As I stepped off the train and onto the platform in Strasbourg, France, I couldn’t help but feel a thrill of excitement. Strasbourg isn’t just a pretty face of timbered houses and flower-decked canals—it’s a city where French art de vivre meets German Gemütlichkeit. Set on the Grand Île (a UNESCO World Heritage site), it blends medieval lanes, bold contemporary culture, and the beating heart of the European project. Here’s how to make the most of a trip.

I. A City of Two Worlds

Strasbourg’s unique identity is shaped by its tumultuous past—switching between French and German rule multiple times over the centuries. Today, you’ll see this duality everywhere: street signs in both French and Alsatian German, bilingual locals who switch codes with ease, and a culinary scene that blends croissants and choucroute (sauerkraut with sausages and potatoes) with equal reverence.

Not just a switch between French and German architecture and style but it is also a city where beauty meets the brains. Walking through the Petite France district feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting and at the center of the old town rises the magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, Beyond its old-world charm, Strasbourg plays a surprisingly modern role: it’s one of the official seats of the European Parliament. Take a guided tour of the futuristic Hemicycle building to learn about the EU’s democratic processes—or simply stroll through the European Quarter, where sleek architecture contrasts beautifully with the historic city center.

II. 9 Must-See Attractions

1. Strasbourg Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Strasbourg): This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city. Admire the filigree façade, then step inside for the Astronomical Clock show (around 12:30 p.m.; arrive early). If you can handle stairs, climb the platform for sweeping views across the Rhine plain and Vosges. You can also purchase the tickets for a beautiful light and sound show taking place in Cathedral with live choir and chorus & live orchestra version. You can purchase the tickets here with exclusive discount Strasbourg Cathedral: Immersive sound and light show – LUMINESCENCE.

2. La Petite France: This charming quarter is a maze of cobblestone streets, half timbered houses, and picturesque canals. Get lost in the narrow alleys and discover the city’s unique charm. You can also take a canal cruise, tickets are only sold at small standpoints next to canal or city centre.

3. Place Kléber: The beautiful main square of Strasbourg featuring cobblestone streets, an expansive pedestrian area with cozy shops & cafes along the sides is definitely must to walk.

4. Grand Île wander: From Place Rohan to Place Gutenberg and the Kammerzell House, the center is a living museum of Renaissance façades and café life.

5. Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg: While wandering next to canals of La Petite, you will soon reach a set of 3 bridges & 4 towers built during the 13th century, in a charming setting with scenic views.

6. Grande-Île de Strasbourg: A beautiful small Island in the center of Strasbourg, with churches, palaces & tourist draws such as hotels & shops, nice to walk by and is on the way to Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg while walking from La Petite.

7. Neustadt: Built during the German Imperial era, its boulevards, palaces, and parks show a very different—but equally beautiful—Strasbourg.

8. European Quarter especially Parliament: Strasbourg is home to several European institutions, including the European Parliament. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and functioning of the EU. The best part is that the tour is absolutely free, so I believe it is must to have.

9. Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCS): This modern and contemporary art museum features an impressive collection of works by artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Monet.

III. Cultural Experiences

A. Try traditional Alsatian cuisine: Strasbourg is known for its hearty dishes, such as tarte flambée (a thin crust topped with bacon, onions, and cheese) and baeckeoffe (a stew made with meat, potatoes, and onions). Be sure to try some of the local specialties at one of the many restaurants or cafes. If you appreciate food experiences a little more and enjoy the food tasting experiences, its history and cultural relevance of the food, then what I really recommend is Strasbourg Culinary tour which takes you to secret gems of the city and also provides with food sampling. You can purchase the tickets here with your exclusive discount- Get Your Guide- Strasbourg Culinary Tour.

B. Attend a performance at the Opéra National du Rhin: This world-renowned opera house hosts a variety of performances, from classical music concerts to ballet and opera.

C. Visit the Christkindelsmärik Christmas Market: If you’re traveling to Strasbourg during the holiday season, be sure to visit the Christkindelsmärik Christmas Market, one of the oldest and most famous in Europe.

Here is you pre-planned Itinerary

Two-day itinerary
Day 1

• Morning: Cathedral interior, Astronomical Clock, and tower climb.
• Late morning: Coffee near Place Gutenberg; wander to Place Kléber.
• Lunch: Tarte flambée at a winstub.
• Afternoon: Boat tour for the big-picture view; explore Petite France and the Barrage Vauban terrace.
• Evening: Wine bar in Krutenau; dinner of choucroute or fish with Riesling.

Day 2

• Morning: Palais Rohan museums or the Alsatian Museum.
• Lunch: Market stall snacks and a picnic in Parc de l’Orangerie.
• Afternoon: European Quarter walk and, if available, a Parliament visit.
• Late afternoon: Neustadt boulevards and independent shops.
• Evening: Contemporary dining along the Ill or back to a cozy tavern.

Day 3

Make a day trip from Strasbourg to beautiful landscapes and cities which are listed below.

Day trips from Strasbourg

A. Colmar: Colmar is a historic city in the Grand Est region of northeastern France, known for its well-preserved old town with half-timbered houses and canals. It is a major center for Alsatian culture and wine, located between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine river, near the borders of Germany and Switzerland. It is famous for its Pastel canals and the Unterlinden Museum (Isenheim Altarpiece).

B. Route des Vins d’Alsace: Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, and Obernai for tastings and half-timbered lanes.

C. Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg: Hilltop fortress with vast views.

D. Black Forest (Germany): Offbeat forests and spa towns just across the Rhine.

E. Luxembourg City: The capital of Luxembourg is a small beautiful 2-2.5 hours train ride from Strasbourg but absolutely worth it.

Note- If you have one extra day and want to go for day trips then something I can recommend is day trip to Colmar, Riquewihr, & Eguisheim which includes Haut Kœnigsbourg Castle, Colmar, Eguisheim and Riquewihr, driving through beautiful country side roads of France. Here is my recommended journey you can book which was absolutely worth the price- From Strasbourg: Colmar, Riquewihr, & Eguisheim Day Trip.

Getting There and Getting Around

Strasbourg is easily accessible by air, with Strasbourg Airport (SXB) receiving flights from major European cities. Alternatively, you can take the train from Paris, Frankfurt or other nearby cities. Once you arrive, the city is relatively compact and can be explored on foot. The best is to arrive via train and the train station is 10 mins walk from city centre. The only time we bought tram tickets was to visit European Parliament since it was 20-25 mins walk from centre. The public transportation system is also efficient, with trams and buses connecting the main attractions.

Final Thoughts: Why Strasbourg Stole My Heart

Strasbourg isn’t just a stopover—it’s a destination that lingers in your soul. Whether you’re sipping wine at a canal-side café, getting lost in medieval alleyways, or watching the cathedral glow at sunset, this city wraps you in warmth and wonder.

It’s a place where history lives and breathes, where cultures intertwine, and where every corner holds a new surprise. So pack your bags, bring your camera, and let Strasbourg show you a side of France you never knew existed.

Bon voyage, and à bientôt, Strasbourg.

Recommended Paid Activities

I. Strasbourg Cathedral: Immersive sound and light show – LUMINESCENCE– Here you can purchase the tickets online for a beautiful light and sound show taking place in Cathedral with live choir and chorus & live orchestra version (not in winters).

II. Strasbourg Culinary Tour– Recommended Strasbourg Culinary tour which takes you to secret gems of the city and also provides with food sampling.

III. From Strasbourg: Colmar, Riquewihr, & Eguisheim Day Trip– If you have one extra day in Strasbourg then this is my recommendation to make most out of it and take a day trip to Colmar, Riquewihr, & Eguisheim which includes Haut Kœnigsbourg Castle, Colmar, Eguisheim and Riquewihr, driving through beautiful country side roads of France.

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