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Region of France
Photo: Rolf Krahl (Rotkraut), CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Alsace (German: Elsass, Elsaß) is a region in the Grand Est region of France that has close historical links with Germany. The local culture is distinct, and the region offers historic cities and castles, and interesting countryside. Alsace has some of the most beautiful cathedrals and churches in Western Europe. The stunning Strasbourg Cathedral is a unique example of a mix of Roman and Gothic architecture, and has the peculiarity of having one tower only, and of being built with pink Vosges gres.
Lies along the Rhine in northeastern Grand Est with Strasbourg as its prefecture, and it is known for its European institutions, medieval towns, and wine routes.
With Colmar as its prefecture, is part of Alsace and is famous for its colourful half-timbered houses, vineyards, and proximity to the Vosges mountains.
By car
But the easiest way to get in is by road.
By train
Alsace has an extensive rail network due to its shared borders with Germany and Switzerland, with rail links to both of these countries passing through the region.
It is best to have a car so you can explore all the little villages, stop for wine tastings and see the ruins of castles. The area is well served by train.
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Strasbourg · International · SXB
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the capital of the Grand Est region, home of many European institutions, and a beautiful UNESCO-listed city centre and miles of cycle paths and canal walks to explore
small Alsatian city with many fine timber buildings and extensive pedestrianisation.
a circular fortified village near Colmar
a tiny village in the foothills of the Vosges, on the Alsatian wine trail
home to a medieval fortress and the Albert Schweitzer Museum
industrial city with an impressive array of museums, notably the Cité de l'Automobile and Cité du Train
fortified town built in 1697. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
pretty mediaeval town overlooked by the ruins of three castles, on the Alsatian wine trail
typically Alsatian town dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, surrounded by vineyards and home to rustic local cooking
a suburb of the Swiss city of Basel that is rich in cultural resources and fun activities
mining town famous for its annual mineral and fossil fair
a couple of imposing sandstone churches and a humanist library make this yet another interesting Alsatian town to visit
The Alsatian Vineyard Route (Route des Vins d'Alsace) is a mostly rural route in Alsace, France. The route stretches from Marlenheim in the north near Strasbourg, to Thann in the south and east to Mulhouse.
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