Basel to Colmar Day Trip at a Glance
Planning your escape and need the key details fast? Here’s a quick summary of your 2025 day trip from Basel to the fairytale town of Colmar.
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance from Basel | ~65 km (40 miles) |
| Average Trip Duration | 45-60 minutes by train or car |
| Best Mode of Transport | Train (SNCF TER) |
| Average Day Trip Cost | €70 – €150 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | May-Sep (weather), Nov-Dec (Christmas Markets) |
How to Get from Basel to Colmar
Crossing the border from Switzerland to France for your day trip is incredibly straightforward. While you have a few options, the train stands out as the most efficient, relaxing, and highly recommended way to travel. Let’s break down how to get there.
By Train (The Best Option)
For a stress-free journey, the train is your best friend. The direct SNCF (TER Grand Est) regional train is the preferred choice for locals and tourists alike. You’ll depart from Basel’s main station, Basel SBB, and arrive at Colmar Gare in just 45 to 60 minutes. Trains typically run at least once per hour, offering fantastic flexibility. Upon arrival, the historic old town is just a pleasant 10-15 minute walk away. Pro tip: Book your tickets a week or two in advance on the SNCF Connect app or website to secure the best prices.
By Car
Driving offers the ultimate flexibility, especially if you plan to explore other Alsatian villages. The 65 km journey takes about 45-60 minutes without traffic. However, there are downsides for a day trip. Remember that you’ll be crossing a border, and if you’re driving in Switzerland, you must have a Swiss highway vignette. Parking in Colmar’s historic center is notoriously difficult and can be costly (around €2-€3 per hour). We recommend using a major car park like Parking Place Rapp or Parking Montagne Verte on the edge of the old town.
By Bus
For the budget-conscious traveler, the bus is a viable option. Operators like FlixBus often have the cheapest fares, sometimes as low as €5-€10 if booked far in advance. The trade-off is a longer journey time of around 1.5 hours and a less frequent schedule compared to the train, which can limit your time in the city.
Transportation Comparison Table
| Mode | Duration | Average Cost (One-Way) | Convenience & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train | 45-60 minutes | €15 – €30 | Highly Recommended. Fast, frequent, and delivers you close to the center. |
| Car | 45-60 minutes | €10-€20 (fuel) + parking | Flexible but parking is a hassle and can be expensive. |
| Bus | ~1.5 hours | €5 – €10 | The cheapest option but slower and less frequent. |
| Taxi | 45-60 minutes | €100 – €150+ | Not recommended. Extremely expensive for this route. |
Top 5 Things to Do in Colmar on a Day Trip
With its compact and walkable center, you can see the very best of Colmar in a single day. Here are the five must-do experiences to prioritize.
- Get Lost in La Petite Venise (Little Venice)
This is the iconic Colmar you’ve seen in photos. A picturesque quarter where the Lauch river flows between colorful, half-timbered houses. Wander the bridges, soak in the atmosphere, and consider a flat-bottomed boat tour for a unique perspective.- Cost: Free to explore on foot. Boat tours cost ~€8 per person.
- Insider Tip: Make this your first stop in the morning! You’ll get beautiful photos with softer light and avoid the midday crowds that pack the bridges.
- Wander the Old Town & Quai de la Poissonnerie
Beyond Little Venice, the entire Old Town is a treasure. Don’t miss the Quai de la Poissonnerie (Fisherman’s Quay), the former hub of the town’s fishermen and boatmen, with its vibrant, restored houses.- Cost: Free.
- Insider Tip: Remember to look up! The ornate facades, carved window frames, and historic signs on the buildings tell a story of centuries past.
- Admire the Isenheim Altarpiece at the Unterlinden Museum
For a dose of world-class art and history, step into the Unterlinden Museum. Housed in a former 13th-century convent, its crown jewel is the breathtaking and emotionally powerful Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald.- Cost: ~€14 for adults.
- Insider Tip: Allow at least 90 minutes for a meaningful visit. Always check their official website for opening hours, as the museum is often closed on Tuesdays.
- Taste Local Flavors at the Marché Couvert
This beautiful covered market is a feast for the senses. It’s a bustling hub where you can find local produce, cheeses, wines, and Alsatian specialties. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick, authentic, and affordable lunch.- Cost: Free to enter; food prices vary.
- Insider Tip: Head to one of the small eateries inside for a freshly made Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche). It’s the quintessential Alsatian snack.
- Snap a Photo of Maison Pfister & Maison des Têtes
Colmar is famous for its unique architecture, and these two buildings are stars of the show. The Maison Pfister (1537) is a magnificent example of early Renaissance design, while the Maison des Têtes (House of Heads, 1609) is adorned with over 100 grotesque masks and figures.- Cost: Free (exterior viewing).
- Insider Tip: For the best postcard shot of Maison Pfister, stand at the corner of Rue des Marchands and Rue Mercière.
A Perfect One-Day Colmar Itinerary from Basel
Want a foolproof plan? Follow this step-by-step itinerary to maximize your day in Colmar without feeling rushed.
Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): The Arrival & Fairytale Views
Catch an early train (around 8:00 AM) from Basel SBB to arrive in Colmar by 9:00 AM. Take the pleasant stroll from the station to the Old Town. Head directly to La Petite Venise to capture its charm before the crowds swell. After taking your photos, hop on a 30-minute boat tour to see the quarter from the water.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM): An Alsatian Feast
You have two great options for lunch. For a quick, casual, and budget-friendly meal, head to the Marché Couvert for local specialties. If you prefer a more relaxed sit-down experience, find a traditional Winstub (wine tavern) in the Old Town for a classic Choucroute Garnie or Tarte Flambée.
Afternoon (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM): Culture & Exploration
Choose your afternoon adventure. If you’re an art and history enthusiast, dedicate your time to the magnificent Unterlinden Museum. If you’d rather keep exploring on foot, spend the afternoon wandering through the Tanners’ Quarter, admiring the Maison Pfister, and browsing the charming independent shops for souvenirs.
Late Afternoon (5:00 PM onwards): Sweet Treats & Departure
Before heading home, treat yourself to a classic Alsatian pastry. Find a local boulangerie (bakery) and try a slice of Kougelhopf, a delicious bundt-style cake. Take one last stroll through the cobblestone streets, then walk back to the station to catch your return train to Basel.
Where to Eat in Colmar: A Taste of Alsace
Alsatian cuisine is hearty, rustic, and delicious. Here are a few recommendations for every budget.
Budget-Friendly (€)
- Marché Couvert: Your best bet for variety and value. Grab a sandwich, a slice of quiche, or a fresh pretzel.
- Boulangerie L’Authentique: A fantastic bakery for grabbing a pastry or a quick sandwich on the go.
Mid-Range & Traditional (€€)
- Wistub Brenner: A classic Winstub known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent, authentic Alsatian dishes.
- Le Fer Rouge: Located in a historic building, it serves regional classics with a great selection of local wines.
A Special Treat (€€€)
- L’Atelier du Peintre: For a fine dining experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative, modern cuisine. Reservations are essential!
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Flawless Day Trip
Keep these tips in mind to make your 2025 Basel to Colmar day trip absolutely perfect.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be walking on cobblestones all day, so comfort is key!
- Book train tickets in advance. Fares are cheaper when you book a week or two ahead on the SNCF Connect website.
- Visit on a weekday. Colmar is incredibly popular, especially on weekends. A Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday will be much less crowded.
- Learn a few French phrases. A simple “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), and “Au revoir” (Goodbye) will be warmly appreciated.
- Bring a portable battery charger. You’ll be taking tons of photos and videos, which can drain your phone battery quickly.
- Check opening times online. Many museums and some smaller shops in France close on Mondays or Tuesdays, so verify hours before you go.
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a sample budget to help you plan your spending for a day trip to Colmar.
| Item | Low-End Cost (€) | High-End Cost (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Return Train Ticket | €30 | €50 |
| Lunch | €15 | €40 |
| Attractions/Tours | €8 | €22 |
| Coffee/Snacks | €5 | €15 |
| Total Per Person | ~€58 | ~€127 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the train ride from Basel to Colmar?
The direct TER train ride from Basel SBB to Colmar is very quick, typically taking between 45 and 60 minutes without any changes.
Is a day trip to Colmar enough?
Yes, a day trip is absolutely enough to experience the highlights of Colmar’s charming old town. You can comfortably explore Little Venice, wander the main streets, enjoy a great meal, and even visit one museum at a relaxed pace.
How much is a taxi from Basel to Colmar?
A taxi is not a practical option. The fare from Basel to Colmar is very expensive, likely costing between €100 and €150 or more each way. The train is significantly more economical and just as fast.
How many days are needed for Colmar?
For Colmar’s old town itself, one full day is perfect. However, if you want to explore the surrounding Alsace Wine Route and visit enchanting nearby villages like Eguisheim or Riquewihr, you would ideally need 2-3 days.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Colmar Day Trip
In a rush? Here’s the ultimate summary:
- Getting There: Take the 45-minute SNCF train from Basel SBB. It’s the fastest and easiest way.
- Must-See: Prioritize La Petite Venise (go early!), the Old Town, and the Marché Couvert for lunch.
- Top Tip: Wear comfy shoes for the cobblestones and visit on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Budget: Plan for about €70-€150 per person for a fantastic day out.
