Alsace is probably the most magical region in France. Dazzling small towns with colorful storybook houses that inspired Walt Disney, surrounded by vineyards and hilltop castles, make this region a must-see.
We visited 5 towns near Colmar, the cradle of southern Alsace, and I think you should definitely head to these places if you are in the area.
Ribeauvillé
Ribeauvillé is not that overcrowded during the main tourist season, and it's one of our favorite southern Alsatian towns in the region for several reasons.
Location
The small city of Ribeauvillé is the furthest away from Colmar, but you can get there within 25 minutes by car if you follow the Alsace Wine Route.
Why We Loved Ribeauvillé
We loved the way Ribeauvillé is set up. Its accessibility makes it a prime choice for families with strollers, senior visitors with walkers, and wheelchair users.
The central road goes straight through the town, and it's partially paved.
Tips
I recommend a relaxed stroll through the town any time of the day.
Stop at some boutiques for gourmet gifts and souvenirs, and treat yourself to Alsatian food specialties at Chez Cloclo.
Kaysersberg-Vignoble
Kaysersberg-Vignoble, which means, translated, the emperor's mountain and vineyard, is straight out of a Disney movie.
You won't get enough of Kaysersberg, and at every turn you will encounter something unique that will pique your interest.
Location
Kaysersberg is about 15 minutes road distance from Colmar, right next to the much more popular Riquewihr. The no-car town has a convenient large parking lot at the entrance of the town.
Why We Loved Kaysersberg-Vignoble
The regional building style known as Maison à colombages locally is the highlight of this town. Here, you will be able to immerse yourself in your surroundings.
Tips
Most boutiques close early, even during peak season, and therefore I recommend visiting before 5-6 pm.
Organize a relaxed evening in one of the fantastic restaurants near the town's bridge. The food and wine in Kaysersberg is renowned and some of the absolute best that we had in the region.
Riquewihr
Riquewihr is the quintessential town that represents Alsace in so many tourism posters and television ads.
It is said, that Riquewihr inspired Walt Disney's The Beauty and the Beast. The colorful half-timbered buildings surely underline the timeless beauty of this place.
Location
Riquewihr is situated a mere 5 minutes northeast of Kaysersberg-Vignoble, and 20 minutes from Colmar. The drive itself is a highlight, especially in the morning hours.
Why We Loved Riquewihr
Riquewihr is super touristy, and bus tours fill up the small town by 9:30 am during peak season, but the town of 1000 souls has its charms.
We enjoyed exploring the small alleys away from the main road. The Dolder, the city's emblematic monument, with the colorful buildings, makes for a picture-perfect sight.
Tips
You will practically have the town to yourself in the shoulder season, which is April to June. Autumn comes with wine tourism, which is another delightful period to visit.
Get a private guide to learn about the history of this fascinating walled town and follow our Riquewihr thing to do guide.
Hunawihr
My wife loved Hunawihr.
The lone church on a hill, surrounded by some of the most prestigious vineyards in the world, and the fact that Hunawihr is practically still undiscovered by tourist crowds make it a prime destination for all those who seek peace.
Location
Hunawihr is sandwiched between Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr. The cycle trails in this area cross the rolling vineyard hills, which is a pretty sight! Colmar is just 25 minutes away by car.
Why We Loved Hunawihr
Stepping into Hunawihr was a welcoming change from the hustle and bustle of Riquewihr and Colmar. The village has been around since the Dark Ages, and the legend goes that a ruler's wife tended to the deprived residents of the village and that the water from the well had healing effects.
All those fantastic stories that are so very approachable make this calm village, with its aunties selling homemade things in the neighborhood streets, a true gem.
Tips
Go to the famed well, which is located near the chapel on the hill, and walk up to the age-old church to catch a glimpse of the Simultaneum church, where Catholics and Evangelists share the holy space.
From here you will get an incredible panoramic view of the most valuable vineyards in France.
Eguisheim
Eguisheim is special primarily because of the circular building layout and narrow passageway. It comes with a core, and the historic church stands at the center.
The most iconic Alsace picture spot (the one below) is taken at the start of the circular walk in Eguisheim.
Location
Eguisheim is conveniently situated a 12-minute drive south of Colmar. It's the closest town to Colmar.
Why We Loved Eguisheim
We couldn't get enough of Eguisheim. Its quaint alleys give you plenty of photoshoot opportunities, and your artistic spirit will be ignited the moment you step foot there.
Along the circular walk, we came across small boutiques selling local, high-quality food specialties.
Tips
Watch out for the storks on the rooftops in the summer months. The locals and birds have a strong bond, and the birds come back to breed every year.
I recommend a relaxed lunch in the town center near the fountain. The ambiance here is just right!
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