Colmar boasts world-class museums housing masterpieces of medieval and Renaissance art, as well as specialized collections that appeal to diverse interests. The city's cultural offerings rival those of much larger European cities.
The Unterlinden Museum was born from the creation of the Schongauer company in 1847 and the discovery of a Gallo-Roman mosaic in Bergheim in 1848. A visit covers nearly 7,000 years of history, from the prehistoric era to 20th century art. The Medieval cloister presents art of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, with works by Martin Schongauer, Hans Holbein, and Lucas Cranach, as well as the museum's great masterpiece, the Isenheim Altarpiece (1512–1516). The architects Herzog & de Meuron connected the 13th century convent to the former municipal baths building with a contemporary extension and underground gallery. This is France's second most visited museum outside Paris.
Dedicated to Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, this museum is housed in his birthplace. Explore original models, sketches, and personal belongings that tell the story of how a Colmar native created one of the world's most recognizable monuments. The museum provides fascinating insight into Bartholdi's other works, including the Lion of Belfort, and his artistic process. A must-visit for anyone interested in art history, sculpture, or American-French cultural connections.
Located inside an old cinema building, this museum features an impressive collection of toys from the 1800s to today. Visitors will find a fantastic display including Barbie dolls, video games, Playmobil, and much more. The museum appeals to all ages, allowing adults to reminisce about their childhood while children discover toys from different eras. It's particularly enjoyable for families visiting Colmar with kids and provides a nostalgic journey through two centuries of playtime.
This is an interactive chocolate museum with several tastings included during your visit. Learn about chocolate's fascinating history from ancient Mesoamerica to modern-day production. The museum offers engaging displays and demonstrations showing how chocolate is made. It's something fun to do in Colmar with kids, but adults will appreciate it too, with options for regular tickets or chocolate-making workshops. The tastings throughout the visit make this a deliciously educational experience.
Located in the same building as the chocolate museum, here you'll learn about the history of wine in Alsace, the production process, and the different grape varieties. There are games and quizzes along the way, making it more engaging, and of course, there is a wine tasting at the end. This is one of the only places in the region offering comprehensive understanding of Alsatian wine culture. Perfect for wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of the region's viticultural heritage.
The collection covers the mineralogy, zoology, paleontology, and ethnography of the region, with temporary exhibits rotated throughout the year. Discover the fascinating natural history of Alsace, from prehistoric times to modern ecosystems. Learn about unique regional wildlife and geological formations. The museum provides educational insight into the area's natural heritage and cultural anthropology, making it ideal for curious minds and families seeking an educational experience.