Alsace – 2 Day Tour From Paris
Private Tours
Free Refunds & Rescheduling
Customizable Itineraries
Explore Alsace with a private guide
Our Alsace tour has been designed for you to see the region’s best cultural gems and hidden treasures in just two days while departing from Paris and concluding with the return journey.
We get underway with a swift train ride to Strasbourg, Alsace’s cultural heart, where you’ll explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the awe-inspiring Strasbourg Cathedral and the quaint Petite France district.
Savor local delicacies and experience a private wine tasting at Alsace’s renowned vineyards. On the second day, discover the storybook villages of Eguisheim and Colmar, each boasting enchanting streets and vibrant historical sites.
Your tour concludes with a visit to Riquewihr, surrounded by vineyards and rich in medieval architecture, before returning to Paris by high-speed train.
Highlights of Our 2 Days in Alsace Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Strasbourg
Begin your exploration with a swift and scenic high-speed train ride from Paris to Strasbourg, the cultural and historical epicenter of the Alsace region in northeastern France.
In just under two hours, you’ll transition from the bustling metropolis of Paris to the charm and tranquility of Strasbourg. This city, known for its vibrant history and architectural beauty, serves as a gateway to the renowned Alsace region, offering visitors a profound sense of its past and present.
Exploring Strasbourg's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city’s esteemed Historic Centre of Strasbourg, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988.
This prestigious designation celebrates the Grande Île, the city’s historical core, which is beautifully encircled by the Ill River. Here, you’ll find a rich tapestry of architectural gems that narrate Strasbourg’s history through their walls.
Strasbourg Cathedral: A Gothic Masterpiece
Explore the Strasbourg Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Gothic architecture and one of the tallest cathedrals in Europe.
This majestic structure, with its stunning facade, richly detailed portals, and impressive spire that pierces the sky at 142 meters, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of medieval architecture.
Stepping inside with your guide, you’ll find an array of artistic treasures, including ancient stained glass windows that cast colorful lights into the nave. The cathedral is also home to the famous astronomical clock, a marvel of Renaissance engineering that attracts visitors with its complex mechanisms and animated figures that come to life at noon.
Petite France District: Quintessential Alsace Charm
Step into the storybook world of Petite France, Strasbourg’s most charming district.
This enchanting quarter is characterized by its well-preserved houses, which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries. As you wander through narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the colorful facades and the quaint atmosphere.
The district is crisscrossed by several canals, and the numerous footbridges offer stunning views of the waterways that were once vital for the city’s millers, tanners, and fishermen.
Petite France is a delight for photographers and a peaceful place to enjoy a moment of tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Local Cuisine: Savor the Flavors of Alsace
Indulge in a delightful lunch that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Alsace.
Experience the regional favorite, choucroute, a hearty dish made of sauerkraut cooked with a variety of meats, including sausages, pork, and sometimes fish, which offers a warm, comforting taste of local tradition.
Alternatively, sample the tarte flambée, also known as Flammkuchen, a thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, thinly sliced onions, and lardons. This dish, often baked in a wood-fired oven until the edges are crispy and golden, epitomizes Alsatian cuisine with its simple yet delicious flavors.
Wine Tasting in Alsace: Discovering Local Vineyards
We will now take some time exploring the vineyards of Alsace, a region renowned for its exceptional white wines, and where we will introduce you to local winemakers who will introduce you to the intricate process of viticulture and winemaking that has been refined over centuries.
Tour the lush vineyards and learn about the unique climatic conditions and soil types that make Alsace ideal for growing grapes like Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Enjoy a guided tasting session where you’ll sample a variety of local wines, appreciating their crisp, aromatic profiles that range from dry to sweet. You’ll also gain insights into the traditions and techniques that go into each bottle.
Michelin Dining: An Evening of Gastronomic Excellence
Conclude your day by dining at one of Strasbourg’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Crocodile or 1741, each known for their outstanding culinary offerings.
At Crocodile, you might find yourself surrounded by sophisticated décor, highlighted by the iconic stuffed Crocodile, a nod to the restaurant’s heritage and commitment to delivering an unforgettable dining experience.
Or, at 1741, situated near the picturesque canal, enjoy a meal that combines the elegance of fine dining with Strasbourg’s rich historical backdrop.
These restaurants are celebrated for their innovative approaches to French cuisine. They feature dishes that are as visually impressive as they are flavorful, providing a fitting finale to a day of cultural and culinary exploration.
Day 2 Historic Alsace villages
When you wake in the morning in Alsace, your first stop is Eguisheim, which is often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Eguisheim: A Journey Through Time
As you wander through this picturesque village, you’ll be enchanted by the vibrant half-timbered houses that line its narrow, winding streets. Each building boasts a palette of bright colors and intricate details, creating a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere.
Eguisheim’s circular layout, designed for defense in the Middle Ages, adds to its unique character and offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural strategies of the past.
Colmar: A Fairytale Town
Discover Colmar, a town that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairytale, with its impeccably preserved medieval and early Renaissance architecture.
Stroll through the Old Town, where historic buildings are adorned with flowering balconies and ornate woodwork. Don’t miss the Little Venice area, where the picturesque canals are flanked by tightly packed houses that reflect in the calm waters, creating a serene and almost magical atmosphere.
Exploring Colmar is like walking through a living museum, each corner and canal offering a new delight and a window into the region’s storied past.
Riquewihr: Medieval Splendor and Local Crafts
Conclude your tour in Riquewihr, a gem of a village that remains encircled by its original medieval walls.
Renowned for its remarkable preservation, Riquewihr offers a vibrant snapshot of Renaissance architecture, with buildings that have stood the test of time and continue to fascinate visitors with their historical details and vibrant facades.
Wander the cobblestone streets, browse shops offering local Alsatian crafts, and enjoy the authentic charm that Riquewihr exudes. The village’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage while showcasing local crafts makes it an essential stop in Alsace.
Return to Paris
After a journey filled with discovery and enchantment, your tour concludes with a chauffeured ride back to the station for your return on a high-speed train to Paris.
Contact us for your Alsace Tour
From the historic streets of Strasbourg to the charming vineyards and timeless beauty of Eguisheim and Colmar, each moment of our two day Alsace tour was designed to offer a deep dive into the regions heritage and charm.
If this tour has inspired you, we invite you to contact us to craft your own bespoke journey through Alsace or any other regions that pique your curiosity. Let us tailor a tour that perfectly matches your interests and desires, ensuring your next adventure is as memorable and personal as possible.
Reach out today to start planning your customized exploration!
