Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in northeastern France, is a city renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Situated on the border with Germany, Strasbourg embodies a unique blend of French and German influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. The city is also home to several important European institutions, including the European Parliament. Here are some of the best places to visit in Strasbourg, France:
1. Cathedral of Notre Dame de Strasbourg
The Strasbourg Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, is an iconic Gothic masterpiece and one of the tallest medieval buildings in Europe. The cathedral features intricate stained glass windows, an astronomical clock, and a stunning facade adorned with sculptures.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, astronomical clock, panoramic views from the tower.
- Activities: Exploring the interior, climbing the tower, attending a mass.
- Location: Place de la Cathédrale, Strasbourg.
2. Petite France
Petite France is a charming historic quarter known for its half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and picturesque canals. This area was once home to tanners, millers, and fishermen, and it retains a quaint, medieval atmosphere.
- Key Attractions: Half-timbered houses, scenic canals, cobblestone streets.
- Activities: Walking tours, photography, dining in local restaurants.
- Location: Grande Île, Strasbourg.
3. Palais Rohan
The Palais Rohan is a grand palace that houses three museums: the Musée des Beaux-Arts (Fine Arts Museum), the Musée Archéologique (Archaeological Museum), and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Museum of Decorative Arts). The palace itself is an excellent example of French Baroque architecture.
- Key Attractions: Art and history museums, Baroque architecture.
- Activities: Exploring museum exhibits, admiring the palace architecture.
- Location: Place du Château, Strasbourg.
4. La Petite France Locks
The locks in La Petite France, known as Barrage Vauban, are an engineering marvel and a historic site. The covered bridge and the panoramic terrace offer beautiful views of the old town and the Ill River.
- Key Attractions: Historical engineering, panoramic views.
- Activities: Walking, sightseeing, photography.
- Location: Barrage Vauban, Strasbourg.
5. European Parliament
The European Parliament in Strasbourg is one of the key institutions of the European Union. The modern building is an architectural highlight, and visitors can take guided tours to learn about the EU’s workings and see the impressive Hemicycle.
- Key Attractions: Modern architecture, Hemicycle.
- Activities: Guided tours, learning about the EU.
- Location: Allée du Printemps, Strasbourg.
6. Musée Alsacien
The Musée Alsacien is dedicated to the folk culture and traditions of the Alsace region. The museum is housed in a series of old Strasbourg houses and features exhibits on local costumes, furniture, tools, and everyday life.
- Key Attractions: Folk culture exhibits, historical artifacts.
- Activities: Exploring the exhibits, learning about Alsatian culture.
- Location: Quai Saint-Nicolas, Strasbourg.
7. Parc de l’Orangerie
Parc de l’Orangerie is a beautiful park and a popular recreational area in Strasbourg. The park features a small zoo, a boating lake, a rose garden, and picturesque pathways, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
- Key Attractions: Rose garden, small zoo, boating lake.
- Activities: Walking, picnicking, boating.
- Location: Avenue de l’Europe, Strasbourg.
8. Eglise Saint-Thomas
Eglise Saint-Thomas is a notable Protestant church in Strasbourg, known for its Gothic architecture and significant historical role during the Reformation. The church is also famous for its impressive Silbermann organ.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, Silbermann organ.
- Activities: Exploring the church, attending organ concerts.
- Location: Rue Martin Luther, Strasbourg.
9. Place Kléber
Place Kléber is the largest square in Strasbourg and a central gathering place for locals and tourists. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and is home to various shops, cafes, and a large Christmas market during the holiday season.
- Key Attractions: Historic buildings, shopping, Christmas market.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, exploring the market.
- Location: Central Strasbourg.
10. Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
The Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMCS) features an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by renowned artists such as Gustave Doré and Jean Arp. The museum’s modern architecture and scenic location along the Ill River make it a must-visit.
- Key Attractions: Modern and contemporary art collections, scenic river views.
- Activities: Exploring art exhibits, attending events.
- Location: Place Hans Jean Arp, Strasbourg.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Distance from City Center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cathedral of Notre Dame | Iconic Gothic cathedral | Gothic architecture, astronomical clock | Place de la Cathédrale |
| Petite France | Charming historic quarter | Half-timbered houses, canals | Grande Île, Strasbourg |
| Palais Rohan | Grand palace housing three museums | Art and history museums, Baroque architecture | Place du Château |
| La Petite France Locks | Historical locks and covered bridge | Historical engineering, panoramic views | Barrage Vauban |
| European Parliament | Key EU institution | Modern architecture, Hemicycle | Allée du Printemps |
| Musée Alsacien | Museum of Alsatian folk culture | Folk culture exhibits, historical artifacts | Quai Saint-Nicolas |
| Parc de l’Orangerie | Beautiful park with recreational facilities | Rose garden, small zoo | Avenue de l’Europe |
| Eglise Saint-Thomas | Notable Protestant church | Gothic architecture, Silbermann organ | Rue Martin Luther |
| Place Kléber | Largest square in Strasbourg | Historic buildings, shopping, Christmas market | Central Strasbourg |
| Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art | Extensive collection of modern and contemporary art | Modern art, river views | Place Hans Jean Arp |
How to Reach Strasbourg
By Flight
Strasbourg Airport (Aéroport de Strasbourg-Entzheim) is located about 10 km southwest of the city center. The airport offers domestic and international flights and is well-connected to major European cities. From the airport, you can reach the city center by train, taxi, or shuttle bus.
By Train
Strasbourg is a major railway hub in northeastern France. The Strasbourg-Ville railway station is well-connected to major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, as well as to international destinations like Germany and Switzerland.
By Road
Strasbourg is accessible via several major highways, including the A4, A35, and A351. The city is well-connected by road to other parts of France and neighboring countries. Regular buses and car rental services are available for travel within the region.
Best Time to Visit Strasbourg
The best time to visit Strasbourg is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is particularly enchanting during the Christmas season, from late November to December, when the famous Christmas markets are in full swing.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Strasbourg offers a unique blend of French and German cuisine. Don’t miss trying local specialties like tarte flambée (Alsatian flatbread), choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages), and kougelhopf (a traditional cake).
- Cultural Insights: Strasbourg is known for its rich cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year. The city is also a hub for European politics, hosting several key EU institutions.
- Safety Tips: Strasbourg is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to the Cathedral of Notre Dame and climb the tower for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Explore Petite France and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Visit the Musée Alsacien for a taste of local culture.
- Evening: Stroll along the La Petite France Locks and enjoy the views. End the day with dinner at one of the traditional Alsatian restaurants.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a visit to the Palais Rohan and its museums. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the European Parliament. Spend the evening in Place Kléber, exploring the shops and cafes.
- Day 2: Visit the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in the morning. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Parc de l’Orangerie. End the day with a visit to Eglise Saint-Thomas and dinner in Petite France.
These places offer a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making Strasbourg a diverse and captivating destination to explore.
