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Where to Stay in Alsace

Where to Stay in Alsace

Alsace Alsace And Lorraine, France Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Diverse Lodging Choices

  • Hostels (Auberges de Jeunesse)

    Found in Strasbourg and Mulhouse, offering dormitory beds and sometimes private rooms. A good choice for budget travelers and those seeking social connections. Find options on Hostelworld.

  • Hotels

    Ranging from budget 1-2 star to luxury 4-5 star properties. Both international chains and independent boutique hotels are widely available in cities and larger towns. Look for stays on Booking.com or Agoda, or consider IHG Hotels.

  • Charming B&Bs (Chambres d'Hôtes)

    Popular in Wine Route villages, B&Bs feature personal service, local charm, and often include traditional breakfast. They present a more intimate and authentic journey.

  • Gîtes (Self-catering Cottages/Apartments)

    Vacation rentals frequently found in rural areas and wine villages. They are good for families, groups, or longer stays, typically including kitchen facilities. Find options on Booking.com or Vrbo.

Specialty Stays

  • Relais & Châteaux

    They are typically located in scenic settings and present exceptional service and fine dining.

  • Wine Estates (Domaines Viticoles)

    Some vineyards feature rooms or gîtes directly on their property, creating an unique ambiance.

  • Alsatian-Style Houses

    Many hotels and guesthouses are within traditional half-timbered Alsatian buildings, providing a distinctive architectural and cultural charm.

  • Ferme-Auberges

    These farm inns, found in rural areas like the Vosges mountains, frequently serve traditional meals from farm ingredients and may feature simple lodging.

Neighborhood Guide

A detailed breakdown of areas in Alsace's main cities and popular regions.

Strasbourg

Highlights
  • Grande Île: UNESCO site, medieval heart, picturesque.
  • Neustadt: Grand Imperial architecture, quieter.
  • Quartier Gare: Transport hub, practical for arrivals.
  • Ambiance: Bustling historic, elegant, functional.
Considerations
  • Grande Île: Can be noisy, vehicle access limited, higher prices.
  • Neustadt: Less "Alsatian" feel.
  • Quartier Gare: Busy, less charm at night in some parts.
  • Safety: Awareness of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas is wise.

Colmar

Highlights
  • Old Town: Preserved medieval town, "Little Venice" canals, very picturesque.
  • Around the Train Station: Practical for train travel, more affordable lodging.
  • Ambiance: Fairytale-like, romantic, lively, functional.
Considerations
  • Old Town: Can be very crowded, parking is challenging.
  • Around the Train Station: Lacks historic charm.
  • Safety: Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded Old Town areas.

Alsace Wine Route Villages

Highlights
  • Quintessential Alsatian charm, vineyard surroundings.
  • Immersive experience in wine culture and village life.
  • Beautiful scenery, quieter, authentic feel.
  • Direct access to wine tastings.
Considerations
  • A car facilitates movement between villages.
  • Public transport options between villages are limited.
  • Fewer late-night dining choices.

General Ambiance and Safety

Ambiance:

Alsace offers a varied ambiance, from the bustling historic centers of Strasbourg and Colmar to the tranquil, idyllic wine villages. Each area has an unique atmosphere.

Safety:

Overall, Alsace is a very safe region. Standard urban precautions are appropriate in city centers, like awareness of surroundings in crowded tourist areas.

Booking Strategies

Planning your stay effectively.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Summer & Christmas Markets): Secure lodging 3-6 months beforehand, notably for popular places in Strasbourg, Colmar, and famous Wine Route villages.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Booking 1-3 months in advance generally suffices.
  • Low Season (Jan-March, Nov, excluding Christmas Markets): Availability may exist a few weeks beforehand. Booking is always a good idea for peace of mind.
  • Negotiation for Walk-in Rates: Not customary in France, but a slight possibility in very small, independent B&Bs during low season if rooms are spare.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Global Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, Vrbo and Expedia are widely used.
  • Local Systems: For gîtes and B&Bs, Gîtes de France Alsace is a reputable source.
  • Direct Bookings: Sometimes, properties offer special packages or better rates when booked directly.
  • House/Pet Sitting: TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Policies and Prices

Deposit and Cancellation Policies:
  • Policies vary by property and booking platform.
  • Always review terms before confirming.
  • Many properties feature free cancellation up to a certain date, providing flexibility.
  • Deposits are common for gîtes and for longer stays.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Accommodation prices change considerably with seasons.
  • Highest Prices: July and August (summer peak) and late November through December (Christmas markets).
  • Lower Prices: Prices decrease significantly in January-March and November (excluding Christmas markets).
  • Traveling during these times may bring substantial savings.

Important Booking Reminders

Flexibility:

Opt for flexible cancellation policies when available, especially if travel plans are uncertain.

Read Reviews:

Consult recent guest reviews on booking platforms for an accurate picture of the property.

Location Check:

Verify the precise location of the property relative to attractions and transport to suit your trip.

Accommodation Recommendations

A comparison table and specific recommendations for different traveler types.

Category Comparison

Budget Options €25 - €70 / night

Hostels, simple 1-2 star hotels, budget B&Bs, camping. Shared rooms or basic private rooms. Essential amenities. Best for those minimizing costs.

  • Example: Auberge de Jeunesse (Youth Hostel) in Strasbourg.
  • Example: Ibis Budget or Campanile hotels.
  • Example: A simple, family-run guesthouse outside the city center.
Mid-Range Options €70 - €150 / night

3-star hotels, charming B&Bs, apartment rentals, gîtes. Private rooms with good amenities. Often possess character, especially traditional B&Bs. Breakfast often comes with B&Bs. Good for comfortable travel without excessive spending.

  • Example: Hôtel Gutenberg in Strasbourg.
  • Example: A well-rated Chambre d'Hôtes (B&B) in Eguisheim or Ribeauvillé.
  • Example: A well-located apartment rental via Booking.com in Colmar.

Luxury & Family Choices

Luxury Options €150+ / night

4-5 star hotels, boutique hotels, Relais & Châteaux, upscale gîtes/châteaux. High-end amenities like spas, fine dining, and concierge service. Exceptional service and unique ambiance. Often in historic buildings or scenic locations. For a pampered and exclusive journey.

  • Example: Hôtel Cour du Corbeau MGallery in Strasbourg.
  • Example: Le Chambard in Kaysersberg (often features Michelin-starred dining).
  • Example: A renovated château or upscale gîte in a vineyard setting.
Family-Friendly Options

Apartment Rentals (Gîtes): Ample space, separate sleeping areas, kitchen facilities for flexible meal preparation and cost savings. Hotels with Family Rooms: Many properties offer family or connecting rooms. Campsites: Some feature amenities like pools, playgrounds, and activities, fun for children in warmer months. Location: Consider properties slightly outside city centers for more space, quiet, and easier parking.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels:

    In Strasbourg or Mulhouse, hostels offer opportunities to meet other travelers.

  • Well-Located Boutique Hotels or B&Bs:

    Select properties in central, well-lit areas for peace of mind and accessibility to attractions and dining.

  • Security:

    Give priority to lodging with good security measures.

Long-Stay & Cultural Significance

  • Long-Stay Accommodations:

    Gîtes and Apartment Rentals are ideal for stays of a week or longer. Many feature discounted weekly rates. This allows for a slower pace of travel and immersion into local culture.

  • Historic Hotels:

    Many hotels in Strasbourg and Colmar occupy historic buildings, especially in their Old Towns. For example, Cour du Corbeau in Strasbourg is a beautifully restored 16th-century building. Le Colombier Suites in Colmar has lodging in historic timber-framed houses.

  • Traditional Gîtes:

    Rent a gîte in a renovated traditional Alsatian house in a village like Riquewihr or Kaysersberg for an authentic regional architectural and cultural charm.

Preparation Reminder

Peak Season Booking

During peak seasons, book your accommodation as early as possible. This secures your preferred options and potentially better rates.

  • Early booking is always a sound strategy.
Consider Your Priorities

Match your accommodation choice to your travel style, budget, and desired experience in Alsace. Whether charm, convenience, or cost, something is available.

  • Research location and amenities.

Types of Accommodation

Auberges de Jeunesse

Dormitory-style lodging, ideal for younger travelers or those on a strict budget. Limited private rooms may exist. Social atmosphere.

Chambres d'Hôtes

Bed and Breakfasts, often in private homes, with a personalized touch and local character. Breakfast typically comes included.

Gîtes

Self-catering vacation rentals, offering kitchen facilities and more space. Popular for families or longer stays, especially in rural settings.