Manneken-Pis de Colmar

Attraction, Fountain and Sculpture in Colmar

Manneken-Pis de Colmar
Manneken-Pis de Colmar
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Anne Jea.

Tucked into Colmar's historic center, the Manneken-Pis de Colmar is a small wall-mounted fountain statue inspired by the famous Manneken Pis in Brussels. You'll find it on Rue des Augustins, set against the courthouse façade, making it an easy “blink-and-you-miss-it” stop that's perfect for a quick detour.

It works best as a fun waypoint on a self-guided walking tour through Old Town: pair it with nearby canals, colorful half-timbered streets, and the livelier squares where you can linger afterward. For the best look, approach slowly along Rue des Augustins so you spot the statue's niche and fountain details before the street pulls you onward.

History and Significance of the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

The Colmar Manneken-Pis dates to 1922 and is closely tied to the post–World War I era, when European cities were rebuilding and reaffirming friendships. Colmar's version is more than a playful copy: it's a symbolic gift that nods to shared hardship and solidarity.

It’s also notable because it’s often described as the first official replica of the Brussels original, which gives this tiny fountain a surprisingly “big” place in the wider Manneken Pis story. Over the decades, it has become one of those local curiosities that rewards travelers who enjoy collecting small, characterful landmarks rather than only headline attractions.

Today, its significance is mostly cultural and atmospheric: it adds a wink of humor to a city already known for storybook streetscapes. It's the kind of detail that makes Colmar feel lived-in and layered, not just picturesque.

Things to See and Do in the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

Start by simply finding it: the fun is in the hunt, and the statue’s scale makes it feel like a discovery. Once you’ve spotted it, take a moment to look at how it’s integrated into the wall and fountain setting—this isn’t a freestanding monument, but a small piece of public art embedded in everyday city fabric.

Photography is the main “activity” here, and it’s worth trying a few angles: a tight shot that frames the statue and spout, and a wider shot that shows the courthouse wall and street context. If you’re visiting with kids (or anyone who likes quirky travel moments), it’s also a great stop for a quick “spot-the-statue” challenge.

To turn this into a richer mini-visit, connect it with a short loop through nearby Old Town streets and squares, then continue toward Colmar’s canals and postcard viewpoints. It’s best enjoyed as a quick highlight within a broader walk, not as a standalone destination.

How to Get to the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

The nearest major airports are EuroAirport Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP) and Strasbourg Airport (SXB), with additional options via Zurich (ZRH) if you're building a wider Alsace itinerary. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Colmar on Booking.com.

Colmar is well connected by rail, and arriving by train is one of the easiest ways to start an Old Town walking day without worrying about parking. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If you’re driving, aim for one of the public car parks around the center and then finish on foot, since the Old Town streets are best explored as a pedestrian. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning for the clearest photos and the calmest streets, or late afternoon when the light is softer on the façades.
  • How long to spend: Plan 5–15 minutes for finding it, taking photos, and enjoying the surrounding street scene.
  • Accessibility: The statue is viewed from the street, so it’s generally easy to include on an accessible route, though nearby Old Town surfaces can be uneven.
  • Facilities: There are no dedicated facilities at the statue itself, but cafés and restrooms are available in the surrounding central area.

Where to Stay Close to the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

Base yourself in Colmar’s central Old Town for the easiest, most atmospheric access to the Manneken-Pis and the city’s best evening strolls.

Hôtel Le Maréchal A classic choice near the canals with a romantic, storybook setting—ideal if you want your stay to feel like part of the Old Town scenery.

Hôtel Saint-Martin Right in the heart of the historic center, making it easy to pop out early for photos and return between sightseeing stops.

James Boutique Hôtel A modern, design-forward option close to the center—great if you want contemporary comfort without sacrificing walkability.

Hôtel Turenne A practical, traveler-friendly base with straightforward access to the Old Town—handy if you’re mixing day trips with city wandering.

Hôtel Quatorze A stylish boutique stay very close to the Manneken-Pis street, perfect for travelers who prioritize location and a more intimate hotel feel.

Is the Manneken-Pis de Colmar Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you enjoy small, quirky landmarks and the satisfaction of spotting something most people walk past. It's a quick, charming detail that adds personality to a Colmar walking tour, and it pairs naturally with the surrounding Old Town highlights.

Honest Pivot: If you prefer big-ticket attractions with lots to “do” on-site, you can skip it without missing a major experience—this is a short photo stop, not a destination you plan a day around. It’s best for travelers who like collecting offbeat city details.

What Other Travellers Say...

4.1 (111)
Frank Versteegen
2 years ago
"If you have never seen it, then it might be worth a visit. But in essence this statue is the same deception as the original: a 30cm statue of a boypeeing. In this case he isn’t even peeing as apparently they couldn’t find a water source to co ect it to...."
Robin Irwin
3 years ago
"This one has trouble peeing! Read why he doesn't pee! This "Ma eken Pis" was gifted to Colmar by Brussels for the a iversary of the Liberation ofColmar. The statue is made in 1922 The reason why it ca ot pee is that it isn't co ected to a water source. Quite strange because it stood against the public bath building with plenty of water...."
Travel Time
3 years ago
"A small imitation statue of Ma eken pis. It is hyden in a small street."

For Different Travelers

Colmar is excellent at delivering small delights between major sights, and the Manneken-Pis is exactly that: a brief, memorable pause that fits neatly into many itineraries. Think of it as a fun punctuation mark on your Old Town walk.

Families with Kids

Kids often love the “find it!” aspect, since the statue is small and feels like a secret hidden in plain sight. It’s also an easy way to break up a longer walk through the center without needing a big time commitment.

Pair it with a simple scavenger-hunt approach: spot the statue, then look for other playful details like colorful signs, fountains, and canal viewpoints nearby. Keep expectations light and treat it as a quick win.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, this stop works as a cute, low-effort moment on the way to more romantic scenery like the canals and evening-lit streets. It's especially nice if you like travel photos that capture “we were here” details beyond the obvious landmarks.

Use it as a reason to wander slowly: take the photo, then choose a nearby café or wine bar and let the rest of the afternoon unfold on foot. It’s a small stop that supports a relaxed, romantic pace.

Budget Travelers

This is a perfect budget-friendly sight: it’s outdoors, quick, and free to enjoy. It also sits in an area where simply walking and people-watching is a major part of the experience.

Build a low-cost itinerary by linking it with other free Old Town highlights, then save your spending for one standout meal or a local tasting. The Manneken-Pis is a reminder that some of the best travel moments cost nothing.

FAQs for Visiting Manneken-Pis de Colmar

Getting There

Yes, it’s in the historic center and fits easily into an Old Town walking loop. If you’re already exploring central Colmar, it’s usually just a short detour.
Yes, many travelers walk from the station into the center, then continue through Old Town streets to reach Rue des Augustins. Allow extra time if you like stopping for photos along the way.
It can be easy to miss because it’s small, but it’s straightforward once you’re on the right street. Walk slowly and scan the courthouse wall as you approach.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public street-side fountain statue and can be viewed freely. There’s no entry gate or ticket counter.
No, viewing is from the street. Any costs you incur would be optional, like a guided tour or nearby café stop.
Some walking tours and self-guided routes through Old Town may point it out. If you like context and stories, a guided walk can make small sights more meaningful.

Visiting Experience

Only a little—think of it as a bonus stop rather than a main event. It’s most rewarding when it’s already on your walking route.
Notice how the statue is set into the wall and how the fountain element is integrated. The contrast between the serious courthouse façade and the playful figure is part of the charm.
Usually it’s a quick stop with people coming and going. You may need to wait briefly for a clear photo during peak daytime hours.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Use it as a short waypoint while looping through Old Town streets and heading toward the canals afterward. It works best between bigger stops rather than as a standalone.
A guide can add historical context and point out other small details nearby. If you prefer independent wandering, it still works perfectly as a quick find-and-photo stop.
Start with central Old Town, weave through the prettiest streets, stop at the Manneken-Pis, then continue toward canal viewpoints and a café break. Keep the route flexible so you can follow the most photogenic lanes.

Photography

Try one close-up that fills the frame with the statue and fountain, then a wider shot that shows the street context. A slightly lower angle can help the figure stand out.
Morning and late afternoon often give softer light and fewer harsh shadows on façades. Midday can be bright, but it’s still workable for quick snaps.
Wait a minute or two and shoot in short bursts as foot traffic clears. Early morning is the simplest way to get a clean frame.

Accessibility & Facilities

You can view it from the street, but surfaces in Old Town can be uneven and sometimes narrow. Choose smoother routes and allow extra time.
Not specifically at the statue. Rest options are better in nearby squares and café terraces.
Not at the statue itself, but central Colmar has cafés and public facilities within a short walk. Plan to use a café stop if you need reliable access.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’re in the heart of Colmar, so cafés and bakeries are easy to find within a few minutes’ walk. It’s a natural place to add a coffee break to your route.
Yes, it’s quick and central, so it fits nicely into an evening wander before choosing a restaurant. Pair it with a slow walk through the prettiest nearby streets.
Yes, it works well as a small waypoint between food-focused stops in the center. Keep it flexible and let your appetite guide the rest of the walk.

Safety & Timing

Central Colmar is generally calm, and this is a street-side sight, but use normal city awareness. Stick to well-lit routes and keep valuables secure.
No, it’s typically a very short stop. The main time investment is whatever you choose to add around it—photos, wandering, and nearby breaks.
You can still see it quickly with an umbrella, but photos may be trickier. Consider pairing it with nearby indoor stops and returning when the weather clears.

Nearby Attractions to the Manneken-Pis de Colmar

  • La Petite Venise: Colmar’s most famous canal area, ideal for scenic strolls and classic photos.
  • Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane): A historic building that anchors the Old Town atmosphere and nearby squares.
  • Maison Pfister: One of Colmar's most photographed houses, known for its ornate Renaissance-era façade.
  • Collégiale Saint-Martin: A major Gothic church in the center, worth a quick look for architecture and calm.
  • Unterlinden Museum: Colmar’s standout museum, excellent for art lovers and a deeper cultural stop.

The Manneken-Pis de Colmar appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Colmar!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Rue des Augustins, 68000 Colmar, France
Colmar: 1 km

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