Strasbourg, France
Locavy ratings
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
2.5/5
Value
2/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
4/5
Party
3.5/5
Sightseeing
4/5
Relaxation
2.5/5
Value
2/5
Transport Links
4/5
Experiences
4/5
At a glance
Nestled on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in France and a must-see for any traveler.
Party
Strasbourg offers a lively nightlife scene, driven by its status as a major city and a bustling student population. While it may not rival the French Riviera in terms of quantity, it still provides a vibrant and energetic night out, with hotspots like rue des Juifs and rue des Frères ensuring a lively atmosphere.
Sightseeing
A visit to Strasbourg must include witnessing the mesmerizing automations on the astronomical clock, a true spectacle. Additionally, exploring the iconic half-timbered houses, there’s nowhere else quite like it in the world. For the most comprehensive experience, consider a walking tour, especially if your time in the city is limited, as it allows you to fully immerse yourself in its many attractions.
Relaxation
With crowded streets and a long distacne away from the coast, relaxation opportunites in Strasbourg are limited. There are still opportunites for relaxation during your visit, if you enjoy simply sitting and people-watching, savouring a drink in the tranquil Kléber Square can be a delightful way to unwind in the evening.
Value
Strasbourg tends to be on the expensive side, ranking second only to Paris in terms of dining and accommodation costs compared to many other French cities. Nevertheless, you’ll find that activities are surprisingly affordable, particularly when utilising the Strasbourg city pass, which offers valuable discounts on various attractions and experiences throughout the city.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Strasbourg Airport offers exceptional convenience, situated a mere 10-minute train ride from the city centre. Additionally, you’ll find an abundance of taxis and shuttles readily available to facilitate your airport transfers.
Train
With France having some of the best transport links in Europe, most major cities can be visted by train. Strasbourg-Ville Station is the main train station in Strasbourg that you will be using if you were to visit other notable towns and cities in France, with Paris being around 2 and a half hours away.
Drive
Navigating Central Strasbourg can be a daunting task due to its unique layout as an island city, making driving and parking particularly challenging. However, considering renting a car can enhance your Strasbourg experience by providing easy access to a wealth of exciting day trip opportunities.
Experiences
Explore the iconic La Petite France, a charming district filled with half-timbered houses, cozy eateries, and winding alleys. Delve into history with visits to museums like Musee Alsacien, offering insights into local culture, and MM Park France, a World War II museum. Additionally, indulge in gourmet food tours that showcase the unique fusion of French and German cuisine, providing an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Best Things To Do
1. Spend the day in La Petite France
La Petite France is a small area in Strasbourg where you’ll encounter picturesque half-timbered houses, meandering cobbled alleyways, and an array of quirky bars and restaurants.
For a more relaxed experience, visit La Petite France during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
2. Visit the Astronomical Clock
Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at Strasbourg’s extraordinary Astronomical Clock, located in the Cathédrale Notre-Damethe. This masterpiece constructed in 1843, renowned for its captivating automatons, which spring to life every day at 12:30 pm.
Arrive a little early to secure a good viewing spot and fully appreciate the clock’s intricate details.
3. Day trips
Strasbourg serves as an ideal central hub for captivating day trips, easily accessible by train to destinations like Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and charming French towns like Colmar and even Paris.
Before setting off on your day trip, make sure to check train schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth excursion.
4. Explore the half-timber houses
Discover the city’s history and culture through its vibrant half-timbered houses, each with its unique colour and story, reflecting everything from religious beliefs to the inhabitants’ professions.
Consider joining a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the significance of these colourful facades.
5. Visit Strasbourg’s Cathedral
While in Strasbourg, you have to visit this cathedral. Visible from most party of the city, The Strasbourg Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It’s an iconic landmark and the second most visited cathedral in France.
Climb to the cathedral’s viewing platform for panoramic vistas of the city.
6. Go on a food tour
A perfect activity for foodies, indulge your taste buds with a gourmet food tour in Strasbourg, where French and German culinary traditions blend into a unique gastronomic experience. Only in the Alsace area of France can you find food like this.
Seek out local dishes, such as flammekueche and choucroute garnie, for a true taste of the region.
7. Take a Boat Trip
Experience Strasbourg from a different perspective by embarking on a boat trip along its charming canals, offering a relaxed way to take in the city’s sights.
Opt for an evening boat tour to see the city illuminated and enjoy a romantic dinner on the water.
8. Relax in the Kléber Square
Kléber Square, situated in the heart of Strasbourg, boasts stunning architecture and vibrant bars, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.
Grab a table at one of the square’s cafes, order a glass of Alsace wine, and savour the moment.
9. Museums in Strasbourg
Dive into Strasbourg’s rich history and culture by exploring its diverse range of museums, from the Musee Alsacien, dedicated to the Alsatian way of life, to MM Park France, a WWII museum.
Check museum opening hours in advance and consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple museum visits.
10. Strasbourg at Christmas
Experience the enchantment of Strasbourg’s Christmas market, the oldest in France, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland during December. Held in the Kléber Square, hot food and drinks are sold along with hand crafted memorabilia.
Embrace the festive spirit by indulging in traditional Alsatian treats like bredele cookies and vin chaud (mulled wine).
1. Spend the day in La Petite France
La Petite France is a small area in Strasbourg where you’ll encounter picturesque half-timbered houses, meandering cobbled alleyways, and an array of quirky bars and restaurants.
For a more relaxed experience, visit La Petite France during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
2. Visit the Astronomical Clock
Don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at Strasbourg’s extraordinary Astronomical Clock, located in the Cathédrale Notre-Damethe. This masterpiece constructed in 1843, renowned for its captivating automatons, which spring to life every day at 12:30 pm.
Arrive a little early to secure a good viewing spot and fully appreciate the clock’s intricate details.
3. Day trips
Strasbourg serves as an ideal central hub for captivating day trips, easily accessible by train to destinations like Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and charming French towns like Colmar and even Paris.
Before setting off on your day trip, make sure to check train schedules and book your tickets in advance to ensure a smooth excursion.
4. Explore the half-timber houses
Discover the city’s history and culture through its vibrant half-timbered houses, each with its unique colour and story, reflecting everything from religious beliefs to the inhabitants’ professions.
Consider joining a guided walking tour to gain deeper insights into the significance of these colourful facades.
5. Visit Strasbourg’s Cathedral
While in Strasbourg, you have to visit this cathedral. Visible from most party of the city, The Strasbourg Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It’s an iconic landmark and the second most visited cathedral in France.
Climb to the cathedral’s viewing platform for panoramic vistas of the city.
6. Go on a food tour
A perfect activity for foodies, indulge your taste buds with a gourmet food tour in Strasbourg, where French and German culinary traditions blend into a unique gastronomic experience. Only in the Alsace area of France can you find food like this.
Seek out local dishes, such as flammekueche and choucroute garnie, for a true taste of the region.
7. Take a Boat Trip
Experience Strasbourg from a different perspective by embarking on a boat trip along its charming canals, offering a relaxed way to take in the city’s sights.
Opt for an evening boat tour to see the city illuminated and enjoy a romantic dinner on the water.
8. Relax in the Kléber Square
Kléber Square, situated in the heart of Strasbourg, boasts stunning architecture and vibrant bars, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.
Grab a table at one of the square’s cafes, order a glass of Alsace wine, and savour the moment.
9. Museums in Strasbourg
Dive into Strasbourg’s rich history and culture by exploring its diverse range of museums, from the Musee Alsacien, dedicated to the Alsatian way of life, to MM Park France, a WWII museum.
Check museum opening hours in advance and consider purchasing a combined ticket for multiple museum visits.
10. Strasbourg at Christmas
Experience the enchantment of Strasbourg’s Christmas market, the oldest in France, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland during December. Held in the Kléber Square, hot food and drinks are sold along with hand crafted memorabilia.
Embrace the festive spirit by indulging in traditional Alsatian treats like bredele cookies and vin chaud (mulled wine).
10 Things You Need to know
1.
History to the locals is important
Due to Strasbourg’s complicated history, just as many residents consider themselves German as others do French.
6.
Year-Round Appeal
Strasbourg offers year-round attractions, from summer sunshine to winter’s renowned Christmas markets and quieter spring and autumn seasons.
2.
Strasbourg City Pass
For an optimal Strasbourg experience, the 7-day Strasbourg City Pass offers discounts on activities like boat tours, museums, and bike rentals for just 5 euros per person.
7.
Safety in Strasbourg
Strasbourg boasts low crime rates, ranking among France’s safest cities, though beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
3.
Pedal Through the City
While Strasbourg is highly walkable, renting a bike, a popular choice among locals, is a great way to explore the city’s sites efficiently.
8.
Upscale Experience
Strasbourg’s pricing tends to be higher than other French cities (excluding Paris), particularly for dining and accommodations.
4.
Plan and Prebook
To make the most of your summer visit, prebook activities and restaurants due to high demand. Also when planning to travel to other cities, advance train bookings can also save money.
9.
Tourist Crowds
Expect large tour groups, especially in summer, which can make popular areas like La Petite France crowded; consider an off-season visit.
5.
Beyond the La Petite France district
While La Petite France is renowned, Strasbourg offers much more to explore, including the picturesque Parc de l’Orangerie and the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral.
10.
Crit’Air Sticker when Driving
If driving, ensure you have a Crit’Air sticker, indicating your vehicle’s environmental impact; electric cars are exempt. Lack of one can result in fines.
6.
Year-Round Appeal
Strasbourg offers year-round attractions, from summer sunshine to winter’s renowned Christmas markets and quieter spring and autumn seasons.
7.
Safety in Strasbourg
Strasbourg boasts low crime rates, ranking among France’s safest cities, though beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
8.
Upscale Experience
Strasbourg’s pricing tends to be higher than other French cities (excluding Paris), particularly for dining and accommodations.
9.
Tourist Crowds
Expect large tour groups, especially in summer, which can make popular areas like La Petite France crowded; consider an off-season visit.
10.
Crit’Air Sticker when Driving
If driving, ensure you have a Crit’Air sticker, indicating your vehicle’s environmental impact; electric cars are exempt. Lack of one can result in fines.