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Colmar: Howl’s Moving Castle in real life

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reviewer12345United Kingdom

Travel Mentor

Colmar: Howl’s Moving Castle in real life

#europeonbudget the town that inspired Howl’s Moving Castle and Beauty and the Beast! Wander through the fairytale streets of Colmar and immerse yourself the charming atmosphere. See the houses around Little Venice and Maison Pfister that inspired Sophie’s town, and try French biscuits at the biscuiteries. Visit the local Cathedral to view the beautiful stained glass windows and if you are lucky, you might even see a donkey and his owner wandering just outside #summervacay #thingstodo #localfood

Posted: Jul 20, 2025

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Little Venice

4.5/538 reviews | Historic buildings

Colmar

No.1 of Best Things to Do in Alsace

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Colmar is straight out of a fairytale and I was living for it! 💫 Pastel-hued houses, cobbled lanes, and flower-boxed windows made every corner camera-worthy. The highlight? Exploring Little Venice by foot and finding the picture-perfect viewpoint over the canals — a total must if you want those Instagrammable vibes! 📸 Top Spots to Visit: Little Venice (Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000 Colmar, France, Open 24/7): Wander through this dreamy district where colorful homes line the canal and every reflection looks like a painting. Early morning is epic for soft lighting and avoiding crowds! Point de vue sur La Petite Venise (1 Pl. des 6 Montagnes Noires, 68000 Colmar, France, Open 24/7): This iconic viewpoint is where you’ll get the classic ("Little Venice") shot. Bring a snack and just soak up the tranquil scene — it’s even prettier than the postcards! Pro Tip: Wear comfy shoes — cobblestones aren’t high-heel friendly. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you roam, and don’t be shy about ducking into side streets for secret photo ops and quirky little shops. Getting Around: Colmar’s old town is super walkable. No need for a car or taxi — everything’s just steps away! Foodie Tip: Grab a tarte flambée or a fresh-baked pretzel from a local boulangerie. Outdoor cafés along the canal are perfect to people-watch and sample Alsace wines. Essentials: Colmar is compact, so give yourself time to simply wander and get lost. No special tickets or visas needed for EU travelers. Weather can swing, so pack a light jacket. #ColmarGuide #FairytaleFrance #EuropeTravel

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Colmar, a fairytale town 🏰 in the Alsace region of eastern France, is known for its colorful wooden houses, winding canals, and medieval streets. Not only was it one of the inspirations for "Howl's Moving Castle," it's also home to one of Europe's most romantic Christmas markets. It's a delightful place to visit year-round, but the sea of flowers in spring and summer and the illuminations in winter are particularly captivating. 📸 Photos have been sent. Here are a selection of Colmar's fairytale streets and canal scenery. Come and experience the charm of this dreamy town! --- 🗺️ Recommended Must-Visit Attractions Attractions Highlights Little Venice (La Petite Venise): Colorful houses, canals, and flowers make it a dreamy photo spot. A boat tour is recommended. 🌸🚤 Colmar's Old Town: Medieval streets, wooden houses, and painted walls, perfect for a leisurely stroll and street photography. 📷 The Indre Museum (Musée Unterlinden) exhibits the Isenheim Altarpiece and medieval art, a must-see for art lovers. 🎨 Collégiale Saint-Martin: Gothic architecture and stained glass, a landmark of Colmar. ⛪ The Toy Museum & Watch Museum: Perfect for family trips, showcasing antique toys and exquisite clocks. 🧸🕰️ Christmas Market (winter only): City-wide illuminations, market stalls, and mulled wine, one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. 🎄✨ --- 🍽️ Must-Try Food Recommendations • Tarte flambée (Alsatian Baked Pie): Flatbread, onions, and bacon, similar to French pizza • Choucroutte (Sausage Platter): A German-French hybrid, generously portioned • Foie gras (Foie gras): A French classic, recommended with a sweet wine • Alsatian white wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer, offer a refreshing, fruity aroma • Honey gingerbread and macarons: A must-try for dessert lovers, available at markets and pastry shops --- 🚇 Transportation • From Paris, take the TGV high-speed train to Strasbourg → Transfer to the TER train to Colmar (approximately 30 minutes) • Direct train service from Basel, Switzerland (approximately 1 hour) • The city is primarily walkable, with many attractions concentrated. You can also rent bicycles or take the sightseeing train. --- 🏨 Accommodation Recommendations • Hotel Saint-Martin: Located in the heart of the old town, the colorful houses offer a truly dreamy view. • James Boutique Hotel: Exceptionally stylish, close to the station and market. • Maison Martin JUND: Family-style hotel with a winery experience. • Winter Recommendation: Choose a hotel near the Christmas market, such as Le Colombier. --- 💡 Tips • Spring and summer are perfect for photo opportunities during the flower season, while the Christmas market is at its most vibrant in winter. • Many restaurants require reservations, so booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and during festive periods. • Colmar is a city of mixed German and French influences, and some shops offer German or English. • Markets and museums are mostly open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, so please check opening hours. • Combine Riquewihr and Eguisheim for a day trip to the Alsace wine country.

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