Things To Do
in Strasbourg

Strasbourg, France, is a picturesque city renowned for its blend of French and German influences, manifesting in its architecture, culture, and cuisine. The city is home to the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the skyline. Located near the Rhine River, Strasbourg is also known for its charming canals and the historic La Petite France district, filled with half-timbered houses.

As the seat of the European Parliament, it plays a significant role in international politics while maintaining a vibrant local identity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Strasbourg Cathedral, marveling at its intricate façade and the astronomical clock. Afterwards, stroll through the nearby Place de la Cathédrale.

afternoon
:

Head to La Petite France, where you can explore the quaint streets and have lunch at a riverside café. Spend the afternoon visiting the Palais Rohan, home to three museums including the Museum of Fine Arts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Alsatian restaurant, followed by a scenic boat cruise along the canals to see the city illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the European Parliament, taking a guided tour to learn about its significance. Then, visit the nearby Parc de l'Orangerie for a leisurely walk.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, followed by lunch at a nearby bistro. Spend the afternoon at the Jardin des Deux Rives, enjoying the beautiful gardens.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a brasserie and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s nightlife in the Krutenau district.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$2-$5
🍺Beer$5-$8
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Beautiful architecture and scenic canals.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be limited late at night.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Strasbourg

Visit one of these nice places.

Strasbourg Cathedral

Capture stunning photos of this Gothic masterpiece, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light illuminates its intricate details.

La Petite France

This historic district with its charming canals and half-timbered houses offers countless picturesque views, perfect for a leisurely photo stroll.

Palais Rohan

The grand architecture of this palace, along with its surrounding gardens, provides an excellent backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Strasbourg

Strasbourg offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects its rich heritage, blending French and German flavors.

Strasbourg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Choucroute Garnie

A hearty dish of sauerkraut served with various meats, such as sausages and pork, often accompanied by potatoes.

Must-Try!

Tarte Flambée

A thin crust pizza-like dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons, perfect for sharing.

Baeckeoffe

A traditional Alsatian casserole made with marinated meats and potatoes, slow-cooked to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place Gutenberg Market

A vibrant market where you can sample local cheeses, pastries, and street food, especially during the Christmas season.

Climate Guide

Weather

Strasbourg experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and damp, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summers are warm, averaging 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with a slightly wetter climate in late spring and summer. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet shopkeepers and waitstaff with a 'Bonjour' (hello) when entering establishments.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not elbows) during meals and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Punctuality

Being slightly late (5-10 minutes) is generally acceptable, but try to be punctual for formal gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Strasbourg is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, like in any city, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in tourist areas, so keep your belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and hospitals are readily available in the city.

Tipping in Strasbourg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in France; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the city's parks.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract many tourists. Enjoy open-air events, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Fall brings beautiful foliage and a cultural vibe with many festivals. Temperatures start to cool down.

Winter

Strasbourg is famous for its Christmas market, creating a magical atmosphere with festive lights and decorations. Expect cold weather, so dress warmly.

Nightlife Guide

Strasbourg at Night

Strasbourg has a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs catering to various tastes. The Krutenau district is particularly lively, featuring a mix of traditional Alsatian wine bars and modern cocktail lounges. Many venues host live music and events, especially during the warmer months, creating a festive atmosphere. The city also offers late-night eateries where you can grab a bite after a night out.

Hiking in Strasbourg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont Sainte-Odile

A beautiful hiking area located about 30 km from Strasbourg, offering panoramic views and trails through the Vosges mountains.

Vosges Mountains Trails

The Vosges mountains, located to the west of Strasbourg, feature numerous hiking trails varying in difficulty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Strasbourg by plane.

Strasbourg International Airport (SXB)

Located about 10 km from the city center, it offers flights to various European destinations and is well-connected by public transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Strasbourg is highly walkable, with a compact city center where most attractions are within walking distance. The picturesque streets of La Petite France and the area around the cathedral are particularly pedestrian-friendly. Many areas have pedestrian-only zones, making it safe and enjoyable to explore on foot. The city's bike-sharing system also encourages cycling as a convenient alternative to walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Strasbourg hosts a large student population due to its universities, contributing to a youthful and vibrant atmosphere.

European Officials

As the seat of the European Parliament, many officials and diplomats live and work in Strasbourg, influencing its multicultural environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is hugely popular in Strasbourg, with the local team, RC Strasbourg Alsace, having a passionate fan base and playing in Ligue 1.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Strasbourg, supported by extensive bike paths throughout the city and nearby countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Strasbourg experiences moderate traffic, particularly during rush hours. The city has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses that make it easy to navigate. A well-planned network of cycle paths encourages biking, and walking is also a popular mode of transport in the compact city center. Parking can be challenging in busy areas, so utilizing public transport or biking is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Strasbourg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Strasbourg offer vegetarian dishes. Always check for local specialties that can be modified.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in bistros and cafes, but it's advisable to inform the staff of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Strasbourg is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. The main hospitals include Hôpital Civil and Hôpital de Hautepierre, both equipped with emergency services. EU citizens can access healthcare services with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while travelers from outside Europe should ensure they have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide