Renowned for its rich historical, cultural and gastronomic heritage, Alsace has a wealth of museums waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re an art and history lover or a science and nature enthusiast, Alsace’s museums will win you over with their varied collections and themes. Each museum in Alsace offers a unique insight into the different facets of Alsatian culture.
Discover the best Alsace Museums
Alsace Museums for art and history lovers
Here are our top museums for history and heritage lovers visiting Alsace:
The Museum Unterlinden, Alsace’s must-see museum
Located right in the heartof Colmar,the Musée Unterlinden is a must-see art and history museum. It is renowned for its extensive collection of paintings, sculptures and objets d’art dating from the Middle Ages tothe present day. Art lovers can discover masterpieces of European painting such as the Issenheim Altarpiece, as well as religious objects, furniture and decorative objects.
Before embarking on the tour proper, take time to admire the façade and the historic building. They are an attraction in themselves. Their fascinating architecture is a perfect blend of medieval and modern styles. Whether you’re an art lover or simply keen to learn more about the region’s history, a visit to the Musée Unterlinden is a must for all visitors to Colmar and Alsace.
Practical information:
Open every day from 9am to 6pm (except Wednesdays)
Address: Pl. des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar
The Alsace Ecomuseum
If you want to discover Alsace’s traditions and culture in an authentic, unspoilt setting, the Écomusée is the perfect place! Located in the south of Alsace in Ungersheim, this open-air museum will delight all those who are curious and keen on history. Here you can discover everyday life and the rural traditions of Alsace in days gone by. Through reconstructions of buildings, workshops and homes typical of the region, you can learn more about Alsatian know-how over the centuries. In addition to these permanent exhibitions, the Écomusée also offers temporary exhibitions such as basket-making workshops, Alsatian music concerts and traditional cooking classes. To get the most out of the experience, visit this museum in good weather and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Alsatian villages.
Practical information:
Open from April to November
rdi to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Address: Chemin du Grosswald, 68190 Ungersheim
The Alsatian Museum in Strasbourg
Nestled in charming old Strasbourg houses, the Musée Alsacien bears witness to Alsatian life of yesteryear. Since 1907, visitors have been able to discover period furniture, costumes, toys and domestic and agricultural objects. Thanks to reconstructions, visitors can discover the inside of a Stub (living room), a kitchen or an apothecary’s shop. Exploring varied themes such as housing, the different stages of daily life, beliefs and religions, as well as agricultural and wine production, the Musée Alsacien offers a unique immersion in popular arts and regional traditions, providing a captivating experience of local culture.
Practical information:
Open every day except Tuesday. From 10am to
1pm and 2pm to 6pm on weekdays, 10am to 6pm at weekends.
Address: 23-25 Quai Saint-Nicolas, 67000 Strasbourg
Discover Alsace Museums with the whole family
When visiting Alsace, it’s not always easy to find an activity that’s suitable for all the family. Here are our recommendations for museums in Alsace suitable for young and old:
Colmar Toy Museum
This museum devoted to traditional toys and games is sure to please children and their parents alike.
Founded in 1993 in the centre of Colmar, this museum houses a collection of over 60,000 toys and games from different countries and eras, from Antiquity to the present day. Dolls, miniature cars, trains, steam engines, board games and construction toys are just some of the treasures to be found in this family-friendly museum.
You can even be tempted by the unusual toys and games available for purchase in the shop at the end of the museum. In short, this museum is a must-see for the whole family during your stay in Alsace.
Practical information:
Open every day from 10am to 6pm, except 1 January, 1 May, 1 November and 25 December
Address: 40 Rue Vauban, 68000 Colmar
The butterfly garden
Located in Hunawihr, the Jardins des Papillons is a veritable paradise for lovers of nature, flowers and insects. During your visit, you can wander through a lush tropical garden and discover a unique butterfly greenhouse. The latter is packed with exotic specimens from Asia, Africa and South America. Whether you’re a nature lover, a keen photographer, or simply looking for a family activity, the Jardin des Papillons in Alsace is an essential stop-off point for discovering the beauty and magic of these delicate creatures.
Practical information:
Open from April to September
10am to 6pm, October to November 10am to 5pm
Address: Rte de Ribeauvillé, 68150 Hunawihr
Alsace Museums : our selection for those with a sweet tooth
Would you like to sample some of Alsace’s gastronomic highlights? Don’t miss these two museums, which will delight the taste buds of all gourmets:
The Choco-Story museum in Colmar
Does your passion for chocolate know no bounds? Then the Choco-story museum is the perfect place to indulge your sweet tooth! You’ll be amazed by the impressive chocolate sculptures, some of which are several metres high. You’ll also have the chance to take part in workshops where you can make your own chocolate, and even discover the work of the chocolatiers thanks to a virtual reality experience. What’s more, an audio guide will reveal the well-kept secrets of France’s greatest chocolatiers.
This immersion in the history of chocolate making will transport you through time, and you’ll be sure to succumb to this gourmet experience, to be savoured without moderation!
Practical information:
Open Monday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm
Address: 12 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar
The Alsace Wine Museum in Colmar
Would you like to explore and learn about the history of Alsatian wines? Then head to the Musée des Vins d’Alsace, ideally nestled in Colmar on the Place de la Cathédrale, close to the collegiate church of Saint-Martin!
During an informative tasting session, you’ll have the chance to discover the 8 AOC-labelled grape varieties that are emblematic of the Alsace region. But the surprises don’t stop there! Visitors of all ages can also immerse themselves in the history of the Wine Route, with maps and audio guides to suit everyone. This interactive tour will give you the chance to find out more about Alsatian wines.
From the winemaking process to bottling, this museum will transport you into the daily lives of the region’s winemakers. Among the original activities on offer, you can try your hand at creating your own bottle label, as well as taking part in interactive activities such as a bike ride through the vines or the traditional crushing of grapes.
This museum, which has become a real jewel in the crown of Colmar, is well worth a visit when you’re in town!
Practical information:
Open Monday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm
Address: 12 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar
