Grand Est, an adventure between traditions and modernity
4.9/5
150 reviews
Explore the unique charm of the Grand Est.
Cultural discovery and picturesque landscapes await you.
Trip ideas
Choose a category:
New Year's Eve on the traditional Alsace heart
France, Metropolitan - Gran... • 4 days
Metropolitan - Grand Est: when to go?
Grand Est offers contrasting and charming seasons. In spring, mildness sets in, ideal for exploring the blooming vineyards. Summer promises bright skies and pleasant temperatures for strolling in the city or countryside.
In autumn, the forests take on golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere. In winter, the region transforms with its enchanting Christmas markets and sometimes a light blanket of snow, perfect for enjoying a warm and friendly ambiance.
Activity ideas
Alsace Wine Tasting - Tour the Alsatian vineyards and savor refined wines in the heart of an enchanting landscape.
Trip along the Route des Crêtes - Set off on an adventure along the Route des Crêtes and enjoy spectacular views of the Vosges, between dense forests and misty peaks.
Discovering Medieval Castles - Set out on the trail of knights by exploring the impressive medieval castles of the Grand Est, true witnesses to a fascinating history and majestic panoramas.
Discovering Strasbourg Cathedral - Admire the majesty of Strasbourg Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic heritage and a treasure of art, as you let yourself be carried away by its colorful stained glass windows and captivating history.
Exploring Lake Gérardmer - Discover Lake Gérardmer, where the water sparkles in the heart of the Vosges mountains, ideal for a peaceful getaway with walks, swimming, and water activities.
Immersion in traditional Christmas markets - Let yourself be charmed by the magic of the Christmas markets in the Grand Est, with enchanting lights, the aroma of spices, and authentic craftsmanship.
Hiking in the Vosges - Explore the wooded trails of the Vosges and breathe in the fresh air as you discover wild landscapes, between secret waterfalls and sunlit clearings.
Stroll through the historic center of Colmar - Stroll through the cobbled streets of Colmar, admire its colorful half-timbered houses, and immerse yourself in a charming medieval atmosphere.
Must-see locations
Grand Est: between prestigious vineyards and historical heritage
Basked by the majestic Rhine, covering 10 departments, with 5.5 million inhabitants and more than 5,000 municipalities, the Grand Est region is the only one in France to border 4 countries: Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland. This territory, 80% occupied by forest and agriculture, is characterized by its greenery and rurality. It is an ideal destination for green tourism. Boasting remarkable natural spaces, with 6 regional natural parks and 25 nature reserves, the region nevertheless hosts 5 major metropolitan areas rich in history and heritage: Metz, Mulhouse, Nancy, Reims, and Strasbourg.
This region is home to five charming tourist destinations – Alsace, Ardenne, Champagne, Lorraine, and the Vosges – each offering a unique character and specialties ranging from sauerkraut to champagne, from thermal baths to ecotourism. Discover Small Cities of Character® (12 labeled in the region), the Grande Île of Strasbourg and the Alsace Wine Route, the old town of Colmar and the Vosges Crest Route, the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, the beautiful cities of Metz and Troyes, the battlefields of Verdun and Lake Madine, Reims Cathedral and the Reims Mountain, among other gems. To make the most of this variety, rely on your tourist guide to the Lorraine-Vosges region or on the City Books of Metz, Mulhouse, Nancy or Strasbourg.
A journey to the heart of traditions and diversity
This region in the east of France and at the heart of Europe, stretching from Strasbourg to Nogent-sur-Seine, is the result of the merger of the former regions of Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne and Lorraine.
A Journey Through the History of the Grand Est
Welcome to the Grand Est, a region where history blends harmoniously with culture and nature. Here, every city is an open book on the past, from the cobbled streets of Strasbourg to the imposing cathedrals of Reims. Enjoy a glass of champagne in the heart of the Champagne vineyards or stroll through the picturesque Alsatian villages with their colorful half-timbered houses. Lorraine invites you to discover its rich industrial heritage and fascinating museums. Beyond the urban landscapes, the forests of the Vosges and the verdant hills offer trails for hikers seeking tranquility. The Grand Est is also the stage for vibrant festivals that celebrate music, cinema, and art in all its forms. Each season unveils a new facet of this captivating region, promising an unforgettable journey to curious visitors and history enthusiasts.
The Enchanting Vineyards of the Grand Est
Discover the enchanting vineyards of the Grand Est, where the wine landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, promising an unforgettable sensory experience. The rolling hills of Champagne are dotted with carefully cultivated vines, producing the sparkling nectar that has brought worldwide fame to the region. In Alsace, let yourself be charmed by the wine route, winding through quaint villages where time seems to stand still. Each estate welcomes you warmly, sharing the secrets of their prestigious wines, from Riesling to Gewurztraminer. Lorraine, on the other hand, surprises with its lesser-known yet equally delicious wines, offering unique aromas that awaken the taste buds. Participate in the harvest to experience the excitement of gathering and taste local products that enhance every tasting. Between tradition and innovation, the vineyards of the Grand Est invite you to an epicurean journey at the heart of a region where the art of living is a true way of life.
To fully discover the Grand Est region, it is recommended to plan a stay of at least 5 to 7 days. This allows you to visit the main cities, vineyards, historical sites, and enjoy the varied landscapes.
To organize a honeymoon in the Grand Est, start by choosing a romantic city such as Strasbourg or Colmar. Book a charming hotel, plan visits to vineyards, gourmet dinners, and strolls through picturesque villages.
To have a great holiday with a baby in the Grand Est, choose suitable accommodation, visit quiet villages like Kaysersberg, and enjoy stroller walks in natural parks or along the canals.
For a family hiking trip in the Grand Est, explore the trails of the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, the Route des Crêtes, Lake Gérardmer, and the Petite Pierre forest. These sites offer beautiful nature and stunning scenery.
To practice ecotourism in the Grand Est, choose eco-friendly accommodations, explore regional natural parks by bike or on foot, and support local producers during your visits.
The budget for a stay in the Grand Est depends on the duration, mode of transport, and type of accommodation. Plan for between 80 and 150 euros per day per person for a comfortable trip, excluding transport to the region.
To get to the Grand Est, you can take a TGV train from Paris to cities like Strasbourg, Metz or Nancy. The A4 motorway also connects Paris to the region. Flights also serve Strasbourg and Mulhouse.
To travel to the Grand Est, France, citizens of the European Union only need a valid identity card or passport. For non-EU nationals, a passport and sometimes a visa are required.
To travel with peace of mind in the Grand Est, it is recommended to consult official advice, take out travel insurance, and keep emergency numbers with you. The region is generally safe and welcoming.
To travel to the Grand Est, France, no specific vaccine is required apart from the basic vaccinations recommended in France, such as diphtheria, tetanus, and polio. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date.