11 Must-See Attractions In Alsace

Alsace, the enchanting region of Eastern France, is a dream destination for many travelers. Rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, this region offers a plethora of places to explore and experiences to remember. From picturesque villages to majestic castles, from delicious culinary delights to world-class wines, Alsace has something for everyone. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of the 11 must-see attractions in Alsace that will leave you mesmerized and longing to come back for more!

Strasbourg's Cathedral

The Cathedral was completed in 1439, and its architecture reflects a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles. The building sits on the site of an earlier Romanesque church that had been destroyed in a fire. It is said that its construction was a competition between Strasbourg and Cologne to see who could build the tallest cathedral in Europe.

The Cathedral's most striking feature is its 466-foot spire, which has served as a beacon for sailors and travellers for centuries. The spire was added in the 15th century and surpasses that of Strasbourg's other iconic building, the European Parliament.

Visitors to the Cathedral can climb the 330 steps to the top of the spire, a dizzying experience that rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the Alsace region. The interior of the Cathedral is equally impressive, with its intricately designed stained glass windows and the Pipe Organ, which is one of the largest in the world.

The Cathedral played an important role in the history of Alsace. During the 16th century, it served as a Protestant Church, but in the 17th century, the Catholic Church regained control. The Cathedral was also damaged during the French Revolution but was restored in the 19th century.

Today, the Cathedral attracts visitors from all over the world and is a symbol of Strasbourg's proud heritage. It is also a testament to the incredible skill and dedication of the craftsmen who built this magnificent work of art.

In conclusion, Strasbourg's Cathedral is a must-visit landmark of Alsace. Its stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture, towering spires, and rich history make it a truly unique and unforgettable sight. Climbing its steps and experiencing the charm of the Cathedral's interior will leave any visitor in awe and appreciation of this incredible architectural masterpiece.

Petite France neighborhood in Strasbourg

Petite France neighborhood, situated in the heart of the city of Strasbourg, is one of the most picturesque and charming neighborhoods in the Alsace region of eastern France. This area was one of the most important parts of the city during the Middle Ages, but today it is famous for its pretty half-timbered houses, canals, charming bridges, and cobbled streets.

The Petite France neighborhood is located on the Grand Île or the Main Island in Strasbourg, and it is surrounded by the narrow channels of the River Ill. The area was once home to tanners, millers, and fishermen who worked along the canals. The name “Petite France” is thought to have originated from the German term, “Klein-Frankreich,” which means “Little France,” a name given to the area by the soldiers who were stationed here in the 16th century.

One of the most charming features of this neighborhood is the picturesque houses that line the canals; their half-timbered framework, colored shutters, and flower boxes give them a charming, fairy-tale quality. The houses date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and many have been transformed into restaurants, shops, or quaint guesthouses. The streets are narrow and cobbled, and as you walk around, you'll encounter many charming sights, like the Place Benjamin Zix with its picturesque timber-framed houses and the Finkwiller Bridge, the oldest in the district.

Another popular attraction in Petite France is the Barrage Vauban, which is a 17th-century dam built by the famous French military engineer, Michel de Vauban. The dam offers beautiful views over the River Ill and is a great spot for photographs. The area is also home to several important cultural institutions, such as the Museum of Alsatian Life and the Alsatian Museum.

Visiting the Petite France neighborhood in Strasbourg is an excellent way to experience the unique architecture, picturesque scenery, and rich history of the Alsace region. This charming district is a perfect spot for a romantic stroll along the canals or a leisurely lunch in a traditional Alsatian restaurant. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or aesthetics, Petite France is a must-visit attraction in Strasbourg.

The Wine Route (Route des Vins)

Alsace, a region located in the northeastern corner of France, is known for its picturesque villages, rich history, and delicious wines. And one of the best ways to experience all of these things is by exploring the famous Wine Route, or Route des Vins, that winds through the region's rolling hills and vineyards.

The Wine Route is a 170-kilometer-long path that begins in the north of Alsace, near the town of Wissembourg, and ends in the south, near the village of Thann. Along the way, travelers will encounter 70 charming wine-producing villages, each with its own distinctive character and style.

Some of the most famous wines produced along the route include Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir. These wines are known for their unique flavor profiles and are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts from around the world.

In addition to wine tastings and vineyard tours, travelers on the Wine Route can also explore many of the region's historic landmarks and cultural attractions. For example, the medieval town of Riquewihr is known for its well-preserved half-timbered houses and scenic cobblestone streets. The city of Strasbourg, the capital of the region, is home to the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral and other architectural marvels.

But perhaps the most memorable part of the Wine Route experience is simply driving or biking through the rolling vineyards and admiring the stunning natural beauty of the region. In the spring, the hillsides come alive with vibrant green foliage, while in the fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red.

Overall, the Wine Route is the perfect way to experience all that Alsace has to offer, from its world-famous wines to its charming villages and breathtaking scenery. So if you're planning a trip to France, be sure to add this unforgettable journey to your itinerary!

Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

Characteristic	Description
Name	Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg
Type	Medieval castle in Orschwiller, France
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 28,548
Address	D159, 67600 Orschwiller, France
Phone	+33 3 69 33 25 00
Profiles

History of the Castle

The castle was built in the 12th century by the Hohenstaufen dynasty, but it was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century. The castle remained in ruins for almost two centuries until it was bought by the town of Sélestat in 1865. Restoration work began in the early 20th century and was completed in 1908. The castle was then handed over to the French government and opened to the public as a museum.

Architecture and Design

The Castle Today

Today, Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Alsace region, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The castle is open year-round and offers guided tours in multiple languages as well as audio guides for self-guided tours.

Visitors can also enjoy several events and activities at the castle, such as medieval festivals, musical performances, and exhibitions. The castle's location at the edge of the Vosges Mountains makes it an ideal spot for hiking, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the castle's terraces.

Unterlinden Museum in Colmar

Characteristic	Description
Name	Unterlinden Museum
Type	Museum in Colmar, France
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 3,621
Address	Pl. des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar, France
Phone	+33 3 89 20 15 50
Profiles

Alsace is a picturesque region in northeastern France that borders Germany and Switzerland. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and world-famous wines. One of the popular destinations in the region is the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar.

Located in the heart of the Alsatian city of Colmar, the Unterlinden Museum is one of the most famous museums in France. The museum is housed in a former 13th-century Dominican convent, which underwent several renovations over the years. Today, the museum holds an extensive collection of artwork, artifacts, and historical objects that provide insight into the region's rich cultural heritage.

One of the most famous works of art displayed at the museum is the Isenheim Altarpiece. This masterpiece of German Renaissance art was created by the painter Matthias Grünewald in the 16th century and depicts the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The altarpiece is a true marvel of art and a unique treasure of the museum, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

The museum's other exhibits include sculptures, paintings, and artifacts from different periods. The medieval section features stone carvings, tombstones, and architectural elements from the Gothic period. The Renaissance section includes art from the 16th and 17th centuries, including works by local artists such as Martin Schongauer and the brothers of the Colmar school.

The museum also has an impressive collection of decorative arts, including furniture and ceramics from the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum's rich collection is complemented by the temporary exhibits that are organized throughout the year. These exhibitions explore different themes and periods, presenting the visitors with new perspectives on art and history.

The Unterlinden Museum is not only a repository of art and history, but it is also an architectural jewel. The museum's courtyard, where the convent's cloister was once located, is beautiful and peaceful. The chapel, which was preserved from the original construction, houses a baroque organ and is used for concerts and cultural events.

In conclusion, the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar is one of the most visited museums in France and a must-see destination in Alsace. The museum's collection of art and historical objects, combined with its stunning architecture, provides visitors with an unforgettable experience that will deepen their understanding of the history and culture of the region.

Château du Haut-Barr in Saverne

Characteristic	Description
Name	Château du Haut-Barr
Type	Castle in Saverne, France
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 3,393
Address	Bas-Rhin Haut Barr, 67700 Saverne, France
Phone	+33 3 88 91 80 47
Profiles

Alsace is a beautiful region in northeastern France, known for its stunning countryside, rolling vineyards, and charming towns. One of the most iconic landmarks in Alsace is the Château du Haut-Barr in Saverne, a medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

The Château du Haut-Barr, also known as Hohbarr in German, is located on a rocky outcrop that towers over the town of Saverne. Built in the 12th century, the castle was originally used as a watchtower and a defensive fortress. Over the centuries, it was expanded and renovated several times, with the most significant changes taking place during the 16th century.

Today, the Château du Haut-Barr is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alsatian countryside, including the Vosges Mountains, the Rhine River Valley, and the Black Forest in Germany. Visitors can explore the castle's many towers, ramparts, and courtyards, and learn about its rich history through guided tours and exhibits.

One of the most popular attractions at the Château du Haut-Barr is the "Devil's Bridge," a narrow stone bridge that spans a deep gorge below the castle. According to legend, the bridge was built by the devil himself, who promised to leave the town of Saverne alone if the people would give him the soul of the first person to cross the bridge. However, a clever townsman tricked the devil by sending a dog across the bridge first, saving the soul of a human.

In addition to its stunning views and rich history, the Château du Haut-Barr is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The castle is surrounded by a vast forest, known as the Saverne Forest, which offers miles of hiking and biking trails. Visitors can explore the forest on foot or by bike, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Alsatian countryside.

Overall, the Château du Haut-Barr in Saverne is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alsace. With its stunning views, rich history, and outdoor activities, it's the perfect place to experience the beauty and charm of this unique region.

Mont Sainte-Odile

Alsace is a region in eastern France that is known for its charming towns, beautiful vineyards, and mouth-watering cuisine. But one destination that particularly stands out in Alsace for its unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty is Mont Sainte-Odile.

Located in the Vosges Mountains, Mont Sainte-Odile is a rocky peak that rises to an elevation of 764 meters. The mountain is named after Saint Odile, a nun who lived in the 7th century and became famous for her miracles of healing and exorcism. Saint Odile founded a monastery on the mountain, which later became a powerful pilgrimage site for the Catholic Church.

Today, Mont Sainte-Odile is still a pilgrimage destination, but it also attracts visitors of all kinds who come for its stunning views, serene atmosphere, and intriguing history. The mountain is accessible by a winding road or a hiking trail that traverses the forested slopes and offers panoramic vistas of the Rhine Plain and the Black Forest in Germany.

At the summit, visitors can explore the Abbaye de Hohenbourg, a medieval monastery that was founded in the 7th century and destroyed by fire in the 16th century. The ruins of the abbey were later restored and transformed into a convent, which still houses a community of nuns who follow the Rule of Saint Benedict.

The main attraction for many visitors, however, is the Chapelle Sainte-Odile, a Gothic-style church that was built in the 14th century and contains numerous religious relics and artworks. The interior of the church is adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and stained-glass windows that depict the life of Saint Odile and other biblical figures.

Another highlight of Mont Sainte-Odile is the source of the Bruche River, which springs from the mountain and flows through the nearby valley. The water from the source is said to have healing properties and is bottled and sold as a local specialty.

Overall, Mont Sainte-Odile is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alsace who is interested in history, spirituality, or nature. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a casual sightseer, you will find something to appreciate and admire in this unique and enchanting mountain.

Ecomusée d'Alsace (Living Museum of Alsace)

Characteristic	Description
Name	Écomusée d'Alsace
Type	Open air museum in Ungersheim, France
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 6,640
Address	Chemin du Grosswald, 68190 Ungersheim, France
Phone	+33 3 89 74 44 74
Profiles

The Ecomusée d'Alsace, also known as the Living Museum of Alsace, is a unique open-air museum located in the picturesque region of Alsace in eastern France. This fascinating living museum is spread across 100 acres, and it features around 70 traditional Alsatian houses and buildings dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is an authentic immersion into the local history and customs of the region, and it offers visitors an exciting opportunity to step back in time and experience the daily life of the Alsace people.

The Ecomusée d'Alsace was founded in 1984, with the goal of preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of the region. Through the museum's exhibits, visitors can learn about the thriving rural communities and the skilled craftsmen who once lived and worked here. The buildings on display have been restored to their original condition, and each one displays various aspects of Alsatian life, such as farming, cheese-making, and pottery.

As visitors stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Ecomusée d'Alsace, they can explore the different parts of the museum, including the rural village, the artisan quarter, and the industrial area. The rural village is a picturesque collection of houses, farms, and gardens that showcase traditional Alsatian architecture. Visitors can see how the locals lived and worked, with displays of woodworking, beekeeping, and kitchen gardens.

The artisan quarter displays the skilled trades of the time, with demonstrations of blacksmithing, embroidery, and watchmaking. There are also displays of family life, such as the baker's house, where you can watch bread being made and sample the delicious local cuisine. The industrial area is a fascinating insight into the area's industrial heritage, with exhibits on the mills, textile factories, and brewing industry.

In addition to the outdoor exhibits, the Ecomusée d'Alsace also hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, including seasonal festivals, concerts, and workshops. Children can enjoy interactive exhibits, including a constructed playground that is inspired by traditional farm animals.

In conclusion, the Ecomusée d'Alsace is a unique and immersive experience, giving visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region. Its beautiful setting, authentic exhibits, and engaging events make it a fascinating and educational visit for all ages.

Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain in Strasbourg

Characteristic	Description
Name	Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Type	Museum in Strasbourg, France
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.3 / 3,925
Address	1 Pl. Hans-Jean-Arp, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Phone	+33 3 68 98 50 00
Profiles

The Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCS) in Strasbourg, Alsace, is one of the most important modern art museums in France. With its collection of over 18,000 works of art from the late 19th century to the present day, the MAMCS is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in contemporary art.

The museum opened its doors in 1998 and has since built up an impressive collection of works by artists from around the world. One of the standout features of the museum is its collection of works by the French painter and sculptor Jean Arp, who was born in Strasbourg. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Arp's art, including sculptures, paintings, and collages.

In addition to Arp, the museum also boasts works by other major modern and contemporary artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and Alexander Calder. The collections are arranged thematically rather than chronologically, making for an engaging and thought-provoking experience for visitors.

The museum's architecture is also a point of interest for visitors. The building was designed by the French architect Adrien Fainsilber and features a striking glass façade that reflects the surrounding landscape. The interior design is modern and minimalist, providing a perfect backdrop for the works of art.

The museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, presenting works by both established and up-and-coming artists. The focus is on contemporary art, and visitors can expect to see works that push the boundaries of traditional artistic forms.

Overall, the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain in Strasbourg is an essential destination for art lovers in Alsace and beyond. With its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art and its commitment to showcasing new and innovative works, the museum is a true cultural gem in the heart of Strasbourg.

Maison Kammerzell in Strasbourg

Maison Kammerzell is a historic building located in the heart of Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region in northeastern France. The building is popular for its remarkable architecture, which is a perfect representation of Alsatian culture.

The Maison Kammerzell was originally built in 1427 by a wealthy merchant family, but it has since been renovated several times. A major renovation took place in 1589 when it was bought by the Kammerzell family and transformed into a lavish, three-story residence. In the late 1800s, it was turned into a restaurant and has been serving traditional Alsatian cuisine ever since.

The Maison Kammerzell is a sight to behold from the outside, but the inside is equally impressive. It boasts elaborate wood carvings, painted ceilings, and intricately tiled floors. The rooms are spacious and adorned with antique furniture, further enhancing the building's historic charm.

The menu at the Kammerzell restaurant offers a range of traditional Alsatian dishes, including choucroute (pickled cabbage) served with various meats, baeckeoffe (a meat and vegetable stew), and tarte flambée (a type of thin-crust pizza topped with onions, cream, and bacon). The restaurant's proximity to Strasbourg Cathedral and other major tourist attractions make it a popular destination for visitors.

In conclusion, Maison Kammerzell is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Strasbourg. This historic building and restaurant serve as a testament to the rich Alsatian culture and offer visitors a glimpse into the region's distinct architecture and cuisine.

Château de Ribeauvillé

The castle is perched atop a hill, overlooking the town and the surrounding vineyards. From here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Alsace region. The castle has been beautifully restored over the years and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and halls filled with medieval architecture and furnishings. The castle also houses a museum that displays artifacts and exhibits about the castle's history and the culture of Alsace.

One of the most impressive features of Château de Ribeauvillé is its impressive defense system, which includes towers, drawbridges, and a moat. Visitors can walk along the castle's walls and see the many defenses that protected the castle and its inhabitants during times of war.

Today, Château de Ribeauvillé is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the region's rich heritage. Visitors can attend events such as medieval festivals and concerts that are held in the castle's courtyard throughout the year. The castle is also a popular wedding venue, offering a truly magical setting for couples to tie the knot.

In conclusion, Château de Ribeauvillé is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alsace. The castle's impressive architecture, rich history, and stunning views make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique outing with the family, Château de Ribeauvillé is sure to impress.

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