Independent travel and view of the city of Riqvir! History of the city of Ricvir Medieval origins The first me...
Sightseeing tours of the cities of France: Strasbourg, Saverne, Colmar, Mulhouse, Metz, Nancy, Ribeauville, Riquevir, Ae …
Medieval origins
The first mention of Riquira dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries, when the territory was part of the Holy Roman Empire.
The name of the city comes from the Latin Riquewihr, which roughly translates as “rich house” or “strong settlement”.
In the Middle Ages, Riqvir was a small trading settlement protected by fortress walls. Its advantageous location on the routes between Strasbourg and Basel facilitated trade in wine and crafts.
The era of prosperity
The 15th and 16th centuries were the Golden Age of Riquira.
The city became an important center of winemaking, especially the famous Alsatian Riesling.
Merchants and artisans built houses with characteristic alpine architecture, many of which have survived to the present day.
Stone gates and fortified walls provided protection against attacks, and the city market promoted crafts and trade.
Religious and political change
In the 16th century, Riqueer was at the center of the Reformation and religious wars in Alsace.
The city was predominantly Protestant, which influenced the architecture and urban structure (e.g. houses with spacious meeting rooms).
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Riqueer gradually came under French control after the Peace of Westphalia (1648), while maintaining a strong German influence in culture and language.
Modernity
In the XIX-XX centuries, Riqueer became the tourist center of Alsace.
Preserved medieval houses, narrow cobbled streets and wine cellars attract travelers.
The city actively participates in the wine culture of the region, offering tastings and wine festivals.
During the Second World War, Riqueer survived the occupation, but the historical center remained almost untouched.
Today, Riquevir is considered one of the most beautiful historical towns in France, often included in the routes of the "Wine Road of Alsace".
Riquevir is a living museum of medieval France. Narrow cobbled streets, neat half-timbered houses with carved beams and bright facades, flower windows and ancient city gates create the feeling that you were transported to several centuries ago.
Historical atmosphere
Almost the entire historical center of Riquira has been preserved since the XV-XVI centuries.
The city is surrounded by medieval walls and towers, including the famous Dolder Tower, which once served as a defensive point.
In Riquira, it is easy to imagine the atmosphere of a medieval trading city - artisans, markets, cozy squares.
Wine culture
Riqueer is part of the Alsace Wine Road, so there are many wine cellars, tasting halls and wine tours.
The legendary Alsatian Riesling, Pinot Grie and Gevürztraminer can be tried right in the ancient cellars of the city.
Tourists often come for wine excursions, combining them with walks through historical streets.
Festivals and events
Riquira hosts Christmas markets, which are considered one of the most picturesque in Alsace.
Summer wine and gastronomy festivals attract connoisseurs of local cuisine and traditions.
gastronomy
Here you can try Alsatian pies, tartiflett, flamecuchen (thin pizza in Alsatian) and homemade desserts with local wine and honey.
Restaurants and cafes are located in old houses with wooden beams, which creates a unique atmosphere.
Photogenicity
Narrow streets, flower windows, wooden facades and stone pavements make Riqueer ideal for photo walks and Instagram shots.
The city looks like a living fairy tale at any time of the year: in spring and summer - with bright flowers, in autumn - with golden vineyards, in winter - with Christmas illuminations.
Local shops and souvenirs
In Riquira there are many artel shops and souvenir shops where you can buy:
local wines and liquors;
cheese and sweets;
wood products and ceramics;
Unique Christmas decorations.
Riqvir is a small but incredibly cozy town and the choice of accommodation here reflects its historic charm. Here you can find luxury hotels, budget apartments, and family guest houses.
1. Luxury hotels and boutique apartments
Ideal for those who want to feel the atmosphere of Alsace at the highest level: coziness, service and stylish interiors of ancient houses.
Examples:
Hôtel Le Riquewihr is a hotel right in the heart of the city with modern comfort and an ancient atmosphere.
Relais & Châteaux Le Chambard is a chalet hotel in the vicinity, with a haute cuisine and spa restaurant.
Domaine La Cour Des Nobles – an apartment in historical style with a designer interior.
2. Comfortable apartments and guest houses
For tourists who love freedom and coziness: spacious apartments, the ability to cook on their own, the atmosphere is “like at home”.
Examples:
La Maison Bleue - apartments in the heart of the city overlooking the old streets.
Jeannala - apartment for a couple or family, very cozy and comfortable.
Gîtes les Bains are small holiday homes with traditional Alsatian interiors.
3. Budgetary options
For economical travelers or those who appreciate the simplicity and local flavor.
Bed & Breakfast (B&B) are breakfast guesthouses where hosts often share tips about the city and local wines.
Inexpensive apartments are small apartments in the center of Riquira, with convenient access to streets, restaurants and wine cellars.
1. Dolder Gate
Description: The main city tower of the XIV century, which served as both a fortification and a watchtower. Today there is a museum with an exposition about the medieval life of the city and ancient defense tools.
Why you should visit: The tower offers a picturesque view of the city and the surrounding vineyards.
Transport: Located in the historical center, all the streets of the city are walking, you can walk in 5-10 minutes from anywhere in the old city.
2. Half-timbered houses (Maisons à colombages)
Description: The main “business card” of Riquira is narrow streets with bright houses of the XV-XVI centuries. Many houses are decorated with wood carvings and flower windows.
Why you should visit: Photogenic facades, a sense of medieval atmosphere, the opportunity to look into the small shops and restaurants inside these houses.
Transport: By foot, as the entire historic center is compact.
3. Church of St. James (Eglise Saint-Jacques)
Description: The Gothic church with the organ of the XVIII century, is located on the central square.
Why you should visit: The interior is preserved in the style of the late Middle Ages, the church is often used for classical music concerts.
Transport: Walk through the historic streets of the city.
4. Wine cellars and tasting rooms
Ricqueer is part of the Alsace Wine Road, there are dozens of wine cellars with tastings of risling, pinot-gri, gevürztraminer.
Why you should visit: You can try the famous Alsatian wines and buy them directly from the producers.
Transport: Most cellars are within walking distance of the center. For trips to the vineyards outside Riquira, you can use a bicycle or excursion transport.
5. Market and Place Hôtel de Ville
Description: The central square of the city with the historic town hall building and souvenir shops.
Why you should visit: It hosts local fairs, festivals and a Christmas market, as well as cafes with terraces.
Transport: On foot, in the city center.
Transport accessibility
Inside the city:
Riqvir is a small medieval town, the entire historical center is pedestrian. Cars are almost unnecessary, the streets are narrow and paved.
Walking allows you to see all the main attractions.
To the city and surroundings:
Car: From Strasbourg - about 1.5 hours on the A35.
Public transport:
Trains to Colmar, then bus or taxi to Riqueer (about 20 minutes).
Alsace wine routes often offer guided tour buses that stop at Riqueira.
For trips to wine-growing villages:
Walking between the streets.
Bicycles and electric scooters are available for rent in the centre.
Buses and sightseeing tours link the region’s neighboring wine villages.
Christmas Market (Marché de Noël)
One of the most popular events: from late November to December, Riqueer is transformed into a magical Christmas village with festive lighting, wooden benches, crafts and a Christmas atmosphere.
In this market, live music often sounds, there are performances, concerts, street shows.
This is the perfect time to plunge into the Christmas atmosphere of Alsace, taste mulled wine and local sweets.
Feast of Riesling (Fête du Riesling)
Takes place in early-mid-September (for example, September 13-14, 2025).
This is a wine festival: tastings of various wines of Alsatian wineries, light food (“petite restauration”), a music program from the choir of local men.
A great opportunity to feel the wine and soul of Riquira and meet local winemakers.
Folk animations / folk festivals
In summer, especially in August, there are folklore evenings in Riquira: dancing in national costumes, music (accordion and folk melodies) right on the streets of the city.
It creates a very lively, traditional atmosphere of a medieval city.
Feast of the Minstrels ("Pfifferdaj")
Although Pfifferdaj itself is a festival in Ribeuville, it often flows into Riquevir or is perceived by tourists visiting the wine road.
It is an ancient festival associated with minstrels, music, costumes, parades and historical performances.
It usually takes place in early September and is accompanied by winemaking events - harvesting, tastings of new wine.
Summer evenings in Riquira (estivales/soirées barbecue)
During the summer months (July/August), barbecue evenings are arranged on Tuesdays: residents and tourists gather on the esplanade of the city walls, where music is played, taste wine, enjoy snacks.
Also associated with this is the “Hunafascht” (festival in nearby Hunavi), when wine evenings, tastings and musical performances take place in early August.
The Choir of Men's Choirs (Chœur d'hommes)
According to the Riquira Holiday Committee, in June there is a festival of men's choir - choral performances, musical concerts on the square.
This event gives the city the spirit of traditional culture and vocal heritage.
“Jeu de piste – Riquewihr et la Fontaine Magique”
Continuous animation: Tourists are invited to take part in a game-hunt for a “magic formula” that can turn water into wine.
The program is interesting for families, children and those who love the gaming routes and legends of the city.
1. Winter (December – February)
Air temperature: on average from -1°C to +6°C. At night, it can fall below -5 ° C.
Weather: cool, snow is possible, especially in January; days are short, but the Christmas atmosphere of the city makes winter very picturesque.
Water temperature: the water in the local rivers and fountains is cold, swimming is almost impossible.
Winter is the best time for Christmas markets and celebrations.
2. Spring (March-May)
Air temperature: in March about +8 ° C, by May it reaches +18 ° C.
Weather: gradually warms, the first flowers appear, vineyards come to life. There are many sunny days in spring, but rainy periods are possible.
Water temperature: about +10-15 ° C.
Features: the perfect time to walk around the old town and vineyards without the summer crowds of tourists.
3. Summer (June-August)
Air temperature: +20 ... +28 ° C, sometimes up to +30 ° C in July.
Weather: Sunny, little rain, long bright days.
Water temperature: local water bodies are about +18-22 ° C, swimming in rivers or pools can be comfortable.
Features: summer is a high tourist season; evening music events, tastings and festivals are held.
4. Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature: in September +18 ... +22 ° C, in November +5 ... +10°C.
Weather: cooler, especially in the evening; the leaves on the vineyards are gold and red - a picturesque atmosphere.
Water temperature: about +15°C.
Features: September is a time of wine festivals and harvest; a great time for quiet tourism and photo walks.
Language of communication
French
The main language of the region is French. In tourist places (restaurants, museums, wineries) most people speak French.
It is useful to know at least basic phrases: "Bonjour" (hello), "Merci" (thank you), "S'il vous plaît" (please) - this makes a good first impression.
Alsatian dialect / German influences
Alsace has historically had a strong Germanic cultural influence, and elements of the Alsatian dialect (of German origin) can still be found in the region.
Some residents (especially the older generation) can understand or speak German, but French is enough for tourists.
Traditions and customs
Wine culture
Riquir is located on the Alsace Wine Road, so wine tasting is an important part of the local culture.
There are "wine festivals", "gourmet walks" - walks through vineyards with stops for tastings.
On Pentecost (Pentecost) arrange a “picnic at the winemaker” – tourists can come with their lunch, and winemakers treat wine.
Knepfelfacht is a festival of national cuisine, where knepfel (in fact, spetsle - traditional dumplings) is served in combination with Alsatian wine.
Holidays and cultural events
In July, there is a procession with Venetian costumes: participants wear masks, gloves, fabric must cover the entire body to create a mysterious atmosphere.
National Day of France (July 14) is celebrated in the evening of the 13th: torchlight procession, performances, fireworks.
Christmas Market is a very traditional event, every winter the Riqueer turns into a Christmas fairy tale.
St. Nicholas Day (December 6) is an important holiday in Alsace: children are given sweets.
Hospitality and General Standards of Conduct
When visiting the wineries, be polite, respect the workers and locals.
If you arrange a joint picnic or barbecue (for example, in the summer), often use a large tablecloth, plates, glasses – it is important to look neat, this is part of the atmosphere.
In the historical part of the city (old streets, museums) it is important to maintain respect: do not make too much noise, do not litter, especially in the evening in narrow streets.
Kitchen and food
It is recommended to try traditional Alsatian dishes: for example, "green shukrut" (a special kind of sauerkraut) - it is served only in a few restaurants of Riquira.
It is often worth booking a table in advance, especially on holidays or weekends, as there are many tourists in restaurants.
Laws and regulations
Traffic and parking rules
In the old part of Riquira, cars are restricted or prohibited: during the Christmas market and during the tourist season, traffic in the historic center can be severely restricted.
You need to pay attention to parking signs - there are specially designated places for cars, buses and tourists.
Rules for visiting wineries
If you want to visit the winery, you may need to sign up for tastings or excursions, especially during peak periods.
Respect private property: vineyards are working land, and there may be restrictions on access.
Respect for cultural norms
Respect silence: Smaller villages are often calmer, especially in the evening.
When shooting buildings, interiors of houses - it is worth asking permission, especially if we are talking about private property (winehouses, houses).
Environmental responsibility
As a tourist, try to minimize your environmental footprint: do not leave garbage, use walking trails, dispose of waste correctly.
Support local businesses – buying wine, souvenirs, food from locals – is not only pleasant, but also important for the region’s economy.
1. Greetings and courtesy
Bonjour - Bonjour - Good afternoon
Bonsoir - Bonsoir - Good evening
Salut - Salu - Hello / Bye (unofficially)
Au revoir - oh rovoir - Goodbye
S'il vous plaît - siel woo ple - Please
Merci - Marcy - Thank you
Merci Beaucoup - Marcy Bogo - Thank you very much
Excusez-moi - Exuse Moi - Sorry / Sorry
Pardon - Pardon - Excuse me
2. Cafe and restaurant
Je voudrais... - What's the Woodree? - I'd like to...
L'addition, s'il vous plaît - ladission sil wo ple - bill, please
Un café, s'il vous plaît - en kafé siel wo ple - Coffee, please
Eau - oh - Water
Vin rouge / blanc - van rouge / blanc - red / white wine
Menu - menu - menu
Délicieux - delicie - Delicious
Sans gluten / végétarien - san gluten / vegetarian - gluten-free / vegetarian
3. In the store and the market
Combien ça coûte? - Combien sa cout? - How much does it cost?
C'est trop cher - Setro cher - It's too expensive
Je regarde seulement - the reegard of Solmã - I'm just looking.
Avez-vous...? - Avez-vous...? - Do you have...?
Une taille plus grande / petite - yun tai plus gran / petite - Size larger / smaller
4. Transport and orientation
Où est la gare? - Where's the station?
Je voudrais un billet pour Chamonix - jo wudre en bye pur Chamonix - I would like a ticket to Chamonix
À gauche/à droite - a gosh/a dart - Left/right
Tout droit - that drua - Straight
Combien de temps pour...? - Combien de temps pour...? - How long is it until...?
Arrêt - arre - Stopping
5. Emergency situations and assistance
Au secours! - Help me!
J'ai besoin d'un médecin - je bezois den medsã - I need a doctor.
Police - policy - Police
Je suis perdu(e) - je suis perdu(e) - I'm lost/lost
Où est l'hôpital? - Where's the hospital?
1. Unique products and delicacies
1. Alsace wines (the main “trophy” of Riquira)
Riquir is one of the capitals of the Alsace wine road. The main varieties that are considered the best here:
Riesling d’Alsace is mineral, dry, versatile.
Gewurztraminer - fragrant, sweet, with notes of rose and lychee.
Pinot Gris is saturated, slightly smoky.
Crémant d’Alsace is a local sparkling, similar to champagne but cheaper.
Vendanges Tardives is a late pick, rare and expensive dessert wine.
You can take mini-tasting sets of 3-6 bottles - convenient for gifts.
2. Munster (Munster AOP)
Brand Alsatian cheese with a rich aroma. Advice: for the road, it is better to take vacuum packaging - it smells very strong without it.
3. Alsatian sausages and smoked
Saucisse fumée - smoked sausage
Jambon fumé - smoked ham
Terrine de campagne - pate in ceramic forms
4. Choucroute - Alsatian sour cabbage
Sold in jars or glass jars, sometimes already cooked with meat. Feature: it is fermented, useful for digestion and rich in probiotics.
5. Alsace gingerbread (Pain d'épices)
Traditional gingerbread with spices, often decorated with bright patterns. Especially good during the Christmas season.
6. Confitures and syrups
Very popular local jams from:
quince
raspberries
blueberry
hibiscus
Rose petals and violets (especially rare!)
7. Miel d'Alsace - Alsatian Honey
Rosemary, lime, acacia, chestnut. Useful properties: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating.
2. Natural healing and cosmetics
1. Natural essential oils (Lavande, sapin, pin)
In the Vosges mountains, oils are produced from:
pine
fir
lavenders
mints
Needles.
Used for inhalation, massage and aromatherapy.
2. Savon d’Alsace is a natural soap
Goat milk, honey, lavender, grape seeds. Often sold in the form of hearts, cranes or a traditional house.
3. Creams and balms based on grape seeds
Antioxidants that help the skin after sun, frost and dry air. Often found in the form of oil Huile de pépins de raisin.
4. Syrups and liquors “for health”
Spruce kidney syrup (sirop de sapin) - helps with colds
raspberry liqueur and blackberries - a natural antioxidant
3. Unique souvenirs and craft items
1. Pottery d'Alsace (Pottery d'Alsace)
Very bright and recognizable:
blue, green, red.
flower-patterns
shapes: geese, hearts, birds
traditional forms for cookies “bretzel”
Perfectly suited as decorative dishes.
2. Plates and shapes for “Kugelhof” (Kougelhopf)
This is the form for the famous Alsatian kulich. Beautiful, painted, ceramic - one of the most popular souvenirs.
3. Alsacienne decor
Figures of girls in a traditional black bow are a symbol of Alsace. There are in the form of magnets, dolls, keychains, jewelry.
4. Wine accessories
traffic
leatherboard
glass-glass
mini-barrel
tasting
Local craftsmen make them by hand.
5. Christmas decorations (if traveling in winter)
Riqvir is known for one of the most beautiful Christmas markets. You can find:
handmade
candlestick
fragrance-house
woodwork
6. Weaving products
Alsace tablecloths with goose, sunflowers, hearts, wine vines. Very high quality, serving for decades.
1. Recreational safety in France (and Riqueira)
Riqvir is a small tourist town and is considered very safe. Highlights:
The most common problem is pickpockets in busy places and parking lots.
Do not leave things unattended in the cafe.
Avoid empty streets late at night.
If you go by car, put it in official parking at night.
In emergency situations, follow the instructions of local authorities – in France, the police work quickly and accurately.
2. What documents do tourists need?
Depends on nationality, but the general requirements are:
Must have:
Passport valid at least 3 months after the date of departure.
Return ticket or route plan.
Confirmation of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or call letter if you are with friends.
If you need a visa:
Short Schengen visa (usually for travel up to 90 days)
For a long stay – long-term visa (VLS-TS).
Finance:
Availability of sufficient funds - about 65-120 euros per day, depending on the conditions of the trip.
3. Insurance
Tourists need to:
Health insurance for at least 30,000 euros,
with coverage: ambulance, hospitalization, repatriation.
Insurance must be valid throughout the Schengen area.
4. Emergency numbers
It's very simple to remember:
112 – general dispatcher for any emergency (works throughout Europe).
15 ambulance.
17, police.
18 - Firefighters.
It is recommended to have these numbers recorded on the phone in advance.
5. Mobile communications
There are two options:
Use your SIM card
If your operator supports roaming in Europe, you can use your tariff.
Buying SIM in France
The most convenient operators: Orange, Bouygues Telecom, SFR.SIM can be bought at the airport, supermarkets, tobacco kiosks.
6. How many tourists can stay without leaving?
If you are travelling as a tourist and have a Schengen visa:
You can stay: 90 days in any period of 180 days.
I mean,
no more than 3 consecutive months,
Then you have to leave Schengen.
If you want to stay longer, you need a long-term visa or residence permit.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
