Alsace is located in France on the German border, so many of the towns have a beautiful mix of French and German culture and architecture. They are some of the most charming towns I have ever visited and I can't wait for you to experience this region yourself.
This guide covers Strasbourg, Colmar, and the best day trip villages in the area — including Riquewihr, which is said to have inspired the village in Beauty and the Beast. Whether you're coming for the wine, the architecture, or the legendary Christmas markets, this region rewards every type of traveler.
Strasbourg: The Capital of Alsace
Strasbourg is the main city of Alsace and a perfect base for exploring the region. The old town — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is a stunning mix of medieval half-timbered buildings, winding canals, and one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe.
Things to Do in Strasbourg
- Strasbourg Cathedral — An absolute must. Construction started in 1015 and finished in 1439. The details are truly magnificent, and for over 200 years it was the world's tallest building. It is currently the 6th tallest in the world. Don't rush through this one.
- Quartier des Tanneurs — Walk through the old town and soak in the extraordinary architecture. This neighborhood of former tanneries along the river is one of the most photogenic areas in all of France.
- Musée Historique de Strasbourg — A fascinating museum that tells the story of Strasbourg through the centuries.
- Musée Alsacien — A wonderful overview of Alsatian traditions, crafts, and way of life.
- Full-Day Wine Tour — Let a regional expert take you to the best vineyards along the Alsace Wine Route. You'll taste the wines the region is famous for — Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris — and visit the vineyards that produce them.
"Alsace is so special — some of the most charming towns I've ever seen, incredible food and wine, and Christmas markets that turn the whole region into a winter wonderland."
Colmar: The Most Charming Town in France
Colmar is a smaller, quieter town about 45 minutes south of Strasbourg, and if anything it's even more beautiful. The old town is perfectly preserved — colorful half-timbered houses, flower-filled window boxes, and canals running through the streets. Plan at least a full day here.
Things to Do in Colmar
- La Petite Venise (Little Venice) — The canal district of Colmar is impossibly picturesque. Take a boat tour for a view from the water, or simply walk along the banks and find a restaurant terrace for lunch.
- Segway Tour — A fun way to get an overview of the city before deciding where to spend more time. Your guide will show you the highlights and you'll know exactly where to return.
- Unterlinden Museum — Home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald — one of the most significant works of German Renaissance art and worth a visit on its own.
- Food Tour — Several excellent food tours let you try Alsatian specialties like Tarte Flambée (thin-crust tart with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons), choucroute garnie, and local cheeses.
Day Trips from Alsace
Some of the most magical villages in the world are within easy driving distance of Strasbourg and Colmar. These make excellent half-day or full-day excursions:
- Riquewihr — Said to have inspired the village in Beauty and the Beast. Perfectly preserved medieval walls, cobblestone streets, and wine shops around every corner. Absolutely enchanting.
- Eguisheim — Concentric rings of colorful half-timbered houses surrounding a central fountain — one of the most charming villages in France and a short drive from Colmar.
Where to Eat & Drink in Alsace
- Restaurant Gurtlerhoft, Strasbourg — A unique dining experience right in the heart of Strasbourg, housed in a cave. Excellent Alsatian cuisine with a dramatic atmosphere.
- Guillaume Scheer Michelin Star Restaurant — Splurge on this one. The meal here will be unforgettable — French fine dining at its best, in a region that does it exceptionally well.
- La Fignette — Great classic Alsatian food at reasonable prices. Hearty, comforting, and delicious.
- Caveau St Jean — Another great option for authentic Alsatian cuisine without the high-end price tag.
- Boulangerie Feuilleté — An amazing French bakery for breakfast and lunch. The chocolate croissant is a must — get there early before they sell out.
- Le Cercle des Arômes — A relaxed wine bar perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Great selection of Alsatian wines and a lovely atmosphere.
- Le Douanier — Great cocktail bar with an excellent menu of creative options.
Christmas Markets: The Best Time to Visit
Both Strasbourg and Colmar have extraordinary Christmas markets in December. The towns transform into winter wonderlands — stalls selling local food, crafts, vin chaud (mulled wine), and Alsatian specialties fill every square. Strasbourg's market is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to 1570. Colmar's is smaller and arguably more charming. If you have any flexibility in your travel dates, visiting Alsace in December is a genuinely magical experience.
Where to Stay in Alsace
A storybook escape in the heart of Strasbourg — a restored 16th-century inn blending historic charm with modern boutique elegance. One of the most characterful hotels in the city.
Immerse yourself in French charm at this boutique hotel in Colmar — artistic design meets luxury in a tranquil retreat right in the heart of one of Europe's prettiest cities.
A heritage hotel with elegant décor and refined hospitality that transports you to the beauty of yesteryear. Excellent central location in Strasbourg's old town.
Practical Tips
- Alsace is well connected by train from Paris (2 hours from Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg) — a car is useful but not essential for Strasbourg and Colmar
- A car is helpful for visiting the smaller wine villages and vineyard tours
- If visiting in December, book hotels many months in advance — Christmas market season fills up extremely fast
- Try Tarte Flambée (Flammkuchen) at least once — it's the signature dish of the region and every restaurant does it slightly differently
- The Alsace Wine Route runs between Marlenheim and Thann — allow a full day if you want to drive the whole thing
