Best things to do in Strasbourg: Guide for a perfect stay

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Visiting the city of Strasbourg is a must-do while in the Alsace region of France. More than just a romantic destination, Strasbourg is really known for being beautiful all year long, whether it’s during Christmas season or during nice summer days. Strasbourg is also a land of wines, especially if you enjoy walks in nature.

Whether you are just passing through Strasbourg on a trip to France, or you’re considering settling in this city for a nice stay, our team at Winalist is here to guide you. Alsace is a region we know by heart since it’s not that far from our HQs in Champagne,

TOP 10 things to do while in Strasbourg, France

The city is pedestrian-friendly, so renting a car is not a must if you just wish to visit Strasbourg during a day or two. If Strasbourg is a first stop before exploring the region and maybe another French wine region, then renting a car might be a good option.

Visit Strasbourg’s Cathedral & its tower

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The Strasbourg Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture and the Astronomical Clock, is a must-visit. Climb the 332 steps to the cathedral’s platform for a breathtaking view of the city and the Black Forest in the distance. Ready to climb a 65m above the ground?

Not far from there you’ll also be able to discover the Palais Rohan a great monument with amazing architecture and Place Kleber a wonderful spot for a drink on a terrasse.

Stroll through the Petite France district

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Continue your adventure in the fairy-tale neighborhood of La Petite France, a must-see in Strasbourg. With its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, it feels like stepping into a storybook. The area’s charming boutiques and cafes provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.

The Vauban Dam

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Just nearby discover the Vauban Damm, built to protect Strasbourg when the covered bridges found themselves overwhelmed by the evolution of artillery. The dam made it possible, by blocking its arches, to raise the level of the Ill and flood the surrounding fields with the aim of trapping enemies in the mud. You can cross the dam from the inside, thanks to a corridor in which many gargoyle statues are stored.

Discover the European quarter

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Headquarters of many European institutions, the European district of Strasbourg represents this multicultural city with a turbulent past. Since 1949 and the creation of the Council of Europe, this district has been a gathering place for the various Western powers. It includes the European Court of Human Rights, created in 1959, and of course the European Parliament.

To find out, go to the Lieu d’Europe located at 8 rue Boecklin. A walk of about 1h30 allows you to tour the most important buildings in the district.

Shop at Place Kléber

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The heart of Strasbourg’s shopping district, Place Kléber, is filled with both local boutiques and international brands. During the Christmas season, it transforms into part of the Strasbourg Christmas Market, Europe’s oldest and one of its most vibrant. Discover our guide on the best Christmas markets in Alsace to do during winter!

Take a boat tour on the Ill

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Embark on a boat tour to see Strasbourg from its canals. These tours offer a unique perspective of the city, from the European Parliament buildings to the historical Petite France district, providing insights into Strasbourg’s rich history and architecture.

Take a tour to famous Alsace villages & vineyards

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If you’re not planning on renting a car, then opt for one of Strasbourg wine tours during a day trip from strasbourg to the best villages in Alsace!

If you prefer to explore the best Alsace wineries on your own, then it you might be better off renting a car. Discover our guide on the Alsace Wine Route, a magnificent road that will guide you around all the best places and villages in the region.

Enjoy Alsatian Cuisine in authentic restaurants

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No visit to Strasbourg is complete without indulging in Alsatian cuisine. Try local specialties like tarte flambée, choucroute garnie, and baeckeoffe. Be sure to pair your meal with some local Riesling or Gewürztraminer wine.

It is in the alleys so typical of Little France that you can find something to eat in the traditional Alsatian restaurants: the Winstubs.

If you were looking for the best place to go in Strasbourg to taste the local cuisine, it’s here! It’s time to try sauerkraut, tarte flambée, baeckeofe without forgetting dessert with the famous kougelhopf.

To taste something authentic and homemade while avoiding tourist traps, we recommend:

  • Le Tire-Bouchon: 100% guaranteed home cooking thanks to the master restaurateur label.
  • Le Mun’s: for Munster cheese lovers since regional specialties are revisited here with this cheese.
  • La petite Mairie: a family restaurant with local suppliers and fresh produce. Try one of the 8 types of flammekueche where the dough is homemade.

In Alsace, cuisine is a real part of the terroir. The traditional cuisine, renowned for being quite rich, is just as delicious. Starters, main courses, desserts and local liqueurs, without forgetting the wine: you will not lack traditional dishes to taste. Here are other famous restaurants in Strasbourg:

  • At Uncle Freddy’s (9 Rue des Moulins);
  • Le Bistrot des Tanneurs (36 rue du Fossé-des-Tanneurs);
  • Zuem Strissel (5 place de la Grande Boucherie);
  • Au Bon Vivant (7 rue du Maroquin);

Walk Through the Parc de l’Orangerie

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The Parc de l’Orangerie, Strasbourg’s oldest park, offers a serene escape with beautiful paths, a small zoo, and a boating lake. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.

Visit Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

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If you’re an art lover, then you should not miss the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. The museum hosts an impressive collection of artworks from the 19th and 20th centuries, including pieces by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Monet.

Best Hotels to stay in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg offers a variety of exceptional hotels that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of its visitors. The best hotels in Strasbourg are known for their unique blend of historical charm, modern luxury, and exceptional service, often located within walking distance of the city’s major attractions. Here are some of the most amazing hotels in Strasbourg, each with its own reason for standing out:

  1. Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery
    One of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Strasbourg, dating back to the 16th century, it combines historical elegance with modern comfort. Its central location near the cathedral and La Petite France makes it a perfect base for exploring the city.
  2. Hotel Les Haras
    Set in a former stud farm that dates back to the 18th century, Hotel Les Haras is a unique blend of historical architecture and contemporary design. It’s known for its outstanding interior design, which pays homage to its equestrian past, and its tranquil courtyard, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
  3. Hotel & Spa Le Bouclier d’Or
    This luxury hotel, located in the Petite France area, is a beautifully restored property that offers a spa and wellness center. Its rooms and suites are elegantly decorated, blending traditional Alsatian elements with modern amenities. The spa facilities, including a sauna, hammam, and hot tub, make it a perfect choice for relaxation.
  4. Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile
    Situated in the Grande Île, Strasbourg’s historic city center, this hotel combines French elegance with the essence of Alsace. It’s known for its refined rooms, gourmet dining, and exceptional service. The hotel’s terrace offers stunning views of the city, making it a popular choice among luxury travelers.
  5. Régent Petite France & Spa
    Located in the heart of La Petite France, this hotel is set in a converted 17th-century mill and offers stunning views of the Ill River. It stands out for its beautiful rooms, spa facilities, and terrace overlooking the water. The combination of its unique setting, luxury accommodations, and attentive service offers an unforgettable stay.
  6. Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection
    Why It’s Amazing: This hotel, located in the heart of Strasbourg, combines historical charm with luxury modern amenities. Following a complete renovation, it now features a spa, a fine dining restaurant, and uniquely decorated rooms that blend the rich history of Alsace with contemporary design.

Useful resources to visit Strasbourg

Where is Strasbourg located?

Strasbourg is located in the Alsace region of France, in the northeast of the country, next to the German border. It is very easily accessible:

How to get to Strasbourg?

By train: from Paris, expect about a 2 hour, 20 minute high-speed train trip (book your ticket here) – and about the same from Frankfurt.
– By plane: you can land in the minor international Airport of Strasbourg, or in one of the airports in Paris, Luxembourg and Frankfurt.
– By car: like all capital cities, Strasbourg has a highway network. Coming from Paris, you’ll drive on the A4 – coming from Dijon, on the A36

What is Strasbourg famous for?

Strasbourg is one of the most popular cities in France for its architecture, its cuisine, its walks on the Big Island but also for its culture. Strasbourg is indeed one of the central places of Europe. During the winter holidays, the unmissable Christmas market in Strasbourg is one of the attractions not to be missed in the region.

Is one day in Strasbourg enough?

If you are just passing through Strasbourg, it is possible to see the city’s main spots in one day. However, should you have the opportunity to stay a little longer, our suggestion is to plan staying at least one night, as you may regret your short length of time that a single day offers you.

Is Strasbourg beautiful?

Strasbourg is not only beautiful, but also very dynamic with many cultural sites to visit (museums, operas,…) and events to attend to along the year. Strasbourg is a true reflection of Alsace: unique and typical food, wine, language and architecture.