Best Things To Do In The Charming Strasbourg, France
I am excited to introduce you my hometown, the capital of Europe, Strasbourg. Born and raised in the cold Alsace. The capital of Alsace, France, is full of things to do and see. Located on the border of Germany and France, offers plenty of fun things to do no matter what time of year you visit. Whether you’re here in the spring or summer to visit the Strasbourg Grand-Place, or in the fall or winter to enjoy Christmas markets, there are tons of activities that will keep you busy and entertained throughout your stay. Here are a few highlights to get you started.
BEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN STRASBOURG
1. Visit the Cathedral of Strasbourg
Certainly the pride of the Alsatian. The ultimate symbol of Alsace, also named also Notre-Dame was the tallest building in the world up to 1874. The Lady of Strasbourg had to be on tops list of your visit. Make sure to visit the interior, you will find the impressive astronomical clock. Also, you can climb up to 465 feet to get a stunning view of Strasbourg. After climbing more than 332 steps you can enjoy the view of the Alsace region and even the German Black Forest.
Cathedral tips and facts :
- Built from the year 1015 to 1439. It took more than 400 years to build the cathedral.
- The Tallest Building in the World for 227 years, from 1647 to 1874.
- The Window on the west façade measures 45-feet in diameter.
- The Opening Hours: Daily from 9:15am to 11:15am and from 2:00pm to 5:45pm.
- The cathedral is free to visit.
- Things to do around the cathedral
Strasbourg Astronomical Clock
The Strasbourg Clock dates to the year 1547 and was renovated a couple of times, most recently in the 19th century. The mechanism is unique, and it includes various dials and displays, such as a perpetual calendar and a display showing the position of the sun and the moon. At 12:30 every day, the clock presents the 12 Apostles parading before Jesus and the cock crowing three times.
- Prices : Adult fee : 3€
- Price advantages :
- Free for children (age limit) : 6 years
- Group (minimum number of people) : 12
- Other special offers : €2 (groups > 12 people, 6-18 years)
- Prices for children :
- Tickets on sale at the Cathedral’s sales desks. No booking accepted – Tickets to be bought on the day. Access through the southern portal, from 11:35 a.m.
2. LA PETITE FRANCE
La Petite France ( little France) is situated in the heart of the Old Town. Known for its charming cobblestone streets, canals, and the timbered homes. Also considered to be the most photogenic and the most attractive part of the city. Get your history on at La Petite France and Le Vieux Strasbourg. Plus, La Petite France is a great place for shopping, lots of souvenir shops.
Because La Petite France is located in the center of Strasbourg, it is one of the best spot to stay in Strasbourg.
3. Place Gutenberg
Located a few steps from the Cathedral, the Gutenberg Square (place Gutenberg) was named after the inventor of the printing press who lived in Strasbourg for 10 years. A statue in his honour is erected there.
It was the administrative and political center of the city from the Middle Ages to the 18th century and you can see the Renaissance building of the Chamber of Commerce.
It’s also the ideal place to have a drink on one of the many outdoor terraces.
4. visit Place Kleber
Another very famous Square, if not the most important, is Strasbourg‘s main public square in Grande Île: Kleber Square.
It’s the meeting place for Strasburgers at major cultural or sporting events as well as the place where you can admire the huge Christmas tree during Christmas time.
Around the square there is a pink sandstone building dating from 1770, the Aubette. It’s name comes from the fact that soldiers went there every day at dawn to seek their orders of assignment.
The square is a very pleasant pedestrian area with its flowerbeds and water fountains.
5. Palais Rohan
The Rohan Palace (Palais Rohan) is another historic monument on the Grande Île and one of the main points of interest in Strasbourg. Originally a princely residence, it was home to 4 princes of the Rohan family, hence its name, and now houses 3 museums:
- The archaeological museum will allow you to discover the complete history of Alsace since prehistory
- The museum of fine arts with a very rich collection of paintings, from Botticelli to Goyat and Rubens
- The Museum of Decorative Arts with its collection of furniture and ceramic pieces
If you don’t want to visit the museums, I still advise you to go and admire the architecture and facade of the Rohan Palace. It deserves a photo!
For schedules and fares, it’s on the official Strasbourg museums website.
6. The Covered Bridges
Next to the Petite France, you can see the covered bridges (“Les Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg”) that have retained their name despite they have no roof any more.
They were built to serve as a rampart to reinforce the fortification on the waterways.
They were used to connect the 3 medieval towers, vestiges of the ancient ramparts, and had covered wooden galleries, which have now disappeared.
7. THE ORANGERIE PARK
Parc de l’Orangerie located in the European Quarter, is the oldest park in Strasbourg. The park offer plenty of picnic spot, few restaurants, a small zoo (free of charge), and even bowling alley. You can also enjoy a large lake with canoe rentals and a place to buy ice-cream, waffles and other delicacies.
8. visit the EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
Strasbourg is known as the capital of Europe, because is home to the European Parliament. The structure is made of glass, metal and wood. This building designed in a ship form was inaugurated in 1999. The Strasbourg’s European district ( the council of Europe and the European court of Human rights) is a beautiful are to explore, surrounded by a beautiful area with green spaces around the building.
It is pretty close to the Orangerie park, where you will find the institutions that make Strasbourg the capital of Europe:
- The European Parliament
- The Council of Europe
- The European Court of Human Rights
9. GETTING AROUND STRASBOURG CRUISE BOAT TOUR
If you don’t get much time on your visit time, you can go with a boat tour on the canal. You’ll be able to get an overview of Strasbourg’s history, pass by the European Parliament, La Petite France and it’s surroundings.
You will have the choice between 2 tours:
- « Strasbourg, plus de 20 siècles d’histoire » which lasts 1h10 and will take you through the Petite France, the Vauban Dam and through the European institutions that I have told you about above.
- « Strasbourg, Grande-Île » is 45 minutes long and focus on the city center, so no European institutions on this one.
During your boat ride in Strasbourg, you will enjoy the surrounding of the city, the facts and history about Strasbourg, and the information about the best places to visit in Strasbourg.
10. VISIT TRADITIONAL ALSACE VILLAGES ON A DAY TRIP
One of the thing to do and see while visiting Strasbourg is having a trip in Alsace. If you get spare time, go on a trip a visit Some stunning Alsace villages. Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim are the most recommended places. Check my article of the 7 best things to do in Alsace.
When To Visit: Strasbourg Weather
You can visit Strasbourg anytime but let me highlight the best time to visit Strasbourg based on your desired activities.
The ideal time for visitors to explore Strasbourg is during the spring and summer seasons when the weather is delightful. The long, sunny days provide the perfect opportunity to discover the city’s neighborhoods, parks, squares, and enjoy leisurely strolls along the riverside.
During the summer months, however, temperatures can rise significantly, and the city tends to become crowded with fellow tourists. It’s important to be prepared for the heat and potential crowds if visiting during this time.
In summary, the spring and summer seasons offer the best weather conditions for exploring Strasbourg, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the city’s charm and beauty.
Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Strasbourg. The weather is cooler, crowds are thinner.
In contrast to numerous European cities, December is the peak month in Strasbourg, primarily due to the renowned Christmas Market held during this time. Despite the cold weather, it’s important to anticipate large crowds and higher hotel prices.
Nevertheless, January and February also present favorable opportunities for visiting. While certain attractions may be closed during this period, and the weather can be chilly for outdoor sightseeing, these months can still offer a delightful experience in Strasbourg.
How Many Days in Strasbourg?
Determining the ideal duration for your stay in Strasbourg can be quite challenging due to the multitude of attractions and activities the city has to offer. With so much to explore, visitors could easily spend five days in Strasbourg without experiencing boredom.
While it is possible to visit Strasbourg in just one day, we recommend allocating at least two days to fully appreciate the top attractions and sights in the city. This is why planning a weekend getaway in Strasbourg is highly recommended.
Three days in Strasbourg proved to be ideal as it allowed you to explore the highlights at a leisurely pace without feeling rushed.
On the other hand, those who plan to spend four days or more in Strasbourg will have the opportunity to venture beyond the city and discover more of the surrounding region. Strasbourg serves as an excellent base for day trips, further enriching your travel experience.
Ultimately, the duration of your stay in Strasbourg depends on your preferences and the extent of exploration you desire. Whether you choose to spend two, three, four, or more days in this captivating city, Strasbourg guarantees a memorable and rewarding experience.
HOW TO GET TO STRASBOURG
By train
Via TGV high-speed train:
- From Paris : 1h45
- From the airport Charles de Gaulle : 1h50
By flight
You can land at Strasbourg airprot in Entzheim, or other nearby international airports such as Stuggart Frankfurt or Paris.
To get from Strasbourg airport to the city center – You can get the train from the airport to the station, that will get you to the tramway.
GETTING AROUND STRASBOURG
The Strasbourg Pass
The Strasbourg Pass is really a great way to save money when visiting the city!
It costs 21.50€ for adults and between 10 and 15€ for children, is valid for 3 days and offers free admissions and discounts for the main activities and points of interest of Strasbourg. Here’s the detail of what’s included:
Free:
- Visit a museum of your choice
- Cathedral platform
- Strasbourg boat tour
- Discover the astronomical clock of the cathedral
50% discount:
- Visit of a 2nd museum
- Little train trip to discover the city (from April to October)
- Strasbourg walking tour (April to December)
- Visit of the “Vaisseau” (Spaceship in french), a science center for children and teenagers from 3 to 15 years old.
- Audioguide to visit the old town and the Strasbourg cathedral
You will also benefit from a variable discount on other activities:
- Segway City Tour
- The “Château Vodou” Museum.
- “The secrets of chocolate” museum
You need to buy the Strasbourg Pass online on this website. You can then get them at the Strasbourg Tourist Office, right next to the cathedral.
- Address: 17 Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg
Trams and buses
The easiest and the cheapest way to get around the centre of Strasbourg is by using the public transport network. Tramway, bus, cycling, walking.
ALLER SIMPLE (one way ) ticket will cost 1.80€. The 24H ticket 4.60€. If you are a group of 3 the 24H trio will cost you 6.90€. Make sure you validate your tickets before getting on board.
Here more information ticket prices.
By bike
I highly recommend you to rend a bike for a day or two. With its 600 km of bike paths, Strasbourg is the most bike-friendly city in France.
WHERE CAN YOU STAY IN ?
Bunch of options are available. If you are or not on a budget, Strasbourg has everything to offer. Include hotels chains, guest houses, furnished accommodations, hostels and even a nice community of couchsurfing.
I hope this travel guide of the things to do in Strasbourg gave you a nice overview on planning your trip! If you need more informations or help on planning your trip to Strasbourg, send me a message and I’ll do my best to help you out.