Alsace

Alsace is such a charming region in France, known for its picturesque villages, stunning vineyards, and delicious cuisine. Let’s dive into a delightful 2-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty and culture of this enchanting area!

Day 1: Strasbourg and Surroundings

Morning: Explore Strasbourg

• Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a buttery croissant or a pain au chocolat paired with a café au lait.
• Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral: Head to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city, or simply admire the stunning Gothic architecture from the ground.
• La Petite France: Stroll through this charming district with its half-timbered houses and canals. It’s perfect for some lovely photos and a leisurely walk.

Lunch:

• Grab a bite at a traditional Alsatian restaurant. Try the famous tarte flambée (flammekueche) – it’s like a pizza but with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. Yum!

Afternoon: Museums and Parks

• Visit the Alsatian Museum: Dive into the local culture and history. The museum showcases traditional Alsatian life, crafts, and costumes.
• Relax at Parc de l'Orangerie: Take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park. You might even spot some storks, which are a symbol of Alsace!

Evening: Dinner and Night Stroll

• Dinner: Enjoy a hearty dinner at a winstub (a traditional Alsatian tavern). Don’t miss out on choucroute garnie, a delicious dish of sauerkraut and various meats.
• Night Stroll: After dinner, take a walk along the Ill River. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical atmosphere.

Day 2: Colmar and the Wine Route

Morning: Head to Colmar

• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a local bakery. A pain au raisin or a slice of kugelhopf would be delightful!
• Explore Colmar: Arrive in Colmar, often considered the most beautiful town in Alsace. Start at the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.

Lunch:

• Have lunch in the heart of Colmar. Try a local specialty like baeckeoffe, a hearty meat and potato dish, or a fresh salad with local cheeses.

Afternoon: Discover the Wine Route

• Wine Route: After lunch, embark on a scenic drive along the Alsace Wine Route. Stop at charming villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim, both known for their colorful houses and vineyards.
• Wine Tasting: Visit a local winery for a tasting session. Alsace is famous for its white wines, especially Riesling and Gewürztraminer. Cheers!

Evening: Return to Colmar

• Dinner: Back in Colmar, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try the coq au Riesling, a chicken dish cooked in the region’s famous wine.
• Evening Stroll: End your trip with a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated streets of Colmar. The ambiance is simply enchanting, especially around the canals.

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try some local pastries like bredele (Christmas cookies) or a slice of Alsatian cake!
• If you have time, consider visiting a local market for some artisanal products to take home.

There you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary in Alsace that balances culture, cuisine, and stunning scenery. Enjoy your trip! 🌍✨