Looking for the best things to do in Strasbourg, France? Wander through Petite France’s canals, climb Strasbourg Cathedral’s panoramic tower, savor Alsatian flammekueche, and explore the EU Parliament—your ultimate guide to this Franco-German gem!

Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region in France, is a unique blend of French and German cultures, steeped in history, architecture, and culinary delights

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As a local resident, I'm excited to share with you an in-depth guide to the best things to do in Strasbourg, organized by location, food, restaurants, attractions, and the best times to visitWhether you're planning a short trip or an extended stay, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this charming city.

1. Must-Visit Locations in Strasbourg

1.1 The Grande Île

The Grande Île, or "Big Island," is the historic heart of Strasbourg and a UNESCO World Heritage SiteThis is where you'll find some of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg)

• Highlights: The Strasbourg Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architectureIts 142-meter spire was once the tallest in the worldInside, you'll find the famous astronomical clock, which dates back to the 16th century and performs a mechanical show every day at 12:30 PM.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowdsThe interior is particularly beautiful in the soft light.

La Petite France

• Highlights: This picturesque neighborhood is known for its half-timbered houses, canals, and flower boxesIt's a great place to wander, take photos, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many cafes.
• Activities: Take a boat tour along the canals, visit the Barrage Vauban (a 17th-century dam), or explore the Alsatian Museum (Musée Alsacien) to learn more about the region's culture and traditions.

1.2 Neustadt

The Neustadt, or "New Town," was built after the annexation of Alsace by Germany in 1871. It features wide boulevards, grand buildings, and a more Germanic architectural style.

Place de la République

• Highlights: This large square is surrounded by impressive neo-baroque and neo-renaissance buildings

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  It's a great place to people-watch, enjoy a coffee, or attend one of the many events that take place here throughout the year.

• Nearby Attractions: The Palais de la Musique et des Congrès (Palace of Music and Congresses) and the National and University Library (Bibliothèque Nationale et Universitaire) are both worth a visit.

Parc de l'Orangerie

• Highlights: This beautiful park is a great place to relax and enjoy natureIt features a lake, a zoo, and several walking pathsThe park is especially popular in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom.
• Activities: Rent a rowboat on the lake, visit the zoo, or have a picnic on the grass.

2. Culinary Delights of Strasbourg

2.1 Traditional Alsatian Dishes

Alsace is known for its hearty, flavorful cuisine, which combines French and German influencesHere are some must-try dishes:

Choucroute Garnie

• Description: A classic Alsatian dish consisting of sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) served with a variety of smoked meats, sausages, and potatoes.
• Where to Eat: Many traditional restaurants in Strasbourg serve choucroute garnie, but some of the best can be found in La Petite France.

Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche)

• Description: A thin, crispy pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and baconIt's a popular snack or light meal.
• Where to Eat: You can find tarte flambée at many bakeries and restaurants throughout the citySome of the best places to try it are in the Neustadt area.

Baeckeoffe

• Description: A slow-cooked casserole made with layers of potatoes, onions, and marinated meat (usually beef, pork, and lamb). It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for cold weather.
• Where to Eat: Baeckeoffe is often served in traditional Alsatian restaurants, especially during the winter months.

2.2 Alsatian Wines

Alsace is famous for its white wines, which are known for their floral aromas and crisp acidity

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Here are some popular varieties to try:

Riesling

• Description: A dry white wine with notes of citrus, apple, and peachIt pairs well with seafood, poultry, and spicy dishes.
• Where to Drink: Many wine bars and restaurants in Strasbourg offer a wide selection of Alsatian winesYou can also visit the local vineyards for a wine-tasting experience.

Gewürztraminer

• Description: A sweet white wine with a distinct aroma of rose petals and spicesIt pairs well with spicy Asian cuisine, desserts, and foie gras.
• Where to Drink: Gewürztraminer is often served as an aperitif or dessert wineYou can find it at most wine bars and restaurants in Strasbourg.

Pinot Gris

• Description: A medium-bodied white wine with flavors of pear, honey, and smokeIt pairs well with rich, creamy dishes and roasted meats.
• Where to Drink: Pinot Gris is a versatile wine that can be enjoyed with a variety of foodsYou can find it at many wine bars and restaurants in the city.

3. Top Restaurants in Strasbourg

3.1 Fine Dining

If you're looking for a special dining experience, Strasbourg has several Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite cuisine and impeccable service.

Au Crocodile

• Cuisine: French and Alsatian
• Highlights: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its creative dishes and elegant atmosphereThe menu changes seasonally and features locally sourced ingredients.
• Price Range: Expensive
• Reservation: Highly recommended

L'Auberge de l'Ill

• Cuisine: French and Alsatian
• Highlights: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant is located just outside of Strasbourg in the village of Illhaeusern

  It's famous for its traditional Alsatian dishes with a modern twist.

• Price Range: Expensive
• Reservation: Essential

3.2 Casual Dining

For a more relaxed dining experience, Strasbourg has plenty of casual restaurants that serve delicious food at reasonable prices.

Winstub Le Schnengeli

• Cuisine: Alsatian
• Highlights: This cozy winstub (Alsatian tavern) is a great place to try traditional Alsatian dishes like choucroute garnie and tarte flambéeThe atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the prices are very reasonable.
• Price Range: Moderate
• Reservation: Recommended on weekends

Le Crocodile Rouge

• Cuisine: International
• Highlights: This trendy restaurant offers a fusion of French and international cuisineThe menu features dishes like grilled salmon, steak frites, and pastaThe atmosphere is lively and the prices are affordable.
• Price Range: Moderate
• Reservation: Optional

4. Key Attractions in Strasbourg

4.1 Museums and Galleries

Strasbourg has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums and galleries that showcase its history, art, and science.

Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain de Strasbourg (MAMCS)

• Highlights: This modern and contemporary art museum features works by both local and international artistsThe collection includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations.
• Special Exhibitions: The museum often hosts special exhibitions that focus on specific themes or artists.
• Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays

Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg

• Highlights: This fine arts museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building

  It features a collection of European art from the 14th to the 20th century, including works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and Delacroix.

• Highlights: The museum also has a section dedicated to Alsatian art.
• Opening Hours: Closed on Tuesdays

4.2 Historical Sites

Strasbourg has a long and fascinating history, and there are several historical sites that are worth visiting.

Palais Rohan

• Highlights: This 18th-century palace was the residence of the Prince-Bishops of StrasbourgIt now houses three museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
• Architecture: The palace is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, with its grand facade, ornate interiors, and beautiful gardens.
• Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays

Barrage Vauban

• Highlights: This 17th-century dam was built to protect the city from floodingIt's now a popular tourist attraction, with a viewing platform that offers stunning views of the city and the Ill River.
• History: The dam was designed by the famous military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban.
• Opening Hours: Open daily

5. Best Times to Visit Strasbourg

5.1 By Month

Here's a breakdown of the best things to do in Strasbourg by month:

January

• Highlights: The city is decorated with Christmas lights and decorations, and there are several winter markets (Marchés de Noël) that offer a variety of food, drinks, and crafts.
• Activities: Go ice skating at the Place de la Cathédrale, visit the Christmas markets, or enjoy a cozy meal at a local winstub.

February

• Highlights: The weather is still cold, but there are several indoor events and activities to enjoy.
• Activities: Visit the museums and galleries, attend a concert or theater performance, or enjoy a spa day at one of the city's wellness centers.

March

• Highlights: Spring begins to arrive, and the city starts to come alive with flowers and greenery.
• Activities: Take a walk in Parc de l'Orangerie, visit the Alsatian Museum, or enjoy a picnic in one of the city's parks.

April

• Highlights: The weather is mild, and there are several outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.
• Activities: Attend the Strasbourg International Film Festival, visit the Easter markets, or take a bike ride along the Ill River.

May

• Highlights: The weather is warm and sunny, and the city is in full bloom.
• Activities: Visit the European Parliament, take a boat tour along the canals, or enjoy a meal at one of the city's outdoor cafes.

June

• Highlights: Summer arrives, and there are several outdoor concerts, festivals, and events to enjoy.
• Activities: Attend the Fête de la Musique, visit the Strasbourg Beach (Plage de Strasbourg), or take a day trip to the nearby Black Forest.

July

• Highlights: The weather is hot and sunny, and the city is bustling with tourists and locals.
• Activities: Attend the Strasbourg Summer Festival, visit the Strasbourg Zoo, or take a swim in one of the city's public pools.

August

• Highlights: The weather is still warm, and there are several outdoor events and activities to enjoy.
• Activities: Visit the Alsace Wine Route, attend the Strasbourg Jazz Festival, or take a hike in the Vosges Mountains.

September

• Highlights: The weather starts to cool down, and the city is less crowded.
• Activities: Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Alsatian dishes, or enjoy a wine-tasting tour.

October

• Highlights: The fall foliage is beautiful, and there are several harvest festivals and events to enjoy.
• Activities: Visit the local vineyards to participate in the grape harvest, attend the Strasbourg International Short Film Festival, or enjoy a hot apple cider at a local cafe.

November

• Highlights: The city starts to prepare for the Christmas season, and there are several winter markets and events to enjoy.
• Activities: Visit the Christmas markets, attend the Strasbourg Christmas Concert, or enjoy a warm meal at a local winstub.

December

• Highlights: The city is fully decorated for Christmas, and there are several holiday events and activities to enjoy.
• Activities: Visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market (the oldest and largest in France), attend the Strasbourg Christmas Parade, or enjoy a traditional Alsatian Christmas dinner.

5.2 By Season

Here's a summary of the best times to visit Strasbourg by season:

Spring (March - May)

• Weather: Mild and sunny, with occasional rain.
• Highlights: Beautiful flowers and greenery, outdoor events and festivals.
• Activities: Walking tours, picnics, bike rides.

Summer (June - August)

• Weather: Hot and sunny, with occasional thunderstorms.
• Highlights: Outdoor concerts, festivals, and events.
• Activities: Swimming, hiking, wine-tasting tours.

Fall (September - November)

• Weather: Cool and crisp, with colorful foliage.
• Highlights: Harvest festivals, wine-tasting events.
• Activities: Cooking classes, vineyard tours, hot apple cider.

Winter (December - February)

• Weather: Cold and snowy, with occasional freezing temperatures.
• Highlights: Christmas markets, holiday events.
• Activities: Ice skating, cozy meals at winstubs, spa days.

6. Q&A

1. What to do for a day in Strasbourg?

If you only have one day in Strasbourg, here's a suggested itinerary:

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Strasbourg Cathedral

  Explore the interior, admire the astronomical clock, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

• Lunch: Head to La Petite France and enjoy a traditional Alsatian meal at a local winstubTry dishes like choucroute garnie or tarte flambée.
• Afternoon: Take a boat tour along the canals of La Petite FranceVisit the Barrage Vauban and the Alsatian Museum to learn more about the region's culture and traditions.
• Evening: End your day with a stroll through the Grande ÎleEnjoy a glass of Alsatian wine at a wine bar and watch the city light up at night.

2. What is Strasbourg in France best known for?

Strasbourg is best known for several things:

• Historical and Cultural Heritage: The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a rich history that dates back to the Roman EmpireIt's home to many iconic landmarks, including the Strasbourg Cathedral and La Petite France.
• Culinary Delights: Alsace is famous for its hearty, flavorful cuisine, which combines French and German influencesStrasbourg is a great place to try traditional Alsatian dishes like choucroute garnie, tarte flambée, and baeckeoffe.
• Alsatian Wines: The region is known for its white wines, which are produced in the nearby vineyardsStrasbourg is a great place to sample a variety of Alsatian wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
• European Institutions: Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament and several other European institutionsIt's a great place to learn about the European Union and its role in the world.

3. Is Strasbourg in France worth visiting?

Absolutely! Strasbourg is a unique and charming city that offers something for everyoneWhether you're interested in history, culture, food, or wine, you'll find plenty to see and do in Strasbourg