Strasbourg

The capital of Grand Est and seat of the European Parliament, Strasbourg is famous for its stunning medieval old town with half-timbered houses and the magnificent Gothic cathedral. The picturesque canals and Alsatian charm make it one of France's most enchanting cities and essential for any visitor to the region.

Things to do

• Strasbourg Cathedral — Marvel at this stunning Gothic masterpiece with its intricate rose window and astronomical clock, one of the finest cathedrals in Europe.
• Petite France — Wander through this charming medieval quarter with picturesque half-timbered houses reflected in the Ill River canals.
• European Parliament — Tour the distinctive modern building where the European Parliament convenes, offering insights into EU governance.
• Musée de l'Œuvre Notre-Dame — Explore this museum housed in a Renaissance palace displaying medieval sculptures and artifacts from the cathedral.
• Canal boat tour — Take a peaceful punt-style boat ride through Strasbourg's scenic waterways to see the old town from a unique perspective.
• Palais Rohan — Visit this magnificent 18th-century palace that now houses three museums covering decorative arts, archaeology, and fine arts.

Food to try

• Choucroute Garnie — This iconic Alsatian dish features fermented sauerkraut served with smoked meats including sausages and pork knuckle.
• Baeckaoffa — A traditional slow-cooked casserole made with layers of potatoes, pork, beef, and lamb, seasoned with white wine and herbs.
• Fleischnacka — Rolled pastry pockets filled with minced meat and onions, representing classic Alsatian comfort food.
• Kugelhopf — A sweet brioche-style cake studded with raisins and almonds, traditionally served at breakfast or with coffee.
• Bretzel — A crispy twisted pretzel snack that is quintessentially Alsatian and sold at street stalls throughout the city.
• Alsatian white wines — Sample local Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, and Sylvaners from the nearby wine route, which pair perfectly with regional cuisine.

Local customs & good to know

• Christmas market tradition — Strasbourg hosts Europe's oldest and most famous Christmas market (since 1570), transforming the old town into a festive wonderland from late November through December.
• Bilingual heritage — The city's German and French influences are visible in architecture, cuisine, and local dialect; locals often switch between French and Alsatian naturally.
• Stork symbolism — White storks are iconic to Strasbourg and Alsace; look for stork nests on rooftops and chimneys, symbols of good fortune and fertility in local culture.
• Leisurely pace — Strasbourg embraces a slower lifestyle compared to Paris; locals appreciate long meals, afternoon coffee breaks, and unhurried exploration of the city.