Things To Do
in Ostwald
Ostwald is a small commune in the Bas-Rhin department of the Grand Est region, just west of Strasbourg. It sits in the Alsatian countryside, framed by vineyards and a mix of timber-framed houses and modern amenities. The town serves as a convenient gateway to the Alsace wine route and the rich cultural offerings of nearby Strasbourg.
With good transit links, calm streets, and easy access to nature, Ostwald is a practical base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up to the gentle chimes of Saint-Georges Church and wander through the cobblestone streets. Marvel at the timber-framed houses dating back to the Middle Ages while stopping for a café au lait at a local pâtisserie. Feel the history envelop you as you stroll past the ancient ramparts and Village Gate.
Continue your journey by visiting the Ostwald Town Hall and the adjacent community gardens. Sample freshly baked Alsatian pretzels from a family-run bakery while engaging with friendly locals. Take a moment to relax on a bench by the fountain, soaking in the warm sun and serene atmosphere.
Dine at a cozy winstub where traditional choucroute garnie and tarte flambée are served with a smile. Savor a glass of local Pinot Blanc as gentle streetlights illuminate the square. End the evening with a leisurely moonlit walk along the canal, listening to the soft lapping of water against the banks.
Begin with a hearty breakfast at a riverside café overlooking the Rhine canal. Purchase fresh bread, cheese, and charcuterie from the nearby market for a picnic. Find a shaded spot under an old plane tree to spread your blanket and watch barges glide by.
Rent a kayak to paddle along the calm waters of the canal, admiring the reflection of half-timbered houses. Pause mid-route to explore hidden inlets and wildlife-rich marshes. On the way back, swing by a local artisan to sample handmade chocolates and honey from the region.
As the sun dips low, join a sunset cruise departing from Ostwald's quay, sipping wine as the skyline of nearby Strasbourg appears in the distance. Return to shore for a riverside barbecue hosted by a friendly local chef. Listen to live accordion music drifting through the warm night air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $5-9 |
| 🧀Cheese and bread (per person) | $6-12 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $1.50-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Strasbourg and the Alsace wine route
- Calm, walkable town with easy day trips to major sights
- Limited nightlife within Ostwald itself
- Some services and attractions hinge on proximity to Strasbourg
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je suis végétarien(ne)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Ostwald
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic facade with dramatic spires; excellent at sunrise or golden hour for exterior shots and long shadows.
Picturesque canals, half-timbered houses, and quaint bridges—perfect for atmospheric, postcard-perfect images.
Guard towers and covered bridges over the Ill with reflections in the water; ideal for wide-angle cityscape photographs.
Formal gardens, lakes, and châtelet-style structures; great for nature and architecture contrasts.
Modern architecture and expansive lawns provide strong contrast with the historic city center.
Food in Ostwald
Ostwald Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sauerkraut with sausages, bacon, and potatoes; a quintessential Alsatian dish found in many brasseries.
Must-Try!
A thin-crust pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons; wood-fired versions are especially classic.
A slow-cooked casserole of marinated meat and potatoes, baked in a ceramic pot with aromatic herbs.
A light yeasted cake with raisins and almonds; a popular dessert or coffee-time treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Large daily market in the city center offering fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional specialties—easy to reach by tram from Ostwald.
Weekly market with local farmers and vendors offering seasonal produce, breads, cheeses, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say bonjour or bonsoir when entering shops or restaurants; use polite titles in initial address (Monsieur/Madame).
Keep hands visible on the table; wait to begin until everyone is served; a light, friendly conversation is typical.
On public transport and in busy areas, speak quietly and be mindful of personal space. Queuing and punctuality are valued.
Safety
Tipping in Ostwald
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included (service compris) in restaurants. If not included, a tip of around 5-10% or rounding up the bill is common for good service.
Mostly cash or credit/debit cards (CB/Chip & PIN) are accepted. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are widely available, especially in Strasbourg. ATMs are common in towns and city centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm-to-hot days with long daylight hours; outdoor dining and riverfront activities flourish. Be prepared for occasional showers; bring a light rain layer and sunscreen.
Harvest season and grape veraison bring colorful vineyards and wine tastings. Cooler evenings—layered clothing recommended.
Chilly with potential snowfall; Christmas markets in Strasbourg add festive charm. Pack a warm coat, gloves, and sturdy shoes.
Mild temperatures and blooming squares; ideal for walking tours and outdoor cafés. Expect intermittent showers; a compact umbrella helps.
Ostwald at Night
Hiking in Ostwald
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle 4–6 km loop through local woodland with easy elevation and tranquil views.
Riverside flats with birdwatching opportunities and flat walking trails along the Rhine near Strasbourg.
Airports
How to reach Ostwald by plane.
Located near Entzheim, about 20–25 minutes by car or regional rail to Strasbourg; convenient for international arrivals.
An international airport near Basel, reachable in roughly 1–1.5 hours by car or train for connections to global destinations.
A major hub about 2.5–3 hours away by high-speed train and road travel; useful for long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Alsatians, cross-border workers, families, and retirees.
Many residents travel to Strasbourg or nearby towns for work or study; cross-border influence is present.
Tourists exploring Alsace wine, Strasbourg’s historic center, and nature trails.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Flat and gentle routes along the Ill and through vineyard landscapes are popular with locals and visitors.
Local clubs and school leagues are common; matches can be enjoyed in nearby Strasbourg facilities.
Exploring the Vosges foothills and Alsace vineyards is a frequent activity for outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ostwald.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Strasbourg-area brasseries; look for dishes featuring roasted vegetables, cheese, and mushroom-based preparations. In Ostwald, ask for seasonal vegetable plates or a veggie tarte flambée as a reliable option.