Alsace, France Travel Guide

Discover Alsace: A scenic region of France blending French and German cultures, famed for its charming villages, world-class wines, and stunning natural landscapes.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of France, Alsace is a region where picturesque villages, rolling vineyards, and a rich cultural tapestry come together to enchant visitors. This destination is renowned for its half-timbered houses adorned with geraniums, cobblestone streets, and a unique blend of French and German influences. Wander through towns like Colmar and Strasbourg, where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. Alsace is a paradise for wine lovers, boasting the famous Alsace Wine Route. Here, you can sample exquisite Rieslings and Gewürztraminers directly from the source. The region's culinary heritage is equally compelling, with hearty dishes like choucroute garnie and tarte flambée offering a true taste of local traditions. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the Vosges Mountains, where scenic hiking trails and stunning panoramas await. The region is also home to many castles and fortresses, such as the impressive Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, offering a glimpse into Alsace's storied past.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Alsace.

Visit in late spring or early autumn for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Try the local wines by visiting family-run vineyards along the Alsace Wine Route.
Don't miss the Christmas markets in cities like Strasbourg for a festive experience.
Hiking in the Vosges Mountains offers breathtaking views and a chance to see local wildlife.
Take a boat tour in Strasbourg to explore the city from its charming canals.

Top City Travel Guides in Alsace

The cities of Alsace, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Strasbourg

Colmar

Nancy

Destinations in Alsace

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Vosges Mountains

Alsace Wine Route

Explore Alsace: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Alsace

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Historical Merchants' Hall

Explore the Historical Merchants' Hall in Freiburg, a stunning Gothic architectural gem showcasing the city's rich trading heritage and vibrant cultural events.

4.7

Sipp Louis Wines of Alsace

Discover the charm of Alsace at Sipp Louis Wines in Ribeauvillé, where exquisite wines and stunning landscapes await every visitor.

4.5

Schloss Neuweier

Explore the enchanting Schloss Neuweier in Baden-Baden: A serene winery and hotel offering exquisite wines and luxurious accommodations amidst stunning vineyard views.

4.5

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

Explore the majestic Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, a beautifully restored medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Alsace and a captivating journey through centuries of history.

4.6

Best landmarks in Alsace

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Best Landmarks

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Place Kléber

Discover the vibrant culture and history of Strasbourg at Place Kléber, the city's iconic square filled with shops, cafes, and stunning architecture.

4.5

Grande-Île de Strasbourg

Explore the enchanting Grande-Île of Strasbourg, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Kloster Lichtenthal

Explore the calm and historic Kloster Lichtenthal in Baden-Baden, a serene retreat with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

4.5

Sigolsheim national cemetery

Explore the serene Sigolsheim National Cemetery in Kaysersberg-Vignoble, a poignant tribute to fallen soldiers amidst stunning Alsatian scenery.

4.7

Best restaurants in Alsace

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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La Corde à Linge

Experience the rich flavors of Alsace at La Corde à Linge, where tradition meets contemporary cuisine in the heart of Strasbourg.

4.2

Auberge de l'Ill

Experience the pinnacle of French gastronomy at Auberge de l'Ill, where every dish is a masterpiece in the heart of Alsace.

4.8

WISTUB BRENNER

Experience authentic Alsatian cuisine at Wistub Brenner in Colmar - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.2

Les Chefs d’Oeuvre d'Alsace

Experience the essence of Alsatian cuisine at Les Chefs d’Oeuvre d'Alsace - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

4.7

Best bars in Alsace

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Les Berthom

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm at Les Berthom, a top-rated bar in Strasbourg with an extensive drink selection.

4.5

Jeannette and the Cycleux

Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Jeannette and the Cycleux, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments in Strasbourg.

4.5

The 3 Monkeys

Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious menu at The 3 Monkeys Pub in Colmar, where local culture meets exceptional dining.

4.5

Le Grincheux

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Le Grincheux, a charming bar and café in Strasbourg, perfect for relaxation and local flavors.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Alsace

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The Café des Anges

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Strasbourg at Café des Anges, where music and dancing create unforgettable memories.

3.3

R Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at R Club in Strasbourg, where music and dance create an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.

2.7

Discothèque NEXT CLUB Strasbourg

Discover the electrifying nightlife at NEXT CLUB Strasbourg, a premier disco club featuring vibrant music, ambiance, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.7

LE MANHATTAN

Unleash your energy at Le Manhattan, Haguenau's top disco club, where unforgettable nights of music and dance await.

4.3

Best shops in Alsace

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Roppenheim The Style Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant shopping atmosphere at Roppenheim The Style Outlets, your ultimate shopping destination in France.

4.3

Centre Commercial Shop'in Houssen

Discover an incredible shopping experience at Centre Commercial Shop'in Houssen in Houssen, France, where style meets convenience and culinary delights await.

4.2

Shopping Promenade - Coeur Alsace

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Shopping Promenade - Coeur Alsace, featuring diverse stores, family-friendly entertainment, and delightful dining options.

4.3

Le Palais Du Pain D'épices

Experience the sweet heritage of Alsace at Le Palais Du Pain D'épices, a gourmet grocery store and bakery specializing in exquisite gingerbread.

4.6

Explore Alsace on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Alsace, mapped for you.

Alsace Essentials

Alsace is located in northeastern France, bordering Germany and Switzerland. The closest major airports are Strasbourg International Airport (SXB) and EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP), both of which offer numerous international flights. From Paris, you can take a high-speed TGV train directly to Strasbourg, Colmar, or Mulhouse. The train journey from Paris to Strasbourg takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, Alsace is well-connected by road, and you can rent a car for a scenic drive through the region.
Alsace offers a variety of transportation options. The efficient train network connects major cities and towns, making it easy to travel between Strasbourg, Colmar, and Mulhouse. Regional buses and trams operate within cities and towns. Renting a car is recommended for exploring rural areas and vineyards. Bicycles are also a popular and eco-friendly mode of transport, with numerous cycling paths available.
The official currency in France is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Alsace, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and markets. ATMs are readily available in cities and larger towns. Contactless payment is common, and mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also frequently accepted.
Alsace is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel location, it is wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Strasbourg is a large city and has some areas where pickpocketing can occur, particularly around the train station and tourist hotspots. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the pan-European emergency number. The local police station and hospitals in major cities like Strasbourg, Colmar, and Mulhouse are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues, and many staff members speak English.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting upscale locations. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and trams. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Bonjour' (Good day) and a handshake. Avoid overly familiar greetings with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like tarte flambée and Alsatian wines. Don't rush meals; dining is a leisurely affair in Alsace.
To experience Alsace like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce, cheese, and traditional Alsatian goods. Participate in wine tastings at local vineyards and engage in conversations with winemakers. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride through the picturesque villages along the Route des Vins d'Alsace (Alsace Wine Route). Attend local festivals such as the Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar, which offer an authentic taste of Alsatian culture.

When is the best time to visit Alsace?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Alsace

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Alsace. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalut
  [sa-lu]
- GoodbyeAu revoir
  [o ruh-vwar]
- YesOui
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [non]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMerci
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
  [ex-kew-zay mwah]
- How are you?Comment ça va?
  [koh-mohn sah vah]
- Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
  [byan. eh voo]
- Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
  [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
- I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
  [zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir le menu, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray vwar luh meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
  [zhuh nuh mahnzh pah duh vyahnd]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
  [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Au secours!
  [o suh-koor]
- Go away!Allez-vous en!
  [ah-lay voo zahn]
- Call the Police!Appelez la police!
  [ah-peh-lay lah po-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appelez un docteur!
  [ah-peh-lay uhn dohk-teur]
- I'm lostJe suis perdu
  [zhuh swee pair-due]
- I'm illJe suis malade
  [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
  [zhuh voo-dray ah-she-tay]
- I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
  [zhuh ruh-gard zhoost]
- How much is it?C'est combien?
  [say kohm-byen]
- That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
  [say troh shair]
- Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
  [poo-vay voo beh-say luh pree]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
  [kel uhr eh-teel]
- It's one o'clockIl est une heure
  [eel eh ewn uhr]
- Half past (10)Dix heures et demie
  [dees uhr eh duh-mee]
- MorningMatin
  [mah-tan]
- AfternoonAprès-midi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
- EveningSoir
  [swahr]
- YesterdayHier
  [ee-air]
- TodayAujourd'hui
  [oh-zhoor-dwee]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1Un
  [uhn]
- 2Deux
  [duhr]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Quatre
  [ka-truh]
- 5Cinq
  [sank]
- 6Six
  [sees]
- 7Sept
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Neuf
  [nuhf]
- 10Dix
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Où est un/une...?
  [oo eh uhn/oon]
- What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
  [kel eh lah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
  [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (sur lah kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
  [kahn eh luh pro-shen (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
  [uhn bee-yay (poor ....)]

History of Alsace

The region of Alsace has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of early human settlements dating back to the Paleolithic era. The strategic location of Alsace along the Rhine River made it an important area for the Romans, who established the city of Argentoratum, now known as Strasbourg. The Roman influence is still visible in architectural remnants and archaeological sites scattered across the region.
During the Middle Ages, Alsace became a part of the Holy Roman Empire. The region saw the rise of fortified castles, such as Haut-Koenigsbourg, and the establishment of prosperous medieval towns like Colmar and Mulhouse. The period was marked by the growth of trade and the influence of various noble families who left a lasting legacy in the form of splendid Gothic cathedrals and half-timbered houses.
The 16th century brought the Protestant Reformation to Alsace, profoundly impacting the religious landscape of the region. Strasbourg became a center for Protestant thought and education. The region experienced religious tensions and conflicts, leading to a diverse mix of Catholic and Protestant communities that continue to coexist today.
Alsace was significantly affected by the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648), suffering immense devastation and population loss. The war ended with the Treaty of Westphalia, which resulted in Alsace becoming part of France under the rule of Louis XIV. This treaty marked the beginning of French influence in the region, which would continue for centuries.
In 1871, following the Franco-Prussian War, Alsace was annexed by the newly formed German Empire. This period of German control lasted until the end of World War I in 1918, during which time the region experienced significant Germanization efforts. The influence of German culture and language during this period is still evident in the local dialects and traditions.
Alsace was returned to France after World War I, as stipulated by the Treaty of Versailles. However, during World War II, Alsace was once again under German occupation from 1940 to 1945. The region witnessed significant resistance activities and suffered from the brutalities of war. After the liberation, Alsace was reintegrated into France, solidifying its place within the French Republic.
In the post-war era, Alsace became a symbol of European reconciliation and integration. Strasbourg, the regional capital, is home to several key European institutions, including the European Parliament. Today, Alsace is known for its rich cultural heritage, blending French and German influences. The region is celebrated for its picturesque villages, renowned wine route, and unique Alsatian cuisine, making it a vibrant and dynamic destination for travelers.