Alsace Colmar, Medieval Villages & Castle Small Group Day Trip From Strasbourg

Nestled in the heart of Alsace, the charming towns of Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr beckon visitors with their well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant culture. This small group day trip from Strasbourg offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover the region’s scenic beauty and rich history. From the enchanting "Little Venice" district of Colmar to the imposing Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, each stop on the itinerary promises to captivate the senses. Prepare to be swept away by the timeless allure of Alsace.

Key Points

• A full-day small-group tour from Strasbourg exploring the Alsace region, including visits to the charming towns of Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr.
• Guided walking tours showcasing the medieval heritage and contemporary spirit of Colmar, including the iconic Saint Martin’s Church and Pfister House.
• Exploration of the picturesque village of Eguisheim, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, floral displays, and local Alsatian wine production.
• Visit to the 12th-century Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Alsatian countryside and a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
• Transportation via air-conditioned minivan with an English-speaking guide, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour from Strasbourg takes visitors through the scenic Alsace region, showcasing its charming towns, historic landmarks, and renowned vineyards.

The small-group experience, limited to eight participants, offers personalized attention as the group explores Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr – quaint communities known for their Medieval architecture and picturesque settings.

The itinerary also includes a visit to the 12th-century Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, perched atop the Vosges Mountains and offering panoramic views.

With transportation by air-conditioned minivan and an English-speaking guide, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the Alsatian countryside.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 9:00 AM from the Strasbourg Tourism Office, where guests embark on a guided walking exploration of the charming town of Colmar.

The highlights include:

• Admiring the stunning Saint Martin’s Church, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture.
• Visiting the iconic Pfister House, a beautifully preserved 16th-century half-timbered building.
• Strolling through the enchanting "Little Venice" district, with its colorful houses and canals.

Next, the group travels to the picturesque village of Eguisheim, known for its well-preserved medieval buildings and vibrant floral displays.

The final stop is the walled town of Riquewihr, where guests can meander through its meandering alleys and soak in the town’s timeless ambiance.

Discovering Colmar

Nestled along the Lauch River, Colmar is a picturesque Alsatian town that seamlessly blends its medieval heritage with a vibrant contemporary spirit.

The first stop on the tour is the guided walking exploration of Colmar’s charming Old Town. Highlights include the magnificent Saint Martin’s Church, a prime example of Alsatian Gothic architecture, and the iconic Pfister House, known for its ornately carved timber-framed façade.

Wandering through the enchanting "Little Venice" canal district, guests will admire the colorful half-timbered buildings lining the waterway.

This lively market town offers a delightful introduction to the cultural richness of the Alsace region.

Picturesque Eguisheim

Leaving the charming Colmar behind, the tour group now heads to the picturesque village of Eguisheim. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and blooming floral displays, Eguisheim captivates visitors with its charming ambiance.

• The village’s concentric circles of houses and winding lanes date back to the 11th century, when the Counts of Eguisheim ruled the region.

• Visitors can stroll through the historic center, admiring the half-timbered buildings, flower-adorned balconies, and the Château Saint-Léon, a 13th-century castle ruin.

• Eguisheim is also known for its Alsatian wine production, with several local wineries offering tastings and tours to explore the region’s celebrated vintages.

Exploring Riquewihr

Next, the tour group explores the charming town of Riquewihr, which proudly preserves its medieval heritage within impeccably maintained walls.

Wandering through the winding lanes, they admire the half-timbered houses adorned with colorful window boxes and flower-filled balconies.

At the town center, they pause to marvel at the Dolder, a striking 16th-century gatehouse.

The group then visits the historic Maison de la Dime, once a tax collector’s office, now a museum showcasing Alsatian culture.

With its quaint charm and well-preserved architecture, Riquewihr embodies the picturesque essence of the Alsace region.

Driving the Alsace Wine Route

After marveling at the medieval charm of Riquewihr, the group boards the minivan and sets off along the famed Alsace Wine Route. This 105-mile scenic drive showcases the region’s renowned vineyards and quaint wine villages.

The guide points out historic landmarks and shares insights into the centuries-old winemaking traditions:

• The route traces the foothills of the Vosges Mountains, offering panoramic views of rolling hills blanketed in rows of grapevines.

• Picturesque towns like Turkheim and Kaysersberg dot the landscape, inviting visitors to explore their cobbled streets and sample local vintages.

• The Alsace Wine Route is a cherished destination for oenophiles, highlighting the diversity of the region’s acclaimed Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, and Pinot Noirs.

Touring Haut Koenigsbourg Castle

As the group departs Riquewihr, they set their sights on the towering Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, a 12th-century fortress perched atop a commanding vantage point.

This majestic castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Alsatian countryside and the Vosges Mountains. During the guided tour, visitors explore the castle’s ornate rooms, learning about its turbulent history and strategic significance over the centuries.

The tour highlights the castle’s impressive architecture, including its fortified towers, drawbridge, and Renaissance-style courtyard.

With its well-preserved interiors and breathtaking scenery, Haut Koenigsbourg Castle provides a glimpse into the region’s medieval past and leaves a lasting impression on tour participants.

Logistics and Additional Information

The tour’s logistics and additional information provide the practical details needed to make the most of this immersive day trip.

Meeting at the Strasbourg Tourism Office, the air-conditioned minivan transports guests through the scenic Alsatian countryside. An English-speaking guide leads the walking tours in the charming villages, while admission to Haut Koenigsbourg Castle is included.

Certain considerations apply:

• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a minimum age of 18 is required for alcohol consumption.
• A minimum of 2 adults is needed, and children under 4 aren’t allowed.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as the tour may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions.
• Infant seats are available upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour on Short Notice?

Yes, this tour can be booked on short notice. The tour operator accepts bookings up to 24 hours in advance, subject to availability. Advance reservations are recommended to secure your spot on this popular day trip from Strasbourg.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour uses an air-conditioned minivan to transport guests throughout the day. The vehicle provides comfortable and efficient travel between the charming Alsatian towns and the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle nestled in the Vosges Mountains.

Are There Any Options for Vegetarian or Vegan Meals?

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, but does not specify any vegetarian or vegan meal options. Guests should inquire about dietary needs when booking to ensure their preferences can be accommodated.

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Interests?

The tour can be customized to the traveler’s interests. The guide is flexible and willing to adjust the itinerary or focus within the existing attractions to meet the specific needs and preferences of the group.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

Travelers should pack comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket or sweater, sun protection, and a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes and charming medieval towns. Bringing snacks and water is also recommended for the day-long excursion.

The Sum Up

This small group day trip from Strasbourg offers an enchanting glimpse into Alsace’s medieval charm. Wander through the quaint streets of Colmar, Eguisheim, and Riquewihr, admiring their half-timbered houses and vibrant culture. Explore the impressive Haut Koenigsbourg Castle and enjoy the scenic drive along the Alsace Wine Route. With an expert guide and comfortable transportation, this tour provides an unforgettable journey through the region’s historic beauty.