Kaysersberg is one of the most beautiful villages in France and one of the best places to visit in Alsace. Due to this regions proximity to Germany, the villages of Alsace are unlike any other destination in France. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Other excursions include the nearby village of Epfig (eight kilometers away), nestled in an idyllic spot surrounded by vine-covered foothills. If youre planning to fly from the United States, the best option is to fly into the Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and then to take a train to Strasbourg from there. Other noteworthy aspects are the drawbridges, armory, and cannons, which recall the fortress' military purpose.
Equally intriguing, the town has evidence of a Jewish community dating back to 1215. For those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities, it's worth exploring the rural area outside of Guebwiller in the Vosges Mountains. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Furthermore, this wine route is a trendy trip thanks to the many picturesque vineyards and historic towns along the drive. Turckheim hosts several events throughout the year, such as an Easter celebration and the Trois-Epis car race. An outdoor market takes place at the Place du March in Munster on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. So, you can experience the same small-town charm and adorable half-timbered homes without the crowds. Depending on your starting point, there are many different ways to reach the Alsace region. A tour of the village should also include the Place du March to admire the fountain featuring the village's coat of arms, the Grand Rue lined with handsome flower-bedecked houses, and the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Assomption (parish church). As you take your time exploring the narrow streets and quirky shops, dont miss the Saint-Leon Fountain, the Chteau de Saint-Lon-Pfalz (castle), and the tiny yet alluring Chapelle Saint-Leon IX. With its slow-paced country feel, Mittelbergheim is a good place to relax, appreciate nature, and experience the joie de vivre of Alsace. If you happen to be visiting Eguisheim during the last weekend in August, youre in for a treat! For example, the medieval fortifications surrounding the village were built in the 13th century. The village has a rare Romanesque chapel that dates back to the 11th century, the Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite. Other nearby attractions include the Renaissance houses in Soultz (four kilometers away) and the Basilique de Thierenbach in Jungholtz (six kilometers away), a lavish Baroque church that is a pilgrimage destination devoted to the Virgin Mary. Thanks to these exceptional floral displays, Ribeauvill has been awarded the title of four-star "Village Fleuri" - the highest rating. Visitors circle through the spiral stairways that lead to the fully furnished living quarters. The town's March de Nol (Christmas Market) draws many revelers because of its authentic decor and joyous atmosphere. During springtime and summer, potted flowers adorn the window sills of fetching historic houses, as well as public spaces such as fountains and statues. Wine lovers cant forget to visit the Cave de Ribeauvill! For history lovers, make sure to spend some time at the, , the most visited museum in Alsace. One of the most amusing things to do in Slestat is visit the Maison du Pain d'Alsace, a museum and working bakery dedicated to the art and techniques of Alsatian baking.
Found in the verdant Mnster Valley, just six kilometers from Colmar, Turckheim is layered in history.
This pretty little village (only four kilometers from Riquewihr) literally blossoms with quaintness. Therefore, you wont have to depend on buses, taxis, or bicycles to explore the region. Like many other Alsatian villages, Eguisheim also puts on a lovely traditional. Thanks for the awesome recommendations! The Romanesque Eglise Sainte-Anne dates to the 12th century. For a high-end French dining experience during your time in Kaysersberg, check out, Remember that December is one of the best times to visit all of these Alsace wine villages.
Because of its exceptional historical and cultural value, Neuf-Brisach is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gastronomes will appreciate the region's cozy restaurants, which specialize in the regional cuisine (renowned for its hearty dishes). During this time of year, youll experience harvest season in the vineyards. The Place du March (Market Square) features Gothic and Renaissance houses, which lend an elegant air. 
For a walking tour of the village, take a stroll down Main Street (Le Grand Rue) to see the top attractions in Old Town. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. If you dont mind braving the cold weather, the best time of year to visit Alsace would be during December.
For some of the towns most picturesque homes, stroll down the main street of Rue du General de Gaulle. I want my husband to get stationed in Europe and I hope to visit these villages with my family.
Read More: One Day in Strasbourg, France Travel Guide. The city became a center of humanism in the 15th and 16th centuries and today is recognized as a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History). Additionally, from September 1-October 31, you can take a short train ride on the, Eguisheim is one of the best Alsace Wine Route villages and was even voted the. The Alsace Wine Route (Route du Vin Alsace) is a designated section of the Alsace region that passes through some of the best wine-producing towns in France.
These are BEAUTIFUL places! The surrounding Pays du Mont Sainte-Odile (countryside of Mount Sainte-Odile) features scenic walking and hiking trails that draw many visitors from springtime through autumn. However, youll notice that this area truly comes alive during the winter holidays when its small towns host charming, If youre planning an Alsace road trip, the most challenging part is choosing which villages to visit along your drive. Kaysersberg is one of the most beautiful villages in France and one of the best places to visit in Alsace. We suggest seeing Riquewihr as a day trip from Colmar or as a day trip from Strasbourg if you dont have much time in the area. Other cultural events include the Kougelhopf Festival in early May (devoted to the special cake made with raisons and almonds) and the Festival de Musique Ancienne that presents a program of music concerts (focused on medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque music) from mid-September through October. The typical Alsatian village of Eguisheim (five kilometers from Colmar) is nestled in a sunny valley surrounded by the vine-covered foothills of the Vosges Mountains. For those who want to experience the magic of Christmastime in Alsace, Kaysersberg should be at the top of a tour itinerary in December. I tried sharing these on Twitter through the social tweet button below your post, but it didn't work. Interestingly, this medieval city was built in the shape of concentric circles surrounding the main square. Heres an interesting fact about Tuckheim: the village is one of the few in France to employ a municipal night watchman still. Just keep in mind that the overall busiest months are June, July, and August. Mittelbergheim is also renowned for its gastronomy. Visitors can begin this gourmet experience by sampling cheeses at the Maison du Fromage (a museum devoted to cheese) and at farmhouse inns. Since the castle was built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufens, this amazing monument has witnessed the course of European history. Interestingly, this medieval city was built in the shape of concentric circles surrounding the main square. The good news is no matter where youre located, this region of France is very accessible. In this pristine countryside, there is a wide selection of hotels and inns that offer an escape to nature. If youre planning to fly from the United States, To check train times, youll need to visit the. About 25 kilometers south of Strasbourg, this Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire has retained its medieval ambience, seen in the 13th-century tower, old town gates, narrow pedestrian lanes, and characteristic burghers' houses. During this time of year, youll experience harvest season in the vineyards. Although the Christmas markets attract a flurry of other visitors during the winter, I still recommend traveling here during this high season. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If youre not particularly interested in visiting the Christmas markets, I suggest traveling to Alsace sometime between May and October. With its historic neighborhoods, winding pedestrian streets, and atmospheric canals, Colmar has retained the enchantment of a bygone era. Troubadours (singers, clowns, dancers) entertain the crowds, adding to the authentic ambience. Colmar has earned the distinction of a "Ville Fleurie" (Flowering City) because of its vibrant floral displays. Built in 1699 as a citadel for King Louis XIV (the Sun King), Neuf-Brisach features architecture never before seen in Europe and is considered a masterpiece of Vauban. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. This exciting event features snacks, arts and crafts for purchase, live music, and games for children. Surrounded by vine-covered hills and woodlands, this winsome country hamlet features quiet streets lined with floral-adorned half-timbered houses. This delightful village (three kilometers from Andlau) has a remarkable unity of architectural style, with most buildings dating to the 17th and 18th centuries.
If you happen to be visiting Eguisheim during the last weekend in August, youre in for a treat! So, lets go over some of the leading travel options. In fact, the, Other sights not to miss includethe Colmar Cathedral, the OldCustoms House(.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kaysersberg, Ribeauvill historic houses with floral displays. Although its not quite as well known as other markets in the Alsace region, we think its well worth visiting! This position is part of a tradition commemorating a watchman who prevented a fire during the 13th century. This venue also serves ham and cheese platters if youd like a little snack with your wine. Turckheim is a short 10-minute drive from Colmar, making it a convenient stop along the Alsace Wine Route. Its best known for the Alsatian wine route, adorable half-timbered houses, and traditional dishes and desserts, such as tarte flambe, baeckeoffe, and pain dpice. Therefore, this article lists the top eight Alsace towns to see on your trip, featuring famous villageslike Colmar, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillas well as some hidden gems. This explains why bears make an appearance at the Eglise Abbatiale Saints-Pierre-et-Paul. At the foot of Mount Saint Odile in a ravishing landscape of vine-covered fields, Mittelbergheim is one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France." They run every day except for Mondays and Saturdays (from May to October). Luckily, the train ride from Paris to Strasbourg should only take about two hours. A magnificent Christmas tree and magical illuminations decorate the town, while a festive March de Nol (Christmas Market) brings together artisan vendors that sell authentic locally made crafts. If youre planning an Alsace road trip, the most challenging part is choosing which villages to visit along your drive. Visitors enter the town through its medieval gates, relics of the ancient ramparts: the 14th-century Porte de France, the Porte de Munster, and the Porte du Brand. The trail is free to access; however, the road closes for safety reasons during the winter months: from November 11-March 15. Driving the Ring of Kerry Route in Ireland: Map and the Best Stops! The Riquewihr Christmas market, running from the end of November through late December, is the towns top attraction. The main street of the village, the rue du Gnral-de-Gaulle, is a lovely place for a leisurely stroll. This monument is a rare example of defensive religious architecture. involves open cellars for wine tastings, an orchestra performance, and a huge parade. Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Learn how your comment data is processed. As Colmar is part of the Alsace Wine Region, dont forget to sample some local wine! Nonetheless, due to the regions mild climate, theres never really a wrong time to visit. The village is also famous for its March de Nol (Christmas festivities, from December 1st to 24th), which include an Advent Calendar ritual at the Town Hall with candle lightings, Christmas carols, and "Wiehnachts Bredele" (Christmas cakes). Obernai is also a popular place to travel during the holidays. Without a doubt, the most popular activity is to take a boat from the Saint Pierre Bridge through the canals in Little Venice (la Petite Venise). The castle also has a Medieval Garden planted with flowers, plants, and medicinal herbs used during the Middle Ages.
Within a maze of cobblestone streets, the medieval town of Molsheim boasts wonderfully preserved old houses and historic monuments. A short walk away from the Place du March is the Office of Tourism on the Place Beffroi, which occupies a quaint half-timbered house bedecked with potted flowers. I recommend going to Le Cercle des Aromes wine bar for a tasting. As you make your way through Riquewihr, you may notice that it looks like Belles home in the classic film Beauty and the Beast! Local specialties include Fleischkiechles (ground meat patties), Baeckeoffe (meat stew topped with sliced potatoes), trout in a special sauce, and Tartes Flambes (Alsatian-style pizza made with cream and Emmental cheese). If you choose to travel via train, Alsace has two train stations: one in Strasbourg and the other in Mulhouse. Flights to Alsace are available for many of the bigger cities in Europe, including Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Rome, Barcelona, and Madrid. The attractive and cultured town of Guebwiller stands at the foot of the "Grand Ballon," the highest summit of the Vosges Mountains. ), hand-crafted souvenirs (wreaths, ornaments, and other decorations), and live music. Covered Market Hall, the Pfister House, and the colorful historic homes inthe fishmongers district.
Several trails outside the village afford wonderful views of the idyllic scenery. Another popular activity here is to hike The Three Castles of Ribeauvill Trail, leading to Castle Saint Ulrich, Castle Girsberg, and Castle Haut Ribeaupierreall of which date back to the Middle Ages. Also known as "Little Venice," this quarter is where tourists can embark on a boat tour around the canals. This breathtaking castle (15 kilometers from Ribeauvill and 10 kilometers from Bergheim) is an important symbol of the Alsatian heritage.
From most major European cities, youll either be able to take a train or fly to the Alsace region. You can see him make his rounds at 10 p.m. from May 1-October 31 and on the three Saturdays before Christmas. Eguisheim's captivating ambience makes it one of Alsace's top destinations for Christmas. This option offers a lot more flexibility to stop and see as many Alsace villages as you would like.
From most major European cities, youll either be able to take a train or fly to the Alsace region. The market takes its name from the word "bredele," which describes a variety of Christmas cookies ranging from vanilla butter cookies and gingerbread to meringues and hazelnut cookies. This way, youll have the chance to witness the Alsace villages in all their Christmas glory. Written by Lisa AlexanderUpdated Mar 29, 2021, We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). Plus, if youd rather explore Colmar in a group, check out this two-hour Segway tour through the city. Best Time to Visit Peru: Climate Guide to Machu Picchu, Cusco, & More! Plus, this town has quite an eventful past; in fact, it was given status as a free imperial city back in 1312, under the Holy Roman Empire. Other whimsical bear sculptures decorate public spaces throughout the town. Plus, you can visit the top tourist attractions here year-round, making the Alsace region a convenient option for a vacation to France. For such a tiny village, there are plenty of cafs, bakeries, boutiques, and restaurants that appeal to the many tourists who visit throughout the year. For history lovers, make sure to spend some time at the Unterlinden Museum, the most visited museum in Alsace. To check train times, youll need to visit the SNCF website. For example, it hosts the Colmar International Festival each year during the first two weeks in July and a bustling Christmas market from the last week of November through the end of December. I'll look into this ASAP! Picturesque vine-covered hills envelope this lovely small town, which has many flower-bedecked half-timbered houses. Tourists can walk a few blocks from the Puits aux Six Seaux to the Place de l'toile, a lovely square with angular half-timbered houses and storks' nests on the roofs. Besides its pastoral charm, Hunawihr has a few unique tourist attractions: the Butterfly Garden, which allows exotic butterflies to flourish in greenhouses that replicate natural habitats; and the Stork Reintroduction Center, which reintroduces native storks into the wild to help this endangered species survive. The village is a cluster of enchanting cobblestone lanes that wind around in a concentric pattern, giving the feel of being in a fairy-tale world. Aerial view of Chteau du Haut-Koenigsbourg. Well also cover things to do in Alsace, the best time to visit, how to get there, and accommodations. As a testimony to its rich cultural heritage, Slestat has a library founded in 1452, which possesses thousands of valuable manuscripts dating from the 7th to the 16th centuries. Located on a wooded ridge at 753 meters above the surrounding countryside, Mont Sainte-Odile offers a peaceful natural environment and awe-inspiring views. Learn about the best places to visit in this beautiful region with our list of the top Alsace villages and medieval towns. So, youll see all sorts of autumnal colors throughout the fields! The rez-de-chausse (street level) of La Metzig is now a restaurant that serves authentic Alsatian cuisine. During the period of Advent, the town celebrates the season with an event called "Bredelmarik," a market devoted to traditional Alsatian Christmas cakes and cookies. For a unique experience, visit Ribeauvill during The Minstrels Festival, which takes place on the first Sunday in September. Since Obernai is located along the Alsace Wine Route, we also suggest dropping by the Vins dAlsace Robert Blanck while youre in town. The village comes alive thanks to the Vignerons Festival of Eguisheim, the oldest Alsatian wine festival.
Nonetheless, if youd prefer warmer weather but fewer crowds, you should consider planning your trip to the Alsace region during the fall. With this in mind, if youd like to skip peak season in Alsace, the best time to visit Alsace is probably in May, September, or October. The village's enchantment is further revealed in its atmospheric cobblestone streets and small squares.
Although the 19th-century Jewish synagogue is now closed, tourists can still appreciate its neo-Romanesque facade. Dambach-la-Ville is a popular stop along the Alsace Wine Route, tucked between Blienschwiller and Scherwiller in the Bas-Rhin department.
Equally intriguing, the town has evidence of a Jewish community dating back to 1215. For those who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities, it's worth exploring the rural area outside of Guebwiller in the Vosges Mountains. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Furthermore, this wine route is a trendy trip thanks to the many picturesque vineyards and historic towns along the drive. Turckheim hosts several events throughout the year, such as an Easter celebration and the Trois-Epis car race. An outdoor market takes place at the Place du March in Munster on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. So, you can experience the same small-town charm and adorable half-timbered homes without the crowds. Depending on your starting point, there are many different ways to reach the Alsace region. A tour of the village should also include the Place du March to admire the fountain featuring the village's coat of arms, the Grand Rue lined with handsome flower-bedecked houses, and the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Assomption (parish church). As you take your time exploring the narrow streets and quirky shops, dont miss the Saint-Leon Fountain, the Chteau de Saint-Lon-Pfalz (castle), and the tiny yet alluring Chapelle Saint-Leon IX. With its slow-paced country feel, Mittelbergheim is a good place to relax, appreciate nature, and experience the joie de vivre of Alsace. If you happen to be visiting Eguisheim during the last weekend in August, youre in for a treat! For example, the medieval fortifications surrounding the village were built in the 13th century. The village has a rare Romanesque chapel that dates back to the 11th century, the Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite. Other nearby attractions include the Renaissance houses in Soultz (four kilometers away) and the Basilique de Thierenbach in Jungholtz (six kilometers away), a lavish Baroque church that is a pilgrimage destination devoted to the Virgin Mary. Thanks to these exceptional floral displays, Ribeauvill has been awarded the title of four-star "Village Fleuri" - the highest rating. Visitors circle through the spiral stairways that lead to the fully furnished living quarters. The town's March de Nol (Christmas Market) draws many revelers because of its authentic decor and joyous atmosphere. During springtime and summer, potted flowers adorn the window sills of fetching historic houses, as well as public spaces such as fountains and statues. Wine lovers cant forget to visit the Cave de Ribeauvill! For history lovers, make sure to spend some time at the, , the most visited museum in Alsace. One of the most amusing things to do in Slestat is visit the Maison du Pain d'Alsace, a museum and working bakery dedicated to the art and techniques of Alsatian baking.
Found in the verdant Mnster Valley, just six kilometers from Colmar, Turckheim is layered in history. This pretty little village (only four kilometers from Riquewihr) literally blossoms with quaintness. Therefore, you wont have to depend on buses, taxis, or bicycles to explore the region. Like many other Alsatian villages, Eguisheim also puts on a lovely traditional. Thanks for the awesome recommendations! The Romanesque Eglise Sainte-Anne dates to the 12th century. For a high-end French dining experience during your time in Kaysersberg, check out, Remember that December is one of the best times to visit all of these Alsace wine villages.
Because of its exceptional historical and cultural value, Neuf-Brisach is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gastronomes will appreciate the region's cozy restaurants, which specialize in the regional cuisine (renowned for its hearty dishes). During this time of year, youll experience harvest season in the vineyards. The Place du March (Market Square) features Gothic and Renaissance houses, which lend an elegant air. For a walking tour of the village, take a stroll down Main Street (Le Grand Rue) to see the top attractions in Old Town. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. If you dont mind braving the cold weather, the best time of year to visit Alsace would be during December. For some of the towns most picturesque homes, stroll down the main street of Rue du General de Gaulle. I want my husband to get stationed in Europe and I hope to visit these villages with my family.
Read More: One Day in Strasbourg, France Travel Guide. The city became a center of humanism in the 15th and 16th centuries and today is recognized as a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" (City of Art and History). Additionally, from September 1-October 31, you can take a short train ride on the, Eguisheim is one of the best Alsace Wine Route villages and was even voted the. The Alsace Wine Route (Route du Vin Alsace) is a designated section of the Alsace region that passes through some of the best wine-producing towns in France.
These are BEAUTIFUL places! The surrounding Pays du Mont Sainte-Odile (countryside of Mount Sainte-Odile) features scenic walking and hiking trails that draw many visitors from springtime through autumn. However, youll notice that this area truly comes alive during the winter holidays when its small towns host charming, If youre planning an Alsace road trip, the most challenging part is choosing which villages to visit along your drive. Kaysersberg is one of the most beautiful villages in France and one of the best places to visit in Alsace. We suggest seeing Riquewihr as a day trip from Colmar or as a day trip from Strasbourg if you dont have much time in the area. Other cultural events include the Kougelhopf Festival in early May (devoted to the special cake made with raisons and almonds) and the Festival de Musique Ancienne that presents a program of music concerts (focused on medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque music) from mid-September through October. The typical Alsatian village of Eguisheim (five kilometers from Colmar) is nestled in a sunny valley surrounded by the vine-covered foothills of the Vosges Mountains. For those who want to experience the magic of Christmastime in Alsace, Kaysersberg should be at the top of a tour itinerary in December. I tried sharing these on Twitter through the social tweet button below your post, but it didn't work. Interestingly, this medieval city was built in the shape of concentric circles surrounding the main square. Heres an interesting fact about Tuckheim: the village is one of the few in France to employ a municipal night watchman still. Just keep in mind that the overall busiest months are June, July, and August. Mittelbergheim is also renowned for its gastronomy. Visitors can begin this gourmet experience by sampling cheeses at the Maison du Fromage (a museum devoted to cheese) and at farmhouse inns. Since the castle was built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufens, this amazing monument has witnessed the course of European history. Interestingly, this medieval city was built in the shape of concentric circles surrounding the main square. The good news is no matter where youre located, this region of France is very accessible. In this pristine countryside, there is a wide selection of hotels and inns that offer an escape to nature. If youre planning to fly from the United States, To check train times, youll need to visit the. About 25 kilometers south of Strasbourg, this Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire has retained its medieval ambience, seen in the 13th-century tower, old town gates, narrow pedestrian lanes, and characteristic burghers' houses. During this time of year, youll experience harvest season in the vineyards. Although the Christmas markets attract a flurry of other visitors during the winter, I still recommend traveling here during this high season. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If youre not particularly interested in visiting the Christmas markets, I suggest traveling to Alsace sometime between May and October. With its historic neighborhoods, winding pedestrian streets, and atmospheric canals, Colmar has retained the enchantment of a bygone era. Troubadours (singers, clowns, dancers) entertain the crowds, adding to the authentic ambience. Colmar has earned the distinction of a "Ville Fleurie" (Flowering City) because of its vibrant floral displays. Built in 1699 as a citadel for King Louis XIV (the Sun King), Neuf-Brisach features architecture never before seen in Europe and is considered a masterpiece of Vauban. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. This exciting event features snacks, arts and crafts for purchase, live music, and games for children. Surrounded by vine-covered hills and woodlands, this winsome country hamlet features quiet streets lined with floral-adorned half-timbered houses. This delightful village (three kilometers from Andlau) has a remarkable unity of architectural style, with most buildings dating to the 17th and 18th centuries. If you happen to be visiting Eguisheim during the last weekend in August, youre in for a treat! So, lets go over some of the leading travel options. In fact, the, Other sights not to miss includethe Colmar Cathedral, the OldCustoms House(.
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Kaysersberg, Ribeauvill historic houses with floral displays. Although its not quite as well known as other markets in the Alsace region, we think its well worth visiting! This position is part of a tradition commemorating a watchman who prevented a fire during the 13th century. This venue also serves ham and cheese platters if youd like a little snack with your wine. Turckheim is a short 10-minute drive from Colmar, making it a convenient stop along the Alsace Wine Route. Its best known for the Alsatian wine route, adorable half-timbered houses, and traditional dishes and desserts, such as tarte flambe, baeckeoffe, and pain dpice. Therefore, this article lists the top eight Alsace towns to see on your trip, featuring famous villageslike Colmar, Riquewihr, and Ribeauvillas well as some hidden gems. This explains why bears make an appearance at the Eglise Abbatiale Saints-Pierre-et-Paul. At the foot of Mount Saint Odile in a ravishing landscape of vine-covered fields, Mittelbergheim is one of the "Plus Beaux Villages de France." They run every day except for Mondays and Saturdays (from May to October). Luckily, the train ride from Paris to Strasbourg should only take about two hours. A magnificent Christmas tree and magical illuminations decorate the town, while a festive March de Nol (Christmas Market) brings together artisan vendors that sell authentic locally made crafts. If youre planning an Alsace road trip, the most challenging part is choosing which villages to visit along your drive. Visitors enter the town through its medieval gates, relics of the ancient ramparts: the 14th-century Porte de France, the Porte de Munster, and the Porte du Brand. The trail is free to access; however, the road closes for safety reasons during the winter months: from November 11-March 15. Driving the Ring of Kerry Route in Ireland: Map and the Best Stops! The Riquewihr Christmas market, running from the end of November through late December, is the towns top attraction. The main street of the village, the rue du Gnral-de-Gaulle, is a lovely place for a leisurely stroll. This monument is a rare example of defensive religious architecture. involves open cellars for wine tastings, an orchestra performance, and a huge parade. Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Learn how your comment data is processed. As Colmar is part of the Alsace Wine Region, dont forget to sample some local wine! Nonetheless, due to the regions mild climate, theres never really a wrong time to visit. The village is also famous for its March de Nol (Christmas festivities, from December 1st to 24th), which include an Advent Calendar ritual at the Town Hall with candle lightings, Christmas carols, and "Wiehnachts Bredele" (Christmas cakes). Obernai is also a popular place to travel during the holidays. Without a doubt, the most popular activity is to take a boat from the Saint Pierre Bridge through the canals in Little Venice (la Petite Venise). The castle also has a Medieval Garden planted with flowers, plants, and medicinal herbs used during the Middle Ages.
Within a maze of cobblestone streets, the medieval town of Molsheim boasts wonderfully preserved old houses and historic monuments. A short walk away from the Place du March is the Office of Tourism on the Place Beffroi, which occupies a quaint half-timbered house bedecked with potted flowers. I recommend going to Le Cercle des Aromes wine bar for a tasting. As you make your way through Riquewihr, you may notice that it looks like Belles home in the classic film Beauty and the Beast! Local specialties include Fleischkiechles (ground meat patties), Baeckeoffe (meat stew topped with sliced potatoes), trout in a special sauce, and Tartes Flambes (Alsatian-style pizza made with cream and Emmental cheese). If you choose to travel via train, Alsace has two train stations: one in Strasbourg and the other in Mulhouse. Flights to Alsace are available for many of the bigger cities in Europe, including Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Rome, Barcelona, and Madrid. The attractive and cultured town of Guebwiller stands at the foot of the "Grand Ballon," the highest summit of the Vosges Mountains. ), hand-crafted souvenirs (wreaths, ornaments, and other decorations), and live music. Covered Market Hall, the Pfister House, and the colorful historic homes inthe fishmongers district.
Several trails outside the village afford wonderful views of the idyllic scenery. Another popular activity here is to hike The Three Castles of Ribeauvill Trail, leading to Castle Saint Ulrich, Castle Girsberg, and Castle Haut Ribeaupierreall of which date back to the Middle Ages. Also known as "Little Venice," this quarter is where tourists can embark on a boat tour around the canals. This breathtaking castle (15 kilometers from Ribeauvill and 10 kilometers from Bergheim) is an important symbol of the Alsatian heritage.
From most major European cities, youll either be able to take a train or fly to the Alsace region. You can see him make his rounds at 10 p.m. from May 1-October 31 and on the three Saturdays before Christmas. Eguisheim's captivating ambience makes it one of Alsace's top destinations for Christmas. This option offers a lot more flexibility to stop and see as many Alsace villages as you would like.
From most major European cities, youll either be able to take a train or fly to the Alsace region. The market takes its name from the word "bredele," which describes a variety of Christmas cookies ranging from vanilla butter cookies and gingerbread to meringues and hazelnut cookies. This way, youll have the chance to witness the Alsace villages in all their Christmas glory. Written by Lisa AlexanderUpdated Mar 29, 2021, We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). Plus, if youd rather explore Colmar in a group, check out this two-hour Segway tour through the city. Best Time to Visit Peru: Climate Guide to Machu Picchu, Cusco, & More! Plus, this town has quite an eventful past; in fact, it was given status as a free imperial city back in 1312, under the Holy Roman Empire. Other whimsical bear sculptures decorate public spaces throughout the town. Plus, you can visit the top tourist attractions here year-round, making the Alsace region a convenient option for a vacation to France. For such a tiny village, there are plenty of cafs, bakeries, boutiques, and restaurants that appeal to the many tourists who visit throughout the year. For history lovers, make sure to spend some time at the Unterlinden Museum, the most visited museum in Alsace. To check train times, youll need to visit the SNCF website. For example, it hosts the Colmar International Festival each year during the first two weeks in July and a bustling Christmas market from the last week of November through the end of December. I'll look into this ASAP! Picturesque vine-covered hills envelope this lovely small town, which has many flower-bedecked half-timbered houses. Tourists can walk a few blocks from the Puits aux Six Seaux to the Place de l'toile, a lovely square with angular half-timbered houses and storks' nests on the roofs. Besides its pastoral charm, Hunawihr has a few unique tourist attractions: the Butterfly Garden, which allows exotic butterflies to flourish in greenhouses that replicate natural habitats; and the Stork Reintroduction Center, which reintroduces native storks into the wild to help this endangered species survive. The village is a cluster of enchanting cobblestone lanes that wind around in a concentric pattern, giving the feel of being in a fairy-tale world. Aerial view of Chteau du Haut-Koenigsbourg. Well also cover things to do in Alsace, the best time to visit, how to get there, and accommodations. As a testimony to its rich cultural heritage, Slestat has a library founded in 1452, which possesses thousands of valuable manuscripts dating from the 7th to the 16th centuries. Located on a wooded ridge at 753 meters above the surrounding countryside, Mont Sainte-Odile offers a peaceful natural environment and awe-inspiring views. Learn about the best places to visit in this beautiful region with our list of the top Alsace villages and medieval towns. So, youll see all sorts of autumnal colors throughout the fields! The rez-de-chausse (street level) of La Metzig is now a restaurant that serves authentic Alsatian cuisine. During the period of Advent, the town celebrates the season with an event called "Bredelmarik," a market devoted to traditional Alsatian Christmas cakes and cookies. For a unique experience, visit Ribeauvill during The Minstrels Festival, which takes place on the first Sunday in September. Since Obernai is located along the Alsace Wine Route, we also suggest dropping by the Vins dAlsace Robert Blanck while youre in town. The village comes alive thanks to the Vignerons Festival of Eguisheim, the oldest Alsatian wine festival.
Nonetheless, if youd prefer warmer weather but fewer crowds, you should consider planning your trip to the Alsace region during the fall. With this in mind, if youd like to skip peak season in Alsace, the best time to visit Alsace is probably in May, September, or October. The village's enchantment is further revealed in its atmospheric cobblestone streets and small squares.
Although the 19th-century Jewish synagogue is now closed, tourists can still appreciate its neo-Romanesque facade. Dambach-la-Ville is a popular stop along the Alsace Wine Route, tucked between Blienschwiller and Scherwiller in the Bas-Rhin department.