Strasbourg - Discovering France

Travelling to Strasbourg

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Strasbourg, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Strasbourg and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Strasbourg, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Strasbourg for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a historic Alsatian city located in northeastern France, close to the border with Germany. It is the capital of the Grand Est region and the seat of various European institutions, such as the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its Gothic cathedral and charming half-timbered houses. Strasbourg is famous for its picturesque Christmas markets, local cuisine featuring dishes like choucroute and tarte flambée, and its excellent museums, including the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée Alsacien. It's also well-known for its canals, which were once used for transportation and now offer scenic boat tours.

What to visit in Strasbourg

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Strasbourg, along with some information about each of them: 1. Strasbourg Cathedral - also known as Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, this stunning Gothic cathedral has a pink sandstone façade and is home to a famous astronomical clock.
2. Petite France - this charming quarter of Strasbourg is filled with half-timbered houses and winding canals. It's a great place to stroll around and take in the picturesque scenery.
3. The Palace of Europe - this building is the headquarters of the Council of Europe and is open to the public for tours. It also houses a human rights museum.
4. Boat tours - there are a variety of boat tours available in Strasbourg that allow you to see the city from the water and learn more about its history.
5. The Rohan Palace - this former residence of the bishops of Strasbourg now houses three museums: the Museum of Decorative Arts, Museum of Fine Arts, and Museum of Archaeology.
6. Strasbourg Christmas Market - the city's famous Christmas market is held each year in the weeks leading up to the holiday. It features dozens of vendors selling holiday crafts, treats, and gifts.
7. European Parliament - Strasbourg is one of the seats of the European Parliament and visitors can take a tour of the building and learn more about how the European Union works.
8. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - this museum features works from the 19th century to today, including pieces by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró.
9. Strasbourg Museum of Alsatian Life - this museum showcases traditional Alsatian folk art, furniture, clothing, and more.
10. The Covered Bridges - these historic bridges span the River Ill and are a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the views of the city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Strasbourg.

When to go on holiday to Strasbourg

The best time to go on holiday to Strasbourg is during the months of May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists than during the peak summer months of July and August. Another great option is visiting Strasbourg during the festive season, when the famous Strasbourg Christmas Markets are taking place, which typically run from the end of November to December 31st. However, be aware that accommodation prices may be higher during this period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Strasbourg

There are different ways to get to Strasbourg, depending on where you are coming from.
By plane: Strasbourg has its own airport (Entzheim Airport), which is located about 10 km southwest of the city center. It has regular flights from other French cities and major European cities such as Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Madrid, and Rome. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to get to the city center.
By train: Strasbourg is well-connected to other major French and European cities by train. There are high-speed trains (TGV) that run directly to Strasbourg from Paris (taking about 1h 45min) and other French cities such as Lyon and Marseille. Strasbourg also has direct train connections to Brussels, Frankfurt, and Munich. The train station is located in the city center, so it's easy to reach most parts of the city from there.
By car: If you prefer driving, Strasbourg is easily accessible by car. It is located near the French-German border and connected to the rest of France by highways. From Paris, it takes around 4 hours to reach Strasbourg by car. However, be aware, especially during rush hour, that there may be traffic around the city.
By bus: Several bus companies offer bus trips to Strasbourg from other major French and European cities. However, keep in mind that the journey may take longer than other modes of transportation, and the buses usually arrive at the city's bus station, which is located a bit outside of the city center.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Strasbourg, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Strasbourg

Here are some typical foods of Strasbourg, France: 1. Choucroute - This is a traditional Alsatian dish made of sauerkraut cooked with different types of meats, usually pork and sausages. It is often served with boiled potatoes and mustard.
2. Flammekueche - Also known as Tarte Flambée, this is a thin, crispy pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, bacon, and onions.
3. Baeckeoffe - This is a slow-cooked casserole made with lamb, pork, and beef, mixed with potatoes, onions, and sometimes carrots and leeks.
4. Tarte aux quetsches - A sweet tart made with plums, often served with whipped cream.
5. Bretzel - A classic Germanic pretzel, this pastry is twisted into a knot and baked till golden brown and crispy. 6. Foie Gras - This is a delicacy made from the liver of a duck or goose that has been specially fattened. The liver is usually served cold with toast or brioche and some type of fruit compote.
7. Munster Cheese - A soft, creamy cheese made from cow's milk, often used in dishes like tarte flambée or served on a charcuterie board.
Overall, Strasbourg's cuisine is influenced by German and French culinary traditions, resulting in hearty and flavorful dishes that are perfect for colder weather.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Strasbourg an expensive destination for tourists?

Strasbourg can be considered a slightly expensive destination for tourists compared to other French cities. However, the cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as the time of year you visit, where you stay, and what activities you plan on doing. Accommodation and food in the city center can be more expensive, but there are also many budget-friendly options available in the outer areas of the city. Overall, if you plan your trip well, you can enjoy Strasbourg without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Strasbourg

If you're planning to visit Strasbourg, the best areas to find accommodation are the city center and the Petite-France neighborhood. The city center, also known as the Grande île, is where you'll find most of the city's landmarks, such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the old town. The Petite-France neighborhood is a picturesque area with canals, narrow streets, and half-timbered buildings. It's also conveniently located near the city center. Other good areas to consider for accommodation include the Krutenau neighborhood, which has a more relaxed and bohemian vibe, and Neudorf, which is quieter and has a suburban feel.
You can check hotel prices at Strasbourg here:
Booking.com

Is Strasbourg a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Strasbourg is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, visitors should be aware of typical safety precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas and avoiding dark or isolated areas at night. It is also recommended to take necessary precautions to prevent petty theft, such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or wearing valuable jewelry in public. Overall, Strasbourg is a vibrant and welcoming city with a rich cultural heritage that thousands of tourists visit every year without incident.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Strasbourg.

What type of travelers will enjoy Strasbourg the most?

Strasbourg, being the capital city of the Alsace region in northeastern France, is a destination that has plenty to offer for all types of travelers. It is a cultural and historical city that is famous for the charming side streets, iconic landmarks, beautiful architecture, museums, and fine dining.
Couples interested in a romantic destination may enjoy the city due to its picturesque streets and canals. They can take romantic boat tours along the canals at night, which creates a magical ambience.
Young people looking for fun may enjoy exploring the city for its vibrant nightlife that includes cafes, wine bars, music, and clubs. They can explore the youth-oriented neighborhoods, trendy boutiques, and cultural street art.
Families with children may find the city fascinating as it offers a wealth of child-friendly activities and historical landmarks. There are plenty of places to visit in Strasbourg that families would enjoy, including the Musee Alsacien, Le Vaisseau Science Center, the Botanical Gardens, and the Strasbourg Zoo.
Overall, Strasbourg is a destination that provides something for everyone, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled trip with friends.

How to get around Strasbourg

In Strasbourg, you can move around using various modes of transportation, including trams, buses, bikes, and taxi services. The city is well connected, and public transportation is reliable, convenient, and affordable. The tram network is extensive and covers most parts of the city, while buses operate on routes that are not covered by the tram network. Bike sharing services are also available to use for short trips, and taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft can be used for longer distances or when traveling with heavy luggage.

What to see around Strasbourg

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Strasbourg: 1. Colmar: Visit the charming old town with plenty of half-timbered houses and canals.
2. Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle: Explore a well-preserved medieval castle with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Europa-Park: Have fun at one of Europe's biggest theme parks with lots of thrilling rides.
4. Riquewihr: Another charming town with lots of half-timbered houses and narrow streets.
5. Mont Sainte-Odile: A beautiful monastery that overlooks the Alsace countryside and offers plenty of walking trails.
6. Obernai: A colorful medieval town with a rich history and lots of local shops and restaurants.
7. Ecomusée d'Alsace: A living museum that showcases the traditional life and culture of the Alsace region.
8. Mulhouse: A bigger city with plenty of museums, such as the Cité de l'Automobile, which displays over 400 classic cars. I hope this helps!
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