Strasbourg and its cathedral
The Alsatian capital combines a Gothic cathedral, the Petite France district and canals, in an atmosphere blending French and Germanic influences.
Alsace
Between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine, Alsace unfolds flower-decked, half-timbered villages, a renowned wine route and the elegance of Strasbourg. A region where gastronomy, medieval heritage and gentle living come together through the seasons.
Why visit Alsace?
Alsace stands out for the density of its architectural heritage, its picturesque wine villages and its border position between France, Germany and Switzerland. The region combines cultural tourism, wine tourism along the wine route and hiking in the Vosges mountains, with a strong culinary identity and renowned Christmas markets in winter.
What to discover in Alsace?
Strasbourg, the regional capital and seat of European institutions, blends its Gothic cathedral, the half-timbered houses of the Petite France district and its navigable canals. Further south, Colmar extends this atmosphere with colorful facades and canals nicknamed "Little Venice". Between the two, the Alsace wine route links, over nearly 170 kilometers, villages such as Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Ribeauvillé, surrounded by hillside vineyards.
The Vosges mountains to the west offer rounded summits, forests and lakes ideal for hiking in both summer and winter. Alsatian gastronomy, from choucroute to flammekueche and white wines such as riesling and gewurztraminer, is an integral part of the regional experience. In December, the Christmas markets of Strasbourg, Colmar and Kaysersberg draw visitors from across Europe around a centuries-old festive tradition.
Cities to visit in Alsace
Featured destinations appear first.
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Alsace in pictures
The must-sees
Half-timbered villages, the wine route and Christmas markets: here is what not to miss in Alsace.
The wine route
Stretching nearly 170 kilometers, this route links wine villages and hillside vineyards, offering tastings and well-kept scenery through the seasons.
Colmar and Little Venice
Its colorful half-timbered houses and navigable canals make Colmar one of the most photographed stops in the region.
Listed villages
Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Kaysersberg rank among the most beautiful villages in France, with ramparts, fountains and old houses.
The Vosges mountains
Rounded peaks, forests and mountain lakes offer varied hiking routes, along with resorts for the winter season.
The Christmas markets
In December, Strasbourg and Colmar fill their squares with wooden chalets, decorations and local specialties, in an old and popular tradition.
Practical information
- Capital
- Strasbourg
- Area
- About 8,280 km²
- Population
- About 1.9 million inhabitants
- Languages
- French, Alsatian dialect
- Currency
- Euro (€)
- Time zone
- UTC+1 (UTC+2 in summer)
- Climate
- Semi-continental
- Best season
- Spring to autumn, December for Christmas markets
Frequently asked questions
When to visit Alsace?
Spring and summer are ideal for the wine route and the Vosges, while December draws visitors for the Christmas markets, the busiest period of the year.
How many days are needed to visit Alsace?
About 4 to 5 days allow you to discover Strasbourg, Colmar and a few wine route villages, with a week leaving more room for the Vosges.
How do you get around Alsace?
A car is practical for linking wine villages, but trains serve Strasbourg, Colmar and Mulhouse well for an itinerary without driving.
Which villages should you see on the wine route?
Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg are among the most popular stops, each with its own architecture and wine estates.
Are the Christmas markets very crowded?
Yes, especially in Strasbourg and Colmar on weekends and during school holidays; booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
Is Alsace suitable for families?
Yes, between picturesque villages, outdoor activities in the Vosges and Christmas events in winter, the region offers activities suited to all ages.
Plan your trip to Alsace
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
