Strasbourg, the captivating capital of the region, is a dream come true for oenophiles seeking authentic flavors and unforgettable culinary experiences. As the northern gateway to the historic Wine Route, the city serves as the perfect base for exploring the best Alsace wineries before retreating to the scenic canals of Petite France. Whether you’re wandering through its Christmas markets or enjoying a flight of natural wines by the water, Strasbourg is a one-of-a-kind destination. From casual bars offering local crus by the glass to elegant restaurants with extensive cellar lists, this guide unveils the best places to sip, savor, and stay awhile.
What are the best wine bars in Strasbourg?
Au Fil du Vin Libre – The haven for natural wines
An unmissable address for fans of living wines (“vins vivants”), Au Fil du Vin Libre offers a beautiful selection of natural and biodynamic wines in a cozy setting. Guests come here to discover cuvées from small-scale producers, paired with carefully selected cheese and charcuterie boards. It is the ideal wine bar for a laid-back tasting experience in the heart of Strasbourg.
Vino Strada – Italian flavors and fine vintages
This Strasbourg wine bar blends a passion for wine with Italian gastronomy. At Vino Strada, you can savor exceptional vintages accompanied by transalpine delights: creamy burrata, antipasti, and fine cured meats. A warm and inviting spot that lets you travel between Alsace and Italy, one glass at a time.
Le Purgatoire – A unique and atmospheric wine bar
Le Purgatoire is an address that takes you off the beaten path in Strasbourg. With an ambiance that is both intimate and lively, it sets the perfect stage for an evening centered around wine. The bar features a carefully curated selection of vintages, highlighting local producers and passionate winemakers. The menu is designed to complement every glass with small plates, tapas, and sharing boards, perfect for discovering new flavors in a friendly atmosphere. It’s an ideal stop for those looking to extend their oenological journey in the city center, blending taste discoveries with moments of connection.
Ill Vino Bar – Creative tastings in a modern setting
Ill Vino Bar is a must-visit for wine lovers who enjoy stepping outside the classic formats. Set in a modern and friendly decor, this bar offers a meticulous wine selection, often focusing on original finds and cuvées from independent winemakers. It is the perfect place to enjoy a glass with friends, explore unexpected pairings, or simply relax with the wines of the moment. The stylish yet warm atmosphere makes this a lovely stop during a night out in Strasbourg.
What are the best things to do in Strasbourg ?
Stroll through the Historic Streets of Petite France
Nestled in the heart of old Strasbourg, Petite France is a postcard-perfect district with timber-framed houses, gently flowing canals, and cobbled lanes. With plenty of cafes and cozy wine bars offering regional specialities like choucroute garnie and foie gras, it’s the perfect place to relax with a glass of Riesling or vintage bottle from the region.
Explore the Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame)
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the tallest in Europe and an iconic part of France. After taking in the stunning views from the top, recharge at a nearby wine bar with indoor and outdoor seating and indulge in a cheese or charcuterie plate paired with an elegant Alsatian white wine.
Wine & dine around Place du Marché Gayot
This lively square brims with restaurants, lounges, and wine bars offering extensive wine lists. It’s a perfect spot to reserve a table and enjoy a cozy dinner of traditional Alsatian cuisine with a thoughtfully curated selection of natural wines, liquors, or French wine staples.
Visit Cave des Hospices Strasbourg
Hidden beneath the city’s hospital, this historic wine store and domaine is one of Strasbourg’s oldest treasures, a true paradise if you love wine. The atmospheric cellar lets you explore the aging process and even taste interesting bottles of local white and red varietals like Sylvaner, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir.
Relax along the canal
Searching for romance or just a quiet evening with a great glass of wine? Choose a seat along the canal at one of the top-rated wine bars in Strasbourg. Order a flight of wines by the glass and enjoy regional snacks like onion tart, pretzel, and fresh bread. Atmospheres range from rustic and wooden to spacious and modern.
Dream at the Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Strasbourg serves as the beating heart of the world-famous Alsace Christmas market tradition. As you wander through the wooden chalets, sipping on hot spiced wine and enjoying the festive lights, you are part of a centuries-old heritage. To make sure you don’t miss the best chalets and hidden gems, dive into our dedicated guide to the Strasbourg Christmas market. Afterwards, retreat to one of the excellent wine bars nearby to taste rare varietals in a cozy setting.
Tour the region
Departing from Strasbourg, Tour Alsace offers wine tours designed to reveal the region’s iconic villages and the stunning landscapes of the Alsace vineyards. Combining tastings with local producers, strolls through the vines, and insights into Alsatian varietals, this experience is the perfect way to escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in wine culture with ease.
What are the best things to do around Strasbourg ?
Wander the Alsace wine route for authentic vineyard charm
Just a short 30-minute drive from most wine bars in Strasbourg, the legendary Alsace Wine Route invites you to explore a patchwork of vineyards, each offering a unique perspective on French wine culture. Stretching over 170 kilometers through charming villages like Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, this scenic route is ideal for wine lovers looking to expand their palate. With local winemaking traditions dating back centuries, you can taste signature whites like Riesling or enjoy authentic regional cuisine paired with an exceptional vintage. You’re in search of rare bottles or just a cozy seat among the vines, don’t forget to book your visits in advance,especially during the summer or the busy Christmas market season.
Explore the medieval town of Obernai
Located just 30 minutes of Strasbourg, the picturesque town of Obernai is a paradise for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. Start your visit in the historic center, where traditional Alsatian architecture surrounds lively cafés and artisan wine bars. This area offers an elegant blend of French wine and regional plates like choucroute garnie and foie gras. Pair your dish with wines by the glass, beautifully listed on curated menus, ideal for discoverers who love to taste and relax. Between bites of cheese and slices of fresh bread, browse a wine store featuring a curated collection of wines that includes both natural wines and vintage bottles from Alsace and beyond.
Discover the fairytale charm of Riquewihr
Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Vineyards,” this medieval village is a quick and scenic drive south of Strasbourg. Stepping inside the ancient ramparts feels like walking into a storybook, but the village offers much more than just postcard-perfect architecture. When planning your list of top Riquewihr things to do, make sure to prioritize climbing the Dolder Tower for a panoramic view of the vines and exploring the historic Thieves’ Tower (Tour des Voleurs). Of course, no visit is complete without stepping into a centuries-old cellar to taste a Grand Cru Sporen or Schoenenbourg directly from the source.
Good to know for wine bars Strasbourg
Are there wineries in Strasbourg, France?
While Strasbourg itself is a vibrant city rather than a winemaking hub, it sits right in the heart of the Alsace wine region. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find charming villages like Obernai, Barr, and Riquewihr, all home to picturesque vineyards and family-run wineries. Many wine bars in Strasbourg proudly serve wines sourced directly from these nearby producers, offering you a local tasting experience without needing to leave the city.
What are wine bars called in France?
In France, wine bars are commonly known as bars à vin. These establishments specialize in offering a wide variety of wines by the glass or bottle, often accompanied by cheese, charcuterie, and other regional specialties. In Strasbourg, you’ll find a blend of traditional Alsatian bars à vin and more contemporary wine bars showcasing natural and biodynamic wines.
What drink is Strasbourg famous for?
Strasbourg is best known for its white wines, particularly those from the Alsace region. Iconic varietals such as Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Sylvaner are favorites among locals and visitors alike. Besides wine, Strasbourg also has a strong beer culture due to its Germanic heritage – so don’t be surprised to find excellent regional craft breweries as well.
What is the most famous wine area in France?
France boasts several world-renowned wine regions, but perhaps the most famous is Bordeaux, known for its exceptional red blends. However, for white wine lovers, the Alsace wine route, starting near Strasbourg, is among the most picturesque and flavorsome in the country. This region produces aromatic and food-friendly wines that are highly appreciated by wine connoisseurs.
What are the best hotels in Strasbourg?
Strasbourg offers a range of accommodations for wine lovers and travelers alike. Here are some top recommendations:
- Hôtel Régent Petite France – A luxurious hotel set in a former 17th-century mill, offering views of the canals and an exceptional wine list in-house.
- Hôtel Cour du Corbeau – A boutique hotel with historic charm and a central location, perfect for walking to nearby wine bars.
- BOMA Hotel – A stylish, modern option with a hip restaurant and bar featuring local wines.
- Hotel Gutenberg – A well-priced downtown hotel with easy access to Strasbourg’s top wine bars and bistros.
What are the best restaurants Strasbourg?
To truly immerse yourself in Alsatian gastronomy, try these local favorites:
- Chez Yvonne – A historic Winstub serving traditional dishes like choucroute garnie and tarte flambée.
- La Corde à Linge – Located in Petite France, serving hearty Alsatian cuisine with a creative twist.
- Le Clou – One of the most loved spots for an authentic Alsatian dining experience.
- Brasserie Les Haras – Stylish and upscale, perfect for pairing refined dishes with a great wine list.
What is the best time to visit wine bars in Strasbourg?
The best time to explore wine bars in Strasbourg is during the fall harvest season (September to October), when the Alsace region is alive with vineyard activity. However, December is also a magical period, as many wine bars serve warm mulled wine during the Strasbourg Christmas Market, one of the oldest in Europe.
Do Strasbourg wine bars offer wine tastings?
Yes, many wine bars in Strasbourg offer curated tasting experiences, allowing you to sample a selection of local wines ranging from crisp Rieslings to aromatic Gewürztraminers. Some bars also host events with winemakers and themed tasting nights that delve into specific varietals or vintages.
Are Strasbourg wine bars suitable for non-French speakers?
Absolutely! Strasbourg is a very international and tourist-friendly city. Most wine bar staff speak English and are happy to recommend wines and explain tasting notes. Wine menus often include descriptions in both French and English to help you make the perfect choice.
Can I buy Alsace wines to take home from wine bars?
Many wine bars in Strasbourg offer bottles for takeaway, making it convenient to bring a taste of Alsace home with you. Some even collaborate directly with local vineyards, offering exclusive labels not available in mainstream shops. Don’t hesitate to ask staff for recommendations based on your tasting preferences during your visit.
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