Best Day Trips from Strasbourg, France
Discover the Hidden Gems of Alsace and Beyond
Strasbourg’s strategic location makes it the perfect base for exploring the enchanting Alsace region and neighboring countries. As a local guide who’s ventured countless times along these routes, I’ll share the most rewarding day trips from Strasbourg that showcase the region’s rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures. You can take a short drive or train to scenic villages, castles, or stunning natural landscapes.
Top Day Trips in Alsace
1. Colmar France: The Fairy Tale Town
Why you should visit?
Just an hour away from Strasbourg, Colmar is a charming town that looks straight out of a storybook. Known for its well-preserved medieval and early Renaissance architecture, Colmar’s old town is a maze of cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and picturesque canals. Don’t miss the “Little Venice” area, the Unterlinden Museum, and the beautiful Saint-Martin Collegiate Church.
How to Reach?
Colmar is easily accessible by train from Strasbourg, with a journey time of about 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 1 hour.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and early summer (April to June) are ideal for visiting Colmar, as the weather is mild, and the flowers are in full bloom. The Christmas season is also magical, with its famous Christmas markets.
2. The Alsace Wine Route: A Paradise for Wine Lovers
Why you should visit?
One of the most popular day trips from Strasbourg, the Route des Vins winds through postcard-perfect villages and rolling vineyards. This day trip offers the chance to taste some of the best Alsatian wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and explore beautiful villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim, which are often ranked among the most beautiful in France. Add these key stops in your itinerary:
1. Riquewihr Village:
- Medieval walls and towers,
- Famous Riesling wine tastings,
- Exceptional preserved architecture
2. Eguisheim Village:
- Circular medieval village layout,
- Award-winning wine cellars,
- Stunning floral displays
3. Kaysersberg Village:
- Albert Schweitzer’s birthplace,
- Beautiful castle ruins,
- Excellent local markets
How to Reach?
The Alsace Wine Route is easily accessible by car, and you can choose to drive along the route, stopping at the villages and wineries that interest you the most. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour from Strasbourg.
Best time to Visit?
The best time to visit is during the harvest season in September and October when the vineyards are full of activity, and many villages hold wine festivals.
Cross-Border Adventures
3. The Black Forest, Germany: Nature and Culture Combined
Why you should visit?
The mysterious Black Forest lies just across the Rhine, making it perfect for day trips from Strasbourg. Known for its dense forests, picturesque villages, and cuckoo clocks, the Black Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and even skiing in winter. Visit the spa town of Baden-Baden, take a scenic drive through the forest, or enjoy a slice of the famous Black Forest cake.
How to Reach?
The Black Forest is about an hour’s drive from Strasbourg. You can also take a train to Offenburg or Baden-Baden, followed by a bus or local train into the heart of the forest.
Best time to Visit?
The Black Forest is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring and summer are perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, while winter offers skiing and a magical snowy landscape.
4. Obernai: A Quaint Alsatian Village
Why you should visit?
Obernai is a quintessential Alsatian village, known for its half-timbered houses, bustling markets, and rich culinary traditions. Stroll through the charming streets, visit the Gothic-style St. Peter and St. Paul Church, and indulge in local Alsatian delicacies at a traditional winstub (wine tavern). Obernai is also a great starting point for exploring the Alsace Wine Route.
How to Reach?
Obernai is a 30-minute drive from Strasbourg. You can also take a regional train, which takes about 25 minutes.
Best time to Visit?
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the village hosts various festivals, including the popular wine festival in August.
5. Nancy: Art Nouveau Capital of France
Why you should visit?
Nancy is known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and the grand Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, and theaters, makes it a must-visit for art lovers. Take a leisurely walk through the old town, visit the Musée de l’École de Nancy, and enjoy a meal at one of the city’s renowned restaurants.
How to Reach?
Nancy is about a 1.5-hour train ride from Strasbourg, making it an easy and convenient day trip.
Best time to Visit?
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Nancy, offering pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The annual Nancy Jazz Pulsations festival in October is also a great time to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene.
Hidden Gems Within Alsace
6. Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: A Journey Through Time
Why you should visit?
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Alsace plain, Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval life. This fully restored fortress dates back to the 12th century and has been a witness to centuries of European history. Explore its impressive towers, ramparts, and grand halls, and imagine the battles and royal intrigues that once took place here.
How to Reach?
The castle is about a 50-minute drive from Strasbourg. If you’re relying on public transport, take a train to Sélestat, followed by a shuttle bus to the castle.
Best time to Visit?
Visit during the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Places To Visit in Strasbourg, France
La Petite France Strasbourg
A charming district with narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and scenic canals, La Petite France is perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame)
This iconic Gothic cathedral, with its intricate facade and stunning rose window, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The highlight is the astronomical clock, a marvel of engineering and artistry.
Musée de l'Euvre Notre-Dame
Located next to the cathedral, this museum showcases a collection of medieval and Renaissance art, including sculptures, paintings, and stained glass.