TOURISM IN ALSACE
" Discover Alsace "
Visiting Alsace
A land of tradition and contrasts, Alsace is also a most welcoming region.
From its tumultuous past, it has retained a strong temperament, deep-rooted traditions and a culture of sharing and conviviality, perfectly illustrated by its capital Strasbourg, which is both resolutely European and definitively Alsatian. The charming towns of Colmar, where the half-timbered houses lining the quays are reflected in the water, need no introduction. You'll be amazed at the number of medieval villages like Riquewihr, where ramparts still standing conceal a small heritage of wells and enclosed courtyards.
From the edge of the Vosges mountains to the north of Alsace, the region jealously preserves its village atmosphere. In fact, the only way to really discover it is to take part in the traditional festivals that punctuate its flower-filled villages. In Alsace, gastronomy is unquestionably a living heritage. Even before stopping off at Sélestat to sample genuine Alsatian sauerkraut or try the excellent local foie gras, the famous Alsatian wine route will impress you with the reputation of its seven great grape varieties.
In terms of nature, the region watches over its regional parks and nature reserves. On the cultural side, its museums and châteaux showcase a rich architectural, industrial and artistic heritage.
Alsace tourism: the must-sees
- See Kaysersberg, a village that is the guardian of Alsatian traditions par excellence, and in particular its Christmas market
- Move from the European business district to the Petite France district to see just how much Strasbourg is a city of contrasts. And don't forget, just a few steps are enough to cross the border into Germany without even realising it!
- Take a romantic stroll and a boat trip along the canals of Colmar, admiring its half-timbered facades.
- Venture onto the ramparts of Obernai, where medieval and Renaissance heritage coexist. Don't miss the belfry and the Puits à Six Seaux (six-bucket well), or the narrow streets where traces of the German and French royal tutelage can still be seen.
- Take your children and teenagers to the Cité de l'Automobile in Mulhouse, the largest museum of its kind in the world. While visiting this incredible collection of cars, you can crank up a Torpedo, for example.
- Take the time to follow the long Alsace Wine Route. After an enjoyable tasting session with enthusiastic winegrowers, you'll know the names of Alsace's seven AOCs: Gewurztraminer, Sylvaner, Riesling, Tokay Pinot gris, Pinot blanc, Pinot noir and Riesling.
- Admire the religious art collections at the Musée Unterlinden in Colmar. A modern building housing contemporary collections has been added to the former 13th-century Dominican convent. A successful marriage in every respect.
- Take on the fortress of Haut-Koenigsbourg, perched at an altitude of almost 800m and in very good condition despite its nine centuries of existence. On a clear day, you can see the Alps from its ramparts!
- Dare to visit Northern Alsace and Betschdorf, renowned for the admirable work of its potters.
- Push open the door of a farmhouse inn to enjoy a "marcaire" meal. A delicious and rich traditional meal based on winegrower's pie, smoked pork, potatoes simmered with onions and a home-made tart.