Obernai is a small town east of France, close to the German border. If you are planing to visit multiple countries, it is a good location to set camp.
Weather
I went there at the end of June and the weather was just perfect, with temperatures in the 30s C and cooler during the night, as low as 17ºC-20ºc. During the night I would say you need a jumper if you plan to stay out for longer.
Transport
Being a small town they don’t have a developed transport network, except a main train station and vans that connect Obernai with different other towns. Everyone there owns a car. If you are visiting by car you can park in the old town for free in the white lines bays or park in a paying area. It’s not that expensive anyway.
Culture
I’ve been to different places in France now and I can say people different from one area to another. Everything in Obernai is organised, the people from the hotel were nice, but when in the old town I can say they weren’t making you feel that welcomed. But then again, I did not interact with too many people there and this might be just a first impression. Those places have a lot of beautiful history which is waiting to be discovered.
Attractions
The Obernai old town is idyllic. The architecture of the buildings and the intimacy of the stone paved streets gave me a feeling of a scene in Aterix an Obelix. If this is not on your travel list note it down now and plan your visit. It is there where you’ll find all sorts of art, food shops and restaurants that might delight your senses. I only spent a few hours there and did not manage to eat in any of the restaurants because, one, we were late for lunch and second, no one was coming to take the order. We found the service very poor, but considering the beauty of the places I am willing to give it another chance some other time. Just be careful that restaurants have strange opening hours, closing mid day and opening late afternoon.
Nightlife
Being a small town I’m thinking there isn’t much nightlife to enjoy except going out for dinner or attending a planned party. I’m hoping its more than that.
Shopping
For satisfying your shopping addiction head to the old town and you might get yourself a collectable.
Food
Because of the poor service in open locations and the fact that some were closing or not coming to take the order I had no chance to enjoy any savoury. I was hungry for a main and couldn’t have any sugars, but they have sweet shops all over with enough diversity to surprise. You will love being there.
Accommodation
One of the best locations to stay in, and a new build, is Residence Oneloft on Rue de Pully. The apartments and rooms are amazing, although room service is by request. I recommend it for ease of access, comfort and utilities. You’ve got everything from spoons to microwave and a restaurant on the ground floor.
Obernai, definitely a town to visit and explore more than I did.
Travel yourself to life!
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