Statue de la Liberte, Colmar

Attraction, Monument and Statue in Colmar

Statue de la Liberte
Statue de la Liberte
CC BY-SA 4.0 / eric spenle

The Statue de la Liberte in Colmar is a striking replica of the Statue of Liberty set on a roundabout at the city's northern entrance. It's an unexpected landmark on the outskirts, and a fun “wait, what?” moment that connects this storybook Alsace town to one of the world's most famous monuments.

Most visitors see it as a quick photo stop on the way into or out of town, but it can also fit neatly into a Bartholdi-themed walking tour: start in Colmar's historic center, visit the Bartholdi Museum, then head out to the roundabout to see the larger-than-life tribute in person.

History and Significance of the Statue de la Liberte

Colmar is the hometown of Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the sculptor behind the original Statue of Liberty in New York. In 2004, the city installed this replica to commemorate the centenary of Bartholdi's death and to celebrate the local roots of a global symbol.

The Colmar statue stands about 12 meters tall (to the torch) and was designed to echo the look of patinated copper. Its placement at a busy gateway into the city is intentional: like the New York original welcoming arrivals by sea, Colmar's version greets visitors arriving by road.

Beyond the photo appeal, the monument works best as a “context piece” for understanding Colmar’s pride in Bartholdi. Pairing it with the Bartholdi Museum in the old town turns a quirky stop into a mini story about art, identity, and the city’s international connections.

Things to See and Do in the Statue de la Liberte

The main attraction is the statue itself: walk around to view it from multiple angles and notice how the proportions and pose mirror the iconic original. Because it sits in the middle of a roundabout, your experience is mostly about vantage points, timing, and getting a safe, clear shot.

For a more satisfying visit, treat it as the final stop of a Bartholdi route. Start with the museum in the historic center, then come here to see how Colmar commemorates its most famous artist on a grand, public scale.

If you're traveling with a car, this is also a convenient “arrival marker” for Colmar: stop briefly, take photos, then continue into the old town for canals, half-timbered streets, and the classic Alsace scenery.

How to Get to the Statue de la Liberte

The nearest major airports are EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP) and Strasbourg Airport (SXB), with Zurich (ZRH) also workable for some itineraries. 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 reach the city before continuing by local bus, taxi, or a short rideshare to the statue. 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.

By car, the statue is straightforward to reach because it sits on a prominent roundabout at the north entrance to Colmar, making it an easy stop when driving in or out of town. 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 Statue de la Liberte

  • Official website: https://www.colmar.fr/statue-liberte-colmar
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning for softer light and fewer cars, or near sunset for warmer tones on the statue. Avoid peak rush hours if you want calmer photos.
  • How long to spend: Plan 10–20 minutes for a quick stop and photos; add time if you’re combining it with a Bartholdi-themed day.
  • Accessibility: The area is generally flat, but the roundabout setting can make the final approach feel awkward; consider a taxi drop-off if mobility is limited.
  • Facilities: There are no dedicated visitor facilities at the monument itself; use amenities in central Colmar or nearby shops before/after your stop.

Where to Stay Close to the Statue de la Liberte

Base yourself in central Colmar’s old town for the most walkable, atmospheric stay and the easiest access to restaurants and sights.

Hôtel Le Maréchal A classic, postcard-perfect option in Little Venice, ideal if you want charm and scenery right outside your door.

James Boutique Hôtel A stylish, modern pick close to the center, great for travelers who want comfort, design, and an easy walk to major sights.

Hôtel Saint-Martin Right in the heart of the old town, perfect for first-timers who want to step out into Colmar’s most beautiful streets.

Novotel Suites Colmar Centre A practical, family-friendly choice with extra space, well placed for both the historic center and quick road access.

ibis Styles Colmar Centre Good value with a reliable, no-fuss setup—handy if you’re balancing day trips around Alsace with time in town.

Is the Statue de la Liberte Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you enjoy quirky landmarks, quick photo stops, or you're following Bartholdi's story in Colmar, it's a memorable add-on. It's not a “spend hours here” attraction, but it's a fun, surprising monument that makes the city's connection to the Statue of Liberty feel tangible.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time, don’t go out of your way just for this stop—especially on foot—because the roundabout location and outskirts setting can feel inconvenient. In that case, prioritize Colmar’s old town and the Bartholdi Museum, then only visit the statue if you have a car or an easy ride.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (4,157)

With a strong 4.4/5 average from thousands of reviews, visitors generally find Colmar's Statue de la Liberte a fun, memorable surprise and a worthwhile quick stop. Common highlights include the novelty of seeing a Liberty replica in France, the impressive size and craftsmanship, and the ability to get fairly close for photos. The main drawbacks mentioned are the awkward approach on foot and the busy roundabout setting, which can make the final stretch feel less comfortable than attractions in the historic center.

Richard Lewis
a month ago
"This is literally a replica statue of liberty 🗽 in the middle of a roundabout on the outskirts of Colmar. We took a bus out of town to visit thismonument and were not disappointed! Having already visited the museum in town we were keen to make the journey to visit if we had time. The bus ride was only about 15 minutes, we enjoyed ourselves for about 30 minutes then road the next bus back into town. If your looking to get some fun photos and see something totally unexpected then id 100% recommend the bus ride. Getting a ticket was easy enough and it wasn't too much effort to head out...."
Jeffrey Jay Gonzalez
2 months ago
"The fact that there's one this close to Germany is awesome. Didn't have to fly to NYC. STATUE looked great, this city has rich history. And thelocation isn't bad it's in a roundabout so you can get pretty close...."
Kaye Frelsi
6 months ago
"It is so beautiful sculpture, so huge and precisely made. I am so glad I have visited this place despite it was pretty hardly approachable bywalking. Way from Colmar is lead through industrial zone and in the end you must run over roundabout to reach this impressing statue of liberty...."

For Different Travelers

The Statue de la Liberte works best as a short, purposeful stop that complements a broader Colmar itinerary. Think of it as a quick “story point” rather than a standalone destination.

Families with Kids

Kids often love the surprise factor of spotting a Statue of Liberty in France, and it can be a fun “treasure hunt” moment on the way into town. Keep expectations simple: it’s mainly a look-and-photo stop rather than an activity.

If you’re driving, it’s easy to fit in without tiring little legs. Pair it with a more hands-on visit afterward—like a canal stroll or a sweet treat in the old town.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, it's a playful, offbeat photo stop that adds variety to a romantic Colmar weekend. The best experience is to treat it as a quick detour, then head back to the old town for atmospheric streets and riverside views.

Aim for golden hour if you want warmer light and a calmer feel. It’s a small moment, but it can be a memorable one in a longer Alsace itinerary.

Budget Travelers

This is an easy win for budget travelers because it's free and doesn't require tickets or timed entry. If you're using public transport, consider whether the extra transit time is worth it compared with spending more time exploring central Colmar on foot.

If you’re already passing by (especially by car or bus), it’s absolutely worth a quick stop. Combine it with other free highlights like scenic walks and viewpoints around the old town.

FAQs for Visiting Statue de la Liberte

Getting There

It’s possible, but it can feel inconvenient because the statue is on the outskirts and the final approach is around a busy roundabout. Many visitors prefer bus, taxi, or car for a smoother visit.
Visit the Bartholdi Museum and the old town first, then stop at the statue on your way out of town. This keeps the detour short and makes the monument feel more meaningful.
Yes, it works well as a brief roadside stop if you’re driving between Colmar and nearby villages. Just plan a safe place to park before approaching.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s an outdoor public monument and can be viewed freely. There’s no ticketing or entry gate.
No, there are no timed entry slots for the monument itself. If you want guided context, look for a Bartholdi- or Colmar-themed walking tour in the city center.
No, there isn’t a dedicated viewing platform. Your “viewpoint” is simply the best safe angle you can find around the roundabout area.

Visiting Experience

Expect a large replica statue in the middle of a traffic circle, with the visit focused on photos and quick appreciation. It’s a short stop rather than a full attraction complex.
It’s usually not “crowded” like a museum, but traffic can be busy at certain times. Visiting outside rush hours makes the stop feel calmer.
Yes if you enjoy comparisons and the Bartholdi connection—this one is about Colmar’s story, not replacing the New York experience. If you’re indifferent to the theme, you can skip it without missing Colmar’s main charms.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Start in the old town with the Bartholdi Museum, then come here as a “finale” to the story. It turns a quirky stop into a coherent mini-itinerary.
You can include it in a self-guided day, but most classic walking tours focus on the historic center. Consider using public transport or a short ride to add this stop.
Pair it with the old town canals, the Unterlinden area, and a museum visit for a balanced day. This monument is best as a quick add-on between bigger highlights.

Photography

The best angles are from spots where you can safely frame the statue with minimal traffic distractions. Try a few positions to capture the torch and crown clearly.
Early morning and late afternoon usually give softer light and fewer harsh shadows. These times can also reduce the stress of heavy traffic.
You can get relatively close compared with many monuments, but the roundabout setting limits how freely you can move. Prioritize safety and be patient for a clear shot.

Accessibility & Facilities

No dedicated restrooms are typically available at the statue itself. Plan to use facilities in central Colmar before heading out.
The terrain is generally flat, but the roundabout environment can be the main challenge. A drop-off by taxi or car can make it much easier.
There’s no guaranteed seating or shaded visitor area designed for lingering. Treat it as a short stop and relax back in the old town afterward.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Not reliably—this is more of a roadside monument than a café zone. For a pleasant break, head back toward central Colmar.
Pick something up in the old town before you go, then keep the statue stop brief. This works especially well if you’re traveling with kids.
Yes—use it as a quick pre- or post-meal detour, then dine in the historic center where the best atmosphere and choice are.

Safety & Timing

Use caution: it’s in a traffic roundabout area, so be mindful of cars and crossings. If it feels uncomfortable, enjoy it from a safe viewpoint instead of forcing a close approach.
Rush hours can make the area feel hectic and less photo-friendly. Mid-morning or mid-afternoon often feels smoother.
Only if you’re already passing by—wind and rain can make the stop unpleasant because it’s fully outdoors. In poor weather, prioritize indoor sights like museums.

Nearby Attractions to the Statue de la Liberte

  • Bartholdi Museum: A compact, engaging museum in the sculptor’s former home that adds context to Colmar’s Liberty connection.
  • Little Venice (La Petite Venise): Colmar’s most photogenic canal area, perfect for an easy stroll and classic Alsace views.
  • Unterlinden Museum: The city’s flagship museum, known for major art collections and a strong sense of place.
  • Old Town (Vieux Colmar): Half-timbered streets, colorful facades, and lively squares that define the “fairytale” Colmar feel.
  • Champ de Mars area: A convenient green space and transition zone between the station side and the historic center, useful for a relaxed walk.

The Statue de la Liberte 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: 45 Rte de Strasbourg, 68000 Colmar, France
Colmar: 3 km
Telephone: +33 3 89 20 68 92
Official Website

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