📷 Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A four-day road trip through Alsace, on the border of France and Germany, connecting Strasbourg and Colmar with the picturesque wine route. The journey begins in Strasbourg, with its Gothic cathedral and the UNESCO-listed Grande Île historic center, continues through Neustadt and the European Quarter, then descends into Colmar with its Petite Venise district and the Unterlinden museum. The final day leads through Alsatian wine villages — Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Kaysersberg. The route is designed for traveling by car through the city centers, vineyards, and villages of Alsace.
Want navigation through the entire route?
Open route in Google MapsThe first day is dedicated to the historic core of Strasbourg on the Grande Île island, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The tour begins at the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame, built from pink sandstone, continues through the most picturesque quarter of La Petite France with its half-timbered houses along the canals, and ends at Place Kléber, the city's main square. The entire day is on foot, through a compact and flat old town.
The ticket covers access to one of the three museums within the palace (Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Decorative Arts, or Archaeological Museum). It is recommended to purchase tickets on-site or online through the official Strasbourg website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket covers the permanent exhibition on Alsatian culture, folk art and tradition. It is recommended to check the opening hours in advance, as the museum sometimes organizes special themed events.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket provides access to all interactive exhibitions; the center is especially suitable for children and families. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance on the official website or on-site.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The second day reveals Strasbourg beyond its medieval core. Neustadt, the newer town from the German period, brings wide boulevards and monumental architecture, while the European Quarter with the European Parliament building showcases the city's contemporary role. In the center, visitors also explore the baroque Palais Rohan along the river and the Ponts Couverts with the Vauban Dam, from where there is a view of the towers and rooftops of La Petite France. The afternoon heads toward Colmar.
The third day takes you to Colmar, one of the best-preserved Alsatian towns. A stroll through the historic center and the Little Venice quarter reveals colorful half-timbered houses along the canals of the Lauch river, while the Maison des Têtes and the Ancienne Douane stand out in the center. The Unterlinden Museum, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece, rounds off the cultural part of the day.
Mala Venecija is an open residential quarter along the canal that is free to visit at any time of day. A walk along the Quai de la Poissonnerie is free of charge and requires no reservation.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket includes access to the entire museum, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece polyptych. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket covers the permanent exhibition dedicated to the sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, creator of the Statue of Liberty. It is recommended to check the opening hours before visiting, as the museum is closed on Mondays.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
A ticket is required to visit the church, known for the famous painting 'Madonna in the Rose Bower' by Martin Schongauer. The church is open during the day; it is recommended to check the opening hours before your visit.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The ticket is purchased at the entrance, and it is recommended to arrive before noon to avoid crowds on weekends. The museum is particularly interesting for children and displays toys from various eras.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
Prices and availability are on the partner's website.
The last day features the Alsatian wine route from Colmar, through rolling hills and vineyards to the villages of Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Kaysersberg. Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé are recognizable for their fortified gates and flower-lined streets, while Kaysersberg stands out for its stone bridge and fortress ruins above the river. Those with time can end the day with a visit to Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle, offering sweeping views over the Alsatian plain and vineyards.
Everything you need for Alsace in 4 Days — From the Cathedral to the Wine Villages in one place