Frolic in France’s fairytale city: Things to do in Strasbourg

Wondering what Strasbourg is famous for? Steeped in 2000 years of history, the capital city of the Grand Est region, formerly Alsace, sits as a cultural bridge blending Franco-Germanic cuisine and language, all tucked away in the northeastern corner of France. If active pursuits, intriguing history and good food are what you’re looking for, look no further than soul-stirring Strasbourg, one of the country's most iconic destinations. Young and dynamic, as the official seat of the European Parliament the city is a hotbed of cultural activities, so get your suitcase ready and let us guide you on some of the best things to do in Strasbourg.

As one of Strasbourg’s biggest tourist attractions and most photogenic areas, the 16th-17th century UNESCO World Heritage Site is paved with cobbled stones, canals and half-timbered houses.

While it’s easy to spend all day taking pictures of La Petite-France’s beauty, there’s an activity for everyone at the Musée Historique de Strasbourg, La Popartiserie art gallery and the Printemps shopping centre.

Within the Orangerie Quarter covering just under 30 hectares, the Parc de l’Orangerie, whose name comes from the 140 orange trees that were planted here during the French Revolution, serves as a perfect getaway amidst nature. Escape on the large boating lake for a romantic picnic, or connect with wildlife at the stork reintroduction centre, mini-zoo and farm, which promise hours of fun for children and adults alike.

For those who love history and architecture, you’ll be thrilled to know that the Strasbourg Cathedral is highly acknowledged for its heavy and authentic Gothic artistry and that those responsible for its tourism oversee the neighbouring museum to cast light on its unbelievable past. Going all the way up the north tower is also a breathtaking experience, and not just because there are so many steps to climb! It’s here that the building’s impressionable medieval exquisiteness can be fully appreciated as you’re surrounded by its sandstone casing looking across the city and even onto sights of Germany's Black Forest on a clear day.

At the Musée Alsacien, tourists will learn about local everyday practices, traditional lifestyle choices and cultural artwork that define the city. What’s more, hands-on workshops allow visitors to help rebuild traditional homes and gain an appreciation of not only the architecture but also the expression of Franco-German fusion in the area.

You don’t have to be a politics whiz to get the most from a visit to Strasbourg’s European Parliament. As one of the most powerful buildings in the world and an institute that has inspired the appreciation of cultures and faiths across Europe, it’s an unmissable spot.

The Hemicycle (that seats all Members and is still used for important EP debates), the parlamentarium Simone Veil (equipped with a 360° cinema and an optional role-play game) and group run-throughs of the inner workings of the EP are all part of what makes this building a key part of the Strasbourg experience!

You’ll find fusion foods everywhere on a visit to Strasbourg. German ingredients sprinkle French bases in mains such as sauerkraut, sausages and potatoes, coming together to create choucroute. 

The local coq au riesling and tarte flambée are also ones to order for a perfect combination of the two countries — cheeses, tender chicken, bread, herbs and a great deal of onion appear on most menus to ignite all the senses 

If you want to dig a little deeper, discover other romantic things to do in Strasbourg to make the most of your trip to the city.