Set between the Rhine River, Vosges Mountains and the German Black Forest, the Alsace region takes you back in time to enchanting fairy-tale villages, sprawling vineyards, half-timbered houses and castles perched high on the hills.
Without a doubt, the best way to see this varied region is by taking an Alsace road trip, spending 4-5 days winding your way through the country lanes, meandering around the quaint towns and topping it off with a visit to the city of Strasbourg.
A rich blend of French and Germanic influences, Alsace has a unique history of changing hands between the two nations. The region is famous for its vineyards – producing world-class white wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer – hearty German-influenced cuisine and traditional Christmas markets during the festive season.
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How Many Days in the Alsace?
Whilst the Alsace is one of the smallest regions in France, good things come in small packages. There is plenty to see and do so to ensure you have ample time to explore, you will need at least 4 days in Alsace.
If you do only have 2 or 3 days to spend in this region, you may want to focus your trip around the city of Strasbourg or Colmar otherwise you may end up feeling rushed. If you are limited on time, consider visiting during the winter season as these cities come alive with world-famous Christmas markets.
Within 4 or 5 days, you will be able to get a good feel for the region. From the sprawling countryside to the bustling cities, 5 days gives you the time to see it all. If you have even more time, there are a few options to extend your trip at the end of this guide.
Getting To & Around the Alsace
Whether you are travelling from another French city, neighbouring Germany or internationally, reaching the Alsace region is convenient and straightforward.
Strasbourg is Alsace’s main hub and well connected by the TGV high-speed trains, with direct routes from Paris in under two hours, as well as links to Lyon, Marseille, and Frankfurt. You can view schedules here.
From further afield, there are two main airports to choose from. Basel-Mulhouse Airport is the better choice for international flights, located about an hour from both Colmar and Mulhouse. Strasbourg Airport is much smaller but still has regular flights to other European cities.
Unless you are planning on driving your own car, once you have arrived, your best option for exploring is to hire a car.
A car is ideal for flexibility, particularly if you are following an Alsace wine route, where the more rural, scenic villages are best accessed by road. Rental cars are available at airports, train stations, and in major towns. You can browse options here.
For those who are unable to hire a car or prefer to use public transport, the TER train network efficiently connects Strasbourg with Colmar, Mulhouse and many of the popular picturesque villages. Bus services also operate between towns, although they’re less frequent in the more remote areas.
Cycling is popular in Alsace, with an extensive network of bike paths and scenic routes meandering through vineyards and lush green countryside. You can find bike rentals available in the larger towns.
4 to 5-Day Alsace Itinerary
If your idea of a perfect holiday looks like the fairytale village from Beauty and the Beast (based on Colmar) then 4 to 5 days in the Alsace region will make your dreams come true. Hilltop castles, picturesque half-timbered houses, hearty cuisine and world class wines – this region has it all.
Day 1 – Strasbourg
Our itinerary begins in the beautiful, historic city of Strasbourg. Tour the city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, take in the classic Franco-Germanic architecture, roam the cobbled streets seeking out local cuisine and regional wines. You can do this independently or join a walking tour or bike tour.
Start your day by visiting the city centre and old town, Grand-Île de Strasbourg. Located on an island, surrounded by the mediaeval Canal du Faux-Remparts, you could easily lose yourself for the entire morning wandering through this portal to a bygone era.
Its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses lead to the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral and the picturesque Petite France district.
If you are visiting during the festive period, you will find the main Christmas markets in this area. The Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of Europe’s oldest and most enchanting holiday markets.
Founded in 1570, it transforms the city into a winter wonderland complete with wooden chalets, artisanal gifts and of course, local Glühwein a l’Alsacienne – an Alsatian mulled white wine.
With the city centre being located on an island, you may think there would be one, maybe two bridges to connect to the rest of the city.
There are actually 23 bridges connecting the two, all with their own unique history and charm. The most impressive of these bridges is the Ponts Couverts. Built in the 14th century, this bridge was the original fortification of the island until the construction of the neighbouring bridge, Barrage Vauban in the 17th century.
Both bridges are impressive defences, the more modern Barrage Vauban was designed to have the ability to raise the water levels of the river and therefore flood the surrounding land in the event of an attack.
Spend the evening discovering local restaurants and bars. The cuisine in Strasbourg is unique to this area, blending French and German influences creating hearty, flavorful dishes.
Signature dishes include choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages), tarte flambée (a crispy flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon), and baeckeoffe (a rich meat and potato stew). Pair these dishes with world-famous Alsace wines such as Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer. You can join a food tour if you prefer to explore with a guide!
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
Hôtel ORIGAMI – This hip, modern hotel is located in the centre of Strasbourg and is a great place to stay in the city. Excellently situated to explore the Petit France area, there is breakfast each morning and lots of double, twin and family rooms available.
Aparthotel Adagio – This aparthotel is great for those looking for the comforts of their own flat with the convenience of a hotel. There are fully-furnished studios and one-bedroom apartments, breakfast available, laundry facilities and a great location.
Ciarus – This hostel is an excellent budget option and great for those after a social atmosphere. There are several dorms and rooms to choose from along with clean and inviting facilities and common areas.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Strasbourg hotels!
Day 2 – Obernai & Chateau Tour
Set against a backdrop of vineyards and rolling hills, Obernai is a quaint town just 30 minutes by car from Strasbourg.
Here you will stumble upon a perfectly preserved old town featuring those iconic half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and colourful facades that reflect the region’s Franco-German heritage.
Once you have arrived, head into the town centre, Place du Marché. Complete with local shops, traditional bakeries, and bustling cafes, this is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat before exploring.
If you want to delve further into the history of Obernai, head to the Tour d’Enceinte, a historic watchtower that forms part of the town’s mediaeval fortifications. Built in the 13th century, this stone tower once served as a defensive structure and lookout point.
It’s also worth visiting the Church of St. Peter and Paul, a neo-Gothic structure built in the late 19th century. Known for its grand facade and intricate stained-glass windows, it is one of Alsace’s largest churches.
In the afternoon, take a road trip out to explore some of the local ruined hilltop Chateaus. There are several dotted around the hills in the Alsace region and Obernai is the perfect gateway to head out into the countryside and discover some of them.
Château de Haut-Andlau is one of the best preserved in the area. After a short stroll through the woods, you can tour the remains and the two impressive watch towers.
If you have a car, it’s worth visiting a few of these ruins, consider adding Château de Rathsamhausen and Chateau du Landsberg to your route for a full afternoon of woodland hiking and castle hopping. If you don’t have a car you can join a full-day tour that covers Obernai & some vineyards.
Day 3 – Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg & Colmar
Day 3 and it’s time to head south to the next city on our itinerary, Colmar. But before we reach the city, there is time to stop off at one more Chateau en route. Unlike the ruins we visited yesterday, Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg is the only mediaeval castle in the region to undergo a full restoration.
Originally built in the 12th century, it played a key role in regional conflicts until its partial destruction in the 17th century. Here you can wander the corridors, imagining what chateau life may have been like.
Full of detail, you can see original stone carvings, stained glass windows, ornate staircases, tiled roofs and witness the course of European history. On a clear day, there are panoramic views across the Alsace plains, Rhine Valley, and Black Forest.
Next on our Alsace itinerary is the charming city of Colmar. Often described as a “fairy-tale” town, it’s nestled at the foot of the Vosges Mountains and crisscrossed by canals, giving it the nickname “Little Venice.”
From the old town, take an afternoon boat trip along the river on one of the traditional, flat-bottomed boats. These vessels were originally used by tanners, fishermen and garden merchants to navigate the river.
Taking one of these guided boat trips is an excellent way to learn about the city from a knowledgeable local before you head off to explore on your own two feet.
There are several museums and cultural spots to check out while you stroll around Colmar. The Frédéric Bartholdi museum, Unterlinden Museum and the Saint Martin’s Church.
This is the first of a few nights in Colmar so it’s the perfect time to scout out the best local eateries and sample some of that famous Alsace wine before heading off on a wine tasting tour on day 4.
Where to Stay in Colmar
Hotel Saint-Martin – A rustic and cosy hotel in the heart of the old town, this is an excellent mid-range place to stay in Colmar. Decorated in traditional Alsatian style, there are lots of variously-sized rooms on offer, a terrace and breakfast available each morning.
Hotel Le Colombier – A luxe, modern hotel situated in a historic Colmar building, this place is situated in the Little Venice neighbourhood. There are countless spacious, chic rooms to choose from and amenities like a fitness centre, a bar and breakfast on offer.
Les Gites Du Retable – These apartments in the centre of Colmar are great for families or those looking for something a little more homely than a hotel. They are fully equipped with everything you may need and free parking is also available.
Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Colmar hotels!
Day 4 – Wine Route
There are several options for wine route itineraries depending on where you are starting, how many vineyards you want to visit and how long you have. For the purpose of this itinerary, we are starting and ending this one-day road trip in Colmar.
From Colmar, head 15 minutes south to one of France’s most beautiful villages, Eguisheim. Known for its unique circular layout, half-timbered houses, and vibrant flower displays, this village is also home to some iconic wineries.
Many of these are family-run and specialise in Alsatian varieties like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Crémant d’Alsace. Some notable wine houses you might like to visit include Domaine Bruno Sorg with its expressive Rieslings and Crémant d’Alsace, Domaine Emile Beyer which is one of Eguisheim’s oldest wineries, with wines from the nearby Grand Cru vineyards.
Next on the itinerary is the village of Kaysersberg, just 20 minutes away from Eguisheim. Bags of mediaeval charm, a picturesque bridge and the towering ruins and dungeon of Kaysersberg Castle.
Beyond the historic charm, Kaysersberg is also a must-stop on this Alsace wine route itinerary. One of the most famous estates in Alsace, Domaine Weinbach is known for its outstanding Grand Cru Rieslings, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
Located in a former Capuchin monastery just outside of the village. For something a little different, consider visiting the Biodynamic vineyard, Domaine Marc Tempé. Here you can learn about the natural, biodynamic wine-making process and even sample some Pinot Noir, one of the only regional red wines on offer.
Another 15 minutes driving the meandering country roads through the vineyards and you will arrive in the village of Riquewihr. Another fairy tale village, complete with the cobbled streets and colourful half-timbered houses we have come to know and love.
It’s a prime location for wine tasting but is slightly off the beaten track than the last 2 villages, making it another excellent stop on this itinerary.
Located in a 16th-century castle, Dopff & Irion offers tastings of traditional Alsatian wines, including Riesling and Gewürztraminer. For more terroir-driven, organic wines, visit the Sipp Mack winery.
The last stop on this one-day Alsace wine tour is Ribeauvillé. Before heading into the village itself, visit the Château Saint-Ulrich, perched on a hill overlooking the valley below.
This is the perfect way to break up the day, you can take a short hike through the vineyards and into the woods surrounding the castle, explore the ruins then head back down for another round of wine tasting.
Don’t miss Maison Trimbach, one of Alsace’s most prestigious wineries, renowned for its dry Rieslings and elegant Gewürztraminer. Before heading back to Colmar for the evening, consider dining in Au Relais des Ménétriers. The chefs utilise the very best local ingredients to cook up refined yet traditional dishes.
If you don’t want to drive, you can join a group full-day tour or book a private tour.
Day 5 – Mulhouse
Mulhouse is the southernmost city in the Alsace region, making it the perfect final destination on this grand tour. Historically a textile and manufacturing hub, Mulhouse is particularly famous in the modern day for its exceptional museums, earning it the nickname “the museum city.”
A real highlight is the Cité de l’Automobile, the largest car museum in the world, housing an impressive collection of vintage cars. Nearby is the Cité du Train, the largest railway museum in Europe, home to historic locomotives and plenty of interactive exhibits to suit all age ranges.
Mulhouse may be known for its world-famous museums but it is also home to a charming old town, Renaissance architecture, vibrant street markets and the magnificent Calvinist church, Temple Saint-Étienne.
Have More Time?
Depending on whether you are a city hopper or a nature enthusiast, there are two main options.
If your main goal when travelling is to visit as many European cities as possible, soaking in all the different cultural delights then consider crossing the border and taking a day trip to the Swiss city of Basel.
Perched between France and Germany, Basel is often overlooked in favour of the larger Swiss cities like Bern and Geneva but it has its own unique charm and is well worth visiting.
You could easily spend a few days in Basel so depending on how much extra time you have, consider extending your stay to really make the most of this city.
If cities aren’t your main priority and you would rather embrace nature and lace up your hiking boots to hit the trails, then spending a couple of extra days in the Vosges Mountains would make an excellent choice.
Dense forests, mountain lakes and rolling peaks make this area perfect for hikers of all levels. Popular routes include the Hohneck Trail, which leads to one of the highest peaks, offering panoramic views across the Rhine Valley and the Black Forest. The Lac Blanc hike is another favourite, winding through rugged terrain to a pristine glacial lake.
If you have a head for heights, the Sentier des Roches is a slightly more technical but very rewarding trail. The walk takes around 4 hours but for 1.5 hours of the trail is cut into a sheer rock face with ladders instead of a path.
Alsace, a small but mighty French region on the border with Germany. Spending 5 days here is a real joy and it’s easy to see why several of these towns and villages have been named as the most beautiful in the whole of France. The entire region is straight out of a fairy tale with added local cuisine, wine and hospitality. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Are you planning to visit Alsace? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!
