I recently visited Colmar and found it enchanting. I have another trip planned for the end of August to Freiburg, Germany. There are 12 travelers and we have 6-7 hours to spend in either Colmar or Strausbourg. I loved Colmar because it small, and there was a cute Spring Fair going on. But in August, there isn't a fair and I'm concerned that there isn't enough to see in Colmar. Which city would you recommend in August? I know that Straubourg is a big tourist destination (as is everywhere in Europe). Does Straubourg have more to sites to visit? Thank you for your insights!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32201 posts
Yes, Strasbourg has more sites to visit including the magnificent Cathedral. However in August it's likely to be dreadfully crowded and probably won't be a pleasant holiday experience. At that time of year, I'd still opt for Colmar. You could always base in Colmar and take a day trip to Strasbourg.
Posted by
Chicago
8045 posts
Strasbourg has so much more to offer; the Cathedral alone which is unique is worth the stop.
Posted by
Orinda, California, United States
286 posts
Will you have cars? If so I recommend driving some of the wine route outside of Colmar and visiting either one or 2 of the small villages. Kayserberg, Riquewihr, or Ribeauville are charming. Or Strasbourg old town and Petit France areas are unique as well.
Posted by
Paris
9562 posts
I think if you only have 6 or 7 hours, you can enjoy yourselves in either Strasbourg or Colmar.
I wouldn't think about Strasbourg being overly touristed in August -- the French don't go to their cities for vacation, they go to the sea or the mountains. And as well, the European Parliament is DEFINITELY not meeting there (and taking up hotel rooms) at that time.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
I wasn't as taken with either Strasbourg or Colmar as most are, but I LOVED the Museum of Alsatian Life in Strasbourg, and would go back there just to see more of it.
Posted by
Tampa
27 posts
If you've already been to Colmar I think you should check out Strasbourg. We are planning a trip there in a few weeks and will stay a whole week, with three days just for Strasbourg activities, and day trips the remainder of the time. Strasbourg has lots of museums, including the museum of Modern and Contemporary art, with a Gustav Dore exhibit. He is IMHO one of the great artists of the 19th century and was from Strasbourg. There's also the Alsatian museum, the Palais Rohan with three very unique museums, the cathedral museum (archaeological from what I understand), and the cathedral itself which is supposed to be one of the most beautiful in France and has a unique astronomical clock. There's also a wine cellar in an old hospital, a boat tour, and much more to do and see! Check out the New York Times "36 hours in Strasbourg" video on You Tube.
Lisa from Tampa
Posted by
Albany
161 posts
What about Obernai as a base? Small and cute, with a vineyard walk to hillside trails and a castle, all walkable. You can take the train in for day trips to beloved Strasbourg and Colmar.
Cleo