Many travelers recommend flying into Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport (BSL) in Switzerland and then renting a car to drive to Colmar. This often provides more flight options and can be cost-effective for exploring the Alsace region. +1

Renting a car is a popular choice, taking about an hour's drive. Alternatively, you can take a train from Basel SBB station to Colmar, which usually involves a change in Mulhouse.

Yes, Colmar has a train station with connections to major French cities like Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon, as well as to nearby German and Swiss cities.

Absolutely! Colmar's historic center is very walkable, and public transportation within the town is efficient. For day trips to surrounding villages, consider local buses or organized tours.

Parking can be challenging in the very center due to its pedestrianized nature. There are several paid parking garages and lots on the outskirts of the old town that are convenient for visitors.

Maison des Têtes is a building with a facade that is visible from the street. You do not need tickets to view the exterior. If you are staying at the hotel or dining at its restaurant, you will have access to its interior spaces.

As it's primarily a hotel and restaurant, its public-facing areas like the brasserie or restaurant will have their own operating hours. The exterior is always accessible.

While viewing the exterior of Maison des Têtes is free, many museums and attractions in Colmar, such as the Musée Unterlinden, do have entrance fees. It's best to check individual attraction websites for current pricing.

The Colmar Christmas markets typically open in late November and run until late December. Dates can vary slightly each year, so it's advisable to check the official Colmar tourism website for the most up-to-date information. +1

Yes, especially during peak seasons like Christmas, booking guided tours of Colmar or the surrounding Alsace villages in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Beyond Maison des Têtes, don't miss Little Venice for canal shots, Rue des Marchands for its charming architecture, and the Place des Dominicains, especially during Christmas markets.

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for the facade. During Christmas, the evening when the lights are on is particularly magical.

If you are a guest or dining at the hotel/restaurant, you can generally take photos, but it's always polite to be discreet and respectful of other guests' privacy.

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, some private establishments or specific exhibits within museums might have restrictions. Always be mindful of signage.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the charming streets and buildings. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on facades. A tripod is helpful for low-light shots, especially during Christmas markets.

Maison des Têtes itself has a highly-rated brasserie and restaurant. The surrounding old town is filled with traditional Alsatian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes.

Don't miss Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche), Choucroute Garnie (sauerkraut with various meats), Baeckeoffe (a meat and potato stew), and local Alsatian wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

Reviews suggest the hotel breakfast is delicious with a wide range of options, and the adjoining patisserie is also highly recommended. [^Review]

While Alsatian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian dishes. Look for options like Kasespaetzle (cheese noodles) or vegetable tarts. The Marché Couvert might also have diverse stalls.

The Marché Couvert is a covered market in Colmar offering a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared foods. It's a great place to sample regional specialties and grab a casual lunch.