La Petite Venise travel guide

Petite Venise, or 'Little Venice', is one of the most enchanting areas in Colmar, France. This picturesque neighborhood dates back to the 17th century, when it served as the economic hub of Colmar.

The area was originally inhabited by market gardeners, fishermen, and wine producers who relied heavily on the canal for trade and transport. The name 'Petite Venise' was coined in the early 20th century due to its striking resemblance to the Italian city of Venice, with its charming half-timbered houses lining the canal.

In the 1970s, Petite Venise underwent a significant renovation to preserve its historical charm and cultural heritage. Today, it remains one of the most visited spots in Colmar, attracting tourists with its unique blend of history, beauty, and tranquility.

Located in the dynamic Haut-Rhin, the popular La Petite Venise is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Colmar or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through France.

Colmar is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Colmar offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Colmar and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Parc du Champ de Mars, Unterlinden Museum, PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S, Musée du Jouet, and Statue de la Liberté.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Colmar has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Colmar, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in France!

La Petite Venise is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Colmar, France. If you're flying in, Zürich Airport is approximately 69.5 miles (111.8 km) away from Colmar. From there, you can easily reach La Petite Venise by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Colmar, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach La Petite Venise, which is located 0.3 miles (0.4 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to La Petite Venise, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is 14 Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar, France, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at La Petite Venise!

With a rental car, discovering the popular La Petite Venise and France's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 2 reputable rental car companies near Zürich Airport and the town of Colmar, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in France cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Colmar and beyond.

The best time to explore Petite Venise in Colmar is during the late spring and early autumn. Between May and June or September and October, the weather is typically pleasant without the summer crowds, offering a serene experience. These periods also coincide with the flowering season, enhancing the beauty of this charming district with vibrant floral displays. Moreover, visiting in early December allows tourists to experience the magical ambiance of Colmar’s Christmas markets, a unique opportunity to enjoy the festive spirit and local crafts. To avoid high tourist influx, weekday visits are recommended. For the best photography, early morning or late afternoon offer softer lighting conditions. Whether you're navigating the scenic canals, exploring the colorful half-timbered houses, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this quaint French town, these periods offer the ideal blend of weather, crowd levels, and unique experiences for an unforgettable visit to Petite Venise in Colmar.

Conveniently explore La Petite Venise and plenty more captivating attractions in Colmar by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to La Petite Venise and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Colmar has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting La Petite Venise below.

Aside from La Petite Venise, Colmar is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Colmar, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Parc du Champ de Mars, Unterlinden Museum, and PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S.

Parc du Champ de Mars is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Colmar, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,500 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Parc du Champ de Mars is Av. De la République, 68000 Colmar, France.

Another appreciated attraction in Colmar is Unterlinden Museum. Like Parc du Champ de Mars, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars among 3,400 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Pl. Des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar, France.

PETIT TRAIN TOURISTIQUE de COLMAR (VERT) - TRAIN'S is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Colmar. This establishment and top attraction in Colmar has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 3,300 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of 3 Rue Kléber, 68000 Colmar, France.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Colmar below.