By Vicky · Published Aug. 29th, 2023 · Updated Apr. 3rd, 2024
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If you only have one day, you won’t be able to see everything on the Alsace Wine Route, but this itinerary will bring you to all the top spots.
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Alsace Wine Route One Day Itinerary Map
Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.
Tips
- The high season in Alsace is summer plus the Christmas period. Additionally, long weekends such as Easter tend to get busy. During these times, book accommodation in advance.
- You can explore Alsace on the train in one day, but some buses are not that frequent, so plan your schedule in advance.
Alsace Wine Route Itinerary
If you’re pushed for time and you only have one day to explore the Alsace Wine Route, a suggested itinerary is below. This route itinerary is between Strasbourg and Colmar, but could easily be reversed if you want to start in Colmar. To maximize your time, why not go on a guided tour of Alsace from Strasbourg*, or a Day Tour of Alsace from Colmar*. This is the most efficient way to make as much of your day as possible.
Alsace Wine Route One Day Itinerary
Click on the links to find walking tours of the cities and villages mentioned. Bear in mind, to fit everything into one day, you won’t be able to visit all the sights on the tours! This one-day itinerary includes Strasbourg, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Eguisheim and Colmar.
Morning:
- Start in Strasbourg: Begin your day early in the morning in the city of Strasbourg, which is the capital of the Alsace region. Enjoy a hearty Alsatian breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.
Strasbourg to Ribeauvillé: Head south from Strasbourg to the charming village of Ribeauvillé, around a 1-hour drive or train ride.
- Visit Ribeauvillé: Explore Ribeauvillé, a charming village known for its historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. If you have time, hike up to the Saint-Ulrich Castle ruins for great views.
Lunch in Ribeauvillé: Enjoy a leisurely Alsatian lunch at one of the village’s traditional restaurants. Try local specialties such as tarte flambée or a traditional Alsatian quiche.
Afternoon:
Ribeauvillé to Riquewihr: After lunch, drive to the nearby village of Riquewihr, which is around a 10-minute drive from Ribeauvillé. Alternatively, there’s a bus between the two villages that takes about 15 minutes, but isn’t very frequent so check times in advance.
- Visit Riquewihr: The picturesque village of Riquewihr is often considered one of the most beautiful on the route. Wander through the narrow streets, admiring the well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit local shops, boutiques, and art galleries. You can also visit the Dolder Tower for panoramic views of the village and surrounding vineyards.
Wine Tasting: Stop at a local winery in Riquewihr for a wine-tasting session. You’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the region’s renowned wines, such as Riesling or Gewürztraminer.
Late Afternoon:
Riquewihr to Eguisheim: Continue your journey to Eguisheim, which is about a 20-minute drive from Riquewihr. If you’re taking public transport, you have to take a bus from Riquewihr to Colmar (20 minutes), and then from Colmar to Eguisheim (about 30 minutes).
- Explore Eguisheim: Eguisheim is known for its concentric circle layout and colorful houses. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets and squares, and perhaps stop for a coffee or ice cream in one of the charming cafés.
Evening:
Eguisheim to Colmar: Drive to the nearby town of Colmar, which is around a 15-minute drive from Eguisheim (or 15-30 minutes on the bus, depending on where you want to go in Colmar).
- Explore Colmar: Colmar is a larger town with a rich history and a variety of dining options.
Dinner: Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant in Colmar. Choose from a range of Alsatian dishes and savor the flavors of the region.
Night:
Return to Strasbourg: Head back to Strasbourg, which is approximately a 30 to 40-minute drive from Colmar, or around 30 minutes on the train.
To discover all the best towns on the Alsace Wine Route, read our Best Village in Alsace guide. Or to find the best accommodation along the Wine Route, check out our guide to the Best Places to Stay in Alsace.
Guidebooks & Maps for Exploring Alsace
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