I moved to the capital of Alsace in 2019 and have traveled extensively around the region, but Riquewihr has always held a special place in my heart.
It’s popular, that’s for sure, but its beauty keeps bringing me back.
The colorful half-timbered houses, local cuisine, and museums are just a few reasons to visit.
In this post, I will share with you my favorite things to do in Riquewihr so you can make the most out of your trip.
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1. Try the Riquewihrienne
Of the things to try in Riquewihr, the Riquewihrienne should be at the top of your list. Plus, it’s only found here.
This tasty dish is like choucroute garnie. In fact, it’s often listed as “choucroute verte” on menus.
It consists of sauerkraut prepared with fresh chervil, dill, and parsley, topped with pan-fried meats (pork, goose, and duck).
It was created by François Kiener and is only served by five restaurants: le Dolder, l’Ecurie, le Médiéval, le Tire-Bouchon, and l’Arbalétrier.
I tried the Riquewihrienne at le Médiéval. Overall, I thought it was tastier than the traditional choucroute garnie and not as heavy.
2. Take in the Views over Riquewihr
While Riquewihr is known for its colorful houses, the views over the town aren’t bad either.
There is one viewpoint that lies beyond the vineyards.
To reach it, you’ll need to turn right on Rue du 5 Décembre (it intersects with Rue du Général de Gaulle).
Follow the road until you reach the first intersection and turn right, then turn right again at the next intersection.
Helpful Tip: Both roads are unnamed. I’ve indicated the viewpoint on the map at the end of this article.
Here you’ll find a beautiful view and an information board detailing the history of wine in Riquewihr.
3. Admire Riquewihr’s Ramparts
The ramparts of Riquewihr circle the town.
You can follow the road that runs beside them (Rue des Remparts) to explore the town’s medieval architecture.
The cobbled streets are lined with colorful half-timbered houses, most of which are residential.
This area is much quieter than the main streets, so take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the buildings.
Helpful Tip: If you’re visiting during the high season or on the weekend, I recommend doing this walk when you need a break from the crowds.
4. Ride the Kutzig Bus
The Kutzig Bus is one of my favorite ways to travel around Alsace. So far, I’ve used it twice. If you want my detailed guide, check out my comprehensive review.
This hop-on, hop-off bus stops by the region’s most picturesque villages, including Riquewihr.
It’s faster and easier to use than the public bus.
If you want to visit Riquewihr as a day trip from Colmar or as a base to explore the region, you can use the Kutzig Bus to travel between towns.
5. Take a Photo of Rue du Général de Gaulle
Rue du Général de Gaulle is the main street in town. And when you look up photos of Riquewihr, you’ll often see this street.
In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful photo spots in Alsace.
This is where you’ll find the most colorful half-timbered houses, local shops, wineries, and restaurants.
For the best photo, stand in front of the restaurant called D’Brendelstub (48 Rue du Général de Gaulle) and face the tower.
6. Explore the Alsace Wine Route
The Alsace Wine Route goes through Riquewihr, making it the perfect base to explore the area.
My favorite part of the route runs from Riquewihr to Ribeauvillé, passing by Hunawihr. It’s about 4.7 kilometers (2.9 miles), so you can walk or bike.
Helpful Tip: If you decide to drive, you will have to take the road designated for cars. It’s not as picturesque as the one for pedestrians and cyclists.
I opted to walk so I could take in the views and explore the vineyards along the way.
But either way, it’s worth adding to your itinerary if you’re in Alsace for a few days.
7. Tour Domaine Dopff au Moulin
There are quite a few wineries in Riquewihr, but if there is one to try, it’s Dopff au Moulin.
This family-owned winery is famous for pioneering Alsace’s sparkling wine, Crémant d’Alsace.
And, based on my experience, their reputation is well-deserved.
Their tastings offer a complete overview of their winemaking process, from the vineyards to the cellar. Plus, the wine is fantastic.
It’s one of the top wineries I recommend visiting in the region.
Address: 3 Rue du Général de Gaulle
8. Stop by the Christmas Market
There is no denying that Alsace is known for its Christmas markets, and the one in Riquewihr doesn’t disappoint.
I’ve been a few times, and, even on the weekend when it was swarming with people, I loved it.
The decorations were incredible, and it’s where I had some of the best vin chaud.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the region around Christmas, definitely add Riquewihr to your list.
Helpful Tip: If you want to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting Riquewihr’s Christmas market in the morning or at night during the week.
9. Visit Musée de la Tour des Voleurs et Maison de Vigenron
Riquewihr has two museums, and the Musée de la Tour des Voleurs et Maison de Vigenron was my favorite.
It’s located in the ramparts and covers the town’s history (which isn’t always easy to find).
The museum is divided into two sections.
The first is the ramparts, which were used as a defense tower and as a prison. You’ll walk along the former city walls and pass by a torture room and a guard room.
It’s here that you’ll learn about the history of Riquewihr with movies, posters, and other artifacts.
Then, you’ll enter the section dedicated to the Maison de Vigenron (Winegrower’s House).
And this is where you’ll get to see what life was like for winemakers in the 16th century. There’s a kitchen, a bedroom, and even a wine cellar.
Address: 14 Rue des Juifs
10. Shop at Au Marché de Riquewihr
Au Marché de Riquewihr is a small shop that sells traditional Alsatian foods.
Some of their most popular products are foie gras, choucroute garnie, and local cheeses.
They even sell foie gras d’oie, which can only be found in Alsace.
They have a shop on Rue du Général de Gaulle, but you can also order online if there are things you want to take home.
Address: 20 Rue du Général de Gaulle
11. Visit a Church
Riquewihr has quite a few churches. They aren’t as impressive as the Strasbourg Cathedral, but it’s worth stopping by at least one.
There is Katholische St. Margareten-Kirche, which you’ll pass by if you walk along Rue des Remparts.
Then, there is the Sainte-Marguerite Protestant Church.
It’s on Rue des Trois Églises or Street of Three Churches.
That means you’ll also be near two other churches – Ancienne Église Saint-Érard and Ancienne Église Notre-Dame de Riquewihr.
I, personally, loved Sainte-Marguerite Protestant Church. The street and the surrounding buildings were gorgeous.
Addresses:
- Katholische St. Margareten-Kirche: 12 Rue des Remparts
- Sainte-Marguerite Protestant Church: 20 Rue des Trois Églises
- Ancienne Église Saint-Érard: 14 Rue des Trois Églises
- Ancienne Église Notre-Dame de Riquewihr: 14 Rue des Trois Églises
12. Explore Musée du Dolder
The Musée du Dolder is in the infamous tower at the end of Rue du Général de Gaulle. It served as a watchtower and now houses this fascinating museum.
Inside, you’ll learn about Riquewihr’s development between the 13th and 17th centuries.
The only downside to this museum (compared to Musée de la Tour des Voleurs et Maison de Vigenron) is the opening times.
Hours in the offseason are limited, so double-check that it will be open when you visit.
The first time I visited, it was closed, and I had to return to Riquewihr.
Address: 57 Rue du Général de Gaulle
13. Rent a Bike
When I first visited Riquewihr, there was nowhere to rent a bike.
Fortunately, that has changed.
My favorite company is Détour Alsace. They are based in Sélestat but can deliver bikes to Riquewihr. I opted for a tour, which I recommend if you have time.
In general, they have excellent bikes (both electric and mountain) and accessories.
There’s also Le Vélo Libre. They opened a small self-service shop (at 2 Rue de la 1E Armée). You rent a bike online, and once you’ve made your reservation, you’ll receive a code to access the shop.
Overall, the process of renting and returning the bike is straightforward.
Helpful Tip: All bikes are electric. They also rent accessories like helmets.
14. Try a Macaron de Riquewihr
While Alsace is mostly known for its hearty and savory cuisine, there are a few sweet treats worth trying.
One of my favorites is the Macaron de Riquewihr. This small cookie comes in a variety of flavors.
I stopped by Au Petit Délice so I could pick out an assortment. I really liked the coconut one, but they were all good.
Address of Au Petit Délice: 45 Rue du Général de Gaulle
15. Wander Down the Side Streets
Riquewihr might be small, but there are plenty of little side streets to explore.
The ones that I thought were the prettiest were:
- Rue de la 1E Armée
- Rue du Cerf (photo above)
- Rue des Remparts
Helpful Tip: There are two streets in Google Maps called Rue des Remparts. Turn left at 36 Rue des Remparts for the section with the colorful half-timbered houses.
Map of Riquewihr
Below is a map of all the activities listed in this article. Click on the map to open Google Maps.
Where to Stay
Riquewihr is a small town, so there are only a few accommodation options. Below are the places I recommend.
- Hôtel De La Couronne: This bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms in a traditional half-timbered building. The staff are helpful, and there is parking.
- Best Western Hotel & SPA Le Schoenenbourg: A modern hotel that offers a quiet escape. The staff are helpful and the beds are comfortable.
- Hôtel le Saint Nicolas: A beautiful hotel with remodeled rooms. The staff are helpful and breakfast is delicious.
Where to Eat
Besides the restaurants I mentioned above, here are a few more dining options in Riquewihr.
- D’Brendelstub: Homemade local cuisine in a modern setting. The staff is friendly and speaks English.
- Restaurant Le Manala: A French-style restaurant with Alsatian specialties. The staff are friendly and the setting is cozy.
- La Grappe d’Or: A traditional Alsatian restaurant with a charming atmosphere. The service is fantastic, but they don’t take reservations, so get there early.
Conclusion
Riquewihr is a charming town packed with things to do. It’s easy to visit in a day, but I recommend staying a night. It’s quiet in the mornings and at night, and you can experience the town without the crowds.
Some of my favorite activities include taking pictures of the colorful buildings and exploring the Alsace Wine Route.
Now that you know how to spend your time in Riquewihr, why not check out some other things to do in the region?
Read More Articles
I hope you found this post helpful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.
- 15 Incredible Things to Do in Sélestat
- 15 Amazing Things to Do in Eguisheim, France
- A Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Things to Do in Kaysersberg
