Strasbourg and the Grand Est region offer a semi-continental climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. You'll find exceptional natural beauty here, from the plains of Alsace to the Vosges mountains and the vineyards of Champagne. The Grand Est region was the scene of Franco-German conflicts and the signing of the Treaty of Verdun in 843, which divided the Carolingian Empire. Today, visitors from all over the world enjoy local specialties such as Alsatian sauerkraut, Champagne wines, and the famous pretzels.
The Grand Est: your checklist of things to do
Here is our selection of the best activities for discovering the Grand Est region:
1. Visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims
Description: Dive into history by visiting this Gothic masterpiece, the coronation site of the kings of France.
Average cost: Free, but paid guided tours are available.
Location: Reims
Favorite weather: Year-round, but especially impressive on clear days.
2. Wine tasting on the Alsace Wine Route
Description: Travel 170 km of picturesque villages and taste local wines.
Average cost: Varies depending on the tasting, around €30 per person.
Location: Departure from Colmar or Strasbourg
Favorite weather: Spring or fall for the colors of the vineyards.
3. Hike to Lac du Der-Chantecoq
Description: Enjoy water activities and observe the flora and fauna around this artificial lake.
Average cost: Free, but some activities may require payment.
Location: Near Saint-Dizier
Favorite weather: Summer for water activities.
4. Exploration of the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
Description: Discover this medieval castle perched at an altitude of 750 meters with a breathtaking view of Alsace.
Average cost: Around €12 per adult.
Location: Orschwiller
Favorite weather: Year-round, but best on a clear day for the view.
5. Visit to the Amnéville Zoo
Description: Meet over 2,000 animals from five continents, including orangutans and gorillas.
Average cost: Around €30 per adult.
Location: Amnéville
Favorite weather: Spring or summer to enjoy outdoor shows.
6. Stroll through the Old Town of Colmar
Description: Stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the half-timbered houses of "Little Venice".
Average cost: Free
Location: Colmar
Favorite weather: All year round, but especially charming in winter with the Christmas markets.
7. Discovery of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Natural Park
Description: Hike, mountain bike or simply enjoy the unspoiled natural landscapes.
Average cost: Free
Location: Vosges
Favorite weather: Spring or fall for the colors of nature.
8. Virtual Reality Experience in Strasbourg
Description: Dive into immersive games using virtual reality.
Average cost: Around €25 per person.
Location: Strasbourg
Favorite weather: Ideal for rainy weather or winter.
9. Microlight flight over the Vosges
Description: Admire the landscapes from the sky during a microlight baptism.
Average cost: Around €100 per person.
Location: Various spots like Colmar or Prunay.
Favorite weather: Clear weather for best visibility.
10. Relaxation at Lake Madine
Description: Enjoy the beaches and water activities in a preserved natural setting.
Average cost: Free, but some activities may require payment.
Location: Near Metz
Favorite weather: Summer for swimming and picnics.
These activities will allow you to discover the cultural, historical and natural wealth of the Grand Est region.