VoxVlog

The north-eastern city in Frace was founded way back in the 9th century by a monk named Notker Balbulus. Today, it's known as one of the best-preserved historical towns in all of eastern Europe and has a population of over 67,000 people.

In fact, the popular Old Town area feels almost eerily accurate, like you walked through a time machine upon entering (you know, minus all the tourists with their smart phones).

The Launch River runs through the center of town, resulting in romantic canals, bridges, and waterside dining. Visitors can even explore the town by water in guided boat tours.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

And as visitors float down the river, they can take in the authentic timber-framed buildings, which — as a result of the town being so close to the German border — feature both French and German architectural influences.

Rumor has it, soldiers during World War II didn't bomb the town, because they thought it was too beautiful to destory — and if nothing else, these blue shutters and over-flowing flower baskets prove their point.

Remember the famous fountain that Belle twirled around with her books and a gaggle of sheep? There's an almost identical one in Colmar. Apparently, the statute in the middle of this fountain was created by Frédéric Bartholdi — the same man who designed the Statue of Liberty.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Of course the square wouldn't be complete without a quaint bakery — but, sadly, there's not a red-bearded man handing out loaves of bread in sight.

And yes, the town is just as romantic (if not more so) at night when lit by lanterns too. Sigh.

Watch Next

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7pLvUp6ursZyew6q6xmeaqKVfobansY6tqZqulaF8qH6YcG5om5%2BhuqK%2BjJ%2BpmqaTmnq1vsCvnKVlmZmyons%3D