Colmar, a picturesque city in Alsace, France, is the perfect destination to ring in the new year. This charming town offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, beautiful canals, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal spot for a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration.
Why Visit Colmar on New Year’s Eve?
Colmar is a city that shines during Christmas festivities, with a long path of twinkling lights guiding visitors through its historic streets. On New Year’s Eve, the atmosphere is enriched by concerts, music, and dances, resulting in a truly magical experience that makes Colmar one of those places worth visiting.
Plan Your Trip to Colmar: Flight+Hotel and Tour Deals
Getting to Colmar is relatively easy, with Strasbourg Airport being the closest major airport. From Milan, there are direct buses from Flixbus (from €30) and Trenitalia solutions with a change in Basel (from €80).
For your stay in Colmar, we recommend the Petite Venise neighborhood, which is central but more expensive, or Saint Leon, which is farther from the center but less expensive. Hotel rooms start at €70.00 per night and do not include meals. With breakfast or half-board, prices go up to €100.00 per night.
If you stay outside the city center, you can use efficient buses TRACE or public bicycles, while the historic city center is easily visited on foot. To access various attractions for free, we recommend purchasing a Colmar City Pass. It lasts 7 days and costs €32.00 adults, €28.00 young people (9-17 years), and is free for children under 8 years old.
Must-See Tours, Activities, and Experiences
New Year’s Eve in Colmar offers a variety of events and activities to suit all tastes. Here are some must-see experiences:
- Gala Concert of Saint Sylvester: The ice rink of Colmar hosts a free gala concert on New Year’s Eve, featuring music, artistic figure skating, and impressive voices.
- “Les voeux du veilleur de nuit” at Turckheim: This medieval village, located just over 6 km from Colmar, hosts a special historical reenactment of the Nightwatchman on New Year’s Eve, accompanied by a mixed choir.
- Galà di Capodanno in Colmar: Local restaurants organize their own events, featuring dinner, music, and dancing. Prices vary from €80.00 to €200.00 per person.
Best Bars for Young People, Clubs, and Discos
For those who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style, here are some of the best bars, clubs, and discos in Colmar:
- Collis Martis
- Bar Ristorante Discoteca
- Avenue de la Foire aux Vins
- Au Bureau Colmar
- Le Coin du Meunier
- Le Théâtre
- Amnesia Bar
Weather and Useful Information
Colmar’s weather during New Year’s Eve is semi-continentale, with cold winters and frequent snowfalls. Temperatures can drop below zero in December and January.
Getting to Colmar is easy, with direct buses from Milan (from €30) or trains from Strasbourg Airport (about an hour).
Tips for a Successful Trip
- Book your accommodations and flights well in advance to avoid high prices.
- Pack warm clothing for the winter weather.
- Consider purchasing a Colmar City Pass for free access to attractions.
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular events.
Safety Precautions
Colmar is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions when traveling:
- Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas, especially during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
- Keep an eye on your drinks and personal belongings at all times.
Health and Medical Care
If you need medical assistance during your trip, our recommended insurance company offers comprehensive coverage with 24/7 medical consultation phone service. Make sure to purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage before your trip.
Language and Communication
French is the official language of France, but many locals in Colmar speak English, especially in tourist areas. If you’re not fluent in French, consider purchasing a translation guide or using a reputable taxi company.
Currency and Money
The Euro is the official currency of France. You can exchange your money at a bank or use an ATM to withdraw cash. Credit cards are widely accepted in Colmar, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash handy for small purchases.
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Getting Around
Colmar has a compact city center that is easily walkable. However, if you need to travel outside the center, buses TRACE and public bicycles can be used. The historic city center is also accessible by bike or on foot.
Food and Drink
Colmar is famous for its traditional Alsatian cuisine, which includes dishes such as tarte flambée (a thin crust topped with bacon, onions, and cheese), kugelhopf (a sweet bread), and baeckeoffe (a hearty stew). Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your trip.
Accommodation Options
Colmar offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. We recommend booking your accommodations well in advance to avoid high prices.
Romantic Activities
If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, consider enjoying a romantic dinner at one of Colmar’s many restaurants. The city also offers horse-drawn carriage rides and scenic walks along the canals.
Tips for Families
Colmar is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to suit all ages. Consider booking accommodations that offer family-friendly amenities such as breakfast or half-board options.
Conclusion
Colmar, France is a must-visit destination for New Year’s Eve. With its unique blend of history, culture, and festive atmosphere, this charming town offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for concerts, dancing, or simply a chance to relax with friends and family, Colmar has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What is the weather like in Colmar on New Year’s Eve?
A: The weather in Colmar during New Year’s Eve is semi-continentale, with cold winters and frequent snowfalls. - Q: How do I get to Colmar from Milan?
A: You can take a direct bus from Flixbus (from €30) or trains from Strasbourg Airport (about an hour). - Q: What are the best bars for young people in Colmar?
A: Some of the best bars for young people in Colmar include Collis Martis, Bar Ristorante Discoteca, and Amnesia Bar. - Q: How much does it cost to attend events in Colmar on New Year’s Eve?
A: Prices vary from €80.00 to €200.00 per person for dinner and events organized by local restaurants. - Q: Can I get a refund if I need medical assistance during my trip?
A: Yes, our recommended insurance company offers comprehensive coverage with 24/7 medical consultation phone service. - Q: How do I access the city center on foot?
A: The historic city center is easily visited on foot, while buses TRACE and public bicycles can be used to travel outside the center. - Q: Can I use my credit card at bars and restaurants in Colmar?
A: Yes, most bars and restaurants accept major credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash handy. - Q: What are the opening hours for public transportation in Colmar?
A: Public buses operate from 6:00 AM to midnight, while nighttime service is available on weekends.
Additional Tips
- Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular events.
- Consider purchasing a Colmar City Pass for free access to attractions.
- Pack warm clothing for the winter weather.
- Book your accommodations and flights well in advance to avoid high prices.
- Take some time to explore the city’s charming streets and canals.
Final Thoughts
Colmar, France is a magical destination that offers an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Whether you’re looking for concerts, dancing, or simply a chance to relax with friends and family, Colmar has something for everyone. With its unique blend of history, culture, and festive atmosphere, this charming town is the perfect place to ring in the new year.
Getting Ready for Your Trip
Before your trip, make sure to:
- Book your accommodations and flights well in advance.
- Purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
- Exchange your money or use an ATM to withdraw cash.
- Pack warm clothing for the winter weather.
- Consider purchasing a Colmar City Pass for free access to attractions.
Happy Traveling
We hope you have a wonderful trip to Colmar, France. Don’t forget to take some time to explore the city’s charming streets and canals, and to enjoy all the festive atmosphere that comes with New Year’s Eve celebrations.
