If you’re looking for a city that’s got it all, Strasbourg is the place to be. Situated in the east of France on the border with Germany, this city blends together French and German culture in a unique way. From stunning architecture to delicious food, Strasbourg has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for an exciting city break, read on for our list of the top things to do in Strasbourg!
1- Marvel at the Strasbourg Cathedral
Diving straight in with the most recognised structure in Strasbourg, the Strasbourg Cathedral is truly a sight to behold. It is a Roman Catholic cathedral.
It is the seat of the Archbishop of Strasbourg and has been Strasbourg’s main church since the 4th century. The current building was constructed between 1176 and 1439 and is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture.
Strasbourg Cathedral was also the tallest building in the world from 1647 to 1874, when it was surpassed by St. Nikolai Church in Hamburg, Germany.
The cathedral has a wealth of interesting features, including a 500 year old astronomical clock and a 15th century stained glass window that is the largest in Europe. Strasbourg Cathedral is a popular tourist destination and receives over two million visitors each year.
2- Visit Petite France
If you’re looking for things to do in Petite France Strasbourg, you’ve come to the right place. This charming district is full of narrow streets and half-timbered houses, and it’s home to a number of attractions, including the Strasbourg Cathedral and the Palais Rohan.
Petite France is also a great place to sample some of the local specialties, such as choucroute (sauerkraut) and tarte flambée (a thin crust pizza-like dish).
In addition, the district is home to a number of quaint shops and cafés, making it the perfect place to while away an afternoon. So whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just a chance to relax, Petite France is definitely worth a visit.
3- Walk through Barrage Vauban
Barrage Vauban is a historical monument located in the city of Strasbourg. It is an impressive bridge built in the 17th century that was also used as a defensive structure to protect the city from invaders. The Barrage Vauban is named after the French military engineer who designed it, Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban.
It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. Today, the Barrage Vauban is open to the public and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Strasbourg.
When you walk through the lower level passageway, you’ll see a variety of sculptures from various parts of Strasbourg. From the upper level, you can get fab views of the Ponts Couverts of Strasbourg.
The barrage is a gorgeous sight especially at night when it is all lit up.
4- Check out the Ponts Couverts
The Ponts Couverts are a group of three covered bridges in the city of Strasbourg, France. The bridges span the Ill River and connect several island neighborhoods to the mainland.
The Ponts Couverts were built in the 14th century and are named for their unique design. Each bridge is topped with a series of arches, which create a covered walkway.
This design was likely intended to protect pedestrians from the elements, but it also gives the bridges a distinctive appearance. Today, the Ponts Couverts are one of Strasbourg’s most iconic landmarks and is a favourite spot for photographers.
They are often used as a symbol of the city and have been featured on postcards and in paintings. Visitors can enjoy views of the Ponts Couverts from many of Strasbourg’s popular tourist spots, including the Barrage Vauban.
5- Visit the Musee Alsacien
Musée Alsacien is one of Strasbourg’s top tourist attractions. This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Alsace region, and it houses an impressive collection of artifacts, artwork, and documents.
Visitors can learn about the region’s Roman history, its medieval treasures, and its more recent past. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to take the kids.
And if you get hungry, there’s even a restaurant on site. So whether you’re interested in history or just looking for something to do, Musée Alsacien is definitely worth a visit.
6- Visit the Palais des Rohan
Palais des Rohan is one of the most imposing buildings in Strasbourg. Situated in the historic center of the city, it was built in the 18th century for Cardinal Rohan.
Today, it houses three museums: the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Archaeological Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts. With its grandiose facade and opulent interior, Palais des Rohan is a must-visit attraction.
As you explore the different floors and galleries, you’ll get a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a ghost or two…
7- Check out the Eglise St Thomas
Église Saint-Thomas is one of the most famous churches in Strasbourg. The church was built in the 13th century, and it has been a registered historical monument since 1862.
The exterior of the church is Gothic, while the interior is Baroque. Église Saint-Thomas is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and its unique organ. The church also has a priest’s house, which was built in the 17th century.
Église Saint-Thomas has a long history, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Strasbourg.
8- Visit the European Parliament
Nestled in the picturesque city of Strasbourg, the European Parliament is one of the most important institutions of the European Union. With 751 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) representing more than 500 million citizens, it is the only directly-elected body of the EU.
The Parliament has a number of roles, including passing legislation, approving the EU budget, and electing the President of the European Commission. Strasbourg is home to 12 plenary sessions of the Parliament each year, which are broadcast live on TV and radio across Europe.
These sessions are an important opportunity for MEPs to debate and vote on key issues affecting the EU. If you’re ever in Strasbourg, be sure to take a tour of the European Parliament!
9- Discover the Musee Historique de Strasbourg
The Musée Historique de Strasbourg is one of the most interesting museums in France. Located in the historic city of Strasbourg, the museum chronicles the history of the region from the Roman era to the present day.
Visitors can see artifacts from all periods of history, including a 12th-century stained glass window and a 16th-century map of the city. The museum also has an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture.
In addition, the museum offers a wide variety of educational programs and events. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or culture, the Musée Historique de Strasbourg is sure to have something to offer.
10- Admire the Eglise Saint-Pierre le Jeune
The Eglise Saint-Pierre le Jeune in Strasbourg is a church with a long and storied history. The original church on the site was built in the 11th century, and it has been rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries.
Today, the church is known for its Gothic architecture, its stained glass windows, and its ornate carvings. However, one of the most interesting features of the church is its clock tower. The tower was built in the 16th century, and it features a mechanism that strikes a bell every hour.
The clock also has an automated figure that appears on the hour and announces the time. This figure, known as the cuckoo, is a popular tourist attraction. Every day, hundreds of people gather to watch the cuckoo emerge from its hiding place and announce the time.
As such, the Eglise Saint-Pierre le Jeune is not only a beautiful church, but also a fascinating tourist destination.
11- Eat some yummy choucroute
When in Strasbourg, one must eat choucroute. This dish of sauerkraut and pork is a staple of Alsatian cuisine, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than in its namesake city. There are plenty of great places to get choucroute in Strasbourg, but one of the best is Chez Yvonne.
This cozy restaurant has been serving up hearty portions of choucroute for over 60 years, and it’s clear that they know what they’re doing. The sauerkraut is perfectly sour and the pork is cooked to perfection – not to mention the generous portion of potatoes that comes with it. So if you’re looking for a delicious (and quintessentially Strasbourgeois) meal, be sure to head to Chez Yvonne for some choucroute.
Another great spot for choucroute is the Restaurant Alsacien Le Schnockeloch, where you can order choucroute garnie, which comes with pork chops and sausage. No matter where you go, you’re sure to enjoy a delicious plate of choucroute in Strasbourg.
12- Sample some local wine
Strasbourg is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of Alsace wine. The region is renowned for its white wines, which are typically dry and aromatic. Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Blanc are all popular choices. However, red wine lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, as the region produces excellent Pinot Noir. When visiting Strasbourg, be sure to sample some of the local wine – you won’t be disappointed!
13- Relax at the Parc de l’Orangerie
The Parc de l’Orangerie in Strasbourg is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The park is home to a variety of different trees and plants, as well as a number of statues and sculptures. Visitors can stroll through the park, relax on the grass, or take a boat ride through the nearby canal.
The park also has a number of restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day in the sun. With its beautiful setting and variety of activities, it’s no wonder that the Parc de l’Orangerie is one of Strasbourg’s most beloved landmarks.
14- Visit the Hospices de Strasbourg
The Hospices de Strasbourg are a historic site in the city of Strasbourg, France. The Hospices were founded in the 12th century and were used as a hospital and refuge for the poor and sick. The Hospices de Strasbourg are best known for their historic cellar, which is one of the oldest and most well-preserved cellars in Europe.
The cellar dates back to the 14th century and was used to store food and wine for the Hospices. Today, the cellar is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction. The Hospices de Strasbourg offer a unique glimpse into the history of this historic institution.
15- Sail the canals on Batorama
Batorama Strasbourg is a popular tourist activity in the city of Strasbourg, France. The attraction is a boat tour that takes visitors through the canals of the city. The boat is equipped with an audio guide that provides information about the history and culture of the city. The tour is an enjoyable way to learn about the city and to see some of its most famous landmarks.
16- Walk around Place Kleber
Place Kléber is a large square located in the heart of Strasbourg, France. It is named after Jean-Baptiste Kléber, a French general who was born in the city. The square is surrounded by notable buildings, including the Palais de Justice and the Hôtel de Ville. Every day, dozens of people can be seen strolling through the square or enjoying a meal at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the perimeter.
In the center of the square is a statue of Kléber himself, standing atop a pedestal. At night, the square is illuminated by an impressive display of lights, making it a popular destination for evening strolls and romantic rendezvous. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some quiet time in the park or to people-watch from a café terrace, Place Kléber is sure to please.
17- Visit the Château Musée Vodou
Château Musée Vodou may sound like a fancy French estate, but it’s actually a museum dedicated to the religious practice of voodoo. Located in Ouidah, Benin, the museum is housed in a former slave fort and tells the story of the African diaspora through the lens of voodoo.
Visitors can see traditional altars, read about the history of voodoo, and even watch a voodoo ceremony. With its unique approach to storytelling, Château Musée Vodou offers a fascinating and enlightening look at a religion that is often misunderstood.
So there you have it. Your Strasbourg bucket list! We hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful city and that our recommendations help you make the most of it. If you’re looking for more ideas, be sure to check out our other posts about France and Europe – we’ve got something for everyone. And as always, if you have any questions or need advice on where to go next, feel free to reach out to us – we love helping people discover new places and experiences. Bon voyage!
0 Comments