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    Obernai

    France

    Obernai

    CityCultureCulinaryNature

    Obernai, at the foot of the Vosges, lies about 30 km southwest of Strasbourg. It was an Imperial City and member of the Decapole.

    by Felix Gillen

    1. Home
    3. Destinations
    5. France
    7. Alsace
    9. Obernai
    Obernai, at the foot of the Vosges, lies about 30 km southwest of Strasbourg. It was an Imperial City and member of the Decapole. Its old town boasts half-timbered houses, the 1523 Town Hall, Chapel Tower, Six-Bucket Fountain, and preserved city walls. Enjoy Alsatian cuisine in Winstubs; vineyards are just steps away.

    Sights in Obernai

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    1Mont Sainte-Odile

    As a sacred mountain and pilgrimage site, Mont Sainte-Odile rises majestically above the Alsatian plain. Once at the top, you'll find an impressive monastery, a rich history, and, above all, breathtaking panoramic views extending far over the Rhine Valley – an absolute must for every visitor.
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    2Hôtel de Ville & Kappelturm

    In the heart of the Old Town, you'll find the magnificent Town Hall, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture that impresses with its richly adorned facades. Right next to it stands the Kappel Tower, the city's former watchtower, from whose summit you can enjoy a wonderful view over Obernai's rooftops.
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    3Puits à six seaux (Brunnen der sechs Eimer)

    This unique Renaissance fountain is a true landmark of Obernai and will fascinate you with its intricate design. It tells the story of the city and is a popular meeting point to soak in the atmosphere of the historic center.
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    4Place du Marché & Kirche Saints Pierre et Paul

    The lively market square is the vibrant heart of Obernai and is lined with beautiful half-timbered houses that invite you to linger. Directly adjacent rises the imposing Church of Saints Pierre et Paul, whose magnificent interior you should definitely explore to admire the ornate stained-glass windows and the impressive architecture.
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    Carnaval vénitien

    5Carnaval vénitien

    The Carnaval vénitien takes place in the nearby town of Rosheim, a few kilometres north of Obernai. Once a year, masked figures in elaborate, often self-made costumes in the style of the Venetian Carnival, stroll through the old town and pose for photos. It is not a traditional Alsatian custom, but rather a homage to Venice.Our tip: You can find out the exact date from the tourist office. In the afternoon, most mask-wearers are out and about.
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    6

    The Place du Marché has been the heart of Obernai for centuries. Surrounding the square are half-timbered houses, the Halle aux Blés from 1554 with its high roof, the Gothic-Renaissance Rathaus from 1523 with its bay window and balustrade, and the approximately 60-meter-high Kapellturm, the remains of a 13th-century chapel, which received its uppermost floor in the 17th century. In the center stands the Odilienbrunnen.A few steps away stands the Neo-Gothic Kirche Saints-Pierre-et-Paul from the 19th century, one of the largest churches in Alsace after Strasbourg Cathedral. Inside, the stained-glass windows are a highlight.Our Tip: Early in the morning, the square is still quiet. On Thursday mornings, the weekly market takes place here.
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    City walks in Obernai

    Curated walking tours through the city's highlights, handpicked by experienced travel journalists.

    Obernai and Its Wine: A Walk Through the Vineyards

    Discover the picturesque wine landscape around Obernai. This walk leads you through idyllic vine-covered slopes, teaches you about Alsatian winemaking and offers breathtaking views of the town and the Rhine plain. Experience the nature and wine culture that shape Obernai, a substantially different experience from exploring the historic old town.

    ~2 Std.
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    Stops (7)

    Restaurants & Cafes

    La Halle aux Blés

    Located in a historic building, this restaurant serves authentic Alsatian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Be sure to try the Flammkuchen or a hearty Choucroute garnie to experience the traditional flavours of the region – a true culinary highlight.
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    L'Agneau d'Or

    This charming Winstub is known for its warm hospitality and an excellent selection of Alsatian specialties. Here you can enjoy regional dishes like Coq au Riesling or Baeckeoffe in a traditional atmosphere, accompanied by a glass of local wine.
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    Pâtisserie Engel

    For a sweet finish or a cozy coffee break, Pâtisserie Engel is the ideal spot. Here you'll discover an exquisite selection of French and Alsatian pastry specialties, fresh cakes, and delicious pralines, which you can enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere.
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    QUI DIT VIN

    Bar in 22 Pl. du Marché.
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    La Fourchette des Ducs - Restaurant Obernai Alsace

    Restaurant in 6 Rue de la Gare.
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    Food and Drink

    Obernai is located on the northern section of the Wine Route and is home to a large brewery. Wine and beer hold equal standing here.

    Alsatian Wines

    On the slopes around Obernai grow Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer; the nearest Grand Cru area is the Kirchberg in neighboring Barr. Several estates in the town offer tastings.

    Alsace Beer

    The Alsace is France's most important beer region. Kronenbourg's large brewery has been in Obernai since 1969; it is not open to visitors.

    Winstub food

    Choucroute, Flammkuchen, and Baeckeoffe are served in the guesthouses around the marketplace. Lunch menus are usually significantly cheaper.

    Local market

    The market on Thursday morning on the Place du Marché gathers producers from the surrounding area and is firmly established among locals.

    Culture, Art & History in Obernai

    Obernai (German: Oberehnheim) has a long history linked to Saint Odilia, the patron saint of Alsace. In the Middle Ages, the city became an Imperial City and, from 1354, was part of the League of Ten Cities, the Decapolis. This period of prosperity is still evident today in its well-preserved old town.The cityscape is characterized by half-timbered houses from the 15th to 17th centuries, the Town Hall from 1523, the Halle aux Blés from 1554, the Chapel Tower, a remnant of a 13th-century chapel, and sections of the medieval city fortifications. Culturally, Obernai is deeply rooted in Alsatian traditions, visible in its cuisine, dialect, and wine festivals. Since 1969, Kronenbourg's main brewery has been located on the outskirts of the town.

    Out and About Locally

    In Obernai, the best way to explore the historic centre and its sights is on foot. For trips into the surrounding area and the nearby vineyards, a bicycle or rental car is recommended. The city is also well-connected to the regional train and bus network, with links to Strasbourg and other towns in Alsace.

    Accommodations in Obernai

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    Campgrounds in Obernai

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      Sunrise over alpine peaks and a sea of clouds
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      Trip to Obernai

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      • 1Mont Sainte-Odile3 days
      • 2Hôtel de Ville & Kappelturm4 days
      • 3Puits à six seaux (Brunnen der sechs Eimer)5 days
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    Nearby

    Alsace

    Alsace

    The Alsace region in eastern France, nestled between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine, borders Germany. It blends French and German influences and is famed for its vineyards, half-timbered wine villages, cities like Strasbourg and Colmar, and a rich, eventful history.Also noteworthy are its hearty regional cuisine, white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer, and castles bordering the Vosges.
    Strasbourg

    Strasbourg

    Strasbourg is the largest city in Alsace and home to European institutions. Its landmark is the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame with its astronomical clock. The La Petite France district, with its half-timbered houses, alleys, and canals of the Ill, is part of the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988. From the Ponts Couverts and the rooftop terrace of the Barrage Vauban, you look out over the city and the Ill. The European Parliament and the Council of Europe are located in the European Quarter. It's less crowded in spring and autumn. You can enjoy Alsatian cuisine in traditional Winstubs.
    Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

    Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg

    The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, the High Königsburg, stands at about 750 meters on a mountain spur of the Vosges overlooking the Rhine plain. The castle was first mentioned in 1147, rebuilt in the 15th century, and destroyed in 1633 during the Thirty Years' War. Between 1900 and 1908, Kaiser Wilhelm II had it rebuilt by architect Bodo Ebhardt. You can visit furnished rooms such as the Emperor's Hall, the Armory, and the living quarters, plus the keep, courtyards, and battlements with views over the plain to the Black Forest. It is quieter in the morning or late afternoon.
    The Alsace Wine Route

    The Alsace Wine Route

    France’s oldest wine route winds through picturesque villages, past endless vineyards, and offers tastings of famous Alsatian wines.
    Ribeauvillé

    Ribeauvillé

    Ribeauvillé is a small town on the Alsace Wine Route, about 15 kilometers north of Colmar. Along the Grand'Rue stand half-timbered houses, fountains, and the Butcher's Tower; above the vineyards are the ruins of three castles belonging to the Lords of Rappoltstein. The town is also known for its Pfeifertag (Piper's Day) in September and the surrounding Grand Cru vineyards.

    Sources & method

    • Photos: Unsplash. Each photo carries its credit.
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