Top 11 Things to Do in Strasbourg, France: Travel Guide to Alsace’s Fairytale City

Strasbourg is tucked away in the Alsace region of France, right by the German border, this city is where French elegance meets German coziness. Both combined together, bring together a fairytale town that looks like it leapt out of the pages of a storybook.

You’ll find timber-framed houses with flower boxes spilling over, canals that reflect medieval bridges, and food that blends the best of two culinary worlds. Strasbourg is also home to the European Parliament and is a UNESCO World Heritage listed old town.

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If you’re planning a trip to France and want to go beyond Paris, Strasbourg should absolutely be on your list. Just 1 hour and 45 minutes away by high-speed train, it’s perfect for a day trip or a longer getaway.

Why Visit Strasbourg?

Strasbourg is a city with many layers. On one side, it has a fascinating political importance as the seat of the European Parliament. On the other, it has winding streets and canals that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time and this was the main reason I wanted to visit. It’s a place where history, culture, and everyday life merge seamlessly.

The beauty of Strasbourg lies in its variety. You can spend the morning marvelling at the Gothic masterpiece of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, have a leisurely tarte flambée lunch along a canal, then hop on a boat tour in the afternoon to see the city from another angle. In the evening, you might find yourself sipping Alsatian wine in a buzzing square surrounded by fairytale like town.

Tip: Strasbourg is especially famous in winter when it becomes the “Capital of Christmas” with one of the oldest and most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe. If you’re visiting in December, book your accommodation early!

How to Get There

Getting to Strasbourg is straightforward, thanks to its central location in Europe.

By Train: The high-speed from Paris Gare de l’Est takes less than 2 hours, making it an easy weekend trip. From Frankfurt or Basel, you can also hop on a direct train in about 2–3 hours.
By Plane: Strasbourg has its own international airport (SXB), but you’ll often find cheaper or more frequent flights into EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg or Frankfurt, both well connected by train.
By Car: If you’re road-tripping through France or Germany, Strasbourg is a great stopover. The drive from Stuttgart is under 2 hours, and from Luxembourg it’s about 2.5 hours.

Tip: If you arrive by train, the Strasbourg train station (Gare de Strasbourg-Ville) is only a 10-minute walk from the city centre, so you can dive right into sightseeing and this is exactly what I did, I took a train into Strasbourg from Paris, France.

My Experience in Strasbourg

My first impression of Strasbourg was pure awe. As soon as I set foot in La Petite France, I felt like I was in a real-life Disney village. The cobblestone streets, flower-adorned balconies, and the sound of water flowing through the canals, it was magical.

One of my favourite moments was standing on Pont Saint-Martin, looking at the timbered houses reflecting in the water. It was like stepping into a postcard. I also loved wandering off the main streets into quieter squares like Place du Marché Gayot, where locals gathered at restaurants for lunch.

Food was another highlight. I devoured my first tarte flambée at a little spot called Elsass Food by Moritz, simple, crispy, and delicious. Later, I treated myself to a baguette from L’Atelier 116 and the most indulgent éclairs from Donatien Maître Eclair. Honestly, Strasbourg is one of those cities where eating becomes as memorable as sightseeing.

Best Time to Visit

Strasbourg is beautiful year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons:

Spring (April–June): Flowers bloom across the city, the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller.
Summer (July–August): Expect festivals, late sunsets, and lots of energy. But it can get crowded and pricier.
Autumn (September–October): A quieter time with stunning fall colours, especially in parks and along the river. It’s also wine harvest season in Alsace!
Winter (late November–December): The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its world-famous Christmas markets.

Tip: If your heart is set on Christmas magic, go in December. But if you prefer a calmer visit with great weather, aim for late spring or early autumn. I visited towards late August and the weather was warm and the sun was shining!

Top 11 Things to Do in Strasbourg

1. Explore La Petite France

La Petite France is hands-down the most charming neighbourhood in Strasbourg. Once home to tanners, millers, and fishermen, this quarter is now the city’s most photographed area, and it’s easy to see why. Imagine narrow cobbled streets, half-timbered houses with brightly painted shutters, and canals winding between old stone bridges.

You’ll wander aimlessly and still stumble upon something beautiful. Every corner feels like it belongs in a fairytale.

Tip: Go early in the morning for fewer crowds and magical light reflecting off the canals. Sunset is another perfect time to soak in the views.

2. Stroll through Square Louise-Weiss

This small square is named after Louise Weiss, a French author and politician. Tucked in La Petite France, it’s a peaceful pocket surrounded by picturesque houses and water views. While it’s less busy than the main streets, it offers a perfect spot to rest, snap photos, or just enjoy the ambiance.

Tip: Bring a takeaway pastry or coffee here in the morning, it’s a quieter alternative to sitting in a café.

3. Walk along Pont Saint-Martin

Pont Saint-Martin is the postcard view of Strasbourg. Standing on this bridge, you’ll see timbered houses leaning over the canals, flower boxes spilling with colour, and boats drifting underneath. You’ll want to stand there and take a moment to take it all in

Tip: Head here in the late afternoon when the light is golden. It’s also a wonderful spot to capture a picture.

4. Wander Strasbourg’s Fairytale Corners

Strasbourg’s charm doesn’t stop at La Petite France, you’ll find little gems sprinkled all over the old town:

Place des Tripiers – A lively town square with traditional Alsatian vibes.
Pont du Corbeau – A medieval bridge with fascinating history; it once marked the entrance to the city.
Rue du Maroquin – A street full of colourful half-timbered houses and little cafés.
Place du Château – Located next to the cathedral, it’s a central hub and a great spot to orient yourself.
Place du Marché Gayot – A tucked-away square surrounded by restaurants, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.

Tip: These areas are best explored slowly. Don’t be afraid to wander down side streets, you’ll often find fewer crowds and the prettiest corners.

5. Shop and Snack along Grand Rue

Grand Rue is Strasbourg’s bustling shopping street. Here you’ll find a mix of chain stores, independent shops, and delicious food stops. It’s where modern life and traditional Alsace meet.

Some highlights:

Carpe Diem – A boutique with affordable, charming jewellery. Perfect for souvenirs. I bought two of the cutest bracelets from here for just under €30.
L’Atelier 116 – Famous for their crusty baguettes which is what I came for and enjoyed it! You’ll likely see a queue here and it’s worth the wait.
Donatien Maître Éclair – Not your average bakery. Their éclairs come in savoury versions (yes, really!) and their macarons are a must-try. I’m obsessed with the Salmon eclaire

Tip: Visit in the late morning, grab a baguette, and munch on it as you continue exploring the old town.

6. Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg

This cathedral is the soul of Strasbourg. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, it’s one of the greatest Gothic masterpieces in Europe. The spire towers at 142 meters, making it once the tallest building in the world.

Step inside to see breathtaking stained-glass windows and the famous astronomical clock, a Renaissance marvel that puts on a show daily at 12:30 PM.

Tip: If you can, climb to the viewing platform. The panoramic views of Strasbourg’s rooftops and even the Black Forest on clear days are worth the climb.

7. See Strasbourg by Boat Tour

A boat ride through Strasbourg’s canals is one of the most relaxing ways to see the city. The tours usually circle around La Petite France, glide past medieval bridges, and take you towards the European Quarter where modern glass buildings contrast with the historic old town.

Tip: Go for an evening tour when the city lights start to twinkle, it’s a whole new perspective.

8. Visit Palais Rohan

Once a grand bishop’s residence, Palais Rohan is now home to three museums: Fine Arts, Decorative Arts, and Archaeology. Even if you don’t go inside, the palace itself is beautiful to admire from Place du Château.

Inside, you’ll find ornate rooms, historic artefacts, and impressive art collections. It’s a great way to balance the fairytale streets with some history and culture.

Address: 2 Pl. du Château, 67000 Strasbourg
Opening hours: Mon, Wed–Fri (10AM–1PM & 2PM–6PM); Sat–Sun (10AM–6PM); closed Tuesdays
Prices: From €7.50; one-day pass €16; free on the first Sunday of each month and for under 18s

Tip: If you’re short on time, at least walk by for photos, the palace looks gorgeous against the cathedral backdrop.

9. Try a Local Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche)

This Alsatian specialty is a must. Imagine a super-thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon (traditional version, there are different type of toppings too), it’s simple but so satisfying. I tried mine at Elsass Food by Moritz, which was both affordable and tasty.

Tip: Order one to share if you plan to sample more local dishes. Portions are usually generous!

10. Eat a Baguette from L’Atelier 116

If you want to experience the true joy of French bread, this bakery is the place. Their baguettes are fresh, crusty on the outside, and soft inside, the kind that makes you understand why French bakeries are legendary.

Tip: Buy one in the morning and carry it with you while exploring. Pair it with local cheese from a market for an impromptu picnic.

11. Indulge at Donatien Maître Éclair

This is not your average pastry shop. Donatien creates savoury éclairs, think flavours like smoked salmon or pesto tomato, alongside creative sweet versions. Their macarons are also beautifully delicate and come in unique flavours that even includes salmon and garlic and herb.

Tip: If you’re visiting during the Christmas season, they often have limited-edition festive flavours, worth trying!

JULIXEATS - STRASBOURG - FRANCE Donatien Maître

Travel Tips

Wear comfy shoes: The city is walkable but cobblestones can be tough on your feet.
Get a Strasbourg Pass: Saves money on museums, attractions, and even includes a boat tour.
Stay central: Booking accommodation in the old town means you can walk everywhere. I stayed at BOMA Easy Living Hotel, right in the city centre, and it made exploring so convenient (10 minutes walk from the train station).

Try local wines: Alsace is famous for its Riesling and Gewürztraminer, don’t miss a glass.
Base for day trips: Colmar is just 30 minutes by train, this fairy-tale town with colourful half-timbered houses and canals is a must.
Bring cash: Many smaller bakeries, cafés, and market stalls still prefer cash over cards. When I visited, majority of the places I visited accepted card but it’s always good to have cash just in case.

Highlights

Fairytale canals of La Petite France
Gothic beauty of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame
Sampling tarte flambée and Alsatian pastries
Boat rides offering fresh views of the city
Strasbourg’s magical Christmas markets (if you visit in December)

Final Thoughts

Strasbourg is a city that has it all, history, beauty, food, and that little bit of magic that makes travel unforgettable. Whether you’re gazing at Gothic spires, nibbling on macarons, or just sitting by the canals watching life go by, Strasbourg has a way of making you feel like you’ve discovered something truly special.

If you’re looking for a city that combines fairytale charm with rich culture and mouthwatering food, Strasbourg is waiting to welcome you. I hope you enjoy exploring it as much as I did.