Lucerne was the first stop of our Switzerland journey, a place that immediately charmed us with its serene beauty and countless possibilities for adventure. While Lucerne serves as a gateway to iconic mountain excursions like Mount Rigi, Titlis, and Pilatus, we found ourselves yearning for something a little different—a new experience, a unique escape. That’s when a bit of research unveiled a gem just across the border: Colmar, the picture-perfect town nestled in France’s Alsace region. With its enchanting streets and rich culture, it seemed like the perfect day trip.
A quick two-hour train ride later, we found ourselves stepping into a town that felt like stepping straight into a fairy tale. Colmar’s charm hits you the moment you arrive: cobblestone streets lined with colourful half-timbered houses, each adorned with vibrant flower boxes. It’s a place where every corner seems made for a postcard, and we found ourselves constantly reaching for our cameras.
By mid-morning, the crisp November air had worked up our appetite. Colmar is dotted with cozy little bistros, but one in particular caught our eye—an al fresco setup that looked too inviting to pass up. Sure, there was a definite nip in the air, but that only added to the charm. Bundled up in coats, with the sun gently filtering through the trees, we decided to embrace the moment because, well, why not?
Here, we were introduced to Tarte Flambée, the Alsatian take on pizza. Thin, crisp, and topped with cream, onions, and smoky bacon, it was love at first bite. The perfect pairing? A refreshing glass of Aperol Spritz, because what better way to toast to such a magical day? The laughter of locals and the warmth of outdoor heaters created a lively yet intimate atmosphere we won’t soon forget.
Fueled up and ready to explore, we wandered through Colmar’s maze of streets, each one more charming than the last. The Petite Venise area, with its canal-side houses and quaint bridges, stole our hearts. We couldn’t resist snapping photos of the pastel facades reflected in the water—a scene straight out of a painting. Around every corner was another photo-worthy moment: the intricate details of the Unterlinden Museum, the majestic Saint Martin’s Church, and the bustling Market Hall filled with local delicacies.
As the day unfolded, Colmar continued to surprise us with its blend of history and whimsy. We loved spotting hidden alleyways and stumbling upon quiet courtyards, each one offering a new perspective of this picturesque town. The afternoon light cast a golden glow over the town, making every photo look like a masterpiece.
As we made our way back to Lucerne, we couldn’t help but reflect on how perfectly Colmar had balanced our trip. It was a day of beauty, flavor, and a whole lot of inspiration.
