Things To Do
in Saverne
Saverne is a picturesque town in the Grand Est region of France, nestled at the edge of the Vosges and overlooked by rolling forested hills. It sits where the Zorn River meets the canal network, giving the town a charming waterways vibe and a historic center of timber-framed houses. The town serves as a convenient gateway to the Vosges du Nord and Alsace wine routes, offering a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor adventure.
In Saverne you’ll find winstubs serving hearty Alsatian dishes, quiet streets lined with cafés, and scenic viewpoints that reward hikers and casual walkers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saverne and check into your charming hotel. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the half-timbered houses and vibrant flowers that decorate the town. Stop by a local bakery to savor a fresh croissant and a cup of coffee.
Visit the historic Château des Rohan, where you can explore its impressive architecture and beautiful gardens. Don't forget to climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Afterward, grab lunch at a cozy cafe that offers traditional Alsatian dishes.
As the sun sets, head to the banks of the Zorn River for a scenic walk. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving exquisite regional cuisine, paired with a glass of Alsace wine. Conclude the evening with a stroll through the illuminated town square, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Vosges Mountains. The fresh air and beautiful landscapes will invigorate you as you explore the various trails available. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature's tranquility.
After your hike, return to Saverne and indulge in a hearty lunch at a local bistro. Spend the afternoon visiting the Botanical Gardens and enjoying the diverse plant species, as well as the peaceful ambiance. Engage with the locals and gain insight into their environmental efforts.
Attend a cultural event, if available, showcasing local artists or musicians. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Alsatian winstub, experiencing live music while dining on regional specialties. Conclude the evening with a glass of Gewürztraminer, soaking in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee in a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $5-9 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Alsatian town with easy access to the Vosges and wine routes
- Beautiful historic center with timber-framed architecture
- Great base for day trips to natural and cultural attractions
- Friendly, walkable town with good local cuisine
- Can be quiet in the evenings outside peak tourist seasons
- Some attractions close on certain weekdays outside peak times
- Prices for meals can be higher at tourist-focused venues
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci beaucoup" - Thank you very much
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Combien cela coûte-t-il?" - How much does this cost?
- "Pouvez-vous répéter?" - Could you repeat?
- "J'ai besoin d'aide" - I need help
- "Acceptez-vous les cartes de crédit?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "C'est délicieux" - That’s delicious
Places to Visit in Saverne
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic castle overlooking Saverne with gardens and terraces that provide sweeping views of the town and surrounding hills.
A dramatic hilltop ruin offering panoramic views across the town, forest, and valley—perfect for wide landscape shots.
Historic square framed by timber-framed houses and cafés, ideal for daytime street photography and people-watching.
Picturesque water settings with boats, stone bridges, and reflections of colorful façades along the waterfront.
Narrow passages and centuries-old architecture that showcase Alsatian charm and texture in soft morning or golden-hour light.
Food in Saverne
Saverne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sour cabbage with a variety of sausages and salted pork, typically served with potatoes and a robust Alsace wine.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked meat and potato stew (often beef, pork, and lamb) marinated with herbs and onion in a stone pot; a quintessential Alsatian comfort dish.
A thin-crust pizza-like tart topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons; a perfect shareable dish to start an Alsace meal.
A ring-shaped yeast cake with raisins and almonds; a popular dessert or coffee-time treat in the region.
A strong-smavored cheese from the region, often enjoyed with crusty rye bread and a glass of wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday morning market in the town center offering cheeses, bread, fresh produce, sausages, and Alsatian pastries.
Small stalls and bakeries around the old town for pretzels, pastries, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Bonjour/Bonsoir with a polite tone; a handshake is common in formal settings, while friends may kiss on the cheek in social circles.
Use basic French for most interactions; attempting a few phrases in French is appreciated and often welcomed.
Keep hands on the table (not elbows on the table) and use formal titles until invited to a more casual address.
Safety
Tipping in Saverne
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is typically included (service compris) in the bill; a small extra tip (5-10%) is common if you’re happy with the service, especially at nicer places.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, cafés, and restaurants; cash is useful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; good for strolls through markets and easy hikes as the forest comes back to life.
Warm days with possible thunderstorms; ideal for canal walks, short hikes, and outdoor cafés in the evenings.
Harvest season with rich colors in vineyards and forests; great for scenic drives and wine-tasting in nearby villages.
Cold with potential snow; cozy winstubs, holiday markets in Alsace, and crisp, clear days for photography.
Saverne at Night
Hiking in Saverne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular ascent offering panoramic views over Saverne, the valley, and the forest; a classic half-day hike.
Extensive network of marked trails through dense forests with varied scenery and wildlife.
Gentle to moderate loops around Saverne suitable for families and day hikes, with several viewpoints along the way.
Airports
How to reach Saverne by plane.
Located near Strasbourg, ~45-60 minutes by road; convenient for international flights and connections to Saverne by train or road.
A regional airport a bit farther away; offers several domestic and seasonal international routes; accessible by car or train via regional connections.
Shared with Basel and Mulhouse; about a 1.5-2 hour drive or train ride from Saverne; good for cross-border itineraries in the Alsace region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and professionals with strong ties to Alsatian culture.
Visitors from France and neighboring countries attracted by the Vosges and Alsace wine routes.
People exploring the nearby Alsace wine region, with a focus on Riesling and Pinot Gris varieties.
Families drawn to scenic walks, parks, and easy day trips in the Vosges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Road and mountain biking routes are popular in the surrounding hills and along canal paths.
Numerous forest trails and viewpoints in the Vosges and Vosges du Nord attract hikers of all levels.
Local clubs and school teams provide community-focused matches and activities.
In winter, nearby Vosges resorts offer skiing and snowshoeing for seasonal activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saverne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most places, including salads, quiches, and vegetable-forward dishes. When ordering, ask for dishes without meat stock or lardons; many Alsatian dishes can be adapted with cheese or vegetable sides.