Mulhouse

The Tour du Belvédère is an approximately 20-meter-high metal observation tower, built in 1898 according to plans by Philippe Antoine Fauler. It stands on the hill south of the city at the edge of the fir forest and is accessible via a short walk. A staircase leads you to the platform, from which you look out over Mulhouse and, with clear visibility, see the Vosges, the Black Forest, and the Jura.Our tip: Choose a day with good long-distance visibility; in the morning, it's usually quiet here.

The Historical Museum, housed in Mulhouse's former city hall, is a central starting point for exploring the city's rich history. The building itself, a splendid example of the Rhenish Renaissance, was erected in the 16th century and long served as the seat of government for the former Free Republic of Mulhouse. Its colorful facade, adorned with impressive trompe-l'œil paintings, already tells stories of past eras from the outside and is an architectural highlight. Inside the museum, you'll delve deep into Mulhouse's development. The exhibitions present a diverse collection of artifacts, ranging from medieval city history and its flourishing period as a textile metropolis to local traditions. Here, you'll find exhibits that illuminate the city's political, social, and economic life across centuries. Pay special attention to the detailed depictions of city life and the testimonies of the Industrial Revolution, which significantly shaped Mulhouse. Our tip: To view the exhibits at your leisure and appreciate the interior architecture, a morning visit is recommended. For impressive photos of the facade and the entire ensemble, Place de la Réunion is the ideal vantage point.

The Temple Saint-Étienne on Place de la Réunion is a landmark of Mulhouse. This Neo-Gothic building was constructed between 1859 and 1866 on the site of a medieval predecessor church, its spire dominating the Old Town. Inside, the stained-glass windows are particularly noteworthy: Some parts date back to the 14th century and were transferred from the old church. Saint-Étienne is the city's main Protestant church.Our tip: The windows are best appreciated in the morning. Visits are possible outside of service hours.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Mulhouse, housed in an elegant former city palace, offers you a deep insight into the art history of the region and beyond. Since its founding in the late 19th century, it has collected and presented works that reflect the cultural development of Alsace. Here you will find a diverse collection of paintings and sculptures, mainly from the 19th and early 20th centuries, complemented by some older masterpieces. Particularly noteworthy are the works by regional artists, often depicting local landscapes and portraits. The museum's calm atmosphere allows you to view the exhibits at your leisure. Our Tip: Visit the museum in the morning to explore the collections in a relaxed atmosphere and appreciate the often impressive architecture of the building itself. For a special detail, pay attention to the fine carvings and stucco work inside the palace, which are often overlooked.