Visit Strasbourg: Things to do and see in Strasbourg?
Summary
What to do and visit in Strasbourg over a weekend?
Looking for a place to spend a wonderful weekend? Lovers of history, nature, festivals, gastronomy, art, shopping, or simply Alsatian culture: Strasbourg is the place to be!
Visiting Strasbourg means visiting the European capital, the Christmas capital, the bicycle capital, the capital of sauerkraut and flamküche, a strong culture, an innovative city, the birthplace of our national anthem, its Christmas market, and above all… Alsatian generosity!
The list is very long, but as you’ve understood, Strasbourg has nothing to envy the major tourist destinations and attracts nearly 22 million tourists every year!
It’s essential to plan your stay and know what to do in Strasbourg before you arrive.
Ideally, spend 3 days in Strasbourg: 2 days walking around the city and 1 day exploring the surroundings. Of course, you can easily plan your visits for a 2-day weekend in Strasbourg.
If you arrive by plane or train, you can easily rent a car in Strasbourg and visit beautiful sites in Alsace and/or Germany.
Enough chatter! Here’s our TOP 10 must-see and things to do in Strasbourg. As they say in Alsace: “Jetzt geht’s los!”
1 - The "cathédrale Notre-Dame"
Certainly, the most popular and impressive place in Strasbourg, the cathedral stands tall with its many pink sandstone blocks in the city’s historic center. It took 3 centuries of construction to build one of the world’s tallest cathedrals (142 meters high). Its spire can be seen from over 100 km away!
If you’re visiting Strasbourg, this is a must-see. Enter for free and discover the magnificent stained glass windows adorning the walls. At the back of the cathedral, you’ll find a clock from another era: the astronomical clock. Every day at 12:30 pm, the clock starts, a real spectacle to see! A true masterpiece of the 19th century, this clock displays the time, civil and religious calendars, and astronomical data.
Enjoy an exceptional view of Strasbourg by climbing the 330 steps to reach the panoramic platform on the cathedral’s roofs. Entry for the panoramic view costs €8 per person.
2 - The Grande île
When visiting Strasbourg, this is the first thing to do! The Grande Île is located in the center of Strasbourg, bordered by a river: the Ill. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, this district originated from the birth of Strasbourg (Argentoratum) in the early 1st century by Romans who fortified their camp.
Today, the Grande Île is a must-see when visiting Strasbourg. You’ll find many typical 15th-century buildings, Notre-Dame Cathedral, churches, and the famous Kammerzell house. Walk along the quays and admire the Alsatian half-timbered houses.
3 - The Petite France
A very famous district of Strasbourg, La Petite France is located in old Strasbourg. It’s a must-visit in Strasbourg!
Originally, the district was named after a 15th-century military hospital that housed soldiers with syphilis. Over time, the district developed thanks to the workshops of fishermen, tanners, and millers.
The architecture of the buildings is particularly remarkable and typical of Alsatian half-timbered houses. You’ll see boats navigating the canals of the Ill and the operation of an old lock still in use.
4 - The Covered Bridges and Vauban Dam
Another remarkable place you can visit in Strasbourg:
A short walk from the La Petite France district, you can see the covered bridges. These medieval bridges were used to fortify the waterways to protect Strasbourg from enemies. The bridges connecting the three guard towers were covered with a wooden roof, hence the name “covered bridges.”
On the horizon, you’ll see the Vauban dam. This 17th-century historical monument is a military building designed to protect the city against the advent of firearms. During an attack, the dam could flood entire neighborhoods to repel the invader. It was notably used during the siege of Strasbourg in 1870.
You can walk through the building for free to discover gargoyles and rooms from another time. This place is particularly appreciated because you can access its panoramic terrace at the top of the building. From there, you can admire a magnificent view of Strasbourg and its covered bridges.
5 - The Squares of Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a city with many squares that commemorate some significant historical figures. All these squares are mainly pedestrian and pleasant to walk through. Here are the squares you can visit in Strasbourg:
- Place Kléber is the largest square in Strasbourg. It’s the meeting point for Strasbourg residents during major events. In its center is the statue of General Kléber, a Strasbourg native famous for his many conquests in the 19th century. The square is surrounded by some remarkable buildings, including the Aubette, which was a military building.
- Place Gutenberg is located a few steps from Strasbourg Cathedral. This square is named after the inventor of printing, who lived there for nearly 10 years. In the Middle Ages, this square was the administrative and political center of the city of Strasbourg. Today, you can see a statue of Gutenberg, the chamber of commerce, and a famous old-fashioned carousel.
- Place Broglie is located a 5-minute walk from Place Kléber. This long avenue is a must during the Christmas season because of the famous Christkindelsmärik Christmas market. At the end of the square, you can see the Strasbourg Opera and even have a coffee there. Fun fact: “La Marseillaise” was sung for the first time in 1792 on this square!
6 - The Parks
After a good day of sightseeing, walking the streets of Strasbourg, we recommend taking a breath of fresh air in one of the city’s parks.
- The Orangerie Park is located near the European institutions district. It’s the largest park in Strasbourg: 26 hectares of nature! Loved by Strasbourg residents, the park offers many activities: jogging, canoeing, walks, picnics, a children’s playground, and a skate park. The park’s emblematic mini-zoo attracts many tourists who come to observe the animals and Alsatian storks.
- The Contades Park is located not far from Place de la République. This small park is ideal for resting and relaxing in the summer. Hotels and restaurants border the park. You’ll also see the large synagogue of Strasbourg.
7 - Visit Strasbourg by Boat
If you’re unsure what to do in Strasbourg during your visit, we recommend taking a barge tour. Discover the city from a new angle and navigate right in the heart of the city.
The departure of the barges is at the foot of the Palais Rohan. The visit can be done in any weather as the crew offers covered and open boats. Allow at least 1 hour for the visit.
Remember to book your tickets and schedule in advance on the website: Batorama.
8 - The European Institutions
If you’re visiting Strasbourg, take the opportunity to visit the various European institutions located near the Orangerie Park.
Stroll along the fun “Europe” trail, which will take you to the heart of the European district and the headquarters of the institutions. There are 9 major explanatory stages and a 2.5 km walk to visit the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights.
These visits are very popular with tourists wishing to know and see where significant decisions are made. In May, the Eurometropolis of Strasbourg organizes the Europe Festival with cultural events and debates.
9 - The Museums
If you still don’t know what you want to visit in Strasbourg, you can explore some museums. The city of Strasbourg has about ten diverse and varied museums with more than 150 events each year. Here’s a list of the main museums to visit in Strasbourg:
- The Alsatian Museum: This museum is a time machine. You’ll discover old Alsatian houses, many objects, furniture, and costumes from 18th and 19th-century Alsace.
- The Archaeological Museum: It’s one of the most important archaeology museums in France as it traces over 600,000 years of history in Alsace. It’s located in the basement of the Palais Rohan. Many unique objects in France are on display.
- The Museum of Fine Arts: Located on the first floor of the Palais Rohan, you’ll find European artworks from its beginnings to 1870.
- The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: Located next to the Vauban dam. You’ll discover many exhibitions and masterpieces by Picasso or Monet.
10 - Visits around Strasbourg
After visiting Strasbourg for 2 consecutive days, we recommend leaving the city and discovering all that Alsace has to offer. Villages, monuments, and exceptional places to discover with family or friends.
This list is not exhaustive but includes some well-known sites and places not to be missed! For more information, read our article: what to do in Alsace?
- Discover Alsatian towns and villages: Colmar, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim, Wissembourg, Haguenau, etc.
- Discover exceptional sites: Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, Mont Sainte-Odile, The Grand Ballon d’Alsace, The Struthof, the Vosges du Nord regional park, Nouveau-Windstein Castle, etc.
- Activities: Europapark (Germany), the Alsace Wine Route, Ecomuseum, The Monkey Mountain, etc.
Our favorite activities to do in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a city where you never get bored. In addition to visiting many squares or historical monuments, you can do many activities on-site. The hardest part will be choosing!
1- Cruise in the heart of Strasbourg
Strasbourg was built by the water, giving you the opportunity to discover and enjoy the city in an unusual way: a boat trip!
You can take an audio-guided tour of the city thanks to Batorama. The approximately 1.5-hour circuit will show you all four corners of the city.
To access it, just go to Place du Marché aux Poissons, 300m from Strasbourg Cathedral. The activity is also accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Highly recommended by tourists, we advise you to book your tickets in advance.
2 - Guided Segway Tour
Another activity to discover Strasbourg in an unconventional way is the Segway tour.
Despite what one might think, a Segway is very stable and suitable for most people. You can move around Strasbourg effortlessly and with great sensations!
You’ll be accompanied by a guide who can explain the history and everything you need to know about the city.
To access it, just go to Rue du Vieux Marché aux Vins near Place de Homme de Fer.
3 - A bike ride
Did you know? Strasbourg was voted the #1 bicycle-friendly city in France! So, if you want to discover Strasbourg by bike, it’s possible.
Its many bike paths and trails will allow you to see many monuments and places in the European city.
You can easily rent bikes or take a tour with a local guide!
4 - Unusual discovery of Strasbourg through games
Here’s an activity that will appeal to both young and old: treasure hunts, fun games, puzzles, etc., allowing you to see and visit many points of interest in Strasbourg.
5 - Light show at the Cathedral
Every summer, Strasbourg Cathedral is illuminated to highlight its magnificent architecture. It’s a light show worth seeing. It starts at 10:30 pm and takes place every 20 minutes until 12:30 am.
6 - Tasting local wines
Alsace is known for its many fine wines, so why not relax with a glass?
You can find many cellars to plan a tasting.
Otherwise, you can spend an afternoon or the whole day planning a little tour on the Alsace Wine Route, enjoying a circuit of local cellars.
7 - And many other activities...
The History and Culture of Strasbourg
Strasbourg, located at the crossroads of Europe, has a rich and complex history spanning over two millennia. Its past is marked by diverse influences, reflecting its strategic position between France and Germany.
Roman Origins
The city of Strasbourg, known in Roman times as Argentoratum, was founded in the 1st century BC. Its strategic position along the Rhine, which was then a natural border of the Roman Empire, quickly gave it military and commercial importance. The Rhine was an essential communication route for trade and military movements, and Argentoratum became a key crossing point.
Under Roman rule, Argentoratum developed as a fortified military camp, housing a garrison intended to protect the Empire’s border against the Germanic tribes on the other side of the Rhine. Over time, around this military camp, a civilian city developed, equipped with typical Roman city infrastructures: baths, forum, temples, and a road network.
With the barbarian invasions and the gradual decline of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century, Argentoratum lost its importance. However, the Roman legacy persisted. Roman foundations, roads, and some structures served as the basis for Strasbourg’s future growth in the Middle Ages.
Strasbourg in the Middle Ages
After the decline of the Roman Empire, Strasbourg became an episcopal city under the bishop’s authority. The bishop, as temporal and spiritual lord, played a central role in the city’s governance. Notre-Dame Cathedral, whose construction began in the 12th century, is the most prominent symbol of this period and the power of the bishopric.
Its strategic position along the Rhine made it a major commercial crossroads. Merchants and craftsmen grouped into guilds, which played an essential role in the city’s economy and politics.
During the Middle Ages, Strasbourg also became an education and culture center. In 1538, the University of Strasbourg was founded, attracting scholars from all over Europe. The city also became a significant hub for the humanist movement and the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.
Strasbourg under French and German Cultural Influence
Over the centuries, Strasbourg oscillated between French and German domination. It was integrated into the Kingdom of France in the 17th century under Louis XIV, then annexed by Germany after the Franco-Prussian war of 1870. After World War I, Strasbourg returned to France, only to be occupied again by Germany during World War II. It was liberated in 1944 and has remained French since then.
Thus, Strasbourg was chosen as the seat of several European institutions, including the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. This decision reflects Strasbourg’s role as a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation and European integration.
Strasbourg is proud of its rich historical and cultural heritage. The Petite France district, with its half-timbered houses and picturesque canals, is a living reminder of the city’s medieval history. Alsatian cuisine, a blend of French and German traditions, is celebrated in the city’s winstubs and breweries.
