R44 Raven II helicopter taking off from Colmar-Houssen Airport in France

Colmar Airport

Colmar Airport Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide for Colmar Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Colmar Airport as Your Gateway to Alsace

Colmar Airport (Aéroport de Colmar – Houssen, IATA: CMR) is a strategic regional airfield nestled in the heart of Alsace, northeastern France. Serving as both a living testament to the region’s complex history and a practical entry point for travelers, this airport seamlessly connects visitors to Colmar’s rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. With its proximity to Germany, Switzerland, and the renowned Alsace Wine Route, Colmar Airport is not just a transportation hub but also a springboard to the storybook streets, world-class museums, and picturesque landscapes of Colmar and its surroundings.

From its origins as a military base during turbulent periods of European history to its current focus on general aviation and aerial tourism, Colmar Airport epitomizes the region’s resilience and adaptability. This guide provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing options for sightseeing flights, accessibility, transportation, and key nearby attractions, ensuring a seamless and enriching travel experience. For travelers seeking to discover Alsace’s charm, Colmar Airport remains the ideal starting point (Nomads Travel Guide, Snippets of Paris, France Voyage).

Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter taking off at Colmar - Houssen Airport in France

Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter taking off from Colmar-Houssen Airport in France

R44 Raven II helicopter taking off at Colmar - Houssen Airport

Early Development and Strategic Location
Wartime Roles and Postwar Evolution
Colmar Airport Today: Operations, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility
Transportation and Getting to Colmar
Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips
The Unterlinden Museum: Colmar’s Must-See Landmark
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Planning Resources
Official Sources & Further Reading

1. Early Development and Strategic Location

Colmar Airport is located just north of Colmar’s historic city center, adjacent to the Alsace Wine Route and near critical transport arteries, including the A35 motorway. Established in the early 20th century, its flat terrain on the Upper Rhine Plain made it ideal for aviation. Its position close to the borders with Germany and Switzerland has long contributed to its strategic and economic importance (Nomads Travel Guide).

2. Wartime Roles and Postwar Evolution

Alsace’s history of shifting borders is reflected in Colmar Airport’s past. Used by German forces as a military airfield during World War II, the airport played a significant role until its liberation in 1945. After the war, it transitioned to civilian use, supporting the region’s recovery and development. The airport saw investments in infrastructure and briefly operated scheduled flights, including a notable Colmar-Paris line in the 1970s and 1980s (Snippets of Paris).

With the rise of larger airports nearby, Colmar Airport adapted by focusing on general aviation, private charters, flight training, and aerial tourism (France Voyage).

3. Colmar Airport Today: Operations, Visiting Hours, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

General Opening: Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (subject to variation for specific services/events).
Recommendation: Always check the official Colmar Airport website or contact customer service for the latest updates.

Ticketing

Commercial Flights: No regular commercial flights; the airport primarily serves private, charter, and sightseeing flights.
Sightseeing Flights: Book through local operators in advance for aerial tours of Alsace, Colmar, and the Vosges Mountains.
Special Events: The airport increases charter operations during major Colmar festivals and markets.

Accessibility

By Car: Just 4 km from Colmar city center via D83 and D415; ample on-site parking.
Public Transport: No direct shuttle, but regional bus lines and taxis link the airport to Colmar and nearby towns.
Mobility: Facilities and parking are adapted for travelers with reduced mobility—request assistance in advance.

Facilities

Small terminal with waiting areas, a café, car rental desks, and accessible restrooms.
Occasional community events, open days, and aviation exhibitions.

4. Transportation and Getting to Colmar

Closest Airports

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg: 72 km away; extensive European and some intercontinental flights.
Strasbourg Airport: 70 km north; French and European connections.
Zurich Airport: 160 km away; global connections.

Transfers to Colmar

From EuroAirport: Shuttle to Saint-Louis station, train or direct bus to Colmar (1–1.5 hours); taxis and car rentals available.
From Strasbourg Airport: Shuttle to Strasbourg station, then train to Colmar; driving takes around 50 minutes.
From Zurich Airport: Direct or via Basel by train (2–2.5 hours); driving about 2 hours.

Local Transportation Tips

Book tickets ahead during peak seasons.
English is widely spoken, but basic French or German is helpful.
Car rentals offer flexibility for exploring the Alsace Wine Route and nearby villages.

5. Nearby Attractions & Travel Tips

Colmar Airport’s location gives travelers direct access to the region’s iconic sites:

Colmar Old Town: Renowned for its half-timbered houses, canals, and vibrant squares.
Little Venice: Picturesque quarter ideal for boat tours and photography.
Statue of Liberty Replica: Near the airport, honoring Auguste Bartholdi (Snippets of Paris).
Bartholdi Museum: Dedicated to Colmar’s famed sculptor.
Alsace Wine Route: Discover vineyards and charming villages like Eguisheim and Riquewihr.
Unterlinden Museum: Home to the Isenheim Altarpiece and a must-see for art lovers.

Travel Tips

Consider booking sightseeing flights for panoramic views of Alsace.
Pre-book accommodations and tours during festival seasons (e.g., Christmas Markets, wine festivals).
Walking and cycling are ideal for exploring Colmar’s compact center.
For accessibility, plan routes on relatively flat streets and inquire ahead at attractions.

6. The Unterlinden Museum: Colmar’s Must-See Landmark

Overview

Housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent, the Unterlinden Museum (Musée Unterlinden) stands as one of France’s premier cultural institutions. Its collection of over 7,000 works spans medieval, Renaissance, and modern art, with the Isenheim Altarpiece as its centerpiece.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; closed Mondays and some holidays.
Tickets: Adults €13; reduced €10; free for children under 18; group and family rates available.
Guided Tours: Multilingual tours and audio guides enhance the experience.
Facilities: Café, gift shop, accessible restrooms, cloakroom for large bags.
Location: 3 Rue des Unterlinden, a short walk from the train station and city center.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; elevators and adapted restrooms.

Tips

Allow 2–3 hours for a full visit.
Purchase tickets online (Unterlinden Museum Official Website) to avoid queues.
Photography is allowed in designated areas (no flash).

Nearby Attractions

Saint-Martin Collegiate Church: Gothic masterpiece, open daily, free entry.
Bartholdi Museum: Explore the legacy of the Statue of Liberty’s creator.
Little Venice: Scenic canals and boat tours.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Colmar Airport’s visiting hours?
A: Generally 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, but check the official website for current details.

Q: Are commercial flights available?
A: No regular commercial flights; the airport serves private, charter, and sightseeing aviation.

Q: How do I get from Colmar Airport to the city center?
A: By car (10 minutes), taxi, or regional bus lines.

Q: Is the airport accessible for travelers with disabilities?
A: Yes, with accessible facilities and assistance upon request.

Q: Are guided tours available at the airport or nearby?
A: Not regularly, but group visits may be arranged in advance. Guided tours are available for Colmar’s main attractions, including the Unterlinden Museum and Old Town.

Q: Does the airport host special flights during events?
A: Yes, charter flights increase during major festivals like Christmas Markets and wine events.

Q: What are the top historical sites in Colmar?
A: Unterlinden Museum, Saint-Martin Church, Little Venice, and the Bartholdi Museum.

Q: How can I book tickets for Colmar’s museums?
A: Online or at the entrance—advance booking is advised for busy periods.

8. Conclusion and Planning Resources

Colmar Airport exemplifies the blend of historical legacy and modern convenience that characterizes Alsace. Whether you’re fascinated by aviation history, eager to tour Colmar’s enchanting old town, or planning to savor the region’s wines and festivals, the airport provides a welcoming and efficient gateway. For a seamless experience, check official sources for operational updates, pre-book sightseeing flights and museum tickets, and explore the region’s highlights with the help of interactive maps and local guides.

Download the Audiala app for personalized itineraries, real-time travel updates, and exclusive offers. Stay connected with Colmar’s tourism networks on social media and consult the resources below for ongoing inspiration and up-to-date information.

9. Official Sources & Further Reading

Visuals & Interactive Media

For best results, include high-quality images with SEO-optimized alt text (e.g., “Colmar Airport runway in Alsace,” “Statue of Liberty replica near Colmar Airport,” “Unterlinden Museum Colmar facade and entrance,” and “Colmar Little Venice scenic canal and half-timbered houses”). Interactive maps and virtual tours—available via official tourism sites—further enhance trip planning and accessibility.