Self-Guided Strasbourg to Basel Alsace Wine Route
This romantic cycling journey begins in Strasbourg, the vibrant European capital where history and modern life blend effortlessly. From here, the route unfolds for nearly 170 km along the legendary Alsace Wine Route, where charming villages appear one after another like precious gems. In many of these storybook towns, medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and ancient ramparts create the feeling that time has gently paused centuries ago.
Life along the route is deeply connected to wine and gastronomy, with vineyards producing celebrated varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, and Sylvaner. Traditional Alsatian flavors accompany the journey, including Munster cheese, sauerkraut, baeckeoffe, kougelhopf, and the ever-popular tarte flambée. The ride also leads through the elegant towns of Colmar and Mulhouse, before reaching the tri-national region of Basel, where Swiss, French, and German cultures meet in a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere, perfectly rounding off this unforgettable experience.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Strasbourg
Eurodistrict Basel
easy to moderate
53 km / 33 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 12
Strasbourg Airport (SXB)
Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg EuroAirport (BSL)
Highlights

Legendary Alsace Wine Route
Cycle nearly 170 km through vineyard-covered hills and fairy-tale villages, discovering world-famous Alsatian wines and traditional gastronomy in a timeless medieval setting.

UNESCO-listed Architecture of Neuf-Brisach
Neuf-Brisach, a UNESCO World Hertiage Site, is famous for its perfectly preserved star-shaped fortifications, one of the finest examples of military architecture in Europe.

Tri-National Experience in Basel
End your journey in the unique Basel Eurodistrict, where France, Germany, and Switzerland come together, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle, diverse cultures, and scenic riverside cycling.
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 | Strasbourg | Hotel Diana Dauphine (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Obernai | Hotel Le Kastelberg | B | 48 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Riquewihr | Hôtel KLÉ (4-star) | B | 43 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Colmar | Le Grand Hotel Bristol (4-star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Colmar | Le Grand Hotel Bristol (4-star) | B | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Mulhouse | Le Bristol (4-star) | B | 65 km / 40 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Eurodistrict Basel | Hôtel La Villa K (4-star) | B | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Strasbourg
Arrive in Strasbourg and leave your luggage at the hotel before stepping into a city shaped by history and elegance. Begin your discovery with the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture admired for its soaring spire and intricate stonework.
Wander through the UNESCO listed historic center, where canals, cobbled lanes, and timber framed houses create a timeless atmosphere. As the day unfolds, enjoy the gentle rhythm of the city and its welcoming Alsatian spirit.

Day 2: Obernai
Cycle alongside the tranquil Bruche Canal, once an important route used to carry wine from surrounding vineyards to Strasbourg. Today, this peaceful path offers a smooth ride through green landscapes and quiet countryside. Pass through Molsheim before reaching Rosheim, home to a beautifully preserved Romanesque church dating back to the twelfth century.
Vineyards gradually replace urban scenery as you move deeper into wine country. The day concludes in the Obernai area, a region celebrated for its charm, hospitality, and winemaking traditions.

Day 3: Riquewihr
Today’s journey leads through the heart of Alsace’s most admired vineyard villages. Ride through Mittelbergheim, Andlau, Itterswiller, Dambach la Ville, Ribeauvillé, and Riquewihr, each offering its own blend of beauty and heritage. Flower adorned houses, stone fountains, and sloping vineyards define the scenery.
Opportunities along the way invite you to explore local customs, biodiversity, and traditional craftsmanship. This day offers a deep and memorable connection to the cultural soul of the region.

Day 4: Colmar
Continue along the celebrated Wine Route at the foot of the Vosges Mountains, where gentle hills frame rows of carefully tended vines. Discover storybook villages that have brought international fame to Alsace’s wines. Eguisheim and Kaysersberg, both named Favorite Village of the French, stand out for their exceptional character.
Your journey ends in Colmar, the wine capital of the region, renowned for its colorful streets and preserved heritage. Stroll through the historic center and visit the Unterlinden Museum, where the Issenheim Altarpiece stands as a masterpiece of Western art.

Day 5: Colmar
Today offers the freedom to relax or explore further. Spend a restful day in Colmar, enjoying its canals, colorful houses, and lively markets, or choose an optional cycling loop toward the south of the Alsace Wine Route.
Ride through rolling vineyard landscapes to reach Guebwiller, a town set at the gateway of the Vosges. From here, cycle to Bollwiller to board a train, or continue onward to Ungersheim for a visit to the Ecomusée d’Alsace. This open air museum recreates an early twentieth century village and offers insight into regional life and traditions. Continue by bike to Mulhouse before returning to Colmar by train at your own convenience
Day 6: Mulhouse
Leave Colmar and cycle toward Neuf Brisach, an impressive fortified town designed by Vauban and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route then continues south to Ottmarsheim, where a remarkable Romanesque church stands as a symbol of early medieval architecture.
Pedal through the quiet Hardt forest and follow the calm waters of the Rhône Rhine Canal. The journey ends in Mulhouse, a city that blends historical character with contemporary energy. Known for its industrial heritage, Mulhouse is home to the renowned automobile museum, a highlight for visitors

Day 7: Eurodistrict Basel
Follow the Rhône Rhine Canal along the EuroVelo 6 route toward Illfurth, then continue through the peaceful Sundgau region. This southern corner of Alsace is defined by half timbered farmhouses, reflective ponds, and softly changing landscapes. The ride offers a sense of calm and rural beauty, far from busy roads.
Your final destination is the tri national city of Basel, where France, Germany, and Switzerland meet. Basel is celebrated for its refined lifestyle, cultural richness, and relaxed cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, depart from Basel or choose to extend your stay. This is an opportunity to explore the city further, enjoy its museums, riverside walks, or cafés, or simply reflect on the journey through the heart of Alsace and beyond.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel Diana Dauphine (4-star)
Hôtel Diana Dauphine (4-star) is an elegant hotel located in the heart of Strasbourg, just a short walk from the cathedral and the picturesque La Petite France district. It offers modern, comfortable rooms with refined décor, free Wi-Fi, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Hotel Le Kastelberg
Hôtel Le Kastelberg is a charming hotel-restaurant nestled in the peaceful vineyards of Andlau, offering cozy, comfortable rooms with scenic views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Alsace.

Hôtel KLÉ (4-star)
Hôtel Klé, a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of historic Kaysersberg, offers a warm blend of traditional Alsatian charm and modern comfort with elegant rooms and attentive service.

Le Grand Hotel Bristol (4-star)
Elegant and comfortable hotel in the heart of Colmar, offering refined rooms, friendly service, and easy access to the city’s historic center and canals.

Le Bristol (4-star)
Le Bristol (4-star) in Mulhouse is a refined hotel located near the city center, offering comfortable rooms with elegant décor and modern amenities.

Hôtel La Villa K (4-star)
Hôtel La Villa K is a stylish four-star spa and restaurant hotel in Saint-Louis, offering a warm casual-chic atmosphere with modern comfort, wellness facilities, and attentive service.
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 $680
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
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
The tour begins in Strasbourg, a city that is exceptionally well connected by high-speed rail.
The most convenient way is to fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport and take a direct train to Strasbourg.
Direct TGV trains run from inside the airport to Strasbourg
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 to 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
From SXB airport, you can take 10-minute train ride to Strasbourg city center or taxi (~15 minutes) **Departure **
The tour ends in the Basel Eurodistrict, located at the meeting point of France, Germany, and Switzerland. Departures are easy and flexible thanks to excellent transport connections. Travelers can return home by train from Basel SBB (Switzerland), Saint-Louis (France), or Weil am Rhein (Germany), all offering frequent international and regional services. For air departures, Basel–Mulhouse–Freiburg EuroAirport (BSL) is the most convenient option, with quick transfers by bus or taxi. Guests departing by car will find easy access to major highways connecting to France, Germany, and Switzerland, making the return journey smooth and stress-free.
Weather
Alsace follows a well defined seasonal rhythm, with each period offering a distinct travel experience. From January to March, the region remains in the off season, with cold weather and a quiet atmosphere that limits cycling and outdoor activities but enhances its peaceful charm.
April signals the arrival of spring, with temperatures between 10°C and 18°C and landscapes slowly filling with color. May is especially pleasant, offering mild conditions ideal for sightseeing, vineyard walks, and cycling through the countryside.
June to August marks the best season to visit, with warm temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C and long, sunny days. This period is perfect for outdoor adventures, wine route exploration, and cultural discovery.
September returns to a comfortable and rewarding travel period. Temperatures remain pleasant, usually between 18°C and 25°C, while visitor numbers decrease. Vineyards come alive with harvest activity, offering some of the most picturesque views of the year..
October follows as a transitional month, where cooler days and autumn colors create a striking yet slightly unpredictable setting.
November and December return to the off season, bringing colder temperatures and a calm ambiance. While outdoor activities are limited, this period is ideal for enjoying historic towns, museums, and festive markets in a relaxed atmosphere.
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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