This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. More information.
Alsace is compact, easy to travel around, and packed with character. In just a few days, you can combine a vibrant city, a storybook town, vineyards, castles and quieter villages with a strong local feel. This itinerary is designed for 5 days in Alsace, but if you have less time, the region is still worth visiting – some people even come as a day trip by train from Paris. If you’re visiting in December, however, it’s worth allowing more time for the Christmas markets spread across several towns and villages.
I’ve grouped places that make sense geographically, so you’re not constantly packing up or rushing between villages.
Day 1: Strasbourg
I’d always recommend starting an Alsace itinerary in Strasbourg. It’s the largest city in the region, well connected by train, and a great introduction to Alsace’s mix of French and German influences. Strasbourg also has the best evening atmosphere in Alsace. There are plenty of restaurants, wine bars and winstubs to try local dishes or you can even join a food tour to make it even easier.
Even if you only have a short time in Alsace, I wouldn’t skip Strasbourg. It adds a modern and political dimension, with institutions like the European Parliament giving Alsace a role that goes well beyond tourism.
Day 2: Colmar
Colmar is smaller and more immediately charming than Strasbourg, with colourful half-timbered houses and canals around Little Venice. One day is enough to see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Colmar is very popular during the day, especially in peak season, but it’s still worth visiting. It can easily be done as a day trip from Strasbourg (even combined with villages if you’re short on time). But if you’re spending a few days in the region, a base in Colmar works well – or in one of the surrounding villages if you prefer something quieter.
Days 3 and 4: Alsace wine route villages near Colmar
These two days are the heart of an Alsace road trip. Rather than trying to see everything, I recommend choosing a few villages close to each other and enjoying them at a slower pace. It’s tempting to tick off as many villages as possible, but Alsace is at its best when you slow down and wander. Walking the streets, having a glass of wine, and enjoying the setting matter more than numbers.
Don’t want to drive or have no time to plan? Check out this tour.
Classic postcard villages
These villages are some of the most photographed in Alsace. They are busy, but genuinely beautiful.
- Riquewihr: one main street, very polished, best early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds. One of the most famous villages in Alsace.
- Eguisheim: circular layout, very charming, easy to explore in a short visit.
- Hunawihr: smaller and calmer, with vineyards right at the edge of the village.
- Zellenberg: often overlooked, with lovely views over the vines.
Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle
Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle sits high above the vineyards and feels very different from the villages. It’s impressive, both for the structure itself and for the views over the Alsace plain. I’d combine the castle with nearby villages rather than dedicating a full day to it.
Day 5: Quieter villages off the main tourist trail
If you have a fifth day, this is where Alsace feels more local.
If you enjoy walking, Ribeauvillé works well for a half day, combined with a hike up to the Three Châteaux for wide views over the vineyards. It’s not a quiet village, but many visitors focus on the town centre and skip the hike (we did, and regret it!).
If walking isn’t your thing, focus instead on quieter villages that are less visited than the classics around Colmar. I didn’t visit all of the villages below – some are based on family recommendations – but they’re all good options if you want a calmer, more local feel. Remember, you don’t need to see them all.
- Andlau: historic centre and the Abbatiale Sainte-Richarde – a very good surprise for us
- Mittelbergheim: calm, cute wine village with very few tour groups
- Rosheim: historic gates and Romanesque heritage, often overlooked
- Obernai (early or late): larger, lively village with a strong Alsatian identity, good food and beer
- Dambach-la-Ville: a fortified wine village with fewer tour groups
- Gertwiller: a small wine-focused stop, easy to combine with nearby villages
Where to stay for a 5-day Alsace itinerary
You don’t need to change accommodation every night in Alsace. This also avoids spending too much time checking in and out, which matters on a short trip.
- Strasbourg: ideal for the first night, especially if you want restaurants and nightlife
- Colmar or nearby villages: a practical base for Days 2 to 5
Staying outside the most touristy centres can make a big difference in terms of atmosphere and price, especially in high season.
Getting around Alsace
- Trains work well to get to Strasbourg and Colmar.
- A car is strongly recommended for the villages and the wine route, although there are buses from Colmar to places like Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé (bus line 16 – see more information here).
- If you don’t want to drive, you can also book guided tours from Strasbourg or Colmar that combine villages and wine tastings along the Alsace Wine Route – a good option if you want to enjoy the views and tastings without worrying about driving.
Distances are short, which makes this itinerary very manageable without long driving days.
Save this article for later!
Planning a trip to Alsace? Save this article on Pinterest to find it easily later!
