Visit Riquewihr: the essential places to see and do

Riquewihr is one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace, if not the most beautiful! One of the best medieval towns in France. Nestled between mountains and vineyards, it is one of the best tourist places to discover in Alsace, well known for its picturesque architecture and its wines.

It is located along the Alsace wine route 15 km northwest of Colmar, in the Haut-Rhin department.

Whether you decide to visit Riquewihr on a day trip from Colmar or stay overnight as part of an Alsace roadtrip, here is a list of the best places to visit in Riquewihr.

The Ramparts of Riquewhir:

Riquewihr is surrounded by a large fortification wall. There are the ruins of the 13th century walls which surround part of the city. The second fortification wall was built in the 16th century. The picturesque Rue des Remparts passes between the two fortification walls.

The Porte Basse (low door – demolished) was the main access to Riquewihr. In this location today you can see the reproduction of an engraving from 1644 which shows an overview of the city with its two fortifications.

Rue Charles de Gaulle

Rue Charles de Gaulle, the main Street in Riquewihr. It is known for its Renaissance houses and framed by side streets and picturesque courtyards. Many of the prettiest houses in Riquewihr are found along Rue Charles de Gaulle.

The upper gate was built at the end of the 13th century. It was enlarged when the defensive system of Riquewihr was reinforced in the 16th century.

This street leads to the Dolder Tower, a 25-meter tower built in pink Vosges sandstone. Dolder means “the highest point” in Alsatian dialect and was erected at the same time as the first fortification walls in the 13th century.

The Dolder Tower and Museum:

Dating from the 13th century, the Dolder Tower is part of the original fortifications of Riquewihr. This tower served as a belfry and watchtower at the time, and it is the most emblematic monument of the city.

The Dolder Tower, a museum where you can learn about the history of Riquewihr from the 12th to the 17th century. You will find many artifacts there: several medieval weapons, cannons and fortifications are on display, successfully and interestingly illustrating the transformation of the city from the 12th to the 17th century. Once you reach the upper floors of the tower, you will have a magnificent view of the surrounding area.

Entrance is €4 and the museum is open from April to November each year.

The Riquewihr Christmas market:

From the end of November, many Alsatian towns will be decorated with twinkling lights, teddy bears, giant mannalas (Alsatian gingerbread men) and other magnificent decorations. If you love visiting Christmas markets and buying holiday souvenirs, then you will love Riquewihr at this time of year!

How to access Riquewihr from our Lodges?

Located in the heart of the Alsatian region, our lodges are located on the Alsace wine route in the beautiful village of Hunawihr. With family or friends, our lodges have several rooms with spa (jacuzzi) for a pleasant holiday in Alsace.

Our 5 lodges are accessible by car with free private parking with charging stations for electric cars.

Just 10 minutes from Riquewihr by car, the location of our lodges will allow you to enjoy the calm of the village while being in the heart of the unmissable sites of Alsace.

Do you want to go on vacation to the heart of the Alsatian Vineyard? Perhaps in the wine village of Hunawihr? Don’t wait any longer and book one of our 5 lodgings!