Strasbourg is one of Europe’s most culturally diverse cities. It’s home to some of France’s oldest educational and religious institutions, including the University of Strasbourg and the Jesuit Seminary. The city is a popular stopover for travelers heading to nearby Germany. And, with its historic architecture and lively nightlife, it has plenty of things to offer visitors whether they’re hanging out or planning an extended stay. Here’s what you need to know about exploring this captivating city in northern France.
The Best Views of Strasbourg
It’s not hard to find incredible views of Strasbourg; one look at the city’s stunning landscapes and architecture and you’ll understand why it’s called “the city of a thousand spires.” From the city’s tallest buildings to its impressive bridges, such as the Pont de l’Europe, and its picturesque river, the Rhine, Strasbourg’s architecture reflects the city’s location between France, Germany, and Switzerland. To get the best views, head to the top of the Petit Pont and the Pont de l’Europe. During the summer months, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of the Palais des Congrès. And if you’re visiting before spring arrives, you can also get a nice view of the city from the top of the Grande Île.
Visit the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
The Gothic Cathédrale de Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, located in the city’s oldest quarter, has been a major draw for centuries. The architecture of this impressive church is one of the city’s most recognizable symbols. You can visit this famous landmark both inside and outside, but the interior is by far the most impressive of the two options. Inside, the cathedral is over 500 years old but has been restored several times since then, most recently in the early 20th century. The cathedral’s stained-glass windows, statues, furniture, and other decorative items date back to the 1400s. This cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee as a site of “outstanding universal value.” In addition to its UNESCO status, the cathedral is also a UNESCO World Culture Festival venue and hosts arts, music, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Take a Walking Tour in the Old Town
For an easy way to get to know the city’s medieval architecture, consider taking a walking tour in the city’s oldest quarter, the Place des Vieux-Augustins. In this area, known as the “new town,” the city’s oldest building dates back to the 12th century. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to many restaurants, shops, and public squares, making it a lively place to explore. The Vieux-Augustins is also home to the city’s oldest church, the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, which dates to the late 11th century. To see the best of the Vieux-Augustins, consider taking one of the many walking tours available. These tours take visitors through the city’s medieval architecture and provide insight into the city’s history.
Get to Know Germany Through Contemporary Art
Germany’s influence on culture in France is evident in the city’s art scene. While visiting Strasbourg, consider exploring one of the city’s many museums and galleries, which feature work by some of the nation’s most renowned artists. For contemporary art, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg is a great place to start. This modern art museum is located in one of the city’s oldest buildings, dating back to the 14th century. Other notable museums in the city include the Musée d’Art Contemporain, which features work by many of the region’s most prominent artists, and the Musée de la Civilisation, which offers an overview of the city’s history through its architecture, artifacts, and artwork.
Explore the City’s Medieval Landmarks
When you visit the city’s medieval landmarks, such as its historic bridges, fortifications, and towers, you can get a better idea of how important the city’s history is. These landmarks—such as the Pont de l’Europe and the Pont de l’Alma—are not just architectural but also symbolize the city’s importance as a trading center between France, Germany, and Switzerland. The Pont de l’Europe, located near the train station, is the city’s oldest bridge and has been a major trade route since the Roman Empire. It’s also one of the city’s most heavily trafficked bridges, so be careful while crossing. The Pont de l’Alma, located near the city’s pedestrian market, is the city’s second-oldest bridge. The structure is named for the city’s Alleman dialect, which means “march of the people.”
Get Some Good, Fresh Fries
As a nod to its Germanic history and geography, Strasbourg also serves up some delicious fries. These French fries, served in a paper cone, are known as pommes sautées, which means “jump-sprung potatoes.” The best place to get these delicious fries is at the Port du Rhin, a riverside market in the historic city center.
Final Words: Is It Worth a Stay?
Strasbourg is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities, and it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s easy to find great food, art, architecture, and more, and the city has plenty of things to do, from exploring the architecture and landscapes to visiting the Gothic Cathédrale de Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul. If you visit during the summer months, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of the Palais des Congrès. With so many great attractions and things to do, it’s easy to see why this is one of Europe’s most popular cities.
