Alsace, the picturesque region in north-eastern France, is a hidden treasure that invites you to travel and discover. With its unique blend of French and German cultures, Alsace offers an authentic experience that will leave you with wonderful vacation memories. Its charming villages, verdant vineyards and sumptuous castles transport you to a world where time seems to stand still. Whether you're a lover of history, gastronomy or simply in search of natural beauty, this is a destination that's sure to seduce! Embark with the Petit Futé to discover the 17 must-sees in Alsace.
1. Strasbourg, the beauty of Alsace
Just 2 hours by train from Paris, Strasbourg is a must-see city for a weekend getaway. At the heart of the city you'll find, among other architectural wonders, the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Unsurprisingly, it's one of the 15 must-sees for a weekend or your next vacation in Strasbourg.
Just a stone's throw away,the Parc de l'Orangerie offers a haven of peace in the middle of the city. Take a moment to yourself, enjoying its vast lawns, serene lakes and magnificent formal gardens. Are you a culture buff? Then head for the Musée Alsacien! This fascinating museum boasts a rich collection of objects tracing the history and culture of Alsace.
Of course, the region's typical half-timbered houses are also a sight not to be missed. As in most Alsatian towns and villages, they dot the historic center, immersing you in a unique medieval atmosphere. Strasbourg is also famous for its picturesque canals. A romantic stroll through the heart of Petite France, with its canals and narrow streets, is a must!
In short, this dynamic city with its distinctive charm is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a vacation, a successful EVJF or a seminar.
Colmar is also a perfect starting point for discovering the historic sites of Alsace. We recommend booking this excursion from Strasbourg, which will take you to the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, stroll through the villages of Riquewihr and Kayserberg, and follow the Wine Route by bus.
2. Colmar, the city of 1001 colors
Looking for the perfect place to spend a weekend in May? Head for Colmar, its colorful houses and its Little Venice! This captivating town immerses you in its magical atmosphere, with its cobbled streets, canals lined with half-timbered houses and lively markets. During your visit, we invite you to visit the Musée Unterlinden. It houses an exceptional collection of works of art, including the famous Issenheim Altarpiece, a Renaissance masterpiece.
In Colmar, you're sure to discover architectural treasures worthy of the name, such as the Maison des Têtes and the Collégiale Saint-Martin . The best thing, of course, is to book a tour with a guide: take advantage of our partner's special rates by right here your Colmar guided tour!
3. Discover the most beautiful castles in Alsace
Do you love castles? You'll love Alsace! Here are some of the most beautiful to discover during your vacation, château du Haut-Koenigsbourg stands majestically on a hilltop, offering spectacular panoramic views over the valley. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and imposing fortifications make it a must-see for history buffs.
You can also set your sights on Château de Fleckenstein, nestled in the heart of the Vosges forest. Its ruined structure creates a mysterious and bewitching atmosphere. Haven't you had enough? We understand, so here's a small selection to satisfy your desire for historical visits:
- Upper Andlau,
- ortenbourg,
- haut-Eguisheim.
There's so much to see and do! Mixing a little history with your vacation is a great way to vary the pleasures. Luckily, there are many castles in this beautiful region.
4. Obernai, a typical Alsatian town
Looking for a tour of Alsace's most beautiful villages? Head for Obernai and its architectural treasures. In addition to its unmissable half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, the town stands out for its superb 19thᵉ century ramparts. Immerse yourself in the heart of Obernai's town center. A pretty market, which originated in the XIVᵉ century, awaits you every Thursday. It's a pleasure to stroll through this pretty town center, passing its belfry and its period square tower along the way. Lovers of fine religious buildings will be amazed by the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul church.
5. The incomparable charm of Riquewihr
Looking for a change of scenery without having to travel too far? In this pretty little corner of Alsace, you'll feel like you're in another country, so surprising is the scenery! As well as being listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, Riquewihr is also one of the prettiest countryside spots accessible by train for weekend relaxation.
This ancient fortified town has developed over the years, making wine and tourism (not mass tourism, fortunately!) its strong points. Located at the heart of the Alsace wine route, it's a must-see when visiting this beautiful region. We recommend that you book this guided tour which will take you through Alsace's picturesque medieval villages, such as Riquewihr.
6. Hunawihr, between vineyards and village
Like Kaysersberg, Hunawihr is a prime destination for a romantic weekend away. Let yourself be carried away by the beauty of the typical Alsatian landscape... Vines as far as the eye can see, a church listed as a Monument Historique, beautiful period residences: it's like a wind of serenity blowing through this adorable village in the Haut-Rhin region. Interested in discovering this village? We recommend that you book this guided tour to discover the character and history of the region!
7. The Alsace wine route
Alsace's vineyards and surrounding towns are a must-see at least once in your life as a seasoned traveler. The Alsace wine route stretches some 170 kilometers through the vineyards of Alsace, linking a series of charming wine-producing villages. Some of the most emblematic towns and villages along the wine route include:
- Riquewihr,
- Ribeauvillé,
- Hunspach,
- Colmar,
- Eguisheim,
- Hunawihr,
- Mittelbergheim.
Along the way, you can sample (in moderation!) a wide variety of famous white wines, such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris. Local wineries open their doors to you, as you stroll along picturesque country lanes. From time to time, you can also enjoy delicious Alsatian cuisine in traditional inns. A gourmet walk to die for!
8. The white half-timbered houses of Hunspach
Let's stay a little longer on this famous wine route. One ofHunspach 's special features is its lovely half-timbered houses, all in white. Although less colorful than most Alsatian towns and villages, the result is 100% successful! These superb houses are enhanced by pretty flowers that punctuate your stroll, offering a pleasant escape. As you stroll along, you'll discover many buildings listed as Historic Monuments. A must-see!
9. Discover the Cité du Train de Mulhouse
The Cité du Train de Mulhouse is Europe's largest railway museum, offering an immersive experience for railroad enthusiasts. This fascinating museum houses an impressive collection of over 100 locomotives and 300 historic railway vehicles. Young and old alike will marvel at the majestic steam trains, electric locomotives and restored wagons. A real plunge into railway history awaits you!
The Cité du Train also features interactive exhibits and train driving simulators, giving visitors a fun way to experience the railroad.
10. Thann, the purity of Alsace
Imagine a charming village nestled in the heart of nature... Here you are in Thann, surrounded by vineyards and the beautiful green countryside of the Haut-Rhin! Known for its impressive Gothic church, the Collégiale Saint-Thiébaut, the village boasts picturesque medieval architecture. It's also the starting point for the Route des Crêtes, a panoramic road that crosses the peaks of the Vosges mountains, offering dazzling views over the region.
11. Mittelbergheim, a must for oenologists
Mittelbergheim is one of the most beautiful villages in eastern France: a must-see when visiting Alsace! While the village is renowned for its typical architecture, it is also known as a Mecca for Alsatian wine. Among its finest vintages, the Zotzenberg is the pride of its producers.
Are you planning a day between mountains and town? After admiring the superb Hôtel de Ville and the ancient oil mill, take advantage of your stay in Mittelbergheim to go for a walk on the slopes of Mont Sainte-Odile.
12. Climb Mont Sainte-Odile
Want to do more than just touch Mont Sainte-Odile? Organize a hike to discover it in its entirety! Nestled high above Obernai and Ottrott, it's home to a magnificent 12th-century abbey. Numerous footpaths have been laid out to take in the breathtaking panoramic views over the plain. Your route will be punctuated by picturesque chapels, the tomb of Sainte-Odile and even a few Merovingian tombs. A visit to Mont Sainte-Odile will immerse you in the history and spirituality of Alsace (not least thanks to its pagan wall).
13. Eguisheim, a charming, typically Alsatian village
Welcome to one of France's most beautiful medieval towns! Eguisheim is a must-see destination for visitors in search of authenticity and charm. With its narrow cobbled streets, colorful half-timbered houses and ancient fountains, Eguisheim seems straight out of a fairy tale. To complete the picture, take the town's Little White Train. Children will love it, and the whole family will learn a lot.
The village is also renowned for its enchanting Christmas market. The streets are lit up and filled with stalls selling handicrafts and Alsatian specialities. A real treat for the senses! Click here to book your guided tour of the picturesque villages of Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr along the Alsace wine route.
14. The Grand Ballon d'Alsace, for hiking enthusiasts
Alsace is home to some of the most beautiful mountain destinations, actively sought after by nature and hiking enthusiasts. The Grand Ballon d'Alsace is the highest point in the Vosges and one of the region's most emblematic destinations. Peaking at 1,424 meters, it offers enchanting panoramas of the surrounding mountains, verdant valleys and even the Black Forest in Germany on a clear day. While walking is the main activity on this Alsatian mecca, mountain biking and paragliding offer pleasant alternatives. At the summit, you'll find an observation tower, so you can admire the panoramic view in all its splendor. It's well worth the climb, I promise! Several hikes are possible, some of them quite short (just over an hour).
15. The authentic charm of Kaysersberg
Kaysersberg, one of France's most beautiful villages, offers a pleasant interlude. Its charming medieval town center, with its picturesque half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, immerses you in the town's history. What a pleasure to stroll along the Weiss river! Continue your stroll towards the imperial castle, and take time to stroll around the market square. In winter, it's even livelier thanks to its Christmas market, one of the most famous in Alsace. Kaysersberg is a true Alsatian treasure, offering an enchanting blend of history, culture, gastronomy and enchanting landscapes. Not to be missed!
16. Visit the Écomusée d'Alsace in Ungersheim
TheÉcomusée d'Alsace in Ungersheim takes you back in time to the rural life of Alsace. Set in the heart of a vast estate, this open-air ecomuseum offers a faithful reconstruction of over 80 traditional Alsatian buildings.
On the program: gardens, farm animals and craftsmen in period costume. A real treat! You've seen a lot of half-timbered houses so far? Now you can visit them, as well as the craftsmen's workshops and stables.
The Écomusée also offers interactive demonstrations, exhibitions and seasonal events. Be sure to check the program before you leave, so you don't miss a single event!
Petit Futé tip: book your Pass Alsacehere for free admission to nearly 60 tourist sites, including nature parks, castles, museums and many other fun activities at reduced prices throughout Alsace!
17. Remembrance tourism in Alsace
Alsace offers a rich heritage for remembrance tourism. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wars that left their mark on the region, and honor their heroes. A must-see is the Mémorial de l'Alsace-Moselle in Schirmeck, which retraces the region's turbulent history through exhibitions and poignant testimonies. The Hartmannswillerkopf, nicknamed "the man-eating mountain", is also a major historic site of the First World War, with its trenches and memorials. If you're vacationing near Marckolsheim, you can visit the Maginot Line Museum. Finally, the Natzweiler-Struthof concentration camp is one of the region's best-known sites.
As you stroll through the villages of Alsace, you'll come across many relics of those unhappy times. Fortifications and bunkers bear witness to Alsace's tumultuous history, reminding us of the tragic events that took place there.
What to do in Alsace in 3 days?
Got a 3-day weekend? Alsace is the ideal destination for a relaxing weekend in France. The good news is that Alsace is also a budget destination, ideal for those looking for a cheap weekend away from it all.
Here's a short program to make the most of your 3 days in Alsace:
Day 1: Discover Strasbourg
Morning: start your day with a visit to Strasbourg's majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. You can even climb up to the platform for a panoramic view of the city. At lunchtime, enjoy an Alsatian tarte flambée in one of the many restaurants in Strasbourg's picturesque Petite France district.
Afternoon: take a stroll along the canals of Petite France - a must! Then explore the Parc de l'Orangerie for a pleasant stroll.
Day 2: Alsace Wine Route
Morning: set off early for the Alsace Wine Route, as there's so much to see! If you can't do it all, we recommend at least Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and a few nearby villages.
Afternoon: a visit to the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. It's a real immersion in medieval history, while enjoying the picturesque scenery of the vineyards!
Day 3: Colmar and the Vosges
Morning: Head for Colmar, the "Little Venice" of Alsace. Its ultra-colorful city center is a pure delight for the senses!
Afternoon: off to the Vosges! On the way, stop off at Lac Blanc for a nature walk and admire the magnificent panoramas.
This short program will enable you to discover the essentials of Alsace in 3 days, combining the region's culture, gastronomy, historical heritage and natural beauty.
What to visit in Alsace in a week?
Lucky enough to spend a whole week in Alsace? Here's a small selection of must-sees for the following days:
Day 4: Mulhouse and the Automobile Museum
Morning: Head for Mulhouse, one of Alsace's most dynamic cities. Enjoy a visit to the Musée de l'Automobile, one of the world's largest classic car museums.
Afternoon: another museum awaits you, the Musée de l'Impression sur Étoffes, to learn more about the region's textile tradition.
Day 5: Alsace's most beautiful castles
Morning: start your day with a visit to Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, an impressive medieval castle perched on a hill. Explore its towers and ramparts and enjoy panoramic views over the region.
Afternoon: in the afternoon, visit Château du Fleckenstein, located on the border with Germany. This fortress offers a unique experience, with its underground tunnels and fascinating history.
Day 6: Route des Crêtes and Munster
Morning: head for the Route des Crêtes, to enjoy breathtaking views of the Vosges mountains. There are plenty of places to stop and take photos.
Afternoon: visit the town of Munster, and taste its famous cheese! Afterwards, explore the abbey and stroll around the surrounding area to take a breather.
Day 7: Mont Sainte-Odile and Obernai
Morning: set off early in the morning to visit Mont Sainte-Odile, an emblematic site in Alsace. Explore the monastery and chapel, learn about the history of Sainte-Odile, the patron saint of Alsace, and enjoy panoramic views over the Alsace plain from the Mont's terrace.
Afternoon: head to the nearby village of Obernai. Renowned for its medieval charm, you'll fall under the spell of its half-timbered houses and pretty cobbled streets. And don't forget to visit the Tour des Sorcières!
Want to reduce the cost of your trip? Discover City Kamp offers in cities such as Strasbourg and Colmar. You could also consider discovering Alsace by motorhome: the region lends itself perfectly to this.
What to do in Alsace in December?
Alsace in December is a magical destination, thanks in no small part to its famous Christmas markets and charming festive traditions. Alsace's Christmas markets are among the finest in Europe. The most famous are in Strasbourg, Colmar, Mulhouse and Riquewihr, to name but a few. As you visit more and more picturesque villages, you'll discover others along the way.
You'll also have the opportunity to sample Christmas specialities such as :
- pretzels in a variety of flavors,
- christmas cookies (bredele),
- spiced mulled wine, known as "Vin chaud Alsacien".
Some Alsatian castles, such as Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, are also illuminated during the Christmas season, creating a magical atmosphere. And why not take advantage of the festivities to discover some of the towns on a horse-drawn carriage ride? Children will love it!
Some villages, like Saasenheim and Ittenheim, also organize themed Christmas cribs. A quick trip to the ice rinks scattered here and there in Alsace's towns and cities, and you've got a wonderful, masterfully organized winter holiday!
What to do in Alsace in summer?
In summer, Alsace transforms into an ideal region for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Start by exploring the magnificent hiking trails of the Vosges, especially the Ballon d'Alsace massif, with its superb panoramas and peaceful lakes. Or do you prefer cycling? The region offers superb cycling trails along the Alsace Wine Route. You can cycle through Alsace's vineyards and charming villages at your own pace.
For a touch of culture, visit the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, perched on a hill with panoramic views over the region. We also invite you to discover summer festivals such as the Festival International de Colmar or the Festival du Film Fantastique de Strasbourg.
Prefer an off-season vacation? Alsace is also the perfect region to visit during the All Saints' vacation!
What to do in Alsace with your family?
If there's one place kids will love, it's NaturoParc, an animal park designed to raise public awareness while promoting the reintroduction of species. Located in Hunawihr, this park with its pure soul is a real delight! You can round off your visit with the Parc de l'Aventure du Nideck, located in Oberhaslach, Bas-Rhin. Treasure hunts, tree climbing, orienteering: there's plenty of fun to be had! Children will also love the Cité du Train in Mulhouse, one of Europe's largest railway museums, where they can explore old trains and discover the history of the railroads.
Of course, the Alsace Ecomuseum will also offer a few hours of pure pleasure for the whole family. This total immersion in the life of yesteryear, where visitors become actors in their visit, is simply fascinating! Want to mix business with pleasure once again? Head for Choco-Story, in Colmar. On the program: cultural visit, tasting, making your own chocolates and many other gourmet surprises! Some museums may also be of interest to younger visitors, such as the Musée du pain d'épices et de l'art populaire alsacien and the Musée du jouet de Colmar.
Alsace has so much to offer, it can be hard to choose. Its charming villages, with their half-timbered houses, take you on an immediate journey. It's almost as if you've crossed a border, offering a 100% change of scenery. Did you enjoy your trip? Come back next year to visit the Vosges or the Jura, you won't regret it either!
