Self-Guided Basel to Strasbourg Alsace Bike Tour
Cycle through the heart of Alsace and the surrounding trinational region, where Switzerland, Germany, and France come together in a unique cultural tapestry. Along the way, charming villages appear one after another, each with its own character, while vineyards stretch across the rolling hills as far as the eye can see. Your journey begins in the Basel Eurodistrict, a lively hub known for its cosmopolitan flair, picturesque streets, and relaxed lifestyle.
As you pedal through the region, discover the historic charm of Freiburg with its Gothic cathedral and scenic old town, the fairy-tale streets of Colmar lined with colorful half-timbered houses, and the European elegance of Strasbourg, with its canals, UNESCO-listed old town, and vibrant cultural life. Each stop offers the chance to savor local cuisine, sample world-famous wines, and immerse yourself in centuries of history and tradition.
This route is not just a cycling tour, but a journey through art, architecture, and scenic landscapes, offering countless opportunities for photography, leisurely walks, and authentic encounters with local culture.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Basel
Strasbourg
easy to moderate
45 km / 28 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg EuroAirport (BSL)
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Highlights

Alsace Wine Route and Storybook Villages
Ride along the legendary Route des Vins d’Alsace, discovering fairytale villages like Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg, famous for half-timbered houses, vineyards, and world-class wines.

Culture, History, and Iconic Cities
Explore cultural gems from Basel and Freiburg to Strasbourg, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, Gothic cathedrals, Roman ruins, and beautifully preserved old towns.

Trinational Cycling Experience
Cycle through the unique Basel Eurodistrict and the Upper Rhine Valley, crossing Switzerland, Germany, and France in one seamless journey with scenic river paths, vineyards, and historic towns.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Basel | Hôtel La Villa K (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Müllheim | Hotel Garni Schacherer | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Freiburg | Stadt Freiburg (4-star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Colmar | Grand Hotel Bristol (4‑star) | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Riquewihr | Hôtel La Caroune | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Obernai | Hôtel Le Colombier (4-star) | B | 43 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Strasbourg | Hotel Du Dragon (4-star) | B | 48 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Basel
Arrive in the unique trinational region of Basel and check into your hotel, conveniently located close to the lively Swiss city. Basel, Switzerland’s third-largest city, is full of charm. Explore its historic streets, admire beautiful architecture, and visit world-class museums. Take a relaxing stroll along the Rhine promenade, enjoy the vibrant cafés and local bakeries, or wander through colorful market squares.
In the evening, savor a welcome dinner at a traditional Swiss or international restaurant, and soak in the cosmopolitan yet relaxed atmosphere of this cultural hub. As night falls, enjoy the city lights reflecting on the Rhine, creating a perfect start to your Alsace cycling adventure.

Day 2: Müllheim
Cycle north along the scenic Rhine to reach Müllheim. Visit the fascinating Markgräfler Museum and admire the 14th-century frescoes in St. Martin Church. A short ride from Müllheim is Badenweiler, where a medieval castle and the ruins of a Roman bath offer a glimpse into the past.
Take time to stroll through the charming streets of Müllheim, stopping at local cafés or bakeries for a quick refreshment. Enjoy the vineyard-covered landscapes along the route, perfect for photography and leisurely pauses. In Badenweiler, wander through the park surrounding the castle and soak in the serene atmosphere of this historic spa town. Finish the day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties and wines.

Day 3: Freiburg
Start the day with a visit to Heitersheim, where you can explore the elegant Villa Urbana and the historic castle of the Order of Malta. Continue your ride to the charming spa village of Bad Krozingen, located at the edge of the Black Forest, and take a moment to enjoy its peaceful streets and quaint cafes. From there, pedal onward to Freiburg, the vibrant heart of Breisgau, known for its cobbled streets, lively markets, and Gothic cathedral.
Upon arrival in Freiburg, immerse yourself in the city’s historic charm before heading up to the Schlossberg, where panoramic views unfold over the rooftops and the distant Vosges mountains. Capture photographs, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy a quiet moment as the sun sets over this scenic city. Later, explore Freiburg’s old town at your leisure, perhaps stopping at a local café or bistro to sample regional delicacies and wines.

Day 4: Colmar
Follow the Breisgau-Radweg to Breisach on the Rhine. Explore its cathedral, historic streets, and charming alleys. Cross into France to visit Neuf-Brisach, a Vauban fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site, with fascinating 17th and 18th-century history.
Reach Colmar, Alsace’s wine capital, and wander through its beautifully preserved old town. Visit the Unterlinden Museum to see the Issenheim Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Western art.

Day 5: Riquewihr
From Colmar, cycle through the Alsace plain and follow the legendary Route des Vins, a mythical itinerary lined with rolling vineyards, scenic landscapes, and picturesque wine towns brought to life by passionate local winemakers. At the foot of the Vosges Mountains, charming villages await, each offering unique architecture, cobblestone streets, and the chance to sample some of the region’s finest Alsatian wines.
Among these gems, Eguisheim and Kaysersberg stand out, both recognized as France’s favorite villages in 2013 and 2017. Take time to stroll through their half-timbered houses, flower-filled streets, and quaint squares, and perhaps stop at a local winery to taste the crisp whites and aromatic reds the region is famous for. Capture photographs, enjoy the relaxed pace, and soak in the enchanting charm of Alsace’s heartland.

Day 6: Obernai
Continue along the Alsace Wine Route and explore the picturesque villages of Hunawihr, Ribeauvillé, Bergheim, and Andlau, home to its historic Roman abbey. Each village offers a wealth of experiences, from strolling through medieval streets to discovering local biodiversity, artisan workshops, and quaint markets showcasing regional products.
Arriving in Obernai, you are welcomed by classic Alsatian charm and a warm, vibrant atmosphere. Take time to explore the town’s cobblestone squares, half-timbered houses, and traditional craft shops, or venture into the surrounding countryside to enjoy scenic nature trails and vineyards. Along the way, indulge in local cuisine, sample exquisite wines, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting region.

Day 7: Strasbourg
In Rosheim, explore the Saints-Pierre-et-Paul Church, a true jewel of Alsatian Romanesque architecture, with its intricate stonework and historic charm. Continue your journey to Molsheim, where you join the bicycle path along the Bruche Canal, winding gently through scenic landscapes and charming villages, all the way to the heart of Strasbourg, the European capital.
In Strasbourg, marvel at the sumptuous Gothic cathedral, wander through the UNESCO-listed old town with its picturesque canals, and soak in the city’s 2,000 years of rich history. Take time to enjoy the local cafés, shops, and artisan boutiques, and experience the city’s renowned gastronomy and art of living.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, either depart or extend your stay to discover more hidden gems in this enchanting region. Explore nearby vineyards, medieval villages, or serene nature trails, or enjoy a leisurely day wandering the charming streets and canals of Strasbourg.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $720
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $250
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

KTM Macina Cross 720 or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo de Ville SEB 890 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
The easiest way to arrive in Basel is often to fly directly into Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg Airport (BSL/MLH/EAP). This unique tri-national airport serves Switzerland, France, and Germany and is well connected to major European hubs such as Amsterdam, Paris, and Frankfurt. From the airport, Basel’s city center is just 10–15 minutes away by tram or taxi, making this the most straightforward option when direct or one-stop flights are available.
If direct flights to Basel are limited or expensive, a very smooth alternative is to fly into a major European hub and continue by train. Zurich Airport (ZRH) is particularly convenient, with frequent direct trains reaching Basel in about 1 to 1.5 hours. Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is another strong long-haul gateway, offering regular direct train connections to Basel in roughly 3 to 4 hours. Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) also works well, with high-speed TGV services linking the airport to Basel in around 3 hours.
Overall, travelers coming from outside Europe will usually find the best balance of flight choice and ease by arriving via Zurich, Frankfurt, or Paris, then finishing the journey by train. For those already in Europe, flying straight into Basel’s EuroAirport is often the quickest and most convenient solution.
Departure
The tour ends in Strasbourg, a city that is exceptionally well connected by high-speed rail.
The most convenient way to depart is to take a direct train from Strasbourg to to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport and take a direct train to Strasbourg.
Direct TGV trains run from Strasbourg to inside the airport.
Travel time: ~2 hours
No need to enter Paris city
Frankfurt International Airport (FRA) is also very popular for long-haul arrivals. It has direct ICE/TGV train connections to Strasbourg
Travel time: ~2–2.5 hours
Zurich Airport (ZRH) is another smaller but efficient option.
Direct or 1-change trains
Travel time: ~2.5 hours
This option offers the best balance of flight availability, comfort, and simplicity, especially after a long-haul journey.
Strasbourg also has a small international airport, and it is possible to fly directly from Strasbourg Airport (SXB). However, the airport offers limited international flights (mostly European connections), and often requires a connection via Paris, Amsterdam, or Frankfurt
Convenient if timings align, but usually more expensive and less flexible. It takes 10-minutes by train from Strasbourg city center to reach the Strasbourg airport or a taxi (~15 minutes)
Weather
Alsace follows a clear seasonal rhythm, with each period offering a different travel experience. January to March are considered the off-season, marked by cold temperatures and a calm atmosphere, making them less suitable for cycling and outdoor activities.
April represents a mixed season, as spring begins to settle in. Temperatures usually range between 10°C and 18°C, and blooming flowers gradually add color to the landscape. May is a good season, bringing pleasantly mild weather that is ideal for sightseeing, vineyard walks, and cycling.
June, July, and August form the best season, with average temperatures around 22°C to 28°C, and occasional heat waves pushing temperatures higher. Long, sunny days make this period perfect for outdoor adventures, wine routes, and cultural exploration.
September is again classified as a good season, offering comfortable temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, fewer crowds, and beautiful vineyard scenery during harvest time.
October is a mixed season, with cooler days and striking autumn colors transforming forests and vineyards, creating a scenic but slightly unpredictable climate.
Finally, November and December return to the off-season, with colder weather and a quiet, peaceful ambiance. While outdoor activities are limited, this period is ideal for exploring Alsace’s historic towns, museums, and festive markets without the summer crowds.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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