13 Top Things to Do
Alsace Overall Appeal ★★★★★
Overview Table
| Name | Appeal | Type | Visit | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | ➡️ Strasbourg | ★★★★★ | City | - | - |
| 02 | ➡️ Colmar | ★★★★★ | City | - | - |
| 03 | Haut-Koenigsbourg | ★★★★★ | Castle + Panorama | Either | Paid |
| 04 | Vineyards | ★★★★★ | Cellars & Tastings | Tour | Paid |
| 05 | Biking in the Vineyards | ★★★★★ | Biking + Tastings | Tour | Paid |
| 06 | Balloon over the Vineyards | ★★★★★ | Flight | Tour | Paid |
| 07 | Christmas Markets | ★★★★★ | Christmas Markets | Self | Free |
| 08 | ➡️ Riquewihr | ★★★★★ | Village | - | - |
| 09 | ➡️ Kaysersberg | ★★★★★ | Village | - | - |
| 10 | ➡️ Eguisheim | ★★★★☆ | Village | - | - |
| 11 | ➡️ Ribeauvillé | ★★★★☆ | Village | - | - |
| 12 | St. Odile Abbey | ★★★★☆ | Abbey + Panorama | Self | Free |
| 13 | Ecomusée d'Alsace | ★★★★☆ | Open-Air Museum Village | Self | Paid |
01. Strasbourg City
Overall Appeal ★★★★★
Strasbourg is a vibrant city, the capital of Alsace, known for its rich blend of French and German influences. Its historic core, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting half-timbered houses, canals, and cobbled streets.
02. Colmar City
Overall Appeal ★★★★★
Colmar is a picturesque city known for its colorful, half-timbered houses and quaint canals, often referred to as “Little Venice.” Its well-preserved old town and charming atmosphere make it a top destination for visitors seeking an authentic Alsatian experience.
03. Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Castle + Panorama
Visit Self or Guided
Cost Paid
This castle is the most important in Alsace and one of the most significant in France.
It’s perched at an altitude of 757 m and has a long history, dating back to the 12th century. After being destroyed during the European wars of the 17th century, it was meticulously restored by the German Emperor in the early 20th century, remaining largely faithful to its original style.
The panoramic views from the towers stretch over vineyards and forests, making it an ideal spot to admire the scenery.
⚙️ Visitor Info
04. Alsace Vineyards
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Cellars & Tastings
Visit Tour
Cost Paid
Alsace’s famous wine route is a paradise for wine lovers, with scenic vineyards, charming villages, and excellent tasting cellars. Visitors can explore renowned wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
05. Biking in the Vineyards
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Biking + Cellars & Tastings
Visit Tour
Cost Paid
Explore Alsace’s scenic wine country by bike, pedaling through vineyards and charming villages. Enjoy stops for wine tastings, making it a perfect blend of activity and indulgence.
06. Balloon over the Vineyards
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Flight
Visit Tour
Cost Paid
A hot air balloon ride offers an unforgettable view over Alsace’s vineyards, picturesque villages, and rolling hills. Soar above the scenic landscape and experience the region from a unique vantage point.
07. Christmas Markets
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Christmas Markets
Visit Self
Cost Free
Alsace’s Christmas markets are world-renowned, especially those in Strasbourg and Colmar. The festive atmosphere, beautifully lit stalls, and regional crafts create an enchanting holiday experience.
08. Riquewihr Village
Overall Appeal ★★★★★
Riquewihr is a charming medieval village in Alsace, renowned for its typical Alsatian beauty and rich heritage. It is surrounded by vineyards and stands out for its colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and the remains of its ramparts. Riquewihr has changed very little over the centuries, and its picturesque atmosphere attracts many visitors.
09. Kaysersberg Village
Overall Appeal ★★★★★
Kaysersberg is a charming village in Alsace, known for its medieval character and its half-timbered houses, typical of the region. It is surrounded by vineyards and crossed by the Weiss River, giving it a picturesque setting.
10. Eguisheim Village
Overall Appeal ★★★★☆
Eguisheim is a charming village in Alsace, known for its picturesque character and colorful half-timbered houses. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you will discover flower-adorned houses, historic fountains, and small artisanal shops, all while enjoying its warm and authentic atmosphere.
11. Ribeauvillé Village
Overall Appeal ★★★★☆
Ribeauvillé is a charming medieval village located in the heart of Alsace, nestled between vineyards and the Vosges mountains to the west. It is known for its historical heritage, picturesque streets, colorful half-timbered houses, ancient fountains, and welcoming squares.
12. St. Odile Abbey
Appeal ★★★★☆
Type Abbey + Panorama
Visit Self
Cost Free
Perched atop Mont Sainte-Odile at an altitude of 764 m, this abbey, originally dating back to the 7th century, is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Odile, the patron saint of Alsace.
Now restored, notable features include the Holy Chapel and the panoramic terrace offering sweeping views of the region.
The site also has a hotel and restaurants.
13. Ecomusée d'Alsace
Appeal ★★★★☆
Type Open-Air Museum Village
Visit Self
Cost Paid
This open-air museum, the largest in France, recreates a historic Alsatian village, complete with traditional houses, workshops, and farm animals. It provides an immersive experience of rural life in the region during past centuries.
⚙️ Visitor Info
