Background

Alsace: Where French Charm Meets German Tradition

Discover Alsace: A charming blend of French and German culture, picturesque villages, and scenic vineyards in northeastern France.

Alsace, a region in northeastern France, boasts a unique blend of French and German cultures, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and dialect. Famous for its picturesque villages, vineyards, and historical landmarks, Alsace offers a captivating travel experience.

A brief summary to Alsace

Local tips

  • Explore the Alsace Wine Route to discover picturesque villages and sample local wines.
  • Visit the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, Colmar, and other towns for a festive experience.
  • Hike in the Vosges Mountains for stunning views and outdoor adventures.
  • Try local Alsatian cuisine, such as Flammekueche, Choucroute, and Kouglof.
  • Learn a few basic Alsatian phrases to connect with locals and appreciate the region's unique culture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Alsace is well-connected by train and bus, making it easy to travel between cities and villages. From major cities like Strasbourg or Colmar, regional trains (TER) provide frequent service to smaller towns. For destinations not directly served by train, buses offer connections, often synchronized with train schedules. The Fluo Grand Est website provides comprehensive information on public transport options, including routes, timetables, and fares. A single bus ticket between villages typically costs a few euros. Consider the Alsa+ Groupe Day ticket for unlimited travel on TER trains and buses within Alsace on weekends and public holidays, costing around €39.10 for 2 to 5 people. From Euroairport, a shuttle bus connects to Saint-Louis train station (€2.50), with onward train connections to Mulhouse, Colmar and Strasbourg.

  • Driving

    Alsace has an efficient motorway system, with the A35 crossing the region from north to south. The smaller roads offer a more scenic route, ideal for exploring picturesque villages and the Alsace Wine Route. Keep in mind that parking can be limited in some towns, especially during peak season. In Colmar, on-street parking rates vary by zone, with hourly rates ranging from €1.50 to €3.00. Some parking lots offer free parking for the first hour, with daily rates around €3. Strasbourg offers Park-and-Ride (P+R) options, where you can park near a tram station and take the tram into the city center, with combined parking and tram tickets available for around €4.10. Parking at Strasbourg airport ranges from €3.80 to €4.40 for the first 15 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Alsace

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Alsace

Alsace, nestled in northeastern France on the Rhine River's west bank, presents a captivating fusion of French and German cultures. Throughout history, Alsace has been a region of contention between France and Germany, resulting in a unique cultural identity that distinguishes it from other French regions. This blend is apparent in the region's architecture, with half-timbered houses and medieval castles dotting the landscape. The region's rich history dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation dating back 700,000 years. Over the centuries, Alsace has been influenced by Celtic, Roman, and Germanic tribes, each leaving their mark on the region's culture and identity. During the Middle Ages, Alsace thrived as part of the Holy Roman Empire, with Strasbourg gaining the status of a free imperial city. The Thirty Years' War in the 17th century brought devastation to the region, leading to its annexation by France. However, Alsace retained its cultural distinctiveness, even under French rule. Alsace is renowned for its charming villages, such as Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr, which boast colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and flower-filled window boxes. The region is also famous for its vineyards, which produce distinctive white wines such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. The Alsace Wine Route offers a scenic journey through the vineyards, with opportunities to sample local wines and explore picturesque villages. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Vosges Mountains, which offer hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Its iconic cathedral, charming Petite France district, and numerous museums and cultural institutions make it a must-see destination.

Popular Experiences near Alsace

Popular Hotels near Alsace

Select Currency