Turckheim Old Town & Night Watchman - Image 1
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Turckheim Old Town & Night Watchman

4.6
·935 reviews·Turckheim, France

Step back in time in Turckheim's enchanting medieval old town, famous for its colorful houses and the iconic Night Watchman tour.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for the Night Watchman tour

CrowdMedium
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Turckheim Old Town & Night Watchman - Image 1

Turckheim Old Town & Night Watchman

Best Time

Summer evenings

Perfect for the Night Watchman tour

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Turckheim's enchanting medieval old town, famous for its colorful houses and the iconic Night Watchman tour.

4.6
(935 reviews)

"A brilliant place to try different wines and experience the region's grape varieties."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Night Watchman Tour

Essential to book ahead, especially in summer! Spots fill fast. :ticket:

Explore Wine Varieties

Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're very helpful. :wine_glass:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Night Watchman Tour

Night Watchman Tour

Follow the iconic Night Watchman through charming streets, hearing tales of the town's history.

Alsace Wine Tasting

Alsace Wine Tasting

Sample a vast range of regional wines, from crisp whites to delightful dessert wines.

Medieval Architecture

Medieval Architecture

Wander through picturesque streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

The Night Watchman tour is a must-do for experiencing Turckheim's charm after dark. Book in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly. Arrive a little early to soak in the evening atmosphere.

Wine Tasting Etiquette

Turckheim is renowned for its wines. Many tasting rooms offer a chance to sample before buying. Staff are generally knowledgeable and happy to guide you through regional grape varieties without pressure.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Perfect for the Night Watchman tour
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, wine tasting
Crowd
High
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter wine tasting, exploring
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Grandpa’s Cellar at Apple Hill. Most known for their popular coffee and lemonade flights and large assortment of baked goods 😋 •Lemonade flight 9/10 •Coffee flight 4/10 😭 I couldn’t taste any of the flavors, just taste like iced coffee •Desserts 10/10 #fyp #Foodie #foodreview #applehill #california
@rockkleebr3
17.2K likes • 392.3K views

Book Night Watchman Tour

Essential to book ahead, especially in summer! Spots fill fast. :ticket:

Explore Wine Varieties

Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're very helpful. :wine_glass:

If you are looking for INCREDIBLE food, amazing wine, and an amazing view of fall colors….look no further! Highly recommend checking out Aspen Peak Cellars! We randomly found this place when lead peeping, and i will absolutely be back!! #realtorindenver #coloradolife #baileyco #aspenpeakcellars #buyingahouseindenver #fallincolorado #coloradorealtor
@realestateriley_denver
11.5K likes • 237.5K views
Escape to Turckheim, a charming old town. It’s peaceful and less crowded than Colmar’s old town. #wheninfrance #turkeheim #alsaceregion #wineryalsace
evatjio
17 likes • 198 views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but uneven. :athletic_shoe:

Arrive Early for Tours

Soak in the ambiance before the Night Watchman begins his rounds. :clock:

My ways to delete pictures from phone where storage is chocking ...is to reel them....a quiet town ....early weekend trip .Turckheim is a medieval village in France’s Alsace wine region . Am an old soul and I love this little discovering of places where I see Middle Age architecture. There is no clutter of people here and so much better .
subarna_ray_chaudhuri
16 likes • 268 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Night Watchman Tour

Essential to book ahead, especially in summer! Spots fill fast. :ticket:

Explore Wine Varieties

Don't hesitate to ask staff for recommendations; they're very helpful. :wine_glass:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but uneven. :athletic_shoe:

Arrive Early for Tours

Soak in the ambiance before the Night Watchman begins his rounds. :clock:

Register for Discounts

Sign up on your first wine purchase for future savings. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(935 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Turckheim Old Town for its picturesque medieval charm and the unique Night Watchman tour. The wine tasting experiences are highlighted as excellent, with knowledgeable and welcoming staff. While the beauty of the town is undeniable, some find parking can be challenging during peak times.

"What a great place to find out about the wines of the area, try before you buy. We enjoyed our visit, the staff welcoming, knowledgeable and helpful."

Dave S

"Excellent experience.! I am so glad to be here. They were so welcoming and I tasted a dessert wine, which was lovely. I was happy that it's always open"

Soundarya Shetty

"Really beautiful place. Good food and atmosphere. Staff was very helpful every time. Will come back again"

Alex Po

What People Like

Charming medieval streets
Night Watchman tour
Excellent wine tasting

What People Dislike

Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Turckheim is easily accessible by car via the D417 road. If traveling by train, the nearest major station is Colmar, from which you can take a bus or taxi to Turckheim. Parking is available near the old town, but can be limited during peak times.

Yes, Turckheim Old Town is very walkable and best explored on foot. The charming streets and medieval architecture are best appreciated at a leisurely pace.

Absolutely! Turckheim is a popular day trip from Colmar, located just a short drive or bus ride away. It offers a different, more intimate medieval experience.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Turckheim Old Town itself is free. However, specific attractions like the Night Watchman tour require tickets and advance booking.

Ticket prices for the Night Watchman tour can vary, but it's generally an affordable experience. It's highly recommended to check the official Turckheim tourism website for current pricing and booking details.

Wine tasting rooms in Turckheim typically have varied hours, often open in the afternoons and early evenings. Some are open year-round, while others may have seasonal hours. It's best to check individual establishments.

Many wine tasting rooms offer complimentary tastings, especially if you plan to purchase wine. Some may charge a small fee, which is often redeemable against a wine purchase. This is a great way to discover local wines.

Yes, purchasing wine directly from the tasting rooms is encouraged and a great way to support local producers. You'll find a wide selection of Alsace wines.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Night Watchman tour is a guided walk through Turckheim's historic streets after dark. The watchman, in traditional attire, shares local legends and historical anecdotes, often ending with a horn call. It's a unique and atmospheric experience.

Beyond the Night Watchman tour, don't miss the picturesque half-timbered houses, the medieval ramparts, the Protestant church of Saint-Anne, and the charming squares. Exploring the narrow, winding streets is an attraction in itself.

While the Night Watchman tour is the most famous, local tourist offices may offer other guided tours of the old town during the day, providing historical context and insights into the architecture.

Turckheim offers a delightful mix of souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and, of course, numerous wine shops and tasting rooms. You can find local crafts and regional specialties.

The old town's cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces can be challenging for those with mobility issues. While some areas are more accessible than others, it's advisable to proceed with caution.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Turckheim offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional Alsatian brasseries serving local specialties like Tarte Flambée and Choucroute, to charming cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating. Many are located within the old town.

While traditional Alsatian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan options when ordering.

Yes, you can find bakeries (boulangeries) offering sandwiches and pastries, as well as cafes that serve lighter fare, perfect for a quick lunch or snack while exploring.

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner of Turckheim Old Town is photogenic! Focus on the colorful half-timbered houses, narrow alleyways, flower-adorned balconies, and the historic church. The Night Watchman tour also offers unique evening photo opportunities.

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the town's charm. Evenings during the Night Watchman tour provide a magical, atmospheric setting for unique shots.

Generally, photography is permitted in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and ask for permission before photographing individuals or inside private establishments.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Turckheim offers a charming experience for families, though the cobblestone streets can be a bit challenging with strollers. The Night Watchman tour is particularly engaging for children, bringing history to life with its storytelling and traditional costume. Exploring the old town's narrow streets and spotting the unique architecture can be an adventure in itself. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly options, and the overall atmosphere is safe and welcoming for families.

🍷 Wine Enthusiasts

For wine lovers, Turckheim is a paradise. The town is situated on the Alsace Wine Route and is home to numerous wine tasting rooms where you can sample a wide variety of local vintages. The staff are often multilingual and very helpful in guiding your tasting experience, making it easy to discover new favorites. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the producers, and remember to register for potential discounts on future visits.Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Turckheim is a wonderful destination for solo travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and local flavor. The Night Watchman tour is a great way to connect with other visitors and experience the town's unique heritage. Exploring the old town at your own pace, popping into wine tasting rooms, and enjoying local cuisine are all easily done solo. The friendly atmosphere and helpful locals make it a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Night Watchman

The Night Watchman tour is arguably the most unique experience in Turckheim. As dusk settles, a costumed Night Watchman leads small groups through the illuminated medieval streets, sharing captivating stories and historical anecdotes of the town. This tradition, dating back centuries, was originally a vital role in preventing fires and maintaining order. Today, it offers visitors a truly immersive and atmospheric journey into Turckheim's past. The distinctive horn calls echo through the narrow alleys, creating an unforgettable ambiance. It's highly recommended to book this tour in advance, especially during the popular summer months, as it's a sought-after experience.Reddit

Exploring Alsace's Renowned Wines

Turckheim is a gateway to the celebrated Alsace wine route, and its old town boasts numerous wine tasting rooms and cellars. Visitors can sample a wide array of local wines, including the region's famous Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc. Many establishments offer a 'try before you buy' experience, with knowledgeable staff eager to explain the nuances of each grape variety and wine style. Some reviewers highlight the helpfulness of the staff, noting they provide thoughtful recommendations without being pushy, and even offer discounts for repeat visitors who register on their first purchase.Reddit+1 This makes it an excellent opportunity to discover and purchase quality regional wines.

Architectural Charm and Medieval Atmosphere

Turckheim Old Town is a postcard-perfect example of Alsatian medieval architecture. The town is characterized by its colorful half-timbered houses, many adorned with vibrant flower boxes, creating a picturesque scene at every turn. Wandering through its narrow, winding cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. Key architectural highlights include the Protestant Church of Saint-Anne and remnants of the old town walls and gates. The overall atmosphere is one of preserved history and quaint charm, making it a delight for photographers and history enthusiasts alike. Comfortable footwear is a must due to the cobblestones.Reddit

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