Details for Strasbourg
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From the earliest centuries AD, Strasbourg has always been considered an important crossroads of Europe. In the fifth century, Franks already gave it the name of Strateburgum, "the road's fortified place." So, it’s not by chance that the European parliament – a symbol of the town's cosmopolitan spirit – was built here, very close to the Rhine and the German border. The special atmosphere is also discernible in the architecture of the houses and churches, and is audible in the Alsatian dialect, which is a mixture of French and German. The historical centre, surrounded by the charming river Ill, is the real marvel of Strasbourg. It comprises the "Petite France," "la place Kléber" and the cathedral area, which are all perfect places for strolling, improving one’s mind, shopping, relaxing outside cafés or even having parties. And, above all, it's heaven for sweet wines, beers and haute-cuisine lovers.
City: 290,576 Metropolitan area: 853,110
1 Euro = 100 cents
Ambulance 15
Police 17
Fire 18
European emergency number 112
SOS doctors Tel: +33 3 88757575
Shops: Mon-Sat 10am-1pm and 2pm-7pm Supermarkets: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm. Reduced hours or closed Sundays.
The best time to visit Strasbourg is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. The city is also famous for its Christmas markets, so December is a popular time for those interested in festive activities.
Strasbourg is renowned for its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, and the picturesque La Petite France district with its half-timbered houses. The European Parliament is also a significant site, and the city's many museums, such as the Alsatian Museum, offer insights into local history and culture.
Strasbourg has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses, which makes it easy to navigate the city. The city is also very bike-friendly, with numerous cycling paths, and the compact city center is perfect for exploring on foot.
In Strasbourg, try traditional Alsatian dishes like choucroute garnie, a hearty dish of sauerkraut and meats, and tarte flambée, a thin crust topped with cream, onions, and bacon. Don't miss tasting the local wines, especially the Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
A stay of two to three days is ideal to explore Strasbourg's main attractions, enjoy its culinary delights, and take in the charming atmosphere of its historic neighborhoods. This allows time for leisurely strolls and perhaps a boat tour on the Ill River.
Popular day trips from Strasbourg include visiting the charming villages along the Alsace Wine Route, such as Riquewihr and Colmar, or exploring the nearby Vosges Mountains for hiking and nature activities. The German city of Baden-Baden is also accessible for a quick cross-border excursion.
The best area to stay in Strasbourg is the city center, particularly around the Grande Île, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area offers easy access to major attractions, restaurants, and shops, and provides a picturesque setting with its historic architecture and canals.
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