7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Strasbourg

Strasbourg, the charming capital of the Alsace region in France, is not only a hub for European politics and culture but also a fantastic base for digital nomads looking to explore the surrounding areas. With its unique blend of French and German influences, Strasbourg offers a rich cultural tapestry that extends to its nearby destinations. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the region around Strasbourg is replete with options that cater to every taste. Here are seven destinations that promise to make your weekends as enriching as your workdays.

Colmar

Just a short train ride away from Strasbourg lies Colmar, a picturesque town often referred to as "Little Venice" due to its network of canals. Colmar is a quintessential Alsatian destination, with its well-preserved old town, colorful half-timbered houses, and the Unterlinden Museum, which houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, take a boat ride on the canals, or explore the local markets and wine bars.

How to Get There: Colmar is easily accessible by train from Strasbourg, with a journey time of about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local Alsatian wines, particularly the Riesling and Gewürztraminer, which are celebrated in this region.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the charming "La Maison des Têtes" for its historic ambiance or "Hotel Le Colombier" for its modern comforts and proximity to the old town.

Where to Eat: "Wistub Brenner" is a cozy spot known for its traditional Alsatian dishes, such as tarte flambée and choucroute garnie.

Baden-Baden, Germany

Cross the border into Germany and discover the spa town of Baden-Baden. Renowned for its thermal baths, Baden-Baden offers a luxurious escape with its opulent spas, such as the Caracalla Spa and the historic Roman-Irish Friedrichsbad. Beyond relaxation, the town also boasts beautiful parks, the Baden-Baden Casino, and the Festspielhaus, one of Europe's largest opera houses.

How to Get There: Baden-Baden is about an hour and a half drive from Strasbourg or a similar duration by train with a change in Appenweier.

Travel Tip: Take a hike up to the old castle ruins of Hohenbaden for a panoramic view of the town and the Black Forest.

Where to Stay: The luxurious "Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa" offers an exceptional stay with its own private park and spa facilities.

Where to Eat: "Le Jardin de France" is a fine dining experience that offers exquisite French cuisine with a modern twist.

Nancy, France

Nancy, a city known for its impressive Stanislas Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a hidden gem in the Lorraine region. The city's vibrant cultural scene is complemented by its Art Nouveau architecture, most notably seen in the works of Émile Gallé. The Musée de l'École de Nancy showcases some of the finest examples of this artistic movement.

How to Get There: Nancy is approximately 1.5 hours from Strasbourg by train.

Travel Tip: Visit the Place Stanislas at night to see the magnificent light display that illuminates the square's grand architecture.

Where to Stay: "Hotel d'Haussonville" is a boutique hotel set in a 16th-century mansion, offering a unique historical experience.

Where to Eat: "La Maison dans le Parc" is a Michelin-starred restaurant where you can indulge in gourmet French cuisine in an elegant setting.

Mont Sainte-Odile

For a spiritual retreat, visit Mont Sainte-Odile, a historic monastery perched atop the Vosges Mountains. This serene location offers breathtaking views, peaceful walking trails, and the mysterious "Pagan Wall" that encircles the mountain. It's a perfect spot for contemplation, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Alsace region.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Mont Sainte-Odile is by car, which takes about 40 minutes from Strasbourg.

Travel Tip: Explore the nearby "Pagan Wall," an ancient structure whose origins and purpose remain a mystery to this day.

Where to Stay: Stay at the "Hôtel Mont Sainte-Odile" for convenient access to the monastery and its surrounding trails.

Where to Eat: The monastery's own "Restaurant La Stub" offers traditional Alsatian cuisine with a view of the sweeping landscape.

Sélestat

Sélestat is an often-overlooked town that boasts a rich history and a central role in the humanist movement. The Bibliothèque Humaniste, a library founded in the 15th century, contains a treasure trove of medieval manuscripts and early printed books. Sélestat is also known for its beautiful churches, such as the Gothic St. George's Church and the Romanesque St. Faith's Church.

How to Get There: Sélestat is a quick 20-minute train ride from Strasbourg.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in August, don't miss the "Corso Fleuri," an annual flower parade that fills the streets with color and creativity.

Where to Stay: "Les Prés d'Ondine" offers a charming and tranquil stay along the Ill River, just outside Sélestat.

Where to Eat: "Auberge de la Chèvrerie" serves up delicious local dishes in a rustic setting, complete with a view of the Vosges foothills.

Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg, voted "France's Favorite Village" in 2017, is a medieval town that captures the essence of Alsace with its vineyards, half-timbered houses, and a castle ruin overlooking the town. It's a quieter alternative to the more touristy Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé, offering a more authentic Alsatian experience. The town is also the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

How to Get There: The journey to Kaysersberg from Strasbourg involves a train to Colmar followed by a short bus ride, totaling around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Kaysersberg Christmas market if you're there during the festive season; it's one of the most traditional and charming in the region.

Where to Stay: "Chambard" is a luxury hotel that also houses a Michelin-starred restaurant, offering a delightful gastronomic experience.

Where to Eat: "Winstub du Chambard" offers a cozy atmosphere and serves hearty Alsatian classics, perfect after a day of exploring.

Saverne

Saverne is a small town that often goes unnoticed by tourists, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a quiet weekend. The town's highlights include the impressive Rohan Castle, the Rose Garden, and the nearby Haut-Barr Castle, which is perched on a rocky spur and offers stunning views of the surrounding plains. Saverne's tranquil marina along the Rhine-Marne canal is perfect for an evening stroll.

How to Get There: Saverne is about 45 minutes from Strasbourg by train.

Travel Tip: For a unique experience, rent a boat and explore the Rhine-Marne canal at your own pace.

Where to Stay: "Villa Katz" offers a luxurious stay with its spa facilities and elegant rooms, some with views of the castle.

Where to Eat: "Taverne Katz" is a local favorite, known for its generous portions of Alsatian specialties and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich the lives of digital nomads living in Strasbourg. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in history, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply relax in a picturesque setting, there's a weekend getaway waiting for you just a short journey away.