Visiting Eguisheim, France: The Beauty and the Beast Town
Eguisheim, France is the ultimate fairytale destination in France. In fact, it was named one of the most beautiful villages in France. Not only that, Beauty and the Beast was inspired by this village among other Alsace villages in France.
Once you arrive, you will easily understand why. I am a little obsessed with this cute town and I’ve visited 3 times. All have been during the Christmas season to attend Eguisheim’s Christmas Market. It is the perfect destination for Christmas and all-year round!
Read on for my guide to this utterly charming village.
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How to Get to Eguisheim
The nearest major airports are in Strasbourg and Basel-Mulhouse, both about an hour’s drive away.
To get to Eguisheim, you’ll need to take the train to Colmar and from there you can drive, take a taxi, or the local bus over to Eguisheim. It is located only 7 kilometers from Colmar but unfortunately there is no train station in Eguisheim.
I have arrived to Eguisheim in the past by using the local bus which costs about €4 and drops you a short walk from the village. You can buy the bus ticket directly on the bus using cash. The frequency is not too often for the bus so you’ll need to plan wisely using Google Maps.
If you’re here during the Christmas period, you can take the Christmas shuttle which is way more frequent (every 30 minutes). However, you’ll need to buy tickets online well in advance as they do sell out.
If you can rent a car, that would actually be the best thing to do. This way, you can explore many other beautiful villages in Alsace such as Riquewihr, Kayersberg, Obernai, and so on.
Best Time to Visit Eguisheim
While Eguisheim is relatively a hidden gem, during the Christmas season it is still extremely busy. While it is not nearly as crowded as Colmar, I found it busier the last time I went than a few years back.
I would say the best time to visit is during Christmas where you can also see the Christmas Market as well as the holiday decor. The yearly Christmas Market is typically from November 29th to December 30th.
However, if you want to visit it without the crowds, going in spring or autumn are also great choices. If you visit during Spring, the town will fill up with gorgeous flowers.
10 Best Things to do in Eguisheim, France
1. Wander the charming streets
You will find that the main street in Eguisheim has a circular pathway you can follow all the way around to where you started from! The street is called Rue du Rempart and every corner is super cute and picturesque.
In summer, you will find the pastel-colored half-timbered houses adorned with flower boxes.
While in winter you will see so much festive decoration with just about every home having a teddy bear in the window!
2. Visit the Famous Instagram Spots in Eguisheim
Every corner is a Instagram photo in Eguisheim but the two most beautiful spots are pictured above!
3. Admire the fountain of Saint Léon
This fountain is in the main square.
4. Explore the Castle of Eguisheim
Château Saint-Léon dates back to the 11th century. It is located right behind the fountain in the main square.
5. Go to the Christmas Market
If you’re visiting in November or December, the Christmas Market is a must! It is so small and intimate making it one of the most authentic experiences in Alsace.
Christmas in Alsace is such a magical time and if you want to experience fewer crowds than Colmar, Eguisheim is the answer.
The Christmas market takes place from November 29th to Dec 30th.
6. Visit the Mushroom shop!
I am obsessed with this store. It has so many delcious truffle products in there so be sure to take some home. You won’t regret it! It’s called La Boutique du Champignon and is located on Rue du Rempart street.
7. Try Flammekueche
This Alsatian specialty resembles a very thin pizza and it’s really delcious. I tried mine at a casual spot, Bar St Leon.
8. Taste Local Alsace Wines
Eguisheim is part of the Alsace wine route. Visit family-run wineries to sample the region’s specialties like Riesling and Gewurztraminer.
Popular spots include Domaine Gruss & Fils and Domaine Bruno Hertz.
9. Visit St. Peter and Paul Church
This church is the center of the town and was rebuilt in 1220.
10. Discover the Nearby Villages
Eguisheim is close to other beautiful Alsatian villages, such as Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Kaysersberg.
Eguisheim Best Restaurants and Bakeries
Bakeries
Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie: pastry shop and where I got the cutest gingerbread man cookie
Boulangerie Patisserie Marx: for baked goods and coffee
Restaurants
L’assiette d’Eguisheim: Great place with vegetarian options too.
Au Vieux Porche: A French restaurant with Michelin rating
Caveau d’Eguisheim: don’t miss the flaming creme brulee dessert.
Bar St Leon: A bar with the best Flammekueche (flatbread with cheese & toppings)
You may also like these posts:
🚆 Best European Christmas Markets by Train
🐻 Best Christmas Displays in Paris
🇨🇭Bern, Switzerland Christmas Guide
🎄Cologne Christmas Market Guide
🏰 Christmas Guide to Rothenburg, Germany
🎅 Christmas Guide to Vienna, Austria
🎅🏼 Christmas Markets in Alsace, France
🎡 Best Christmas Decorations in London
🇨🇿 Best Christmas Markets in Prague
