The French city of Strasbourg offers historical architecture, a culinary scene that is amongst the best in the region and world-famous wines.
Modern Strasbourg is characterized by its medieval center, museums and award-winning restaurants. Getting around is easy as Strasbourg’s streets are flat and perfect for walking. Alternatively, rent a bike and follow the city’s cycling trails, which form the largest network in France.
The Grande Île (Large Island) is Strasbourg’s historic core and is encircled by the River Ill. In 1998, it became the first city center to receive World Heritage status. A series of bridges cross the River Ill, and connect Grande Ile to the rest of the city. On Grande Île you’ll find major city attractions, including the Gothic Cathédrale de Notre-Dame de Strasbourg (Strasbourg Cathedral) and Kammerzell House, one of the city’s most famous buildings. Don’t miss out on the Petite France district. This area is known for the half-timbered homes that line its water-level streets. Nearby, at Vauban Dam you can enjoy views of Strasbourg and its waterways. Spend an afternoon enjoying the gardens of Parc de l’Orangerie or Parc de la Citadelle.
Place Kléber, a large square in the middle of Stasbourg’s commercial center, is ideal for people-watching and admiring centuries-old buildings. Strasbourg was founded by the Romans in 12 B.C. The city passed between French and German hands during the 19th and 20th centuries before being liberated by General Leclerc in 1944.
Learn about the culture of the Alsace region at the Alsatian Museum. Find work by Monet and Picasso at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Younger visitors will enjoy the hands-on exhibits at Le Vaisseau science and technology museum. Entrance to all Strasbourg’s museums is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Strasbourg’s culinary scene draws from the best of French and German cuisine. Choose from one of the many restaurants serving traditional cuisine and enjoy specialities such as choucroute garnie (dressed sauerkraut) or baeckeoffe (marinated meats cooked with vegetables for at least three hours) with a glass of local wine.
Strasbourg
Where to stay in Strasbourg
City-Centre - Petite France
Travelers love City-Centre - Petite France for its stunning cathedral, and you can see more of Strasbourg by jumping on the metro at Langstross Grand'Rue Tram Station or Place Broglie Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Place Kléber and Kammerzell House.
Historic Center
Consider a visit to Kammerzell House and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Historic Center. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Place Broglie Tram Stop or Langstross Grand'Rue Tram Station.
Petite-France
Spend some time visiting places like Covered Bridge while getting to know Petite-France, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Alt Winmarik Tram Station or Langstross Grand'Rue Tram Station to see more of the area.
Quartier de la Gare
While you're in Quartier de la Gare, take in top sights like Train Station Square or Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Faubourg National Tram Station or Gare Centrale Tram Station.
Krutenau
You might enjoy the historic sites while in Krutenau. Alsatian Museum is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Porte de l'Hopital Tram Station or Etoile Bourse Tram Station to see more of the city.
Forêt Noire
If you're spending some time in Forêt Noire, Botanical Gardens and Strasbourg Observatory are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on 2023/12/17
Reviewed on 2024/4/13
Reviewed on 2024/4/17
Reviewed on 2023/12/17
Reviewed on 2024/4/6
Reviewed on 2022/12/25
Popular places to visit
Train Station Square
Enjoy views of the impressive futuristic train station from this green, pedestrianized plaza at Strasbourg’s core.
Strasbourg Cathedral
Find out why literary masters, such as Goethe and Victor Hugo, heaped praise on this remarkable, pink-hued cathedral.
Strasbourg Christmas Market
During your visit to Strasbourg, you can do some window-shopping at Strasbourg Christmas Market. Make time for the stunning cathedral and local tours in this walkable area.
European Parliament
After visiting European Parliament, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Strasbourg. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Place Kléber
You can learn about the history of Strasbourg when you stop by Place Kléber. Visit the shops and stunning cathedral in this walkable area.
Parc de l'Orangerie
Amble along the lakeside and paddle a row boat across the water in these historic grounds that date back to the 17th century.
