Fairytale France, Wine & History: 5 Charming Day Trips from Strasbourg

#1 GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR ALSACE DAY TRIPS FROM STRASBOURG (JANUARY 2024)

The Bas Rhin, of which Strasbourg is the capital, offers a great number of exciting attractions to visit, activities to partake in and of course is a fantastic departure point for many tours. The city of Strasbourg, seat of the European Parliament and Council of Europe, is already a treat just by itself with its incredible Gothic Cathedral and historic Petite France neighborhood dotted with medieval half timbered houses.

WE OPERATE THE FOLLOWING TOURS WITH OUR VEHICLES AND IN-HOUSE DRIVER/GUIDES

1. STRASBOURg GOURMET GUIDED WALKING TOUR

If you follow one of our guided walking tour of Strasbourg, our certified guides will surely take you to the most important landmarks of the city including the ones mentioned above. Another great option in Strasbourg is the food & wine related activities.

The Alsace region is known to be one of the best when it comes to gastronomy and during our Strasbourg gourmet walking tour foie gras, Alsace White Wines, ginger bread and many more local specialties will be there for you to taste.

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2. TOUR THE ALSACE WINE ROUTE & TASTE ALSACE GRANDS CRUS WHITE WINES

Once you have discovered the city of Strasbourg, it is time to head out and visit the most incredible sites that the Bas Rhin has to offer on one of our day tours from Strasbourg. The most popular destination is without a doubt the Alsace Wine Route known in French as the Route des Vins d’Alsace.

One of the oldest in France, this wine route stretches for more than 70 kms and is lined with numerous, family owned wineries. Both our half day wine tours and full day wine tours departing from Strasbourg are the perfect opportunity for you to discover these amazing Alsace wine makers and enjoy commented wine tastings.

Along the wine route, our day trips from Strasbourg also stop in authentic Alsace charming villages that will blow your mind away with their cobblestone streets.

Book our Alsace Private Grands Crus Wine Tour

3. VISIT HAUT-KOENIGSBOURG CASTLE WITH YOUR OWN GUIDE

Another top attraction in this area is the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle that is included in our full day Pearls of Alsace tour. Built in the 12th century it dominates the Alsace plains and is one of those ideal locations for a superb travel photo.

On our full day trip from Strasbourg, your guide will be conducting the visit. All explanations will be given in English and guide will be with you throughout the tour giving you the best possible experience.

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4. BLACK FOREST DAY TRIP FROM STRASBOURG

Follow our unique small Group tour from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden and the Black Forest. Begin the day with the visit of the Spa town of Baden Baden and enjoy a guided tour of this stunning town.

Then travel to the Black Forest and admire the landscape, traditional houses and pristine villages. Stop at Mummelsee lake where you can taste Black Forest cake (own expense). End with a drive through the German wine route on your way back to Strasbourg.

We also organise a full day private tour from Strasbourg to Freiburg im Breisgau. Known for its ancient university and its medieval minster (Cathedral), for its high standard of living and advanced environmental practices, the city is situated in the heart of a major wine-growing region and is the primary entry point to the scenic beauty of the Black Forest.

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5. CHRISTMAS MARKETS OF ALSACE

Alsace is the French region to head for when Christmas time is nearing. The Christmas market of Strasbourg dates back to 1570 making it the oldest in Europe and the very first in France.

The Alsace towns and villages also hold beautiful and authentic Christmas markets that are  a must-stop on a Alsace Christmas Markets day trip from Strasbourg. Our Christmas markets tours include a stop in Colmar that has been voted as one of the best markets in Europe every year.

Other stops include the Christmas markets that take place in the villages such as Obernai, Riquewihr or Sélestat that you will visit depending on the day of your tour. 

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6. EXPLORE THE MAGICAL CITY OF COLMAR

Just a short distance from Strasbourg lies the enchanting city of Colmar, known for its well-preserved old town and charming canals. Colmar is often referred to as the "Little Venice" of Alsace due to its picturesque waterways.

Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the colorful timber-framed houses, and visit the beautiful Unterlinden Museum, which houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Colmar is also famous for its Christmas markets, attracting visitors from all over the world during the festive season.

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7. DISCOVER THE CHARMING VILLAGE OF RIQUEWIHR

Located along the Alsace Wine Route, the village of Riquewihr is like a fairytale come to life. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, flower-filled streets, and vineyards create a truly magical ambiance.

Wander through the narrow alleys, visit the local wineries for wine tastings, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this charming village. Riquewihr is especially captivating during the Christmas season when it transforms into a winter wonderland with its festive decorations and traditional market stalls.

Book our day trip from Strasbourg to Riquewihr

8. VISIT OBERNAI AND MONT SAINT ODILE

Take a half-day trip from Strasbourg to explore the charming town of Obernai and the majestic Mont Saint Odile.

Located just a short distance from Strasbourg, Obernai is a picturesque Alsatian town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses and enjoy the charming atmosphere.

Visit the beautiful Market Square (Place du Marché) where you can find local produce, crafts, and delicious Alsatian specialties. Explore the Saint Pierre and Paul Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and don't miss the opportunity to sample some of the region's famous wines at one of the local wineries.

After your visit to Obernai, continue your journey to Mont Saint Odile, a sacred mountain located in the Vosges Mountains. This spiritual site has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the Mont Saint Odile Monastery, founded in the 7th century, and discover its rich history and religious significance. Take a peaceful walk along the nature trails surrounding the monastery and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this spiritual retreat.

Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the Alsatian countryside, a half-day trip to Obernai and Mont Saint Odile is sure to be a memorable experience.

Book our Obernai and Mont Saint Odile private tour from Strasbourg

9. WWII SIGHTS DAY TRIP FROM STRASBOURG

Embark on a day trip from Strasbourg to explore significant WWII sights and learn about the region's historical involvement during the war.

Start your day by visiting the Alsace-Moselle Memorial Museum in Schirmeck. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to WWII, the war itself, and its aftermath in the Alsace-Moselle region. Gain insight into the local resistance movements, the impact of Nazi occupation, and the liberation of the area. The museum's exhibits, including artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies, offer a poignant and educational experience.

Next, travel to the nearby Struthof Concentration Camp, also known as Natzweiler-Struthof. This former Nazi concentration camp was the only one located on French soil. Explore the camp's various areas, such as the barracks, crematorium, and gas chamber, while reflecting on the tragic events that took place here. Visit the memorial and pay homage to the victims who suffered and perished at this site.

Afterward, make your way to the Maginot Line, a defensive fortification system built by France to protect its borders. The Schoenenbourg Fort, located near Haguenau, is one of the most well-preserved and impressive fortresses of the Maginot Line.

Take a guided tour to explore the underground tunnels, artillery casemates, and observation posts. Learn about the fort's strategic importance during WWII and the experiences of the soldiers stationed there.

Conclude your WWII sights day trip by visiting the Memorial Site of the Alsace-Moselle Deportation in Strasbourg. This memorial pays tribute to the victims of Nazi deportations from the region and honors the memory of those who resisted and fought against the occupation.

Reflect on the stories of individuals who were deported and learn about the local resistance movements that played a crucial role during WWII.

As you visit these WWII sights, take the time to reflect on the historical significance and the impact of the war on the region. It is a solemn and important experience that provides a deeper understanding of the past and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and promoting tolerance.

Book our WWII sights of Alsace day trip from Strasbourg

*All photos from Ophorus Adobe Stock Photo account.