With its skyscrapers and metro lines, much of France has been modernized throughout the years. But there are pockets of France that feel magically untouched by the 21st century. And Alsace is one of those regions. The city of Strasbourg is home to the European Union’s Parliament’s main seat and boasts a modernity mixed with centuries-old charm. But around Strasbourg are sprinkled quiet yet enchanting villages. From its half-timbered homes and storybook-like streets, these villages in Alsace are sure to captivate. Here are some of the best day trips from Strasbourg and the best activities.
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Colmar
About an hour’s drive from Strasbourg, Colmar offers a wide variety of historical and cultural activities. Stroll past the Gothic architecture of Saint Martin’s Church. Learn more about Auguste Bartholdi, the Frenchman who sculpted the Statue of Liberty, at his eponymous museum. Wander its cobblestone streets and colorful houses perched along the Lauch River.
Private Guided Wine Tour in Alsace
Each region in France has its specialities, and its wine is no different. Alsace boasts an exquisite wine scene, and during your private guided wine tour, you’ll discover several local family wineries. Learn more about the local grape varieties such as Pinot Blanc, Muscat, Riesling and Gewurztraminer. You’ll definitely want to try a glass of Crémant d’Alsace, a sparkling wine local to the region. During your driving tour, you’ll brush up on viticulture 101 and taste some of the region’s finest wines. Your wine tour will also include visits of the villages of Eguisheim and Kaysersberg, and you’ll enjoy a traditional Alsatian lunch.
Kaysersberg
Just an hour’s drive from Strasbourg, the village of Kaysersberg feels like walking into a storybook. This town of about 4000 inhabitants will charm you with its mom-and-pop shops and fairytale-like architecture. Snack on a bretzel topped with melted cheese as you wander down the paths of this town dating back to the 1200s.
Eguisheim
Even smaller than Kaysersberg, the village of Eguisheim is also about an hour’s drive from Strasbourg and was named one of the most beautiful villages in France. Imagine what life was like nearly 1000 years ago as you wander the ruins of the Eguisheim Castles.
Haut Koenigsbourg Castle
This regal castle in the midst of a lush green forest is just under an hour’s drive from Strasbourg. History buffs will adore a visit to the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, which encompasses centuries of regional history. From the Habsburg monarchy to Alsace’s relationship with Germany, this castle has many stories to be uncovered.
Haut Koenigsbourg Castle and Villages Tour
Fancy a day of castles and wine in Alsace? On your private tour, step back in time as you visit the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, which dates back to the 1100s. You’ll have free time to explore the castle and marvel at the surrounding landscape. Your guide will take you on a scenic drive through the countryside sprinkled with charming villages and vineyards. Enjoy a lunch stop in Riquewihr and wander its streets marked with colored houses. In the afternoon, you’ll wander the villages of Kaysersberg and Eguisheim. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as this tour will include a fair bit of walking.
Ready to plan your trip to Strasbourg and the enchanting villages around? Contact us to speak with a travel specialist to help you plan your trip.
Riquewihr
Also named one of the most beautiful villages of France, Riquewihr is less than an hour’s drive from Strasbourg. Explore the Dolder Tower and its history dating back to the Middle Ages; be sure to head to the top to enjoy views of the region.
Northern Alsace Treasures Tour
Wander into a different time as you stroll through the fortified city of La Petite-Pierre. Admire the sweeping views of the Northern Vosges Regional Park. Later you’ll visit the Lalique Museum, which is named after French jeweler René Lalique, where you can see a variety of glass and crystal treasures. Later, you’ll explore the ruins of the Lichtenberg Castle. Your private tour will also include a visit to a craft brewery where you’ll sip on local Alsatian beers.
Looking for the best day trips from Strasbourg but beyond France? French Side Travel also offers day trips to Germany, just a short drive from Alsace.
Black Forest in Germany
Longing for an escape into nature during your day trip from Strasbourg? Germany’s Black Forest is sure to tempt you. The town of Freiburg is only an hour’s drive away from Strasbourg, making it a perfect day trip option. During your private French Side Travel tour, you’ll wander the history-laden town of Freiburg and taste local specialities at its food market. You’ll also stop by the picturesque villages of Titisee and Todtnauberg.
Heidelberg and Baden Baden, Germany
About an hour and a half from Strasbourg sits the medieval town of Heidelberg. On your guided tour with French Side Travel, you’ll have time to wander this majestic town and visit the Heidelberg Castle, with roots dating back to the 1200s. After a full morning of exploration, your guide will bring you to Baden Baden, where you can unwind in its thermal baths.
Where to Stay in Alsace
Hôtel Cour du Corbeau
A stay in this four-star boutique hotel will make you feel like you’ve turned back time several centuries. The hotel dates back to the 1500s and is sure to enchant you with its sophisticated rooms marked with historic accents. Sip on something sweet at the hotel’s cocktail bar, wander to the nearby Strasbourg Cathedral, or kick back with room service.
Hotel Regent Petite France
This five-star hotel dating back to the 1600s will not only charm you with its interior but also its location in a historical district. When you’re not relaxing in one of Hotel Regent’s 75 rooms and suites, the rest of the hotel has much to offer. Head over to Bar Champagne to sip on a glass of the best bubbles from Bollinger to Veuve Clicquot. If you’re looking for a twist, order one of its champagne cocktails. You can also feast on an Alsatian hot dog topped with ketchup, mustard and fried onions.
Packing your bags for one of these best day trips from Strasbourg? You might also be interested in: Experience the Enchanting Charms of Strasbourg! or Gourmet Delights in the Heart of Alsace. Need some help planning your trip?