Interesting places to visit near Strasbourg, France

Location: Nestled in the heart of the Grand Est region in northeastern France, the Alsace Wine Route near Riquewihr offers a stunning blend of scenic vineyards and historic castles that epitomize the charm of this picturesque wine country.

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Travelers

Why It's a Great Detour: This detour invites travelers to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Alsace’s rolling vineyards and medieval architecture. The route combines breathtaking natural landscapes with centuries-old castles, making it a unique cultural and sensory experience. Visitors can savor world-class wines, explore quaint villages, and enjoy peaceful walks amid nature.

Key Activities: Wander through the colorful, cobblestone streets of Riquewihr’s historic center, visit iconic castles such as Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, indulge in wine tastings at local vineyards, hike or bike along scenic trails, and sample Alsatian culinary delights at charming bistros.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The area is welcoming for families, with open spaces for children to explore and interactive castle tours that bring history to life. While some vineyard visits may be more suitable for older children, the overall environment is family-friendly.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Many outdoor trails and village streets are dog-friendly, allowing travelers to bring their pets along. Some wineries and indoor attractions may have restrictions, so it’s advisable to check in advance, but the region generally accommodates dogs well.

Location: Nestled in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, the Charming Alsace Villages with Half-Timbered Houses and Wine Routes offer a captivating detour through picturesque towns such as Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg.

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why It's a Great Detour: This route combines the fairy-tale charm of medieval half-timbered architecture with the sensory delight of world-renowned Alsace wines. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old history, stroll through vibrant vineyards, and savor local culinary specialties, making it a rich cultural and sensory experience.

Key Activities: Explore quaint village streets and artisan shops, visit historic castles and churches, enjoy guided wine tastings and vineyard tours, hike or bike along scenic wine routes, and indulge in Alsatian cuisine at local bistros.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The villages’ safe, pedestrian-friendly streets and interactive museums make it enjoyable for families with young children, while outdoor activities like gentle hikes and picnics in vineyards appeal to all ages.

Dog-Friendly Notes: Many trails and outdoor dining spots welcome dogs, making it an excellent choice for travelers with pets, though some indoor venues may have restrictions.

Location: Nestled in the heart of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, the Black Forest offers a captivating detour filled with natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This scenic region is renowned for its enchanting waterfalls and well-maintained family-friendly trails that meander through dense forests and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can immerse themselves in tranquil nature while exploring charming villages steeped in history and savoring traditional Black Forest cuisine.

Key activities: Hike along gentle, accessible trails suitable for all ages, discover stunning waterfalls like Triberg and Todtnau, visit local museums highlighting the region’s rich heritage, and enjoy authentic Black Forest cake and regional delicacies in cozy cafés.

Kid-friendly focus: Trails are designed with families in mind, featuring safe paths, educational nature stops, and plenty of spots for picnics and play, making it ideal for young children.

Dog-friendly notes: Many trails welcome dogs on leashes, allowing pet owners to share the adventure, though some protected areas may have restrictions, so checking local guidelines is recommended.

Location: Colmar Old Town, Grand Est region, France

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the heart of the Alsace region, Colmar's Old Town offers an enchanting detour filled with medieval charm and scenic riverside walks. This picturesque destination captivates visitors with its well-preserved half-timbered houses, quaint canals, and vibrant flower displays, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking a blend of history, nature, and local culture.

Stroll along the Lauch River's peaceful banks, explore the cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, and immerse yourself in the town's rich heritage by visiting landmarks like the Unterlinden Museum and the Gothic Saint-Martin Collegiate Church. Families will appreciate the gentle walking paths and the opportunity to enjoy boat rides on the canals, while foodies can indulge in Alsatian specialties at charming local bistros.

The Old Town is very welcoming to children of all ages, offering engaging sights and relaxed outdoor spaces. Dog owners will find the riverside walks ideal for a leisurely outing with their pets, as many outdoor cafes and open areas are dog-friendly, though it's advisable to keep dogs on a leash in crowded spots.

Whether you're a history buff eager to explore medieval architecture, a nature lover drawn to tranquil river scenes, or a family looking for a delightful and accessible adventure, Colmar's Old Town provides a memorable and diverse experience that enriches any European road trip.