Best Places to Visit in Alsace | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Alsace Travel Guide
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Welcome to Alsace, France! Nestled in the northeastern part of the country, Alsace is a region known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. With its unique blend of French and German influences, this region offers a truly distinctive experience for travelers. From the fairytale-like towns of Colmar and Strasbourg to the rolling vineyards of the Route des Vins, Alsace is a destination that will captivate your senses. Immerse yourself in the local traditions by exploring the half-timbered houses, indulging in the world-renowned Alsatian cuisine, and sipping on the region's famous white wines. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, Alsace has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey through this enchanting region of France.
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Best Places To Visit in Alsace
1. Strasbourg: Located in the heart of Alsace, Strasbourg is a captivating city that seamlessly blends French and German influences. Its picturesque old town, known as "Petite France," is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its charming half-timbered houses and canals. The iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, is a must-visit attraction. Additionally, Strasbourg is home to numerous European institutions, making it a vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
2. Colmar: Often referred to as the "Little Venice" of Alsace, Colmar is a fairytale-like town that will transport you back in time. Its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings, colorful houses, and flower-lined canals create a truly enchanting atmosphere. The historic center, known as the "Old Town," is a delight to explore, with its cobblestone streets and charming squares. Colmar is also renowned for its excellent gastronomy, offering visitors the chance to savor traditional Alsatian dishes and world-class wines.
3. Riquewihr: Nestled amidst vineyards and rolling hills, Riquewihr is a small medieval village that seems straight out of a storybook. Its well-preserved fortifications, narrow streets, and beautifully restored half-timbered houses make it a true gem of Alsace. Strolling through the village, visitors can admire the vibrant flower displays and explore the local shops selling regional products such as wine, cheese, and artisanal crafts. Riquewihr is also known for its annual Christmas market, which adds an extra touch of magic during the holiday season.
4. Obernai: Situated at the foot of the Vosges Mountains, Obernai is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere. Its medieval center is a delight to wander through, with its colorful facades, quaint squares, and well-preserved fortifications. The town is also famous for its wine production, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours at the local wineries. Don't miss the opportunity to climb up to the Obernai's Mont Sainte-Odile, a nearby mountain offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Hunawihr: Tucked away in the heart of the Alsace wine region, Hunawihr is a small village that exudes tranquility and charm. Surrounded by vineyards and overlooked by the ruins of a medieval castle, this picturesque village is a paradise for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit the local wineries for tastings, and take leisurely walks through the vineyards. Hunawihr is also home to a stork and otter sanctuary, where visitors can learn about the region's wildlife conservation efforts.
6. Eguisheim: Known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Eguisheim is a postcard-perfect destination that will captivate you with its medieval charm. The village is characterized by its concentric streets, which spiral around the central castle and are lined with colorful half-timbered houses adorned with flowers. Eguisheim is also renowned for its wine production, and visitors can explore the local wineries and taste the region's famous wines. Don't miss the opportunity to visit during the Christmas season when the village is adorned with festive decorations.
7. Kaysersberg: Nestled in a valley surrounded by vineyards and forests, Kaysersberg is a delightful town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural splendor. Its well-preserved medieval center is a joy to explore, with its narrow streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. The town is also famous for its Christmas market, which attracts visitors from near and far. Kaysersberg is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails and cycling routes in the surrounding area.
8. Mulhouse: Located in the southern part of Alsace, Mulhouse is a vibrant city with a rich industrial heritage. It is home to several excellent museums, including the Cite de l'Automobile, which houses one of the largest collections of vintage cars in the world. The city's historic center is a mix of architectural styles, ranging from medieval to Art Nouveau, and is a pleasure to explore on foot. Mulhouse is also known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year.
9. Haguenau: Situated in the northern part of Alsace, Haguenau is a charming town with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. Its historic center is home to several well-preserved medieval buildings, including the impressive Saint George's Church. The town is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, providing ample opportunities for leisurely strolls and picnics. Haguenau hosts a variety of cultural events, such as the annual Folklore Festival, which showcases traditional Alsatian music, dance, and costumes.
10. Ottmarsheim: Located near the Swiss border, Ottmarsheim is a small village that is home to one of the most remarkable Romanesque churches in Alsace. The Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, dating back to the 11th century, is a true architectural masterpiece. Its intricate carvings, stunning frescoes, and imposing bell tower make it a must-visit attraction for history and art enthusiasts. Ottmarsheim is also surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy scenic walks and bike rides.
Hotels Map Of Alsace
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Tours And Activities In Alsace
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Food & Drinks To Try In Alsace
1. Tarte flambee: Also known as flammekueche, this traditional Alsatian dish is a thin, crispy pizza-like tart topped with cream, onions, and bacon. It is a must-try when visiting Alsace.
2. Choucroute: Alsace is famous for its sauerkraut, and choucroute is a classic Alsatian dish that showcases this fermented cabbage. It is typically served with various types of sausages, smoked meats, and potatoes.
3. Baeckeoffe: This hearty casserole dish is a specialty of Alsace. It consists of layers of marinated meat (usually lamb, beef, and pork) with potatoes, onions, and carrots, all slow-cooked in white wine.
4. Munster cheese: Alsace is known for its delicious cheeses, and Munster is one of the most famous. This soft, washed-rind cheese has a strong aroma and a rich, creamy flavor. It is often enjoyed with bread and paired with a glass of local wine.
5. Kougelhopf: This traditional Alsatian cake is a must-try dessert. It is a sweet, yeasted cake with a distinctive shape, often baked with raisins and almonds. It is typically enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
6. Riesling wine: Alsace is renowned for its white wines, and Riesling is one of the most popular varieties. This dry, aromatic wine pairs perfectly with the region's cuisine and is a great choice to accompany your meal.
7. Cremant d'Alsace: If you're a fan of sparkling wine, don't miss the opportunity to try Cremant d'Alsace. This traditional method sparkling wine is made in the same way as Champagne and offers a great alternative at a more affordable price.
8. Mirabelle plums: Alsace is known for its orchards, and the region produces delicious Mirabelle plums. These small, yellow plums are often used in desserts, jams, and liqueurs. Don't forget to try a Mirabelle tart or a glass of Mirabelle brandy.
9. Bretzels: Similar to pretzels, Alsatian bretzels are a popular snack in the region. They are typically soft and chewy, with a sprinkling of coarse salt on top. Enjoy one as a quick bite while exploring the charming streets of Alsace.
10. Alsace beer: While wine is the star of the region, Alsace also has a thriving beer culture. There are several local breweries producing a variety of craft beers, including lagers, ales, and wheat beers. Take the opportunity to try some of the local brews and discover the unique flavors of Alsace beer.
Best Time To Visit Alsace
The best time to visit Alsace, France is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the region experiences mild and pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The spring months of April and May are particularly beautiful, as the flowers bloom and the vineyards come to life. June to August is the peak tourist season, with longer days and numerous festivals and events taking place. However, it is important to note that accommodation prices and crowds can be higher during this time. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable visit, September is a great month to explore Alsace, as the weather remains pleasant and the tourist crowds start to thin out. Overall, anytime between April and September offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the charm and beauty of Alsace.
Flight Calendar For Alsace
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Transportation To Alsace
There are several transportation options to Alsace, France.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport to Alsace is the Strasbourg Airport (SXB), which is well-connected to major cities in Europe. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to your destination in Alsace.
2. By Train: The French National Railway (SNCF) operates regular train services to Alsace. The main train stations in Alsace are Strasbourg, Colmar, and Mulhouse. You can take a train from major cities in France or neighboring countries to reach Alsace.
3. By Car: Alsace is well-connected by road networks. You can drive to Alsace from major cities in France or neighboring countries. The A35 and A4 highways are the main routes to reach Alsace by car.
4. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Alsace from major cities in France and neighboring countries. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines operate bus services to Alsace.
Once you are in Alsace, you can use public transportation like buses and trains to explore the region. Taxis and rental cars are also available for convenient transportation within Alsace.