Europe, France

Top 10 Fairytale Towns in Alsace, France to Visit (with Map)

September 12, 2024

Want to Explore the Charming Towns in Alsace France?

When I think about my time in the Alsace region, I’m instantly reminded of its fairytale charm. All the small towns felt like they were right out of a Disney set! As a lover of Beauty and the Beast, visiting Riquewihr felt like stepping into Belle’s village! The half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and not to mention the fountain that inspired the one Belle reads from in the movie!

The entire Alsace region feels magical, and I could easily say it was one of the most picturesque and romantic areas I’ve ever been to.

But besides the fairytale aspect, Alsace is known for its unique blend of French and German cultures, delicious food (I’m still dreaming of tarte flambée), and of course, its iconic Christmas markets. During my road trip through the region, we based ourselves in Colmar and Strasbourg for a night each, and I visited several of the most beautiful towns in Alsace, including Colmar, Strasbourg, and Riquewihr—each more enchanting than the last. If you love history, charming architecture, and feeling like you’ve stepped into a storybook, Alsace is the place to be!

⏰ Short on time?

🗺️ Here are the top 5 towns you must visit in Alsace

Riquewihr – A fairy-tale village with medieval charm
Colmar – The crown jewel of Alsace with picturesque canals
Eguisheim – A storybook town with a unique circular layout
Obernai – Renaissance architecture and Alsace wine
Strasbourg – The heart of Alsace with a stunning cathedral and charming Petite France

🚶‍♂️ Top Tours to Explore Alsace

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Towns in Alsace You Must Visit

Ribeauvillé

This medieval town is known for its three ruined castles that tower above the village. A visit to Ribeauvillé will transport you back in time, with its quaint streets, half-timbered houses, and breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Colmar or Strasbourg.
What to see: The castle ruins, the scenic Grand’Rue, and the local vineyards.

Obernai

Obernai is a lively town located near Strasbourg, known for its Renaissance architecture and as a popular stop along the Alsace Wine Route. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy local food, wine, and history.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Strasbourg.
What to see: The Bell Tower, Hôtel de Ville, and the charming old streets.

Strasbourg

The largest town in Alsace, Strasbourg is not only a cultural hub but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll need at least a full day to explore its stunning medieval architecture, the famous Strasbourg Cathedral, and the picturesque Petite France neighbourhood. The city is famous for its Christmas markets and is home to the European Parliament.

Time needed: 1-2 days
How to get there: By train from Paris or other nearby towns, or by car.
What to see: Strasbourg Cathedral, La Petite France, Place Kléber, Palais Rohan, Barrage Vauban, and the charming streets of the old town.

Rosheim

Rosheim is one of the oldest villages in Alsace, known for its Romanesque churches and historical charm. It’s a great spot for history lovers and those looking for a quiet retreat.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Strasbourg.
What to see: The Romanesque House, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, and the historic streets.

Eguisheim

This picturesque village, often called the most beautiful village in Alsace, is surrounded by vineyards and has a unique circular layout. Walking through Eguisheim is like stepping back in time.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Colmar.
What to see: The colourful houses, Château Saint-Léon, and a stroll through the vineyards.

Colmar

Often considered the crown jewel of Alsace, Colmar looks like a storybook town come to life. Its colourful half-timbered houses, charming canals, and rich history make it a must-visit.

Time needed: 1 day
How to get there: By train or car from Strasbourg.
What to see: Little Venice, Unterlinden Museum, Maison des Têtes, and the beautiful streets of the old town.

Kaysersberg

This medieval town is a gem of the Alsace region, known for its stunning half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and the impressive Château de Kaysersberg ruins.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Colmar.
What to see: The castle ruins, the charming village centre, and the local wine shops.

Mittelbergheim

A hidden gem of the Alsace region, Mittelbergheim is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful countryside. The village is known for its vineyards and lovely architecture.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Obernai or Colmar.
What to see: The scenic vineyards, historic architecture, and local wine tastings.

Riquewihr

Known as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Riquewihr feels straight out of a Beauty and the Beast scene, which is why I fell in love with it instantly! This town is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and sits right in the heart of the Alsace Wine Route.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Colmar or Strasbourg.
What to see: The colourful buildings, Dolder Tower, the old fortifications, and Alsace wine tastings.

Wissembourg

Located near the border of Germany, Wissembourg is a peaceful town with a rich history and beautiful half-timbered houses. It’s the perfect spot to explore if you love nature and history.

Time needed: Half a day
How to get there: By car from Strasbourg.
What to see: The Saints Peter and Paul Church, the old city walls, and the nearby Vosges Regional Nature Park.

👉 If you are looking for more tips about driving in France Make sure to check out Driving in France as a Tourist and How to Rent a Car next.

Recommended Tours to See More Towns in Alsace

If you don’t have enough time to visit all these amazing towns in Alsace, a guided tour can help you explore multiple villages in just one day. Here are some tours I recommend.

The 4 Wonders of Alsace Day Tour from Colmar: This full-day tour will take you through four of the most beautiful villages in Alsace, including Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg, and Colmar. Enjoy local wine tastings and explore the historic streets of these medieval towns.

Haut-Rhin Wine Route Day Trip: This full-day tour takes you through the Haut-Rhin Wine Route, where you’ll visit several vineyards and sample the finest Alsace wines. It’s perfect for wine lovers who want to experience the region’s famous wine culture.

Half-Day Tour of Alsace Villages: If you’re short on time, this half-day tour is a great way to see some of the region’s most beautiful villages, including Riquewihr and Kaysersberg.

FAQ About Towns in Alsace

What is the main town in Alsace?

The main town in Alsace is Strasbourg, which is also the largest city in the region and home to many of Alsace’s most important historical and cultural sites.

What is the most picturesque village in Alsace?

Eguisheim is often considered the most picturesque village in Alsace, thanks to its beautiful circular layout, colourful houses, and charming streets.

What is the best base in Alsace?

Both Strasbourg and Colmar are excellent bases for exploring the Alsace region. Strasbourg is larger and has more amenities, while Colmar offers a more quaint, village-like experience.