Little Venice Guide
Picture-Perfect Canals: Explore the Charm of Colmar's Little Venice Guide
Little Venice, or "La Petite Venise" in French, is a picturesque district in Colmar, renowned for its charming canals and colorful half-timbered houses. This enchanting area evokes the romantic atmosphere of Venice, but with a distinct Alsatian flair. Gondola-like boats glide along the canals, offering a unique perspective of the quaint architecture and flower-filled balconies. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a delightful family outing, Little Venice is sure to captivate your senses. The name "Little Venice" likely originated from the area's historical connection to the wine trade. The canals were used to transport goods, including wine barrels, throughout the city. The houses along the canals were often inhabited by fishermen and market gardeners, adding to the area's unique character. Today, Little Venice is a protected historical district, preserving its architectural heritage and attracting visitors from around the world. The most popular activity in Little Venice is taking a boat tour along the canals. These tours provide a relaxing and informative way to see the area's highlights. You can also stroll along the canal banks, admiring the colorful houses and taking photos. Numerous restaurants and cafes line the canals, offering a variety of Alsatian specialties. Be sure to try Tarte Flambée (Flammkuchen), a thin-crust pizza-like dish, and Choucroute Garnie, a hearty dish of sauerkraut and sausages. Don't forget to sample the local Alsatian wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Transportation
From Colmar train station, Little Venice is approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Several bus lines also serve the area. Check the local bus network (Trace) for the most up-to-date schedules and routes. Bus lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R, S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, and Z all have stops within walking distance of Little Venice.