Things to Do in Haguenau: A Complete Guide to a Great Weekend in Alsace

Updated in April 2026 — Reading time: 14 min

Wondering what to do in Haguenau during your next trip to Northern Alsace? This town of 35,000 residents is full of surprises. As the fourth-largest town in Alsace, Haguenau charms visitors with its medieval heritage, its exceptional forest, and its authentic cuisine. Plus, its strategic location—just a 25-minute TER train ride from Strasbourg—makes it an ideal base for exploring the entire region.

In this guide, we share must-see activities, top spots, and our Nexvisit accommodations available for direct booking. For the latest details on opening hours, events, and guided tours, we also recommend visiting the official website ofthe Pays de Haguenau Tourist Office, where local experts continuously update the information.

🏰 What to do in Haguenau? Explore the historic center

Things to do in Haguenau — the town center is in full bloom in the spring in front of the theater

The historic center of Haguenau is well worth spending a full half-day exploring. The town boasts a remarkable medieval heritage. What’s more, the pedestrian streets around the Grand’Rue offer the perfect setting for strolling, shopping at independent boutiques, and soaking up the Alsatian atmosphere.

Must-see landmarks

First of all,the Church of Saint-Georges is impressive for its architecture: its construction, authorized in 1143 by Frederick I the One-Eyed, Bishop of Strasbourg, was completed in 1189. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1848, it is one of the finest examples of Romanesque-Gothic architecture in Alsace. Next, the Fishermen’s Tower, built between 1315 and 1318 as a remnant of the medieval ramparts, stands over 30 meters tall and is constructed of the region’s characteristic pink sandstone. Additionally, the Knights’ Tower, a fortified gate built around 1235 of brick, completes this remnant of the ancient fortified enclosure.

Haguenau Historical Museum — Alsatian cultural heritage
💡 Local Tip: Two markets bring life to the downtown area. First, the twice-weekly market is held on Tuesday and Friday mornings (7:30 AM–12 PM) at the Halle aux Houblons, featuring fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and small-scale producers. On the other hand, the weekly market at Place de la République takes place on Thursday late afternoons (4:00 PM–7:00 PM) and Saturday mornings (8:00 AM–12:00 PM). It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on fresh produce before brunch at your Nexvisit vacation rental.

The three museums in Haguenau

Haguenau is home to three complementary museums that can be visited with a very affordable combined ticket. First, the Historical Museum traces the history of Northern Alsace through an exceptional collection: more than 750 graves from the Bronze and Iron Ages, Roman artifacts (a legionnaire’s helmet, statues, jewelry), medieval coins, 18th-century furniture and silverware, as well as a collection of 80 Art Nouveau and Art Deco glass pieces.

Second, the Musée Alsacien, housed in the former medieval chancellery, showcases Alsatian folk arts and traditions dating back to the 19th century: painted furniture, costumes, everyday objects, and local crafts. Finally, and this is exclusive to Haguenau, the Luggage Museum—the only one of its kind in France—displays over 450 restored trunks and pieces of luggage in the former Banque de France building, tracing the history of travel from 1750 to the present day. Notably, a combined ticket for all three museums costs just €6 (reduced rate €3).

Haguenau Tourist Office and Alsatian Museum

To help you plan your visit and find out the exact opening hours,the Pays de Haguenau Tourist Office (1 Place Joseph Thierry, in the pedestrian zone) offers free brochures, maps, and themed guided tours. That’s why we recommend stopping by as soon as you arrive.

🌲 The Haguenau Forest: A Unique Natural Treasure

Haguenau Forest — Things to Do in Haguenau Amidst Nature

If you’re looking for outdoor activities in Haguenau, the answer is simple: the forest. Covering 21,000 hectares (including 13,400 ha of undivided forest), the Haguenau Forest is the largest lowland forest in Alsace and the sixth-largest forest in France. It stretches 30 km from west to east and 10 km from north to south. Indeed, this green lung is home to exceptional biodiversity: deer, wild boars, black woodpeckers, and wild orchids.

The Gros Chêne Site: The Heart of the Forest

Deep in the forest, the Gros Chêne site is the perfect starting point for any exploration. It features a playground for children, designated picnic areas, a restaurant, and, most importantly, access to over 200 km of marked trails. Notably, a trail suitable for people with limited mobility and strollers ensures that everyone can enjoy the outdoors.

Hiking, biking, and fitness trails

Several marked trails of varying difficulty levels wind through the forest. In addition, the Haguenau Forest is part of numerous cycling routes that allow you to explore the area to the north (Northern Vosges) or south (Strasbourg). Furthermore, fitness trails, mountain bike trails, and themed circuits ensure that everyone can find a route that suits them. To view the latest itineraries and download official maps, visit the dedicated portal on the Tourist Office website.

🏆 Did you know? The Haguenau Forest has been designated a “Forêt d’Exception®” by the ONF since 2020. In France, only about twenty forests hold this prestigious designation. In practical terms, this means that it is the focus of a unique development program that combines nature, culture, history, and biodiversity.

🎯 Activities and leisure: What to do in Haguenau with the family or as a couple?

Beyond its historic sites and forests, Haguenau offers activities for everyone. The city has invested in modern facilities that perfectly complement its cultural offerings. Here are our recommendations.

Nautiland: Haguenau's water park

Nautiland Haguenau — swimming pool and water slides

Nautiland (8 Rue des Dominicains) is THE favorite spot for families in Haguenau. This water park features water slides, splash pools, play areas for young children, and a wellness area with a sauna and steam room. Plus, admission is very affordable: €6.50 (2-hour pass) or €8 (full-day pass) for adults. Hours: Monday–Friday 12 PM–9 PM, Saturday–Sunday 9 AM–7 PM (subject to change during school holidays).

Didi’land: the family amusement park

Located about 15 km north of Haguenau (a 20-minute drive), in Morsbronn-les-Bains, Didi’land has been delighting families for nearly 40 years with more than 25 attractions, including roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a pirate ship, a monorail, a wild river ride, and a water play area. The 2026 season begins on April 3. Admission: €29 for adults, €27 for children (1 m and taller) or seniors. Address: 1 route de Gunstett, 67360 Morsbronn-les-Bains. More information and online reservations at didiland.fr.

Shopping, markets, and events

Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the Carrefour Haguenau Shopping Center (hypermarket + 20 shops and services) as well as the many independent shops on Grand’Rue in the pedestrian-friendly downtown area. Also, don’t miss the Marché des Terroirs, a major event organized by the Maison des Associations de Haguenau on Place Charles de Gaulle and around City Hall: over 50 vendors (producers, artisans, and farmers) offer charcuterie, craft beers, cheeses, pottery, soaps, and live music.

Finally, when it comes to festivals, Haguenau hosts the famous Festival L’Humour des Notes every year, which combines music and comedy: the 34th edition will take place from May 8 to 17, 2026, featuring over 100 shows throughout the city (many of them free in the streets!). In addition, Haguenau’s Christmas markets (late November to late December) are among the most authentic in Northern Alsace.

🍽️ Where to eat in Haguenau: our favorite spots

You can’t talk about things to do in Haguenau without mentioning the food. Here, you can enjoy a meal in an authentic setting, with great restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Here are three places we particularly love.

Our favorite restaurants

🏆 Le Comptoir des Loges

French cuisine & tapas — 14 Georges Clémenceau Street

A well-established restaurant in Haguenau, rated 4.5/5. Creative French cuisine (carpaccio, filet mignon, homemade burgers) and a selection of tapas (Serrano ham, foie gras, salmon). Homemade dishes, warm welcome, cozy atmosphere. Reservations recommended on weekends.

🍕 Da Vinci Restaurant

Italian & wood-fired pizzas — 176 Grand’Rue

Located right in the heart of the pedestrian zone, offering authentic Italian cuisine and wood-fired pizzas. An elegant, modern atmosphere with a large, shaded terrace in the summer (seats 40). Rated 85/100 with over 3,000 reviews. Perfect for dinner with family or friends.

✨ For the Good Life

Premium Meats & Bar Lounge — 34 Route de Bischwiller

A high-end restaurant rated 4.8/5 on Google. Exceptional meats (ribeye steak, Bellota Iberian pork, Japanese-style Wagyu beef), Tahitian-style tuna tartare. Fresh market vegetables, 100% homemade sauces and marinades. Expect to pay €40–50 per person.

🍺 Météor Brewery

Craft Brewery — Hochfelden (35 min)

Located 35 minutes from Haguenau, the Météor Brewery (founded in 1640) offers guided tours by reservation. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic Alsatian family-run brewery, complete with a tasting.

🧑‍🍳 Cook local in your vacation rental! All our Nexvisit accommodations feature a fully equipped kitchen (Nespresso machine, dishwasher, induction cooktop). So, pick up your ingredients at the Halle aux Houblons or Place de la République markets and make your own homemade flammekueche in your vacation rental. Our local recipes are even available in the welcome booklet!

🧭 Day trips from Haguenau: What’s there to do in the area?

Haguenau is a strategic starting point for exploring Northern Alsace. The town is located at the intersection of the A4 and A35 highways, close to some remarkable destinations. Here are the excursions we recommend from your accommodation.

Less than 30 minutes

🏙️

Strasbourg

25 minutes by TER — Cathedral, Petite France, riverboats, Christmas markets

🏘️

Wissembourg

30 min — Medieval village, ramparts, Salt House, vineyard

🏡

Hunspach

25 min — France's Favorite Village 2020, half-timbered houses, absolute tranquility

Wine Route and Castles

The famous Alsace Wine Route begins in Marlenheim, about 45 minutes from Haguenau. In particular, the villages of Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg are well worth a longer stop. Similarly, Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle offers an exceptional view of the Alsace plain. Overall, plan on spending a full day on this excursion.

Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park

Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Northern Vosges Regional Nature Park begins just outside Haguenau. Notably, Fleckenstein Castle offers a fun forest trail that’s perfect for children. In addition, the red sandstone cliffs create spectacular scenery. Finally, hiking enthusiasts will find hundreds of kilometers of marked trails.

📅 Sample itinerary: What to do in Haguenau over a weekend?

🌅 Saturday

9 a.m. — Weekly market at Place de la République + breakfast

10:30 a.m. — Tour of the historic district and the History Museum

12:30 p.m. — Lunch at Comptoir des Loges or Da Vinci

2:30 p.m. — Walk in the Haguenau Forest (Gros Chêne site)

7:30 p.m. — Gourmet dinner at Aux Bons Vivants

☀️ Sunday

9:30 a.m. — Homemade brunch (market-fresh ingredients)

10:30 a.m. — Nautiland (2 hours of water fun)

1:00 p.m. — Tour of the Luggage Museum (the only one of its kind in France!)

2:30 p.m. — Trip to Wissembourg or Hunspach

5:00 p.m. — A leisurely return to the lodge

🛏️ Where to stay in Haguenau? Our all-inclusive Nexvisit accommodations

Now that you know what to do in Haguenau, all that’s left is to find the right place to stay. At Nexvisit, we manage several furnished apartments right in Haguenau. Each apartment includes professional cleaning, hotel-quality linens, and WiFi—with no hidden fees. Plus, our 24-hour self-check-in gives you complete flexibility.

La Maison Royale — a large family home in Haguenau

The Royal House

Haguenau — near downtown and the train station

€163 per night*

👥 9 travelers 🛏️ 3 bedrooms 📐 100 sq ft 🅿️ Free parking 🏡 Garden & terrace

A beautiful 100-square-meter house in Haguenau, perfect for families and groups of up to 9 people. With 3 spacious bedrooms, a terrace, a private garden, and a foosball table, everything you need for a memorable stay. Fully equipped kitchen with an Airfryer and Nespresso machine; baby gear available (travel crib, high chair). Close to downtown and the Haguenau train station.

✅ Cleaning included ✅ Linens included ✅ Foosball ✅ Baby equipment
Discover La Maison Royale →

*Based on a 2-night stay; cleaning and linens included

Charming houses and cozy apartments

The Terra Nova — a small, air-conditioned house in Haguenau

The Terra Nova

Haguenau — terrace with no overlooking buildings

€120 per night*

👥 5 guests 🛏️ 2 bedrooms 📐 80 sq ft 🅿️ Free parking ❄️ Air conditioning

A charming 80-square-meter cottage in Haguenau featuring a private terrace with no overlooking buildings, private parking, and air conditioning. With two bedrooms (including a loft) and a fully equipped kitchen featuring a Nespresso machine and dishwasher, it’s the perfect place for families of up to five people.

✅ Cleaning included ✅ Linens included ✅ Private terrace ✅ Air conditioning
Discover Terra Nova →

*Based on a 2-night stay; cleaning and linens included

The Pepsii — a colorful and cozy apartment in Haguenau

Pepsii

Haguenau — terrace with no overlooking buildings

€130 per night*

👥 4 guests 🛏️ 1 bedroom 📐 45 sq ft ☀️ Private terrace 📶 Fiber WiFi

A vibrant 45-square-meter apartment in Haguenau, designed to be a truly soothing retreat. Perfect for a getaway for two or a small group, it charms with its warm atmosphere. It features a fully equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine, a Smart TV for your evenings, and a private terrace with no overlooking neighbors, ideal for relaxing in complete tranquility.

✅ Cleaning included ✅ Linens included ✅ Self-check-in ✅ Private terrace
Learn more about Le Pepsii →

*Based on a 1-night stay, including cleaning and linens

✅Nocommission
🏨No tourist tax
🔒Secure paymentvia Stripe
🛏️Hotel linensincluded

Explore all our accommodations in Haguenau

Furnished houses, apartments, and studios. Cleaning and linens included; 24-hour self-check-in.

See all our accommodations →

📌 Practical information for your stay in Haguenau

🗕 How do I get there?

By car: A4 (Paris), A35 (Strasbourg). Free parking at all our cottages.
By train: TER Strasbourg → Haguenau in 25 minutes; the station is 10 minutes from downtown.
By plane: Strasbourg-Entzheim Airport is 45 minutes away.

📍 Useful links

Haguenau Tourist Office — updated hours, guided tours, and events
Our Nexvisit accommodations — book directly with no commission
Wine Route Guide — to plan your excursions

❓ What to do in Haguenau? Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do in Haguenau when it rains?

There are several indoor activities available in Haguenau. In fact, Nautiland (a water park) welcomes visitors in any weather. In addition, Haguenau’s three museums (the Historical Museum, the Alsatian Museum, and the Luggage Museum) offer excellent alternatives with a combined ticket for just €6. However, rainy days are also perfect for enjoying your Nexvisit vacation rental: a fully equipped kitchen, 4K Smart TV, and board games in some accommodations.

How many days does it take to visit Haguenau?

We recommend spending at least two days here to fully enjoy the city. Specifically, one day is enough to see the historic center and the forest, while a second day allows you to explore the surrounding area (Wissembourg, Hunspach, Strasbourg). Additionally, if you’re traveling with children, plan on spending an extra half-day at Nautiland or Didiland.

Accommodations, budget, and access

How much should you budget for a weekend in Haguenau?

At Nexvisit, accommodations start at €120 per night, all-inclusive (cleaning and linens included). Therefore, for a two-night weekend getaway for two, expect to spend about €260 on accommodations + €60 on restaurants + €15 on activities = approximately €335 in total. That’s why Haguenau remains a very affordable destination compared to Strasbourg or Colmar.

Is it possible to visit Haguenau without a car?

Yes, that’s certainly possible. The TER connects Strasbourg to Haguenau in 25 minutes. Similarly, the RITMO bus network serves the main neighborhoods. However, for day trips to nearby areas (Hunspach, the Wine Route), a car is still more convenient. All of our accommodations offer free parking for guests arriving by car.

When is the best time to visit Haguenau?

Haguenau is a pleasant place to visit all year round. First, spring offers flower-filled walks in the forest and mild temperatures. Next, May is marked by the L’Humour des Notes festival (May 8–17, 2026), while summer brings the city to life with Nautiland. Finally, the Christmas markets (late November) transform Haguenau into a magical village. In other words, there’s no bad time of year to discover what to do in Haguenau.

Ready to discover everything there is to do in Haguenau?

From the Forêt d’Exception® to medieval heritage, from crispy flammekueches to unique museums like the Luggage Museum, Haguenau offers a wealth of experiences for everyone. Indeed, this intimate town perfectly blends Alsatian authenticity with modernity. Moreover, its strategic location makes it the ideal base from which to explore the entire Bas-Rhin region.

So now that you know exactly what to do in Haguenau, all that’s left is to book your accommodation. At Nexvisit, our all-inclusive vacation rentals await you, complete with housekeeping, linens, and self-check-in. Book directly and enjoy the best rates—with no commission. For all practical details (schedules, events, guided tours), feel free to also visit the official website ofthe Pays de Haguenau Tourist Office.

Article published in May 2025, updated in April 2026 — Nexvisit

SAS Nexvisit — Manager of vacation rentals in Alsace — www.nexvisit.com

Back to top
Nexvisit - Vacation Rentals