Just 30 km from Strasbourg, Haguenau Seduced by its heritage and natural setting. A former imperial city, it reveals medieval towers, churches and beautiful squares perfect for strolling.
Surrounded by the Exceptional Forest®, the town also offers many opportunities for walks and hikes, particularly around the Gros Chêne site.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, discover Haguenau at your own pace with our holiday ideas. 1, 2 or 3 days.

 

In summary

1. What to see and what to do? A bit of history
2. Haguenau in 1 day
3. Haguenau in 2 days
4. Haguenau in 3 days
5. Major festivals and highlights not to be missed in Haguenau
6. Practical advice

• Access
• When to go?
• Budget
• Where to stay?
• A little local extra

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1. What to see and what to do? A little history

Founded in the 12th century, Haguenau Its growth is due to its strategic position on the road linking Strasbourg to the northern territories. An imperial city, it was an important administrative and commercial center under Frédéric Barbarossa and has developed a rich architectural heritage over the centuries.

Today, Haguenau combines this prestigious past with a dynamic urban life, offering a blend of historical heritage, nature and cultural activities.

️️ Good to know : to explore the city with ease, tourist maps et circuits are available at the Tourist Office.

Iconic buildings to discover

• Former Chancellery Built around 1486, it now houses the Alsatian Museum and the Tourist Office.
• Alsatian Museum : immersion in the traditional daily life of Northern Alsace.
• Historical Museum : archaeological and medieval collections tracing the history of Haguenau.
• Live Drama : built in 1846, one of the few Italian-style theatres in Alsace.
• St. George's Church : combining a Romanesque nave and a Gothic choir, with medieval bells and an altarpiece of the Last Judgment.
• Protestant Temple : example of neo-classical architecture, hosting religious services and cultural events.
• Hops Market : historic market and cultural space.
• Media Library : former prison and hospital, rehabilitated into a modern cultural center.
• Old Customs House, Fishermen's Tower, Town Hall, Knights' Tower, Saint Nicholas Church, Dischlach Mill, Wissembourg Gate, Old Synagogue : historical remains not to be missed.
• Forest of Exception® et Gros Chêne site : hiking trails, picnic areas and relaxation area.

These sites they also discover themselves independently thanks to a audio-guided tour Available in French, English and German at the Tourist Office.

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2. Haguenau in 1 day: the essentials

Since the museums in Haguenau have varying opening hours depending on the season, here is a flexible itinerary to fully enjoy the city, whether the museums are open in the morning or only in the afternoon.

Option 1 – If the museums are only open in the morning

Morning – A dive into the history of Haguenau
Historical Museum and Alsatian Museum to immerse yourself in the past and the Alsatian way of life.

🎟️ Great deal: the museum pass, valid for 2 days, allows you to visit both museums for only €6.

Strolling through the historic center: Place d'Armesshopping streets and colorful facades… and don't forget the facade of the Tourist Officeperfect for a photo.

Lunch – Gourmet Break
Alsatian cuisine The Old Customs ou At Chrislène and Joël’s, friendly atmosphere at CassegrainFor a sweet treat or a coffee, the tea rooms in the city center and the Heitz bakery are safe bets.

Afternoon – Heritage on a leisurely stroll
Discover the city center thanks to the free audio-guided tour from the Tourist Office (approximately 1 hour/1 hour 30 minutes).
THEaudioguide Available in 3 languages: French, English and German, it can be borrowed free of charge from the Tourist Office.

Evening – Relaxing atmosphere
Dine according to your desires: a more gastronomic table at Jacques or the family Garden or traditional Alsatian cuisine Garden of Bacchus ou At ErnestIn the evening, a nighttime stroll in the city center or a show at the Haguenau Theater.

Option 2 – If the museums are only open in the afternoon

You just need to reverse the program of theoption 1 Start by exploring the city centre in the morning, then visit the museums in the afternoon.
The suggestions for lunch, dinner and the evening remain the same.

 

Special rain alternative — What to do in Haguenau when it rains?

In case of unpredictable weather, Haguenau offers many indoor activities. museums from the city center, like the Historical Museum and Alsatian Museumallow you to discover local history and traditions in a safe environment.
tea rooms and the shops in the center also invite you to take a relaxing break or enjoy a shopping spree, while the churches, Such as Saint Georges, Sint-Niklaas or Protestant templeThey can be visited in peace and quiet.
For a more fun activity, the aquatic center Nautiland is an excellent option, with indoor pools and relaxation areas.

Haguenau with the family: what to do in a day?

The Tourist Office offers fun walks for children aged 4 to 12, with free activity booklets to explore the city centre while having fun.

For a unique adventure, Hag Explorer transforms the city into a playground with its outdoor escape games. In case of rain, the aquatic center Nautiland is a safe bet, while the gaming bar The Bad Player allows you to end the day playing board games in a friendly atmosphere.

 

Things to do outdoors

🚶‍♀️ On foot
La Haguenau forestOne of the largest lowland forests in France, it is perfect for walking. Numerous marked trails allow you to walk in the shade of pine and oak trees, for an easy nature outing accessible to all.
Among the routes suitable for a one-day stay: the discovery trail (2,5 km), the Sandhaas walk (8 km) or the Schierlach circuit (7 km).
👉 The tourist map of the Forêt d'Exception® is available at the Tourist Office.

🚲 By bike
Haguenau is also very easy to discover in Biking thanks to its cycle paths connecting the city center, the forest, and the surrounding area. An iconic circuit allows you to explore the Forest of Exception® over 37 km (approximately 3 hours).
️️ Bike rental available with Bike'Ritmo.
👉 The map “Cycling in the Haguenau region!” is also available at the Tourist Office.

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3. Haguenau in 2 days: between city and nature

In two days, Haguenau can be discovered between historical heritage and wide natural spaces, for a balanced stay between culture and the outdoors.

DAY 1
Resume the program " Haguenau in 1 day ", by adapting visits according to museum opening hours.

DAY 2 – Nature and crafts 

Morning – Walk in the Exceptional Forest®
A stroll through the Forest of Exception® from Haguenau. Several routes are possible depending on the time and preference: the circuit of Flower garden (2:30), the Sandhaas walk (2h) or the discovery trail (1 hour). Along the way, observe the tumulifunerary remains dating from the Bronze Age and the Iron Age.
La tourist map The forest map, with all the walking trails, is available at the Tourist Office.

Noon – Lunch
Lunch at theBig Oak InnA traditional Alsatian cuisine awaits you there.

Afternoon – The pottery of Soufflenheim
Discover the Soufflenheim potteryfamous throughout the region. You can visit the workshops, observe the artisans at work and leave with unique pieces: terrines, kougelhopf molds or modern creations…

Evening — Gentle atmosphere
For a gentle end to the day, treat yourself to a relaxing moment at Spa of Europe Hotelthen have dinner At Ernest, in a warm, bistro-style atmosphere.
Another option: attend a show at Haguenau Theater or enjoy a second quiet evening in the city centre.

 

Special rain alternative — What to do for 2 days in Haguenau when it rains?

Beer lovers can visit local breweries, such as The Refuge in Haguenau, the Villa Meteor in Hochfelden or the Uberach brewery.
À SoufflenheimThe pottery workshops can be visited all year round and allow you to observe the artisanal know-how. 
On the cultural front, several museums complete the discovery, as The Bretzels Factory in Gundershoffen, the François Lotz Museum of Popular Imagery in Val-de-Moder or the La Laub Museum in Bischwiller, to combine heritage, crafts and gastronomy, even in the rain.

Haguenau in 2 days with children

Enjoy a A fun walk in the Exceptional Forest® from Haguenau, a route designed for children, punctuated with small missions and easy puzzles.
In the same vein, you will also find fun walks in Bischwiller et Brumath : small scavenger hunts, perfect for families and suitable for different ages.

If it rains: activities will be 100% indoors.

• Fish pass of Gambsheim

An exciting visit to understand how the fish pass works and, at certain times of the year, observe migratory fish through the large viewing windows. Fun, educational, and fully indoors.

• BAX Bowling – Brumath

Ideal for letting off steam as a family, with child-friendly slopes and a welcoming atmosphere. A simple and effective way to fill a rainy afternoon.

• Ultra Laser – Haguenau

A modern laser tag arena, perfect for children (and parents!) who want to burn off energy while having fun. Several game modes and quick matches.

• Session Block – Haguenau

A bouldering gym accessible to all levels. Children can climb safely, with colorful and fun routes… and all while staying dry.

Things to do outdoors

🚶‍♀️ Walking
For a two-day stay, several walks stand out: the Green Network trail and Hasensprung in Bischwiller along the Moder river, the Stocklach Grand Circuit through the Exceptional Forest®, the Sandhaas walk between Haguenau and Schweighouse-sur-Moder, or even The walk to the Saint-Ulrich spring and its wash houses in Wittersheim, renowned for its peaceful setting.
👉 All these routes are grouped together in the brochure “20 beautiful walks in the Haguenau region", available at the Tourist Office.

???? By bike
La Local loop 806 "Haguenau, city of Barbarossa" This route is ideal for a half-day bike ride. The 40km circuit allows you to discover the historic center of Haguenau, the edge of the forest, and the surrounding villages. Accessible to all levels, it follows safe and mostly flat paths, punctuated by rest stops.

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4. 3-day itinerary in Haguenau

In three days, take the time to discover Haguenau and then set off to explore Northern Alsace, between typical villages, historical sites and preserved landscapes.

DAY 1
Resume the program " Haguenau in 1 day ».

DAY 2 
Resume the program " Haguenau in 2 days ».

DAY 3 – Around Haguenau: villages, heritage and history

Morning – Wissembourg or the Maginot Line
Depending on your preferences, you have two options:

Wissembourg and the Chemin des Cimes: Discover the charming medieval town of Wissembourg, its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and abbey. Continue with a stroll along the Path of the Peaksoffering a walk at a height and a panorama over Northern Alsace.

The Maginot Line at Lembach: immerse yourself in history at Fort of Schoenenbourg, one of the best-preserved fortifications of the Maginot Line. Enthusiasts can extend their visit with other nearby sites.

Lunchtime – Lunch break
Have lunch in Wissembourg or in a nearby village, in a winstub or a traditional Alsatian restaurant.

Afternoon – Hunspach or Fleckenstein Castle
Continue your exploration with one of these two ideas:
•    Hunspach, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, for a peaceful stroll between half-timbered houses and flowery alleyways;
• THE Fleckenstein Castle, an impressive troglodyte fortress, ideal for a visit combining nature, history and beautiful viewpoints.

Evening – Last night in Haguenau
Back in Haguenau, enjoy a final evening according to your desires: gourmet dinner, night stroll in the city centre, cinema or show, or drink in a cozy bar or cafe.

 

Special rain alternative — What to do for 3 days in Haguenau when it rains?

Le Schoenenbourg fort plunges visitors into the heart of the Maginot Line, with an impressive underground immersion.
Le Memorial Museum Walbourg retraces local military history, while the Cleebourg cellars invite you to a gourmet break with local wines. 
Finally, the Rural House of the Overseas Forest Kutzenhausen offers an immersive journey into rural life of yesteryear, ideal for unpredictable weather.

 

Haguenau in 3 days with children

• The Path of the Peaks (Drachenbronn)

A high-altitude walk through the canopy, with panoramic views and a thrilling final slide. Accessible and very photogenic, a classic for children.

• Fleckenstein Castle – “Little Fleck” Trail

A colourful and interactive exhibition to raise children's awareness of nature. Around twenty workshops spread over two levels, with the motto: touch to understand.

• The Short, Fun Walks

In the Haguenau forest, in Bischwiller or Brumath. The activity booklets available at the Tourist Office allow you to walk while playing, adapted to different ages.

• Gros Chêne playground + mini-loop in the forest

A quiet option to let the children burn off some energy before a short, shaded walk.

• The House of Illusions 

An interactive space dedicated to optical illusions and trompe-l'oeil. The self-guided tour allows children to explore at their own pace and interact with most of the installations.

 

Things to do outdoors

🚶‍♀️ On foot – Walks in Green Alsace
THEGreen Alsace offers numerous marked trails through forests, hills and protected natural areas, ideal for walking and nature observation. From Haguenau, several walks are easily accessible: around the nature reserve of Reichshoffen lake, in the Vosges du Nord Regional Nature Park, or on the trails of Niederbronn-les-Bains and Lauterbourg, between undergrowth and panoramic views.

???? By bike – Towards Wissembourg and the vineyards
For a day trip, the map Alsace by bike offers beautiful regional routes starting from Haguenau. A popular route leads to Wissembourg then crosses the Cleebourg vineyard in the direction of Hunspach (approximately 29 km), with the possibility of extending the loop via Seebach and the surrounding villages.
👉 A variety of routes to discover rural landscapes, typical villages and local heritage.

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5. Major festivals and highlights not to be missed in Haguenau 

Throughout the year, Haguenau pulsates with numerous cultural, festive, and musical events. These unmissable events are integral to the city's identity and offer visitors the opportunity to discover Haguenau from a different perspective, in a friendly and lively atmosphere.

• Notes Humor 

(in May, during Ascension week)

In the spring, this unique festival blends comedy shows, concerts and street artThe performances take place in theaters, squares and sometimes even public spaces, offering an accessible and eclectic program, ideal for all audiences.

• The Hop Festival 

(end of August for 1 week)

A must-see event of the summer, the Hop Festival highlights the music and dances of the worldInternational folk groups, traditional costumes and entertainment transform Haguenau into a true cultural crossroads for several days.

• Les Estivales 

(from mid-June to mid-September)

During the summer, the Tourist Office offers the Summer, a series of more than 130 meetings Discover Haguenau and its surroundings from a unique perspective. The program includes guided walks in the forest or the historic center, heritage tours, craft workshops, meetings with local producers, and themed activities.
Summer events are ideal for all audiencesoffering a fun and user-friendly way to experience the city differently and to immerse oneself in the cultural and natural richness of Haguenau.

⚠️ Good to know: some visits and workshops are on registration only Places are limited. To plan your stay and fully enjoy the Estivales festival, it is recommended that you Consult the full program at the Tourist Office or on our website before your visit.

• Christmas market

(late November to early January)

In winter, Haguenau is adorned with its finest decorations for its Christmas marketrenowned for its warm and family-friendly atmosphere. Chalets, local crafts, gourmet specialties and entertainment immerse the town in the magic of the holidays.

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6. Practical advice

• Access

Haguenau is easily accessible thanks to its location in the heart of Northern Alsace.

🚗 By car :
Haguenau is easily accessible from Strasbourg (30 minutes), from neighboring Germany, or from major motorway routes. A4 et A35Parking is easy: several free and paid parking lots are available around the city centre.

???? By train :
Haguenau train station is well served:
• 20–25 minutes from Strasbourg,
• Connections to Wissembourg, Niederbronn-les-Bains, Saverne…
The train station is a 10-minute walk from the historic center.

(I.e. By bus:
The network RHYTHM It serves the entire city and surrounding areas. Convenient for reaching shopping areas or some more distant neighborhoods.

• When to go?

Haguenau and Northern Alsace can be visited all year round, with very different experiences depending on the season:
???? Spring : Ideal for walks in the forest, visits to villages and outdoor activities.
☀️ Summer : entertainment, festivals, terraces and long days to explore the region.
???? Autumn : Magnificent colours in the exceptional forest, perfect atmosphere for hiking.
❄️ Winter : Christmas markets, museums, indoor activities and heritage discovery at a more relaxed pace.

• Budget

A stay in Haguenau remains accessible with options for all budgets.

• Where to stay?

Haguenau offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all types of travelers, budgets, and seasons. Hotels, guesthouses and rentals, bed and breakfasts, and campsites can all be found on our website: https://www.visithaguenau.alsace/se-loger

• A little local extra

Some specialties you absolutely must try: pretzel, flammekueche, kougelhopf, dampfnüdel, sauerkraut, späetzle, chocolates…
Many villages have a weekly market or small artisans: ideal for bringing back an authentic souvenir.

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We hope this guide has inspired you to explore Haguenau and Northern Alsace at your own pace, between unspoiled nature, heritage, family activities and wonderful encounters.

Whether you are just passing through a day, a weekend ou a longer stayThe region is full of treasures to explore and moments to experience fully.

Feel free to come and see us at theOur Tourist Office for other ideas, personalized advice or simply to chat with us.

We would be delighted to accompany you on your discovery!