Things to do at night in Colmar to experience the city like a local

Colmar is now part of France, but that wasn't always the case. Situated close to the border with Germany and not far from Switzerland, this town has changed hands between France and Germany for hundreds of years. That has left it with a unique atmosphere that is perhaps best exemplified by its colorful half-timbered houses that date back to the Middle Ages and look more like something out of a German fairytale than anything you'd expect to find in modern France.

A stop on the famous Alsace wine route, Colmar's Old Town is a fantastic place to get better acquainted with the Alsace wine region and the local sparkling wine. Pierced by multiple canals, the scenic city is sometimes called Little Venice. And while it can get extremely busy in the summer, Colmar remains a great place to try Alsatian food in the famous covered market, take the tourist train through Colmar city center, and enjoy the best of both French and German culture.

If anything, the city becomes even more enchanting at night. Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Colmar and you can explore this beautiful city hands-free after the sun sets to see just why visiting Colmar is such a good idea.

What to do in Colmar at night if you’re looking for…

Colmar is a fairytale destination known for its half-timbered houses, charming canals, and vibrant culinary scene. By night, Colmar transforms into a magical place, with warm lights illuminating its cobblestone streets and canals. Here’s how to enjoy Colmar after dark based on your preferences.

An energetic night out

For an energetic evening in Colmar, start in the lively Colmar Old Town, where quaint bars, cafes, and eateries line the streets. Begin your night with a stroll along Quai de la Poissonnerie, one of Colmar’s most iconic spots with its colorful houses reflected in the canal. This area is lively at night, often filled with locals and tourists enjoying the evening air.

Pro tip: Check for any seasonal night events, like the Colmar Wine Fair or the Christmas Market (if visiting in winter), as these are vibrant social gatherings that highlight Alsace’s culture.

For a true taste of the region, head to a wine tasting at one of the wine bars along Rue des Vignerons or in the Old Town. As part of Alsace’s wine route, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample the region’s famous white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.

Pro tip: Pair your wine with a taste of foie gras, a specialty of the Alsace region. Many wine bars offer small plates that perfectly complement the local wines.

Leave the bags behind while you explore

These beautiful streets are no place for heavy bags. And if you're traveling late in the year to see the Christmas markets, you'll be able to enjoy mulled wine or hot chocolate a lot easier with your hands free. Leave the bags behind at a Bounce luggage storage facility to move more easily through the crowded streets of this beautiful location.

A wholesome night out

If you’re looking for a relaxing and culturally enriching night, start with a visit to the Unterlinden Museum, a former convent-turned-museum that holds an impressive collection of artwork, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. The museum often hosts late openings, allowing you to experience its art and history in a quieter, more intimate setting.

Pro tip: Make time to explore the museum’s garden courtyard, which is beautifully lit at night, offering a peaceful spot for reflection.

After the museum, take a leisurely walk to Rue des Clefs, one of Colmar’s main shopping streets. At night, Rue des Clefs is charmingly quiet, making it a pleasant route to stroll while admiring the Old Town’s architecture. Nearby, you’ll find restaurants serving traditional Alsatian food, from choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausage) to tarte flambée (an Alsatian-style flatbread).

Pro tip: If you’re visiting Colmar with family, look out for restaurants with outdoor seating in small squares, where kids can play while adults enjoy a relaxing meal.

An easy-going night out

For a casual, easy-going night, start with dinner in a cozy brasserie in Colmar Old Town. Enjoy a traditional Alsatian food experience with dishes like coq au Riesling or baeckeoffe, a hearty meat and vegetable casserole. The local restaurants often have a warm, rustic ambiance, perfect for a relaxed meal.

Pro tip: Try a local beer or wine with your meal. The Alsace region produces both, so you have plenty of options to pair with your dinner.

After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Quai de la Poissonnerie, which is especially scenic at night with the buildings’ reflections in the canal. The peaceful ambiance and beautiful scenery make it a lovely spot to end the night.

If you’re still in the mood for exploring, walk toward Colmar Train Station, where you’ll find some quaint cafes and shops open later into the evening. This area has a quieter vibe, ideal for winding down after an evening in the Colmar town center.

Don't let heavy bags drag you down

Close to the railway station, you'll find lots of Bounce luggage storage locations that can hold onto your bags for you. That means you can leave any shopping or souvenirs you picked up during the day behind and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the town, knowing your things will be ready to pick up when you want them.

A refreshing night out

To recharge in Colmar’s serene atmosphere, start with an early evening walk along the scenic Rue des Vignerons, a charming street that winds through some of the town’s prettiest areas. This route is lined with wine shops and historic buildings, creating a relaxing ambiance ideal for unwinding.

Pro tip: Pick up a bottle of local Alsatian wine to enjoy later on or as a souvenir. Many wine shops offer tastings, so you can sample and select your favorite.

Next, take a short walk to Colmar Old Town and head towards Saint-Martin Cathedral. The cathedral is beautifully illuminated at night, and the surrounding area has a peaceful, almost reverent ambiance. Take a quiet moment to appreciate the Gothic architecture and the charm of the surrounding streets.

Pro tip: Bring a light jacket, as evenings can get cool even in summer. Find a bench nearby to sit and enjoy the view of the cathedral and the town in the evening light.

A romantic night out

For a romantic night in Colmar, start with a sunset walk through Colmar Old Town, where the soft lighting and charming half-timbered houses create an intimate, fairytale atmosphere.

Pro tip: For an extra touch of romance, bring along a small picnic with wine and cheese. There are many quiet spots along the canal to sit and enjoy a cozy moment together.

After your walk, make your way to a restaurant specializing in Alsatian cuisine, and share a meal of traditional dishes like foie gras or tarte flambée. Many restaurants in the Old Town have candlelit tables, adding to the romantic ambiance.

To cap off your night, visit a wine bar along rue des Vignerons for an intimate wine-tasting experience. Many bars offer private tastings, allowing you and your partner to sample the region’s best wines in a relaxed, quiet setting.

Pro tip: Order a flight of Alsace’s signature wines, including a sweet Muscat or Pinot Gris, which make a delightful end to a romantic evening.

Enjoy dinner without the heavy bags

A romantic restaurant is no place to be carrying more than you need to. Leave the heavy bags behind with Bounce so that you can focus on your dinner and on the company to make your evening extra memorable.

Whether you’re seeking a lively night of wine tasting, a quiet evening stroll by the canal, or a taste of Colmar’s rich culture, this beautiful town offers a variety of experiences to make your visit unforgettable. From the charming streets of Colmar Old Town to the cozy atmosphere of the local eateries, visiting Colmar after dark is like stepping into a dream. And since few of your dreams probably involve dragging heavy bags around with you, make sure to take advantage of Bounce luggage storage when you visit Colmar. Leaving your bags behind with us means you can explore the city hands-free, absorb the unrivaled atmosphere of this Alsatian town, and get to as many of the great things to do at night in Colmar as possible.