It is not always necessary to travel to Paris to feel the French culture. Strasbourg, a small French city has so much to offer.
The spring had just begun and it was the perfect time for the visit as it was bright and sunny.
Coming from Stuttgart, a city that has a lot of Asian origins like Turkish, and Indian, my first impression of Strasbourg was truly French. I could spot only locals dressed up traditionally and hardly any Asians. This Strasbourg travel guide shows you the 11 best things to do in the French border city.
Blog Contents
Strasbourg facts
- France’s seventh-largest city, Strasbourg architecture is unique.
- The central part of the city is listed as UNESCO World Heritage since 1988.
- It is also the official seat of the European Parliament.
- Located in the northeastern part of France, this city forms its border with Germany.
11 best things to do in Strasbourg
Having traveled around Europe for the past few years, I saw few places are common such as cathedrals, the main squares, rivers, parks, viewpoints, stadiums, and museums, and Strasbourg is no exemption.
Just like any other European city, most of the places are coverable on foot.
1. Strasbourg Cathedral
Our first stop was the Strasbourg cathedral. We got down at Langstross/Grand Rue stop and made our way on foot to the cathedral. It is a truly marvelous structure and a masterpiece of Western architecture.
We reached at 10 am and already there was a long queue. Not a big fan of cathedrals, we clicked a few pics and moved.
There is a tourist info point beside the cathedral where you can find more info. We bought the Tourist map for 1.5 €.
This is handier than google maps as it has a list of all places to see in proper order. We recommend that you have a basic travel plan in advance.
2. Boat ride
You can also enjoy a Batorama, Strasbourg boat trip. The ticket office is located at Place de la Cathedrale, close to the boarding point.
This ride gently passes through all the main attractions, canals and gives an idea to pick your choice.
The trip price varies according to the duration of the tour. A guided tour is available in 12 languages. Each vessel also contains a free WC.
3. La Petite France
This lively neighborhood is famous for its canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved half-timbered home. You can stroll through these streets and admire their beauty.
Lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes make this place vibrant. We also enjoyed watching a small bridge rotate by 90 °, making way for bigger boats to pass through.
4. Pont Couverts
Pont Couverts meaning ‘covered bridges’ is a set of four towers and three bridges that were erected on the river Ill. This viewpoint is one of the top attractions in Strasbourg
They were constructed as a part of defensive work in the 13th century. These bridges from the 1600s, now form a perfect backdrop for pictures.
The best part is that you even can climb on top of the bridge for a stunning view over the river Ill. This was by far the best thing in Strasbourg.
During our visit, this terrace was completely covered by a guided Chinese tour over, and to our surprise, they clicked a group photo with us.
5. European Parliament
The European Parliament is located a little outside the city and can be reached by tram E.
The visit includes 60 min tour of Hemicycle and the parliamentarian Simone Veil.
During our visit, there was some protest held outside the gate, and hence entry was prohibited. The complete Parliament was secured by Police forces.
There is also a park nearby where you can take a quick break.
One day is not enough to visit all the places. We did not have enough time to explore more.
So, if you have more than a day in Strasbourg, you can also consider visiting
6. Place Kleber
Just like other European cities, this area is typically a large square located right in the middle. It is also a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
7. Palace Rohan
One of the finest creations of the 18th century, this palace was built to resemble one of the great Parisian mansions. It was built, decorated, and furnished in just ten years.
8. Alsatian Museum
Opened in 1907, the museum displays over 5000 artifact collections, furniture, costumes, and domestic items that give the feel of traditional Alsatian homes.
One can truly witness the daily life of Alsatians in the 18th and 19th centuries in this museum.
9. Historical Museum
Among various museums in Strasbourg, this one offers Strasbourg’s history. From the Middle Ages to the French Revolution, a collection of paintings, weapons, and everyday objects are exhibited.
More info can be found here.
10. The Orangerie Park
This is Strasbourg’s oldest park and a perfect destination for joggers, nature lovers. It also hosts receptions, exhibitions, and many cultural events.
11. Christmas market
If you visit during December, don’t miss the Christmas market. It is one of the oldest and largest in Europe.
It lasts for a month starting from the 3rd week of November till the 3rd week of December.
Visit the Strasbourg tourist information center for more information about various activities.
How to reach Strasbourg
My trip began from Stuttgart main station. It was a 3-hour journey and had two connections, one at Karlsruhe and the other at Appenweier.
By regional train
A Baden Wuerttemberg ticket (BWT) is a state ticket valid on all public transport in the state. We purchased BWT and this is valid only till Kehl (A town on the German border).
Read more about Regional day tickets in Germany.
Even though the connection from Appenweier continues till Strasbourg, we got down in Kehl because of the BWT restrictions.
Once you exit the train station, there is a tram stop just across the street.
Strasbourg public transport
Exploring Strasbourg by public transport is quite comfortable as the city has an extensive network of trams, buses, and trains.
The 24-hour pass for one person is 4.6€. The same costs 6.9€ for a group of up to 3 people. This pass allows you to use all public transport in Strasbourg.
Tram D goes to the city centre and it is the only tram operating from Kehl station. It crosses through the river Rhine and the view is splendid. Now you are officially in France.
On our way back, we walked through the amazing Rhine Bridge. Overall if you want to enjoy a day in a famous French city with fewer tourists, then Strasbourg is a perfect choice.
Overall experience:
out of 5.
Time of visit: March 2018
”If you never go, you will never know” – Anonymous