Strasbourg is a fairytale city, from its’ colorful half-timbered houses to it’s canals. While Strasbourg is the capital city of the Alsace region and a European capital, it has a small town feel. There is no sense of chaos or rush in this little city. Aside from the bus loads of tourists who visit Strasbourg each day, life seems calmer in this part of France. Like other towns and villages in Alsace, Strasbourg has a unique French-German influence. This is seen in the architecture and food found in the region. Something about this city was like a breath of fresh air and left me in complete awe. Check out these best things to do in Strasbourg, France to make the most of your time in this city.
Best Things To Do In Strasbourg, France
Petite France
La Petite France is the most iconic area of Strasbourg. The quintessential Alsatian charm can be found in the streets surrounding the canals, La Petite France. This area is full of half timbered houses along flowing canals. La Petite France is part of the Grande Île, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once home to tanners, fisherman and millers. Now this neighborhood is visited for its’ colorful houses lining the labyrinth of canals.
La Petite France is a relatively large area. I spent an entire morning wandering along the canals, taking in the vibrant pops of color. There are no shortage of picturesque views in this neighborhood.
Pont Couvert
Pont Couvert, or the covered bridges, is a set of towers and bridges on the Grande Île. Walking along these bridges allows for prime views of La Petite France. I stopped at each bridge to get a unique perspective or this charming area.
For the best view of Pont Couvert, head to the Barrage Vauban, a defensive bridge across from the Grande Île.
Strasbourg Cathedral
The Strasbourg Cathedral is located in the Neustadt, or new town. The Neustadt is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Strasbourg. This neighborhood was designed specifically around the cathedral which opens up to the canals. The Strasbourg Cathedral at the center of it all. This is the type of cathedral you can see from almost everywhere in the city. It serves as a great landmark when you’re out exploring town.
The exterior of the Strasbourg Cathedral is absolutely beautiful. This gothic style cathedral is a true work of art and and should be visited at various points in the day to appreciate the changing color of the sandstone. The Strasbourg Cathedral is especially beautiful during sunset, when the sun casts a magical glow on the sandstone exterior.
For the best views of the city, climb up to the cathedral’s platform. 332 steps up a spiral staircase will bring you to the Strasbourg Cathedral Platform, which offers panorama views of the entire city! The rooftop views are breathtaking. And on a clear day you can even see the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains in the distance!
Botorama
One of my favorite ways to see a city is by boat, and Strasbourg is no exception. Botorama, Strasbourg’s boat tour, is great for many reason. It allowed me to see parts of Strasbourg I would not have otherwise seen in a relaxing setting. Also, it gave me a fresh perspective on the city.
The glass enclosed boat is air conditioned and serves as great coverage from the elements (heat, rain, wind). I took great comfort on the Botorama tour during a rainy afternoon in Strasbourg.
Botorama depart from Palais Rohan and goes past iconic sites, such as Petite France and tanners’ quarter, Pont Couvert and the Neustadt imperial quarter, and the European institutions. I was glad to see the Neustadt imperial quarter and the European institutions from the boat, as I did not have the opportunity to explore these areas by foot on this trip. This is one of the best things to do in Strasbourg on a rainy day.
Tickets for Botorama can be purchased on the other side of the Palais Rohan or online. Tickets cost 13€ or are included in your Strasbourg Pass.
Palais Rohan
Palais Rohan was an absolute surprise and delight. The palace is located adjacent to the Strasbourg Cathedral and can’t be missed on a trip to the Alcacian Capital. Yet if it wasn’t for the Strasbourg Pass, I wouldn’t have considered visiting the interior.
Palais Rohan was built from 1732 to 1742 and was a prestigious palace amongst the cardinals of Rohan. Today, the palace is home to three different museums: the Fine Arts museum, the Archaeological museum, and the Decorative Arts museum. We chose to visit the Decorative Arts museum, in order to see the beautiful furnishing and design elements. The interior was beautifully bathed in light and had luxurious design elements. Yet, I was surprised by the casual atmosphere of this palace. I am used to other palaces in Europe with strict rules, hordes of tourists and plethora of historical information (audio guides, etc.), yet this was not the case for Palais Rohan. Palais Rohan was surprisingly quiet considering all the tourists around the Strasbourg Cathedral and la Petite France. The palace is beautiful and worth a visit on your trip.
Christmas Capital
Strasbourg is considered to be the Christmas capital of the world and has an extravagant Christmas Market. While I visited off season, there were still many Christmas decorations around the city in March. After a couple days in Strasbourg and a preview of its’ Christmas spirit, I know I will have to revisit to experience the Christmas market.
I did make time to do some ornament shopping at Un Noel en Alsace, an adorable Christmas shop open year round. I was blown away by the beautiful ornaments, which were priced moderately. And the interior of this shop is a winter wonderland! I spent an hour walking around this shop sifting through the ornaments.
Where to Eat
Pain D’épice
Whether you are visiting during the Christmas season or not, you absolutely must try the gingerbread in Alsace. Pain D’épice, a gingerbread shop in la Petite France takes this delicacy to the next level. Hands down, the best gingerbread I have ever had! There are many types of gingerbread to choose, from traditional to unique flavors.
The Strasbourg Pass
The Strasbourg Pass is a great way to explore the city. It offers everything from free entrances to Botorama, one museum, the Cathedral’s tower and the astronomical clock as well as reduced prices on other activities. The Strasbourg Pass is priced at 21,50 € per adult and can be used throughout three consecutive days. The Strasbourg Pass is a great option if you intend to experience the best things to do in Strasbourg, France.
For more to do in Alsace, check out the day trips such as Colmar and Riquewihr!
Come Join My Journey and Gringa Journeys were given complimentary Strasbourg passes from the Strasbourg Tourism Office. , however, my opinion is as always my own.