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Strasbourg, France is an absolutely enchanting city in the Alsace Region. The best things to do in Strasbourg are to walk the picturesque lanes, see the half-timbered houses and marvel at the incredibly detailed cathedral.
Strasbourg sights all seem to vie for traveler’s attention. During our Alsace trip, we soaked in the charm of the city and we found that there is plenty to see and do. To help fellow travelers plan their visit, we are sharing our list of the top things to do in Strasbourg!
Things To Do in Strasbourg, France
Deciding what to do in Strasbourg, France depends on your interests, how long you are staying and what time of year you are traveling to Alsace.
Strasbourg is a city that is both historic and modern. Boasting landmark architecture and a unique culture that is both French and German, the city dazzles visitors.
The best things to do in Strasbourg are centrally located and easy to reach on foot. It is possible to visit Strasbourg in one day, but we can assure you there are reasons to stay longer.
We had 3 days in Strasbourg to explore. During that time we discovered 7 essential things to do in Strasbourg to experience the best of the city. Travelers can use our Strasbourg To Do list to create their perfect trip plan!
What To Visit in Strasbourg – With or Without a Guide?
While we include all the must see attractions and details about each sight, the history of this French city is complex and sometimes complicated. Visitors can learn more about the past and the landmarks of Strasbourg on a tour. We opted to use the affordable Strasbourg Tourist Office Audio Guide Tour (which came with a handy map) for exploring.
With the audio guide, we could move at our own pace to Strasbourg, France attractions and take as long as we wanted at each stop. Alternatively, travelers can join a guided city tour. We share more tips about Strasbourg tours a bit later.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Strasbourg Travel Guide for your trip to France!
7 Best Things To Do in Strasbourg, France
As a destination that appeals to many – history buffs, hard-core sightseers, shopaholics and foodies can all find something to love about Strasbourg! Our list of Essential Things To Do in Strasbourg incorporates a little of something for everyone’s trip to France.
#1 Size Up The Strasbourg Cathedral
Standing prominently in the Strasbourg city center, the Notre Dame Cathedral (also called the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg) is one of the must see attractions.
With a spire that reaches 465 feet, the ornately decorated Gothic church can be seen from afar, but the best view is up close. It took more than 400 years to build the cathedral, which abounds with beauty, both inside and out.
The Cathedral in Strasbourg: What To See
When we visited the famous Strasbourg church, before entering we took time to marvel at the meticulous stone carvings on the façade, which rise above the arches of the front doors. The carved cast of characters and intricate details extend to the top of the spire, which we could only see when we took a few steps backward into the cobblestoned square.
Inside the cathedral we gazed up at the Great Organ, clinging to the side of the nave like a barnacle, and inspected the delicately sculpted stone pulpit. From there, we turned back toward the entrance of the church for a wonderful view of the colorful Rose Window with sunlight streaming through it. Standing in the South Transept, we found the highly-touted Pillar of Angels and Astronomical Strasbourg Cathedral Clock.
Strasbourg Astronomical Clock
The Strasbourg Clock dates to the year 1547, but was drastically enhanced in 1842 to include the astonishingly accurate planetary dial and ecclesiastical calendar mechanism. At 12:30 every day, the clock presents the 12 Apostles parading before Jesus and the cock crowing three times.
While the ‘show’ itself is not all that exciting, the Strasbourg Astronomical Clock video that begins at 12 noon was incredibly informative.
Note: A ticket is required to view the Notre Dame Clock 12:30 Presentation.
Strasbourg Cathedral Platform
The cathedral platform sits directly above the main portal at 217 feet – and climbing up to it is one of the best Strasbourg activities.
Visitors are invited to climb more than 330 steps to the platform. The sweeping views stretch over the classically tiled Strasbourg rooftops, the Alsace region and, when the weather is clear, all the way to the German Black Forest.
Although it is the scenic view the lures people to top, we found the etchings at the base of the spire equally intriguing. Left by visitors of the past, some of the ornate carvings date to the 1600s.
Note: A ticket is required to climb the steps to the platform.
Strasbourg Notre Dame Cathedral Facts
- The Strasbourg, France Cathedral was built from the year 1015 to 1439.
- The Cathedral reigned as the Tallest Building in the World for 227 years, from 1647 to 1874. Today, it ranks as the 6th-tallest church in the world; of French cathedrals, it is the 2nd-tallest.
- The Rose Window on the west façade measures 45-feet in diameter.
- Some of the stained-glass windows date from the 12th-14th centuries.
- Strasbourg Cathedral Opening Hours and Admission: The cathedral is open daily in the mornings and afternoons, but is closed for lunch. There is no charge to enter the cathedral – it is one of the best free things to do in Strasbourg!
Sights Around Strasbourg Notre Dame Cathedral
Before leaving the vicinity of the cathedral, we recommend taking in the nearby sights. We are highlighting a few of the must-see Strasbourg sights near the church.
Maison Kammerzell
Maison Kammerzell sits to the left of the cathedral. Often referred to as ‘the most beautiful house in Strasbourg’, Maison Kammerzel dates to the 15th century and boasts phenomenal carvings on the façade.
Place du Chateau and Palais Rohan
Place du Chateau and Palais Rohan are to the right of the cathedral. The spacious square, Place du Chateau, offers incredible views of the cathedral. Plus, there’s plenty of seating for a picnic lunch and free public bathrooms.
Palais Rohan, built in the 1730s, was the residence of prince-bishops and cardinals; today it houses 3 museums (which can be visited for a fee). If the Palais Rohan doors are open, wander into the spacious courtyard for a glimpse at the interior.
Strasbourg Shops
Shopping in Strasbourg is one of the top activities – and the area surrounding the cathedral is a best place to do it. Shops line the pedestrian-only streets leading away from the cathedral in Old Town Strasbourg.
The most picturesque Strasbourg shopping street is Rue des Orfevres (Goldschmidtgass), which can be found leading away from the cathedral just past Maison Kammerzell.
Strasbourg Office du Tourisme
The Strasbourg Tourist Office is a great place to pick up important information, such as a tourist map and the Strasbourg Pass. We’ll talk more about the Tourist Pass later in the post.
Map of Strasbourg Cathedral Sights
#2 Cruise the Canals on a Strasbourg Boat Tour
Taking a boat trip is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city and should be on every Strasbourg itinerary!
We took a Strasbourg, France boat tour with Batorama. Their fleet of boats include both open-air and covered/air-conditioned options with multiple departures daily. The 1-hour boat trip around old Strasbourg, titled “20 Centuries of History,” offers commentary (via headset) in 12 languages as well as a special commentary for the young ones.
During our boat ride in Strasbourg, we were presented with interesting facts, as well as information regarding the best places to visit. As most of our exploration was done on foot, it was lovely to sit back and enjoy the scenery via boat.
Note: The Batorama Strasbourg sightseeing boat requires a ticket. Bookings can be made online or in person at the Batorama office.
#3 Wander the Best Strasbourg Quartiers
Strasbourg is a small, yet diverse city. Centuries of history have left their imprint in the form of distinctive quartiers (or districts).
While many tourists limit their visit to the Old Town and Petite France, the districts that lie beyond the Grande Ile are equally intriguing Strasbourg places to visit. We are sharing where to go in Strasbourg to see the most enthralling neighborhoods.
Old Town Strasbourg
At the heart of the city is the Strasbourg Cathedral – and around it the Old Town. Located on the Grande Ile (or Large Island), the Old Town is a Strasbourg must-see! The Grande Ile – as a whole – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take time to ramble along the quaint Strasbourg streets – which are home to some of the best shops and cafes in Strasbourg.
La Petite France Strasbourg
The Quartier des Tanneurs, or the Petite France district, is another one of the best places to see in Strasbourg. The district is located west of the Old Town on the Grande Ile and on the small islands where the river splits into three channels.
Considered by many to be the most attractive part of Strasbourg, it was once the poorest. The area developed in the 14th century as a river port and housing was built there for the fishermen, millers and dock workers.
The name, Petite France, comes from the 15th century. This was when a hospital was built on the island to contain patients with syphilis, which was nicknamed ‘French Disease,’ by Germans – thus, La Petite France.
Despite the unfortunate origins, visiting Petite France is one of the top Strasbourg, France things to do today!
Petite France Attractions
Many visitors wonder exactly what to visit in Strasbourg Petite France – so we are highlighting a few of the specific things to see in the district. That said, one of the top things to do Strasbourg is to simply wander and Petite France is a wonderful place to do it!
Maison des Tanneurs Half Timbered House
A classic half-timbered Strasbourg house, Maison des Tanneurs sits on the canal and was home to the Tanner’s Guild. Incredibly picturesque from the outside, the interior of the original house has been renovated to host a restaurant serving classic Alsatian cuisine.
For more beautiful half-timbered houses, walk down Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, which begins in front of Maison des Tanneurs.
Ponts Couverts
Crossing the four river channels, Ponts Couverts – complete with three bridges and four towers – was built in the 13th century for defensive purposes. During the Middle Ages, the bridge was covered to provide protection for the soldiers who stood guard. No longer a covered bridge, but still incredibly picturesque, Ponts Couverts is classified a historic monument.
Barrage Vauban
To the west of Ponts Couverts is Barrage Vauban, a defensive dam built in the 17th century. If the city was attacked, doors could be lowered from the 13 arches on the dam, thus flooding the land south and making it impossible for enemy soldiers to enter.
Today, visitors can walk through the arcade to cross the river – or ascend the stairs to the observation deck (open only during the day). The elevated lookout provides stunning views of Ponts Couverts, Petite France and the Strasbourg Cathedral.
Neustadt Strasbourg
Neustadt (or New Town) is the district northeast of the Old Town. Featuring grand architecture, spacious squares and wide lanes, Neustadt was built as a new Strasbourg city center by the Germans from 1871 to 1918. The carefully planned district now stands as one of the Strasbourg UNESCO sites.
The construction of Neustadt tripled the size of the city – and today the district hosts many Strasbourg things to see.
Among the top tourist attractions in Neustadt are Place de la Republique, St. Paul’s Church, University Palace and Library and the Palace of Justice. Additionally, there are numerous villas in various architectural styles – from Baroque Revival to Art Nouveau – along Allee de la Robertsau and the surrounding streets.
Krutenau Neighborhood
Located southeast of Grande Ile, Krutenau is not home to any top attractions, but it is definitely one of the places to go in Strasbourg! With origins as a low-class neighborhood, the district was overhauled in the 1970s to provide university student housing. With trendy restaurants and hip cafes, Krutenau is the center of Strasbourg nightlife.
European Quarter
Northeast of Neustadt is the contemporary European Quarter. A cluster of modern buildings housing European Institutions – including European Parliament, Council of Europe and European Court of Human Rights – sits at the crossroads of waterways. The sleek design of the European Quarter, which is in stark contrast to the rest of the city, is one of the unique things to see in Strasbourg, France.
Map of Strasbourg Districts and Sights
#4 Relax in Strasbourg Parks And Squares
We love spending time outdoors – and in Strasbourg there are numerous parks and squares to idle away sunny afternoons.
Strasbourg, France Parks
During our time in Strasbourg, we enjoyed visiting several parks – and Parc de l’Orangerie and the Strasbourg Botanical Garden were are favorites. In addition to the formal parks, there is ample green space along the riverside. The grassy, sometimes shaded riverbanks were a perfect (and popular) spot to have a picnic lunch, read a book or just take a rest from sightseeing Strasbourg.
Parc de l’Orangerie
Parc de l’Orangerie ranks as the oldest park in Strasbourg. Located in the European Quarter, the area occupies 64 acres of land. At the park visitors will find several tree-lined paths, pretty gardens, a couple of restaurants, a small zoo, a pond and a bowling alley.
The Botanical Gardens of Strasbourg University
The Strasbourg Botanical Garden, which is part of the university, dates to 1884. In addition to the 6,000 species of plants, there is also a planetarium. During our spring visit, however, the main draw was the mating frogs in the ponds (which could be heard all the way from outside the park entrance!).
Strasbourg Squares
The city is dotted with picturesque squares – and seeing them is one of the best Strasbourg things to do. When strolling to Strasbourg sights, we recommend routing your way through these pretty squares.
Place du Chateau
As mentioned before, Place du Chateau is the spacious square between the Strasbourg Cathedral and Palais Rohan. It’s the best place to see the true size of the cathedral.
Place Kleber
The largest square in Strasbourg, Place Kleber features the massive 18th century pink sandstone Aubette Building and a statue of Jean-Baptiste Kleber.
Place Gutenberg
Place Gutenberg dates to the year 1100 and is bordered by the Lower Rhine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building (formerly the Town Hall). A statue of printer Johannes Gutenberg stands in the center next to a carousel.
Place de la Republique
Located in Neustadt, Place de la Republique features a circular garden, which is the centerpiece of the square, and is surrounded by monumental structures. On the west side of the square is The Rhine Palace, which was built for the emperor. On the east are the National University Library and Strasbourg National Theater and in the center is a monument to soldiers.
Place Broglie
The rectangular square that is home to a mish-mash of architecture and monuments. Place Broglie hosts a fabulous flea and produce market (Wednesdays and Fridays) – as well as one of the Strasbourg Christmas markets. The grand Opera House stands at the top end of the square, just across the river from Place de la Republique.
Place du Marche Gayot
Nearly hidden, Place du March Gayot is an enclosed square behind the cathedral that has 8 entrances. Inside the space, there are ample choices of outdoor cafes inviting visitors to stop for a rest and a refreshment (when in France, right?).
Place Saint-Etienne
A modest but pleasant square, Place Saint-Etienne is surrounded by half-timbered houses with two trees and a fountain at the center.
Place d’Austerlitz
One of the festive squares in the Krutenau district, Place d’Austerlitz is lined with cafes and is a central meeting point for families and friends.
Place Benjamin-Zix
Place Benjamin-Zix is a quaint, but lively square in Petite France. Situated along the river, visitors will find both the Maison des Tanneurs and the popular La Corde a Linge Café on the square.
Place des Tripiers
Place des Tripiers is just a lovely little square in Strasbourg that dates to 1894 – and hosts a market on Saturdays!
Map of Strasbourg Parks and Squares
#5 Marvel at More Churches in Strasbourg
While visiting the cathedral is a must do in Strasbourg, it shouldn’t be the only church in the city that you visit.
In total, there are 11 churches in – or on the perimeter of – the Grande Ile. Some are Protestant, some are Catholic. Not all churches are open to the public, but if the doors were open, we recommend taking a look inside. Three of these churches made our list of top places to visit in Strasbourg, France.
St. Pierre Le Jeune Protestant Church
St. Pierre Le Jeune Protestant Church (or St. Peter the Young) completely wowed us (which is rare, as we visit a lot of churches).
The historic space is lavishly decorated with 14th century frescoes and a 1780 organ that is perched on the unique and ornamental choir screen. The church provides information cards (in multiple languages) to point out the top features, like the 7th century crypt, where bones are on display.
St. Thomas Church
St. Thomas Church in the Strasbourg Old Town has a significant history as both a Catholic and Lutheran church (which it is now). Inside, there two sights to see. First, take a look at the organ, which was played by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in 1778. Next, shift your attention to the mausoleum of Marshall Maurice de Saxe, which was created by Jean-Baptiste Pigalle.
St. Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s Church was built in the late 1800s in the Gothic Revival style. The twin spires measure 250-feet-tall, making it the second tallest church in Strasbourg (after the cathedral, of course). The church was closed during our visit, so we were not able to see the historic pipe organ that dates to 1897.
Additional Places of Worship in Strasbourg
We have outlined the three best churches in Strasbourg, but fellow travelers might also want to seek out more of the city’s religious structures.
The other top churches in Strasbourg are St. Nicholas Church, Le Bouclier Church, St. Pierre le Vieux Church, St. Jean’s Church, St. Pierre le Jeune Catholic Church, St. Guillaume’s Church, Temple Neuf Church and St. Madeleine’s Church.
Other notable religious sites are the Great Mosque of Strasbourg and the Great Synagogue.
Google Map of Strasbourg Churches
#6 Feast On Strasbourg, France Food and Drink
There is no doubt that one of the great things to do in Strasbourg is to get a taste of the local cuisine and sip the regional Alsace wine. There are many choices, so we are highlighting just a few must-try dishes and must-taste drinks.
What To Eat in Strasbourg
When searching for places to eat in Strasbourg, you don’t have to look far. The city boasts numerous eateries serving classic, Alsace regional dishes.
Foie gras, which is said to have been invented in the city in 1780, is a Strasbourg famous food. Other things to eat in Strasbourg are sauerkraut, baeckeoffe, Munster cheese and tarte flambee (a thin pizza-like dish that ranks as our favorite food in Strasbourg).
Alsatian pubs, called winstubs, pair seasonal dishes with local wine and are popular places to eat for locals and tourist alike. If you are looking for more of the top Strasbourg places to eat Alsatian cuisine, check out these reviews on TripAdvisor.
For something sweet, there are plenty of pastry and chocolate shops offering treats. The beautifully crafted Alsace desserts are displayed in window cases. When it is warm outside, shops sell artisan ice cream from street stands. Visitors and residents stroll side-by-side down the streets of Strasbourg with a cone in hand. Try the mint chocolate chip cone from Jeff de Bruges.
Pro Tip: Deciding what and where to eat in Strasbourg can feel overwhelming. One of the great ways to get a taste of the local cuisine is on a fabulous food tour – like this one!
Drinking in Strasbourg
The Alsace region is well-known for its wine and beer production – and sampling the product is one of the fun things to do in Strasbourg at night! Fifty percent of the beer produced in France is made by five companies in Alsace.
White wine is the Alsace region specialty – and although we prefer red, we couldn’t resist sampling a few Alsace vin blancs. Local wine is served almost everywhere – and we enjoyed it in the afternoon sitting at an al fresco café. Our favorite spot was riverside, under the shady trees at the cafes just north of Ponts Couverts.
During our trip, we were equally interested in tasting the local French Craft Beer. One of the best bars in Strasbourg for craft beer is Academie de la Biere. We liked the IPA (and it pairs well with the Forestiere Gratinee tarte flambee) at Academie de la Biere so much that on our short visit, we dined at the restaurant twice! Another craft beer bar in Strasbourg that we highly recommend is Les BerThoM, which has a great happy hour and friendly service.
Pro Tip: For a drink-with-a-view, head to the floating pubs on Quai des Pecheurs. Three moored boats offer on-board and on-sidewalk seating. We preferred the river-facing seats at Café Atlantico!
#7 Brush Up on History at Strasbourg Museums
The history of Strasbourg is fascinating…and a little confusing for those without a comprehensive understanding of Europe’s past. Visiting a Strasbourg history museum can help sort the timeline of events in Strasbourg.
Musee Alsacien Strasbourg Museum
Although there are several Strasbourg museums that delve into the past, we were most intrigued by the Musee Alsacien, which chronicles the life and culture of the Alsatian people. The museum is filled with detailed displays and the provided audio guide recounted numerous Strasbourg fun facts.
Cave Historique des Hospices
Another Strasbourg museum that we visited was the historical wine cellar, Cave Historique des Hospices. Located beneath the hospital, where it was founded in 1395, the small cellar features a single row of wooden barrels. Visiting the subterranean museum is one of the unusual things to do in Strasbourg, France.
At the end of the row, secured behind an iron gate, are barrels that hold the ‘world’s oldest barreled wine,’ which dates to 1472. The wine has only been offered for tasting three times on very special occasions – in the years 1576, 1716 and 1944.
The wine produced in the other barrels is for sale in the gift shop in the bottles labeled ‘Cave des Hospies’ (but, unfortunately, you can’t taste any on-site).
Note: The historic wine cellar is free to visit and audio guides can be rented.
More Top Museums in Strasbourg, France
During our Strasbourg visit, we only went to two museums. However, there are many others to choose from – and we are highlighting a few of the most popular.
Palais Rohan – Housing three separate museums: Archaeological Museum, Decorative Arts Museum and Fine Arts Museum)
Oeuvre Notre Dame Museum – Featuring the history of Strasbourg from the Middle Ages to the French Revolution
Strasbourg Historical Museum – A Strasbourg history museum featuring everyday artifacts and audio guide
Zoological Museum – A Strasbourg University museum displaying animals and insects
Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – The Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain de Strasbourg is a contemporary art museum showcasing modern artworks and photographs.
Strasbourg Map
Use this Google Map to access an interactive, online version of our Strasbourg, France Map below.
More Things To Do Strasbourg
In our list, we outlined some of the absolute best Strasbourg things to do, but we have a few more ideas for your trip plan.
Strasbourg Tours
Taking a tour is an excellent way to get better acquainted with the city. We opted to use the affordable self-guided audio tour of Strasbourg – and it was a great introduction. We learned even more during the Strasbourg Canal Tour. That said, there are many guided tours in Strasbourg to choose from – and we are highlighting a few of the best.
Top Tours in Strasbourg
Fellow travelers may want to add one – or more – of these tours to their Strasbourg itinerary.
Guided Strasbourg Walking Tour
Join this exceptional guided tour for a spectacular introduction to the city – including hidden gems and legendary stories. Find out more!
Guided Bike Tour
On a City Bike Tour, let a guide lead you through the city streets on two wheels while entertaining you with stories and history of the beautiful city.
Segway Tour
Discover the best of Strasbourg on a fun Segway Tour! Participants spend 2 hours with a local guide, visiting must-see Strasbourg sights.
Free Walking Tour Strasbourg
There are a few different companies that offer free walking tours in Strasbourg. Just keep in mind that the Strasbourg free walking tour guide is likely working for tips.
Strasbourg Food Tour
We have mentioned how much we loved the food in Strasbourg – and what better way to get a taste than on a guided food tour! Participants get to taste multiple dishes for different restaurants and shops. Reserve your space!
Strasbourg Day Trips
While travelers will have no problem finding fun things to do in Strasbourg, there are several nearby destinations that are worth visiting while in the Grand Est region, too!
Alsace Day Trip
The quaint villages in the Alsace Region are some of the best places to visit near Strasbourg. Take a guided trip to see charming villages and historic castles on a full-day Alsace Day Trip. This excursion from Strasbourg visits some of our favorite cities in the region – like Colmar, Riquewihr and Eguisheim.
Alsace Wine Route Wine Tasting Day Trip
Spend a full day sampling some of the best French wines in the region along the Alsace Wine Route. Tour participants get to sip and swirl wines from multiple venues in several small Alsace villages.
Freiburg, Germany
Cross the border to see Freiburg and the famed Black Forest on a day trip from Strasbourg. Guides lead tour participants on a private tour through the quaint streets of Freiburg then along a scenic route through the forest. Find out more!
Top Tips for Sightseeing in Strasbourg
As you start to plan your Strasbourg vacation, we have a few tourist tips that will be sure to help.
Strasbourg City Pass
Consider purchasing the Strasbourg Pass as an economical way to see top attractions. We used the pass for the Batorama Boat Ride, the Cathedral Platform, the Astronomical Clock, the Alsatian Museum and the discounted Audio Guide for Strasbourg on Foot. Plus, the card offers additional sights and attractions we didn’t have time for!
We recommend you price out the attractions you plan to visit to determine if the card will be cost effective. The Strasbourg Pass is available at the Tourist Office.
Strasbourg Trip Organization
Of course there’s more to planning your trip than figuring out the best things to do in Strasbourg! Travelers also need to consider where to stay, how to get there and what to pack. We are sharing our tips on all three of these points next.
Staying organized as you plan your trip to Europe is equally important. As you make reservations and research sights, keep track of the details with our Printable Travel Planner!
When To Visit: Strasbourg Weather
We think Strasbourg is a year-round destination, but fellow travelers should determine the best time to visit Alsace based on their desired activities.
Spring and Summer
We think the spring and summer weather in Strasbourg is the best for visitors. The long, sunny days are perfect for exploring the neighborhoods, parks and squares. Likewise, it’s a great time for simply strolling along the riverside.
During our April visit, the city was bathed in springtime sunshine. In fact, the springtime weather was ideal when we visited Strasbourg – sunny and warm, but not too hot! Summertime can get hot – and very crowded with fellow tourists.
Autumn
Although it’s considered the shoulder season, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Strasbourg. The weather is cooler, crowds are thinner, but it’s harvest season if you were planning on visiting wineries.
Winter
Unlike many other European cities, the peak month in Strasbourg is December, when the Christmas Market takes place. Even though the weather will be cold, expect big crowds and high-priced hotel rooms.
January and February can be a great time to visit, too. However, some attractions may be closed and the weather can be chilly for outdoor sightseeing.
Regardless of when you plan your trip, be sure to check the Strasbourg, France Weather before you start packing.
How Many Days in Strasbourg?
Deciding how many days to spend in Strasbourg can be a real struggle. There are so many things to see and do in Strasbourg that visitors could easily spend 5 days and not get bored.
While visiting in a day is possible, we feel you need at least 2 days in Strasbourg to see and experience the top attractions and sights. Which is why a weekend in Strasbourg is a great idea!
For us, 3 days in Strasbourg was ideal. We were never rushed and had ample time to experience the highlights at a relaxing pace. On the other hand, visitors planning to spend 4 days in Strasbourg – or longer – will have the opportunity to discover more of the region.
Where To Stay in Strasbourg
Without a doubt, the best place to stay in Strasbourg is in – or very close to – the Grand Ile. From the central location, visitors can easily explore on foot.
During our visit to Strasbourg, we stayed at the Montempo Apparthotel. We thought it was okay for the price, small kitchen and location (just a 5 minute walk to Petite France).
Hotels in Strasbourg
Visitors looking for places to stay will find that there are many Strasbourg hotels to choose from. Before booking, read our tips for Finding the Best Hotel Rooms.
We are highlighting a few of the top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) that are located in the Old Town for your upcoming trip.
Cour du Corbeau MGallery
A 4-star hotel in a historic building with modern conveniences, Cour du Corbeau receives superb reviews – plus they offer a delicious breakfast. Check availability for your stay!
Hotel Les Haras
Elegant, yet comfortable, Les Haras gets rave reviews from guests! Top features are the welcoming staff, the impeccable details and the on-site spa. Check rates!
BOMA Hotel Nouvelle Generation
The BOMA Hotel in Strasbourg stands out for its bright décor and friendly staff – as well as the buffet breakfast. Check availability!
Getting to Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg can be reached by plane, train, bus, car or river cruise. We arrived via bus from Frankfurt and departed via bus to Basel, Switzerland.
Strasbourg Airport
The Strasbourg International Airport (SXB) is located just 4 miles from the Strasbourg city centre. The airport is well connected to major European cities. Travelers can use public transit or taxis to get between the airport and the city.
Pro Tip: When we need to purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner.
Trains and Buses to Strasbourg
If visiting Strasbourg as part of a longer European Vacation, you may arrive overland, instead. Check for bus and train routes to Strasbourg on Rome2Rio.
Before You Go To Strasbourg
We have a few final tips about what to pack for your trip to Strasbourg. You can find our complete packing list and other valuable advice on our dedicated Travel Packing Page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get started!
Durable Walking Shoes
Strasbourg is a very walkable city…but only if you have the perfect travel shoes! Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have always packed comfortable shoes for traveling – these are my current favorites! Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes for city exploration.
Travel Camera
There is no doubt you will be snapping tons of photos during your trip. Strasbourg is so photogenic! Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to a real camera for high quality photos.
We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is great for beginners) and use an everyday 18-135mm lens to photograph city sights.
However, we also carry a Canon PowerShot ELPH as a backup. It takes beautiful pictures and is a slim, lightweight budget camera.
France Guidebook
Traveling to other parts of France? Oui, ouI! Find all of our top tips – like Things To Do in Colmar and What To See in Paris – on our France Travel Guides Page. It is also a good idea to explore with a trusted guidebook if your travels are taking you to other destinations.
Day Pack for Traveling
With our list of things to do in Strasbourg, France, you will likely plan long days of sightseeing. In addition to your trusty suitcase or backpack, don’t forget a comfortable and functional day bag for your trip. We use our day packs to safely stow our camera, guidebook and wallets – as well as our everyday travel essentials!
France Trip Insurance
Check the affordable rates and broad coverage with a trusted travel insurance company, like World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to France! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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