Statue du Petit Vigneron, Colmar

Attraction, Sculpture and Statue in Colmar

Statue du Petit Vigneron
Statue du Petit Vigneron
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jeffrey Bary

The Statue du Petit Vigneron is a small but characterful sculpture in Colmar's Old Town, celebrating Alsace's wine-growing heritage through the figure of a young vintner. You'll find it set into a niche at the corner of Rue des Vignerons and Rue des Écoles, right by the Marché Couvert (Covered Market), which makes it an easy add-on while you're already exploring central Colmar.

It's best experienced as a quick, satisfying pause on a self-guided walking loop between the Covered Market, Petite Venise, and the surrounding lanes of half-timbered houses. If you're doing a guided walking tour, this is exactly the kind of detail a good guide will point out—small, local, and full of story.

History and Significance of the Statue du Petit Vigneron

The Petit Vigneron (Little Vintner) is associated with Auguste Bartholdi, the Colmar-born sculptor best known internationally for the Statue of Liberty. Created in the 19th century, the work fits neatly into Colmar's tradition of public art that blends civic pride with everyday regional life.

Beyond the name, what makes the statue meaningful is its subject: not a king or general, but a working figure tied to the vineyards that shape Alsatian identity. It’s a small monument, but it quietly anchors the neighborhood’s sense of place—especially fitting beside the Covered Market, where local food culture is still on display.

Today, the statue functions less as a “must-see attraction” and more as a cultural detail that rewards slow travel. If you like connecting dots between architecture, local trades, and the personalities behind a city’s landmarks, it’s a satisfying stop.

Things to See and Do in the Statue du Petit Vigneron

Start by taking a moment to actually study the sculpture rather than treating it as a quick snapshot. Look at the vintner’s posture and the way the statue is framed by its niche—this placement makes it feel like a hidden find, even though it’s right in the middle of town.

Pair your visit with the Marché Couvert next door: it's one of the best ways to connect the statue's theme (regional produce and wine culture) with present-day Colmar. From here, it's also an easy walk to Petite Venise for canal-side photos and a relaxed wander through the most postcard-famous streets.

If you’re building a Bartholdi-themed mini-itinerary, use this as a “street-level” counterpart to the Musée Bartholdi courtyard and other Bartholdi works around town. It’s a simple way to add context to what you’re seeing without turning the day into a museum marathon.

How to Get to the Statue du Petit Vigneron

The nearest major airports are EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP) and Strasbourg Airport (SXB), with Zurich Airport (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 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 traveling by car, aim for public parking on the edge of the historic center and walk in, since the Old Town streets can be tight and traffic rules may be restrictive for visitors. 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 du Petit Vigneron

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning for quiet streets and cleaner photos, or early evening when the Old Town feels atmospheric after day-trippers thin out.
  • How long to spend: Plan 5–10 minutes for the statue itself, then bundle it with the Covered Market and Petite Venise nearby.
  • Accessibility: The statue is viewed from the street and is generally easy to reach on foot; expect typical Old Town paving that can be uneven.
  • Facilities: There are no facilities at the statue, but you’ll find restrooms, food stalls, and cafés close by around the Covered Market area.

Where to Stay Close to the Statue du Petit Vigneron

Base yourself in Colmar’s Old Town for the most convenient, walk-everywhere stay—especially if you want early and late photo moments without commuting.

Hôtel Le Colombier A strong pick for this specific sight because it’s right by the Covered Market area, making it easy to pop out for short walks and return to drop bags or warm up between stops.

Hôtel Saint-Martin A classic Old Town option with a central address that’s ideal for a walking-tour style visit, putting you close to the main lanes, restaurants, and the most scenic corners.

James Boutique Hôtel Colmar A modern, comfortable base that works well if you want contemporary rooms while still being within easy walking distance of the historic center.

Hôtel Turenne A practical choice for travelers who want a straightforward stay with good access into the center on foot, often appealing for short breaks and road-trip itineraries.

La Maison des Têtes A memorable, character-filled stay in one of Colmar’s most famous buildings—great if you want your hotel to feel like part of the sightseeing.

Is the Statue du Petit Vigneron Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you're already exploring central Colmar, it's absolutely worth a brief stop. It's free, easy to find, and adds a layer of local identity (wine culture and Bartholdi's presence in the city) to what can otherwise become a blur of pretty streets.

Honest Pivot: if you’re on a tight schedule and only want “big-ticket” sights, you can skip making a special trip just for this statue. It shines most when folded into a Covered Market + Petite Venise walking loop, not as a standalone destination.

What Other Travellers Say...

4.7 (21)
Guillaume Bourcy
7 months ago
"Interesting piece, this is a young Alsatian winemaker, sitting on a stump with crossed legs and bare feet, holding a small barrel in his hands andquenching his thirst. To his left is a small dog, the winemaker's faithful companion. In 1867, after the completion of the Covered Market, the municipality decided to brighten up the building with a work of art. Auguste Bartholdi's "The Little Winemaker," presented in 1869 at the Salon des Artistes Français in Paris, met with great success. The government at the time acquired the piece and gifted it to the city of Colmar to decorate the fountain at the Covered Market Halls. "The Little Winemaker" was inaugurated on August 15, 1869. In 1986, it was moved to the Bartholdi Museum. Since then, a replica has taken its place at the Covered Market. A second version of "The Little Winemaker," which was exhibited in Philadelphia in 1876 during the Cente ial Exposition, has been preserved since 1891 at the Institute of Technology in Philadelphia...."
Sorin Vasile
a year ago
"A very nice statue by Auguste Bartholdi, made in the style of Me eken Pis from Brussels, but here is symbolizing a little boy that is a youngwinemaker. It's right on the corner of the building of Marché Couvert Colmar. It is a lovely place that must be seen, among many other delightful places in Colmar...."
Troy Casper
7 months ago
"Very friendly staff. Let us get a seat without reservation. But get reservation if pla ing to go."

For Different Travelers

The Statue du Petit Vigneron is a small sight, but it fits neatly into many Colmar itineraries because it's central and pairs well with nearby highlights. Think of it as a detail that enhances a walk rather than an attraction that dictates your day.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the idea of a “little” character statue and the quick, low-effort nature of the stop—no lines, no long explanations required. It can be a fun mini “spot the statue” challenge while you’re heading toward the market or the canals.

To keep it engaging, connect it to something immediate: a snack stop at the Covered Market or a short stroll to Petite Venise afterward. That one-two combo makes the stop feel purposeful rather than random.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, this is a gentle, unhurried moment in the middle of Colmar's most romantic neighborhood. It's especially nice as part of a slow wander where you're collecting small details—statues, niches, façades, and reflections on the water.

Use it as a waypoint between photo spots rather than a destination. The nearby lanes and canal-side views do the heavy lifting; the statue adds a charming “only in Colmar” touch.

Budget Travelers

Budget-wise, it’s perfect: free to see, outdoors, and located in an area you’ll likely visit anyway. It’s also a good reminder that some of the best travel moments are small and un-ticketed.

If you're watching spending, pair the stop with a picnic-style browse at the Covered Market (or a simple bakery snack) and then walk the canals. You'll get a full, satisfying slice of Colmar without paying for an attraction.

FAQs for Visiting Statue du Petit Vigneron

Getting There

It’s in Colmar’s historic center, right by the Covered Market. You can easily reach it on foot from most central hotels.
Head to the Marché Couvert (Covered Market) and look at the corner where Rue des Vignerons meets Rue des Écoles. The statue is set into the building corner niche.
Yes, it’s a short walk from Petite Venise and works well as part of the same stroll. The route is flat and straightforward through the central lanes.

Tickets & Entry

No—this is an outdoor public artwork you view from the street. There’s nothing to book.
No, you can see the statue without entering any building. If you want deeper Bartholdi context, you can separately choose to visit museums in town.
Many Old Town walking tours pass through this area and may point it out. If you’re doing a self-guided walk, it’s still easy to include.

Visiting Experience

It’s a quick stop—most people spend a few minutes taking a closer look and photos. It’s best paired with nearby sights.
It can be, because it’s set into a niche rather than standing in an open square. Using the Covered Market as your anchor makes it much easier to spot.
Notice the statue’s placement and how it frames the figure like a small street-side tableau. It’s a nice example of Colmar’s “details reward attention” vibe.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Use it as a waypoint: Covered Market, then Petite Venise, then loop back through the Old Town streets. It adds a cultural note without slowing you down.
Yes, it’s part of the broader set of Bartholdi-linked sights around the city. If you’re interested, you can build a small themed walk.
Yes, as long as you’re already near the center. It’s a low-effort stop that complements the main walking route.

Photography

Morning and early evening tend to be calmer, with fewer people passing through. Softer light also helps with detail shots.
Step back enough to include the corner niche and a bit of the surrounding streetscape. That context makes the photo feel more “Colmar” than a tight crop.
Yes, but be mindful—this is a working pedestrian area near the market. A quick step to the side usually keeps things smooth.

Accessibility & Facilities

You can view it from the street, but the surrounding Old Town surfaces may be uneven. Approaching slowly and choosing smoother paving lines helps.
Not at the statue itself, but the Covered Market area and nearby cafés are your best bet. Plan a quick break around your market visit.
There isn’t dedicated seating at the statue, but you’ll find spots to pause near the canals and around the market vicinity. It’s easy to combine with a short rest.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes—this is one of the most natural pairings in Colmar. See the statue, then browse the market for snacks or lunch.
Yes, the Old Town around the market has plenty of cafés and bakeries. You’ll have options within minutes.
Absolutely—Alsace is wine country, and this statue is a fun thematic touchpoint. Use it as a photo stop between tastings or meals.

Safety & Timing

Central Colmar is generally lively in the evening, especially around popular areas. Use normal city awareness and keep valuables secure in crowds.
The immediate area can get busy at peak daytime hours because it’s near major walking routes. Early morning is the calmest.
The statue itself doesn’t close, but nearby businesses and the market keep their own schedules. If the market matters to your plan, check its hours separately.

Nearby Attractions to the Statue du Petit Vigneron

  • Marché Couvert de Colmar: The city's Covered Market is steps away and is ideal for browsing local produce and quick bites.
  • Petite Venise: Colmar’s most famous canal-side area, perfect for scenic walks and classic photos.
  • Koïfhus (Ancienne Douane): A historic Old Town landmark that adds architectural context to your walking loop.
  • Musée Bartholdi: A great stop if you want deeper insight into Bartholdi and his works connected to Colmar.
  • Maison Pfister: One of Colmar's most photographed historic houses, easy to include on the same central stroll.

The Statue du Petit Vigneron 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: 13 Rue des Écoles, 68000 Colmar, France
Colmar: 1 km

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