It’s Official: This Charming, Fairytale European Village Has Been Ranked the Most Beautiful in the World

Ever dream of stepping into a real-life fairytale? Picture this: cobblestone streets full of stories, colorful houses that seem to whisper secrets, and a village that feels straight out of a Disney movie. That village exists, and it’s called Eguisheim.

Nestled in the heart of France’s Alsace region, Eguisheim is a place where time slows down. The charming, half-timbered houses are painted in bright, cheerful colors, with flower boxes spilling over with blooms.

Locals relax on cozy balconies, watching the world go by. You almost expect the townsfolk to start singing!

It’s no surprise Eguisheim is one of France’s most beautiful villages. It’s been named as such since 2003 and even won the title of “Favorite Village of the French” in 2013. Forbes recently listed it as one of the world’s most beautiful villages, and it’s easy to see why.

The Magic of Eguisheim: A Village Built in Circles

What makes Eguisheim so special? It’s all in the design. This village was carefully planned in three perfect concentric circles. At the very center stands a 13th-century octagonal castle, a timeless reminder of the village’s past.

Each ring of the village acted like a fortress, making it harder for invaders to reach the heart of the town. Attackers would have to get through three separate walls, giving the people inside enough time to retreat to the castle.

The main street, Rue du Rempart, traces the old defensive walls, and moats once filled with water added even more protection.

The design also made it easy for people to gather and interact, with everything they needed within walking distance. In a way, Eguisheim was ahead of its time, almost like an early version of the “15-minute city” idea.

Even more intriguing is the possibility that the village’s design had a cosmic purpose. Some believe the rings might align with the sun during solstices and equinoxes, suggesting the village could have been a giant calendar!

As you stroll through, you’ll also spot storks nesting on rooftops, especially around the castle and church. In local folklore, storks are symbols of good luck, fertility, and a bountiful harvest, adding yet another layer of enchantment to this already magical place.

Also See: 10 French Churches So Beautiful You’ll Whisper, “Seriously, How Is This Real?”

Planning Your Eguisheim Travel Adventure

Visiting this fairytale village is easier than you might think. Whether you’re planning a day trip or making it your base for exploring Alsace, getting to Eguisheim is simple. Here’s how to make it happen.

Getting There

From Colmar: This is by far the easiest and most popular route. Colmar, another charming Alsatian town, is only a 15-minute drive away. You can also take Bus 440, which takes about an hour. For a more scenic experience, rent a bike in Colmar and enjoy a 7 km ride along the Alsace Wine Route, passing by picturesque vineyards.

From Strasbourg: Traveling from Strasbourg is pretty straightforward, too. While you can take a train to Colmar and then a bus, there’s a quicker option. Direct trains take you to Colmar in just 27 to 31 minutes, with multiple trains running every day.

From Paris: If you’re coming from Paris, it takes a bit more planning. The fastest way is by train, which takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes, though you’ll usually need to change trains. Alternatively, you can take a bus, but be prepared for a much longer journey, nearly 8 hours.

Read: 15 Magical Things to Do in Paris With Kids (They’ll Talk About for Ages)

Where to Stay

Eguisheim offers plenty of great places to stay, no matter what kind of trip you’re planning.

For a Luxury Spa Retreat: Check out Hotel Spa Husseren Collections. Just outside the village center, this place is tucked away in lush forests, offering a peaceful escape. The sunlit suites are perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

For Vineyard Views: The James Vignoble Hotel Eguisheim is a fantastic pick. This charming three-star hotel has a pool and spacious rooms, plus stunning views of the vineyards and gardens surrounding it.

For Historic Charm: Stay at The Originals Boutique, Hôtel La Ferme du Pape, a former winery full of character. Guests love its cozy, authentic vibe and its prime location, making it a great choice for history lovers.

For Being in the Heart of the Village: Hostellerie du Château is right on the main square, putting you in the middle of all the action. You’ll be just steps from the village’s charm, with everything right outside your door.

Wandering Through an Enchanting French Village: Key Sights

The best way to explore Eguisheim is to let yourself get lost. Ditch the map and follow the winding cobblestone paths. Each turn reveals something new and magical in this charming village, so take your time and soak it all in.

Place du Château Saint-Léon

Your adventure in Eguisheim will likely start at the heart of the village: the Place du Château Saint-Léon. This lively square is a perfect spot to take in the village’s charm.

In the center, you’ll find a beautiful Renaissance fountain from 1557, surrounded by flowers, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the atmosphere. Overlooking the square is the historic Château de Saint-Léon-Pfalz, which dates back to the 8th century. It was even the birthplace of Pope Leo IX.

While the castle is mostly used for private events, the Saint Leo Chapel inside is open to visitors. Make sure to step inside and admire the stunning stained-glass windows and the intricate ceiling, all telling the story of the pope’s life.

Église Saints-Pierre-et-Paul

Just a short walk from the square is Église Saints-Pierre-et-Paul, a church with a striking 13th-century clock tower. Inside, you’ll discover a unique treasure: the Vierge Ouvrante (Opening Virgin), a rare wooden statue from the 13th or 14th century. It opens to reveal scenes inside, and it’s one of only two statues like it in all of Alsace. It’s a true hidden gem!

If you visit during the holiday season, this area becomes even more magical. The square hosts a cozy Christmas market where you can sip mulled wine, enjoy local treats, and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Also Read: From Castles to Cathedrals: 16 UNESCO World Heritage Gems in France You’ll Regret Skipping

A Royal Quest: The Hike to the Three Castles

For those up for a bit of adventure, there’s a rewarding hike that takes you high above Eguisheim to the Three Castles. These romantic pink sandstone ruins, built in the 11th and 12th centuries, are all that’s left of once-mighty fortresses. Only the dungeon walls remain standing, towering against the sky.

The castles are also steeped in local legend. Known as “The Three Witches” (Die drei Hexe), they’re linked to a tale of the devil falling in love with a witch’s daughter and marrying her in one of the castles. Hiking to the ruins almost feels like stepping into this old-world story.

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, though. The 8.1-mile (13 km) loop has a challenging 1,250-foot elevation gain, so it’s rated as hard. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

But the effort is well worth it: once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Eguisheim, the vineyards, and the Alsace plain. On the way back, stop at the Panorama du Litweg for even more stunning vistas!

The Taste of Alsace Part I: A Journey Through Eguisheim’s Wineries

Eguisheim is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Alsatian vineyard and is a must-visit stop on the famed Alsace Wine Route. Here, wine is part of the village’s soul. If you’re in Eguisheim, a wine tasting is a must. The village is home to two Grand Cru vineyards, Eichberg and Pfersigberg, both producing world-class wines.

You’ll find a lovely mix of wineries to explore, from historic family-run estates to modern, innovative wine producers. It’s a perfect way to dive into the local culture and enjoy some of the best wines the region has to offer.

Other fantastic wineries to visit include Haeffelin Daniel et Fils, Vins Albert Hertz, and Domaine Antoine Stoffel.

The Taste of Alsace Part II: A Guide to Local Dining

No visit to Eguisheim is complete without diving into the delicious local cuisine. Alsatian food is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Be sure to try some regional classics like Choucroute Garnie (sauerkraut served with sausages and meats), Tarte Flambée (a crispy flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon), and Coq au Riesling (chicken cooked in white wine). This guide will help you navigate the best spots for a true taste of Alsace during your Eguisheim adventure.

Your Story is Waiting in This Enchanting French Village

Eguisheim is a place with a real sense of soul. Its unique circular streets, colorful houses, and rich history come together to offer an unforgettable experience. You can spend your days hiking to legendary castles, sipping world-class wines, and enjoying hearty Alsatian meals in the evening.

And if you’re up for more adventure, the nearby village of Riquewihr is just waiting to be explored. It’s the inspiration behind the village in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

So, what are you waiting for? Your next adventure is ready to begin in this magical corner of France!