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Epic 4 Days Road Trip in Alsace Itinerary

Are you looking for an amazing road trip in Alsace itinerary? Then you are in the right place!

Alsace is a cultural region in Eastern France. It is famous for its medieval town squares and the Alsatian wine route.

There is a lot of information out there on which spots to visit in Alsace. To be honest, most of these itineraries are cramped and there is no time to appreciate all the places.

If you are not looking forward to visiting 5 villages per day – you are in the right spot.

For that reason, I have created a relaxed road trip itinerary for the Alsace region – and of course, collected many great travel tips for this ultimate travel guide to Alsace.

Let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Alsace road trip itinerary – at a glance, how to get around alsace, l’hotel & spa ribeauvillé, about the alsace wine route, strasbourg cathedral (cathédrale notre-dame de strasbourg), la petite france, palais rohan, barrage vauban, explore the town center of ribeauvillé, visit the three castles, wine tasting, where to eat in ribeauvillé, historic old town, little venice, unterlinden museum, kaysersberg, what to eat in alsace, parking on the alsace roadtrip, how much time do you need in alsace for a road trip, best time to visit alsace, conclusion: road trip in alsace itinerary, faq: alsace road trip itinerary, about the author.

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Day 1: Strasbourg

Day 2: ribeauvillé.

• Day 3: Colmar, Riquewihr
• Day 4: Kaysersberg, Obernai

To get around Alsace, you will need a (rental) car. The Alsace wine route is best seen by car.

Many villages in Alsace are quite far away from each other and hard to reach with public transport.

The biggest airport in the area is in Strasbourg. I recommend picking up a rental car in Strasbourg.

We usually book our rental cars with DiscoverCars, because they are reliable and cheap. They also have a great cancellation policy, which I appreciate.

Driving in Alsace is super easy, the roads are in great condition and everything can easily be found.

The Alsace wine route is one of the most scenic drives in France.

Where to Stay in Alsace on a Roadtrip

Most villages worth seeing in Alsace are relatively close together. Driving time is minimal (less than 20 minutes).

For that reason, we decided to stay in Ribeauvillé – and make this our base for the entire trip. It is very conveniently located and a bit more quiet than Colmar.

We opted for a day trip to Colmar instead of staying there because it is also easier to park the car for free in Ribeauvillé.

Of course, you can switch hotels multiple times and stay in different villages. To have a more relaxed trip, we opted against switching hotels, and we were very happy with our choice.

We decided to stay in the beautiful L’Hotel & Spa Ribeauvillé.

The 4* hotel did not disappoint. From our room, we had a beautiful view over the vineyards and the stork’s nests in the village.

But the true highlight of this hotel was the spa. The beautifully designed spa area downstairs offered everything you could possibly need. A hot tub, a swimming pool, a sauna, a steam room, and a relaxation room.

The personnel was super friendly, and parking was free. Breakfast was also included in the rate.

There is nothing not to love about L’Hotel Ribeauvillé.

The Alsace Wine Route is also known as “Route des Vins d’Alsace.”

It is a picturesque and renowned wine route in the Alsace region of France. It is one of the oldest and most famous wine routes in the world.

Wine enthusiasts, tourists, and nature lovers from all over the world stop at the Alsace wine route.

The route is approximately 170 kilometers (about 105 miles) long. It leads through the beautiful Alsace countryside, connecting numerous charming villages and towns along the way.

The route is lined with around 70 adorable, wine-producing villages. Every village has its own unique character and architecture.

My favorite villages along the Alsace Wine Route are Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Obernai, and Kaysersberg.

Strasbourg is a historic city located in northeastern France. It is the capital of the Alsace region.

Since you will most likely be landing in Strasbourg, I have included it in this Alsace road trip.

Strasbourg is one of the most significant cities in the European Union because it houses several key EU institutions.

Strasbourg has a rich and interesting history. It dates back over 2,000 years. The city has been influenced by both French and German cultures. You can still see it in the architecture, traditions, and cuisine.

Before heading down the Alsace wine route, there are quite a few things in Strasbourg that you can check out.

If you crave a bit more guidance and cultural info, why not participate in a tour in Strasbourg?

• Strasbourg Like a Local Customized Private Guided Walking Tour
• Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience
• Discover Strasbourg’s most Photogenic Spots with a Local

The first thing you should check out in Strasbourg is the Strasbourg Cathedral. The awe-inspiring Gothic church is one of the most important religious monuments in Europe.

It has a striking façade, a beautiful rose window, and an impressive spire. If you go inside you can see stained glass windows and the astronomical clock.

Parts of Strasbourg are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This charming neighborhood Le Petite France is definitely worth a visit.

Le Petite France is a picturesque area with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and canals.

It is a typical Alsatian neighborhood, that makes for great pictures. The neighborhood offers a romantic atmosphere and a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

The Palais Rohan is a super interesting palace. It once served as the residence of the prince-bishops of Strasbourg.

Today, it consists of three main museums: the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Archaeological Museum.

It has an extensive art collection that is worth visiting.

The Barrage Vauban is a historic dam and bridge. It was built by a guy named Vauban in the 17th century.

It offers some panoramic views of Strasbourg, including the cathedral and the surrounding neighborhoods.

The terrace on top of the dam is a popular spot that should be on your bucket list.

Ribeauvillé is a charming medieval town in the Alsace region. It is also my favorite village in Alsace – for many reasons.

Ribeauvillé is nestled close to the vine-covered hills of the Vosges Mountains. It is famous for its well-preserved historic architecture and wine-producing heritage.

The town’s medieval heritage is especially evident in the three medieval castles that overlook Ribeauvillé: Ginsberg, Saint-Ulrich, and Haut-Ribeaupierre.

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Things to Do in Ribeauvillé

Ribeauvillé is a small town that makes you feel like you stepped back in history. The village has a well-preserved medieval center that you can easily explore on foot.

You can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and see charming half-timbered houses that are decorated with colorful flowers. It almost has a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.

There are many cute little shops offering local arts and crafts in the town that you should check out.

Make sure to sit down for a glass of delicious wine in one of the many bars and restaurants that line the street.

Tip: visit La Grand Rue and the Eglise Saint Gregoire.

A cool thing to do in Ribeauvillé is hiking up to the three castles. The three medieval castles overlooking Ribeauvillé are called Girsberg, Saint-Ulrich, and Haut-Ribeaupierre.

Sadly, there are only ruins left. But the ruins offer panoramic views of the town and the surrounding vineyards. It is an amazing spot for photography.

It takes about an hour to hike up to the castles from the village. The hike is not too intense, but make sure to bring good shoes and lots of water (we forgot!).

If you love castles, you can also take a short drive to the Château du Haut – Koenigsbourg .

A road trip to the Alsace Wine Route would not be complete without a wine tasting.

You can discover the famous Alsatian wines by visiting the local wineries and cellars in and around Ribeauvillé. There are so many little wineries in the village, that it is not hard to find a sport for a tasting.

Don’t forget to try the dry Rieslings, aromatic Gewürztraminers, and the Pinot Gris, my favorite.

A great place for wine tasting in Ribeauvillé is Domaine Jean Sipp.

We tasted 8 different wines, and since we purchased a couple of bottles the tasting was for free.

Ribeauvillé has an amazing choice of restaurants. They serve traditional Alsatian cuisine – at fabulous prices.

All of the restaurants are unpretentious and have a super sweet atmosphere.

Here are some of my favorite restaurants in Ribeauvillé:

• D’baecka Ofa Stub
• Winstub La Flammerie
• Restaurant Caveau de l’ami Fritz
• Au Cosy Bar (charcuterie boards)
• Boulangerie Pâtisserie Vilmain (lunch and pastries)

Day 3: Colmar & Riquewihr

Colmar is a stunning town in Alsace. Colmar is known as the “Little Venice” of France – and has in recent years become insta-famous.

Colmar is renowned for charming canals, medieval architecture, and colorful flower-lined streets.

I recommend going early in the morning because it gets super crowded during the day.

Of course, you should also consider taking a guided tour through Colmar. Here are some of my favorite tours:

• Colmar: Private guided walking tour of the Historical Center
• Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Colmar with a Local
• Explore Colmar’s Art and Culture with a Local

Colmar’s historic center is full of preserved buildings, some dating back to the Middle Ages.

Half-timbered houses, colorful facades, and narrow cobblestone streets make it a great place to wander and immerse yourself in history.

Make sure to walk by the St. Martin’s Church, the Ancienne Douane, and the Marche Couvert Colmar.

One of the highlights of Colmar is its “Little Venice” district. As the name already suggests, it is named for its picturesque canals lined with charming houses.

You can take boat tours along the canals and explore the town on the water. It is also a great place for a scenic walk or a delicious lunch.

Sadly, later in the day, this part gets really crowded. Make sure to be there early for a great experience.

The Unterlinden Museum is a must-visit attraction in Colmar.

It is housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent. The Unterlinden Museum is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts.

The most important piece is the Isenheim Altarpiece, painted by Matthias Grünewald in the early 16th century.

Colmar is probably the best place in Alsace if you want to do some shopping.

Lots of cute little shops have decorated storefronts and cute stuff to bring home.

Rue Des Clefs is the biggest shopping street in Colmar, make sure to hop by.

Riquewihr is a stunning medieval village that needs to be on everyone’s Alsace itinerary. Riquewihr is known as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Riquewihr is located in the heart of the Alsace Wine Route. It is surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.

The village’s history dates back to the 8th century, and wandering through its narrow alleys is like stepping back in time.

Riquewihr is, just like most Alsatian towns, characterized by its half-timbered houses, colorful facades, and flower-filled balconies. It has a fairy-tale atmosphere.

The town has several landmarks you should check out, such as the Dolder Tower. It is a medieval watchtower that offers great views of the village and surrounding vineyards.

Riquewihr is a great place for wine tasting. The winery Dopff au Moulin is one of the most important in the village, and they welcome visitors for tastings every day.

When we visited Riquewihr, it was sadly super crowded, so it was not my favorite village on the Alsace itinerary.

If you need some guidance, make sure to book a Riquewihr Private Walking Tour.

Day 4: Kaysersberg & Obernai

Kaysersberg is another charming and picturesque town in Alsace. You can find it along the eastern slopes of the Vosges Mountains.

Kaysersberg is located in the valley of the Weiss River.

Kaysersberg has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The village was founded by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. The town’s name means “ Emperor’s Mountain.”

The heart of Kaysersberg is a lovely old town, that you can check out on foot. On the central square, you can find local markets and events.

One of the town’s most impressive landmarks is the ruins of Kaysersberg Castle. They are perched on a hill overlooking the town.

The castle is mostly in ruins and not super spectacular. However, it offers breathtaking views of the vineyards and mountains. It is definitely worth the hike.

If you need some guidance around the village, I can recommend booking the Kaysersberg Private Walking Tour.

Since this is the last day of the Alsace itinerary, the Alsace road trip will take us back to Strasbourg. On the way, we decided to stop in Obernai.

Obernai’s history goes back to Roman times. The town has been influenced by the Germans and the French due to its good location along important trade routes.

The heart of Obernai is the Place du Marché (Market Square). It is a lively and picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings, restaurants, and cafes. This is a great spot for a late lunch or early dinner.

One of the town’s most interesting landmarks is the St. Odile Church. It is a stunning Gothic church in the middle of the town.

The Mont Sainte-Odile is a nearby mountain. It is famous as a pilgrimage site and a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.

Alsace is a region known for its delicious and unique cuisine. The dishes are an interesting blend of German and French influences. We have loved Alsatian food – and I am sure you will too.

Here are some of the dishes you must try in Alsace:

• Choucroute: Delicious cabbage cooked with different meats, such as sausages, pork, and sometimes ham or bacon.
• T arte Flambée (Flammekueche): Also known as the “Alsatian pizza.” It is a thin flatbread and mostly topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Of course, there are many different variations available in traditional Alsatian restaurants.
• Baeckeoffe : This is a traditional Alsatian casserole made with layers of sliced potatoes, onions, and meat.
• Coq au Riesling: This reminds me a bit of the French coq au vin. It is made from a chicken cooked in Riesling wine along with mushrooms and onions.
• Kugelhopf : This is a traditional Alsatian yeast cake, sometimes served with raisins.
• Munster Cheese
• Asparagus : In spring during the Asparagus season you can find many dishes with delicious vegetable in Alsace.
• Crémant D’Alsace: This is the Alsatian version of champagne. Since producers are only allowed to call drinks from the Champagne region champagne, other sparkling wines are called Crémant .

By now, you are probably wondering about the parking situation on this road trip through Alsace.

In this Alsace itinerary, you will be visiting many smaller villages. Much to my surprise, they have big, well-organized parking spots. They are usually a bit outside the city center, so there is a bit of walking involved.

Parking costs around 1 – 3 € per hour.

Make sure to book a hotel with parking spots for overnight, otherwise, it might get expensive.

I think you should spend at least 4 days in Alsace on a road trip.

This 4-days in Alsace itinerary leaves some room for relaxation and time to appreciate the villages.

Of course, the more time you have, the better. There is much more in Alsace to be seen and done than what I could fit into this itinerary.

If you want a truly relaxed Alsace itinerary, I suggest staying for a week. This also leaves some more time for wine tasting, hiking in the National Park and relaxing.

The Alsatian wine route is a place to relax, enjoy and unwind. Make sure to allow ample time for your visit.

The best time to visit Alsace for a road trip depends on your preferences. Each season in Alsace has its own charm, and there is no bad time to visit Alsace.

However, here are a couple of things to keep in mind when planning your road trip to Alsace:

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a lovely time to visit Alsace. The region comes alive with colorful flowers and blossoms. The weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the picturesque towns and vineyards. Spring also marks the beginning of wine festivals and outdoor events. We visited at the end of Spring and absolutely loved it.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time to visit Alsace due to its warm and sunny weather. The days are long and you can sit outside sipping wine in the evening. Sadly, it can get crowded during peak tourist season. I would not recommend going in the Summer for that reason.
• Autumn (September to November) : Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Alsace. If you enjoy the vibrant colors of fall foliage – this is your season. The vineyards and landscapes turn golden, making it a lovely time to explore the wine route. It’s also harvest season, so you can participate in wine festivals and taste freshly made wines.
• Winter (December to February): Winter in Alsace is especially enchanting. During the Christmas season, the towns are beautifully decorated with festive lights and Christmas markets everywhere.

This brings me to the end of my Alsace road trip itinerary.

Overall, I can recommend taking this trip to everyone. My husband and I both felt like it was the best trip we took all year.

The villages are charming, the locals are friendly and the scenery is beautiful. There is nothing pretentious about Alsace, and that is precisely why we loved it.

If you can’t get enough of traveling to France, I have good news for you.

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I recommend staying at least for 4 days in Alsace. The beautiful region has a lot to offer, and you could easily busy yourself for a week in Alsace. Highlights like Strasbourg, Colmar, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr should definitely be on your Alsace itinerary.

There is no bad time to go to Alsace, but Spring, Fall, and around Christmas are ideal. Alsace in summer is very crowded, so I would avoid going then. Especially during Christmas times, Alsace is stunningly beautiful.

The four wonders of Alsace are its stunning vineyards, charming medieval towns like Strasbourg and Colmar, the impressive Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, and the picturesque Route des Vins (Wine Route) offering breathtaking views and world-class wines.

Many people refer to Eguisheim as the most beautiful village in Alsace. Personally, I find Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg to be the most charming villages in Alsace. Colmar is also extremely enchanting but gets a bit too crowded.

Alsace is uniquely characterized by its blend of French and German culture, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The region’s picturesque vineyards, charming medieval villages, and the harmonious coexistence of both cultures make it a captivating destination, renowned for its beauty, wines, and distinctive Alsatian dialect.

No, Alsace and Colmar is not the same. Alsace is the name of the region in France. Colmar is a city in the Alsace region. Many people do think of Colmar when they hear Alsace and vice versa.

The most famous specialty of Alsace is the flatbread pizza called Flammekueche. It is a very thin pizza topped with sour cream, onions and bacon. Traditional Alsatian restaurants, called Winstub, serve the pizza.

Sabrina is a passionate travel blogger and content creator, based in the Netherlands. She spends most parts of the year abroad at various destinations with her husband.

She provides slow-paced itineraries that focus on quality over quantity. Sabrina wants to help her readers to get more out of their travel experiences – while doing less. Read more.

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Ultimate 4-Day Alsace Road Trip Itinerary + MAP

Visit the fairytale villages of Alsace.

Alsace is a region in northeastern France. It’s a beautiful place that you have to experience; it looks like it came straight out of a storybook.

We made a 4-day road trip through Alsace, including a 1-day visit to Strasbourg, the Alsace region’s capital that includes a castle of an unpronounceable name and a few of the most beautiful villages in France.

It is super picturesque, and it is ideal for visiting them on foot as you will be able to buy Easter eggs, visit flea markets, and taste their chocolate and wine. Where do we start?

• Best Things to do in Strasbourg
• Must-Visit Places in Colmar

When to Go to Alsace?

The best dates to visit Alsace are Easter and December . During these dates, you can observe the beautiful decorations that adorn the streets.

We went during Easter, and as you can see in the photos, the whole village is decorated for the occasion with many Easter eggs and rabbits everywhere. It really looks like the setting for a story.

• Check Out: Best things to do in Strasbourg
• Check Out: What to see in Colmar in 1 and 2 days.

Day 1 in Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace , and I loved it. It is a large city and is the location of the headquarters of the European Parliament; it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is very beautiful.

If you are considering distributing your visiting days, I recommend that you spend at least one day and one night in Strasbourg.

If you come from Paris, you could make a few stops, including Kirrwiller, a quaint little village lovely for a walk.

• Tip: Take your free walking tour with an English guide in Strasbourg.
• Recommendation: Buy the Pass’ Alsace (only 25€)

The Best Places to Visit in Strasbourg

The Cathedral Square and The Cathedral of Notre Dame; have impressive Gothic styles, one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.

Kammerzell House, the home of wealthy merchants for generations, was built in the 16th century by a cheese merchant.

The ground floor, made of stone in the fifteenth century, includes arcades under which were the shops.

Ribera Del Ill; you can see very picturesque places and historical places such as the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg, The Alsatian Museum, and the Church of St. Thomas.

The “Petite France”: It is a very picturesque neighborhood that fishermen, millers, and tanners once inhabited.

The houses have exposed wooden beams and are painted in different colors. The tanners’ houses are almost all built with a loft; the first and sometimes the second floor protrude above the ground floor.

The roofs are open with galleries where they dried the skins after washing them in the canal.

You can’t leave without seeing the covered bridges and the Barrage Vauban.

• Check out this post: Strasbourg in 1 day
• Ideally, you should sleep in Strasbourg

Day 2: Beautiful Villages and 1 Castle

Visit haut-koenigsbourg castle.

We started this day by visiting the Castle of Haut-Koenigsbourg . It is an iconographic symbol of the region, with a neo-Gothic Mannerist reconstruction and a bizarre distribution.

At the beginning of the 12th century and during the thirty-year war, it was severely damaged and completely destroyed by fire in 1633.

William II Hohenzollern funded its reconstruction (from 1901 to 1908) to turn it into a museum and, take advantage of the occasion, into a symbol of the recovery of Alsace by Germany.

Although newly built, the castle faithfully respects medieval architecture.

The refinement of its interior rooms is impressive, with wall paintings, Renaissance furniture, and huge iron stoves. In addition, the basements contain a preserved collection of Middle Ages weapons, including crossbows, swords of all kinds, and armor.

From here there are fantastic views.

Ideally, visit the castle as early as possible since it is one of the most visited monuments in France.

The general ticket is 9 euros, and there are discounts for young people (students, etc.).

• Tip: The ticket to the castle is included in de Pass’ Alsace

What to See in Ribeauville?

It is a typical Alsatian town, of those that seem fairytale-like, that makes you smile just by walking through its streets.

In these locations, you must let yourself be carried away and get lost in its streets and, of course, take many photos.

One of the highlights of Ribeauville in the House of the flutists 16th-century Pfifferhes, the 18th-century Hotel de Ville, the 13th-century tower gate, the Gothic church, and the Renaissance fountain.

If you want, you can also visit the Castle of St.-Ulrich, which was the residence of the Countess of Ribeaupierre, one of the noblest families of the Alsace.

Buy Alsace Wine in Hunawihr

When we arrived, we had the village to ourselves and decided to walk around it quietly. It is a tiny town, and we visited it in a very short amount of time.

However, you have to go up to the church, where the practice of simultaneous is held, that is, a place of worship where both Catholics and Protestants practice their faiths in the same place.

They must have had more than one or two fights, don’t you think?

Here, we bought a box of Alsace wine, which I would have liked to remember its name, because it was very attentive and because it was from a small winery.

Riquewihr, Best Things to Do

This small population of colorful half-timbered houses is located in the center of the Riesling wine region (you definitely have to try it) and very often is full of visitors.

In the sixteenth century, the castle housed the Museum of History of the PTT, which is about the history of the postal service in the Alsace region dating back to Roman times all the way to the present day.

At one end of the central street is the Dolder. The 13th-century tower gate is located on the first wall; you can visit the small local history and archeology museum.

What to do in Kaysersberg?

It is a fortified city with 13th-century walls and is dominated by the ruins of a castle whose homage tower is circular.

You have to let yourself be carried away by its streets, and it is a very picturesque village. But, then, you have to visit the Church of the St.-Croix, which shows a Romanesque-Gothic style from the twelfth to fifteenth centuries.

Tour Rue de Gaulle, with its old half-timbered houses, and gaze at the Weiss from its fortified 1511 bridge. Stop at number 30 and visit the Verrerie d’Art de Kaysersberg, old art glassware.

Today it continues to manufacture glassware according to the artisan tradition. At 126 on the same street is the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, Nobel Peace Prize.

If you have more days, visiting the castle and two villages is ideal. If not, you have to take it easy. But you can visit everything without a problem, and all these villages are very close to each other.

Day 3 Turckheim, Eguisheim, Colmar

We have not been bored of Alsace’s picturesque villages, with their colorful half-timbered houses and fairytale-like environments.

We used our third day to visit Turckeim and Eguisheim, the most beautiful villages of the Alsace region, and at night, we had dinner and made a night tour in Colmar .

What to See in Turckheim?

It is also located on the Alsace wine route. This town has been populated since Gallo-Roman times, as evidenced by the coins, tombs, and ceramics found on the site. Its moment of greatest splendor and growth was in the ninth century around Munster Abbey.

In the fourteenth century, it became the empire city of the House of Austria. It has suffered much damage from the wars between France and Germany but has never lost its elegance.

Without a doubt a must on your trip to Alsace and the Wine Route.

Eguisheim: one of the most beautiful villages in the Alsace Region

It’s a beautiful village with half-timbered houses and one of the villages of the Alsace wine route. It is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

The distribution of streets is quite curious as they follow a pattern of concentric circles.

So you cannot miss anything; you enter the village, it will tell you to go left, and you will literally be given a spin of the entire village.

The village is very well maintained and decorated. Let yourself be carried away by its cobblestone streets; visit the central square with its 16th-century fountain, the castle of the Countess of Eguisheim, and the chapel of Saint-Leo IX.

The best time to go is at Easter, in August with the stork party and the winemakers’ festival, and in December for the Christmas decoration and its markets.

Colmar at night

We arrived for dinner in Colmar and visited Little Venice at night. Totally recommendable. The next day we dedicated the whole day to Colmar, to walk through its cobblestone streets, to enjoy the decoration of Easter, and to let its beauty carry us away!

Day 4. Visiting Colmar

I didn’t plan on getting so wrapped up in this post about the Road trip through the Alsace region in 4 days, but I have been unable to avoid it.

Our last day is dedicated to Colmar , a rather large city with cobblestone streets and medieval and early Renaissance buildings.

Here we will also see colorful half-timbered houses, the Collegiate Church of San Martin, and a Gothic church of the thirteenth century.

Of course, it is part of the Alsace wine route; I repeat, taste the wines; they are excellent if they can be from small producers, even better.

You have to visit the area they call ‘Little Venice,’ it is stunning. The good thing about Colmar and all the localities I mentioned is that you can visit on foot. You drive, you leave it outside, and then you walk quietly.

I promise you that I will post about Colmar shortly so that you have all the information.

I recommend you have at least three nights’ sleep here and use it as a base of operations to make the rest of your visits. Check out these accommodations.

How to Get to the Alsace

You can do it as we have gone from Madrid, and the route through the Alsace was part of a longer road trip, or you can go by plane to Strasbourg and rent a car there. I think this is the best option to get to know this area on a 4-day getaway.

• Check out flight prices for your travel dates.
• Check out rent cars prices

How to Move Around Alsace

The most comfortable way to move from one village to another is in your own vehicle, whether it’s a car, van, motorbike, etc. Once in the town or city, your feet are the best form of transportation.

You’ll get everywhere by walking, the only bigger city you might want to use the car is Strasbourg, but believe me, you can walk.

Many charming villages deserve a visit, but you must choose depending on your days.

We loved these villages, and I would like to go back for Christmas, see their famous markets, and visit more of their storybook-like villages.

Brief Alsace’s History

When you read the names of the villages, it looks more like a German region than a French one, and this is because it was once German territory.

And well, it’s been about 300 years back and forth, but from World War II to the present day, it’s been French territory.

Since 2016 the Alsace region has been incorporated into the new Region of the Great East. Although in France they have made changes to the administrative division of their regions and have reduced their number, some are not very happy with these changes.

Originally, Alsatian was spoken in this area, a language composed of several dialects related to Serbian and Swiss German. Still, French has been the most common language since World War II.

The capital of Alsace is Strasbourg, and that’s where you have to start your visit.

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• Best things to do in Strasbourg
• Best things to do in Colmar
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Last Updated on 17 April, 2024 by Veronica

Disclosure: Some of the links on this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Author: Veronica

Vero, a seasoned traveler, has explored 25 countries and lived in five, gaining a rich perspective and fostering an infectious passion for travel. With a heart full of wanderlust, Vero uncovers the world’s hidden gems and shares insights, tips, and planning advice to inspire and assist fellow adventurers. Join Vero and let the shared passion for travel create unforgettable memories.

Soy Verónica, una apasionada de los viajes, me gusta compartir mis experiencias viajeras en mi blog. He estudiado Empresas y actividades turísticas y ando metida en el mundo del Marketing Digital. Me gusta aprender algo nuevo cada día, conocer nuevos lugares y culturas diferentes.

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Arzo Travels

Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN ALSACE – 3 DAYS ITINERARY

Alsace road trip itinerary – things to do and see.

Are you planning your Alsace itinerary and wondering about the best places to visit in Alsace in 3 days (or 4 days)? This post is for you: find out where to go, what to do, how to road trip Alsace and more travel tips.

Table of Contents

The Alsace region in the eastern part of France  is known for several things – most of all, its wine, food, and cute medieval towns. The 170-kilometer-long Alsatian Wine Route weaves its way through Alsace’s thousand-year-old wine country. From Thann to Marlenheim, it passes through a string of picturesque villages in full bloom and well-known wine-producing towns.  

So, what does a person like me, a vegetarian who couldn’t care less about wine, do in Alsace?  

The answer is that road-tripping this lovely province is one of the most beautiful trips you can take in France!  And you do not have to be into wine to enjoy it. That‘s because vineyards are also for the eyes, and there are some of the most beautiful villages and towns here in France.

So, if you are wondering about a good – and quite short – road trip in Central Europe , then the Alsace Wine Route tour is probably perfect for you.

Here is my Alsace Wine Route road trip itinerary – 3 days in Alsace is the minimum, in my opinion. If you have 4, 5, 6, or 7 days, even better – but three days in Alsace is a good starting point for getting a very impression of this pretty region.

Here are some travel tips before naming some great stops and the best places to see in Alsace on this road trip.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means I might earn a small commission when you buy a product/service via my link (at no extra cost to you). More about it  here .

TRAVEL TIPS FOR AN ALSACE ROAD TRIP

Before talking about the most beautiful places in Alsace (from what I have seen), here are some travel tips.

Pin Me For Later – 3 Days in Alsace

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What is the Alsace Wine Route?

The Alsace Wine Route is a scenic drive through the vineyards and villages of Alsace, France. Stretching 170 kilometers between Marlenheim in the north and Thann in the south, this wine region is one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned.

Along the way, travelers can visit picturesque medieval villages and sample the region’s famous white wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer, or explore its many museums. The route’s numerous wineries offer tours of their cellars, tastings of their best vintages and plenty of opportunity to purchase a bottle (or two) to take home.

So take a leisurely drive through this corner of rural France and discover why it is so beloved by wine-lovers around the world!

In addition to its incredible wine, the Alsace Wine Route also offers visitors a chance to experience some of France’s most beautiful landscapes. Driving along the route is like taking a journey through time; one minute you’re passing vineyards and charming villages, and the next you’re gazing at views of rolling hillsides punctuated by windmills and steeples.

The Alsace Wine Route also passes through some of the region’s most iconic attractions, such as Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg and Mont Sainte-Odile.

Whether you’re an oenophile (which is a connoisseur of wines) or just looking to explore a beautiful part of France, the Alsace Wine Route is a must-do for anyone visiting the area. So hit the road and get ready to savor all that this magical region has to offer!

This Alsace itinerary does not cover the whole route, but if you add one or two more days and stay in Alsace for 4 or 5 days total, you can do the full road trip.

How to Get to Alsace

There are some international airports here, including the ones in Strasbourg and Mulhouse-Basel (about 70km from Colmar).

Colmar and Strasbourg, the end and starting points of this itinerary, also have well-connected train stations (it takes less than two hours to get from Paris to Strasbourg on the fast train).

How to Get Around Alsace

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : If you visit Alsace, you will find out quickly that using public transportation can be tricky . Many travel bloggers complained about bus timetables that were not easy to understand.

ROAD TRIP: So, for this Alsace itinerary, the best way to get around is to drive yourself (no tolls included in this trip). You can either rent a car or get here on your own. For day trips, you can do organized tours or get around via train, which is quite easy from Colmar to Strasbourg , for example.

Driving in Alsace  

Driving in Alsace is quite fun – the views are scenic, and the towns and villages you pass are pretty. The streets are well-paved. French drivers are generally a bit reckless and tend to tailgate. Don’t let them stress you out and drive at your own speed (there are speed signs everywhere, and though I did not see many speed cams, I would take speed limits seriously if you do not want to get tickets back home).

The brown signs indicate the “Alsace Wine Road Trip”.  I did not always see them and really typed in each of the places I wanted to go to in my GPS. I made sure to add smaller places, so my GPS would navigate me correctly.

During peak season, parking can get difficult, but there is quite a lot of parking in front of each town/village.

One hour costs around 2€ in most places (if you are on a really tight budget, you could park your car about a kilometer outside of each town center). It is 3€ for a day pass in Eguisheim – which is an exception though, and normally you have to put coins into a small machine and pay in advance.

This means you have to think about the length of your stay in advance. Some places offer free parking on Sundays or after 7 pm.

Best Time to Visit For an Alsace Road Trip

Visiting between May and October means you will enjoy the most beautiful scenery!   You will either enjoy the spring buds, the summer berries, or the fall harvest during this time.

I actually visited at the end of March and did not regret it though. Yes, I imaged it to be even greener and prettier in my head, but visiting in March or April when the vines had just started to bud also meant fewer visitors, fewer crowds (oh, these small towns and villages can get crowded), and more spontaneity with my hotel booking.

December is a very popular time to visit Alsace because of the famous Christmas Markets . However, if you have come here for the vineyards and to enjoy scenic rides while the sun is shining, come in the warmer months.

Where to Stay in Alsace

I stayed in Strasbourg for two nights and another night in Colmar . I explored Strasbourg for one full day and then drove to Colmar on my second day. Along the way, I managed to see all of the places I mention below. I spent my third day in Colmar and ended my trip there.  

If this is your first trip to Europe, check out my Europe travel tips.

Map Of Best Places to Visit in Alsace

BEST PLACES TO VISIT ALONG THE ALSACE WINE ROUTE

If you rent a car, I suggest renting one on Day 2 of your trip. For Strasbourg, you will not need a car (flying into Strasbourg means you can get to the city center easily by public transportation or taxi).

Day 1: Strasbourg

I started my trip in Strasbourg. It is not an official part of the Alsace Wine Route road trip, but it is one of the region’s must-see places. It is so rich in sights and attractions that I would plan at least one full day here.

Strasbourg is a beautiful city located in the Alsace region of France. It is known as the “Capital of Europe” due to its home to several European institutions such as the European Parliament and Council of Europe.

The city also has a vibrant cultural life, with many festivals, museums, and galleries to explore. Strasbourg also contains some of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in France, including its impressive Notre Dame Cathedral.

I suggest spending a full day in Strasbourg and staying overnight before starting your next day early. Check out my detailed Strasbourg itinerary with detailed tips and more travel tips.

Where to Stay in Strasbourg

• If you want to indulge in a 5-star hotel in the old town of Strasbourg, right in Petite France, this hotel might be the perfect choice for your stay in Strasbourg – check out rates for Hotel Regent Petite France & Spa here.
• But if you are looking for a more budget-friendly hotel close to the old town, check out this Ibis Style hotel .

Day 2  : Obernai, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim

While the more scenic routes come when driving through the little towns and villages along the vineyards, I drove the highway to get to my first stop, which took me about 30 minutes.

I should mention that I normally left my hotel around 7 am, so I am out for quite a while and get to see as much as possible. So, for this second day, I managed to see a lot in Alsace, but if you do not want to start your day so early, you might have to skip one place or another.

Also, if you do a wine tasting, you will have to skip a few places – or add one or two more days to your itinerary so that you can visit all the places I saw in one day in 2 or 3 days.

I did not spend much time here, but I really liked what I saw. I made Obernai the first real stop on my wine route tour.

Obernai is a charming medieval village located in the Alsace region of France. It’s situated on the Alsace Wine Route and is home to many historic monuments, such as the Clock Tower and St. Odile Basilica.

It is a very well-preserved town in the region. Whether you drive through or park your car and stroll the place, checking out the town hall or Saint Pierre and Paul Church, it is cute and fun, and a good first stop.

If you are doing the same Alsace itinerary as I did, you will not have much time to spend here – unfortunately. Though it is a pretty place in Alsace, there are more spots waiting for us.

If you have a minimum of four days in Alsace, you can also visit the Mont Sainte-Odile (first drive there and then hike up) and enjoy panoramic views of the Alsatian plain.

Are you into hiking? Then take your time and see what there is to see at Mont Sainte-Odile (located west of Obernai), which makes this part either a 10-minute stop or a half-a-day stop.

After that, head to Ribeauville.

RIBEAUVILLE    

Located along the Alsace Wine Route, there’s plenty to see here besides the vineyards in Ribeauville.

Ribeauville is a charming village in the heart of Alsace’s wine country.

Sitting at the foot of the Vosges Mountains, Ribeauville boasts stunning views of vineyards and rolling hillside landscapes. The centuries-old town is full of historical riches, from its cobblestone streets to its medieval castle. Explore the area’s many wineries and sample the region’s famous white wines.

Walking through Ribeauville will give you the chance to see it in all its glory. Colorful houses with flowers on display, medieval castles and churches, and historical monuments are scattered throughout the old town. 

When you head to the vineyards, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the vines and the Alsace region.

If you don’t have enough time, you can skip it, but if you are going to be in Alsace for four days or are very motivated during a shorter visit, then visit this lovely French town.

If you can visit only one place on this day, then make it Riquewihr. While all of the places mentioned had their charms and were impressive, this one was my favorite.

Riquewihr is one of the most picturesque towns on the Alsace Wine Route, boasting over 500 years of history and many impressive half-timbered houses. It’s no wonder why it has become a popular tourist destination;  explore its narrow cobblestone streets and discover countless shops selling regional specialties, such as…wine.

Riquewihr also features a beautiful castle, the Maison des Têtes, which is a great place to soak up some of the town’s history.

It’s a tiny village with narrow streets and bright, colorful houses – Riquewihr definitely likes to show off. It felt unreal and reminded me a bit of Germany´s most beautiful medieval town, Rothenburg ob der Tauber (though it is smaller).

Wander through its cobblestone streets, visit the 13th-century Dolder Tower houses (one of which has a medieval weapons display), or stop by the 16th-century Maison de Vigneron that has winemaking tools and a restored kitchen for you to see.

Shortly after Riquewihr, you will be entering the heart of the vineyard region. Don’t hesitate to stop and explore, go winery-hopping (with moderation, of course, unless you want to walk all the way back!), and taste the many wines the region is famous for, like Riesling.

KAYSERSBERG

Kaysersberg is a charming fortified village located on the Alsace Wine Route. It has historical buildings dating back to the 14th century, including an old castle and a Renaissance-style town hall. Take part in Kaysersberg’s annual Christmas market (in December at least) or explore its picturesque vineyards which produce some of the region’s most renowned wines.

Kaysersberg is a great place to stop on your tour of the Alsace Wine Route and sample some of the area’s finest wines. While you’re there, don’t forget to take in the town’s stunning views of the Vosges Mountains!

Kaysersberg was my second to last stop for this day – another idyllic village on this Alsace road trip. What sets it apart from the other medieval villages is its fast-moving river, which gives it a different feel.

Like the other towns in this area, the flowers and half-timbered houses are focal points when you visit. As small as Kaysersberg is, you should have no trouble getting around on foot and taking in the sights.

One of those sights is the Château de Kaysersberg. Built over 800 years ago, the castle played a key role in developing the town and its history.  

I did not have a chance to go up to the castle. But if you have more time than I did, you can enjoy lovely views and see colorful Kaysersberg from above.

If you have time – and more importantly, if you have some energy left – you can make Eguisheim your last stop of the day.  

Eguisheim is a charming village located along the Alsace Wine Route. It is considered one of the region’s most beautiful villages and home to a historic castle and fortified church.

Surrounded by lush green hills, Eguisheim is a quaint little town along the Alsace Wine Route. Full of narrow streets, lovely architecture, and colorful flowers, this is the perfect place to get lost for a few hours.

See some historical fountains and visit the 13th-century church that displays the well-known  “Opening Virgin” statue while you’re here.

Day 3: Colmar

Last but not least, plan for a full day for Colmar. It is either a good starting or ending point on the itinerary and one of France’s prettiest towns.

Colmar is a picturesque city in the Alsace region of France and is a popular stop along the Alsace Wine Route. The city center is filled with colorful half-timbered buildings, canals, and bridges while its many museums offer insight into regional history and culture.

From its renowned wine tasting to its charming Christmas markets, Colmar is a must-visit destination when exploring the Alsace region.

The town is bigger than the other places mentioned on this Alsace itinerary (except for Strasbourg), but still small enough to be walkable. I think that one day in this fairy-tale town is surely enough to see its best attractions, like Little Venice and the old town.

Here is my detailed 1-day itinerary for Colmar with more travel tips.

Where to Stay in Colmar

• I stayed at the 3-star Colmar Hotel, and I loved it. It is just next to the train station, so whether you get here in your own car or by train, the hotel is perfect. Also, the breakfast was great (including muffins, crepes, pancakes, and much more) and the rooms were clean, bright, and modern. It is for sure my first pick for Colmar.  To find out more about the hotel and check out rates, click here.

EXTRA TIPS FOR 4 OR 5 DAYS IN ALSACE

If you have more time for your Alsace trip, then this might be interesting for you.

Chateau du Haute Koenigsbourg

Over 850 years old, this medieval castle sits on a rocky hill overlooking the Upper Rhine Plain. Centuries ago, it was used as a strategic lookout before being abandoned and later rebuilt by German Kaiser Wilhelm II.

This castle gets over 500,000 visitors a year, and it’s easy to see why. From its vantage point, you can see out across the Alsace region, and the views are breathtaking.

I did not have a chance to visit the castle while I was in Alsace, but if you like to hike or plan to spend 4+ days out here, I would definitely suggest going.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON MY ALSACE ROAD TRIP

An Alsace road trip promises an unforgettable journey. Its picturesque villages, sprawling vineyards, and architectural wonders offer something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to its delicious regional wines, its vibrant cultural life or its incredible historical landmarks, a three-day tour of Alsace is sure to be an amazing experience.

Take in the stunning views of the Vosges Mountains, explore its many wineries, and sample some of its delicious culinary delights. Don’t forget to also take home a few souvenirs from its many boutiques so you can remember your Alsace road trip forever!

The Alsace Wine Tour road trip (what a name!) is a fun and easy road trip. So, if you stay 3 days in  Alsace, you will have enough time to see the most beautiful places in a nutshell. 

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Alsace road trip: a 7-day itinerary

With candy-coloured villages that look like they could be in a children’s bedtime story and an abundance of gastronomically-heavy sins governed by centuries of traditions, and with a culturally complex heritage, Alsace is unquestionably a sight for sore eyes.

Panoramas stretching between Strasbourg and Mulhouse, flanked by the soaring Vosges mountains, are dotted with ruby-coloured fortresses, rolling hills striped with luxuriant vines fueled by the mighty Rhine River, and make for an infinitely interesting incursion into la province.

Miraculously unscathed by the widespread ravages of both great wards —at least, nowhere as extensively as other French and German regions— Alsace is culturally sandwiched between Germany and France and yet has only been officially part of the latter since 1945. It was, however, regularly contested and handed over by both countries as their frontiers evolved ever since the Thirty Year’s War.

“ A glass of Alsace wine is like a summer dress or a flower in spring, it’s the ray of sunshine that simply makes life brighter. “ – Christian Dior

The local dialect is, in fact, much closely related to Swabian and Swiss German than it is to the region’s national language, French.

This is precisely what made me so interested in the region at first; that dual identity. How it is so definitely French in some ways, yet infinitely German in others, and how, at times, it is neither, simply 100% Alsatian.

In preparation for your trip to Alsace, here are a few places I myself have visited (believe it or not but I did squeeze in a few cultural stops, not just wineries) and which I strongly recommend. Bon voyage!

Alsace road trip: a few noteworthy stops

As the seat of the European Parliament and many international organisations, Strasbourg has so many different faces it’s hard to find the right word to describe it. Über-modern in some areas, beautifully historic in others, it boasts an eclectic combination in both its culture and its architecture―it is, appropriately, Alsace’s capital city.

The first place you want to visit in Strasbourg is the Petite France neighbourhood, the oldest part of the city. It comprises multi-centennial half-timber houses, numerous canals, impossibly charming cobblestone streets and mature trees, which, in addition to being picture-perfect, certainly make for an enjoyable backdrop for an indulgent post-dinner stroll.

Speaking of which, I recommend that you try the famous flammkuchen , a traditional Alsatian pizza with extra thin crust topped with crème fraiche , lardons and thinly sliced onions.

Another important stop is the Strasbourg Cathedral. It was the world’s highest structure for well over 200 years (and now the 6th tallest church), it’s one of the finest works of the late Gothic architecture. Visible far across the plains of Alsace and sometimes as far as the Black Forest on clear days, Strasbourg Cathedral is famous for its intricate, detailed carvings and its characteristic pinkish hue. Entry is free of charge.

If you visit in the summer, make sure to plan some time to attend the very entertaining daily light show at 10 PM.

+ alsace travel tips

My favourite & most beautiful villages in france.

My favourite place on the entire itinerary! This is a “postcard” kind of place, with impeccably preserved timbered houses in various rainbow colours.

It’s a very small village, with just one main pedestrian street, but I can’t stress how much it is worth going. It felt like walking in a medieval dream as if everything had remained untouched for the past six centuries. The main street is flanked by local artisans, flowers, wine cellars, cafés and quaint B&Bs.

Shortly after Riquewihr, you will be entering the heart of the vineyard region. Don’t hesitate to stop and explore, go winery-hopping (with moderation, of course, unless you want to walk all the way back!) and taste the many wines the region is famous for, like riesling and gewürtztraminer, as well as crémant, the Alsatian alternative to Champagne.

Kaysersberg

The second idyllic village on this Alsace road trip didn’t disappoint. It is a little bigger than Riquewihr in size and boasts the same type of medieval charm, except this time, the postcard is complete with castle ruins.

One of the best reasons to go to Kaysersberg is to enjoy the magnificent view of the village and the surrounding vineyards from the castle remains – although your calves may not agree at first, the view from atop the guard tower is infinitely worth the short hike.

You will not be able to enter the village with your car, but it’s just as well since you get to walk by the canal and its beautiful houses on your way to the main square. Enjoy the pedestrian life, grab some ice cream and sit at one of the many terraces and indulge in some good old-fashioned people watching.

+ france travel tips

How to travel around europe for a month with a eurail pass.

Last but not least on this idyllic Alsace road trip, Colmar. Not a village by any means, Colmar is a midsized French town with an attractive historical centre that is easily walkable.

There are many interesting sights in Colmar in addition to its magical atmosphere, such as the House of the Heads, whose facade is, unsurprisingly, decorated with 111 heads. Nothing creepy, rest assured, it is in fact quite a work of art.

Nearby is also the famous Pfister house, St.Martin’s church, Bartholdi Museum (the architect behind the Statue of Liberty) and the Little Venice neighbourhood (something about the canals…).

For dinner, I opted for another typical Alsatian winstub called Restaurant des Tanneurs and was impressed with the cosy feeling of the place, decorated with large wooden beams and dim lights.

+ europe travel tips

Checking-in: 22 jaw-dropping & iconic airbnbs in europe, alsace road trip – additional stops.

Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

That’s when the Alsace road trip actually begins! Hop in your car and head south to the stunning Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, an important stop between Strasbourg and the smaller vineyard villages. Nestled in the Vosges mountains, it dates back to the 12th century and is a sight for sore eyes, both the castle itself and the scenery of the Alsatian plains. It is everything like what we, modern-age people, imagine what a medieval fortress looked like.

Beautiful villages of Alsace

The local tourism board,  Tourisme Alsace , is a great resources to plan your trip and find noteworthy sights for you to stop at along the way:

• Mittelbergheim
• Dambach-la-Ville

Alsace wine route

Pretty self-explanatory, isn’t it? Check out  Wines of Alsace  for inspiration, if you’re looking for a specific vigneron or fancy a particular cépage . Obviously, do not drink and drive. EVER.

Hike in the Vosges

There are plenty of bucolic, postcard-worthy hikes to be done in Alsace especially as you inch closer to the Vosges mountain range; Le Ballon is the tallest peak at just 1400 metres via the iconic  Route des Crêtes.

Neuf-Brisach

An exceptional 17th-century fortified town designed by the illustrious Vauban, Louis XIV’s military engineer, later on Marshal of France, and considered the foremost engineer of his time; his most fervent admirors claim that he strengthened the French identity by consolidating the Hexagon’s borders with his unsurmountable fortresses. Neuf-Brisach is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Marie-Eve is a native Montrealer trying to balance a deep love for her hometown and an unquenchable thirst for travel and discovery. She has been to more than 36 countries, lived abroad in both France and the U.K., and is always on the lookout for authentic experiences wherever she travels -- especially if it involves wine.

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Little Holidays

Helping you plan amazing holidays

Driving in Alsace – a road trip in the gorgeous French wine region

Europe , France , Travel Guides / June 12, 2020 by littleholidays / 13 Comments

When it comes to relaxing holidays, there’s no town like a wine town.

One: you have the perfect weather that helps create the perfect grapes. Two: these grapes produce amazing wine that inspires delicious food. And three: this makes everyone giddy happy and friendly!

But too much of a good thing can be oh-so-wonderful, so we add one more ingredient to this perfect holiday recipe: the open road. And that’s exactly how we spent our holiday in Alsace, France’s northeastern wine-growing region: a road trip through beautiful towns, lush vineyards, and breathtaking mountain roads, all while filling up on good food, great wine, and amazing sights.

Little Holidays Guide to Alsace, France

How to plan your road trip in alsace.

• Map – essential landmarks

Road trip itinerary – best things to see and do in Alsace

• Planning your trip

Beyond Alsace – where to go next

• Download the PDF guide
• Get a free custom itinerary

Here’s my recommended road trip itinerary for your holiday in Alsace.

I’d recommend having two bases for this trip – sleep on nights 1-2 in Colmar , then nights 3-5 in Strasbourg . If you’re flying into Strasbourg, pick up your rental car at the airport then drive for about an hour to Colmar.

Day 1 – Once you’ve settled in your hotel in Colmar, head out to Eguisheim, the cradle of Alsatian wine and one of the region’s prettiest villages. Walk around the village’s winding cobbled streets, then hike to the Les Trois Chateaux. Afterward, drive to the Lac du Ballon and the Grand Ballon for easy afternoon hikes around the beautiful Vosges national park.

Day 2 – Explore two more medieval towns near Colmar: Kaysersberg and Riquewihr. Walk along Kaysersberg’s canals and hike up to the ruins of the chateau, then continue your hike through the forest to Riquewihr. Visit one of the many wine cellars in the village and make sure to try the local cuisine.

Day 3 – Spend the morning exploring Colmar – walk around the picture-perfect “Little Venice,” peek into several architectural landmarks, and visit the markets to buy wine, chocolates, and cheese. Have lunch at one of the traditional wine stubs serving traditional Alsatian food. On your drive north to Strasbourg, stop by the Haut-Koenigsbourg, a medieval castle on a mountain.

Day 4 – Drive to the towns north of Strasbourg: La Petite-Pierre, Saverne, and Bouxwiller. Hike around the northern Vosges national park from the Petite-Pierre Chateau to see impressive rock formations along easy-to-moderate trails.

Day 5 – Explore the beautiful city of Strasbourg . Walk around the picturesque Petite France district, get the best views from the Barrage Vauban, then make your way to the Krutenau district. Take some time to visit the museums and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. Enjoy the rest of the day at Place Kleber. If you have more time or another day to spend in Strasbourg, visit the gardens or go biking around the city.

Tell us: What are you most excited about your holiday in Alsace?

• Unwinding in Alsace’s picture-perfect fairytale towns
• Sightseeing, dining, and shopping in Strasbourg
• Enjoying the region’s fine wines and hearty cuisine
• Driving through the vineyards and following the wine trail, one enchanting town at a time
• Hiking and biking Alsace’s forests and wine trails
• Unwinding in Alsace’s picture-perfect fairytale towns 36%, 218 votes 218 votes 36% 218 votes - 36% of all votes
• Sightseeing, dining, and shopping in Strasbourg 36%, 218 votes 218 votes 36% 218 votes - 36% of all votes
• Enjoying the region’s fine wines and hearty cuisine 11%, 67 votes 67 votes 11% 67 votes - 11% of all votes
• Driving through the vineyards and following the wine trail, one enchanting town at a time 10%, 58 votes 58 votes 10% 58 votes - 10% of all votes
• Hiking and biking Alsace’s forests and wine trails 8%, 46 votes 46 votes 8% 46 votes - 8% of all votes

Map – essential landmarks in Alsace

Use this Google map to help you plan your road trip in Alsace. I added all the important landmarks, the best places to visit, and the best areas and hotels to stay in.

For your road trip, I recommend using Waze to navigate.

Day 1 – Exploring the south of Colmar

Our holiday in Alsace begins the day before when we arrived in Strasbourg in the afternoon. We picked up our rental car from the Avis office near Gare Centrale and drove straight to our hotel in Colmar. This was about a 1-hour drive mostly through motorways.

On our first “official” day of exploring Alsace, we paid a visit to Eguisheim, the cradle of Alsatian wine. As we were driving to the south of Colmar, we decided to continue further and hike around the southern parts of the Vosges natural park.

Eguisheim – the cradle of Alsatian wine

Eguisheim is about 7 KM south of Colmar, a 15-minute drive through gorgeous vineyards. Most sites within the village are concentrated in the historical center, which you can explore within an hour.

Eguisheim is a medieval village that has been inhabited since the Paleolithic age. It’s believed to have been conquered by the Romans, who developed wine cultivation in the area. It was also Pope Leo IX’s birthplace in the 11 th century, and the chateau at the center of the village is kept as a homage to him.

Eguisheim was our first brush with the storybook Alsatian village architecture. Narrow and winding cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and flowers spilling from everywhere have rightfully earned this little town plenty of national and European awards. In 2013, it was voted as the “Favorite French village.”

Take in charming views from the Chateau Saint-Leon, a former castle built in the 13 th century and now a chapel dedicated to Saint Leo. Walk along the Rue de Rempart Sud for the village’s most photogenic spots. Try to find the L’Authentique Pain d’Epices store here to get some pastries.

When we were there (late September), the village was quiet, with only a few fellow tourists walking around. As it was the first village that we explored, my experiences in Eguisheim influenced my impressions of Alsace as a whole – as a gorgeous region filled with friendly people everywhere. It seemed village locals and local tourists took great pride in the village’s charm – most people would greet you with a bright “Bonjour!” and offer to take your picture by the closest flower-decked window or door that you happen to be standing by. The beautiful houses and monuments served as gorgeous backdrops to a pleasant holiday.

Later on, we returned to Eguisheim to buy wine. We got several bottles of Reisling (dry white wine), Muscat (fruity white wine), and Cremant d’Alsace rosé (the region’s sparkling wine) from Leon Beyer and Wolfberger . For brunch, we dropped by the La Galinette , where we had delicious savory and dessert crepes, all paired with wine, of course.

Hike from Eguisheim to Les Trois Chateaux

From the village center, we spotted a cluster of eerie-looking ruins on top of a hill, which we decided to see up close. These were Les Trois Chateaux (or: three castles of Husseren-les-Chateaux; three castles of Eguisheim).

From the village center, we followed the Rue de Trois Chateaux and walked for almost an hour along vineyards. The first 3 kilometers of the hike goes through vineyards up a mild slope. We then passed the quiet village of Husseren-les-Chateaux.

The final kilometer, though, proved to be quite challenging, but still doable for a hobby hiker like me. The slope became steeper until we finally reached Les Trois Chateaux.

After checking out the chateaux and taking pictures of the views from the top of the hill, we made our way back down to Eguisheim following the much gentler red circle trail.

Back at Eguisheim, we collected our car and drove on to the next stop: Lac du Ballon.

Views in Lac du Ballon and Grand Ballon

It’s a bit of a drive to Lac du Ballon (40 KM, 45 minutes) through winding mountain roads, but it’s a great spot to enjoy the autumn colors and the mountain air.

From Lac du Ballon, you can hike to the Grand Ballon via signposted trails – plan for a 90-minute hike one way. However, since we weren’t sure we could go back to our car by the lake before sundown, we opted to drive to the Grand Ballon instead.

The Grand Ballon is the highest mountain of the Vosges, and also the highest point of the Grand Est region at 1424 meters, so expect breathtaking views from the summit. It derives its name from ballon, a French geographical term for a mountain with a rounded summit – and not from the air traffic control radar station on the summit which, well, looks like a grand balloon. You’ll also find the Diables Bleus monument erected as a tribute to the victims of the battalions of mountain infantry who fought in World War I.

For a traditional Alsatian dinner, check out Ferme auberge du Haag just a short drive from the Grand Ballon parking lot.

After leisurely walks around the Grand Ballon, we made our way back to Colmar.

Practical information

• We drove a total of 120 KM from Colmar to Eguisheim, Lac du Ballon, Grand Ballon, and back to Colmar. Note that if you’re driving from Lac du Ballon to Grand Ballon (instead of hiking), you’ll have to go around the long way and drive for more than 20 KM (may take up to 45 minutes).
• The hike from Eguisheim to Les Troix Chateaux and back was about 7 KM, with easy to moderate trails.
• There were parking areas near the Lac du Ballon and the Grand Ballon. In Eguisheim, you can park for free on Parc du Millenaire along Rue des Oiseaux. Otherwise, you can use the pay parking lot near Grand Rue.
• Check the Google map to view our hike and driving routes. Always follow road signs and have a back-up map with you.

Day 2 – Exploring the north of Colmar

On the second day, we explored the stars of the historic Alsace wine route: Kaysersberg and Riquewihr.

Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg is another well-preserved medieval town with more of the Alsatian half-timbered houses, plus several impressive structures like the Church Sainte Croix and the 16 th century stone bridge crossing the Weiss River. In 2017, it was Kaysersberg’s turn to be chosen as the “Favorite French village.”

The ruins of Chateau de Kaysersberg on a hill above the town is a reminder of its strategic importance during wartimes in the past. It’s about a 15-30-minute hike to the Chateau, from where you can continue following the trails to Riquewihr.

Kaysersberg is also the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, a winner of the Nobel Peace prize who worked to establish a hospital and leper colony in Africa, among many other achievements. You’ll find his encouraging words of wisdom peppering the trails to the chateau.

From the Kaysersberg chateau, we saw signposts of a trail that led to Riquewihr, so instead of going by car, we decided to continue on foot. After about an hour through the forest, we were welcomed by the pretty town of Riquewihr.

Along with Eguisheim and Hunawihr, Riquewihr belongs to the list of the most beautiful villages in France. Of all the towns I visited in Alsace, Riquewihr is obviously the tourist favorite – its main street was filled with tourists either taking pictures of the beautiful town, notably the pinkish, flower-decked Dolder (lookout tower), or spilling out of the cafes and restaurants lining the street.

After a quick circuit of the town, we ducked into a wine cellar owned by Maison Zimmer , where we tasted some wines and got a bottle of the Cremant d’Alsace. We then went for a late lunch of flammkuchen (or tarte flambée) at the Au Vieux Riquewihr.

Afterward, we trekked back to Kaysersberg, then drove back to Colmar.

• Kaysersberg is about 12 KM (40 minutes driving time) from Colmar. We parked on a lot across Le Petit Gourmand, near the public cemetery. You’ll also see several pay parking lots as you enter the town.
• Riquewihr is 6 KM north of Kaysersberg and a one-way hike would take about 90 minutes. If you go by car, you’ll be able to visit other beautiful towns like Hunawihr and Ribeauvillé.

Day 3 – Exploring Colmar

Colmar is the center of the arrondissement of Colmar-Ribeauvillé and is considered the capital of Alsatian wine. It’s a well-preserved medieval town founded in the 9 th century with numerous architectural landmarks and museums.

Like the rest of Alsace, Colmar was passed from France to Germany and back several times during the last centuries. You will see this in the architecture, food, language, and culture.

The town also enjoys a sunny microclimate and is one of the driest cities in France, thanks to the Vosges mountains that shield it from precipitation. This makes for an ideal terroir to grow the world-class Alsatian wines, and of course, a setting for the perfect holiday.

Colmar was mostly spared from the destructions during the French Revolution, so you’ll be able to enjoy the old townscape in Colmar. The centerpiece of the town is la Petite Venise or “Little Venice,” a district filled with flower-decked canals lined by half-timbered houses and specialty shops. You’ll also find lots of great restaurants in this area.

Other architectural landmarks to visit are St. Martin’s Church, which is made with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, and well-preserved medieval buildings like the Maison Adolph, Maison Pfister, and Maison des Têtes. If you want to learn more about the history of Colmar, the museum to visit is the Unterlinden Museum .

For chocolates and macarons, stop by the Jacques Bockel chocolaterie . For cheese, particularly the local munster cheese, and sausages, get them from Chez Thierry.

As for gastronomy, Colmar is certainly not lacking in great restaurants. But we did find out on our first night there that even during off-peak seasons, Colmar does lack tables. We went to 5 different restaurants on our first night and were turned away, even though there were only 2 of us. We ended up eating pitiful vending machine food that night. Lesson learned: reserve a table!

One of our favorite meals from our entire holiday in Alsace came from Wistub Brenner , one of the many traditional wine stubs or wine lounges serving hearty regional food in Colmar. Wistub Brenner is one of the more established and popular ones, so make sure to book a table in advance. I loved the bibalaskas, which is a traditional Alsatian dish served with ham, cheese, and potato salad. It’s right by the canal in Little Venice, so our delicious dinner came with a lovely view.

If you’re up for wines and artisanal Alsatian beers, check out the L’epicurien wine bistro. They also serve delicious French food.

If you’re looking for fine dining in Colmar, check out La Maison des Têtes . They serve both French and Alsatian dishes in a classical setting. And of course, it’s right in one of Colmar’s most beautiful buildings!

You can read more in my detailed Colmar travel guide .

Haut-Koenigsbourg

After exploring Colmar, it was time to say goodbye and move on to Strasbourg. Since the drive from Colmar to Strasbourg was quick (1 hour), we decided to visit Haut-Koenigsbourg , a medieval castle-fortress that lies in the mountains between the two cities.

Strategically located on a rocky ridge overlooking a plain, the chateau was used by royal families, robber barons, and invading troops from the Middle Ages until it was abandoned in the 17 th century. Now, it is a popular tourist attraction and classified as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture.

There are several trails to various landmarks from the chateau, like the Montagne des Singes (Monkey Mountain) and the Volerie des Aigles (Eagle Park). We mostly spent our time walking around the chateau grounds and the medieval garden.

After a few hours around the chateau, we began our drive to Strasbourg.

• The drive from Colmar to Haut-Koenigsbourg is 30 KM (driving time is about 40 minutes), and from Haut-Koenigsbourg to Strasbourg is 60 KM (90 minutes).
• In Colmar, parking at the Parking Lacarre is free for 3 hours. Most other pay parking areas in the town are for free from 7 PM to 9 AM the next day.
• There are plenty of street parking spaces in Strasbourg, which are also free from 7 PM to 9 AM. If you can ask your hotel to save you a spot, that would be great because parking spaces are tricky to find. Even better, book a hotel that offers private parking spots.

Day 4 – Exploring north of Strasbourg

La petite-pierre.

La Petite-Pierre is a commune 60 KM (60-90-minute drive) northwest of Strasbourg and the gateway to the northern Vosges natural park. Make your way to the Chateau de la Petite-Pierre, where a lot of trails around the natural park take off from.

From the Chateau de la Petite-Pierre, we followed the “Circuit des 3 rochers,” which goes to three impressive rock formations. It’s 10 KM long and took about 3-4 hours along easy to moderate trails. You can see the directions for this hike as well as more hiking trails in La Petite-Pierre here .

If you have more time, the nearby towns of Saverne and Bouxwiller are also nice places to visit. After our hike, we drove back to Strasbourg and returned our car to the Avis office.

Day 5 – Strasbourg

Finally, we arrive in Strasbourg, the capital of the historic region of Alsace and the symbolic capital and formal seat of the European Parliament.

When we arrived in Strasbourg on Day 3, we had to endure the daunting task of navigating a strange, busy city and looking for parking. So it was with a great sense of relief that we returned our car on Day 4 and explored Strasbourg on foot and by buses and trams. I highly recommend letting go of your rental car once in Strasbourg. The city is very walkable, public transportation is efficient and easy to figure out, and you can also choose to go around in bikes.

The most photogenic district in Strasbourg is Petite France (“Little France”), a historic quarter that used to be home for the city’s tanners, millers, and fishermen. You’ll get the best views of the district from the Barrage Vauban, as well as from the many bridges that cross the canals.

From Petite France, make your way to the Krutenau district, where you can visit the Musée alsacien and the Palais Rohan. You can learn more about Alsatian history in these museums, or simply admire the French Baroque architecture.

From there, make your way to the mother of all architectural gems in Strasbourg: the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg. It’s one of the finest examples of late Gothic architecture and the highest existing structure built in the Middle Ages. Up close, it’s much more impressive with its detailed façade and its pinkish hue, thanks to sandstone from the Vosges mountains.

Afterward, enjoy the rest of the day at Place Kleber. If you have more time or another day to spend in Strasbourg, you can visit the Jardin des Deux Rives (Two Shores Garden) and the Parc de l’Orangerie for maximum downtime. You can read more in my detailed Strasbourg travel guide .

Planning your trip to Alsace

Getting there.

The gateway to Alsace is the region’s capital, Strasbourg. You can get to Strasbourg via several means:

Flying to Strasbourg – Strasbourg has an international airport in Entzheim, just 16 KM from the Strasbourg city center –  check for flights to Strasbourg here . From the airport, you can ride a shuttle train into the city. Other nearby international airports are in Stuttgart and Paris.

Traveling by land to Strasbourg –  If you’re coming from nearby cities and countries, you can reach Strasbourg by train or bus. If you’re on a multi-country trip, getting a  Eurail Global Pass  can be more convenient and economical for you. Otherwise, you can check  SNCF  for train connections to Strasbourg, or  RegioJet  and  Flixbus  for bus travel.

Getting around

Renting a car in Alsace – The most convenient place to get a rental car is in Strasbourg. There are two main pick-up points in the city: at the airport and near the Gare Centrale (Strasbourg’s central train station). You can choose and reserve a car from the major car rental companies in Strasbourg here.

We got our car from Avis via the RentalCars booking website . I like booking with them because generally, the rental fees are cheaper (since they’re able to negotiate a better price with major rental car companies). It’s also good to book a car online in advance to avoid having to wait for a long time, or worse, running out of cars. Avis’ downtown pick-up office is near the Gare Centrale – once you exit the station, turn right and walk to the end of the station. The Avis office, along with Sixt and Budget, is across the flags and beside Burger King.

If you have a driving license from the European Union, you can use this to drive in France. You’ll have to present your license, identification card, and credit card when you pick up your car.

If your license is from outside the European Union, you will need an international driving permit (IDP) and your local driver’s license. You have to get your IDP from the same country that issued your driver’s license (look up your country’s automobile association + international driving permit to find out how to obtain one), so do this before leaving for your holiday. When picking up the rental car, make sure to have your IDP, local license, passport, and credit card.

Note that Europe mainly drives manual transmission cars, so if you require an automatic transmission car, make sure to reserve one well in advance (about three months) as these cars are limited.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to driving in France .

Where to stay in Alsace – best hotels in Colmar and Strasbourg

For this road trip itinerary, I’d recommend splitting your time between Colmar and Strasbourg.

Stay in Colmar for at least 2-3 days to explore the southern parts of Alsace. James Boutique Hotel is a great option within walking distance of the historic center, perfect for exploring the city and quickly getting out to the countryside. For families and big groups, Suites Residences Spa has spacious and fully-equipped apartments. For a no-frills option a short drive from the city center, check out B&B Hotel Colmar Expo .

Stay in Strasbourg for at least 3 days to explore the city and the northern parts of Alsace. Hotel and Spa Le Bouclier d’Or is a gorgeous hotel right in the middle of Petite France, Strasbourg’s most picturesque district. For families and bigger groups, Le Moon at Place Kleber and La Residence de l’Orangerie in the quiet and residential European Quarter are great options.

Top tips for travel to Alsace

Languages spoken: French, German, English

Money: Euro (1 EUR ~ 1.10 USD) – You can pay at most shops, train stations, and hotels using a credit or debit card, but make sure to have cash with you. Some restaurants and shops will only take cash.

If you have a borderless card like  TransferWise or Revolut , you can withdraw from the French banks’ ATMs for free. Convert your currency to EUR on your app first, then withdraw easily and hassle-free.

Typical costs:

• Accommodations – A stay for two in a luxurious hotel in the historic center (like Cour de Corbeau ) can cost from EUR 240/night. A charming boutique hotel in a central location (like BOMA ) costs around EUR 120/night. You can also find budget apartment rentals (like Studio Proche Gare Et Petite France ) and stay for only EUR 70/night.
• Food – You can spend EUR 40 upwards for a nice dinner for two.
• Transportation – A rental car for 5 days (+ gas and tolls) can cost from EUR 300. You can check rental car prices for your travel dates. Make sure to get comprehensive rental car insurance .

Tipping: A service charge is usually added to the final bill and tipping is not expected, but a 10-15% tip for excellent service is appreciated.

Weather and best times to go: Alsace is gorgeous during the summer months (July, August) with flowers in full bloom and the perfect weather for walking and biking around. Autumn (October, November) is also a lovely time to visit – you can enjoy the beautiful fall colors, milder weather, and wine festivals and tastings throughout the countryside. During the Christmas season (December), Strasbourg dresses up as the “Capitale de Noël” with festive Christmas markets spread throughout the city and in the smaller towns.

Staying connected: You can get a pocket Wi-Fi device delivered to your hotel in France or anywhere in the EU.

Read more about Alsace

• Alsatian wines strike a balance of dry and sweet by Eric Asimov

An excellent overview of the qualities of Alsatian wine and why more people should know about it.

• Alsace wine tour: In search of the world’s greatest white wines by Nick Trend

A wine-centric tour of the region, this article offers suggestions on where to best pick up your wine and have a deeper understanding of the region’s produce.

If Alsace’s scenic roads and gorgeous landscapes got you excited for your next holidays in Europe, here are more amazing road trip destinations for you.

• Salzkammergut, Austria

Explore two of Austria’s beautiful cities – Salzburg and Vienna – by road tripping across the beautiful Salzkammergut region or Lake District. This is a great road trip itinerary if you love charming villages, gorgeous natural landscapes, and outdoor activities.

With breathtaking and diverse natural landscapes and smooth and efficient roads that bring you from the Alps to the countryside and the coasts in a few short hours, Slovenia is the perfect destination for a road trip.

• South Moravia, Czech Republic

Here’s another destination for lovers of nature, history, and gastronomy – the Czech Republic’s South Moravian wine region. You’ll find plenty of castle towns, forests, and vineyards to explore.

• Jungfrau, Switzerland

While parts of the Swiss Jungfrau region can be touristy, head to the quieter areas of Lauterbrunnen and Mürren to enjoy that traditional Swiss countryside ambiance. You’ll find plenty of hiking trails, stunning alpine views, and warm and welcoming chalets.

• More road trips in France

Here are more amazing road trips to take in France!

I hope this guide helps you plan your road trip to Alsace! I really enjoyed our holiday, and I highly recommend it to anyone who’s into wine regions, natural landscapes, and pretty storybook towns. You’ll also be treated to amazing gastronomy and friendly folks everywhere.

If you need more recommendations or extra help planning your trip, send me a message, and I’ll be happy to help you out. Thanks for reading and happy travels to France!

First published – 3 November 2017

Last updated – 12 June 2020 – updated information, fixed format for, added tips and information for easier travel-planning

Reader Interactions

March 19, 2018 at 1:20 am

hi i am Nisha from India. we are planning a road trip from Chamonix to Alsace through Swiss, what will be the requirements to pass through Swiss?

March 24, 2018 at 5:53 pm

Hi Nisha, you’ll have to ask the Swiss embassy in your country for that information. Good luck!

May 31, 2018 at 2:20 pm

What do you mean by the requirement to pass through by swiss?

July 19, 2018 at 12:02 pm

Such a helpful article! Thanks! We’ll be traveling with a toddler in sept; do you think it’s hard to get a table in Colmar for dinner if you go early? Also, when do most restaurants open? Thank you! ~ the FUNemployed family

July 19, 2018 at 4:36 pm

Hi Ben, I would recommend to still reserve a table even if you’re going for dinner early, but you can try! I think restaurants start serving dinner at around 6 or 7 pm. Have fun! 🙂

August 19, 2018 at 8:29 am

Great post, full of usefull information.

August 26, 2018 at 8:39 am

Thanks for reading, Jelena!

November 7, 2018 at 11:26 am

Hi, we are going to Strasbourg in January, and we are planning to make the Alsace wine route in a day with our rented car. Do you think we can make it in a day to end up in Colmar and go back to Strasbourg on the same day? Thanks Charlene

November 7, 2018 at 11:39 am

Hi Charlene, yes you can! It’s about an hour’s drive from Strasbourg to Colmar, then up to half an hour from Colmar to Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, and Riquewihr. It’s going to be a full day but it’s doable. You might have to forego the hikes though. Hope that helps!

July 1, 2019 at 7:37 pm

Where is that road at the start of the post? It looks amazing!

July 2, 2019 at 8:18 am

Thanks, Louise! I took that from the Grand Ballon! 🙂

June 8, 2022 at 9:59 am

Thanks for this post. We have – more or less – just made this trip. Started in “Colmar” (2 nights at Hotel “James Boutique”), visited “Eugisheim”, walked from “Kayserberg” through the vines to “Reichenweiler”, visited “Haut-Koenigsbourg” on the way to Strasbourg. Arrived in “Strasbourg” (2 nights at Hotel “Le Bouclier d’Or”) we did not visit any other places but explored the great city in beautiful weather. It was fantastic… thank you.

November 17, 2022 at 4:04 pm

Lovely to hear that, Sven! Your trip sounds fantastic. 🙂

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Alsace and Vosges

Alsace is a versatile destination in the north-east of France that charms motorhome lovers with its culture and gastronomy. This rich, lively and generous region stretches along the Rhine River and takes you past wine hills and cosy villages with the peaks of the Vosges Mountains in the background. On this road trip, we first visit the many vineyards and the excellent Alsatian wines. Then, we follow the Route des Crêtes that takes us past mountain villages and picturesque towns to the highest peaks of the Vosges Mountains. The distances are not that great, which gives you more time to explore, admire and taste everything from this beautiful region.

Total distance of the route: 357 km

Located in the heart of the Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park, the village of Lembach is ideal for starting this road trip. The Northern Vosges are less well known than the south of Alsace, but truly a paradise for those who travel by campervan, car or motorbike. The rural character gives you a lot of space and plenty of beautiful places that ask to be explored. This part of the Vosges is an area full of castles, with Fleckenstein Castle being the best preserved of the four ruins along the French-German border. Besides this castle, the impressive building Le Four à Chaux also deserves a visit. This defence line was built in the 1930s and is part of the Maginot Line. During a guided tour, you can walk through the underground corridors, the weapons depot and the doctor's block, among other things. Moreover, if you are in this region, you cannot miss the glass and crystal blowers. At the Centre International d'Art Verrier, you can watch glassblowers make real treasures the old-fashioned way in the workshop next to the museum. Besides the vast landscapes and culture, there are also a number of authentic villages near Lembach, such as Wissembourg and Hunspach, which bear witness to the region's medieval past and invite you to take a stroll.

After our stop in the Northern Vosges, we continue to Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace and also the European capital. Strasbourg is mainly known for the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights, but there are many other sights to see. The historic city centre, Grande Île, has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. During a walk along the narrow streets between the old half-timbered houses and medieval buildings, you will notice a clear mix of German and French architectural styles. This is because Strasbourg has been in German and French hands several times. The biggest eye-catcher is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg. With one of the highest church towers in the world, this cathedral is the symbol of the city. Apart from the impressive exterior, the interior with its stained-glass windows, the gigantic organ and the famous astronomical clock is also overwhelming. 

From Strasbourg to Colmar, you will find most of the Alsace vineyards. The diversity of the soil and the selection of the right grape varieties have led to the creation of the Grands Crus. Along this wine route, you will find numerous opportunities to have a drink.

On the wine route at the foot of the Vosges Mountains lies Obernai. This town owes its charm to the old city walls, the cosy market place and the traditional half-timbered houses. This makes Obernai the second most touristic city of Alsace, after Strasbourg. Between Obernai and our next stop, Ribeauvillé, there are three unmissable hotspots. The first is the pilgrimage site Mont-Sainte-Odile. A steep climb takes you up to 763 metres where you can find a parking space without too much trouble. On the hill, you can visit the Abbey of Hohenbourg, the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and, of course, the chapel dedicated to the holy healer Odile. You will also get an overwhelming view of the Alsatian plain. Afterwards, we continue to Mittelbergheim, one of the most beautiful French villages, which, with its off-white stone facades, is a typical wine village from the 17th and 18th centuries. Finally, we make a stop at Château Haut-Koenigsbourg where you have a sublime view of the plain. On a clear day, you can even see the Black Forest and the Alps.

Ribeauvillé

Ribeauvillé is also called the pearl of the vineyards. In Alsace, it is one of the villages that has managed to retain its authentic character. In the centre of the village, this is evident when you walk along the Grand'Rue or the main street. Here, you will see a succession of historical buildings such as the Tour des Bouchers and the Chiesa del convento. Nearby are also the ruins of three castles, namely Saint-Ulrich, Girsberg and Haut-Ribeaupierre, which belonged to the lords of Ribeaupierre. However, the many tourists do not only come to Ribeauvillé for the sights. It is mainly the wine that gives the village its attraction. The many wine estates and vineyards in the region give you the chance to taste Riesling, Pinot Gris or Gewürztraminer. A wine tasting is a must. Are you making this road trip in the high season? Then it is best to check in advance where the parking areas are, because it can be quite busy. After Ribeauvillé, the route to Colmar passes the picturesque villages of Hunawihr and Riquewihr.

Picturesque half-timbered houses, romantic canals, flower-decorated balconies and a maze of cobbled alleyways. Colmar is one of the most elegant cities of Alsace and is sometimes called the Venice of Alsace because of its many canals. Throughout the centuries, Colmar was able to escape major wars, which is why the centre is exceptionally well preserved. Stroll between the wooden medieval half-timbered houses and the beautiful Renaissance palaces. The Gothic church of Saint-Martin towers above the town and is a must-see. Inside, you can admire the unique Rococo organ and the late Gothic statue of the Last Supper. Another attraction in the centre is the Maison Pfister. This majestic house was built in an early German Renaissance style and has a spectacular spiral staircase and many beautiful 16th century frescos. Finally, stop by the Koïfhus and the Place de l'Ancienne Douane during your walk through the town.

La Petite Venise is located in the southern part of Colmar. In this tourist district, half-timbered houses from the 15th and 16th centuries flaunt themselves at the edge of a canal. Between the colourful houses, you can take a rest at one of the many cosy terraces.

Just south of Colmar, completely surrounded by vineyards, lies the village of Eguisheim. This is where the Eichberg and Pfersigberg are grown, which according to connoisseurs are the two best wines of Alsace. As you approach the village, you will soon notice that it is built completely in circles around the castle of Saint-Léon-Pfalz from the 13th century. A unique way to experience the village is to walk along the Rue des Remparts which goes all the way round. Get out your camera, because it is a really photogenic street. The half-timbered houses are close together and the inhabitants have decorated their houses with flowers. The village was voted their favourite by the French in 2013 for a reason. Then head towards the centre where you will find a small chapel on the spot where the castle once stood. The altar, ceiling and walls are covered in colourful paintings. From the town, you can also see the three castles of Eguisheim. Nowadays, Eguisheim is mainly known as a wine town with numerous wine cellars. You have not yet done a wine tasting? Then this is the perfect opportunity.

Route des Crêtes

From Eguisheim, we drive in the direction of Le Bonhomme, where we take the Route des Crêtes at the Col du Bonhomme. The Route des Crêtes leads you along the most beautiful and highest peaks of the Vosges. After more than 10 km, we arrive at Gazon du Faing, one of the first beautiful viewpoints. From the cliffs, you look out over the Rhine plain and Alsace. We then continue to Hohneck, the third highest peak in the Vosges. On the way, we pass the Col de la Schlucht and the occasional mountain lake adorns the landscape. From Hohneck, our camper-van route continues in the direction of le Markstein with, once again, a magnificent view. This time on the Alsace and the Swiss Alps. On to le Grand Ballon! With 1424 metres, this is the highest peak in the Vosges. On a clear day, you have a fantastic view of Alsace, the Black Forest and sometimes even the Alps.

La Bresse is a small mountain village at the foot of the Hohneck. If you have not yet driven up this giant along the Route des Crêtes, then this village is the perfect starting point for a hiking or cycling tour to the top. La Bresse is mainly known as the largest and best-equipped ski resort in the Vosges, but in the other seasons it is also a nice stopover. The village is the ideal starting point for hiking, cycling or mountain biking. Water lovers can make a trip to Lac des Corbeaux, where you can swim in the middle of nature. Surrounded by a beautiful pine forest, it is also the ideal place to cool down on a hot summer day. For the good walkers, this trip cannot miss the tough climb to the viewpoint La Roche du Lac. If you like an adventure in the mountains, you can choose a climbing course, canyoning or a via ferrata in La Bresse under the guidance of Verticales Vosges. This experience gives you the chance to explore the Vosges Mountains in a different way.

The municipality of Gérardmer is a popular base for exploring the mountain peaks of the Great Vosges. Close to the centre is the largest natural lake in the Vosges, Lac de Gérardmer. This glacial lake lies at an altitude of 660 metres and is a pleasant place to be. In winter, the frozen lake is a magnificent spectacle that can be admired from the ski slopes of the resort. In the summer, there are numerous possibilities on and around the lake. You can canoe, sail, row, pedal boat, swim and fish. After a long day in the camper van, car or on the motorbike, you can also just pick a spot on the surrounding beaches and enjoy the sun. In the many restaurants and cafés, you can enjoy an evening meal with a view of the green hills and the lake. We recommend climbing the 85 steps of the Tour de Mérelle viewpoint. The wooden tower is no less than 17 m high and gives you a panoramic view of the lake, the village and the ski area. The walk to it takes you through the forest, along rocky paths and past small waterfalls.

On this road trip through Alsace and the Vosges, the capital of the Vosges cannot be missed. Épinal is the most wooded town in France and is located on the right bank of a valley, at the foot of several medieval castle ruins. A visit to the ruins of the Château d'Épinal, dating from the 13th century, will give you a good view of the rest of the town. In the old town, a walk will take you almost automatically to the central square, Place des Vosges. This charming square is surrounded by Renaissance houses with typical arches and the Basilique Saint-Maurice as eye-catcher. While exploring the city, do not miss the Chapitre district, with its many coloured houses. 

Épinal is known for its world-famous children's prints, les images d'Épinal. These coloured folk prints depict nationalistic scenes and were once used as wall decoration. Today, you can see the large collection in the Musée de l'Image. Besides culture and sights, the city also has many parks and gardens, such as the rose garden of the Roman House and the large botanical garden of trees, which is nice to stroll through. Thus, in the heart of the Vosges Mountains, this road trip through the vineyards of Alsace and the peaks of the Vosges Mountains comes to an end.

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Alsace Wine Route by Car – Itinerary & Map

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Follow the Wine Route – Alsace’s Best Road Trip

The Alsace Wine Route (Route du Vin Alsace), in Eastern France , is one of the best things to do in Alsace . One of the most famous wine trails in France, this Wine Route Alsace between Colmar and Strasbourg invites visitors to discover beautiful landscapes and lovely Alsace villages while tasting some of the region’s best wines.

The proposed Alsace Wine Route itinerary by car takes five days, and it is a good itinerary for those who love sightseeing, outdoor activities, and wine.

This Alsace Wine Route by car is one of the best road trips in France . Read more about road-tripping in France:

Alsace Wine Region

The Alsace Wine Region produces dry white wines, sparkling sweet varieties, and rosés. Just like in Southern Germany, you can find delicious Rieslings , Gewurztraminers, and Pinot Gris in Alsace. There are also wines made from the Pinot Noir grape – which are pale reds, often rosés. Sparkling wines, known as Crémant d’Alsace, are also made of Pinot Noir.

The Alsace wines are aromatic, floral, and spicy. Since they seldom have any oak barrel aroma, they tend to be very varietally pure in their character.

READ MORE: Best Wine Regions in France

Unlike in the Bordeaux Wine Region, wine producers in Alsace open their wineries to visitors during the harvest, from September to November, and most other times of the year (including weekends). Usually, wine producers in Alsace speak French, German, and English, and chatting with them while tasting their wines is a good opportunity to learn more about Alsace’s wines.

TIP: If you plan to bring a few bottles home (who could resist?!), make sure you pack your wine properly , so it arrives safely home!

Alsace Wine Route by Car Overview

• Start:  Colmar
• Finish:  Strasbourg
• Duration:  5 days
• Suggested route:  Colmar – Riquewihr – Obernai – Strasbourg
• Total distance:  104.5 Km, 1 hr 30 min drive in total
• Region covered:  Grand Est
• Best for:  history, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food & wine.

Alsace Wine Route Map

Click here to view this Alsace Wine Route Map on Google

Route du Vin – Alsace Wine Route Itinerary

This Alsace Wine Route by car starts from Colmar , one of the main cities in the Alsace Region . If you don’t have a car, you can travel to Colmar by train and then rent one in Colmar. The chances are that car rental in Colmar is cheaper than in Paris, plus you avoid the hassle of driving from Paris or any other city to the east. Check out our  best tips for hiring a car in France .

Click here to rent a car in Colmar

DAY 0 | Arrival in Colmar

Arrive in Colmar the day before the start of this Alsatian wine route. For your stay in Colmar, book three nights at the charming Hotel Le Colombier . This hotel, located in the picturesque district of Little Venice, has spacious and stylish rooms, a bar, and a garden in which to relax.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Le Colombier

DAY 1 | Colmar

Colmar is the most popular city to visit on this Alsace wine trail. The Old Town of Colmar is the city’s main highlight, with half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, and quaint canals.

A signposted walking trail leads visitors in a 6.1km loop around the city (estimated time: 2.5 hrs). The route is outlined on the free Colmar Old Town Map from the tourist office, but you can just follow the golden triangles along the way (embossed with Lady Liberty) to the top Colmar sights.

The list of fun things to see and do in Colmar includes:

• The Unterlinden Museum
• The Bartholdi Museum
• The Little Venice
• The Food Market (consider having lunch inside for a super local experience)
• The Toy Museum
• The Choco-Story Colmar

FUN FACT: Artist  Auguste Bartholdi  – The man who created the Statue of Liberty – was born in Colmar in 1834. As a Colmar claim-to-fame, Lady Liberty appears throughout the city, and you will find a replica of the famous statue in a roundabout.

DAY 2 | Colmar – Eiguisheim – Colmar

Morning in Eguisheim

From Colmar, consider a day trip to Eguisheim and its surrounding vineyards. Eguisheim is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France , and it is a wonder. Located at only a 10-minute drive from Colmar, Eguisheim is one of the most popular day trips from Colmar .

Eguisheim  has a unique layout, where the streets are arranged in concentric circles around the Eguisheim Castle. Don’t miss its beautiful architecture of half-timbered houses and the central square with its magnificent stone fountain and the colorful Saint Léo Chapel.

Obviously, one of the best things to do in Eiguisheim is to visit one of the many cellars in the Old Town . Testing, tasting, and refining your knowledge are all activities around Oenology that await you in Eiguisheim. Learn more about the local grape varieties and the wines’ subtleties. After some research, we recommend the wines from Eichberg and Pfersigberg , which reveal aromas of fruit, honey, and wood.

Afternoon Hike Up to the Three Towers

From Eguisheim, there’s a beautiful and easy hike through the vineyards and the forest up to the Three Castles  on Schlossberg Hill (1.5 hr uphill). The Three Castles were built during the 11th and 12th centuries by three local families. Today, all three castles are in ruins (they were destroyed in 1466 during the War of the Six Oboles), but the views from the top of the hill are great.

DAY 3 | Kaysersberg – Riquewihr

Morning in Kaysersberg

Day 3 of this Alsatian wine route explores two of the prettiest villages in Alsace. From Colmar, drive to  Kaysersberg Vignoble , a small town nestled at the entrance of the Vosges Valley. Kaysersberg means “the Emperor’s mountain,” and the ruins of the imperial castle (13th-century) that dominate the city have an incredible charm.

You are going to love Kaysersberg , with its beautiful historic center and its many half-timbered houses from the 15th – 16th centuries. There is also a unique fortified bridge, which was built in the 16th century in pink sandstone from the Vosges.

GOOD TO KNOW: Alsace is the region in France with more fortified castles! Their distinctive pink color is from the Vosges sandstone used to build them.

Afternoon in Riquewihr

From Kaysersberg, drive to the picturesque town of  Riquewihr, where you will spend one night. For your stay in Riquewihr, book the oh-so-charming  Hotel à l’Oriel , located in the heart of the Old Town. The historic hotel proposes individually decorated beautiful traditional rooms, a good breakfast, and private parking.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel à l’Oriel

You will likely fall in love with Riquewihr . This fortified village surrounded by vineyards was built in the 16th century, and it is as if time has slowed down in this town. Riquewihr is another Alsace village listed among the  Most Beautiful Villages in France . 

Apart from its beautiful half-timbered houses and picturesque alleys, Riquewihr has no less than 40 listed Historical Monuments. The Thieves’ Tower is the most famous, and it was the former prison of Riquewihr.

At the entrance of Riquewihr, you will find several wine producers offering wine tastings and their best bottles of Alsace wine. We bought a couple of bottles of muscat and crémant at Domaine Dopff au Moulin (2 Avenue Jacques Preiss, Riquewihr). Then, within the walls, you will find many wine shops.

DAY 4 | Riquewihr – Obernai – Strasbourg

Day 4 of this Alsace Wine Route itinerary starts with a morning hike. Beyond the limits of Riquewihr lies a stunning horizon filled with vineyards growing between the hills. This is the starting point of the  Géovino Trail , which goes through the Alsace vineyards of the communal territories of Riquewihr, Beblenheim, Benwihr, Hunawihr, and Zellenberg. This rural 16km trail (which takes 4.5 hours for the full loop) includes information panels about the works in the vineyards and wine production.

We recommend doing the first part of the hike to the pretty village of Hunawihr and back (6km, 1 hr 15 min). Hunawihr is another of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, and it is best known for its unique fortified church, which is a wonder!

In Hunawihr, Domaine François Schwach operates different wine tours. The Introduction to the Alsace Wines and the Crémant Experience are their most interesting tours (book in advance).

Afternoon in Obernai

On the way to Strasbourg, visit Obernai , a small city well-known for its historical monuments. Between mid-November to the end of December, Obernai also hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Alsace .

Admire the Place du Marché, with the imposing belfry, the Wheat Market, and the beautiful 16th-century well. Then, stroll through the picturesque Rue des Juifs.

After visiting Obernai, drive to Strasbourg , the last stop of this Alsace wine trail. Technically speaking, Strasbourg is not part of the Alsace Wine Trail, but the city is so beautiful that it is well worth the detour!

In Strasbourg, book two nights at the  Hotel Cathédrale , located just opposite Notre Dame de Strasbourg ,  and with incredible and spectacular views over the cathedral.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Cathédrale

DAY 5 | Strasbourg

Day 5 of this Route du Vin Alsace explores Strasbourg, so you won’t need the car. 

Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace and the Grand Est region . Because of its history and central location, Strasbourg plays host to more than 20 European institutions.

Strasbourg has an immense historical and architectural heritage, making it the wealthiest city in the region. Developed on the River Ill banks, its city center is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

If you are visiting Strasbourg for the first time, we recommend this  Strasbourg itinerary for 2 days ,  which covers the main things to do in Strasbourg and our best tips.

The list of fun things to do and see in Strasbourg includes:

• Notre Dame Cathedral
• The Petite-France, a picturesque district
• The covered bridges and the barrage Vauban
• Strasbourg river cruise
• History Museum
• The European neighborhood

Don’t miss Notre Dame of Strasbourg , a jewel of Gothic architecture. If the weather is good, climb up to the top of the tower to admire the city from above. During clear days it is possible to see the Black Forest in Germany!

And why not finish this Alsace Wine Route with a last wine tour? Don’t miss the prestigious Cave des Hospices de Strasbourg , the historic cellar of the Strasbourg Hospital, 6 centuries old! Although there’s a free visit possible, we recommend the audio-guided tour, as this is a place full of history and magic. No wine-tasting here (after all, this is part of a hospital), but we are sure you’ll find something-something to bring back home in their wine shop.

So, what are you waiting for? Book this Alsace Wine Route by car today!

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Alsace itinerary: Strasbourg, Colmar and the Incredible Route des Vins

Hi France Travel Planners! An Alsace itinerary, including the charming destinations of Strasbourg, Colmar and the Route des Vins, makes a wonderful side trip from Paris, or stop off on the way from France to Switzerland or Germany. While you can visit Alsace as a day trip from Paris , a 3 night Alsace visit allows you time to stay in Colmar or Strasbourg, visiting both, and also touring the Route des Vins. Alsace is a magical regional of France you shouldn’t miss.

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Colmar vs Strasbourg: where is the best place to stay in Alsace?

Most Alsace visitors will stay in either Strasbourg or Colmar, and it’s a matter of personal preference and your overall itinerary where you should choose. Strasbourg is a city of approximately 250 000 people, whereas Colmar is a town of 30 000. Train connections are better in Strasbourg, making it perhaps more convenient for those travelling on into Switzerland or Germany. If you have a car, you will find parking far more convenient and plentiful in Colmar. In my France Travel Planning Facebook group (you can join here if you aren’t a member ) opinions are divided, with both places having their fans.

Whether you travel from Strasbourg to Colmar, or Colmar to Strasbourg doesn’t matter.

3 night Alsace itinerary

I have two variations for my 3 night Alsace itinerary, depending on whether your stay in Colmar or Strasbourg. Whether you choose to stay in Colmar or choose to stay in Strasbourg is a matter of personal preference. If you are planning on getting a car, the carparking is much easier in Colmar. We elected to stay in Colmar because we prefer smaller towns. Staying in Colmar, we structured our Alsace itinerary like this:

Day 1: travel from Paris. Arrive Colmar. Colmar siteseeing

Day 2: day trip to Strasbourg from Colmar

Day 3: Route des Vins tour

Day 4: Colmar siteseeing in the morning. Early afternoon departure from Colmar.

If you elect to stay in Strasbourg, your itinerary would work like this:

Day 1: arrive Strasbourg. Strasbourg siteseeing

Day 2: day trip to Colmar from Strasbourg

Day 4: Strasbourg siteseeing in the morning. Afternoon departure from Strasbourg.

On either Alsace itinerary days 2 and 3 are inter changeable.

Things to see in Colmar

While it may be small (it’s population is only around 30 000) there are lots of things to do in Colmar.

The old town is largely pedestrianised so it is a wonderful area just to wander around and enjoy the typical colourful Alsatian architecture. As we often do, Mr FTP and I started our Colmar walk with the Rick Steves self guided walk.

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Because the weather was so lovely we decided to pass on the Underlinden Museum, although I understand it holds an interesting collection that covers exhibits from Roman Colmar through to folk art and costumes. It also houses Monet and Renoir pieces.

On our walk we particularly enjoyed a visit to the Church of St Martin and the excellent covered market. The market is a great place to buy local wine and bretzels. We stopped by most afternoons for a couple of bretzels and some local strawberries for an afternoon snack. We may have also bought some local Reisling……..

The real star of the show in Colmar is the quaint, colourful Petite Venise. With its half timber buildings in a rainbow of pastel colours, to the riotous flowers it really is easy to see why it is the most popular place to visit in Colmar. The actual canal itself is quite short, but it is possible to take a short ride on the canal to enjoy the town from a different perspective.

The best view of the canal to take your quintessential Alsace photo is from the Pont de Fanny on rue Turenne. Go early or late to avoid the crowds.

If you like to take walking tours, it is possible to book a Colmar walking tour. You can book yours here >>

In addition to the Medieval centre, the 19th century area between the old town and the railway station is a pretty area too. Most of the old mansions are now offices, but to me the star of this area is the park on the rue de Mulhouse. It was a lovely spot for a shady sit to enjoy a picnic lunch.

You can find other Colmar activities here:

A Colmar to Strasbourg day trip by train

Strasbourg is a very easy day trip from Colmar by train. There is no need to book a seat in advance, and even on the weekend, trains are frequent. The train takes approximately 30 minutes on the local TER train.

Most people who visit Strasbourg want to see the famous old town with its iconic Cathedral. It is approximately 15 minutes walk to the Cathedral from Strasbourg train station. The Cathedral is very popular with a queue to enter. It closes for lunch whether there’s a queue or not, so you need to plan your visit accordingly. The Place de la Cathedrale is pretty crowded with both locals and tourists, so watch your bags, phones, cameras etc pickpockets – particularly around the many buskers who work the square.

The Cathedrale de Notre Dame is probably one of the most famous buildings in France, and visiting it for the first time it was easy to see why. Genuinely imposing from the outside (it’s very tall and the pink hued stone is quite distinctive) it is quite breathtaking inside.

Despite the lengthy queue to enter, once inside, the Strasbourg Cathedral is airy and tranquil. The stained glass windows are lovely, including the wonderful rose window.

Even more impressively, 80% of the stained glass in the Cathedral is original.

The other reason to visit the Strasbourg Cathedral is to see the astonomical clock – a remarkable feat of engineering that dates from the 16th century. Every 15mins the bell stikes and there is a little moving display. It’s an interesting and fun thing to watch.

From the Cathedral continue your Strasbourg walk out of the Place de la Cathedrale via rue Maroquin until you reach the river. From there, it’s a pretty and very easy walk along the river to Petite France the Strasbourg medieval town with more of those gorgeous Alsace half timber buildings. If you are looking for a lunch spot, the Place Benjamin Vix is pretty and popular if you can get a table.

Route du Vins day trip from Colmar

Because we didn’t have a car, Mr FTP and I decided to take a tour of the Route du Vins. Guided tours from Colmar to the Route du Vins are either half or full day, with most half day tours offering morning or afternoon departures. After hours of research we opted for this small group full day tour of the Route des Vins:

Book full day small group tour Colmar to the Route du Vins >>

I must say we loved our tour. We met our guide Ana and the other four guests on our tour bright and early right outside our hotel (a sheer coincidence). Our vehicle for the day was a supremely comfortable Mercedes van which gave us a wonderful view of the scenery.

Our first stop on our Route du Vins small group tour was Hunawihr. Hunawihr is very quiet from a tourist point of view and indeed I think we were the only tourists in the town on Sunday morning. Hunawihr doesn’t have any of the showstopping architecture of some of the more visited villages but is a village where you can get up close to the grapevines.

Ana stopped the van at the bottom of a hill among the vines. We were able to walk through the vines and see the grapes growing up close. At the top of the hill was an old church – from there we had a wonderful view of the village and surrounding countryside.

Next up on our village tour was the popular Riquewihr. As we arrived we could see the locals setting up for a special community Sunday lunch for a local celebration. Riquewihr is a very picturesque Alsace village, and even just after 10am the main street was quite busy. Despite that we spent an enjoyable time wandering around the old village wall, the quaint squares and back streets, and to try some of the local delicacy – a macaroon – not to be confused with the popular macaron.

One of the highlights of our Route du Vins day trip was a visit to the picture perfect Eguisheim. However, I do feel a bit sorry for Eguisheim and its inhabitants. Eguisheim was completely off the map on the Route des Vins until it won the crown as the most beautiful village in France in 2013. While it has brought prosperity to the village it was obvious a number of its inhabitants are not happy.

With a preponderance of Airbnbs and day trippers, Eguisheim is now a popular village on the Route des Vins and with that brings noise and mess. A number of houses had signs out the front asking people to be quiet, to not take photos of the house, to not peer into the house or pose for selfies on the front door step. It beggars belief, but it obviously happens.

Visiting Alsace in June we had seen numerous storks and their nests, but in Eguisheim they were everywhere. So much so, we started to get a bit picky and blasé about which ones to “bother” to photograph.

After Eguisheim we stopped for lunch (not included) at a local restaurant in Turckheim. Ana had booked a table for us and we were thrilled to be offered a table in the shade out on the terrace. It looked as though we were the only tourists, joining groups of local families, friends, kids and dogs out for Sunday lunch.

Next up was one of the stars of our trip to the Route des Vins – Haute Konigsbourg Castle. Standing on a rocky outcrop, the Castle is visible from the train from Strasbourg to Colmar. While the original Castle was started in 1147 what you see now was restored in the early 20th century.

As you walk around the Castle the German influence in Alsace is keenly identifiable. The other winner of this Castle is the fabulous views out over the Vosges valley from almost every turn. Haute Konigsbourg is also one of the best things to do in Alsace with kids where they can really channel their inner Medieval knight.

If you choose to visit Haute Konigsbourg by car be patient looking for a parking spot. The traffic was truly terrible and the parking almost nonexistent.

One of the things we were looking forward to on our tour was a wine tasting of local Alsace wines. We were not disappointed. Alsace wines are mainly white, although a light red made with pinot noir grapes is also common, along with a sparkling. We tasted a number of wines, all available for purchase. If you are looking to buy wine in Alsace, almost all the wineries offer tastings and cellar door sales. Unlike Burgundy or Bordeaux, prices are very reasonable and many remain family owned and operated.

Before heading back to Colmar we stopped in pretty Kayserbourg famous for being the birthplace of Albert Sweitzer.

You can find a range of quality group and private tours of the Route du Vins here > >

Our 3 day Alsace itinerary at a glance

We travelled to Colmar from Paris by train. It’s around 2 and half hours from the Gare de L’Est. You can book your train ticket here >>

We stayed at the Hotel Le Colombier which we found to be ideally located in Colmar. If it is within your budget it is worth trying to book room 62 which had a lovely private terrace and access to a shared garden overlooking the canal. Book the Hotel Le Colombier here >>

Our small group tour to the Route des Vins was The Emblematic: visit of villages, Haut-Koenigsbourg, Wine tasting which we booked through Viator. You can find out more about this tour here >>

We visited Alsace in June, when the weather was warm and sunny. If you are visiting Alsace in winter for the famous Alsace Christmas markets you will need a full European winter packing list.

Planning tools for your Alsace itinerary

Regardless of whether you are planning on getting a car in Alsace, both Strasbourg and Colmar are so well connected to French, German and Swiss destinations it is worth taking the train and picking up a car once you arrive.

To book train tickets to Alsace I recommend Trainline. Search for your Alsace train tickets here >>

If you are planning on getting a car there are many options, so research is essential. Search for rental cars here >>

Where to stay in Colmar:

Where to stay in Strasbourg:

If you prefer self catering accommodation I recommend Plum Guide for high quality options that won’t let you down. You can find Alsace apartments and houses here >>

If you are arriving early and your apartment is not available a bag drop service is a cheap and effective way to store your luggage safely. Book your luggage storage in Alsace here >>

Research and book guided tours here >>

Those of you who are interested in private tours in Alsace should check out the options on Tours by Locals, who allow you to choose your own Alsace private guide and customise your own itinerary. Find your private guide here >>

A good guide book is essential regardless of the length of your Alsace itinerary. You can check out a range of French guidebooks here >>

If you are visiting for the Colmar Christmas market, or the famous Strasbourg Christmas market, book well in advance and get up to date information from the Office de Tourisme Alsace . There is also a hop on hop off bus that operates in the Route du Vins. You can get info on this from the local tourism office too.

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Et si on voyageait longtemps ?

Faire un road trip en Alsace, 2 semaines du Sud au Nord

Accueil » Destination Europe » France » Alsace » Faire un road trip en Alsace, 2 semaines du Sud au Nord

Les voyageurs ne connaissent jamais bien leur propre région ou leur propre pays. Et c’est bien vrai ! Quand nous avons démarré notre road trip en Alsace , nous ne suspections pas autant de paysages et de lieux incroyables à quelques kilomètres de chez nous ! Après vous avoir fait découvrir notre road trip alsacien en vidéo , il nous semblait important de vous en donner les détails dans un article. Cependant, notez qu’il y a encore énormément de lieux à découvrir en Alsace que je n’aborde pas dans cet article. Je pense notamment aux autres vallées incroyables dans la région, aux nombreux magnifiques villages alsaciens, au monument du Galz et aux cascades incroyables. J’espère qu’il saura néanmoins inspirer votre prochain voyage en Alsace !

Pour accéder directement à une partie de cet article sur le road trip en Alsace , cliquez sur le sujet ci-dessous :

• La Vallée de la Thur
• Les villages alsaciens autour de Colmar
• La Vallée de Munster
• Neufbrisach
• Les châteaux alsaciens entre Colmar et Strasbourg
• Le Mont-Saint-Odile
• Le temple du Donon
• Les Maisons troglodytes de Graufthal
• La Petite-Pierre
• Le Pays de Bitche (Moselle)
• Le Colorado alsacien (Moselle)
• Le budget d’un road trip en Alsace ?

Pour information, le road trip en Alsace que je vous propose démarre du Sud et se termine à Strasbourg avant de remonter jusqu’en Moselle . Il vous suffit de suivre l’article dans l’ordre pour organiser votre itinéraire.

1/ Le Sundgau pendant une journée

Le Sundgau est un territoire  logé au Sud de l’Alsace. Il est considéré comme la Petite-Suisse  alsacienne ou encore le Jura alsacien . Les locaux sont essentiellement ruraux et il n’y a pas de grands axes routiers. C’est pourquoi le Sundgau est resté une partie de l’Alsace authentique qu’il faut absolument découvrir !

Parmi les lieux que nous vous conseillons de découvrir dans le Sundgau, il y a :

• Le village de Ferrette , son château du Moyen-Âge et la Grotte des nains ,
• Le château du Morimont ,
• Les châteaux de Leymen ( Waldeck et Landskron )

Vous trouverez d’autres sites touristiques incroyables sur leur site internet en consultant leur carte interactive du Sundgau .

Enfin, sachez que cette région de l’Alsace a sa spécialité culinaire appelée,  la carpe-frite ! 

2/ La Vallée de la Thur en deux jours

Je vous avais déjà parlé de la Vallée de la Thur dans un précédent article que je vous invite à découvrir. Cette vallée au sud de l’Alsace est également, la porte d’entrée des Vosges . C’est ici que vous allez prendre de la hauteur et admirer la plaine d’Alsace d’en haut depuis le Markstein et la Route des Crêtes !

3/ Visiter Colmar en un jour

Colmar est mondialement connue pour ses marchés de Noël. Cependant, il n’y a pas qu’en hiver que cette ville alsacienne est intéressante. Voici quelques informations à prendre en compte si vous décidez de découvrir Colmar lors d’un road trip en Alsace .

1 - Où se garer à Colmar ?

Pour vous garer à Colmar, je ne peux que vous conseiller le parking de l’université . Celui-ci se trouve à quelques minutes à pieds du centre historique et il est, en plus, gratuit. Cependant, il n’est pas possible de dormir dans la ville avec votre véhicule et je ne vous conseillerai d’ailleurs pas de le faire. Pour trouver un spot sympa pour la nuit, rien de tel que d’utiliser l’application Park4Night !

2 - Quoi visiter à Colmar ?

Il y a de nombreux lieux intéressants à visiter à Colmar . Si vous avez peu de temps, je ne peux que vous recommander Hopla’Guide . Un jeune couple de voyageurs mis en place une façon ludique de visiter Colmar et Strasbourg avec une application mobile et 6 surprises à sortir d’un sac à dos ! En plus de découvrir chaque recoin de la ville, vous apprendrez pleins de choses secrètes à votre rythme et repartirez avec pleins de cadeaux locaux . 

Dans tous les cas, voici la liste des sites les plus connus à découvrir à Colmar :

• La Petite Venise de Colmar ,
• Le Quartier des Tanneurs ,
• Le Quai de la Poissonnerie ,
• La Maison des Têtes , 
• La Maison Pfister,
• Le Marché couvert,
• L’Eglise des Dominicains,
• Les Musées,
• La Statue de la Liberté.

4/ Les villages alsaciens de la route des vins autour de Colmar en deux jours

L’Alsace est connue pour ces petits villages colorés et à colombage . Parmi les plus célèbres, on note :

• Kaysersberg et son château,
• Mittelwihr,
• Riquewihr ,
• Ribeauvillé et ses châteaux.

Notre préféré n’est autre que Riquewihr qui a souvent été choisi comme décors de cinéma tant il est plein de charme ! Pendant la visite de ces villages ne manquez pas la dégustation dans les caves à vin ainsi qu’une petite balade dans les vignes.

Il y a une information importante à prendre en compte si vous visitez ces villages, c’est la place pour s’y garer. Il y a énormément de personnes qui viennent du monde entier pour les découvrir et il s’agit de tous petits villages. Donc comprenez qu’il n’y ait pas beaucoup de places de parking et que la plupart sont donc payantes et chers pour décourager les gens à y rester trop longtemps et permettre à d’autres de venir. Donc soyez compréhensifs à ce niveau-là. Sinon, préférez le vélo . J’ai rédigé un article à ce sujet justement. Le vélo est le meilleur moyen de découvrir les villages alsaciens de la route des vins !

5/ La Vallée de Munster en une journée

Nous n’en avions pas parlé dans notre vidéo sur le road trip en Alsace, mais la vallée de Munster est vraiment à découvrir . Comme son nom l’indique, c’est de là que vient le fromage alsacien et c’est aussi là que se trouvent les plus belles auberges alsaciennes ! Perdez-vous dans ces pâturages pour y découvrir les agriculteurs et pour goûter les produits laitiers alsaciens . Car oui, il n’y a pas que le Munster en Alsace. Il y a aussi le  Bibalakass et la tome alsacienne !

Et puis, Munster, c’est vraiment une petite ville sympathique au coeur d’une jolie vallée. C’est aussi le point de départ pour rejoindre le sommet du Hohneck où randonner. Donc vous ne ferez, je vous assure, aucun détour !

6/ Neufbrisach et alentours en une journée

Continuez votre road trip en Alsace en découvrant la célèbre ville alsacienne fortifiée par Vauban  ! Je ne me répèterai jamais assez dans mes posts et articles, mais je suis une passionnée par Vauban. Savoir qu’il a édifié pendant sa courte vie plus de 150 places fortes en France est juste incroyable ! 

Il y a une ville proche de Colmar qui est tranquille et que Vauban a façonné, c’est Neufbrisach . Il n’y a pas vraiment grand chose à voir dans cette petite ville, mais il est intéressant de découvrir cette place forte située à la frontière allemande et qui a été construite en forme d’étoile, sans jamais s’étendre au-delà des remparts.

D’ailleurs elle est située à quelques minutes à vélo de l’île du Rhin ! Une petite île située entre l’Allemagne et la France qu’il est possible d’aller voir depuis un pont. C’est un lieu culte des colmariens qui y vont les weekends pour s’y baigner ! Alors, si vous souhaitez vous-aussi vous rafraîchir, faites trempette !

7/ Les châteaux alsaciens entre Colmar et Strasbourg en deux jours

Lors de votre road trip en Alsace, vous vous apercevrez que la région est assez plate et qu’en la traversant, vous longerez les chaînes vosgienne s. En y regardant de plus près, vous vous apercevrez également qu’il y a des dizaines de châteaux du Moyen-Âge positionnés sur des sommets. L’Alsace est considérée comme la région de France comprenant le plus de châteaux du Moyen-Âge (une centaine !) ! Et en Alsace, ces lieux sont préservés et respectés. Il est possible de les découvrir librement et gratuitement pendant une randonnée. 

Le plus célèbre qui a été entièrement restauré est le château du Haut-Koenigsbourg et il est, d’ailleurs payant (forcément !). Cependant, il est intéressant de le découvrir étant donné qu’il ne s’agit plus d’une ruine et qu’il vous permettra de comprendre la vie moyenâgeuse dans la région  en plus d’avoir une vue juste impressionnante sur l’Alsace.

Enfin, parmi nos châteaux préférés, je vous conseille de découvrir en randonnée (du sud au nord) :

• les Trois châteaux à Husseren (15mn de marche depuis le parking),
• le château de Kaysersberg (15mn de marche depuis la ville),
• les châteaux de Ribeauvillé (3h de marche A/R depuis le village),
• l’ Ortenbourg et le Ramstein à Scherwiller (3h de marche A/R depuis le village),
• Château du Haut-Andlau (2h de marche A/R depuis le village),
• Château du Haut-barr (5mn de marche depuis le parking).

La plupart de ces châteaux seront à intégrer dans votre itinéraire car vous verrez qu’il y a d’autres sites à découvrir sur votre parcours : le Mont-Saint-Odile et le Temple du Donon.

8/ Le Mont Saint-Odile en une journée

Si vous aimez les points de vu et les l ieux surprenants , il faut vous rendre au Mont-Saint-Odile . Ce lieu de pèlerinage est également un lieu considéré comme vibratoire. Il y aurait de bonnes énergies et de nombreuses personnes y viennent pour prier, se ressourcer et se soigner via une eau dite miraculeuse . 

Mais le Mont-Saint-Odile, c’est aussi un mur païen de plusieurs dizaines de kilomètres caché dans la forêt, un sommet comprenant 4 châteaux du moyen-âge et le lieu du crash aérien de 1994 . Alors oui, ce lieu mystique méconnu et pourtant si important au fil des siècles doit faire parti de votre road trip en Alsace !

9/ Le temple du Donon en une journée

Encore un lieu insolite à découvrir en Alsace , le  Temple du Donon ! Imaginez un temple romain érigé sur un sommet vosgien et comprenant plusieurs autres vestiges romains… Ce temple est incroyablement bien conservé et n’est accessible que via une randonnée d’environ une heure. Il vous permettra entre autre de comprendre l’origine des Vosges et de vous plonger, cette fois-ci, à une autre époque !

Attention cependant à ne pas y aller les weekends et pendant les vacances scolaires . Le lieu commence à devenir populaire et on nous a rapportés qu’il peut y avoir des centaines de personnes sur le site. 

10/ Les maisons troglodytes de Graufthal en une demi-journée

Qui a dit que l’Alsace ce n’était que des petites maisons à colombages ? À Graufthal , il y a quelques maisons incroyables qui ont été construites dans la roche pendant le Moyen-Âge.  Elles ont été habitées jusqu’en 1958. Désormais, le site est devenu un éco-musée qui permet aux visiteurs de découvrir les légendes qui s’y rattachent au fil des époques.

11/ La Petite-Pierre en une demi-journée

La Petite-Pierre est une petite-ville située dans le Parc Naturel Régional des Vosges du Nord . Elle est nichée dans un écrin de verdure magnifique et préservé. En plus d’être authentique, ce village ne ressemble en rien à ce que vous avez pu voir en Alsace. La ville fortifiée domine les bois et propose la visite d’un château, de fortifications, de musées et des animations médiévales. Il s’agit d’une superbe étape avant de rejoindre le Pays de Bitche et de quitter l’Alsace ! Eh oui ! Vous êtes à une heure en voiture d’un lieu incroyable qu’il serait dommage de ne pas visiter même si ce n’est pas en Alsace !

12/ Le Pays de Bitche (Moselle) en une journée

Le Pays de Bitche est magnifique ! Vous y découvrirez une terre rouge en plein coeur de la forêt ainsi que des rochers rouges qui vous donneront l’impression d’être en Australie (et je sais de quoi je parle pour y avoir voyagé deux ans !). Au Pays de Bitche, il y a de magnifiques randonnées à découvrir dans cette forêt préservée et sauvage. Vous pourrez également découvrir des châteaux construits dans la roche rouge (Le Falkenstein est notre préféré !), la ligne Maginot , des étangs, des chapelles cachées et le rocher de l’ Erbsenfelsen . Il est d’ailleurs possible d’y dormir avec son véhicule aménagé ! Alors ne manquez pas cette étape extraordinaire pendant votre road trip en Alsace !

Pour découvrir les 4 châteaux qui sillonnent le Pays de Bitche : le Falkenstein (12ème siècle), le Waldeck (13ème siècle), le Ramstein (13ème siècle) et le Weckersburg (15ème siècle) 5 circuits pédestres  Sentinelles de grès, départ à Eguelshardt – 13 km Au grès de l’eau, départ à l’étang de Hanau à Philippsbourg – 10,8 km Autour du château de Ramstein, départ à Baerenthal – 7,6 km A la croisée des vallées, départ à Walschbronn – 8,1 km A l’ombre du Grand Arnsbourg, départ à Baerenthal – 5,6 km 2 circuits VTT : Etangs et rochers, départ à Eguelshardt – 19 km Le grand tour des châteaux, départ à Phillippsbourg – 57 km 1 circuit équestre :  Boucle des châteaux à cheval, départ à Philippsbourg – 27 km

13/ Le Colorado alsacien (Moselle) en une journée

Plus au nord et à la frontière allemande se trouve le Colorado alsacien.  C’est encore une curiosité de la nature à découvrir lors de votre road trip. Caché au coeur de la forêt, vous allez longer des roches rouges sur plusieurs kilomètres qui nous ont encore une fois fait pensés à l’Australie bien que son nom le rattache aux USA. La randonnée nous fait basculer tantôt en France et tantôt en Allemagne. C’est assez drôle en fait de se dire qu’on change plusieurs fois de pays en une heure de marche ! 

Je reviens sur ce site naturel protégé et unique. Il devient lui aussi une victime des touristes qui ne le respectent pas, tout comme le Temple du Donon. Si vous y allez, s’il vous plaît, ne laissez pas vos déchets, respectez les parkings qui ont été installés-là pour les voyageurs et dites bonjour . Cela parait peu, mais les alsaciens et les allemands se disent toujours bonjour lorsqu’ils se croisent en balade. Et je peux vous assurer que plus les gens qui viendront seront polis et respectueux, et plus les locaux vous accueilleront dans leur micro-village avec amour et bienveillance.

14/ Strasbourg en une journée

Je ne vais pas vous rédiger un gros pavé sur Strasbourg car je pense que la ville mérite son propre article. Je vais donc faire comme pour Colmar et vous suggérer quelques visites en plus de vous donner quelques indications pour vous garer avec votre véhicule aménagé .

1 - Où se garer à Strasbourg ?

Sans surprise lorsque vous arriverez à Strasbourg vous serez surpris de sa taille et du nombre de voitures embouteillées. Pour être certain de bien visiter Strasbourg sans commencer dans des bouchons, arrivez en ville avant 8h ou après 10h.

Si vous avez un gros véhicules , vous verrez que ce sera compliqué de rouler dans Strasbourg. Cependant, vous devriez trouver une place dans des quartiers en périphérie de Strasbourg qui sont reliées au tram . Par contre, attention à ne pas vous garer dans des zones à risque telles que : Neuhof, Elsau, Hautepierre, Cronenbourg et Meinau.

Pour faire simple, garez votre véhicule dans une zone résidentielle dans un autre quartier que ceux cités plus haut et où il y a des écoles et des maisons pour ne pas être isolé. Souvent, lorsqu’il y a des maisons, les  parking sont gratuit .

2 - Quoi visiter à Strasbourg ?

Il y a beaucoup de coins sympas à découvrir à Strasbourg . C’est une ville dynamique et dont le centre historique est resté authentique. Rien qu’en vous baladant dans la ville vous allez avoir l’impression de visiter quelque chose d’incroyable ! D’ailleurs, toutes les visites sont essentiellement concentrées dans la veille-ville appelée aussi la Grande-Île puisqu’elle est située sur une île du fleuve appelé l’ Ill (vous suivez toujours ?).

À Strasbourg les principaux points d’intérêts sont :

• La Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg ,
• Le quartier de la Petite France ,
• Les ponts et le barrage Vauban ,
• Le Palais Rohan ,
• La Place Kleber ,
• L’Orangerie,
• Le Parlement Européen .

Et si vous n’avez pas encore eu le temps de goûter à toutes les spécialités alsaciennes ou d’acheter vos souvenirs d’Alsace , la ville de Strasbourg devrait vous permettre d’y remédier. Alors profitez de ce dernier jour en Alsace pour faire du shopping et pour terminer les découvertes culinaires !

15/ Quel est le budget d'un road trip de deux semaines en Alsace ?

Voyager en Alsace ne coûte pas bien cher puisque la plupart des visites sont gratuites (sauf musées et parcs à thème). Finalement, ce qui vous coûtera de l’argent, ce seront  vos repas, votre essence, vos achats et les parking . Car bien qu’aucune route ne soit payante en Alsace, les parkings eux ne le sont pas du tout. Il vous faudra prévoir un petit budget pour ça, ou bien apporter vos vélo afin de vous garer plus loin et éviter la douille.

Pour finir, la région propose pleins de spots sympas et en pleine nature où garer votre véhicule aménagé pour la nuit, et ça c’est vraiment top ! 

16/ Le Road trip en Alsace en vidéo (parties 1 et 2)

J’espère que ce nouvel article te plait et qu’il t’aidera à découvrir l’Alsace avec ton véhicule aménagé ! Partages nous tes découvertes qui ne seraient pas dans cet article en commentaire !

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2 commentaires.

Les Chalets d'Emilie

Voilà un article qui résume parfaitement les lieux à voir en Alsace. Je suis complètement d’accord pour La Petite Pierre. C’est un village très charmant bien qu’il soit petit. Ses musées, son château et ses jolies rues lui donnent un charme incontestable. De plus, c’est le point de départ de nombreuses randonnées. N’hésitez pas également à faire l’écomusée, c’est le plus grand musée à ciel ouvert de France et il est très intéressant !

Bonjour et merci pour ce commentaire ! En effet, l’écomusée est à faire, et pour nous, à refaire ! Cela fait des années que nous n’y avons plus été je pense qu’une petite mise à jour ne ferait pas de mal 🙂

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Road trip en Alsace

Que voir et que faire pendant votre road trip en alsace .

Si l’Alsace est en réalité tout proche de l’endroit où j’ai grandi (les Vosges) j’avoue que je la connaissais assez mal. Alors ces dernières années, j’ai profité de séjours chez mes parents pour approfondir cette exploration . Colorée, riche de paysages, vin et gastronomie, l’Alsace a tout pour plaire. Alors ni une, ni deux, je vous ai imaginé un circuit pour la découvrir. Et surtout sortir des sentiers battu en vous emmenant vers certains endroits qui me tiennent à coeur comme l’Écomusée par exemple ! À réaliser en famille, en couple, entre ami, en van, d’hôtel en hôtel ou en airBnB, ce road trip en Alsace vous propose de découvrir cette région unique en son genre.

Retrouvez d’autres Road trip en France juste ici !

Visiter la plus célèbre route des vins de France

Même si je ne suis pas une grande consommatrice ou amatrice de vin, l’histoire de ma famille est étroitement liée à celle de la vigne. Alors il m’est forcément difficile de visiter l’Alsace sans passer par ses beaux vignobles, ni goûter aux grands crus et 7 cépages alsaciens ! Sur cette route, on déguste du Sylvaner, Riesling, du Muscat, du Pinot et le célèbre Gewurztraminer. Il existe de nombreux domaines qui accueillent les visiteurs le temps d’une dégustation, d’un repas ou d’une journée découverte. Une occasion unique d’en apprendre d’avantage sur cet art particulier qu’est la viticulture. Sur cette célèbre route des vins d’Alsace, on découvre de nombreux villages typiquement alsaciens, colorés et fleuris.

Visiter Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg est l’une des plus charmantes cités d’Alsace avec ses ruelles pavées et ses maisons à colombages richement ornées. C’est aussi le village préféré des français en 2017 , rien que ça ! En plus d’être sur la route de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle, ce village surprend par le charme de ses sites médiévaux, il est également possible de découvrir la cité de façon originale à travers un jeu de piste !

Visiter Eguisheim

Située à la sortie sud de Colmar, Eguisheim est classée parmi « Un des Plus Beaux Villages de France » depuis 2003 et a décroché le titre de « Village préféré des Français » en 2013. Décidément, l’Alsace plait vraiment aux Français ! Ce petit village médiéval est littéralement bourré de charme. Entre fontaines, cours et églises, il est aussi beau au printemps que pendant les fêtes de Noël.

Visiter Riquewihr

Classé parmi les « Plus Beaux Villages de France » et oui, quand je vous dis que l’Alsace mérite le détour, ce n’est pas pour rire ! Cette magnifique cité marie depuis des siècles la qualité de son architecture à celle de ses vins, d’où son nom de « Perle du vignoble alsacien ». C’est un superbe village qui vaut le détour, comme tous les villages d’Alsace, attendez-vous à ce qu’il y ai du monde l’été.

Visiter Ribeauvillé

De ses fortifications médiévales, la ville conserve encore aujourd’hui une partie de son mur de remparts et certaines de ses tours défensives, dont la « Tour des Bouchers », qui doit son nom à la corporation des Bouchers. La Grand’rue et ses quartiers pittoresques, bordés de constructions fleuries, sont jalonnés de places ornées de fontaines de style renaissance.

Les Ribeaupierre firent construire 3 châteaux forts, dont les ruines dominent encore la cité et les collines environnantes. Accessibles par un sentier de randonnée : le château st Ulrich, le château Girsberg, le château du Haut-Ribeaupierre.

Colmar, immanquable pendant votre road trip en Alsace

Ou la ville la plus photogénique d’Alsace ! Que l’on soit à pied, en vélo ou à bord d’une barque sur la Lauch, on ne peut qu’être éblouis.  Les maisons à colombages bordant la rivière, les couleurs, les fleurs à profusion, la rivière, les petits ponts, tout semble fait pour nous charmer. Si vous le pouvez, allez-y plutôt hors saison, Colmar est une ville relativement prisée, il peut y avoir beaucoup de monde, vraiment beaucoup.

INFOS PRATIQUES |  Colmar

• La Petite Venise, surnom donné à la veille ville de Colmar, vient de la présence de maisons typiquement alsaciennes des deux côtés de la rivière et on peut même s’y promener en barque !
• Le Musée Bartholdi, dans la maison natale du sculpteur. Une salle entière est consacrée à la Statue de la Liberté
• Le musée Unterlinden, situé dans un ancien couvent de Dominicains fondé en 1252 rassemble une remarquable collection de sculptures et de peintures en plus d’une collection d’art moderne qui conserve des œuvres d’artistes majeurs tels que Monet, Picasso et Dubuffet.

Road trip en Alsace : l’incontournable route des Crêtes 

Si l’Alsace est connue pour sa plaine, le sommet du Hohneck culmine tout de même à 1363m d’altitude ! Autant dire que ça grimpe et qu’il vaut mieux y penser en choisissant le véhicule que vous allez utiliser pour explorer cette route mythique.

Virage après virage, sur près de 80km, la route des Crêtes nous offre un panorama à couper le souffle. Tout au long de votre chemin vous verrez de nombreux sentiers de randonnées dont le GR5. D’ailleurs, si vous y venez en automne vous découvrirez que certains coins de France ressemblent à s’y méprendre à l’Écosse.  Attention si vous tentez un road trip en Alsace hivernal : la route des crêtes n’est pas déneigé l’hiver ! C’est donc relativement dangereux de tenter cette route entre décembre et février, même si vous êtes habitué à la rouler dans la neige.

Visiter le Château du Haut Koenigsbourg

Dressé à près de 800 mètres d’altitude, le Château du Haut Koenigsbourg offre un panorama grandiose sur la plaine d’Alsace , les vallées et les ballons des Vosges, la Forêt-Noire, et avec un peu de chance quand il fait beau : les Alpes. Ce château en parfait état nous plonge au coeur du Moyen Âge. En réalité, il a été complètement détruit pendant la guerre de 30 ans, puis entièrement restauré entre 1901 et 1908. Sa pierre rouge si particulière se révèle particulièrement en hiver, sous la neige. Ce n’est pas un hasard si le château accueille chaque année plus d’un demi-millions de visiteurs ,  il est parmi les monuments les plus visités de France. Autant vous dire qu’il vaut mieux réserver les billets d’entrée à l’avance pour ne pas poireauter dehors !

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INFOS PRATIQUES | Haut-Koenigsbourg

• Visiter le Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg :  l’entrée est de 9€ plein tarif mais gratuite si vous avez pris le Pass’Alsace auparavant. Cliquez-ici pour réserver le Pass’Alsace .

Quelques incontournables aux alentours La Bibliothèque humaniste f ondée en 1452 (inscrite en 2011 au registre Mémoire du monde de l’UNESCO), Le Summer Vibration Reggae Festival, la ville de Sélestat

Strasbourg : point d’orgue de ce road trip en Alsace

Il y a bien évidement beaucoup de choses à voir et à faire à Strasbourg. Nous avons commencé cette journée en nous rendant en haut du barrage Vauban pour admirer la vue sur les ponts couverts avec au fond la Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg qui pointe le bout de son nez. Ensuite nous avons vadrouillé du côté du fabuleux quartier de la Petite France pendant plusieurs heures. Les Maisons à Colombages bordées par les canaux sont d’une beauté extraordinaire. Pour le repas du midi nous avons savouré des tapas alsaciens au restaurant Les Chauvins . Pour éliminer un peu nos folies culinaires, nous avons décidé de nous rendre sur la plateforme de la Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg . Eh bien autant vous dire que les plus de 330 marches à monter nous ont bien fait faire du sport et que nos jambes s’en souvenaient encore 2 jours après. Mais une fois arrivés en haut, une vue époustouflante à 360° sur toute la ville de Strasbourg s’offrait à nous. 

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INFOS PRATIQUES | Strasbourg

• Monter sur la plateforme de la cathédrale : 5€ 
• Il existe aussi le STRASBOURG PASS en vente à l’office de tourisme pour 21€50 vous avez plusieurs entrées gratuites dans les sites de la ville comme la plateforme de la cathédrale. Toutes les infos sur le site de l’OT:  www.otstrasbourg.fr

Quelques incontournables La maison des ponts couverts, La Petite France, Le Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain de Strasbourg, la place Gutenberg, la Cathédrale Notre-Dame, faire une promenade en bateau sur les canaux, le Parlement Européen, la Rue des jeux d’enfants.

Deuxième plus grande ville d’Alsace après Strasbourg, Mulhouse ne manque pas de charme. Entre patrimoine historique et Street-Art , Mulhouse c’est avant tout  la Cité de l’Automobile et du Train ! Même si, comme moi, vous n’êtes pas de grands passionnés d’automobile, c’est tout de même interessant, ne serait-ce que pour voir de vos yeux ce qu’on appelle la Révolution Industrielle. 

INFOS PRATIQUES | Mulhouse

Il existe un Mulhouse City Pass adulte à 18€ et un Pass Junior à 14€ qui est vraiment interessant si vous restez plusieurs jours.

Quelques incontournables Cité de l’Automobile, Cité du train, Parc Zoologique et Botanique, Temple Saint-Étienne, le belvédère à côté du Zoo, faire une balade en bateau électrique, l’Écomusée d’Alsace. 

Le Hartmannswillerkopf ou Vieil Armand

Incontournable lieu de mémoire de la 1ère Guerre Mondiale chargé d’histoire et d’émotions . Sillonner le champ de bataille, ses tranchées et abris ne laisse pas indifférent. Pour tout vous dire, je l’ai visité en Octobre et c’est encore plus saisissant, on ne peut qu’imaginer la galère des soldats Français et Allemand qui sont restés là pendant 4 longues années. On connait tous l’Histoire de l’Alsace, ce territoire disputé entre la France et l’Allemagne, ce qui en fait un territoire très particulier pendant la Première Guerre Mondiale, rappelez-vous, l’Alsace était alors Allemande. 

Sur ce champ de bataille, 30 000 hommes des deux camps ont été broyés sous un orage d’acier . Des deux côtés des tranchées, on se disputait durement ce poste d’observation stratégique. Pourquoi ? Car ce promontoire de 956m domine la plaine d’Alsace et permet de surveiller à des kilomètres à la ronde. Rien qu’en 1915, le sommet changea quatre fois de camp. Vous pourrez marcher dans les tranchés, sur les pas des soldats des deux camps qui rivalisaient d’ingéniosité pour adoucir leurs conditions de vie.

Classé monument historique, le site abrite l’un des quatre monuments nationaux dédiés à cette période tragique. Le musée imaginé pour raconter cette histoire est absolument fabuleux, en particulier un film animé qui nous plonge dans cette bataille en nous mettant dans la peau des soldats. 

INFOS PRATIQUES | Hartsmannwillerkopf

Visiteurs individuels 6 € par personne, enfants de moins de 10 ans accompagnés d’un adulte Entrée libre. En raison de l’absence de déneigement de la route des crêtes, l’ensemble du site du Hartmannswillerkopf est fermé du 11 novembre jusqu’au début du mois d’avril . 

Ecomusée d’Alsace : retour dans le passé

L’Écomusée d’Alsace est le plus grand musée vivant à ciel ouvert de France. Qu’est-ce-que ça veut dire ? Et bien, à l’Écomusée d’Alsace, on vit comme au début du XXI siècle. Entre maisons à colombages, fermes, école, chapelle, gare, moulins, ateliers d’artisans, scierie… Des dizaines de bénévoles se relayent tout au long de l’année pour nous raconter l’Histoire. 

Fêtes traditionnelles, animations quotidiennes, étonnantes expositions temporaires, festivals, promenades en barque ou charrette, chantiers participatifs… C’est une sortie idéale pour petits et grands ! Je m’y rends régulièrement car il y a toujours de nouvelles choses à voir, des maisons qui sont ouvertes et d’autres non, de nouvelles animations… Et les bénévoles ne sont jamais à court d’idées ! Je pourrais passer des heures à discuter avec chacun d’eux, de leurs ambitions pour l’Écomusée et pour eux-même. C’est étonnant à quel point le passé peut faire réfléchir à l’avenir.  

INFOS PRATIQUES | Écomusée d’Alsace

• Le site est relativement grand, il vaut mieux y consacrer une journée entière. Les pique-nique sont autorisés. 
• Visiteurs individuels 15€ par personne, Enfants de 4 à 17 ans 10€, Famille 46€.

Un road trip gustatif en Alsace : Les spécialités culinaires alsaciennes 

Si vous visitez l’Alsace, vous verrez qu’il y a une multitude de produits/plats/vins à déguster . Et que c’est bon ! Qu’est-ce qu’on mange bien en Alsace ! On en a encore l’eau à la bouche rien qu’en vous parlant de tout ça. Nous avons donc savouré la fameuse choucroute, la flammekueche (tarte flambée), le baeckeoffe, le munster, le bretzel sous ces différentes manières (classique, aux pépites de chocolat, aux lardons…), le Kugelhopf (brioche alsacienne). Pour ce qui est des vins, n’oubliez pas de gouter et de repartir avec les vins d’Alsace dont les sept cépages principaux sont : le Sylvaner, le Pinot Blanc, le Riesling, le Muscat, le Pinot Gris, le Gewurztraminer et le Pinot Noir. J’avoue avec un penchant particulier pour le Gewurztraminer. Si comme nous, vous êtes végétariens, sachez que la plupart des plats sont souvent adaptés sans viande.

J’espère vous avoir donné envie de visiter l’Alsace et qu’elle vous plaira autant qu’à moi.

À très vite belle Alsace ! Manon

France , Grand Est , Road trip en Alsace et dans les Vosges en van

Road trip en Alsace et dans les Vosges en van

A l’été 2020, nous avons entrepris de faire un road trip en Alsace et dans les Vosges en van. Nous allons partager avec vous tous nos conseils et tous les incontournables à découvrir lors d’un voyage dans le Grand Est. Au programme de cette semaine de voyage, de beaux paysages, la route des vins d’Alsace…

Passez par les villes de Strasbourg et faites la visite de la petite France. C’est une super idée de balade ! Découvrez également la belle Colmar. Partez à la découverte des beaux villages alsaciens historiques en van comme Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, le magnifique Riquewihr. On y trouve des maisons à colombage typiques de la région. Visiter l’Alsace, c’est aussi découvrir les marchés de Noël et partir à la découverte du vin de la région. N’oubliez pas de vous perdre au cœur des Vosges. Vous pourrez y faire des balades à pied. Découvrez les nombreux châteaux de la région. Partez admirer la nature alsacienne ou vosgienne.

Vous l’aurez compris, dans ce guide touristique vous trouverez de quoi passer un super séjour en van aménagé en famille, en couple ou entre amis. Nous partageons avec vous notre circuit, notre aventure.

Visiter l’Alsace et les Vosges en van : un moyen de locomotion et une façon de se loger propice à l’évasion

Pendant les deux longs mois que nous avons passés confinés début 2020, nous avons aménagé un van afin de nous rendre en Norvège. Le contexte sanitaire mondial a fait qu’on ne pouvait plus s’y rendre et donc nous avons décidé de voyager en France avec.

Nous avions découvert le voyage en van en août 2019 lors de notre voyage en Irlande et nous avions adoré. Le van est un bon moyen de visiter l’Alsace et les Vosges. C’est un moyen qui permet de dormir dans des lieux d’exception, à condition bien sûr de préserver la nature en ne laissant rien sur place et en évitant d’abimer les lieux. Le camping sauvage se doit d’être respectueux et alors vous pourrez dormir dans votre véhicule entre deux vignobles alsaciens. Si vous voulez plus d’infos sur le voyage en van, on vous raconte ici notre voyage en van en Irlande et on vous donne des conseils pour les personnes qui ne connaissent pas le voyage en van et que ça intéresserait .

Si vous n’avez pas votre propre véhicule aménagé, sachez que de nombreuses agences en proposent à la location. Louer un van lors d’un road trip en Alsace peut être une bonne première occasion de tester ce mode de voyage qui n’est pas sans intérêt, vous l’aurez compris ! Vous expérimenterez en effet la liberté qu’offre une maison sur roues.

Quand visiter l’Alsace et les Vosges ?

L’Alsace et les Vosges se visitent toute l’année : tout dépend de ce que vous recherchez. Si vous voulez voir les marchés de Noël alsaciens, qui méritent sûrement le détour, il vaut mieux bien sûr privilégier la dernière période de l’année : l’hiver.

Au printemps, les premières fleurs subliment les paysages alsaciens. Il y a aussi moins de touristes. C’est une super saison pour profiter de l’ambiance alsacienne.

A l’automne, les teintes orangées des Vosges et des vignes sur la route des vins d’Alsace doivent être un plaisir à photographier.

Nous avons personnellement opté pour l’été, et on doit dire qu’on a finalement été agréablement surpris par le faible nombre de touristes. Il semble que nous ayons fait un bon choix. Peut-être était-ce parce que nous y étions après le 15 août ou alors en raison du contexte sanitaire, mais finalement nous avons bien pu profiter des différents lieux que nous avons visités à travers l’Alsace.

Combien de temps pour visiter l’Alsace et les Vosges ?

La question que l’on nous pose assez régulièrement mais à laquelle il nous est compliqué de répondre. Tout dépend de votre rythme, de ce que vous voulez voir, faire, expérimenter. Il nous semble qu’une semaine est une bonne idée pour réaliser le trajet que nous avons réalisé mais tout est une question de perception et d’envie. Vous pouvez bien sûr y passer plusieurs jours, notamment si vous voulez réaliser davantage de randonnées.

Road trip en Alsace et dans les Vosges : que manger ?

Les spécialités alsaciennes et vosgiennes sont nombreuses. Bien sûr, le bretzel est un « must taste » (quelque chose à goûter) si vous allez en Alsace ! L’office de tourisme de la région a même fait de ce pain son emblème. Vous en trouverez dans n’importe quelle boulangerie. Il y a aussi les Spätzle, ces pâtes typiques alsaciennes. La Flammenkueche est un incontournable culinaire alsacien : cette tarte flambée est une sorte de fine pâte à pain recouverte de lardons, d’oignons et de crème fraîche. Il y aussi bien sûr la célèbre choucroute et le Munster, sans oublier les nombreux vins d’Alsace.

Dans les Vosges, goûtez les tartes aux myrtilles (qu’on appelle tartes aux brimbelles) si vous vous y rendez en été. Il y aussi bien sûr les râpés aux pommes de terre et la salade vosgienne…

Que ramener de l’Alsace et des Vosges ?

Les boutiques de souvenirs alsaciennes proposent de nombreuses spécialités locales. Nous vous conseillons personnellement, lorsque vous vous rendrez dans l’un des nombreux villages de la route des vins, d’aller acheter des bouteilles chez un vigneron (si vous êtes amateur de vin, bien sûr). Les spécialités locales en règle générale ne manquent pas !

Visiter l’Alsace et les Vosges en van : que voir ?

L’Alsace et les Vosges sont deux destinations incontournables du Grand Est, deux destinations qui d’ailleurs s’entremêlent beaucoup ! Nous avons décidé de vous parler des trois départements que nous avons visités dans la région : le Bas-Rhin, le Haut-Rhin et les Vosges.

Découvrir le Bas-Rhin lors d’un road trip en Alsace en van

Le Bas-Rhin est le département du Grand Est où nous avons visité le plus de lieux durant notre voyage. C’est un département très riche d’un point de vue touristique, parfait pour un road trip en van.

Les jolis villages typiques et villes à voir sur la route des vins et ailleurs

Dans le Bas-Rhin, les villages à voir sont nombreux lors d’un road trip. Personnellement, nous avons adoré Hunspach, qui est situé au Nord du département. Mais il y en a aussi beaucoup à voir sur la route des vins, comme Heiligenstein, Barr et sa jolie place de la mairie. Mittelbergheim est classé Plus Beau Village de France et a participé à l’émission « le village préféré des Français » de Stéphane Bern. N’oubliez pas non plus Kaysersberg. Le village de Kaysersberg a gagné l’édition 2017 de la même émission. Visiter l’Alsace nécessite sans aucun doute de découvrir ses villages ! La route des vins d’Alsace est l’un des meilleurs road trip à réaliser en France.

Niveau villes, nous vous recommandons sans retenue de prendre la route de Wissembourg pour y réaliser une nouvelle étape. C’est très sympa !

Visiter l’Alsace – Strasbourg : une ville incontournable, « capitale » d’Alsace

Découvrir l’Alsace sans passer par Strasbourg serait vraiment dommage ! Son quartier « la Petite France » mérite à lui seul un détour par Strasbourg : sa petite rivière qui serpente entre les maisons à pans de bois offre un spectacle sublime pour les visiteurs de la ville la plus européenne de France. Passez à la cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg et découvrez en l’histoire. Il faut vraiment venir visiter Strasbourg lors de votre road trip en van en Alsace. C’est l’une des meilleures villes pour les amoureux d’architecture, et cette ville semble aussi agréable à visiter en vélo. En décembre, y découvrir des marchés de Noël doit être vraiment chouette.

Où dormir à Strasbourg ?

Nous n’avons pas testé d’hôtels à Strasbourg puisque nous avons réalisé ce road trip en van. Néanmoins, si vous souhaitez rester plusieurs journées à Strasbourg et que vous voulez vous offrir une parenthèse agréable, nous avons trouvé un hôtel plutôt chouette pour vous. La déco est juste vraiment belle. Les prix sont d’ailleurs plutôt raisonnables.

Découvrez des monuments historiques en Alsace

Le Bas-Rhin, c’est aussi l’endroit parfait si vous souhaitez visiter des lieux historiques ! Entre Strasbourg et ses jolies églises, le château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, il y a de quoi faire dans le Bas-Rhin. En ce qui nous concerne, nous avons eu un coup de coeur pour le Mont Sainte-Odile. Ce haut lieu du pèlerinage offre une vue somptueuse sur la nature alsacienne. En effet, après s’être garés sur le parking du Mont Saint-Odile, nous avons pu observer un coucher de soleil unique et clôturer notre journée de la plus belle des façons.

Pour découvrir notre itinéraire complet dans ce département, on vous invite à regarder notre article sur les choses à faire dans le Bas-Rhin .

Visiter l’Alsace – Que voir dans le Haut-Rhin ?

Le Haut-Rhin est situé au Sud de l’Alsace. Il possède selon nous les plus jolis villages de la route des vins mais aussi une ville à ne louper sous aucun prétexte : Colmar, une ville colorée tout à fait charmante ! Colmar a été un véritable coup de coeur.

Road trip en Alsace en van : découvrez les jolis villages typiques de la route des vins

Nous avons poursuivi notre road trip sur la route des vins dans le Haut-Rhin et avons découvert de très jolis villages à découvrir absolument. On a apprécié se promener dans Bergheim, où les touristes sont peu nombreux. Ribeauvillé et Riquewihr, davantage touristiques, notamment en haute-saison, méritent également le détour. Le village classé parmi les plus beaux villages de France Eguisheim est un aussi un petit joyau de l’architecture médiévale alsacienne. Dans tous les cas, vous aurez l’opportunité de découvrir de nombreux vignobles dans ces villages typiques.

Visiter l’Alsace – Colmar : une ville coup de coeur au patrimoine restauré et authentique

Colmar et son quartier de la Petite Venise nous ont rappelé le quartier de la Petite France à Strasbourg et on a adoré. Très fleurie, la Petite Venise est composée de maisons à pans de bois construites au fil de l’eau, et plus précisément de la Lauch. La maison des têtes, située un peu plus loin dans la ville, est aussi un lieu à voir.

Un hôtel où séjourner une nuit à Colmar

Nous n’avons pas testé cet hôtel car nous avons réalisé notre road trip en Alsace en van. Mais puisque vous nous demandez souvent des hôtels, nous vous avons trouvé celui-ci qui semble vraiment top.

Traverser l’Alsace : découvrir les Hautes Vosges d’Alsace

Dans les Hautes Vosges d’Alsace, nous avons changé de décor et de paysages. Les montagnes nous ont offert un bol d’air frais et un moment de dépaysement. C’était une vraie parenthèse lors de notre roadtrip en fourgon. Nous avons également voyagé dans le temps avec la découverte d’un lieu de bataille de la Première Guerre Mondiale et le Grand Ballon. Les Hautes Vosges d’Alsace, c’est l’endroit idéal pour faire une balade ou une randonnée si vous êtes amateur et que vous en avez le temps.

Pour plus d’informations sur notre itinéraire dans le Haut-Rhin, c’est par ici que ça se passe .

Que voir dans les Vosges ? Le meilleur pour un road trip en van

Nous avons fini notre road trip en van en Alsace et dans les Vosges avec le département du même nom : les Vosges. C’est dans cet article qu’on partage avec vous notre carnet de voyage et notre itinéraire : au programme, de nombreux lacs de montagne, un col, des crêtes et une jolie ville. Les Vosges, c’est le département parfait pour réaliser des activités outdoor. Cette partie de France est plutôt préservée du tourisme de masse, encore hors des sentiers battus.

Découvrez le Lac des Corbeaux, un lieu nature à ajouter à votre circuit dans les Vosges

Le Lac des Corbeaux est un lac glaciaire bordé de hauts sapins auquel il n’est pas possible d’accéder en hiver. Différentes randonnées existent aux alentours , sachant que lors de notre road trip en été on a trouvé qu’il y avait pas mal de monde.

Il y a différents accès pour atteindre le lac des Corbeaux. On conseille aux camping-cars de bien se renseigner sur la route qu’ils empruntent pour s’y rendre car l’un des deux accès est une route très étroite où il est difficile de se croiser.

Sur place, il y a un petit chalet où il est possible de se restaurer, c’est très agréable ! C’est une étape à ajouter à votre aventure vosgienne.

Visiter Gérardmer lors d’un voyage en van

Gérardmer (qu’on prononce « Gérarmé »), ce fut un peu compliqué! Nous voulions trouver un coin pour accéder au lac facilement, à l’écart de la ville, donc nous en avons fait le tour et nous avons été incapables de trouver une place ! Nous avons donc retrouvé la ville où nous avons également beaucoup tourné avant de nous garer, ce qui a failli nous pousser à abandonner la découverte de cette ville et de son lac. Gérardmer est situé sur les routes touristiques de la région et ne nous a pas énormément séduits… En raison des difficultés rencontrées pour se garer, nous n’avons pu accéder qu’au côté aménagé du lac, et ça manquait de naturel…

Road trip dans les Vosges en van : s’arrêter au Lac de Longemer

Le lac de Longemer est un lac plus naturel et sauvage que le lac de Gérardmer. Il est possible de s’y baigner, d’y pêcher et même d’en faire le tour à pied en 1h environ. Pour plus d’infos sur le lac, retrouvez le guide par ici .

Road trip dans les Vosges en van : Découvrir le Lac de Retournemer

Le Lac de Retournemer fut notre premier lac coup de coeur lors de nos vacances dans les Vosges. Il est assez petit mais ses abords sont très mignons. Il est également possible d’en faire le tour.

Pour avoir un super point de vue sur le lac de Retournemer et le lac de Longemer, on vous conseille de prendre de la hauteur et de vous rendre à la roche du diable , le panorama y est incroyable. C’est une étape qui vaut le coup lors d’un road trip dans les Vosges.

Découvrir la beauté et la faune du Col du Hohneck : un décor de carte postale

Le lendemain matin, nous avons poursuivi notre découverte et aventure dans les Vosges en van en prenant la direction du Col du Hohneck.

Les températures étaient tout bonnement glaciales (on s’approchait des 0°C) et la météo était loin d’être clémente. Cela doit être quelque chose en hiver avec la neige !

Sortir de la voiture fut très compliqué mais la récompense fut à la hauteur de notre effort puisque nous avons aperçu des bouquetins. C’était drôlement chouette ! Nous savions qu’il y en avait souvent à cet endroit-là mais nous avions peur de mal tomber. Au petit matin, il y avait finalement peu de monde et c’est peut-être ce qui nous a permis d’avoir la chance d’en apercevoir. Ce fut l’un des moments inoubliables de notre road trip en van dans les Vosges.

Lac du Forlet : un endroit à voir au coeur des Vosges secrètes

Le Lac du Forlet, aussi surnommé Lac des Truites, est notre deuxième lac coup de coeur dans les Vosges. Pourtant, il se mérite. Le chemin par lequel on y accède en voiture est un chemin de gros cailloux, si bien qu’avec notre van, nous avons roulé très doucement. Mais cela valait le coup de s’y rendre !

Ce lac est tout bonnement splendide. C’est un lac situé dans un cadre d’exception, le lac le plus haut des Vosges. Il s’est formé dans un ancien cirque glaciaire. Comme son nom l’indique, c’est un lieu privilégié pour la pêche, si bien que les seules personnes que nous avons croisées ce matin-là étaient des pêcheurs.

C’est un lac vraiment très joli à voir lors d’un road trip en van dans les Vosges, en famille ou en couple.

Le Lac Blanc : une étape à ajouter lors d’un premier road trip en fourgon aménagé dans les Vosges

Notre dernier arrêt lors de notre visite de l’Alsace et des Vosges fut le Lac Blanc. Ce lac blanc est accessible en voiture mais pour un point de vue d’exception, il faudra montrer jusqu’au « château Hans », un rocher en forme de forteresse. C’est un immanquable de la région.

Autres choses à faire lors d’un road trip en Alsace ou dans les Vosges :

• découvrir un superbe étang dans le Parc Naturel régional des Vosges du Nord : l’étang de Donnenbach
• rejoindre le ville fortifiée de Turckheim
• découvrir le site archéologique de Gurtelbach
• faire du pédalo sur le Lac de Kruth-Wildenstein, un lieu que l’on doit à un barrage
• découvrir la gastronomie alsacienne dans un winstub, un bar à vin – restaurant authentique. Vous pourriez y déguster un bon repas.
• visiter la ville de Mulhouse. Il y a un écomusée sympathique à voir à Mulhouse. La visite du musée des Beaux-Arts peut être une bonne idée d’activité. Il possède une multitude d’œuvres dans ses diverses galeries.
• Admirer les cigognes dans la ville de Munster avant de repartir d’Alsace. Si vous avez des enfants, cela peut être une superbe façon de profiter des joies de la région.
• se promener dans la forêt de Haguenau : elle propose de jolies randonnées
• faire une dégustation dans une cave
• découvrir la vallée de la Bruche, entre l’Alsace et les Vosges
• visiter l’un des châteaux d’Alsace, comme le château Fort de Fleckenstein. Cela vous permettra d’en apprendre davantage sur l’Histoire de la région.

C’est ainsi que notre guide sur notre voyage en Alsace et sur les belles routes des Vosges se termine. On espère qu’il vous sera utile pour organiser votre roadtrip et donc pour visiter l’Alsace (et ses villages pittoresques) et les Vosges en van, que ce soit lors d’un week-end ou de vacances plus longues.

N’hésitez pas à laisser un commentaire pour toute remarque, question, recommandation… Si vous aimez les road trips, n’hésitez pas à consulter nos articles sur celui qu’on a effectué sur la côte atlantique en van ou celui qu’on a fait pour découvrir les châteaux de la Loire .

A bientôt ! Lola + Julien.

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Visiter l’Alsace : que faire dans le Haut-Rhin ?

Durant l’été 2020, nous avons décidé de prendre la route du Haut-Rhin afin d’en découvrir les incontournables mais également de partir à la découverte de lieux davantage secrets d’Alsace. Nous

Visite du Bas-Rhin : que faire ?

Lors de l’été 2020, nous avons pris pour la route avec notre van pour réaliser une visite du Bas-Rhin. Au programme de ce voyage : une découverte des endroits incontournables

Une réponse

Bonjour J’aimerai passer 2 jours en Alsace (Haut-Rhin). Avez vous un lieu à me conseiller pour passer la nuit dans un endroit où il est possible de se stationner et de bénéficier d’une belle vue ? Où est il possible de se stationner avec un van au bord d’un des lacs pour profiter d’une belle vue ? En vous remerciant par avance.

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Une semaine en Alsace

Strasbourg , Colmar , Mulhouse  : offrez-vous des escapades citadines au cœur de l’ Alsace . Ajoutez à cela, les paysages enchanteurs de la Route des Vins d’Alsac e et le charme envoûtant du Massif des Vosges , pour une semaine de détente et d’évasion garantie !

• Durée Une semaine
• Moyen de déplacement En voiture
• Distance 185 km

Jour 1 : On flâne au cœur de la capitale alsacienne

Culture et joyaux architecturaux.

Pour votre première matinée en Alsace , commencez en douceur en flânant dans le cœur de Strasbourg : la Grande Île . Admirez ses joyaux architecturaux qui lui ont valu d’être classée au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO. Dirigez-vous d’abord vers la Place du Château pour admirer le royal Palais Rohan , demeure de trois musées où vous pourrez y faire une halte si vous êtes amateur d’art décoratif ou d’histoire. Tout à côté, la majestueuse cathédrale Notre-Dame s’offre à vous. Après votre visite, grimpez les 332 marches jusqu'à sa plateforme pour une vue imprenable de la ville.

Romance à la Petite France

Après avoir partagé des tartes flambées à la Binchstub, restaurant typique situé place Broglie, partez à la découverte du quartier de la Petite France . Ce quartier pittoresque, vous enchantera rapidement avec ses petites ruelles pavées, ses ponts fleuris et l’atmosphère romantique qui en émane. Après avoir traversé le Pont du Faisan, dirigez-vous vers les Ponts Couverts pour une balade au bord de l’eau, où vous pourrez découvrir le spot le plus photographié de la ville : la Maison des Ponts Couverts. Terminez votre journée tout en douceur en parcourant les quais, à pied ou à bord d’un bateau mouche, pour reposer vos petons.

Les incontournables

La cathédrale

La Petite France

La Neustadt : le quartier impérial allemand (1870-1918)

Jour 2 : on fait le plein d’énergie sur les terres de sainte-odile, voyage dans le temps à obernai.

À quelques kilomètres de Strasbourg , partez à la découverte d’ Obernai , charmante bourgade viticole. Vous serez d’abord impressionné par son beffroi et ses remparts qui protègent le centre-ville, dont l’architecture chevaleresque, vous fera vite voyager dans le temps. Faites une halte Place du Marché, installez-vous à la terrasse de l’un de ses restaurants et profitez de la vue sur la mairie et la tour de guet à l’architecture médiévale.

Pèlerinage vers le Mont Sainte-Odile

Partez à la découverte d’un environnement exceptionnel du massif vosgien,  au Mont Sainte-Odile . Arrivé au sommet, pénétrez le couvent qui surplombe la plaine d'Alsace , fondé par sainte Odile, patronne de l' Alsace . Flânez, découvrez et admirez ce qui s’offre à vous. Le long de votre excursion, vous découvrirez le Mur Païen, énigme historique et scientifique, qui entoure le Mont de ses 300 000 blocs de pierre. 

Mont Sainte-Odile

Le Mur Païen

Jour 3 : on part à l’assaut du plus célèbre château d’alsace, merveille architecturale.

Prenez la route pour  Sélestat . Battez le pavé des rues de son centre-ville et admirez ses maisons à colombages. Lors de votre excursion, profitez-en pour visiter la Bibliothèque Humaniste , trésor de la Renaissance, dont l’architecture émerveille par sa beauté. Vous découvrirez un écrin éblouissant et lumineux, qui abrite une incroyable collection de manuscrits médiévaux, dont une partie est classé au patrimoine de l’UNESCO.

Forteresse légendaire

Château fort admirablement restauré, le château du Haut-Koenigsbourg offre un aperçu de ce qu’étaient les forteresses de montagne du Moyen-Âge. Du haut de son donjon, on profite d’une vue d’exception sur toute la plaine d’Alsace . Partez à la découverte de tous les secrets que renferme le château, grâce aux nombreux ateliers, aux visites guidées ainsi qu’avec de nombreux évènements organisés tout au long de l’année.

Jour 4 : On goûte à la douceur de vivre sur la Route des Vins d’Alsace

Empruntez l’itinéraire mythique de la  Route des Vins d’Alsace , et découvrez un parcours enchanteur entre vignoble, villages pittoresques et inimitables maisons à colombages. Les 7 cépages alsaciens se dévoilent au détour de cette route, propice à de nombreuses rencontres avec les viticulteurs, qui partagent leur amour de la vigne et du terroir. Débutez votre excursion en cheminant sur le sentier qui traverse le vignoble alsacien et relie Ribeauvillé à Hunawihr . Dirigez-vous ensuite vers Riquewihr pour admirer les beautés qu’offrent la cité viticole et terminez la journée à Kaysersberg , village au charme typique pour un moment de détente à la lueur de son coucher de soleil.

La Route des Vins d’Alsace

Sur 170 km, la mythique Route des Vins d’Alsace égrène un chapelet de villages pittoresques, de cités viticoles réputées et de paysages exceptionnels.

Hébergements coup de cœur sur la Route des Vins d’Alsace

Villages typiques de la Route des Vins d’Alsace

Jour 5 : on admire de nombreux trésors d’architecture à colmar, à la découverte du patrimoine colmarien.

Colmar propose aux flâneurs un concentré des charmes de la vie à l’alsacienne. Commencez votre visite par la  Petite Venise  : un dédale charmant de canaux que vous pouvez emprunter en barque à fond plat. Puis, admirez les joyaux gothiques ou Renaissance de la vieille ville, avec notamment, la  Collégiale Saint-Martin , où se déploient tout autour quelques belles terrasses.

Un après-midi pour se cultiver

Visitez le Musée Unterlinden  qui abrite le fameux  Retable d’Issenheim  ! Accédez à l’autre côté du musée, en traversant un tunnel sous-terrain et pénétrez dans les anciens Bains Municipaux de la ville qui accueillent dorénavant l’aile contemporaine avec des œuvres d’artistes majeurs tels que Monet , Picasso ou encore Dubuffet .  Le clou du spectacle ? La tapisserie Guernica de René et Jacqueline Dürrbach, réplique parfaite de l’œuvre de Picasso . Il en existe seulement trois dans le monde, à New York, au Japon, et Colmar !

Pittoresques maisons à colombages, canaux romantiques, fenêtres fleuries, dédale de ruelles pavées et gastronomie savoureuse : Colmar, l’une des plus coquettes villes d’Alsace, vous invite à goûter à son art de vivre !

Collégiale Saint-Martin

Quai de la Poissonnerie

Maison Pfister

Jour 6 : on respire au cœur du massif des vosges.

Non loin de Colmar , partez à la découverte du  Massif des Vosges , sur la route de la Vallée de Munster . Un véritable paradis pour les randonneurs (et les gourmands) où se mêle une faune et une flore remarquable pour un paysage de moyenne montagne extraordinaire. Pour les amateurs de sensations fortes, préférez la Vallée de Kaysersberg pour ses nombreuses activités : balades au Lac Blanc , accrobranche ou encore bike park attendent les plus aventureux.

Massif des Vosges

Terre de contrastes, le Massif des Vosges vous invite aux plus belles échappées ! Une infinie variété d'expériences comblera les amoureux de grand air, d'aventures et de dépaysement.

Activités dans le Massif des Vosges

Véritable terrain de jeu, le Massif des Vosges vous invite à l'aventure ! Entre escapade ressourçante et nouvelles sensations, essayez-vous à une multitude d'activités et profitez d'une grande bouffée d'oxygène.

Itinéraires de randonnées dans le Massif des Vosges

Le Lac Blanc

Lac du Forlet (Lac des Truites)

Jour 7 : on explore l’alsace créative à mulhouse, des musées pour tous les goûts.

Pour cette dernière étape, rendez-vous à Mulhouse, ville d’Art et d’Histoire au passé industriel prestigieux. Amateurs de voitures ? Rendez-vous à la Cité de l’Automobile, avec sa collection de plus de 400 véhicules, de Bugatti à Ferrari en passant par Rolls Royce. Plutôt fashionista ? Direction le Musée de l'Impression sur Étoffes, pour découvrir cette technique qui inspire encore aujourd’hui, les plus grands créateurs.

Street art au cœur de la ville

Partez à la découverte de la facette créative de la cité. L’art est inscrit dans l’ADN mulhousien : murs peints, installations contemporaines ou encore fresques monumentales, déambulez dans une véritable galerie d'art urbain à ciel ouvert et laissez-vous surprendre par un éventail de couleurs.

Forte de son passé industriel, Mulhouse y a puisé toute sa richesse ! Ville d’Art et d’Histoire , cette « Manchester à la française » brille aujourd'hui par son univers créatif et innovant .

Musées de Mulhouse

Street Art à Mulhouse

Patrimoine technique et industriel à Mulhouse

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Road trip en Alsace : 8 lieux incontournables à découvrir (+2 bonus)

• Conseils voyages , RoadTrip

L’Alsace est une des plus belles régions de France, autant en hiver qu’en été. Elle révèle, en effet, son lot de trésors aux personnes qui prennent le temps de la visiter.

Avec notre idée de circuit en Alsace , vous découvrirez les plus beaux lieux du territoire et vous en apprendrez plus sur la culture de la région.

Évidemment, rien de mieux qu’un van ou un fourgon aménagé pour profiter d’une totale liberté .

Passez par les Hautes Vosges avant de rejoindre l’Alsace

Remontons un peu pour se rendre à Colmar . Vous allez apprécier ses canaux, son centre-ville fleuri et ses nombreux musées.

C’est aussi le lieu idéal pour déguster la gastronomie alsacienne dans une des brasseries typiques.

A savoir : vous pouvez vous rendre au château de Hohlandsbourg à une dizaine de kilomètres de la ville pour profiter d’une vue panoramique incroyable.

Kaysersberg

En plus d’être une étape de la route des vins d’Alsace, ce village possède un véritable charme et il est agréable de se perdre dans ses ruelles pour observer les façades colorées des maisons. Ne loupez pas le château de Kaysersberg lors de votre road-trip en Alsace.

Non loin de Kaysersberg, nous trouvons Riquewihr (vous pouvez d’ailleurs faire les deux le même jour si vous le souhaitez).

Classé comme l’un des plus beaux villages de France , cette ancienne ville fortifiée possède une ambiance typiquement alsacienne.

Voici une liste des lieux incontournables de la ville :

• L’hôtel de Ville néo-classique (daté de 1809) ;
• L’ancien château des comtes Montbéliard-Wurtemberg ;
• L’ancienne cour de l’abbaye d’Autrey ;
• L’ancienne cour des Évêques de Strasbourg ;
• L’ancien beffroi le Dolder et son musée ;
• Les maisons classées monuments historiques de la rue des juifs ou du Général de Gaulle.

A Strasbourg, nous trouvons, entre autres :

• Le centre historique de la ville : la Grande île ;
• La place du Marché Gayot ;
• Le quartier des Orfèvres ;
• Le quai des Bateliers ;
• Le quartier de la petite France ;
• La cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg ;
• Le Barrage Vauban ;
• Sans oublier le Palais de l’Europe qui est le siège du Conseil de l’Europe.

Wissembourg

Entre ses églises, sa maison du sel, ses remparts, ses places et ses ruelles, vous finissez votre voyage en toute beauté.

A noter : non loin de la ville, vous pouvez vous rendre, si vous le souhaitez, au parc naturel des Vosges du Nord et, surtout, au château fort de Fleckenstein (bâti au 12 ème siècle).

Idée de road trip en Alsace : la route des vins

Vous voulez une visite de l’Alsace thématique ? Vous aimez le vin ? Dans ce cas, vous pouvez emprunter la route des vins d’Alsace en camping-car, van ou fourgon aménagé afin de partir à la découverte des principaux cépages de la région.

Évidemment, il est possible de stationner facilement dans une aire de camping-car en Alsace à proximité de chaque étape importante.

Visite guidée de cave, dégustation, visite de villes, balade dans les vignobles, cours d’œnologie… : vaste programme en prévision.

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Road Trip en Grand Est

Partez-en Road Trip dans le  Grand Est  à la découverte de fantastique paysages, de villages authentiques aux milles maisons à pans de bois et de lieux chargés d’histoire. L’itinéraire est le suivant : Mont Sainte Odile – Strasbourg – Le Rocher de Dabo – Nancy – Metz – Verdun – Château de Sedan – Asfeld – Reims – Bar le Duc – Langres – Epinal – Baccarat

Jour 1 : Mont Sainte Odile – Strasbourg

Pour commencer cette première journée de road trip dans la région Grand Est, rendez-vous au  Mont Sainte Odile , où vous découvrirez son couvent qui constitue un haut lieu de pèlerinage. La terrasse du couvent offre un magnifique point de vue sur la forêt, la plaine d’Alsace et par temps clair, la Forêt-Noire. Faites le tour du mur païen, long de 10 kilomètres, qui fait tout le tour du mont Sainte-Odile.

Mont Sainte Odile. Par Ian Coates : https://www.flickr.com/photos/ian94/

Le Mur Païen. Dietrich Krieger — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Odilienberg_6606.jpg

Continuez la journée à  Strasbourg  (40 min), ville d’Art et d’Histoire réputée pour ses édifices exceptionnels. Découvrez la visite par la cathédrale Notre Dame avec sa magnifique façade occidentale gothique en grès rose des Vosges ; la place de la Cathédrale, entourée de beaux édifices anciens comme la pharmacie du Cerf datant du XIIIe siècle ou la maison Kammerzell ; ainsi que le quartier européen qui est le siège de plusieurs organismes, tels que le Conseil de l’Europe, le Parlement européen et le Palais des Droits de l’Homme abritant la Cour européenne des Droits de l’Homme. La ville possède de nombreux musées très intéressants, notamment le palais Rohan qui abrite trois expositions dédiées respectivement à l’Archéologie, aux Beaux-Arts ainsi qu’aux Arts décoratifs. Vous pouvez également visiter le musée de l’œuvre Notre-Dame dans lequel sont présenté des sculptures du Moyen-Âge.

Enfin, terminez votre journée par une agréable promenade dans le quartier de « la petite France ». C’était autrefois la partie de la ville occupés par les artisans : tanneurs et meuniers mais aussi pêcheurs.

Le prix d’entrée à chaque musée est de 6.50€.

Strasbourg. Pierre_Bn: https://www.flickr.com/photos/91111169@N00/

Grande Île-Strasbourg. Par KevinGewinner07 : https://www.flickr.com/photos/119176793@N04/

Passez cette première nuit dans l’un des nombreux logements que vous trouverez à Strasbourg.

Jour 2 : Le Rocher de Dabo – Nancy

Aujourd’hui, visitez le  Rocher de Dabo  (55 min), qui est un bloc rocheux en grès à incrustation de galets, situé à 664 mètres d’altitude, au cœur du massif des Vosges. Une petite Chapelle est perchée à son sommet et deux tableaux illustrent les environs afin de pouvoir se repérer. De la -haut, la fantastique vue panoramique sur le massif vosgien récompense l’ascension des 62 marches qu’il faut gravir pour y parvenir.

Le Rocher de Dabo. Par Alan B : https://www.flickr.com/photos/rdriv3rtcetphotos/

Dabo. Par Alan B : https://www.flickr.com/photos/rdriv3rtcetphotos/

Ensuite, allez visiter  Nancy  (1h25). Ici, vous découvrirez trois grandes périodes. On commence avec le Moyen Âge et la Renaissance avec la vieille ville, ses ruelles autour de la basilique Saint-Epvre et de la porte de la Craffe, ainsi que le musée Lorrain, qui dispose de l’une des plus belles collections de sculptures de France, et les tombeaux des ducs de Lorraine. On continue avec le XVIIIe siècle qui s’illustre avec trois superbes places figurant au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO : la place Stanislas, avec ses magnifiques fontaines et ses grilles signées Jean Lamour, la place de la Carrière et la place d’Alliance. Puis, on termine ce voyage dans le temps dans les années 1900. L’architecture Art nouveau est visible dans certains quartier de Nancy, on le remarque notamment avec le bâtiment de la Chambre de commerce et d’industrie et dans l’emblématique brasserie Excelsior. Ne manquez pas de visiter le musée de l’École de Nancy abrite une collection d’œuvres prestigieuses, et le Museum Aquarium avec ses poissons étranges et sa collection d’animaux naturalisés.

La visite du musée de l’école de Nancy coûte 6€ et le Museum Aquarium coûte 5.10€.

Basilique Saint-Epvre. Par Alexandre Prevot : https://www.flickr.com/photos/alexprevot/

Nancy. Par Jean-Paul Tonnelier : https://www.flickr.com/photos/jpto_55/

Reposez-vous cette nuit à Nancy.

Jour 3 : Metz – Verdun

Ce matin, rendez-vous à  Metz  (45 min). Démarrez votre balade dans la ville en montant sur la colline Sainte-Croix, il s’agit du cœur de la vieille ville, vous pourrez y admirer le jolie cloître de Récollets ainsi que l’église Sainte-Ségolène qui se dresse sur la place jeanne d’Arc. Au détour d’une ruelle vous remarquerez également l’église des trinitaires. Continuez par le quartier médiéval d’Outre-Seille où vous découvrirez la porte des Allemands ; un château fort qui enjambe la Seille et dont les remparts constituent une promenade ; l’église médiévale Saint-Eucaire ; et l’église Saint-Maximin, dont les vitraux sont signés Jean Cocteau. Puis, c’est le quartier des îles avec son opéra-théâtre, le plus ancien en activité en France ; l’abbaye Saint-Clément, siège du Conseil Régional Grand Est ; l’église Saint-Vincent et les nombreux ponts d’architecture classique. Ensuite, continuez par le quartier de la Citadelle qui accueille le palais de Justice ; l’ancienne abbaye royale de Saint-Arnould ; la chapelle des Templiers, construite entre 1180 et 1220 ; et l’église Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, l’une des plus anciennes de France. Terminez votre promenade dans Metz par la place animée de Saint-Louis de style médiévale. Celle-ci se caractérise par une architecture d’inspiration italienne. A l’époque c’était un haut lieu de commerce et l’endroit on l’on échangeait sa monnaie. Non loin, vous trouverez la belle Place d’Armes et la cathédrale Saint-Etienne impressionnant édifice gothique bâti entre le XIIIe et le XVIe siècle.

Metz. Par Richard BURGER : https://www.flickr.com/photos/richard_burger/

Metz2. Par HENRION ALAIN : https://www.flickr.com/photos/54alain2309/

Finissez la journée à  Verdun  (55 min). Plongez dans l’histoire à travers la citadelle souterraine de Verdun. Dans ces galeries creusées entre 1890 et 1893 est installé une exposition qui retrace les moments clés de la Première Guerre Mondiale. Poursuivez votre voyage dans le passé avec le Mémorial de Verdun, ce musée sur plusieurs étages place le visiteur dans la peau d’un soldat durant la gigantesque bataille de Verdun. Continuez la découverte de la ville avec la cathédrale Notre Dame, vous passerez également devant le porte Saint-Paul seul vestige des anciens remparts de la ville. Enfin, visitez l’hôtel de la Princerie, remarquable bâtiment du XVIe siècle, on y trouve le musée d’art et d’histoire de Verdun.

Le prix de la visite à la citadelle souterraine est de 9€, de 11€ pour le mémorial et 3€ pour l’hôtel de la Princerie.

Verdun. Par Marc Ryckaert (MJJR) — Travail personnel, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Verdun_Panorama_R01.jpg

Citadelle souterraine de Verdun. Par Alan B : https://www.flickr.com/photos/rdriv3rtcetphotos/

Passez cette nuit à Verdun.

Jour 4 : Château de Sedan – Asfeld

Pour cette quatrième journée, allez visiter le  Château de Sedan  (1h20). Classé Monument Historique, cet édifice, est avec ses 35 000 m² sur sept niveaux, le plus grand château fort d’Europe. Vous découvrirez au fil de la visite la vie des princes de Sedan, ainsi que le quotidien des soldats et domestiques du château fort au Moyen Âge. L’Historium vous emmène en immersion dans la vie au temps de la principauté de Sedan. Une galerie met en scènes les tâches et activités des habitants à l’époque médiévale.

Cette visite vous coûtera 9.50€.

Château de Sedan. Par uscatu.net : https://www.flickr.com/photos/uscatunet/

Château Fort de Sedan. Par OZinOH : https://www.flickr.com/photos/75905404@N00/

Dans l’après-midi, rendez-vous à  Asfeld  (55 min), où vous découvrirez sa magnifique église. Cette église surprend tant par sa forme en viole de gambe que par son style baroque. Cet édifice insolite se compose d’un péristyle entouré d’une colonnade ajourée, d’un campanile percé de baies cintrées, et d’une rotonde.

Eglise Saint-Didier d’Asfeld. Par Oeil de verre : https://www.flickr.com/photos/oeil-de-verre/

Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-la-Pitié – Asfeld. Par Oeil de verre : https://www.flickr.com/photos/oeil-de-verre/

Prenez un logement dans ce village avant de reprendre la route demain.

Jour 5 : Reims – Bar le Duc

Ce matin, visitez  Reims  (30 min). La ville de Reims est riche d’un patrimoine exceptionnel, elle ne compte pas moins de quatre monuments inscrits à l’UNESCO. Parmi ceux-ci, la cathédrale Notre-Dame emblématique édifice qui a vu l’ensemble des rois de France se faire couronner, à quelques exceptions près. Vous pourrez admirer les détails des superbes statuts finement sculptés qui ornent la cathédrale de style gothique. Visitez ensuite le Palais de Tau qui est attenant à la cathédrale, il s’agit de l’ancienne résidence des archevêques de Reims. Le palais abrite désormais un musée sur la cathédrale de Reims et sur le sacre des rois de France.

Poursuivez votre découverte avec la basilique Saint-Rémi, magnifique bâtisse de style romano-gothique et le musée du même nom que l’on trouve dans l’enceinte de l’ancienne abbaye Saint-Rémi. Un lieu paisible et une architecture remarquable qui vous transporteront à travers l’histoire de Reims. A voir également dans la ville,la place Royale, entourée d’arcades, et la place Drouet-d’Erlon, fort animée par la présence de ses cafés, de ses boutiques et de ses restaurants.

L’entrée au Palais de Tau est à 8€ et à 5€ pour le musée Saint-Rémi.

Cathédrale Reims. Par Ștefan Jurcă : https://www.flickr.com/photos/stefanjurca/

Hôtel de ville de Reims. Par The West End : https://www.flickr.com/photos/thewestend/

Ensuite, reprenez la route direction  Bar le Duc  (1h25). Cette ville, traversée par l’Ornai, est enjambée par sept ponts, et par un canal parallèle artificiel, le canal de la Marne au Rhin, où se pratique le tourisme fluvial. Découvrez l’église gothique Saint-Étienne du XIVe siècle, classée Monument Historique ; la tour de l’Horloge, vestige de l’ancien palais ducal ; le collège Gilles de Trèves, aux belles balustrades de pierres ; et la rue du Bourg, l’une des plus élégantes de la ville. Faites un tour par l’ancien château des Ducs de Bar dans lequel se trouve aujourd’hui le musée Barrois. Enfin, vous pouvez monter au Belvédère des Grangettes, d’où vous attend une jolie vue sur la ville.

La visite du château est au tarif de 4€.

Tour de l’Horloge à Bar-le-Duc. Par Ketounette — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tour_de_l%27Horloge14.jpg

Passez la nuit dans cette charmante ville.

Jour 6 : Langres – Epinal

Aujourd’hui, rendez-vous à  Langres (1h50). Empruntez le chemin de ronde de son enceinte fortifiée, jalonnée de sept portes et de douze tours, qui vous permettra d’admirer de beaux panoramas : le lac de la Liez, la vallée de la Marne, les Vosges, la vallée de la Bonnelle et le plateau de Langres. Vous découvrirez également la tour de Navarre, qui abrite deux salles voûtées et casematées, ainsi qu’une magnifique charpente en bois de châtaignier. En flânant dans les rues de Langres, vous remarquerez les délicates façades de quelques hôtels particuliers, certaines demeures sont de style Renaissance. N’hésitez pas à entrer dans la cathédrale romano-gothique Saint-Mammés pour y découvrir son jolie cloître. Enfin, votre balade vous emmènera probablement sur la place Diderot sur laquelle se dresse une statue de bronze représentant le grand philosophe Denis Diderot né dans la ville de Langres.

La visite de la tour est au tarif de 4€.

Langres. Par Gerard FERON : https://www.flickr.com/photos/gerard-feron/

Tour de Navarre. Par Gerard FERON : https://www.flickr.com/photos/gerard-feron/

Finissez la journée à  Epinal  (1h30). Promenez-vous dans le cœur historique et découvrez la charmante place des Vosges bordée de maisons Renaissance à arcades, dont la maison du Bailli de 1604 ; la basilique Saint Maurice, qui fut longtemps un lieu de pèlerinage ; le marché couvert et le musée du Chapitre. A voir également les vestiges du château médiéval, perchés sur une colline, offre une belle vue sur la ville, et le musée du Chapitre, installé dans une tour médiévale, retrace l’histoire de la ville.

Épinal. Par Paul Cone : https://www.flickr.com/photos/paulcone/

Basilique Saint Maurice. Par Richieman — Travail personnel, Domaine public, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:%C3%89pinal_-_Basilique_Saint-Maurice_02.jpg

Jour 7 : Baccarat

La dernière étape sera  Baccarat  (40 min), qui a bâti sa réputation mondiale sur le travail du cristal. Le musée Baccarat vous invite dans un monde de cristal, on y découvre les processus de fabrications ainsi que des pièces uniques et véritable œuvre d’art. Des lustres aux bijoux le musée expose l’ensemble du savoir-faire de la maison Baccarat. Puis, visitez l’église Saint-Remy qui se distingue par son style moderne, l’intérieur est une surprenante combinaison de bois et de béton dans lesquels sont incrusté des milliers de pièces de cristal. Les vitraux forment des jeux de lumières d’une étonnante beauté donnant au lieu un caractère tout à fait insolite. Ne manquez pas de découvrir les traces de son passé médiéval avec la tour des Voués.

La visite du musée coût 5€.

Église Saint-Remy de Baccarat. Par Aimelaime — Travail personnel, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Baccarat_eglise.JPG

Hôtel de ville de Baccarat. Par youngrobv : https://www.flickr.com/photos/youngrobv/

C’est ici que se termine votre Road trip en Grand Est !

=>  Voir tous les itinéraires

Best Alsace Christmas Markets 2023 Road Trip Guide and Itinerary

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Last updated on September 12th, 2023 at 07:55 pm

A re you curious how you can see the most charming Christmas markets in Europe all in one incredible itinerary? Well, the answer is a dreamy road trip through Alsace for Christmas. The Alsace region in France is teeming with charming villages that come to life with cozy Christmas markets each holiday season. The best way to get to the small festive towns hosting Christmas markets is to rent a car for an Alsace Christmas market road trip. During our epic Alsace Christmas market road trip itinerary, my friends and I visited about a dozen Alsace Christmas markets and stayed in some adorable historic towns. My Alsace Christmas market guide and itinerary will ensure you have the best week in Alsace exploring Christmas markets and supporting small local businesses. This post has been updated for 2023.

This post will guide you through planning the best road trip to experience all the Alsace Christmas markets, from the large ones in Strasbourg, Colmar, and Mulhouse to the small and charming ones in Eguisheim and even the alternative ones in Kingersheim. I’ve included some driving and car rental tips to help you prepare for navigating small historic towns and busy Christmas markets with a car in Alsace. As always, I give you information to give back this holiday season with eco-friendly tips, ways to support local artisans, and the best vegetarian food to eat!  

Note: Our actual itinerary was slightly different than the one I recommend here, and that is because I lived and learned. The final result is an adjusted itinerary considering all the things I wish I had known – but thankfully can pass along to you. 

Don’t forget to pin this to your favorite European Christmas market planning board! Looking for more Alsace, Christmas Market Content? Then don’t miss:

• 2 Day Colmar Christmas market itinerary, including surrounding villages
• An extensive guide to Strasbourg’s alternative and sustainable Christmas markets
• Everything you need to know about visiting the Mulhouse Christmas markets

WHAT WE’RE COVERING

Sustainable Tips

Road Trip Tips

Stop 1: Obernai Christmas Market

Stop 2: Colmar & Nearby Villages

Stop 3: Eguisheim & Turckheim

Stop 4: Mulhouse & Nearby Villages

Stop 5: Strasbourg Christmas Markets

Discuss and share.

• Alsace is known to have some of the best Christmas markets in the world, including the Christmas capital of Europe
• With dozens of charming and historic villages hosting markets, a road trip through Alsace is the best way to see them all
• I spent a week scoping out the best markets by car and feature them all in this 7 day Alsace road trip itinerary
• As always I have the best sustainable tips for a mindful Christmas experience.

Sustainable Tips for Alsace Christmas Market Road Trip

To prepare for a mindful road trip to the Alsace Christmas markets, make sure you pack:

• Reusable shopping bag – you’ll do lots of shopping – and I know you already have one at home, so you don’t have to buy a new one while traveling. 
• Reusable utensils because you’ll be eating a lot of food!
• Bring an umbrella, so you don’t have to buy a second one!
• Check out my packing guide to German Christmas markets , which is similar and has winter items featuring sustainable brands. 

Use the Pfand System

The Alsace Christmas markets do a good job of encouraging recycling the Vin Chaud or mulled wine cups. When you purchase Vin Chaud, you will pay an extra Euro for the cup, but don’t worry, you’ll get the money back when you return the cup. Make use of this system, and don’t mindlessly toss your mug in the trash. Aren’t circular economies the best? They are great for the economy and environment!

Avoid Glitter and Plastic

Look for things that are glitter and plastic-free. We even found a lot of great booths selling upcycled and recycled items. Comsumable items such as foods, jams, wine and snacks are another great way to purchase without adding to clutter. You can also think of gifts that you will likely use all year – or all winter like a nice new set of knit hat and gloves.

Shop and Support Local

The Christmas markets in Alsace were primarily local handmade goods, which is excellent. However, there were some cheaply made mass-produced items in the mix. Make sure you shop and support local artisans. Ask the vendor where the products come from or check the label. 

You’ll find bio wine, cheese, and other delights at many markets. Supporting bio produce helps local farmers and our friendly pollinators.  

Vegan and Vegetarian Food

The French are not known for their vegan food, so it is pretty hard to find many meatless options at the Alsace Christmas markets, but they do exist! There was always at least one stand selling a vegetarian option. I found the most common foods: tomato, mushroom, cheese baguettes, veggie Tarte flambee, potatoes in all shapes and sizes, tapenade, and vegan soup. Just keep looking until you find something, but I recommend always having a veggie or vegan snack handy just in case you get angry.

Invest in Carbon Removal

Keep an eye on your mileage. At the end of your trip, you can offset your carbon or sign up for an ongoing carbon capture program via Tomorrow’s Air.

Alsace Road Trip Tips

Renting a car.

The best place to start your Alsace Christmas market road trip is in the capital of Strasbourg. If you already live in Europe, you’ll first travel by train to reduce your carbon output. 

If you are coming from outside of Europe, the best way to reach Strasbourg is to fly direct into any major hub , including Munich, Paris, or Geneva, and then navigate by train to Strasbourg .    

Before you arrive in Strasbourg, you should already have your car rental organized . I recommend renting from Sixt or Avis, as we had an awful experience with Enterprise. They gave away our car and did not try to remedy the problem. We traveled at the end of November, and vehicles seemed to be already booked, so make sure you plan ahead and pick up your car on time. 

I recommend booking your train travel with Omio as they allow you to book with major train companies all in one easy to understand English booking system.

When renting a car, ensure you have the legal items such as the yellow vest and a flare required by French law. You’ll also need to ensure you have insurance, a driver’s license, and emergency numbers. The Alsace wine region gets snowy, and if you want to go to some of the small towns, it is helpful to have snow or all-season tires and be comfortable driving in snow. You may also encounter small, narrow, and one-way cobblestone streets.

The Alsace Christmas markets are very popular, and there is a lot of competition for parking. Fortunately, some of the markets had parking lots set up just for the markets. However, there were times we could not find parking, and with terrible congestion, we had to skip of one of the markets on our list. I suggest you plan to park outside the towns, prepare to walk in, and always look for free large parking areas before arriving. 

Have a Designated Driver

We passed through several markets during the day and drove to one market at night. There were three of us on our trip, and we always had a sober driver to get us home safely. It can be tempting to drink your share of Vin Chaud, but the roads can be pretty dangerous in winter. 

When to Plan Your Alsace Christmas Itinerary

IMPORTANT: It is very tricky to visit all the markets I have listed here – in fact, near impossible with seven days or less. Pay attention to the dates! Some markets are only open on weekends, while others are only open a few days in December. You will likely need to choose if you want to visit the small villages surrounding Colmar, such as Kaysersberg, or if Pfaffstatt near Mulhouse looks more interesting to you, as you can’t be in two places at once. Don’t stress though, all these towns are decorated for Advent, and even if you miss the official market, you’ll have a great time exploring and passing through. 

This itinerary is meant to be a loose guide to help you see as many markets as possible and choose which ones you want to prioritize. You can also just go with the flow like we did and not stress about which markets are open. We enjoyed some of the towns’ festive decorations even if the vendors of the Christmas market were closed.

I suggest starting in Obernai on a Thursday or Friday in December to see all three villages around Colmar over the weekend.  Do not plan your trip too close to Christmas as most markets are closed.

Stop 1: Obernai Christmas Markets

We chose to save Strasbourg for the end, so as soon as we picked up the car, we headed straight for Obernai to spend the night. I suggest you spend a full day in Obernai and one night. 

Obernai Christmas Markets

There are four markets in total, but they are all very close together and within walking distance. It helps that the town is decked out to the max with Christmas cheer, so I encourage you to explore beyond the markets, enjoying the town bursting with festive decorations. 

Autour de Beffroi

Obernai is known for its gourmet food. So, it is no wonder that my favorite Obernai Christmas market , Autour de Beffroi, is a gastronomic delight. Tucked behind the bell tower, this is every foodie’s dream. You’ll find dozens of stalls selling local artisanal cheese, honey, wine, beer, pastries, and more. This is the market to support local producers and farmers. We enjoyed chatting with a man from Provence who spends his days perfecting delectable picketed onions and vegetarian tapenade. We stocked up on tapenade and baguettes for the road trip. 

Place du Marché

The main market is located at Obernai’s central square, Place du Marché . The feature highlight is a tall, glittering tree, a few rides, and a handful of stalls. The market has a handful of booths with vendors selling hand-crafted items such as hand-blown glass, wreaths, and wooden decorations. 

Place de L’Etoile

For those traveling with families, they will want to visit Place de L’Etoile for rides and opportunities to meet Santa. 

Place Nehrer

Just outside the city wall is a market at Place Nehrer where you’ll find a model village and lots of Christmas sweets.   The best way to get there is along Rue du Marché to see the houses decorated with teddy bears and gaudy decorations.  

2023 Obernai Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24, 2021, to December 31, 2023 
• Mon – Thurs: 10 am – 7 pm 
• Fri – Sun 10 am – 8 pm. 
• The market is closed on Christmas Day and has limited hours on the 24th and 31st. 

Special Christmas Events in Obernai

Obernai has many special events, including Christmas concerts in December and the town’s impromptu appearances of Christmas characters such as Santa and St. Nick. Christmas carols and stories happen on the days surrounding Christmas. Ask your accommodation for the events during your stay. 

Where to Stay in Obernai for Christmas

We stayed in the Hotel la Diligence , a charming, locally owned hotel in an authentic timber building in the middle of town. You can see the main Obernai market from most of the windows. The staff was lovely, and the accommodation was comfortable and decorated for the holidays. Our hotel was the white building in the photo below! 

Where to Park

You can park for free overnight at any street parking spot. However, at 9 a.m., if you are still there in the morning, you might get charged. A free parking lot called Parking Remparts is just outside the city walls. 

What to Eat for Vegetarians

If you’re not eating at the market, Obernai has many great food options. Try L’Eden Libre de Gluten for vegetable soup and gluten-free pastries. For lunch, I recommend BioGourmands, an organic vegetarian restaurant with many healthy, fresh dining options. For dinner, I recommend La Cour de Meme , which has a vegan Tarte flambée. 

Stop 2: Colmar, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Kaysersberg Christmas Markets

After leaving Obernai in the morning, we headed toward Eguisheim, where we stayed for two nights. Along the way, we stopped in Colmar for the entire day before moving on to Enguisheim and other villages. However, in hindsight, I would recommend staying in Colmar, parking your car and leaving it there, and taking advantage of the Colmar Christmas Market Shuttle, which runs on the weekend. Therefore, I suggest visiting this area over the weekend to take full advantage of this experience, as some markets are open only on weekends. However, if you are adverse to crowds, visit this area during the week and enjoy the Christmas decorations around the smaller villages. You’ll want two full days in Colmar.

I have created an incredibly detailed guide to the Colmar Christmas markets and an itinerary to visit the villages of Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Kaysersber for their Christmas markets. I cover all the Colmar markets in detail including how to use the Christmas market shuttle, so head over to that post and pin it to help you make the most of your time in Colmar. 

Colmar Christmas Markets

There are 6 markets in Colmar, each with a different theme, so exploring these markets in full will take up most of your day. Colmar markets are known for “art and tradition,” You’ll find plenty of hand-crafted art pieces intertwined with traditional food and gifts. The Colmar markets and winding streets are covered in white Christmas trees and decorations for a modern and upscale feeling. 

Gourmet Market Star – My favorite market in Colmar was a new addition in 2018 and an excellent option for a mindful road trip in Alsace. Nine different stalls at this market serve hot, local, and fresh gourmet food. Make sure to skip the unethical Foie Gras and opt for the vegetarian truffle risotto. 

Indoor Craft Market – Another top contender for my favorite market, the indoor craft market is the best place to get handmade crafts. The fine selection of ceramics, jewelry, home goods, glass ornaments, and wood crafts will make a special and unique gift for yourself or a loved one. The craft market is located in an old medieval building for the perfect setting – save your money for this one. 

Place Jeanne d’Arc is a more traditional market featuring the best of Alsace. You’ll find plenty of artisanal local foods and drinks such as schnapps, cheese, biscuits, and wine. It is a great place to grab snacks for the road or something to serve on Christmas day. I recommend visiting this market later in the evening or at night, as the snow-covered huts light up at night. 

The other two markets at the Dominican Square and Place de L’Ancienne Douane are more traditional. You’ll find essential Christmas decorations and plenty of Christmas market foods such as potato pancakes, Tarte flambee, and Vin Chaud. While they weren’t my favorite markets, they have a nice historic setting near the Dominican church, the Schwendi fountain, and the old customs house. There is also a kid’s market for those traveling with families. 

2023 Colmar Market Dates and Times

• November 23 – December 29, 2023
• Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 7 pm
• Friday – Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm
• Limited hours on Dec 24-26

Special Christmas Events in Colmar

Colmar has plenty of special events for Christmas, including children’s choirs, concerts, and guided tours of the Christmas markets at dusk. 

Where to Stay in Colmar for Christmas

Colmar has lots of options, from modern boutiques to historic luxury. While we didn’t stay there for this trip, I know the area well and have picked a few spots ideal for your Alsace Christmas Market road trip. 

•   La Maison des Têtes is a luxury five-star hotel in historic Colmar oozing charm. This is the whole package, and you get what you pay for. Parking is available near the hotel for a fee.  
• Le Rapp Hotel is in a great location and includes a spa. Private parking is available.
• Paul + Pia is a colorful alternative boutique hote l just outside the city, perfect for those who don’t like staying near all the crowds. The hotel is near a parking garage. 

Where to Park in Colmar

 St. Joseph’s church has free parking; however, you must walk a bit to access the old town. There is paid parking lot located close to the old town. All my hotel recommendations have parking options as well. 

Where to Eat for Vegetarians

The gourmet Christmas market here has some of the city’s best food, including a few vegetarian options, so I recommend stuffing your face with truffle risotto or vegetarian crepes. If you are looking for vegan food, Tabula Rasa is the best spot, and L’Arpège has a highly-rated  vegetarian menu. 

After exploring Colmar, you’ll want to head to all the charming surrounding villages the next day. 

Riquewihr Christmas Market

Riquewihr is one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it comes alive during Christmas. Visit Christmas vendors nestled under traditional timber houses. This quaint town lights up for Christmas, and you’ll enjoy sipping Vin Chaud meandering through a historic town.  Unfortunately, we missed our opportunity to visit Riquewihr, one of our biggest travel fails. We saw the outside of the city, which looked so freakin’ cute. To avoid the same mistakes we made, make sure you read my full Colmar Christmas market guide. 

2023 Riquewihr Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 25 – Dec 21, 2023
• Sat-Sun: 10 am – 7:30 pm
• Mon – Fri: 10 am – 6:30  pm
• All lights shut off at 10 pm to save energy

Parking and traffic are a nightmare. While plenty of park space is on the outskirts of town, it can fill up quickly. We missed our chance to visit due to traffic, so I recommend the Colmar shuttle.

Special Christmas Events in Riquewihr

The Men’s choir will sing on December 1, 2023

Ribeauvillé Christmas Market

Ribeauvillé is a medieval town that genuinely goes all out for Christmas. Although crowded, this was one of the most charming stops. The village goes all out, embracing the Medieval spirit as street performers and musicians parade around the streets in traditional clothing. At dusk, creatures from fairytales come out and haunt the streets.  You’ll feel transported back in time as vendors wear medieval costumes, sell Vin Chaud in chalices, and serve hearty stews. This festival isn’t so vegetarian-friendly, but you’ll be able to find some soups, bread, and sweets hidden among the roast pig.  

The Christmas market dates are very limited, and while we visited the town, it wasn’t on the market date. Don’t stress too much, though; the town is very festive for the whole season, and you will enjoy meandering the streets and window shopping at some of the local stores.

2023 Ribeauvillé Christmas Market Dates and Times

• December 2-3, 2023
• December 9-10, 2023
• Sat: 10 am – 7 pm
• Sun: 10 am – 6 pm
• Advent decorations in the city from November 25 – December 20, 2023

Where to park

We parked here , but I recommend taking the shuttle if it works out for you. 

Kaysersberg Christmas Markets

There are two markets in Kayersberg, but the entire town of Kaysersberg feels like a Christmas market. All the local shops and stores decorate for Christmas, and you can do plenty of holiday shopping with or without the markets. Take some time to hike to the Kaysersberg castle for a lovely view and check out the fairy tale exhibit. 

Marché Noel is tucked away in a little alleyway behind Eglise St. Croix In the shadow of the impressive cathedral. Vendors from 30 market stalls sell mostly unique handmade gifts. I bought a ring made from upcycled paper.

Farmer’s Christmas Market  The farmer’s market features some of the best Alsatian delicacies packaged for Christmas. That day, I was the designated driver, so I drank plenty of apple cider while my friends tried the wine. This is a great place to buy local honey, cheese, spirits, and more. 

2023 Kaysersberg Christmas Market Dates and Times

• Fridays – Sundays starting Nov 24 and ending Dec 17, 2023
• Bonus days: Dec 18-19, 2023
• Advent decorations in the city from November 24 – December 29, 2023
• Hours: 10 am – 8 pm

If you decide not to take the shuttle and visit on your way to Eguisheim, park at a large gravel pit just for Christmas market parking around this location . We did have to walk just a bit to get to Kaysersberg. 

We didn’t eat much here as we packed some snacks and had dinner in Eguisheim. But, the Farmer’s market had some vegetarian Tarte flambée. L’Alchémille is a fine dining experience in which you can request vegetarian food. According to Google Maps, Restaurant Au Lion d’Or has a vegetarian and vegan menu. 

Stop 3: Eguisheim and Turckheim Christmas Markets 

We stayed in Eguisheim for two nights and used it as a launching point to explore the region. The drive from Colmar to Eguisheim is a quick drive. However, I suggest detouring a mountain pass to look at the region’s history and panoramic views of Alsace. From Colmar, navigate first to Pflixbourg Castle, then Hohlandsbourg Castle, Hagueneck Castle, Three Castles of Eguisheim , and finally Eguisheim, where you will spend the evening. 

Eguisheim Christmas Market

Eguisheim won the “Cities and Villages of Christmas” award, honoring authentic towns and heritage that light up with the Christmas spirit each year. While the market is rather small, the cozy ambiance and authentic feel made this easily one of my favorite stops on our Alsace Christmas market tour.

Eguisheim’s only Christmas market is in the heart of the old town in St. Leon Square – tucked in, right below the chapel. Pass through the festive gate off Grand-Rue and enter an unbearably cute market oozing warm, festive feelings. Eguisheim prides itself on selling traditional hand-crafted gifts and gourmet delicacies. With more than 30 stalls, there is a little something for everyone. Don’t miss the area around the St. Leon fountain for decorations and a nativity scene. 

2023 Eguisheim Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24 – Dec 30, 2023
• Hours TBA, but the 2022 hours were as follows
• Sun-Fri: 9 am – 7 pm 
• Sat: 9 am – 8 pm 
• Closed December 24-26, 2023 

Christmas Wine Experience 

Alsace is known for its wine, and you’ll probably have noticed the rolling vineyards during your road trip. Well, make sure to stop by any of the vineyards and wine cellars in town and ask for a recommendation to pair with your Christmas meal – or to enjoy back at your accommodation. I recommend Leon Beyer, Wines of Alsace, or Domaine Emile Beyer. 

Special Christmas Events in Eguisheim

Most evenings, a night Watchman accompanied by musicians will tell you stories of Eguisheim’s history. 

The Procession of Lights in honor of St. Lucie will likely happen on December 13, 2023, though the official dates are not announced. This is a parade through the town, where you can take a lantern and follow Christkindl and angels in a magical experience. 

Before the market closes for Christmas, there is a live nativity and story experience featuring stories from Hans Christian Andersen.

Where to Stay in Eguisheim for Christmas

One of the highlights of our entire Alsace road trip was staying in a yellow  timber house along a cobblestone street in Eguisheim. I can not recommend the place we stayed in enough. This cozy blue timber house has a rustic charm while providing all the modern conveniences. We were excited to hole up here for two full nights and pretend to live in a Christmas fairy tale. 

The place we stayed was a historic choice, which, to us, added to the charm. However, if you want something more modern, I would check out this place down the road or t his option, which is more accessible for those unable to climb steep stairs – as we had some very steep stairs in our house.

While my recommended accommodation, Notre Maison, technically had parking, entering and exiting was a terrifying nightmare. The parking hole was along a TINY one-way cobbled street, and it took expert driving skills to get in and out. To save yourself a world of stress and panic, I suggest paid parking outside of town. Trust me, it is not worth saving a few extra bucks.  

There is also a Town Hall car park and Marronniers, which are paid but likely to fill up. There is also La Tuilerie Car Park and Millenaire Car Park, which are free but far away. 

Where to eat for Vegetarians

With two vegetarians in our road trip crew, we ate at Restaurant Dagsbourg both nights and enjoyed the heck out of our cheese pizza. This place is super casual, and the wait staff is very friendly. For breakfast, I recommend Marx Bakery for croissants and coffee. 

Turckheim Christmas Markets

Turckheim Christmas market is a small but adorable market you simply can not miss on your Alsace Christmas road trip. I recommend visiting this market in the afternoon as you’ll want to be there well before 5 pm for a special event! We arrived at this market too early in the day and season and were super bummed to miss some of the events. 

Before heading into Turckheim, enjoy a slow morning in Eguisheim, grabbing a pastry and making coffee before driving to the adorable town of Niedermorschwihr to visit Castle Winick. While this town isn’t particularly Christmassy, the timber houses here are picturesque, and the views of the surrounding vineyards are stunning. After a little exploration, head to Turckheim to catch the Advent goblins before returning to Eguisheim for a second night. 

Marché Noel

Turckheim has only one market in the town square near the town hall. This market has a unique design in that all the stalls are built to look like cartoon Christmas huts. I think the concept is that this is a village built by elves or goblins. What makes this market so unique is the massive advent calendar. The calendar is part of three Christmas houses, each with eight doors. Every day in December, a new door opens, revealing a surprise. This is part of a show that happens in the evening, and a story is told alongside the surprise reveal. 

I wasn’t super impressed with the stalls. While there were some cute handmade souvenirs, most of the stuff wasn’t to my taste. But we did arrive very early in the season (late November), and some of them hadn’t even opened yet. Instead of shopping, I enjoyed a warm vegetarian bread bowl and local craft beer. The appeal to me here was the special events, the cute town, and the unique theme of the market. 

2023 Turckheim Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24 – December 30, 2023
• Hours TBA, but 2022 hours were as follows:
• Fri, Sat, Sun: 10 am – 7 pm
• Mon-Thur: 2 pm – 7 pm
• Closed Christmas Day

Special Christmas Events in Turckheim

Every day in December at 5 p.m., a street lamp light opens the Advent calendar. There is then storytelling regarding the theme of the revealed image. This is a great way to learn about the region’s history. 

Every night at 9 p.m., the night watchman walks through the streets to wish everyone a good night. You are welcome to join, and on NYE, there is a special song and well wishes for the new year. 

Parking was a bit iffy, and make sure not to drive through the historical center, or you’ll regret it. We finally found some free parking , but it will likely be hectic during the peak holiday season. 

I had a great tomato soup in a bread bowl from one of the market stalls. Husser bakery had some vegetarian quiche and excellent pastries. We stopped in for a hot cup of coffee. 

Stop 4: Thann, Guebwiller, and Mulhouse Christmas Markets 

As we drove from Eguisheim to Mulhouse, where we stayed one night, we stopped by all the small markets between the two towns. Honestly, this made for a jam-packed day and night. If you prefer slower travel, book two nights in Mulhouse. After leaving Eguisheim, our first stop was the Cernay-Thann region, then several markets in the Mulhouse suburbs, and finally, the Guebwiller Bleu Nöel. By the time we checked into our hotel in Mulhouse to explore the Christmas markets there, it was late evening. Thankfully, the Mulhouse market is open late, and we also had some time the next morning to explore the markets again. 

Thann Christmas Market

The Thann Christmas Market hosts the main event for the entire Cernay-Thann region. I want to point out that there is no Christmas market in Cernay, despite what we were led to believe. Anyway, the festivities in Thann cover three market areas spread through the city: Place Joffre, Place St. Thiébaut, and Place de Lattre de Tassigny.

We entered our first market along Place du Bungert, welcomed through a festive tunnel with Christmas lights and decorations. The market stalls were full of unique handmade goods along with traditional souvenirs. We all bought hand-knit hats and gloves to keep us warm throughout the season. We meandered through Thann, checking out the other smaller markets.

2022 Thann Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24 – Dec 24, 2023
• Tue-Fri: 2 pm – 7 pm
• Sat-Sun: 10 am – 7 pm
• Closed Mondays

Special Christmas Events in Thann

Two Sundays in December, Santa and his elves repel down the bell tower of the main church at dusk and give candy to children. 

The highlight of the Thann Christmas market is all the decorated trees. There are about 17 in total, and they are just about everywhere as you explore the market stalls. You’ll notice each one is decorated differently, honoring traditions from each of the 17 towns in the region. The queen of them all is the largest, representing Thann, and it is located by the church.

We parked at a free parking lot . We didn’t need too much time since we only spent a few hours here . 

Thann had an unconventional stand selling vegetarian Pad Thai and spring rolls. Honestly, this was a welcome break from some Christmas foods and the perfect snack to keep us going all day. 

Guebwiller Christmas Market

Guebwiller is known as the Blue Christmas Market. The town lights up with a blue hue as their Christmas tree and cathedral all embrace the cool trend. Why Blue? Nöel Bleu honors a local ceramic artist who uses blue in their pieces. Guebwiller has only one Christmas market, which is split into two areas. 

Beside St. Léger church shines a bright blue Christmas tree and a handful of Christmas market stalls and rides for kids. An immersive LED display is projected onto the church for an eye-capturing, blue experience. All this sets the mood as you shop for handmade gifts. 

As you walk to the next market area, ensure you don’t miss the Town Hall lit with iconic blue lights. An eco-friendly ice skating rink is the center of the show. The rink uses minimal energy and a progressive material that isn’t ice. I’ve tried one of these rinks before, and don’t worry – they are just as fun! That isn’t the only eco-friendly thing on the market. Guebwiller is known for its bio produce and gourmet foods, and many of the stalls here sell bioproducts for an eco-friendly Christmas!

2023 Guebwiller Christmas Market Dates and Times

• Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays only 
• Starting Nov 25 and ending Nov 24, 2023
• Wed, Sat, Sun: 3 pm – 8 pm

Special Christmas Events in Guebwiller

Every weekend, a parade of lights down the main road connects the two areas of the Christmas market. Fire dancers, an LED light show, and street performers put on an electric festive display. The event happens after dark. There is also an ice skating rink at the central square. 

We struggled to find parking. To be honest, traffic was a hot mess in this small town. We finally found parking near the main church , but it took several go-arounds and navigating one-way streets. I would suggest parking outside the city a bit and walking to town.

Mulhouse Christmas Market

I wrote a comprehensive guide to the Mulhouse, Pfaffstatt, and Kingersheim Christmas markets . Head to that post, pin it to your European Christmas market planning board or bookmark the page. I share all the best tips for visiting the market and how to see all three in one go.  

The main market takes over the Place de la Réunion, with hundreds of festive stalls selling food, Vin Chaud, handmade, and your standard gifts. The decorations and lights at this market are top-notch, and you might notice that the lights and decorations have a similar theme. Mulhouse is a textile producer, and a new Christmas fabric is debuted each year. This fabric pattern has become the theme of the market. You can buy this textile at the textile hut in the Town Hall. It is traditional to turn it into pillows, curtains, and other household items. 

Another highlight is a massive Ferris wheel that takes you high enough to see the tip-top of the Temple St. Étienne.  

2023 Mulhouse Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24 – December 27, 2023
• Mon – Thurs 11:00 am – 8 pm
• Friday: 11:00 am – 9 pm
• Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm
• Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm

Special Christmas Events in Mulhouse

Guided tours happen every Saturday at 5 p.m. Tours are only in French and start at 5 Place Lambert.

Where to Stay in Mulhouse

The hotel we stayed at in Mulhouse closed and is now owned by another company. However, the new hotel’s design looks similar, and the latest property has good reviews. The best part is that we could essentially walk out the front door, and within a couple of steps, we were at the Christmas market. I can comfortably recommend La Maison Hotel Mulhouse Center .

The hotel has secure parking in a nearby garage for about 2 euros. It was easy to access and an excellent location for the hotel and the Christmas market. 

I ate vegetarian Tarte flambee from one of the Christmas market stalls. Mulhouse is a bigger city with plenty of vegetarian restaurants, including PUR, Bio Fresh, and La Tambouille de Nainbus.

Pfastatt Christmas Market

The Pfastatt Christmas Market is a medium-sized community market on the outskirts of Mulhouse. The market is tucked away, and the ambiance feels like you’re inside a secret elf forest. The locals were very welcoming, and we even found ourselves in the middle of a French trivia contest. Several community halls you enter are filled with tables and locals selling their handy crafts.  

2023 Pfastatt Christmas Market Dates

• November 24-26, 2023
• December 1-3, 2023
• Friday: 4 pm – 8 pm
• Saturday: 11 am – 8 pm
• Sunday: 11 am – 7 pm

Kingersheim Christmas Market

The Kingersheim Christmas Market is ideal for the eco-conscious Christmas enthusiast. The entire market contains recycled, upcycled, and sustainably made local products. Before you enter, there is a thrift store where you can purchase second-hand clothing as a gift – or for yourself. The decorations, such as snowmen made from recycled bicycles, are the icing on the cake.

2023 Kingersheim Christmas Market Dates

• 2023 dates TBA . The following are the dates and times for 2022.
• November 25 – 27, 2022
• Sunday: 10 am – 6 pm

After Mulhouse, you can jump on the A35 highway and hightail it north toward Strasbourg, returning your car. We stayed for two nights, and you definitely need at least that, as Strasbourg is known as the Christmas Market Capital, and it is massive. 

You might want to stop in Sélestat on the way back to Strasbourg. It is the birthplace of the Christmas tree. While there is no official market, you’ll find festive decorations and tributes to the Christmas tree, ice skating, holiday lights, and more!

I write an incredibly detailed post to spend an alternative Christmas in Strasbourg focused on sustainability and unique markets and events. Please read and save that guide to your Alsace Christmas market road trip planning itinerary boards. The below is just a summary of that post. 

Strasbourg Christmas Markets

Strasbourg has the oldest Christmas market in France, and the entire city comes alive with 300 market stalls spread throughout 11 different markets. I have an entire detailed guide and itinerary to Strasbourg Christmas markets ; make sure you save the post to enjoy a sustainable Christmas in Strasbourg.  

If you are a fan of my hipster travel guides, you’ll love the Off-Market. This sustainable market is all about upcycling, recycling, and sustainable gifting. You’ll find a unique Christmas tree that doubles as an interactive art installation. This almost has a burning man vibe, and I thoroughly enjoyed looking through bio goods and sustainable gifts. 

The International Guest Christmas Market at Place Gutenberg hosts a different country yearly. When I visited in 2019, it was hosted by Lebanon. We enjoyed eating authentic vegan Lebanese food and the cultural blend of Lebanese and French Christmas.

You’ll want to visit the Small Producers of Alsace market at Place des Meuniers for local gourmet food and gifts. This cozy and rather small market is tucked away and features local artists and producers of the region. This is perfect for your authentic gift. Another option is the Alsatian Delicacies Market at Place du Marche-des-Poissons . This market runs along the river and features different wine, cheese, and meat producers from Alsace. We enjoyed coming here for sunset and watching the river ignite with lights while drinking local wine. 

The primary market might be the one at Place de la Cathédrale. While this wasn’t the most fantastic market in terms of authentic goods, the ambiance of the massive cathedra and bright lights makes this one of the most awe-inspiring markets in Europe. This is the “Wow, I’m in Europe for Christmas markets. 

The oldest market is the Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie . This is where I ate most, chowing down on fried potato cakes covered in stinky Alsace Munster cheese. Otherwise, the market is a bit tacky and dated, with old carnival-looking stalls and cheap goods.  

2023 Strasbourg Christmas Market Dates and Times

• November 24, 2023 – December 24, 20223
• Closed Christmas day
• Opening Day: 2 pm-9:30 pm
• Everyday: 11:30 am – 9 pm
• Christmas Eve: 11:30 am – 6 pm

Special Christmas Events in Strasbourg

Strasbourg has many special events, including concerts, community events, DIY workshops, festive bike rides, and more! The program for 2022 is not out yet, but I’ll update you when it is published. 

Where to Stay in Strasbourg for Christmas

We stayed at an ultra-hip hotel that we just loved. Hotel Kaijii by Happy Culture is an affordable and modern hotel in the heart of all the action. We enjoyed our two nights. With an on-site bar, restaurant, and comfortable beds, we enjoyed our 2 nights! There is parking available at a nearby garage for a small fee. But I suggest you return your car as soon as you arrive to save money.

Strasbourg has plenty of vegetarian options. Ensure you visit the Off Market and International Market for tasty vegan food. The area around Off Market also has some great options, including Vélicious Burger, among other places. 

Looking for more European Christmas market inspiration? Head over and check out my guides to Christmas in Munich and beyond!

Book a Tour!

Short on time? Then, book a tour from Strasbourg to taste the Alsace Christmas markets in one day.

I hope this dreamy Alsace Christmas market road trip itinerary helps you plan the perfect Christmas tour through one of France’s most charming regions. A road trip through Alsace during the Advent season allows you to visit quaint villages for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Alsace is known as the Christmas capital of the world, and if you love Christmas, then spending more than a week slow traveling through the region is one for the bucket list. 

• Is an Alsace Christmas market road trip something you’ve dreamed of?
• Which town or village would be your favorite place to visit?

Plan Your Entire European Christmas Market Adventure!

Looking for more German and European Christmas market content? Don’t miss:

• My guide to Munich’s Christmas markets
• Vegan and Vegetarian Christmas market food
• Sustainable Christmas Market Guide to Strasbourg
• Colmar Christmas market itinerary
• Mulhouse Christmas market guide
• 7-day Alsace Christmas market itinerary

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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13 comments.

Now this is my kind of road trip! I haven’t been to any Christmas markets in France before, but this area looks like there are some incredible ones to go to. I’d be eating all of that food.

Alsace, France is one of the best places for Christmas markets – perfect for a road trip.

The towns look adorable decked out with all of their Christmas decorations! I also love how you included a bunch of food items available at each market. I try not to collect too many things during my travels, and thus food is my go-to option at any market I visit.

I am all about eating my way through Christmas markets! The ones in Alsace have lots of great foodie options.

I’m so glad I came across this post because Alsace is one of my winter travel dreams! Your photos are magical. I really love that you included sustainable tips as well – I need to get my hands on some reusable utensils!

I hope you are able to make it to France’s beautiful Christmas markets in the Alsace region. It really is a dream trip – and so much good food that those utensils come in handy.

What an amazing Christmas market post! Loads of great detail in here and it looks beautiful!

It is easily one of the best places in the world for Christmas markets

Wow! They all look so good. I love Christmas market and those seem soo dreamy! On my bucket list for next year as thus year I am in Bali. Great Post!

Hope you are enjoying Bali this holiday season – Alsace Christmas markets are definitely in your future!

So much Christmas joy in one post! :) Eguisheim looks like it has a beautiful Christmas market! Thanks for mentioning veggie/vegan food! It’s always a mini struggle walking through Christmas markets as a vegan haha

Gotta always have that veggie snack on hand, but thankfully there were quite a few options here and there! Hope you make it to the Eguisheim Christmas market someday soon.

That sounds so much fun to do a road-trip in the Alsace region and go to a bunch of different Christmas markets. It’s super helpful how you organized this post with all the needed information for each stop. Having the dates and highlights for each market really helps with planning.

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Top 5 des itinéraires pour votre road trip en Alsace avec un van aménagé

Introduction.

L'Alsace, région riche en paysages variés et en traditions, est une destination idéale pour un road trip mémorable. Opter pour la location d'un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace vous permet de profiter pleinement de cette expérience unique, en bénéficiant de la liberté de mouvement, de l'immersion dans la nature et de la flexibilité des itinéraires. Découvrez les 5 itinéraires sélectionnés pour vous, qui vous feront découvrir les charmes et les trésors cachés de l'Alsace.

Itinéraire 1: Route des Vins d'Alsace

La Route des Vins d'Alsace est l'un des itinéraires les plus célèbres et les plus appréciés de la région. S'étirant sur plus de 170 kilomètres entre Marlenheim et Thann, cette route pittoresque vous emmène à travers les paysages vallonnés et les vignobles, témoignant de l'importance de la viticulture en Alsace. En parcourant la Route des Vins, vous aurez l'occasion de visiter certains des plus beaux villages d'Alsace, comme Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim et Riquewihr. Ces villages typiques, avec leurs maisons à colombages et leurs rues pavées, sont un véritable voyage dans le temps et vous feront découvrir le charme authentique de l'Alsace. Profitez de cette escapade pour déguster les vins de la région et découvrir les spécialités locales. Les vignerons se feront un plaisir de vous accueillir dans leurs domaines et de vous faire goûter leurs productions, comme le célèbre Gewurztraminer ou le Riesling. N'oubliez pas de savourer également les plats typiques tels que la choucroute, le baeckeoffe ou encore les tarte flambées. La Route des Vins d'Alsace compte également plusieurs sites incontournables à visiter, tels que le château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, un majestueux château médiéval situé sur un éperon rocheux, et le Mont Sainte-Odile, un lieu de pèlerinage et de recueillement offrant une vue imprenable sur la plaine d'Alsace. Pour profiter pleinement de cet itinéraire, rien de mieux que de louer un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace. Vous bénéficierez ainsi de la liberté de vous arrêter où bon vous semble, tout en profitant du confort et de la flexibilité offerts par un van aménagé. N'hésitez plus et embarquez pour une aventure inoubliable sur la Route des Vins d'Alsace.

Itinéraire 2: La Route des Crêtes

La Route des Crêtes est une autre option de choix pour un road trip en Alsace. Créée pendant la Première Guerre mondiale, cette route historique serpente à travers les montagnes des Vosges, offrant des panoramas époustouflants sur les vallées verdoyantes et les lacs de montagne. En parcourant la Route des Crêtes, vous aurez l'occasion de découvrir des paysages spectaculaires et des sites naturels d'exception, tels que le Markstein, le Lac Blanc, ou encore le Grand Ballon, le point culminant des Vosges. Les fermes-auberges traditionnelles jalonnent cette route et vous invitent à savourer la cuisine locale dans un cadre chaleureux et authentique. N'hésitez pas à vous arrêter pour déguster des plats typiques comme le Munster, le bibeleskaes ou encore la tarte aux myrtilles, tout en profitant du charme et de la convivialité de ces établissements. La location d'un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace est la solution idéale pour explorer la Route des Crêtes en toute liberté et confort. Grâce à un van aménagé, vous pourrez vous arrêter où bon vous semble et profiter pleinement des paysages qui s'offrent à vous. De plus, les vans proposés par Van-It Alsace sont équipés de tout le nécessaire pour vous garantir un voyage agréable et sans souci, notamment une vignette suisse, un kit électrique, et une table et des chaises d'extérieur. En suivant la Route des Crêtes avec un van aménagé de Van-It Alsace, vous vivrez une expérience unique et mémorable au cœur des paysages majestueux de l'Alsace et des Vosges.

Itinéraire 3: Strasbourg et les villages du Bas-Rhin

Strasbourg, capitale européenne, est une étape incontournable lors de votre road trip en Alsace. Ne manquez pas de visiter sa célèbre cathédrale, véritable chef-d'œuvre de l'architecture gothique, et de flâner dans les ruelles pittoresques de la Petite France, quartier historique de la ville. En quittant Strasbourg, partez à la découverte des villages du Bas-Rhin, qui vous offriront un aperçu de la richesse culturelle et architecturale de la région. Parmi les villages à ne pas manquer, citons Hunspach, Heiligenstein, Barr et Mittelbergheim, autant de lieux où vous pourrez admirer de charmantes maisons à colombages et goûter aux spécialités locales. Si vous voyagez en hiver, les marchés de Noël de Strasbourg et des villages environnants sont une expérience à ne pas manquer. En été, la région propose de nombreux festivals et manifestations culturelles, qui animent les rues et les places des villages et contribuent à l'atmosphère conviviale et festive de l'Alsace. Pour un road trip inoubliable dans le Bas-Rhin, optez pour la location d'un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace. Grâce à la liberté, la flexibilité et le confort offerts par un van aménagé, vous pourrez explorer la région à votre rythme et créer des souvenirs impérissables. N'attendez plus et embarquez pour une aventure exceptionnelle à travers Strasbourg et les villages du Bas-Rhin.

Itinéraire 4: Colmar et les villages du Haut-Rhin

Colmar, souvent surnommée la "capitale des vins d'Alsace", est une charmante ville qui mérite le détour lors de votre road trip en Alsace. Son quartier de la Petite Venise, avec ses canaux et ses maisons colorées, est particulièrement pittoresque et offre un cadre idéal pour une balade en bateau ou à pied. En quittant Colmar, partez à la découverte des villages typiques du Haut-Rhin tels que Bergheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr et Eguisheim. Ces villages, avec leurs ruelles étroites et leurs maisons à colombages, vous plongeront dans l'atmosphère authentique et conviviale de l'Alsace. Profitez de votre passage dans le Haut-Rhin pour visiter les musées et sites historiques de la région, comme le musée Unterlinden, qui abrite la célèbre œuvre d'art "Le Retable d'Issenheim", la maison natale du sculpteur Bartholdi, créateur de la Statue de la Liberté, ou encore le château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, un imposant château médiéval qui domine la plaine d'Alsace. Un van aménagé de Van-It Alsace est l'outil idéal pour explorer le Haut-Rhin en toute liberté et confort. En optant pour la location d'un van aménagé, vous bénéficierez de la flexibilité nécessaire pour visiter les sites et les villages à votre rythme, tout en profitant du confort et des équipements offerts par Van-It Alsace. Alors n'hésitez plus et partez à l'aventure sur les routes du Haut-Rhin avec un van aménagé de Van-It Alsace.

Itinéraire 5: Les Hautes Vosges d'Alsace

Les Hautes Vosges d'Alsace offrent une diversité de paysages montagneux et de sites historiques liés à la Première Guerre mondiale, faisant de cette région un lieu idéal pour un road trip inoubliable. En explorant les Hautes Vosges, vous pourrez admirer des panoramas époustouflants et découvrir des lieux chargés d'histoire, témoins des combats et des épreuves endurées par les soldats durant la Grande Guerre. Les activités de plein air ne manquent pas dans les Hautes Vosges, que ce soit en été ou en hiver. Randonnées pédestres, VTT, ski, raquettes... il y en a pour tous les goûts et pour tous les niveaux. Profitez des sentiers balisés pour partir à l'aventure et explorer les montagnes et les forêts qui caractérisent cette région. Les Hautes Vosges d'Alsace sont également réputées pour leurs lacs et cascades, qui ajoutent une touche de fraîcheur et de beauté à votre road trip. Ne manquez pas de visiter le Lac Blanc, le Lac des Truites, ou encore la Cascade du Nideck, autant de lieux qui vous permettront d'apprécier la richesse naturelle de l'Alsace et de vous ressourcer au contact de l'eau et de la nature. Pour explorer les Hautes Vosges en toute liberté et confort, optez pour la location d'un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace. Avec un van aménagé, vous pourrez vous arrêter où bon vous semble et profiter pleinement des paysages et des sites qui s'offrent à vous. De plus, les vans proposés par Van-It Alsace sont équipés de tout le nécessaire pour vous garantir un voyage agréable et sans souci, notamment une vignette suisse, un kit électrique, et une table et des chaises d'extérieur. Alors n'hésitez plus et embarquez pour une aventure exceptionnelle à travers les Hautes Vosges d'Alsace avec un van aménagé de Van-It Alsace.

Prêt pour l'aventure ?

Nous avons exploré ensemble 5 itinéraires magnifiques pour un road trip en Alsace avec un van aménagé : la Route des Vins, la Route des Crêtes, Strasbourg et les villages du Bas-Rhin, Colmar et les villages du Haut-Rhin, et enfin les Hautes Vosges d'Alsace. La location d'un van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace vous offre la liberté, la flexibilité et le confort nécessaires pour profiter pleinement de ces itinéraires et vivre une expérience unique et mémorable. Alors, qu'attendez-vous ? Louez votre van aménagé avec Van-It Alsace pour votre prochain road trip et découvrez les merveilles de l'Alsace en toute liberté. Réservez dès maintenant votre van aménagé !

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