All about Strasbourg
When to visit
Strasbourg is bursting with festive magic over the Christmas season when the city hosts France’s largest and most famous Christmas Market. Expect huge crowds and high accommodation prices throughout November and December, especially on weekends in the run-up to the big day. Summer (July-August) can be just as busy, so opt for a late spring or early fall trip instead, when you’ll be able to enjoy crowd-free sightseeing and still make the most of the warm weather.
Getting around
Strasbourg’s Grande Ile, the central island encircled by the River Ill, is entirely pedestrianized, so the best way to explore is on foot or by bike. To venture further, hop on the tram, which will take you from the Grand Ile to the European Quarter and beyond, or rent a bike and discover the 370-mile (600-kilometer) network of bike trails in and around the city center.
Traveler tips
Do as the locals do, and pick up some picnic supplies from the open-air market on Place Broglie (open Wednesday and Friday mornings) and head to the Parc de l’Orangerie. Among many things to do, the vast park has nature trails, a boating lake, and plenty of picnic spots. It’s also a popular place to view wild storks, the symbol of the Alsace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I spend a day in Strasbourg?
Strasbourg’s compact center makes it easy to explore in one day. A walking tour of the Grand Île will cover all the top attractions—stroll the cobbled lanes of the La Petite France quarter, admire the Covered Bridges and Strasbourg Cathedral, then take a boat cruise along the canals.
What is the city of Strasbourg famous for?
Strasbourg is famous for hosting France’s largest and most popular Christmas Market, which draws around 2 million holiday visitors. The Alsace capital is also renowned for the picturesque architecture of its UNESCO-listed Grande Île, its unique Alsatian cuisine and wines, and as the official seat of the European Parliament.
Why do people visit Strasbourg?
Strasbourg is renowned for its annual Christmas market, which draws more than 2 million visitors to the city. Travelers also come to Strasbourg to stroll its UNESCO-listed Grand Île (Big Island), admire its half-timbered buildings and magnificent cathedral, and enjoy wine tasting in the Alsace wine region.
What do people in Strasbourg eat?
Strasbourg is known for its Alsatian cuisine, which is infused with French and German flavors. Regional specialties include choucroute (sauerkraut with sausage), flammekueche (pizza-like flatbread), baeckeoffe (meat casserole), and coq au riesling (the Alsace-version of French dish coq au vin). Pair it with an Alsace white wine or local beer.
Is Strasbourg touristy?
Yes, Strasbourg is ranked the seventh most visited city in France for tourists, especially over the holidays. Top sights like Strasbourg Cathedral and La Petite France can get busy, but it’s easy to escape the crowds outside the Grande Ile.
Do they speak German in Strasbourg?
Yes, you will find many people speak German in Strasbourg. The official language in Strasbourg is French, but the city’s close proximity to the German border and the multicultural heritage of the Alsace region mean that many languages are spoken. Expect to hear French, English, German, and even Swiss French.