Strasbourg

With its 142-meter-high tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral presides over the city of Strasbourg and the entire Alsatian plain. The façade of this masterpiece of Gothic art is decorated with a multitude of figures and is made of pink sandstone. Inside, the astronomical clock comes to life every day at 12:30. And the view from the platform at the top makes up for the 330 steps!

The historic center around the cathedral earned Strasbourg its first inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1988. In 2017, the Neustadt district was added to the list. This part of the city, built during the German era (1871-1918), is well worth a visit.

Our tip: cycle along the banks of the Ill River to the nearby European Quarter.

Strasbourg is considered the capital of Europe, as various European institutions are based in Strasbourg. The European Parliament, the European Court of Human Rights, the European Ombudsman, Eurocorps and, since 1949, the Council of Europe.

With its timber-framed houses, flower-lined bridges, small squares and alleyways, the Petite France district has a real charm all of its own. In the Middle Ages, fishermen, millers and tanners plied their trade here on the banks of the Ill. Today, it's the tourist and romance district without question. In the evening, it's the ideal place for a drink and a meal in one of the typical restaurants.

As France's third greenest city, Strasbourg leads the country in bicycle lanes: nearly 600 km of them. Cycling is king here, and there are plenty of opportunities for safe, enjoyable rides. So don't hesitate, rent a bike and venture beyond the historic center, for example along the charming, tree-lined Bruche Canal.     

trasbourg has not one, but dozens of Christmas markets. The largest, the Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest in Europe (1570). Around the cathedral and Place de Broglie, its pretty chalets offer a multitude of items for your Christmas gifts or decorations. Mulled wine and traditional cookies spread delicious scents of spices and cinnamon. In the evening, the magic takes hold as garlands, lanterns and lights twinkle in the night. There's no doubt about it, Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas!

Despite its eventful history, Strasbourg was able to preserve its rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the lovingly restored old town - to the red sandstone cathedral, through the picturesque Petite France quarter with its historic half-timbered houses, to the magnificent Château des Rohan - and be inspired by the charm of the numerous restaurants or wine taverns.

For your city break in Strasbourg, opt for the train! From Basel, the journey takes less than 1.5 hours. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you'll arrive in the heart of the city and save yourself the hassle of parking. The entire historic center of Strasbourg is easily explored on foot, by bus or by bike.

Among the hidden gems in Strasbourg are places off the beaten track of the classic Old Town routes. Less frequented are the residential neighbourhoods of the Neustadt, with their wide streets and historic buildings dating from the Imperial era. An additional vantage point from the roof of the Barrage Vauban offers a free view of the Ponts Couverts and the River Ill. The Krutenau district, with its small cafés, bookshops and galleries, is also quieter than La Petite France. Walks along the River Ill in the European Quarter and through the Parc de l’Orangerie, away from the main paths, are also considered relaxing alternatives to the more crowded areas.

Strasbourg is easily accessible by train from abroad. There are direct services from Paris, Frankfurt am Main and Stuttgart, amongst other destinations. Travellers from other regions, such as Switzerland, southern Germany or the Benelux countries, usually change trains at these hubs. Strasbourg railway station is centrally located and is directly connected to the city’s public transport network.

Among the typical sights in Strasbourg are Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic landmark; the La Petite France district with its half-timbered houses and canals; and the old town surrounding the cathedral. These are complemented by the spacious New Town, built around 1900. The old town and the New Town are jointly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yes, Strasbourg is ideal for a city break, as many of its attractions are concentrated in a small area and are easily accessible on foot. The combination of the historic old town, the new town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and a distinctive regional cuisine offers plenty of variety. What’s more, the city is easily accessible thanks to its location and excellent rail links.