Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a beautiful city filled with rich cultural and historic highlights, making it a must-visit in France. Known for its stunning blend of French and German influences, Strasbourg offers sights like the grand Strasbourg Cathedral, one of the tallest in the world, and the charming half-timbered houses in Petite France. The city’s history is captured through landmarks like the European Parliament and scenic canals.
With its vibrant cultural festivals, unique architecture, and picturesque streets, Strasbourg promises an unforgettable experience for tourists who want to dive into France’s cultural depth.
Strasbourg Cathedral
Description
Strasbourg Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Strasbourg, is one of the tallest and most beautiful Gothic buildings in Europe. Its stunning facade, intricate stained-glass windows, and the large astronomical clock draw visitors from around the world. From the top of the tower, you get a breathtaking view of Strasbourg.
Historical Significance of Strasbourg Cathedral
Completed in 1439, this cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and was the tallest building in the world for over 200 years. It holds immense cultural and religious importance in Strasbourg.
Location of Strasbourg Cathedral
Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Easily accessible by tram (Langstross Grand’Rue station) or a short walk from the city center.
Nearby Eateries
- Le Gruber: restaurant-gruber.com
- Maison Kammerzell: maison-kammerzell.com
Cost
Free to enter, with a fee of around €5 for tower access.
Petite France
Description
Petite France is a charming neighborhood with medieval half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and canals. Known for its unique architecture and beautiful flower displays, this area is ideal for walking and photography. It has many cafes, shops, and a picturesque riverside atmosphere.
Historical Significance of Petite France
Once a district for fishermen and tanners, Petite France is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and reflects Strasbourg’s historic charm.
Location of Petite France
Located in the historic center of Strasbourg, along the River Ill.
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Porte de l’Hôpital station) and walking.
Nearby Eateries
- Au Pont Corbeau: aupontcorbeau.fr
- La Petite Venise: restaurantlapetitevenise.fr
Cost
Free to explore.
European Parliament
Description
The European Parliament building is an impressive modern structure that hosts political meetings for European Union members. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about EU functions and explore the assembly hall.
Historical Significance of European Parliament
Strasbourg is one of the official seats of the European Parliament, symbolizing European unity and democracy.
Location of European Parliament
Allée du Printemps, 67070 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Parlement Européen station).
Nearby Eateries
- Chez Nous: cheznous-strasbourg.fr
- Brasserie de l’Europe: brasseriedeleurope.fr
Cost
Free entry with guided tours available by reservation.
Place Kléber
Description
Place Kléber is the largest square in Strasbourg and a popular gathering place. Surrounded by shops, cafes, and historical buildings, this lively square is ideal for people-watching and shopping. During the holiday season, it hosts one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe.
Historical Significance of Place Kléber
Named after General Jean-Baptiste Kléber, this square holds historical significance as a center of commerce and public gatherings.
Location of Place Kléber
Located in the city center, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Homme de Fer station).
Nearby Eateries
- Brasserie de l’Aubette: aubette.fr
- Le Bistrot Moderne: bistrotmoderne.fr
Cost
Free to explore.
Palais Rohan
Description
Palais Rohan is a grand 18th-century palace with beautiful architecture, housing three museums: the Decorative Arts Museum, the Fine Arts Museum, and the Archaeological Museum. Each museum showcases different parts of Strasbourg’s rich history and culture.
Historical Significance of Palais Rohan
Originally a residence for bishops, Palais Rohan reflects the grandeur of Strasbourg’s history and art. It is one of the city’s key cultural attractions.
Location of Palais Rohan
2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
A short walk from Strasbourg Cathedral, accessible by tram (Langstross Grand’Rue station).
Nearby Eateries
- Le Tire-Bouchon: letirebouchon.fr
- Gurtlerhoft: gurtlerhoft.fr
Cost
Entrance fee is approximately €6 for each museum, with discounts available.
Barrage Vauban
Description
Barrage Vauban is a unique 17th-century dam with a panoramic terrace offering fantastic views of Petite France and the surrounding city. Inside, visitors can walk through galleries lined with statues and admire the architectural design of this defensive structure.
Historical Significance of Barrage Vauban
Built in the late 1600s, Barrage Vauban was designed as a flood control and defense system, demonstrating Strasbourg’s military history.
Location of Barrage Vauban
Ponts Couverts, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Porte de l’Hôpital station).
Nearby Eateries
- Brasserie Les Haras: les-haras.com
- L’Alsace à Table: alsaceatable.fr
Cost
Free to enter.
Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Description
This museum houses an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century artworks, including pieces by Picasso and Kandinsky. The spacious galleries and contemporary architecture make it a great destination for art lovers.
Historical Significance of Strasbourg Museum
Opened in 1998, this museum enhances Strasbourg’s cultural scene with its vast collection of modern art, highlighting both local and international artists.
Location of Strasbourg Museum
1 Place Hans-Jean-Arp, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Porte de l’Hôpital station).
Nearby Eateries
- Le Botaniste: restaurantlebotaniste.fr
- L’Epicerie: lepicerie-strasbourg.com
Cost
Entrance fee around €7.
Orangerie Park
Description
Orangerie Park is Strasbourg’s largest park, offering lovely walking paths, flower gardens, a lake, and a mini-zoo. It’s ideal for a relaxed day out with family or friends and a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Historical Significance of Orangerie Park
The park dates back to the 17th century and was landscaped to celebrate Empress Josephine’s visit to Strasbourg.
Location of Orangerie Park
Avenue de l’Europe, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Parlement Européen station) or bus.
Nearby Eateries
- Buerehiesel: buerehiesel.com
- Chez Yvonne: chez-yvonne.fr
Cost
Free to enter.
St. Thomas Church
Description
St. Thomas Church is known for its distinctive Gothic architecture and beautiful pipe organ, crafted by the famous organ builder Silbermann. It has a peaceful atmosphere and is an excellent place to admire art and history.
Historical Significance of St. Thomas Church
Built in the 12th century, St. Thomas Church played an important role in the Protestant Reformation in Strasbourg.
Location of St. Thomas Church
11 Rue Martin Luther, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Accessible by tram (Porte de l’Hôpital station).
Nearby Eateries
- L’Ancienne Douane: anciennedouane.com
- Le Tire-Bouchon: letirebouchon.fr
Cost
Free to enter.
Kammerzell House
Description
Kammerzell House is one of Strasbourg’s most famous medieval buildings, featuring stunning wooden carvings and detailed half-timbered architecture. The interior is equally charming, and visitors can enjoy a traditional Alsatian meal at the restaurant inside.
Historical Significance of Kammerzell House
Built in 1427, this historic house is a remarkable example of Alsatian architecture and has served various purposes over the centuries.
Location of Kammerzell House
16 Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg, France
Traveling
Located near Strasbourg Cathedral, accessible by tram (Langstross Grand’Rue station).
Nearby Eateries
- Maison Kammerzell: maison-kammerzell.com
- Chez Tante Liesel: chez-tante-liesel.fr
Cost
Free to view from outside, dining costs vary.
