White wines
Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Muscat - legendary aromatic wines recognized throughout the world
Wine region · France
Alsace
World-class white wines and fabulous half-timbered villages at the foot of the Vosges Mountains
Region
About the region
Alsace is a unique wine region in France, producing predominantly white wines. Thanks to the protection of the Vosges Mountains, a special microclimate has developed here - one of the driest in France, ideal for aromatic grape varieties.
The region is famous not only for its wines, but also for its fairy-tale half-timbered villages that look like illustrations from the Brothers Grimm books. This is the perfect combination of wine culture, medieval architecture and gastronomic traditions.
Half-timbered
Fairytale medieval villages with colorful half-timbered houses - Colmar, Riquewihr, Eguisheim
Wine Route
170 kilometers of wine route through picturesque villages and vineyards from Marlenheim to Thann
Gastronomy
Choucroute, tarte flambée, foie gras and Munster: a distinctive cuisine where French and German traditions meet
What to see
Main attractions
From Gothic cathedrals to fairytale villages, discover the best of Alsace
Click a marker or card: they are linked.
CitiesStrasbourg
Capital of Alsace with the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, Petite France and the European Parliament
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Petite France
- Christmas Market
- European Quarter
VillagesRiquewihr
The jewel of the wine road - a perfectly preserved medieval village with colorful half-timbered houses
- Half-timbered houses
- Wine cellars
- Rue du Général-de-Gaulle
- Dolder Tower
WineAlsace Wine Route
170 km route through 70 picturesque villages and endless vineyards on the slopes of the Vosges
- 170 km route
- 70 villages
- Tastings
- Panoramic views
CastlesHaut-Kœnigsbourg Castle
Majestic medieval castle on top of a mountain with panoramic views of the vineyards and valley
- Medieval fortress
- Panorama of Alsace
- Weapons Museum
- Restaurant
CitiesColmar
Fairytale city with Little Venice, Unterlinden Museum and the best Christmas markets
- Little Venice
- Unterlinden Museum
- Isenheim Altarpiece
- Christmas markets
VillagesEguisheim
One of the most beautiful villages in France with concentric streets around a medieval castle
- Circular streets
- Eguisheim Castle
- Saint Leon Fountain
- Wine cafes
WineGrand Cru Vineyards
51 premium vineyards producing the finest Rieslings, Gewürztraminers and Pinot Gris
- 51 Grand Cru
- Riesling
- Gewürztraminer
- Pinot Gris
CastlesRibeauvillé castles
Three medieval castles on a hilltop above the town of Ribeauville - Saint-Ulrich, Giersberg and Haute-Ribeaupierre
- 3 châteaux
- Walking route
- View of the vineyards
- History of the 12th century
VillagesKaysersberg
Birthplace of Albert Schweitzer with imperial castle and 16th-century bridge over the Weiss River
- Imperial Castle
- Fortified Bridge
- Schweitzer House
- Christmas Market
Towns and villages
Towns and villages of Alsace
From the European capital of Strasbourg to the vineyard villages, every place is steeped in history and charm
Town
Strasbourg
The capital of Alsace and Europe with its majestic Gothic cathedral, picturesque Petite France quarter and famous Christmas markets.
- Notre Dame Cathedral
- Petite France
- Palais Rohan
- Krutenau quarter
Town
Colmar
A fairytale town with Little Venice, medieval lanes and the famous Unterlinden Museum with its Isenheim Altarpiece.
70 km from Strasbourg
- Little Venice
- Unterlinden Museum
- House of Heads
- Covered Market
Town
Mulhouse
Industrial capital of Alsace with unique museums - Schlumpf cars, railways and Electropolis.
100 km from Strasbourg
- Car Museum
- City Museum
- Place de la Réunion
- Zoo
Village
Riquewihr
The crown jewel of the Alsace wine route, a perfectly preserved medieval village surrounded by vineyards on three sides.
65 km from Strasbourg
- Half-timbered houses from the 16th century
- Dolder Tower
- Wine cellars
- Rue du Général-de-Gaulle
Village
Eguisheim
A village with a unique concentric layout around a medieval castle, recognized as one of the most beautiful in France.
75 km from Strasbourg
- Circular streets
- Eguisheim Castle
- Saint Leon Fountain
- Wine tastings
Village
Obernai
Charming town on the wine road with a carousel, market square and views of vineyards and castles.
25 km from Strasbourg
- Market square
- Carousel
- Church of Saint-Pierre-et-Paul
- Wine Route
Traditions
Traditions and culture
Alsace preserves unique traditions at the intersection of French and German cultures, passing them on through festivals, holidays and crafts
Christmas markets
The famous Marchés de Noël are the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, turning the cities of Alsace into a fairy tale.
- Strasbourg - the capital of Christmas
- Markets of Colmar and Riquewihr
- Mulled wine and bredele
- November - December
Wine Festival
Annual wine festivals in Alsace villages with tastings, music and traditional processions of winemakers.
- Fête du Vin in Colmar
- New Wine Festival
- Processions of winemakers
- August - October
Half-timbered architecture
A unique heritage of medieval architecture - colored half-timbered houses with carved beams and bay windows.
- Equipment of the 16th–18th centuries
- Beam carvings
- Bay windows and oriels
- Protected by UNESCO
Easter Traditions
Spring fairs, chocolate Easter bunnies and decorated fountains - Alsace celebrates Easter in style.
- Easter markets
- Chocolate bunnies
- Decorated fountains
- March - April
Harvest
Autumn vendanges in Alsace vineyards: hand-harvesting, harvest celebrations and the first tastings of young wine.
- Hand harvested grapes
- Holidays in villages
- Young wine tasting
- September - October
Alsace Carnival
Colorful carnival processions with masks, music and traditional treats before Lent.
- Mulhouse Carnival
- Masks and costumes
- Beignets and Fasnachtkiechle
- February - March
Gastronomy
Alsace gastronomy
Discover the richness of Alsatian cuisine, from choucroute to legendary white wines and Christmas bredele
Producers
Producers and workshops
Visit the legendary Grand Cru wineries, cheese factories and artisan workshops of Alsace
Grand Cru Winery
Domaine Zind-Humbrecht
A legendary biodynamic estate, one of the best in Alsace. It produces benchmark wines from Grand Cru vineyards.
WhereTurckheimExcursionsBy appointmentPriceFrom 25€
Grand Cru Winery
Domaine Weinbach
An elegant family farm at the foot of the Schlossberg vineyard, producing exceptional Gewürztraminers and Rieslings.
WhereKaysersbergExcursionsMon–Sat 9:00–17:00PriceFrom 20€
Cheese factory
Fromagerie Haxaire
A traditional cheesemaker in the Kaysersberg Valley, producing famous Munster according to time-honoured recipes.
WhereLapoutroieExcursionsMon–Sat 9:00–18:00PriceFrom 10€
Winery
Domaine Trimbach
Historic house since 1626, producing the legendary Riesling Clos Sainte Hune - one of the world's greatest white wines.
WhereRibeauvilleExcursionsBy appointmentPriceFrom 30€
Confectionery
Maison Adam
The oldest patisserie in Strasbourg (since 1854), famous for its brioche, kugelhopf and Christmas bredele.
WhereStrasbourgExcursionsTue–Sun 9:00–18:00PriceFrom 8€
Pottery workshop
Poterie de Betschdorf
Traditional Alsatian pottery with its characteristic blue-gray glaze is a craft passed down from generation to generation.
WhereBetschdorfExcursionsMon–Sat 10:00–17:00PriceFrom 15€
Useful information
Prestigious Grand Cru wineries require bookings 2–4 weeks ahead Most producers sell their products on site Cheese dairies open year-round, with mornings the best time to visit Many wineries arrange international wine delivery
What to bring home
What to bring from Alsace
The best souvenirs and gifts that will preserve the memory of a trip to a fabulous region
Wine · From €25
Riesling Grand Cru
Alsatian Riesling from a Grand Cru vineyard: an elegant, world-class white wine in a tall flûte bottle
Tip: Look for Grand Cru wines, from Alsace’s finest terroirs
Wineries, vinotheques
Food · From €10
Munster
Famous Alsatian cheese with a characteristic aroma and delicate texture in traditional packaging
Tip: Buy directly from the producer for maximum freshness
Cheesemakers, markets
Crafts · From €20
Betschdorf pottery
Traditional Alsatian pottery with blue-gray handmade glaze - jugs, plates and vases
Tip: Authentic pieces bear the maker’s mark
Betschdorf workshops, souvenir shops
Food · From €12
Bredele
Traditional Christmas Cinnamon Anise Cookies in a festive tin
Tip: Keeps for up to 3 months, an ideal festive gift
Confectionery shops, Christmas markets
Wine · From €20
Gewürztraminer
Aromatic white wine with notes of lychee and rose in an elegant gift box
Tip: Vendanges Tardives makes an excellent gift
Domaine Weinbach, Trimbach, Zind-Humbrecht
Food · From €30
Foie gras
Delicious duck liver from Alsace in a glass jar with a gold lid
Tip: Vacuum-packed foie gras keeps for up to six months
Delicatessens and markets
Crafts · From €25
Linen textile
Alsatian linen with traditional embroidery - handmade tablecloths, napkins and towels
Tip: Look for red embroidery, the traditional Alsatian pattern
Craft shops, markets
Cosmetics · From €15
Wine cosmetics
Natural cosmetics with grape seed extract and resveratrol
Tip: Caudalie products from Strasbourg are particularly popular
Pharmacies, spa stores
Crafts · From €30
Kugelhopf mold
Traditional ribbed copper pan for baking the famous Alsatian cake
Tip: Copper moulds are best and are passed down through generations
Culinary shops, markets
Wine · From €15
Crémant d'Alsace
Alsatian sparkling wine: French Champagne in the Alsatian style, in an elegant bottle
Tip: The best value among French sparkling wines
Wineries, supermarkets
Food · From €10
Alsace honey
Natural honey from the vineyards and mountain meadows of the Vosges in a glass jar
Tip: Acacia honey from the vineyards is the most delicate
Local markets, apiaries
Cosmetics · From €8
Soap with grapes
Natural soap with grape seed extract and essential oils
Tip: Look for products by local Colmar soapmakers
Markets, craft shops
·
Buy directly from producers, at Christmas markets and in old town souvenir shops Many wineries arrange delivery. Strasbourg Airport has duty-free shops with local wines Look for AOC and Grand Cru labels, which guarantee origin and the highest product quality
Where to stay
Where to stay in Alsace
The best hotels in the region - from medieval castles to cozy wine domaines among vineyards
Luxury · Strasbourg ★★★★
Hôtel Les Haras
Design hotel in the former 18th century royal stables with pool, spa and restaurant
- 18th century stables
- Spa
- Pool
- Restaurant
From 220€4.8 · 456 reviews
Château · Rouffach ★★★★★
Château d'Isenbourg
Majestic 12th-century castle among vineyards with panoramic valley views and a Michelin-starred restaurant
- 12th century castle
- Vineyards
- Michelin Restaurant
- Pool with panoramic views
From 320€4.9 · 389 reviews
Boutique · Colmar ★★★★
Le Colombier
Elegant boutique hotel in the center of Little Venice overlooking canals and half-timbered houses
- Little Venice
- Canal view
- Terrace
- Colmar Center
From 180€4.7 · 534 reviews
Château · Strasbourg ★★★
Château de Pourtalès
Romantic 18th-century castle in a 25-hectare park on the outskirts of Strasbourg with historical interiors
- 18th century castle
- Park 25 hectares
- Historical interiors
- Breakfast in the garden
From 140€4.5 · 367 reviews
Wine · Kaysersberg ★★★★★
Le Chambard
Restaurant and hotel complex with two Michelin stars among the vineyards of Kaysersberg
- 2 Michelin stars
- Vineyards
- Spa
- Kaysersberg
From 350€4.9 · 278 reviews
Boutique · Strasbourg ★★★★
Hôtel Cour du Corbeau
Historic 16th-century hotel in the heart of Strasbourg with half-timbered façade and courtyard
- 16th century half-timbered building
- Courtyard
- Town centre
- Historical monument
From 200€4.8 · 623 reviews
Wine · Riquewihr ★★★
Domaine du Moulin
Cozy guest house among vineyards with its own winery and tasting cellar
- Own winery
- Vineyards
- Tasting cellar
- Terrace
From 120€4.6 ·312 reviews
Luxury · Strasbourg ★★★★
Hôtel & Spa Rohan
Modern spa hotel in the center of Strasbourg with panoramic bar and wellness center
- Spa
- Panoramic bar
- Strasbourg City Center
- Fitness
From 190€4.6 ·498 reviews
Boutique · Colmar ★★★★★
La Maison des Têtes
Famous hotel in a Renaissance building with a facade of 106 heads - a historical monument of Colmar
- Renaissance façade
- 106 heads
- Restaurant
- Colmar Center
From 260€4.7 ·345 reviews
·
Book two to three months ahead in season (May–October), or four to six months ahead for Christmas markets Strasbourg for culture, Colmar or Riquewihr for wine, châteaux for romance Average €150–250 per night; château hotels cost more (€250–400). Winter discounts up to 20%
· reviews
Route Examples
Route Examples
Ready-made routes for independent travel through fabulous Alsace
- Day 1
Strasbourg and its cathedral
Arrival in Strasbourg, walk through the Petite France quarter, visiting the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Rohan Palace.
- Day 2
Wine Road and Colmar
Travel along the wine road through Obernai and Riquewihr, tastings at Grand Cru wineries, evening walk around Colmar.
- Day 3
Castle and departure
Visit to Haut-Koenigsburg Castle with panoramic views of the valley, farewell lunch in Kaysersberg, return.
Don't want to plan it yourself?
Join our organized tour with an expert sommelier, comfortable transportation and exclusive access to Grand Cru wineries.
Alsace wine tourExperiences
Experiences and activities
Choose experiences that will make your trip to Alsace unforgettable
Winemaking
Grand Cru tasting
Visit the legendary Grand Cru vineyards of Alsace with tasting of Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Gris.
Duration4 hoursPricefrom 85€
Gastronomy
Choucroute cookery workshop
Cooking the king of Alsatian cuisine - choucroute with smoked meats under the guidance of a chef.
Duration3 hoursPricefrom 75€
Culture
Christmas Alsace
Visit Europe's best Christmas markets in Strasbourg, Colmar and Riquewihr with mulled wine and bredele.
Duration5 hoursPricefrom 60€
Nature
Hot air balloon flight
An unforgettable bird's eye view of vineyards, timber-framed villages and the Vosges at sunrise.
Duration3 hoursPricefrom 180€
Winemaking
The Wine Route by bicycle
A scenic cycling route along the Alsace wine road through villages and vineyards.
Duration5 hoursPricefrom 45€
Culture
Castles of Alsace
A tour of medieval castles: Haut-Koenigsbourg and the Ribeauvillé castles.
Duration6 hoursPricefrom 95€
Signature tour
Alsace wine tour
5 days · from €1,100 per day
Alsace wine tour
The Route des Vins, Grands Crus and two worlds on one plate
Tour programmeFAQ
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Alsace?
Alsace is beautiful all year round. Spring (April-May) - vineyards bloom, summer (June-August) - warm weather and wine festivals, autumn (September-October) - harvest and golden colors, winter (December) - the famous Christmas markets.
What wines are produced in Alsace?
Alsace specializes in white wines: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Muscat, Silvaner, Pinot Blanc. They also produce red wines from Pinot Noir and sparkling Crémant d'Alsace. Alsace wines are the only ones in France that are named after the grape variety.
What is Grand Cru in Alsace?
Alsace has 51 vineyards with Grand Cru status - the best terroirs in the region. Grand Cru wines are made from four noble varieties: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Muscat. Each Grand Cru has a unique character.
Is it possible to visit Christmas markets?
Yes! Alsace's Christmas markets (late November - late December) are some of the most beautiful in Europe. Strasbourg, Colmar, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr turn into a fairy tale. We organize special Christmas tours during this time.
How to get from Paris to Alsace?
High-speed TGV from Paris to Strasbourg - 1 hour 45 minutes. You can also drive (5 hours) or fly to Strasbourg Airport. We organize transfers from anywhere.
Are tastings included in the tour price?
Tastings, visits and additional services are agreed when preparing your personal proposal. Accommodation is not included.
Is the tour suitable for new wine lovers?
Absolutely. Our sommelier guides adapt explanations to suit any level of knowledge. The tour is interesting for both beginners and experienced collectors.
What makes Alsatian wines special?
Unique dry climate (protected by the Vosges Mountains), diverse soils (limestone, granite, volcanic rocks) and the tradition of naming wines by grape variety. Plus - an aromatic intensity that is not found anywhere else.
Can you buy wine at wineries?
Yes, almost every winery sells wines at producer prices. We help with selection and organize delivery.
Cancellation Policy?
More than 30 days before: a 100% refund, including the deposit; 15–30 days before: 50% of the amount actually paid; less than 15 days before: no refund. Non-refundable supplier expenses for the order may be deducted. If the organiser cancels, another date or a full refund of the amount paid is offered if the alternatives are unsuitable. Processing takes up to fourteen calendar days after the amount is confirmed. Force majeure terms and the full policy: /refund.
Art Wine Guide
Ready to discover Alsace?
Book your tour now and experience an unforgettable journey through the fairytale heart of Alsace
- Professional guiding500+ guests
- 24/7 supportAlways in touch during the tour
- Flexible cancellationMore than 30 days before: a 100% refund, including the deposit; 15–30 days before: 50% of the amount actually paid; less than 15 days before: no refund. Non-refundable supplier expenses for the order may be deducted. If the organiser cancels, another date or a full refund of the amount paid is offered if the alternatives are unsuitable. Processing takes up to fourteen calendar days after the amount is confirmed. Force majeure terms and the full policy: /refund.