Complete Guide to Grand Est & Alsace (2025)

Grand Est, which includes the historical region of Alsace, is a culturally rich and geographically diverse area in eastern France that borders Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Switzerland. This cross-border positioning has given the region a unique identity, blending French and Germanic influences in its architecture, cuisine, language, and traditions. Grand Est encompasses rolling vineyards, forests, river plains, and the Vosges mountains, making it ideal for both cultural exploration and nature tourism.

Alsace, a key part of the Grand Est region, is famous for its picturesque villages with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and flower-laden balconies. Towns like Strasbourg and Colmar are renowned for their fairy-tale beauty, Christmas markets, and strong regional identity. Strasbourg also plays a significant international role as the seat of the European Parliament. The Alsatian Wine Route draws visitors through scenic vineyards and charming wine towns such as Riquewihr and Eguisheim, with a focus on white varietals like Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

The broader Grand Est region includes Champagne, Lorraine, and Ardennes, each with its own character. Reims and Épernay are the heart of Champagne production, while Metz and Nancy offer impressive Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. The region also carries the weight of European history—Verdun is a major site of WWI memory, and fortified towns and castles still dot the landscape. Together, Grand Est and Alsace present a blend of elegance, resilience, and cultural richness that reflects centuries of both unity and borderland complexity.

Cities of Grand Est & Alsace

Reims

Reims is a vibrant city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, celebrated for its deep connections to Champagne production and its impressive Gothic architecture. Nestled amidst rolling vineyards, Reims serves as the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing area, and many visitors come to tour the renowned Champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery. Cellar tours and tastings are a highlight, offering a glimpse into centuries-old winemaking traditions that remain central to the city’s identity.

A visit to Reims is also a feast for lovers of architecture and culture. The towering Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic art, famed for its stained glass and intricate sculptures. Just nearby, the Palace of Tau and the Saint-Remi Basilica add further grandeur to the cityscape. Beyond these highlights, Reims features wide boulevards, elegant squares, and a growing collection of museums and galleries. Cafés and bistros line the pedestrian streets, making the city both accessible and inviting for a relaxed stroll.

Despite its refined atmosphere, Reims is also a lively university city with a youthful energy. It offers a balance between tradition and modern life, with regular cultural events, lively food markets, and a dynamic dining scene. Thanks to its position on high-speed rail lines, Reims is just 45 minutes from Paris by TGV, making it an easy day trip or a convenient base for exploring the Champagne region and nearby parts of the Grand Est.

TIP: If you are visiting Reims for just a day and want to make the most of your visit, you may want to consider taking a walking tour with a local guide.
This is one of the most complete and best-rated guided tours of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Reims in about 1.5 hours.
If you prefer exploring at your own pace read our blog on Top Places to visit in Reims!.

View our Reims Guide

Historic Tour of Reims (With Maps!)

The Champagne Houses of Reims: A Sparkling Experience!

Top Places to Visit in Reims!

Colmar

Visiting Colmar feels like stepping into a storybook, with its cobblestone streets and charming half-timbered houses. The town’s picturesque canals and flower-lined bridges create an inviting atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. Whether you’re exploring the colorful Little Venice area, admiring the scenic beauty of the old town, or enjoying the vibrant marketplace, there is no shortage of delightful places to discover. Colmar is also home to a number of excellent museums and galleries, showcasing its rich cultural heritage in a relaxed, easy-to-explore environment.

For those who love wine and gastronomy, Colmar is ideally located along the Alsace Wine Route. It’s a great base for touring the surrounding vineyards and sampling some of the region’s best wines, particularly the renowned white wines of Alsace. The town itself also offers an impressive selection of dining options, ranging from casual bistros to fine dining restaurants, where you can enjoy local dishes like tarte flambée or choucroute. Whether you’re a foodie, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys scenic beauty, Colmar offers a perfect getaway.

View our Colmar Guide

Nancy

Nancy, nestled in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, is a city that surprises visitors with its elegance and creative flair. It’s best known for its stunning architecture and artistic vibe, where ornate buildings and leafy boulevards set the tone for a laid-back but visually rich experience. Whether you’re strolling through manicured gardens or sipping coffee in a sunlit square, Nancy offers a charming balance of culture and calm.

The city has a youthful energy thanks to its university scene, yet it also feels refined with its strong ties to the arts and design. Nancy is especially walkable, with beautiful sights popping up around nearly every corner—making it easy to explore without a strict itinerary. It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, cuisine, and a relaxed pace in a distinctly French setting.

View our Nancy Guide

Strasbourg

Strasbourg offers visitors a delightful blend of French and German influences, creating an atmosphere that is both charming and distinctly unique. Travelers can leisurely explore the picturesque half-timbered houses lining its canals, stroll along narrow cobblestone streets, and discover inviting cafés and boutiques throughout the city’s historic center. Highlights include the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral, vibrant local markets, and scenic boat rides through the city’s canals.

Additionally, Strasbourg is celebrated as a culinary destination, offering authentic Alsatian cuisine that includes hearty dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute garnie. The city also hosts one of Europe’s most beloved Christmas markets, transforming into a magical winter wonderland during the festive season. With its welcoming ambiance, captivating architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Strasbourg remains a rewarding destination in the Grand Est region of France.

View our Strasbourg Guide

Metz

Metz is a vibrant city located in northeastern France, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture of the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in France, and take a walk around the city’s many parks and gardens. The Centre Pompidou-Metz, a branch of the famous Parisian museum, offers a wide range of contemporary art exhibitions that attract culture enthusiasts from around the world.

For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Metz offers plenty of outdoor spaces, including the peaceful Parc de la Seille and the Esplanade Park, which are perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. The city’s proximity to the Moselle River also makes it ideal for boat tours or enjoying riverside dining. Whether exploring the historic old town, enjoying the local cuisine, or visiting art galleries, Metz provides a diverse and enriching experience for all types of travelers.

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History of Grand Est & Alsace

Prehistoric Grand Est & Alsace

The history of Grand Est & Alsace begins in prehistoric times with early human settlements dating back to the Paleolithic era. Archaeological finds in the Rhine valley reveal long-standing habitation, including burial mounds and tools. During the Bronze and Iron Ages, Celtic tribes such as the Mediomatrici and Treveri established fortified settlements across the region.

Roman Grand Est & Alsace

Under Roman rule, Grand Est & Alsace became part of the province of Germania Superior. Cities like Argentoratum (Strasbourg) and Divodurum (Metz) flourished as military and trade hubs. The region was crisscrossed by Roman roads, and Roman architecture, baths, and temples shaped urban development. Latin language and Roman customs influenced the local population.

Early Medieval Grand Est & Alsace

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Grand Est & Alsace experienced invasions by Germanic tribes, notably the Alemanni and later the Franks. The region became part of the Frankish Kingdom and later the Carolingian Empire. Religious centers such as the Abbey of Luxeuil and Strasbourg Cathedral played a central role in early medieval life. After the Treaty of Verdun in 843, the area was placed in the middle kingdom of Lotharingia, sparking centuries of shifting allegiances.

Holy Roman Empire and Feudal Grand Est & Alsace

From the 10th century onward, Grand Est & Alsace became part of the Holy Roman Empire. Numerous cities gained autonomy as free imperial cities, including Strasbourg and Colmar. This era saw the rise of castles, monasteries, and vineyards, as well as the expansion of the Alsatian identity. Feudal conflicts, territorial fragmentation, and religious tensions defined the late medieval period.

Reformation and Conflicts in Grand Est & Alsace

In the 16th century, the Protestant Reformation had a major impact, particularly in Strasbourg and other Alsatian towns. The region became a focal point for religious transformation and conflict. The Thirty Years’ War (1618–1648) devastated many parts of Grand Est & Alsace, leading to depopulation, economic collapse, and shifting control between Catholic and Protestant forces.

French Annexation of Grand Est & Alsace

Following the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, parts of Alsace were annexed by France under Louis XIV. Over the next century, most of the region gradually came under full French control, though it retained cultural and linguistic ties to the Germanic world. French influence expanded through administration, military presence, and Catholic consolidation.

German Empire and Franco-Prussian War Era in Grand Est & Alsace

After France’s defeat in the Franco-Prussian War in 1871, Alsace and much of Grand Est were annexed by the German Empire. The region experienced rapid Germanization efforts, while local identity was caught between French and German influences. Resistance to German rule coexisted with economic development under the empire. This period deeply shaped the bilingual and bicultural character of the region.

World War I and Return to France in Grand Est & Alsace

At the end of World War I, Grand Est & Alsace returned to French control under the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. The reintegration process involved reestablishing French institutions and language, but regional identity remained complex. The interwar period saw political unrest and a tug-of-war between nationalist sentiment and cultural preservation.

World War II and German Occupation in Grand Est & Alsace

During World War II, Grand Est & Alsace was once again annexed by Nazi Germany. Local people were forcibly conscripted into the German army in a policy known as “Malgré-nous.” The region suffered under occupation, with repression, deportations, and widespread trauma. It was liberated by Allied forces in 1944–1945.

Postwar Grand Est & Alsace and European Identity

After the war, Grand Est & Alsace became a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation. Strasbourg emerged as a European capital, hosting institutions such as the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. Economic growth, cultural renewal, and cross-border cooperation reshaped the region in the late 20th century.

Contemporary Grand Est & Alsace

In recent decades, Grand Est & Alsace has embraced its dual heritage and strategic role in Europe. The creation of the Grand Est administrative region in 2016 merged Alsace with Lorraine and Champagne-Ardenne. Efforts continue to preserve Alsatian language and traditions, while modern industries, tourism, and European diplomacy define the region’s contemporary identity.