Guided tour of the House of Folk Art
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Benfeld
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Benfeld
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The town hall features a remarkable 16th-century astronomical clock with jacquemarts that strike the hour; be in the main square before noon to watch it.
- Benfeld is part of the Grand Ried area. Bring mosquito repellent in summer when exploring the nearby wetlands.
- Parking is generally free but limited in the historic core; use the lots near the train station for stress-free access.
- Take the scenic local train from Strasbourg for a quick day trip without the hassle of driving on the autoroute.
🍽 Food
🍽
Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche)
Best enjoyed in a traditional Winstub in the historic center.
🍽
Choucroute garnie
A classic Alsatian dish, widely available in local restaurants near the town hall.
🍽
Kougelhopf
Pick up this sweet, crown-shaped brioche from a traditional bakery on Rue du Général de Gaulle.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Monday Market
The weekly market around the town hall is great for Alsatian sausages and local Munster cheese.
🛍
Local crafts and pottery
Small boutiques in the historic center sell traditional Alsatian ceramics.
🧘
Banks of the River Ill
A shaded pathway well-suited for a quiet stroll away from the center.
🧘
Parc de la Maison des Œuvres
A small, relaxing green space near the center.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
10
Weekly Monday morning market in Benfeld
Discover fresh regional produce and the lively atmosphere of the local market in the heart of Benfeld.
Flea Market in Benfeld
A true paradise for bargain hunters where every corner holds an unexpected find. Enjoy a pleasant moment of surprising discoveries.
Summer Festival
Baby Readers: Whispered and Sung Stories
Stories, rhymes, and songs for the little ones. A gentle introduction to the world of books for tiny ears.
Flea Market in Benfeld
Browse for hidden treasures and unique finds at this traditional local flea market.
Musical Afterwork
Enjoy a relaxing evening with live music and light refreshments.
Local Produce Market
Visit the milking workshop and enjoy local delicacies prepared on-site.
Traditional Flea Market
A paradise for collectors and vintage lovers in the heart of the town.
Afterwork Ping
Sporty after-work session with table tennis and social gathering for everyone.
Benfeld is a characterful Alsatian town located in the Bas-Rhin department of eastern France, set in the fertile Ill river valley. The town rose to prominence in the Middle Ages as a fortified stronghold of the Bishops of Strasbourg, and its strategic importance is still reflected in its historic layout. The most iconic landmark is the Town Hall, built in 1531, which features a world-renowned Renaissance automaton clock that displays moving figures on the hour. For generations, Benfeld was the epicenter of the Alsatian tobacco industry, a legacy that shaped its local economy and left behind distinct architectural features like high-roofed drying sheds. Geographically, it sits in the 'Ried' region, known for its unique wetland ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna. Today, Benfeld is a thriving residential community that perfectly balances its industrial past with environmental conservation. Its location along the Strasbourg-Colmar railway line makes it easily accessible, while its well-preserved half-timbered houses and local festivals continue to draw visitors seeking authentic Alsatian culture.
- Location: Grand Est, France
- Top sights: Benfeld Town Hall · Saint-Laurent Church · Plan d'eau de Benfeld
- Nearby: Erstein (8 km)
- Population: ~5.973
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 1 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 11 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 57 | 46 | 51 | 49 | 83 | 72 | 75 | 76 | 56 | 68 | 59 | 66 |
Geography
Facts
- Postal code: 67230
- Land area: 7.79 square km
- Altitude range: 155 to 162 meters
- Population: 5,973
- Notable feature: 1531 Automaton clock
- Region: Grand Est (Alsace)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→14:031.1 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Morning: Start your day by exploring the town's ancient defensive walls and the peaceful Saint-Laurent Church. Midday: Admire the beautiful Renaissance architecture of the charming town hall right in the heart of Benfeld. Afternoon: Enjoy some relaxing downtime at La Récrée des Loulous, offering an engaging space for the whole family. Evening: Wind down at Place de l'Europe, finding a comfortable bench to observe the gentle evening bustle.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Stroll along the remnants of the ancient fortress to feel Benfeld's history, and bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the uneven stone paths easily.
🚶 5'0.12 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Admire the impressive architectural details of this peaceful church, and do not forget to look up to see the beautifully crafted historical pipe organ inside.
🚶 4'0.07 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
Discover this 16th-century Renaissance jewel featuring a striking clock tower; make sure to photograph its facade in the clear and bright morning light.
🚶 13'0.48 km
📍
11:52 · 45'
La Récrée des Loulous
A fantastic spot for families with children offering ample space for active play; be sure to allocate extra time if you plan to visit on busy weekends.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
12:48 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
Relax in this modern square that reflects Benfeld's present-day urban life, and grab a seat on one of the benches for an excellent session of people-watching.
09:00→14:031.1 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy walk at the park, wearing a good raincoat. Head towards the church and town hall where you can find shelter if needed. Spend the afternoon at the indoor playground, perfect for escaping the downpour. End the day at the central square, enjoying the reflections on the wet cobblestones before heading indoors.
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📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
A good umbrella is essential for this outdoor spot; admire the beautiful historical remnants glistening in the rain before moving to a drier location.
🚶 5'0.12 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Step inside to escape the persistent rain and admire the peaceful, completely dry interior with its beautiful stained glass windows away from the wetness.
🚶 4'0.07 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
View the striking architecture from beneath an umbrella or find a brief, helpful shelter near the entrance archways if the rain suddenly becomes heavier.
🚶 13'0.48 km
📍
11:52 · 45'
La Récrée des Loulous
This indoor play area is an absolute lifesaver on a rainy day, keeping the entire family fully entertained and, most importantly, completely warm and dry.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
12:48 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
The continuous rain adds a moody charm to this central square, but make sure to watch out for very slippery paving stones and deep puddles as you walk.
09:00→14:031.1 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Bundle up for a crisp winter morning at the square. Warm up inside the church before visiting the historic town hall. In the afternoon, let the kids burn off energy at the indoor play center to escape the cold. Finish your walk at the European square as the early 17:00 sunset beautifully illuminates the town center.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Wrap up warm in layers; the frosty morning air makes these historic park grounds look completely magical under the bare winter trees.
🚶 5'0.12 km
⛪
10:00 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
The thick stone walls offer a welcoming, draft-free haven to warm your freezing hands and admire the incredibly quiet, peaceful winter atmosphere.
🚶 4'0.07 km
📍
10:54 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
The bright winter light beautifully highlights the facade, but the surrounding streets can be quite icy, so tread carefully on the slippery stones.
🚶 13'0.48 km
📍
11:52 · 45'
La Récrée des Loulous
A first-rate, heated indoor retreat where the family can comfortably play and relax while completely avoiding the freezing winter temperatures outside.
🚶 11'0.39 km
📍
12:48 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
Arrive just as the early dusk sets in around 17:00 to see the square beautifully lit up against the dramatically cold, dark winter evening sky.
09:00→15:236.3 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Morning: Kick off your cycling tour in the modern square before heading to the iconic Renaissance town hall. Midday: Visit the central church and take a short ride to the historic ramparts for a quick historical break. Afternoon: Pedal out of the historic center to enjoy the wide-open spaces around the scenic Benfeld lake. Evening: Finish your active day by riding along the Zembs River, enjoying the tranquil sunset over the water.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
Relax in this modern square that reflects Benfeld's present-day urban life, and grab a seat on one of the benches for an excellent session of people-watching.
🚲 7'0.7 km
📍
10:02 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
Discover this 16th-century Renaissance jewel featuring a striking clock tower; make sure to photograph its facade in the clear and bright morning light.
🚲 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:50 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Admire the impressive architectural details of this peaceful church, and do not forget to look up to see the beautifully crafted historical pipe organ inside.
🚲 4'0.12 km
📍
11:44 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Stroll along the remnants of the ancient fortress to feel Benfeld's history, and bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the uneven stone paths easily.
🚲 15'1.94 km
📍
12:44 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
Enjoy the local lake for a peaceful stroll or a refreshing summer dip; pack a light picnic to fully experience the beauty of nature away from the city center.
🚲 24'3.46 km
📍
13:53 · 60'
La Zembs River
Walk along the pristine banks of this river for excellent birdwatching, and remember to apply insect repellent, especially during the late afternoon hours.
09:00→15:236.3 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Start your wet cycling route at the central square with reliable rain gear. Ride past the town hall and church, being cautious on wet cobblestones. Later, cycle to the lake and river; the rain creates a dramatic atmosphere, but beware of muddy paths. Finish your damp ride by drying off indoors.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
Start your ride with fully waterproof gear; the wet paving stones here require gentle, careful braking on the turns to completely avoid slipping.
🚲 7'0.7 km
📍
10:02 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
Pause quickly to admire the wet facade; make absolutely sure your bike lights are turned on clearly due to the gloomy and dark rainy weather.
🚲 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:50 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
If the rain gets too heavy, safely park your bike and step safely inside this quiet sanctuary to dry off for a comfortable moment out of the storm.
🚲 4'0.12 km
📍
11:44 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Cycling past the park in the persistent rain is refreshing, but firmly stick to the paved paths to avoid getting bogged down in the deep mud.
🚲 15'1.94 km
📍
12:44 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
The falling raindrops creating ripples on the lake surface is a beautiful sight, though you must avoid the muddy shoreline trails which are slippery.
🚲 24'3.46 km
📍
13:53 · 60'
La Zembs River
The water levels might be much higher today; enjoy the dramatic misty views over the river while safely wearing a solid, bright raincoat.
09:00→15:236.3 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 29–39 €Entries 22€ · Transport 12€
Crisp winter cycling requires thermal layers and thick gloves. Start in the town center, moving past historic buildings in the chilly air. Head out to the lake and river in the afternoon for frosty views. Plan to finish before the 17:00 sunset brings freezing, dangerous temperatures.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Place de l'Europe
Make absolutely sure to wear thick gloves and a windproof jacket to effectively combat the biting morning chill as you start your winter ride.
🚲 7'0.7 km
📍
10:02 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
The crisp winter air provides incredibly clear views of this historic building; deeply watch out for dangerous patches of black ice on the roads.
🚲 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:50 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Take a short, needed break from the cold wind by stepping safely inside the church to warm your frozen hands before continuing your pedal.
🚲 4'0.12 km
📍
11:44 · 45'
Square du Rempart
The frost-covered grass and beautifully bare trees offer a stark, striking winter landscape as you carefully pedal past on the paved paths.
🚲 15'1.94 km
📍
12:44 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
The lake might have fully icy edges; it’s an impressive winter stop, but the open wind coming off the water will be absolutely freezing.
🚲 24'3.46 km
📍
13:53 · 60'
La Zembs River
Keep a close eye out for icy patches along the riverbank path; the low winter sun creates long, beautiful shadows here before the early dark.
09:00→15:3510.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 20–28 €Entries 22€ · Transport 2€
Morning: Drive straight into the historic center to explore the charming ramparts and the main town hall. Midday: After a visit to the local church, drive out of town to the serene Huttenheim lake for nature views. Afternoon: Head back towards Benfeld's main lake, parking nearby to stretch your legs with a lakeside walk. Evening: Conclude your road trip near the Zembs River, savoring the calm natural environment before departing.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Stroll along the remnants of the ancient fortress to feel Benfeld's history, and bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate the uneven stone paths easily.
🚗 3'0.12 km
📍
09:58 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
Discover this 16th-century Renaissance jewel featuring a striking clock tower; make sure to photograph its facade in the clear and bright morning light.
🚗 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:46 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Admire the impressive architectural details of this peaceful church, and do not forget to look up to see the beautifully crafted historical pipe organ inside.
🚗 13'3.11 km
📍
11:49 · 60'
Huttenheim Lake
A secluded and tranquil lake good for dedicated nature lovers; bring binoculars as this uncrowded spot frequently attracts a variety of local wildlife.
🚗 16'4.02 km
📍
13:05 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
Enjoy the local lake for a peaceful stroll or a refreshing summer dip; pack a light picnic to fully experience the beauty of nature away from the city center.
🚗 15'3.46 km
📍
14:05 · 60'
La Zembs River
Walk along the pristine banks of this river for excellent birdwatching, and remember to apply insect repellent, especially during the late afternoon hours.
09:00→15:3510.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 20–28 €Entries 22€ · Transport 2€
Drive comfortably through the rainy town, hopping out with an umbrella to see the park, town hall, and church. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the local lakes and river. Appreciate the moody, wet landscapes from the warmth of your car, stepping out only briefly to avoid getting totally soaked.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
Keep a large umbrella handy in the trunk; you can safely take a quick, well-sheltered stroll to see the historic walls in the light rain.
🚗 3'0.12 km
📍
09:58 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
Park safely nearby and admire the beautiful building's reflection in the large puddles before warmly hurrying back into your dry car.
🚗 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:46 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
Safely dash from your car directly into the completely dry, welcoming interior of the church to escape the persistent heavy rain showers.
🚗 13'3.11 km
📍
11:49 · 60'
Huttenheim Lake
Enjoy the wonderfully atmospheric, misty views over the open water directly from your car window, staying warm and completely dry inside.
🚗 16'4.02 km
📍
13:05 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
The driving rain makes the lake look beautifully wild; pull over safely for a quick photo but watch for very slippery, muddy verges.
🚗 15'3.46 km
📍
14:05 · 60'
La Zembs River
The wild river flows strongly in the heavy rain; you can easily appreciate the dynamic landscape from the comfort of your heated vehicle.
09:00→15:3510.8 km drive6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 20–28 €Entries 22€ · Transport 2€
Enjoy a warm drive through Benfeld on a cold winter day. Visit the town center landmarks quickly before the cold really sets in. Drive out to the frosty lakes in the afternoon for stunning winter views. Aim to complete your route before 17:00, when the early dark and freezing evening fog arrive.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Square du Rempart
The historic park looks magical covered in morning frost; step out briefly but keep the car heater running for your quick, warm return.
🚗 3'0.12 km
📍
09:58 · 45'
Benfeld Town Hall
The bright winter sunshine highlights the building’s details beautifully; roads around the center might be slick with dangerous black ice.
🚗 3'0.07 km
⛪
10:46 · 50'
Saint-Laurent Church
A truly great place to warm up; step inside safely out of the biting cold to appreciate the peaceful, quiet, and frost-free atmosphere.
🚗 13'3.11 km
📍
11:49 · 60'
Huttenheim Lake
The crisp winter landscape is deeply sweeping here; you might even safely see some ice forming on the quiet edges of the water.
🚗 16'4.02 km
📍
13:05 · 45'
Benfeld Lake
The completely bare winter trees surrounding the lake create a dramatic scene; enjoy the pristine views directly from your warm car.
🚗 15'3.46 km
📍
14:05 · 60'
La Zembs River
Arrive completely safely just as the golden hour hits before the 17:00 sunset, casting a beautiful warm light over the frosty riverbanks.
Sights in the town Benfeld (8)
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Benfeld Town Hall?
The town hall features a famous astronomical clock with automaton figures (Stubhans) that strike the time.
Where can you go swimming in Benfeld?
The 'Plan d'eau de Benfeld' is a supervised swimming lake with a sandy beach, handy for families in summer.
How far is it to Strasbourg?
Benfeld is about 30 km south of Strasbourg and reachable by train (TER) in less than 20 minutes.
Which Alsatian specialty should you try here?
In local restaurants, Flammekueche (tarte flambée) is a classic, often served with local white wine.
Are there historical buildings in the center?
Yes, the 'Maison du Tabac' and several half-timbered houses from the 16th and 18th centuries define the townscape.
Benfeld: where is it located?
Benfeld is located in Grand Est, France.
Benfeld: what is there to see?
Highlights include Benfeld Town Hall, Saint-Laurent Church, Plan d'eau de Benfeld.
Benfeld: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Benfeld: why is it worth visiting?
Benfeld is a characterful Alsatian town located in the Bas-Rhin department of eastern France, set in the fertile Ill river valley.
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