Is Strasbourg a town that keeps popping up on your Instagram or TikTok feed? Maybe you’ve heard that it was previously a part of Germany, or maybe it was suggested to you as a day trip from Paris. Whatever brought you to do more research on this wonderful town, you’ll be glad you did. If you are visiting France, I highly suggest making this cute, little, medieval town part of your itinerary. You don’t need much more than a day here, maybe two if you want to have more time for leisure or shopping. Strasbourg, France is by far one of the cutest little towns I have been to. This Strasbourg travel guide will help you to map out your itinerary for your trip and give you the details on where to stay, where to eat, what to do and more!
Like I mentioned, it was previously a part of Germany for a time between the late 1800s until the end of World War I when it was re-occupied by the French Army. During World War II, the Germans again controlled the city after it was annexed to them in 1940. Ultimately, the city was once again liberated and controlled by France in 1944. It lies close to the German border, alongside the Rhine River. There are many fascinating facts about Strasbourg. For one, it is the capital of the Alsace region. Adidtionally, did you know that for 227 years, the beautiful cathedral in Strasbourg was the world’s tallest building. It also happens to be one of the continent’s largest medieval quarters. There are many reasons to love Strasbourg, aside from how beautiful the town is.
We stayed at Hotel Gutenberg, right in the heart of Strasbourg. The staff was so polite, everything was clean and modern, and the location was unbeatable! One thing to note was that the rooms itself were very small. For us it was manageable because we only stayed for two nights and never spent much time in the hotel room, but it is something to consider if this is important for you.
We also stayed at Hotel Tandem for one night on another trip. This was very convenient for us, as we had an early train to catch and wanted to stay near the train station. It is still a great location and only a 10-12 minute walk into the heart of the town. The hotel itself was great, and exactly what we were looking for.
I suggest seeing the city by foot! In super small towns like Strasbourg, our favorite way to get around is by walking. Of course, there is also public transportation that is easy to navigate if you so choose. If you plan on staying in the city center, you’ll find that everything is within walking distance.
Petite France (Little France): In my opinion, the most beautiful and picturesque part of the city! Standing at the canals, you’ll have breathtaking panoramic views of the half-timbered homes.
Strasbourg Cathedral: Like I previously mentioned, this cathedral used to be the tallest building in the world at one point! It is in the heart of the city and won’t be missed when wandering through the town.
Visit the wildly popular “Teddy Bear House”: If you’ve come across Strasbourg on Instagram, chances are you have come across the teddy bear house. It is actually a restaurant called le Tire-Bouchon and located at 5 Rue des Tailleurs de Pierre near the cathedral and next to the Le Gruber restaurant. Beautifully decorated with giant teddy bears all over the windows during the holiday season.
The Christmas Market: If you planned your trip for the month of December, you will be lucky enough to experience the Christmas market! This was the reason we originally wanted to visit Strasbourg. It really is the highlight of the town during the holiday season. The streets are beautifully lit at night with Christmas lights and decor.
Wander through Old Town: The great thing about Strasbourg is you don’t need a lot of “things” planned before coming. It is the perfect town to stroll around and enjoy the beautiful streets, cafes, and shops.
La Coccinelle: For more traditional dishes.
Il Felice: This restaurant is probably in the top 5 best pizzas I’ve ever had! Book a reservation in advance, as they book up quickly.
Bagel Corner: If you’re in the mood for some bagels for breakfast!
Oh my Goodness Cafe: For breakfast!
In my opinion, the best time to go is Christmas time! There is something so magical about this little town during the holidays. If Strasbourg can’t get you in the holiday spirit, I don’t know what can! From the Christmas market, to the beautiful lights throughout Old Town, to the festive teddy bear decor. We also spent half a day here during the summer and it was also beautiful. It didn’t seem as busy compared to the Christmas mayhem, but more slow paced and relaxed. It also makes for more enjoyable weather to wander around the town and dining outdoors!
Strasbourg has become a special place to us. Although our time there was short (a quick weekend trip), it was everything we hoped for. We experienced amazing food, lovely locals, beautiful views, and architecture. It was also the first Christmas market in Europe that we managed to visit! If you are planning a trip to France or even Germany, I highly recommend adding this town to your list.
Are you heading anywhere else in France during your trip? If so, be sure to check out my other France travel guides on Paris and the South of France!
If you’re like me and need help keeping all of your travel plans and itinerary organized, be sure to check out my travel journal that I designed for just this reason! It’s how I plan every single trip and keep organized. It has everything you need from a packing list, a page for your accommodation info, travel itinerary, budgeting on your trip, journaling each day and more!
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