche Couvert (Colmar Covered Market)

Not far away from the Little Venice is the indoor market features various stalls selling meat, cheese, fruits, vegetables, pastries, coffees and more. 

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3) Historic Centre of Colmar 

The historic centre of Colmar is undeniably one of the most beautiful historical centres in Europe. This area has kept its authenticity where everything is unique and can only be found and see in Colmar town. One of the buildings you shouldn't miss is Au Vieux Pignon, one of the oldest houses in town. Every year this building was decorated regularly and renewed decorations. 

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#11: One of the buildings you shouldn't miss is Au Vieux Pignon, one of the oldest houses in town

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4) The Pfister House

One of the symbols of the city of Colmar is the Pfister House. It is an example of Renaissance architecture in Colmar. The scenes, paintings are inspired by the Bible and the Old Testament but there are also portraits of Germanic emperors on its facade. "Pfister House" got its name three hundred years after it was built when François Joseph Pfister became the owner of the house. It is an emblematic place in Colmar and classified as historical monument. 

 

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5) St. Martin's Church 

This Roman Catholic Church is a huge striking edifice set in tiny of Colmar old town streets. It dominates the town skyline with its lavish Gothic beauty. 

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6) Best Croissant and Pastries at Gilg 

A trip to Colmar is incomplete without savour one of the French's most popular pastries, which is the croissant. And Gilg claimed to be one of the best pastries in Colmar.  

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Colmar is quite popular for Christmas holiday and if you are planning to visit Colmar, perhaps you can plan on this festive season.  

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