La Petite Venise — Attraction in Colmar-Ribeauvillé

La Petite Venise, nestled in Colmar’s Krutenau district, is a delight for the eyes. The canalised Lauch river gently winds between vividly painted half-timbered houses dating from the 14th to 18th centuries . The façades frequently burst into bloom—window boxes overflowing with colourful flowers add a wondrous, living frame to this already storybook neighborhood .

As you stroll, the atmosphere feels like stepping back in time—ancient cobbled streets, quaint lanes such as Rue de la Poissonnerie, Rue Turenne, and the Pont de l’Abreuvoir spill extended village charm into the historic old town .

Canal Cruise – A Gentle Glide Through History

One of the quintessential experiences here is a river cruise along the Lauch. The boats are modern-day echoes of flat-bottomed barges once used by market gardeners and fishmongers to bring their goods to Colmar’s market .

These tranquil barge rides—offered by operators like Sweet Narcisse or Colmar au fil de l’eau—offer a fresh perspective, gliding under scenic bridges and past picturesque houses . Many visitors speak of how peaceful and immersive the experience is:

The 25-minute river ride, priced at €9, is a popular option—sweet, soothing, and affordably priced for a memorable view of Colmar...

Venice Italy is still 300 miles away and it doesn't really resemble Venice much other than the course of the Lauch River (that feeds into the Ill). It is the picture postcard district of Colmar with restored timber homes and flowers and yes, lots of tourists all seeking that perfect selfie or Insta photo. Once you've seen it, you've seen it.

From the marker, "The bridge over the Lauch marks the start of the Krutenau, a community united around the memory of Martin Stockmeyer: this boatman, nicknamed the 'Hercules of Colmar', was in February 1791 responsible for the victory of the Revolution in the face of an uprising of the aristocratic party. The road owes its current name to the marshal Turenne, who used it in 1674 for his solemn entry at the head of 800 cavalrymen. The picturesque line of old houses, which are accessible by small boat, is the reason for the name 'Little Venise'."

I think the restaurants are a little more expensive in this neighborhood but you'll find that they all have menus in French and English and German and probably Spanish and others. It's all about the visitors in this part of Colmar.

Don't miss the "Ski Tree." I'm not sure if that's a...

Once you're there - you WILL want to stay overnight. Piece of advice- book a hotel in advance, especially if you're going on the weekend! I recommend the hotel romantic, right by the canal (see picture, although canal is not showing). The old downtown is breath taking with picture perfect ancient buildings, colorful flower decorations and smiles wherever you go. Sit outside at any coffee or restaurant and watch people from all over the world while having that perfect croissant or a french gourmet meal.. if your favorite holiday is Christmas- they have a 365 day Christmas decoration shop, that is just exquisite! Park by the towns market hall (marchè, it's a one way street on the side of the building), where you can buy any kind of cheese, salami, honey and other gourmet items. The parking ticket you can buy at the end of the street, by inserting your card and choosing your time of duration. Choose 2 hours at least, because there is...