There are a number of amazing day trips from Strasbourg that can be made to destinations in France, Germany, and Switzerland. Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region in France. An exciting city in its own right, bursting with historic half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, museums, culture, history, and a world-famous Christmas Market, just to name a few.
Why is a visit to Strasbourg unmissable?
A city influenced by French and German culture, Strasbourg through the century has belonged to both countries. It is easy to see the legacy left by both countries.
Strasbourg lies in an envious position near the Alsace Wine Route minutes away from the German border and an hour from the Switzerland border.
In this article, you will find 17 of the best day trips from Strasbourg. These Strasbourg day trips include historical sites, theme parks, Chateau, wine routes, waterfalls, and more.
Day trips from Strasbourg France can truly incorporate a diverse number of sites in France, Germany, and Switzerland.
Places to visit around Strasbourg
A visit to Strasbourg is a completely unmissable destination in the Alsace region of France. It is a beautiful place and there are so many places to visit around Strasbourg that will have you in love with the Alsace region in minutes. Below are some of our favourite places to visit around Strasbourg.
Day trips from Strasbourg to Germany – Staufen
Staufen is a small German village just a short trip south of Strasbourg near Freiburg im Breisgau. The small village is famous for 2 things, the Staufen Castle, which sits in ruin high on a hill overlooking the town and surrounding vineyards which they make world-famous schnapps out of.
Since 1844, the world-famous Schladerer distillery has produced fruit brandies and unique spirits. You can do a tour and taste at the Schladerer Brewery, A cake, and coffee and one of the finest coffee shops in Germany is a must. Cafe Decker makes some of the tastiest cakes anywhere.
How far is Staufen from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Staufen is 105 Kilometres
Colmar day trip from Strasbourg
Exploring Colmar in France’s Alsace region is like jumping into a fairytale. From the period coloured wooden houses, and cobblestone streets to blooming flowers and stalks on roofs, the sort of stuff that inspired stories like Beauty and the Beast.
Colmar is charming, enchanting, and absolutely captivating for all, it’s an assault on the senses both sight and taste.
The Gothic 13th-century, Martin’s Collegiate Church stands on central Place de la Cathédrale. The city is on the Alsace Wine Route, with local vineyards specialising in Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. A visit to the Little Venice area is a must.
Colmar is home to a large number of museums including the highly reputable fine arts museum. Colmar really comes into its own prior to Christmas, when its world-famous Christmas market opens. The neighbouring village of Ribeauville is also worth a look for its interesting sights on the wine route.
How far is Strasbourg to Colmar?
Strasbourg to Colmar is 73.6 Kilometers
Neuf-Brisach
Neuf-Brisach is a fortified town near Strasbourg in the Grand Est region of France, and you can easily explore it on a day trip.
The town was built in the 17th century by Vauban, the famous military architect of King Louis XIV, and its impressive fortified walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides admiring the fortifications, you can visit the Town Hall, the Church of Saint-Louis, and the Museum of Fortifications.
You can also take a walk through the charming streets and enjoy the views from the ramparts. To make the most of your day trip, consider renting a bike or joining a guided tour.
How far is Neuf-Brisach from Strasbourg
Neuf-Brisach is 87 kilometres from Strasbourg
Luneville in Alsace Lorraine
Luneville is one of those smallish, nondescript French towns until the Château de Luneville comes into view. The grand Château de Lunéville, was built in 1702 for Leopold, Duke of Lorraine. This magnificent building was the residence of the Duke of Lorraine until France annexed the duchy in 1766.
The château was designed to resemble Versailles for Leopold’s wife, Élisabeth Charlotte d’Orléans, who was the niece of Louis XIV. Leopold and his wife were the parents of Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor (through him, they were the grandparents of Marie Antoinette)
How far is Luniville from Strasbourg?
Luneville is 128 kilometres from Strasbourg.
Places to visit around Strasbourg – Baccarat
Baccarat Crystal is known worldwide for its beauty and quality. Louis XV authorised the creation of glasswork in 1764. The works became crystal glassworks in 1817 and were sold to the Compagnie des Cristalleries in 1881.
The company went from strength to strength, achieving worldwide fame under the name of Baccarat. The Musée Baccarat is a crystal glass museum located in the Baccarat factory. It is located at 2 rue des Cristalleries in Baccarat It showcases around 1,100 objects.
How far is Baccarat from Strasbourg?
Baccarat is 96.9 kilometres from Strasbourg
Learn More: We hope you are enjoying this article on day trips from Strasbourg France. We have two more Strasbourg France articles that will help you plan your trip to Strasbourg. These articles are full of tips and recommendations for your trip Things to do in Strasbourg with teenagers. and One day in Strasbourg
Strasbourg excusions to Frankfurt
One of the top attractions in Frankfurt is the Römerberg, a beautiful historic square in the heart of the old town. Here, you can admire the striking medieval architecture of the Römer, the town hall, and Frankfurt Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church.
Art lovers won’t want to miss the Städel Museum, which houses a vast collection of European art spanning several centuries, including works by famous artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.
For families, a visit to Frankfurt Zoo is a must-do. With over 4,500 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants, there’s plenty to see and learn about.
If you’re looking for stunning views of the city, head to the top of the Main Tower, which offers panoramic views from its observation deck, located 200 meters above the ground.
How far is Frankfurt from Strasbourg?
Frankfurt to Strasbourg is 219 kilometres away.
Écomusée d’Alsace – open air museum
Écomusée d’Alsace is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Alsatian life and architecture, with over 70 historic buildings spread across a 100-acre park. The open-air museum explores farmhouses, workshops, and gardens, and watches demonstrations of traditional crafts like weaving and pottery.
How far is the Écomusée d’Alsace from Strasbourg
The open-air museum is located in Ungersheim, about a 45-minute drive from Strasbourg.
Struthof Concentration camp
Located in the hills about an hour from Strasbourg was Struthof Concentration Camp. Struthof was the only camp ever established in France. Between 1941 and 1944, Alsace was administered by Germany as an integral part of the German Reich.
The camp operated from 21 May 1941 and was evacuated early in September 1944. Some 22,000 people died at the camp. Today you can visit the camp, walk the grounds and view the barracks and buildings. These buildings include a museum and a gas chamber.
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How far is Struthof from Strasbourg?
Struthof is 50 kilometres from Strasbourg.
Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg
One of the most scenic places to visit around Strasbourg in the nearby hills is Chateau Haut Keonigsbourg. Koenigsbourg château dates back to the Middle Ages and was built by the Hapsburg dynasty.
The current version was built by the German Kaiser in the late 18th century when the land belonged to Germany. Today the Château stands proud overlooking both France and Germany. Self-guided tours of the staterooms and armoury are available.
How far is Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Haut Koenigsbourg is 62 Kilometres
Some Extra Reading: Austrian Royalty and German kaisers called this place home. We can help you plan a visit to Chateau Haut Keonigsbourg,
Destination near Strasbourg – Mont Sainte Odile
Nestled high in the hills of the Vosges mountains in the Alsace region of France is Mont Sainte-Odile. The Monastery was originally built sometime in the early 7th century but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years. Visit the tomb of St Odile, the Chapel of Tears, and the Chapel of Angels.
Odile was blind but regained her eyesight after Saint Erhard of Regensburg baptised her, thus bringing her eyesight back. Her father tried to marry her off and Odile escaped into the mountains being chased by her father. A cliff face opened up to protect her and her father then agreed to build her Monastery in this position.
How far is Mont St Odile from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Mont St Odile is 44.3 kilometres.
Castles near Strasbourg – château du haut kœnigsbourg
Everyone knows fairy tale castles are Germany’s thing. You can’t go to an area of this beautiful country and not find one that just blows you away with its structure, never-ending turrets, pure opulence, and colourful history that at times seems unreal. Château du Haut Kœnigsbourg is absolutely no exception.
Today many of the 8 you see become surrounded by towns with urban crawl getting closer all the time to these historic buildings.
Not so with Haut Koenigsbourg castle it sits magnificently on top of a hill and looks like it belongs in the sky. Strasbourg to Château du Haut Kœnigsbourg is 123 kilometres.
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If you like these types of medieval buildings, you can also check out Château Saint Léon and Château du Hohlandsbourg.
Visit Eguisheim
If you’re looking to make a day trip from Strasbourg to visit Eguisheim, you’ll find it’s one of the most charming and picturesque Alsacian villages in this wonderful region. You can start your day by exploring the village’s cobbled streets, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and flower-filled balconies.
Next, head to the historic castle ruins, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. Afterwards, stop by one of the local wineries to sample some of the region’s famous wines.
Finally, end your day with a stroll through the beautiful vineyards and enjoy the stunning views of the countryside before returning to Strasbourg.
How far is Eguisheim from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Eguisheim is 79 kilometres. You can visit Eguisheim by public transport via the neighbouring village of Colmar
Best things to do near Strasbourg – Alsace Wine Route
The Alsace Wine Route is 170 km long, starting near Strasbourg in the north and ending just south of Colmar. As mentioned earlier this area is a wonderful blend of French and German cultures.
Colourful, half-timbered buildings line cobblestoned streets with wine merchants and paddocks of vines around every corner. The wine route takes in some legendary towns such as Ribeauville, Kayserberg, and Eguisheim.
Organise your trip to Alsace with free entry to a large choice of museums, castles, wildlife parks, and more. With the Pass Alsace, enjoy free entry to 56 sites in Alsace. Head to the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, the Monkeys Mountain, or the Batorama sightseeing boat tour in Strasbourg. Benefit from discounts and reductions.
Paris day trip from Strasbourg
Yes, Paris, even the capital of France is doable in one day from Strasbourg. You can catch the early morning TGV fast train from Strasbourg which will have you in the heart of Paris in 2 hours.
Spend the day strolling the Champs Elysees, climb the Eiffel Tower, stroll the left bank have wine and pastry before catching the late afternoon Paris to Strasbourg service back.
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Visit another country on a day trip from Strasbourg
France is an amazing country and there is so much more right on its doorstep. You can do some amazing day trips from Strasbourg that include visiting another country!
What to do near Strasbourg – Visit Basel Switzerland
Basel like Strasbourg is located on the Rhine River in northwest Switzerland, close to the country’s borders with France and Germany. Its medieval old town centres around Marktplatz, where you will find most tourists who visit Basel.
The Basel Switzerland Old Town is dominated by the 16th-century, red-sandstone Town Hall. It’s a 12th-century Gothic cathedral. Basel is the closest city to Strasbourg in Switzerland.
How far is Basel from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Basel is 136 Kilometres
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Europa Park for fun near Strasbourg
Day trips from Strasbourg France to Germany are easy. Europa Park is Europe’s 2nd most popular theme park in Europe behind Disneyland Paris. It lies in Rust Germany. Europa Park like many theme parks is broken up into different themed areas.
The big roller coasters are what most people come for. The Silver Star tops 240 feet high and reaches speeds of 90 miles an hour. The Wooden wood roller coaster is through back to the classic wooden coasters of the past. It reaches a height of 131 feet and speeds through at nearly 65 miles an hour. Europa Park has something for everyone.
How far is Europa Park from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Europe Park is 59 Kilometres
Tours from Strasbourg France
Heidelberg
The German town of Heidelberg is a town on the Neckar River in southwestern Germany, roughly halfway between Frankfurt and Strasbourg. Heidelberg is one of the scenic German towns near Strasbourg
The town square in the Altstadt Old Town and the red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle are today protected by UNESCO. The iconic bridge that spans the Necker River is an amazing place to take in the views of the town. Heidelberg Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers over the town square. You will find bars, restaurants, and shops leading off in all directions.
How far is Heidelberg from Strasbourg?
Heidelberg is 132 kilometres from Strasbourg.
Related: If castles and old towns are your things, then Heidelberg is just the place. Let us show you how to do one day in Heidelberg
Day trips from Strasbourg to the Black Forest
As Strasbourg sits right on the France-German border the Black Forest makes an ideal day trip from Strasbourg. We will explore 2 Black Forest destinations.
Baden Baden
A day trip from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden, Germany, would allow you to explore the famous spa town, its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.
Start your day by strolling along Lichtentaler Allee, a scenic promenade lined with parks and gardens. Then, head to the iconic Baden-Baden Casino, Germany’s oldest casino and one of Europe’s most elegant gaming halls.
After that, visit the Museum Frieder Burda, which houses a notable collection of contemporary art. For a relaxing experience, soak in the thermal waters of Caracalla Spa or Friedrichsbad, hence why they call Baden Baden a spa town.
End your day by taking a scenic drive along the Black Forest’s picturesque roads or visiting the nearby Mummelsee Lake.
How far is Baden Baden from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Baden Baden is 58 kilometres.
What to do near Strasbourg – explore Titisee
Titisee is one of the most popular destinations in the Black Forest. It sits on an idyllic lake offering boating and watersports in the summer months. In winter many day-trippers arrive to have coffee and enjoy the local iconic Black Forest Cake. Tourist shops and cuckoo clocks line the street as the tourists pour in from trains and cars.
How far is Titisee from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Titisee is 122 Kilometres
Triberg
Triberg im Schwarzwald is a town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, located in the Schwarzwald-Baar district in the Black Forest. Triberg is 83 kilometres from Strasbourg. By car, it will take somewhere between 1.15 to 1.30.
Triberg is a beautiful town high in the black forest with many traditional houses and souvenir shops selling cuckoo clocks. Triberg is famous for its waterfalls. The waterfall is the highest in Germany cascading down a series of falls over a length of 163 meters.
How far is Triberg from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Triberg is 83 Kilometres
Freiburg im Breisgau
Freiburg is one of the biggest cities close to Strasbourg. If you love the sun, Freiburg is one of the sunniest cities in all of Germany with a mild climate all year around. The city is famous for its city gates and old town Munster which was started in the 12th century.
Freiburg has a unique system of water channels called the Bachle that runs through the streets like a small river snaking its way around the city.
Freiburg has many green spaces for relaxing on warm sunny days. The Mundelhof on the edge of the city is an animal reserve that is popular with families. Martins Brau in the city centre brews some amazing craft beer and is a great place to grab some German cuisine. Freiburg is a top choice for cities to visit around Strasbourg
How far is Freiburg from Strasbourg?
Strasbourg to Freiburg is 89 kilometres
Discover More: Freiburg is an amazing city to visit just down the road from Strasbourg. We have a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Freiburg Germany
Frequently asked questions about Strasbourg
Q1. What is Strasbourg France?
A1. Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, near the German border. It is the capital of the Grand Est region and the Bas-Rhin department.
Q2. What are the top attractions in Strasbourg?
A2. Some of the top attractions in Strasbourg include the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Petite France neighbourhood, the Palais Rohan, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the European Parliament.
Q3. What is the best time to visit Strasbourg?
A3. The best time to visit Strasbourg is from April to June or from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you want to experience the city’s famous Christmas markets, you should visit in December.
Q4. How do I get to Strasbourg?
A4. Strasbourg is easily accessible by train from major cities in France and Germany. It also has its own international airport, the Strasbourg Airport (SXB), which serves a number of destinations in Europe.
Q5. What is the local cuisine in Strasbourg?
A5. The local cuisine in Strasbourg is a mix of French and German influences, with popular dishes including choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages and potatoes), flammkuchen (a thin, crispy pizza-like dish), and baeckeoffe (a meat and vegetable stew). Local wines, such as Gewürztraminer and Riesling, are also popular.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
If you decide a day in Strasbourg is not enough we have some excellent Strasbourg accommodation recommendations for you.
Accommodation in Strasbourg comes in all shapes and sizes to fit all groups from singles to families. There is a burgeoning luxury hotel scene in the city as well as hotels and apartments.
Luxury accommodation in Strasbourg
Luxury hotels in Strasbourg include Hotel Le Bouclier d’Or et Spa, Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery, and Hotel Les Haras
Hotels for couples in Strasbourg
The best hotels in Strasbourg for couples are Garrigae Villa La Florangerie, Pavillon REGENT PETITE FRANCE, and Hotel Suisse.
Hotels for families in Strasbourg France
The best family hotels include Garrigae Villa La Florangerie and Mercure Strasbourg Palais des Congress received great reviews from families travelling in Strasbourg.
Apartments in Strasbourg
An apartment is another popular option for staying in the Alsace capital. The Strasbourg apartment option is affordable and often gives you great choices for a number of rooms, locations, and parking choices for your stay in Strasbourg. Apartments often feature kitchens and kitchenettes, so you can cook. Check the Apartment map or our personal choice at the start of the accommodation section.
How to get to Strasbourg France by plane
Strasbourg Airport is a minor international airport located in Entzheim and 10 km west-southwest of Strasbourg. Air France and KLM fly from Paris to Strasbourg Airport multiple times a day. The flight takes 1 hour and departs Paris from both CGD and Orly airports.
Besides Paris and other domestic locations, you can fly directly to Strasbourg from Munich, Istanbul, Barcelona, Tel Aviv, and London just to name a few. You can book your flights to Strasbourg with Skyscanner.
How to get to Strasbourg by train
Strasbourg Gare Centrale Train Station receives a number of daily TGV high-speed trains. Strasbourg has direct high-speed train lines with Dijon, Lyon, Avignon, AixDisneyland Paris, Paris, CDG Airport, and Marseille.
Regional trains from the Alsace Region and connections locally with Freiburg in Germany and Basel in Switzerland are available. Day trips from Strasbourg by train are a good and easy option. You can book all your trains to Strasbourg with Omio Go Europe.
Can you drive to Strasbourg France?
You can drive to Strasbourg from all over Europe. The highways in France are of high quality and well-maintained. The French Highways have tolls on them, which can be quite expensive. You can drive to Strasbourg from Paris in around 6 hours, from Frankfurt in around 1 hour, and to Freiburg in around 45 minutes.
Day trips from Strasbourg, France are best done by car to maximise your time and variety of choices. You can pick up a hire car at any airport in Europe and in Strasbourg
Parking in Strasbourg tip:
Parking in Strasbourg can be expensive in the old town area. Your best option is the park and ride system. There are 12 places located on the outskirts of the city that you can park and catch a tram into the city centre. The cost is only 4.20 euro per car for up to 7 people including transport by tram into the city
Look here for more information on the park and ride ,locations in Strasbourg
How to get to Strasbourg by bus
Flix Bus and Eurolines service many destinations around Europe by bus. Buses arrive and depart Strasbourg from Place de l’Étoile 67076 Strasbourg France. Buses from Paris to Strasbourg take around 6.5 hours. The big bus companies offer comfortable seats, air conditioning, and onboard WiFi. You can book all your buses to Strasbourg with Busbud
We hope this post from us here at Wyld Family Travel inspires you to take some of the best Strasbourg day trips while visiting France. For more amazing ideas to help you plan your trip to the Alsace region click through to our France Destination Guide Page.