Things To Do
in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of the Grand Est region and a key EU hub with a rich blend of cultures. The city pairs Alsatian charm—half-timbered houses, winding canals, and the iconic cathedral—with modern institutions and a lively culinary scene. Its Grande Île UNESCO-listed center is walkable and picturesque, especially around La Petite France.
The cuisine leans French-German, with standout wines from nearby Alsace and hearty, comforting dishes to match the climate.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a freshly baked pastry and coffee at a cozy café in the heart of Strasbourg. Stroll through the picturesque streets of La Petite France, marveling at the half-timbered houses and the serene canals. Visit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, where you can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
After lunch at a local bistro, continue exploring the historic center with a guided walking tour that delves into the city's rich history and culture. Admire the intricate architectural details of the Palais Rohan and learn about its significance in French history. Don't miss a visit to the Alsatian Museum, showcasing the region's unique heritage.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant, sampling dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute. After your meal, take a scenic evening boat cruise along the Ill River to see the city illuminated at night. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the charming streets, soaking in the magical atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the European Parliament, where you can join a guided tour to learn about its role in European governance. Explore the modern architecture of the European institutions in the European Quarter, taking in the striking design of the buildings. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, reflecting on the significance of Strasbourg as the seat of European democracy.
After lunch, head to the Council of Europe for a guided tour to understand its mission and the importance of human rights in Europe. Spend some time in the Parc de l'Engen, enjoying the lush greenery and tranquility amidst the busy city. Visit the nearby Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art to appreciate contemporary works from local and international artists.
For dinner, savor international cuisine at a restaurant in the European Quarter, enjoying the diverse flavors that reflect the city's multiculturalism. After dinner, take a stroll along the Rhine River, where you can catch glimpses of the illuminated bridges and waterfront. End your evening at a local wine bar, sampling some fine Alsatian wines.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way public transport | $2-3 |
| 🍷Glass of wine in a restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural scene with a blend of French and German influences
- Beautiful historic center (UNESCO) and canals
- Efficient public transport and walkable center
- Excellent Alsatian cuisine and wine
- Close proximity to the Vosges for day trips
- Can be crowded in summer and around Christmas markets
- Higher prices in tourist areas
- Some areas feel very touristy in La Petite France
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
Places to Visit in Strasbourg
Visit one of these nice places.
A Gothic masterpiece with a striking façade, flying buttresses, and an astronomical clock.
Canal-side half-timbered houses and charming bridges offer quintessential 'postcard' shots.
Historic towers and a waterway viewpoint ideal for golden-hour photography.
Lakes, swans, and ornamental gardens provide serene photo opportunities.
Food in Strasbourg
Strasbourg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A paper-thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons; traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven.
Must-Try!
Sauerkraut cooked with a variety of sausages and pork, a robust Alsatian staple.
A slow-braised casserole of marinated meat, potatoes, and vegetables, reflecting communal cooking traditions.
A fragrant yeasted cake with raisins and almonds, often enjoyed with coffee or dessert wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main city market with fresh produce, cheeses, pretzels, and seasonal specialties year-round.
Small market stalls around the historic district offering regional snacks and artisanal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Start with 'Bonjour' (hello) and 'Merci' (thank you). Basic politeness matters in interactions.
Be punctual for reservations; crowds around peak hours are common in dining areas.
Safety
Tipping in Strasbourg
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is usually included (service compris). Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if not included.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments popular. Cash is fine, but smaller venues may prefer cards; ATMs available citywide.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blossoms in parks, great for city walks and cafe terraces.
Warm days and long evenings; peak tourist season with lively events and river activities.
Colorful foliage, wine fairs, and harvest markets in the city and nearby vineyards.
Enchanting Christmas markets fill the squares; expect cold temps, festive lights, and seasonal treats.
Strasbourg at Night
Hiking in Strasbourg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested ascent to the Donon hill with viewpoints over the Alsace plain; moderate difficulty and rewarding views.
Multi-use trails through forests and sandstone outcrops in a regional natural park; suitable for day hikes.
Iconic Vosges peaks offering panoramic views; accessible as day trips from Strasbourg with marked routes.
Airports
How to reach Strasbourg by plane.
Small international airport with connections to European cities; convenient for entering the Alsace region; about 15-20 minutes from the city by car.
Major international airport near Basel, Mulhouse and Freiburg; 1-2 hours by rail or car from Strasbourg; good option for long-haul connections via Basel.
Regional airport in Germany with several European connections; about 1-1.5 hours by train or car to Strasbourg.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A cultural blend of French and German influences affecting language and traditions.
Presence of universities and European institutions contributes to a diverse, international population.
Year-round visitors drawn by cuisine, culture, and proximity to wine routes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and fans with a vibrant culture, especially during European matches.
Extensive bike paths and proximity to the Vosges provide scenic routes and day trips.
Rowing and other water activities on the Ill River and canals in good weather.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Strasbourg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for cheese, mushroom, or vegetable-forward plates and ask to omit lardons or meat-based broths.