Shopping Guide in Colmar

Practical travel guide for Colmar, France

Shopping Guide in Colmar

What to Buy in Colmar

Alsatian Wine: The region's most famous product. Look for Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Crémant d'Alsace sparkling wine. Buy directly from wineries along the Wine Route for best prices and selection, or visit wine shops in town like Cave de Turckheim or Vins d'Alsace Gilg. Prices range from €8-50 per bottle depending on quality and vintage.

Kougelhopf Pottery: Traditional Alsatian ceramic molds for the famous Kougelhopf cake, often beautifully decorated. Available at pottery shops and souvenir stores (€15-60).

Pottery and Ceramics: Hand-painted Alsatian pottery featuring traditional motifs like storks, half-timbered houses, and floral patterns. Available at local artisan shops throughout the old town.

Foie Gras and Terrines: Local specialties from butcher shops and delicatessens. Vacuum-sealed packages travel well. Try Maison Ferber or local charcuteries.

Munster Cheese: The region's famous strong-smelling cheese. Buy from fromageries in the Marché Couvert or specialty cheese shops. Can be vacuum-packed for travel.

Artisanal Chocolate: Visit chocolatiers like Chocolaterie Caspar for handmade pralines and truffles (€30-50/kg).

Gingerbread (Pain d'épices): Traditional spiced honey cake, especially popular at Christmas. Try Fortwenger or Lips for authentic versions.

Storks and Alsatian Souvenirs: The white stork is Alsace's symbol. Find stork-themed items from plush toys to decorative items. Also look for half-timbered house miniatures and regional costumes.

Linens and Textiles: Beautifully embroidered table linens, tea towels featuring Alsatian motifs. Mulhouse's textile heritage means quality fabrics at reasonable prices.

Where to Shop

Marché Couvert (Covered Market): Open Tuesday-Saturday, this is the place for local food products, cheese, wine, and charcuterie. Wednesday and Thursday are busiest days.

Rue des Marchands: Main shopping street with boutiques, wine shops, and specialty stores.

Place de l'Ancienne Douane: Saturday morning outdoor market with local producers, crafts, and antiques.

Christmas Markets (November-December): Five different markets throughout town selling handcrafted gifts, decorations, local foods, and seasonal items.

Shopping Tips

  • Most shops close Sunday and Monday mornings - plan accordingly
  • Wine purchased directly from producers along the Wine Route is typically 20-30% cheaper than in town shops
  • Ask about vacuum-packing for cheese and wine to facilitate travel
  • Credit cards widely accepted, but small vendors at markets may prefer cash
  • VAT refunds (détaxe) available for non-EU residents on purchases over €100 from participating stores
  • Bargaining is not common in France except at antique markets

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