Flat-bottomed boats glide along the Lauch through Petite Venise, passing under low bridges and past the half-timbered houses that give the district its name. The ride lasts about twenty-five minutes and is one of the most relaxed ways to see Colmar. This tour combines the water view with a two-hour guided walk through the old town, so you hear the history behind the façades before you board. The cruise carries commentary in several languages, and the boatmen point out details you might otherwise miss, such as old fishmongers' houses and the shapes of the bridges. The tourist office says boat trips leave from the bottom of the Pont Saint-Pierre, near Rue de la Herse, and that the operator runs year-round with a reduced timetable in the winter months, including November and December. That means a Christmas-season ride is realistic, though you should check the schedule for your date. The tour suits families, couples and slower walkers, since the boat gives a rest from the cobbles.
Which format to choose
If you only want the boat, you can turn up at the departure point and buy a ticket on the day, which the tourist office lists at around nine euros for adults and less for children. The guided walk and boat tour costs more but includes about two hours with a guide, which helps if you want the stories behind the old town. Reviews of the walking-and-cruise tour are more mixed than for our other tours, so read recent comments and check the guide's language before booking.
Seasons and timetables
The boat operator runs a longer timetable in spring and summer, with departures every fifteen minutes or so, and reduced hours in the winter months. In December, local choirs sing Christmas songs on the boats on selected dates, which adds a seasonal touch. Boats may not run in heavy rain, frost or high water, so build in flexibility. The ride is short and the seats are low, so it suits most ages but is not ideal for guests with limited mobility.
Making the most of it
Ride in the morning if you want the canals quiet, or in late afternoon for warmer light. Sit on the side that faces the main row of houses for the best photographs, and keep your camera strap on. After the ride, walk back along the quay, and consider lunch away from the water.
The same area has the Christmas children's market in season, so a ride can be combined with a visit to the markets. For a fuller day, add the Unterlinden Museum or a walk through the Krutenau district behind the canals.
What to expect
The experience
A guided old-town walk followed by a flat-bottomed boat cruise of about twenty-five minutes on the Lauch through Petite Venise.
Best time
Morning for calm water, late afternoon for warm light; winter timetables are reduced.
How long
About two and a half hours in total.
Tips
Check the boat timetable for your date, dress for the weather, and sit on the side with the main row of houses.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-timers who like a guide and a gentle way to see the canals.
- Families
- Children love the boats, and the ride gives short legs a rest.
- Couples
- An easy, romantic half-day with the canals at their best.
- Pair with
- The Christmas children's market in season, Unterlinden Museum and a long lunch.
- Time needed
- Half a morning or afternoon.
Good questions
How long is the boat ride?+
The cruise on the Lauch lasts about twenty-five minutes. The tour adds a two-hour guided walk through the old town.
Do boats run in winter?+
The tourist office says the operator runs year-round with a reduced timetable in winter, including November and December. Check the schedule for your date.
Where do the boats leave from?+
They leave from the bottom of the Pont Saint-Pierre, near Rue de la Herse, in Petite Venise.
Is the commentary in English?+
The tour page describes multilingual commentary on the boat. Check the guide's language options when you book.
Can I just buy the boat ride?+
Yes, boat tickets are sold at the departure point for a modest price, and booking by phone is recommended in busy periods.
