General Information
Strasbourg, a charming city located in northeastern France, is known for its blend of French and German influences due to its location near the German border. Famous for its Grand Île (a UNESCO World Heritage site), Strasbourg boasts a stunning medieval old town with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and historical landmarks. The city is home to the European Parliament and a wealth of cultural, historical, and architectural treasures. Strasbourg is especially famous for its Christmas markets, often considered the best in France.
Location
Strasbourg lies on the Rhine River, near the German border, in the region of Grand Est. It is approximately 2 hours by train from Paris and is located between the cities of Mulhouse and Colmar. The city’s location at the crossroads of France and Germany has made it an important cultural and political center in Europe for centuries.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Strasbourg International Airport (SXB) connects the city to major European destinations, with flights to Paris, Berlin, and London. The airport is just 10 km from the city center, easily accessible by public transport or taxi.
- By Train:
- Strasbourg has an excellent train network, with the Strasbourg TGV station offering high-speed connections to major French cities like Paris (about 2 hours), Lyon, and Marseille. The station is also well-linked to Germany and Switzerland.
- By Bus:
- Long-distance buses, such as FlixBus, offer affordable travel to and from Strasbourg. It’s a budget-friendly option, though travel times are longer compared to the train.
- By Car:
- Strasbourg is well-connected by road and is easily accessible by car. If driving from Paris, it takes about 5 hours to reach Strasbourg via the A4 highway.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Spring brings pleasant weather and the city’s gardens and parks bloom. It’s a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city’s beautiful architecture.
- Summer (June – August): The weather is warm and festivals like Strasbourg’s Music Festival are in full swing. However, it can get crowded, so expect a lively atmosphere.
- Autumn (September – November): The fall season offers mild weather and fewer tourists. The autumn foliage along the Rhine River is perfect for picturesque walks.
- Winter (December – February): Strasbourg’s Christmas market is world-famous and creates a magical atmosphere with festive lights, decorations, and local treats. It is one of the best places in France to experience Christmas traditions.
Key Festivals:
- Strasbourg Christmas Market (November – December): One of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
- Strasbourg Music Festival (June): A grand celebration of classical music in some of the city’s most beautiful venues.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg: A historic 4-star hotel with luxurious rooms and a medieval ambiance, located in the heart of the historic district.
- Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile: A sophisticated 5-star hotel with elegant decor and modern amenities, situated near the Place Kléber.
- Mid-range:
- Hôtel Régent Contades: A 4-star hotel with stylish, contemporary rooms, situated near the Strasbourg Cathedral and Petite France district.
- Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique: A budget-friendly hotel located near the city center, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to top attractions.
- Budget:
- CAMPANILE Strasbourg Centre-Cité Administrative: A budget hotel offering good value with clean rooms and a central location.
- B&B Hôtel Strasbourg Nord: A great budget option with modern rooms, located a short drive from the city center.
- Unique:
- La Maison des Tanneurs: A boutique hotel with charming, rustic decor located in the picturesque Petite France district, offering a memorable stay by the water.
- Le Boma Hotel: A design hotel with trendy, chic rooms, perfect for young travelers seeking a stylish place to stay in the city center.
Top Attractions
- Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg): This stunning Gothic cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark, famous for its intricate facade and astronomical clock. Climbing the tower provides spectacular views over the city.
- La Petite France: A charming district with quaint canals, half-timbered houses, and cobbled streets. It’s a perfect place for a scenic stroll and exploring Strasbourg’s medieval past.
- European Parliament: Strasbourg is home to the European Parliament, a major political institution in the European Union. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the workings of the EU.
- Palais Rohan: This Renaissance palace houses several museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Archaeological Museum.
- Parc de l’Orangerie: A beautiful park with large green spaces, lakes, and a zoo, ideal for relaxation or a family outing.
- Musée Alsacien: A museum dedicated to the traditional culture and folk art of the Alsace region, featuring historic costumes, tools, and artifacts.
- Boat Tour on the Ill River: Enjoy a boat cruise through the canals and waterways of Strasbourg, offering unique views of the city and its architecture.
Getting Around
- Walking: Strasbourg’s historic center is compact and ideal for exploring on foot. Most attractions are within walking distance from each other.
- Public Transportation: The city has a well-connected tram system, with several lines serving the major districts. There are also buses operating throughout the city.
- Biking: Strasbourg is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and rental services. Cycling along the Rhine River is a scenic and enjoyable way to explore.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis and Uber are widely available, but walking and public transport are often more convenient in the city center.
Local Cuisine
- Choucroute Garnie: A traditional Alsatian dish of sauerkraut served with a variety of meats, such as sausages and pork.
- Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche): A local specialty similar to a pizza, with a thin crust topped with creme fraîche, onions, and bacon.
- Kougelhopf: A sweet, yeast-based cake with raisins and almonds, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee.
- Baeckeoffe: A hearty meat stew, made with lamb, pork, and beef, slow-cooked with potatoes and vegetables.
Best Restaurants:
- Au Crocodile: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined French cuisine and Alsatian specialties.
- Le Tire-Bouchon: A cozy restaurant serving authentic Alsatian dishes, with an extensive selection of local wines.
- La Cloche à Fromage: A casual spot for cheese lovers, offering a wide selection of Alsatian cheeses and a fondue menu.
Shopping
- Place Kléber: A central square with a variety of shops, from high-end boutiques to local souvenir stores.
- Les Galeries Lafayette: The French department store offers a wide range of fashion, beauty products, and gourmet food items.
- Marché de Noël (Christmas Market): Strasbourg’s famous Christmas market is a must-visit, offering handmade gifts, artisan goods, and traditional Christmas decorations.
Nightlife
- Le Rafiot: A quirky, nautical-themed bar located on a boat, offering cocktails, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
- La Laiterie: A well-known music venue hosting concerts, DJ nights, and live performances, perfect for music lovers.
- Le Grillen: A vibrant nightclub offering live DJ sets and dancing, located in the heart of Strasbourg.
