Eguisheim Travel Guide

Discover the charming medieval town of Eguisheim in Grand Est, France. Our comprehensive guide includes top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a picturesque medieval town in the Grand Est region of France, known for its charming narrow streets and colorful half-timbered buildings. The town is located in the heart of the Alsace wine route, which makes it an ideal destination for wine lovers.

Apart from wine, Eguisheim offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, making it a perfect destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and families with children. The town’s strategic location near the German and Swiss borders also makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Eguisheim, including the top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Eguisheim

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Eguisheim Castle

Located on the outskirts of the town, Eguisheim Castle is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 13th century. The castle offers stunning views of the vineyards and the town, and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

Saint-Léon IX Chapel

This beautiful chapel was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to Pope Léon IX, who was born in Eguisheim. The chapel features some impressive Romanesque frescoes and is a must-visit for history and art lovers.

Ecomusée d’Alsace

This open-air museum is located about 30 minutes from Eguisheim and showcases traditional Alsatian houses, farms, and crafts. Visitors can learn about the daily life of Alsatian peasants in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and try their hand at various traditional crafts.

Natural Attractions of Eguisheim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Three Castles of Eguisheim

The Three Castles of Eguisheim are a set of three ruined castles located on a hill overlooking the town. Visitors can hike up to the castles and enjoy stunning views of the vineyards and the town.

Eguisheim Vineyards

Eguisheim is located in the heart of the Alsace wine route, and visitors can explore the town’s vineyards by foot or by bike. Many wineries offer wine tastings and tours, and visitors can learn about the winemaking process and sample various wines.

Lac Vert

Located about 20 minutes from Eguisheim, Lac Vert is a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by forests. Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear water, rent a paddleboat or a kayak, or simply relax on the shore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eguisheim

Eguisheim offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy walks in the vineyards to challenging hikes in the Vosges mountains. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Route des Cinq Châteaux: A 10 km hike that takes you past five ruined castles, with stunning views of the vineyards and the Vosges mountains.

  • Route des Cigognes: A 15 km biking trail that takes you through the Alsatian countryside, past storks’ nests, and quaint villages.

  • La Promenade des Remparts: A leisurely walk around the town’s ramparts, with beautiful views of the town and the vineyards.

Best Things to Do in Eguisheim: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and wine tasting, Eguisheim offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best:

  • Balloon rides: Take a hot air balloon ride over the town and the vineyards for a unique perspective.

  • Segway tours: Explore the town and the vineyards on a Segway, with a local guide.

  • Christmas market: Eguisheim hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Alsace, with over 100 stalls selling local crafts and food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eguisheim

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Eguisheim:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the town’s historic center and vineyards, and visit the Saint-Léon IX Chapel and the Eguisheim Castle.

  • Day 3: Take a hiking or biking trip along the Route des Cinq Châteaux, and have a picnic in the vineyards.

  • Day 4: Visit the Ecomusée d’Alsace, and learn about Alsatian traditions and crafts.

  • Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride over the town and the vineyards.

  • Day 6: Visit Lac Vert, and spend the day swimming, kayaking, and relaxing.

  • Day 7: Explore the nearby town of Colmar, and visit the Unterlinden Museum and the Little Venice area.

Food and Drink Scene of Eguisheim

Eguisheim is known for its excellent wines and traditional Alsatian cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Choucroute: A hearty dish of sauerkraut, sausage, and potatoes.

  • Baeckeoffe: A traditional Alsatian casserole made with lamb, beef, and potatoes.

  • Tarte flambée: A thin-crust pizza topped with onions, bacon, and crème fraîche.

Local Beverages

  • Riesling: A dry white wine that pairs well with fish and seafood.

  • Gewürztraminer: A fragrant white wine that pairs well with spicy food and strong cheeses.

  • Kirsch: A brandy made from cherry juice, often served as a digestif.

Where to Stay in Eguisheim: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eguisheim offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best:

  • Hostellerie à la Ville de Lyon: A historic hotel located in the town center, offering comfortable rooms and an excellent restaurant.

  • Hotel Saint Hubert: A family-run hotel located in the heart of the vineyards, offering panoramic views and a relaxing atmosphere.

  • Gîte des Trois Ceps: A charming guesthouse located in a traditional Alsatian house, offering cozy rooms and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Eguisheim: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Eguisheim is known for its traditional crafts and local products, such as:

  • Pottery and ceramics: Visitors can buy handmade pottery and ceramics at the town’s many shops and boutiques.

  • Wine: Eguisheim’s vineyards produce some excellent wines, and visitors can buy bottles at wineries or local shops.

  • Gingerbread: A traditional Alsatian dessert, made with honey and spices.

Local Culture and Customs of Eguisheim

Eguisheim has a rich cultural heritage, steeped in tradition and history. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as:

  • Greetings: It is customary to greet people with a handshake, and to use formal titles and last names.

  • Cuisine: Alsatian cuisine is a central part of the local culture, and visitors should try to sample local dishes and products.

  • Holidays and festivals: Eguisheim hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year, such as the Wine Festival and the Christmas market.

Best Time to Visit Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are in bloom. The town is also especially beautiful during the Christmas season, when it is decked out in festive decorations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eguisheim

Do:

  • Try local culinary specialties, such as choucroute and tarte flambée.

  • Explore the town and surrounding vineyards on foot or by bike.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the steepness of some hiking trails.

  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of the town’s residential areas.

  • Leave without trying some of the local wines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Visitors should, however, take basic precautions, such as:

  • Keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas.

  • Following traffic rules and road signs when driving or biking.

  • Being aware of the weather conditions when hiking or engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Eguisheim

Eguisheim has a modern healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics located in nearby cities. Visitors should however, take some basic precautions to stay healthy, such as:

  • Staying hydrated, especially during hot weather.

  • Using sunscreen and protective gear when engaging in outdoor activities.

  • Being aware of local allergy triggers, such as pollen or dust.

Getting to Eguisheim: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eguisheim is located about 30 minutes from the city of Colmar, and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus.

Airports Near Eguisheim

  • EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg: Located about 50 km from Eguisheim, and serviced by various international airlines.

  • Strasbourg Airport: Located about 70 km from Eguisheim, and serviced by various domestic and European airlines.

Bus Stations Near Eguisheim

  • Colmar Bus Station: Located about 7 km from Eguisheim, and serviced by various regional and national bus companies.

  • Eguisheim Train Station: Located in the town center, and serviced by regional trains.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car in Colmar or at one of the nearby airports.

  • Bike rental: Visitors can rent a bike in Eguisheim or nearby towns, and explore the region on two wheels.

How to Get Around in Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a small town, and most of its attractions can be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also use local buses or taxis to travel to nearby villages or cities.

Where to Go Next from Eguisheim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eguisheim is a great base for exploring the wider Grand Est region, which offers a wealth of attractions and destinations. Here are some nearby places to consider:

  • Colmar: A charming city known for its canals, museums, and historic center.

  • Strasbourg: The capital of the Grand Est region, known for its Christmas market, cathedral, and European institutions.

  • Mulhouse: A former industrial hub that has reinvented itself as a cultural destination, with world-class museums and exhibitions.

Conclusion

Eguisheim is a hidden gem in the heart of France’s Grand Est region, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a wine lover, a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing vacation, Eguisheim is sure to impress. Plan your trip today, and discover the magic of this medieval town!

Place du Château Place du Château One of the circular residential streets One of the circular residential streets