Colmar

Colmar is the best preserved city in Alsace. As a trading post and river port, Colmar had its heyday in the 16th centrue when wine merchants shipped their wine along the waterways running through the picturesque canal quarter, now knows as the Petite Venise. Some of the most popular sites to visit in Colmar are the Koifhüs, Eglise St-Martin, the Musee d'Unterlinden and the Maison Pfister. 

Additional excursions and things to do around Colmar
Eguisheim
Eguisheim is the most exquisite small town, laid out within three concentric rings of 13th-century ramparts. The ensemble of austere fortifications and domestic elegance within makes for a surprisingly harmonious whole. In the center of town you will find the octagonal feudal castle of the Counts of Eguisheim. A Renaissance fountain in front of the statue of Bruno Eguisheim, born here in 1002. The Grand'Rue is lined with half-timbered houses, many showing their construction date. Clost to the castle is the Marbacherhof, a monastic tithe barn and cornhall. On a neighboring square, the modern parish church retains the original Romanesque sculpted tympanum. The rest of the town has its share of Hansel-and-Gretel atmosphere, while inviting courtyards offer tasting so grands crus. The Rue de Hautvilliers, outside the ramparts, a marked path leads through scenic vineyards. You can take a bus from Colmar to Eguisheim, rent a bike or take a leisure walk also (bus ride takes approx. 15 minutes). 

Riquewihr
Vineyards run right up to the ramparts of Riquewihr, the prettiest village of the Route du Vin. Deeply pragmatic, Riquewihr winemakers plant roses at the enf of each row of vines - both for their pretty effect and as early detectors of parasites. The village belonged to the Counts of Wurtemberg until the Revolution and has gown rich on wine, from Tokay and Pinot Gris to Gewürztraminer and Riesling. Virtually an open-air museum, Riquewihr abounds in cobbled alleys, geranium-clad balconies, galleried courtyards, romantic double ramparts, and watchtowers. You can take a bus from Colmar to Riquewihr or rent a car (25-30 minutes travel time from Colmar). 

Ribeauvillé
Overlooked by three ruined castles, Ribeauvillé is stiflingly prettiefied, as may be expected from a favored town on the Route du Vin. This status is partly due to healthy sales of the celebrated grands crus of Alsace, especially Riesling. There are ample opportunities for tastings, partifularly near the park, in the lower part of the town. As locals declare, Ribeauvillé is the capital of the kougelhopf, the almond-flavoured Alsatian cake. Trains depart from Colmar on a regular basis all day long to Ribeauvillé and the travel time is approx. 1 hr.