The Top Things to Do and See in Strasbourg
Located on the German-French border, Strasbourg is a charming city in the heart of the Alsace region. The legacy of this area is a unique Alsatian culture that forges together the finest aspects of both countries. Visit the European Parliament, admire the quaint buildings of La Petite France and don’t leave without sampling a glass of vin in a local winstub – here are the top things to do and see while visiting Strasbourg, France.
1. Marvel at Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Cathedral, Church, Building, Historical Landmark
2. Stroll through the Parc de l’Orangerie
Park
3. Soak up history in La Petite France
Architectural Landmark
4. Musée Alsacien
Museum
5. Watch politics in action at the European Parliament
Architectural Landmark
6. Smell the roses at the Botanical Gardens of Strasbourg University
Botanical Garden
7. Cycle around the city
Architectural Landmark
It doesn’t take long to realise that the best way to explore Strasbourg is on two wheels. Long considered the country’s cycling capital, the city crams in over 600km of cycle paths, with an estimated 16 percent of its workforce using bikes to commute. Thanks to its intuitive Velhop system, you don’t even need to have your own – its “bike when you like” initiative means more than 6,000 bikes are available to pick up throughout the city.
8. Snap a photo from the Barrage Vauban
Historical Landmark
Named after Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, the renowned military engineer who designed it, this dam is a remarkable feat of 17th-century engineering. It was built during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 and intended to raise the River Ill and flood southern areas of the city in the event of enemy attack. These days, the dam – which sits on 13 limestone arches – is primarily used as a spot for tourists to take the best picture of Strasbourg.
9. Take in a wine tour south of Strasbourg
Natural Feature
An early morning pick up from Strasbourg’s tourist office is how a typical wine tasting day begins, as you begin the short journey south, stopping at Alsace’s best caveaux. The region’s role in historic duels between France and Germany is reflected in its most famous wines, which are heavily influenced by France’s eastern neighbour. Sup the finest Riesling from a flûte d’Alsace while soaking up views between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine valley.
10. Tuck in at Winstub Zuem Strissel
Wine Bar, French
For a true taste of Alsatian food, drink and culture, make a beeline for one of the city’s many popular wine joints known as winstubs. Originally devised by local winemakers who saw it as a way to squeeze profit from every drop of surplus grog, the tradition has lasted the test of time. Winstubs like Zuem Strissel have retained their homely, community vibe – they’re the best places to try local wine and Alsatian favourites, like choucroute garnie (sauerkraut and sausages) and flammekueche (a bacon and onion flatbread).
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