Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg

A full-day exploration of the medieval villages along the Alsace wine route offers an enriching experience for those interested in history, architecture, and regional wines. Priced at $145.13 per person, this 10-hour 30-minute tour from Strasbourg features visits to five picturesque villages—Bergheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim—each celebrated for their charm and beauty.

The tour includes wine tasting at a local winery, a lunch break in Riquewihr, and scenic drives in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi onboard. It’s designed for visitors who want a relaxed yet comprehensive way to see multiple towns in one day, with a maximum group size of 17 travelers. A real highlight is the expert guidance and commentary, which enriches each stop, although some reviews note the absence of a live guide providing detailed historic info during the tours.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Strasbourg covering five iconic Alsace villages
• Price of $145.13 per person, with 10 hours 30 minutes duration
• Includes wine tasting at a local winery and lunch in Riquewihr
• Comfortable transport with WiFi and parking fees covered
• Visits to Bergheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim
• Highly rated with a 5.0/5 score based on 44 reviews

Starting Point at Strasbourg Bus Station

The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am from the Bus station of Strasbourg, 1 Parc de l’Étoile. This central location is accessible near public transportation, making it easy to reach. The coach is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, ensuring comfort and connectivity during the day.

The group remains small, with a maximum of 17 travelers, fostering a more personal experience. The meeting point is clearly identified, though some reviews suggest verifying the exact location for smooth boarding.

Visiting Bergheim, a Village on the Wine Route

The journey begins with a drive through the village of Bergheim, passing in front of its medieval ramparts. Known for its well-preserved walls and hidden wonders, Bergheim provides the first glimpse into Alsace’s medieval architecture. Its position on the wine route means that scenery is complemented by vineyards, setting a perfect tone for the day.

This village’s charm lies in its authentic walls and scenic streets, which travelers can freely explore during the stop. The visit lasts a brief but meaningful one hour, giving enough time to photograph the ramparts and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Free Visit of Ribeauvillé’s Historic Center

Next, the tour stops in Ribeauvillé, a former stronghold of the Lords of Ribeaupierre. This charming town features a free exploration period of one hour at Coeur de Ribeauville. Visitors can stroll through cobbled streets, admire timber-framed houses, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Guided commentary enhances understanding of Ribeauvillé’s history, although there’s no structured guided tour during this free visit. The town’s medieval architecture and scenic setting make it a favorite among visitors, and being able to explore at your own pace is highly appreciated.

Lunch Break in Riquewihr, the Heart of the Vineyard

The tour dedicates one hour 30 minutes to lunch in Riquewihr, one of the most famous villages in Alsace. Known for its picturesque streets and vineyard backdrop, Riquewihr is perfect for enjoying regional cuisine and browsing local shops.

Since the visit is free, travelers can choose from various restaurants or cafés, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this historic village. Its privileged location in the middle of vineyards makes it ideal for a relaxed meal amidst stunning scenery.

Exploring Kaysersberg and Its Old Town

Following lunch, the tour includes a free tour of Kaysersberg, famous for being voted a “Favorite Village of the French” in 2017. The old town offers narrow streets, medieval houses, and a castle ruin overlooking the village, which can be explored during the one-hour visit.

The Chateau de Kaysersberg adds a scenic element to the visit, and the village’s meticulous preservation offers a genuine sense of history. The guided commentary during the drive enhances appreciation of this picturesque spot.

Crossing the Twisted Bell Tower and Ramparts in Turckheim

The next stops include passing through villages with notable features such as a twisted bell tower and ramparts of Turckheim. These highlights showcase Alsace’s unique architectural styles and fortified structures, giving insight into the region’s historical defenses.

While these are primarily scenic drives with brief passages, they deepen the overall experience and provide excellent photo opportunities of the countryside and medieval features.

Discovering Eguisheim’s Old Town

The final village, Eguisheim, is celebrated for its circular layout and charming architecture. Visitors enjoy a one-hour free tour of its old town, which features narrow, winding streets lined with colorful houses and flower-filled courtyards.

Eguisheim’s voted “Favorite Village of the French” in 2013 emphasizes its appeal as a fairy-tale setting. Its well-preserved buildings and scenic views make it a favorite for leisurely exploration.

Wine Tasting at a Local Winery

A key feature of this tour is a wine tasting session at a local Alsatian winery. Guests sample traditional regional wines, with non-alcoholic options available as well. This authentic tasting experience offers insight into Alsace’s renowned wine culture.

The tasting is a highlight, praised for the quality of wines and the friendly host. It offers an opportunity to learn about regional varietals and enjoy a relaxed moment amidst the day’s sightseeing.

Scenic Drive in a Convertible Bus with Umbrellas and Water

Traveling in a convertible-style bus provides a unique viewing experience, especially when the weather is favorable. The vehicle’s open top allows for panoramic views of the vineyards and villages, enhancing the scenic aspect.

During rainy weather, guides generously supply umbrellas and water bottles, ensuring comfort and hydration throughout the long day. The scenic drives are a big positive, according to reviews, with many noting the friendly driver and informative commentary.

Group Size, Accessibility, and Practical Tips

The tour maintains a small group size of up to 17 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience. It is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, as the stops involve walking through historic villages, but no extensive hiking is necessary.

Children under 4 years old are not allowed, and service animals are permitted. The meeting point is close to public transportation, and the tour ends back at Strasbourg after a full day of exploration.

Limitations and Honest Considerations

Some reviews point out that during the free visits, there is no live guide providing detailed historic commentary—only audio guides or self-exploration. Plus, the long duration of approximately ten and a half hours** may be tiring for some, and one reviewer noted a late change of drop-off location at the end of the day.

While the price includes parking fees, WiFi, and wine tasting, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. For those seeking in-depth guided history, this tour’s format might feel a bit limited.

Alsace Village Tour: Perfect for Scenic, Relaxed Sightseeing

This well-organized tour offers an excellent way to see multiple medieval villages without the stress of driving or planning logistics. The scenic routes and charming towns, combined with wine tasting and local cuisine, make for a rich cultural experience.

The expert driver and friendly guide help create a warm atmosphere, and reviews confirm the tour’s value and enjoyment. While some may wish for more detailed historic commentary, the overall experience remains highly rated and well-received.

People who enjoy scenic drives, exploring charming villages, and tasting regional wines will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s an ideal choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day in Alsace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a stop in Riquewihr for you to enjoy a meal.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours 30 minutes from start to finish.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from the bus station of Strasbourg, 1 Parc de l’Étoile, and returns to the same location.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted, and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi onboard, parking fees, and wine tasting at a local winery.

Are there options for non-alcoholic drinks?
Yes, non-alcoholic beverages are available during the wine tasting session.

How many villages are visited on this tour?
Five villages are visited: Bergheim, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.

Can I explore the villages independently?
Yes, each stop allows free exploration within the designated time, giving flexibility to visit shops, take photos, or relax.

What makes this tour different from other Alsace trips?
This tour features scenic drives in a convertible bus, wine tasting at a local winery, and visits to villages voted favorite by the French, all within a manageable day trip.

Is the guide’s commentary detailed?
Guides provide audio commentary during the bus rides, but during free visits, there is no live guide providing detailed historic info.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Overall, reviews highlight the beauty of the villages, the friendly driver, and the quality of the wine tasting. Some note the long duration but find the experience worthwhile.