Strasbourg cannot fit in a single box. Is it a French city? Yes. Is it a German city? A bit of. Both simultaneously? Exactly. It is located on the border, and it carries the traces of each. The streets show it. A corner is like Paris, and another is reminiscent of a small German village. Then you’re right in the middle of Europe’s contemporary political central.
It’s a city that is full of contrasts. It is a Gothic cathedral that dominates the city’s skyline. The narrow canals are lined with fairy-tale homes. Glass structures where European laws are discussed—food that is delicious in one moment, but delicate in the following.
What should you do? These are the 15 best thing to do in Strasbourg. Some of them are famous. Some are not so famous. It’s all worth it.
1. Strasbourg Cathedral
Strasbourg’s cathedral is hard to overlook. The spire seems to reach into the sky, and is tall enough to render the surrounding city appear smaller. Enter the square, and the building engulfs your attention. The square is awash with carvings, statues gazing down, shadows sweeping across the stone.
Step into the space. The light from the stained glass splashes all over your floor. Arches are higher than you expected. The clock is ticking away on the wall, old and alive, attracting people as if it were a stage performance.
What is the climb up to that tower? It’s not an easy climb. There are stairs that are narrow, and many of them. However, the view from the summit — the roofs or rivers, or even at times the Black Forest on the horizon is the reward. The cathedral isn’t just a symbol. It’s also the heart of Strasbourg.
2. La Petite France
If a photo of Strasbourg is seen on postcards, it’s likely taken from La Petite France. The area has a distinct charm. The timber-framed houses incline towards one another as if sharing secrets. Canals swoop between cobblestones as well as bridges. Flowers spill out of window boxes.
It’s busy but worth it. Cafés line the water offering wine and tarte flambee. The early mornings are peaceful, ideal for a quiet walk or photo shoot without crowds. Evenings are a party with people drinking a glass of wine and conversation sweeping through the canals.
La Petite France is the classic that never gets tired. Gorgeous, atmospheric and among the most enjoyable activities to experience in Strasbourg.
3. Palais Rohan
Grand. It’s what you first see. Palais Rohan was once the palace of the princes and bishops. It now houses three museums in its own building. Fine Arts, Archaeology, Decorative Arts. Each of them is worth at minimum an hour’s walk.
Fine Art covers the ages of European painting. Archaeology is a deep dive into Roman history, and perhaps earlier. Decorative Arts feels like walking through a castle preserved in time, featuring tapestries, porcelain and lavishly decorated rooms.
Although museums aren’t generally the norm, however, the structure is worth a visit. It’s formal, elegant, and brimming with history.
4. Strasbourg Christmas Market
The month of December is a major change in the world of Strasbourg. Strasbourg is now the capital of Christmas and does live up to its title. Stalls of wood fill the squares. The aroma of mulled wine is a blend of roasted chestnuts. Lights flutter over the streets like streams of stars.
The first market date to 1570, which makes it one of the oldest markets in Europe. The market in Kleber has a massive tree that is decorated and shines over the crowds.
It’s not just about shopping. It’s about the mood. Family, music, dressed in scarves or shawls, and strangers sitting at tables. An annual Christmas marketplace that is like a big celebration for the entire city.
5. European Parliament
It’s not all old-fashioned here. Strasbourg is also known as a place of political activity. Strasbourg is also a city of politics. The European Parliament is housed in a glass structure that resembles the future rather than the past. Tours allow visitors to enter the hemicycle, which is the massive chamber where the debates take place. Exhibits explain what it is that the European Union does and what takes place within the building. It’s strikingly different from the medieval heart of. One part of the city is a testament to the past. Another side points straight towards the future of Europe.
6. Parc de l’Orangerie
Are you in need of an escape? Parc de l’Orangerie is where people go when they feel the city is too noisy. It’s peaceful, tranquil and more seasoned than the majority of parks in France.
The lakes are dotted with swans, pathways covered by large trees and grasses in which people can picnic. Families enjoy it due to the zoo’s small size and playgrounds. Couples hire rowboats to float in the water. Take a look up at the rooftops and trees. Storks have a home in this area — the iconic symbol of Alsace. Charming, peaceful and easy to get attached to.
7. Musee Alsacien
Many museums are not focused on battles, kings or queens. This one, Musee Alsacien, focuses on daily life. Visit old townhouses and observe how people lived hundreds of years ago.
Rooms feature furniture from the past as well as costumes, toys, and tools. Kitchens that have clay ovens. Bedrooms with cradles made of wood. Even a wine cellar that has been reconstructed. It is a personal experience. Museums that tell the stories of everyday families. Small, quiet, yet packed with personality.
8. Barrage Vauban
Barrage Vauban is a dam that’s part bridge, and part fortress. It was constructed in the 1600s, and it was once a vital element for the defenses of the city. People visit today to take in the view. A path runs along the top, providing an expansive view that includes La Petite France and the Ponts Couverts below. Inside, exhibits explain the historical significance. Go at sunset. The canals are lit up and the towers shimmer in the water, and Strasbourg appears at its best.
9. Ponts Couverts
Three towers. Stone bridges. They are surrounded by water. The Ponts Couverts were once the guardians of the city. The bridges lack coverings; however, the towers rise tall with pride. Moreover, photographers capture this spot among the most iconic sights in Strasbourg. In fact, visitors admire it often, and therefore it holds its place as a well-founded favorite. The reflections of the water are stunning. From here, you can be able to see the Vauban Dam further away. The evening is the most enjoyable moment to be in the city. The lights shine brightly on the towers and make the view look like a picture.
10. Boat Tour on the Ill River
Strasbourg is located in a water-filled area, which is why watching it from boats is a natural. Tours are offered through the Ill River, circling the historic city center before heading towards Strasbourg’s European Parliament. The journey is slow but steady. It passes through bridges, cruises along La Petite France, and goes through glass-clad buildings of the future. The commentary explains the story; however, the main attraction is the perspective. Simple, simple, tranquil, and a great method to view your city’s sights from an entirely different perspective.
11. Neustadt District
Neustadt District looks different from the old town. It was built during the German rule in the 19th century. It’s bigger, more impressive and more impressive. Boulevards are laid out along straight lines. Government buildings are constructed of stone. Fountains provide a sense of order and class. It’s formal when compared to the quaint avenues that are La Petite France. However, that is an aspect of Strasbourg’s history that is worth investigating.
12. Église Saint-Thomas
The Église Saint Thomas is not competing with the cathedral’s size, but it does have its own worth—a simple Protestant church on the outside, serene in the interior. The most notable of the organs is the Silbermann organ. Mozart performed it at least once. Organ concerts continue to be held in the church, filling it with loud sounds. It’s more peaceful than other attractions and less crowded, but it’s worth the trip to get inside for a minute in peace.
13. Place Kleber
Place Kleber is the main square. It is the place where people gather to shop, meet, or simply go by on their way elsewhere. Always busy, always lively. The month of December is when it turns magical. The city’s huge Christmas tree is here, sparkling and decorated in the middle of holiday celebrations. In other seasons, there are events, markets, or serve as the perfect spot to sit at an eatery and observe the bustle of life.
14. Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
The museum is massive. The collection spans from the period of the 19th century until the present, including artworks of Monet, Picasso, Kandinsky and others. The structure is made of glass and steel, flooded with light. Inside, there are sculptures, paintings, photographs, as well as temporary exhibits. The rooftop terrace offers one of the most stunning views of the city. It demonstrates that Strasbourg isn’t only about the past. It also celebrates the latest in creativity.
15. Alsatian Cuisine
Strasbourg is also known for its cuisine. The local cuisine combines French and German flavours, resulting in dishes that are filling and full of personality. Tarte Flambee offers a popular thin flatbread topped with onions, cream, and bacon, while Choucroute garnie features hearty sauerkraut cooked with sausages and other meats.
Baeckeoffe is a stew that cooks slowly. To finish, you can have kougelhopf, an oblong-shaped cake that is soft and sweet. It is a great match with local wines, such as Riesling, as well as Gewurztraminer. The best spot to enjoy these meals is in a wintub Tavern, a classic establishment with wood interiors and a warm feeling.
Travel Tips For Strasbourg
- The best time to visit Strasbourg is in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
- Strasbourg is very walkable, but trams and buses are reliable and easy to use for longer distances.
- A boat tour on the Ill River is one of the easiest ways to understand the city’s layout.
- The city is famous for Christmas markets, so book accommodation early if you plan to visit in December.
- Try local dishes such as tarte flambée and choucroute garnie in a winstub for the most authentic experience.
- Many museums are free on the first Sunday of each month, which makes it a good day for culture lovers.
- Carry some cash for small cafés and markets, although most places accept cards.
- Storks are a symbol of Alsace, and Parc de l’Orangerie is the best place to see them.
- Therefore, learn a few basic French phrases such as “bonjour” and “merci,” since people always appreciate them.
Conclusion
Strasbourg isn’t a single thing. It’s a lot of things. A cathedral that is the most prominent in the skyline. The canals are a quarter that looks like a picture. A Parliament building that represents Europe. Squares, parks, museums and food joints that draw the city to one another.
The 15 things to do in Strasbourg expose every facet of Strasbourg. Walk, taste, pay attention and take a look. Strasbourg rewards those who take their time.