Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Village · Colmar, Grande Leste
Eguisheim
Village on the Rota dos Vinhos, 5 km from Colmar, built in concentric circles around a castle, birthplace of Pope Leão IX.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Eguisheim
Eguisheim is about 5 km southwest of Colmar, on gentle hills covered with vineyards. Its layout differs from other Alsatian villages: the streets form rings around the castle in the center, and you walk in a circle, returning to the starting point.
In the middle of the village is the Place du Château Saint-Léon, with the octagonal castle, the chapel and the fountain with the statue of Saint Leão IX. Bruno de Eguisheim, born there in 1002, became pope under the name Leão IX. The Rue du Rempart, which follows the old wall, is the most photographed, with colorful houses close together.
Eguisheim is considered one of the birthplaces of Alsace wine and has two vineyards classified as grand cru, the Eichberg and the Pfersigberg. Producers open caves (cellars) for tastings along the streets. The village is also on the list Plus Beaux Villages de France.
Because it is so close, Eguisheim is the easiest village to visit from Colmar, even by bicycle.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1h30 to 2 hours, with a tasting.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, with low light on the facades. Between May and October the windows are usually in bloom; in December there is Christmas decoration.
How to get there
By car, about 15 minutes from Colmar. There are regional buses and a cycle path leaving from Colmar; the train stops at Herrlisheim, which is further away. Check bus schedules beforehand.
Tip
Walk the full loop along the Rue du Rempart and then cut through to the castle square. For tastings, prefer producers’ cellars, where you learn about the region’s grapes.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Eguisheim
Why does Eguisheim have circular streets?
The village grew in rings around the central castle, and the streets follow the old walls.
Can you go from Colmar to Eguisheim by bike?
Yes, it's about 5 km, mostly flat, with a cycle path along part of the route.
Who was Pope Leo IX?
Bruno de Eguisheim, born in the village in 1002, was pope in the 11th century. The fountain in the central square has his statue.