Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located in the Alsace region in eastern France, right on the border with Germany (its Tram line D even crosses the border!). It’s a beautiful city with a blend of both French and German cultures. The architecture is very different from that of classic French cities; it more closely resembles German and other Central European cities. It’s even home to the plenary sessions for the European Parliament and thus has lots of European government buildings.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Strasbourg and it’s probably one of my favorite cities in France; Here’s my guide for what to do here!

The Christmas Markets

Among French people, Strasbourg is best known for its Christmas market and holiday decorations. If you’re going to be in France in December, a trip to the Strasbourg Christmas market is well worth your time. The city is spectacularly decorated during the holiday season and the markets are fantastic as well. The main Christmas market is located on Place Kléber, along with the enormous tree, but stands selling food, Christmas decorations, and crafts can be found all over the historic city center. While you’re there, don’t forget to get a glass of vin chaud (hot wine), a bretzel (French for soft pretzel), and a handful of marrons chauds (roasted chestnuts).

Tourist Attractions to Visit

1. Strasbourg’s cathedral is considered to be one of the most beautiful in France and it definitely does not disappoint. It is also unique because it is one of the few cathedrals of its era to have only one tower, not two. The interior is ornate and even has an astrological clock inside. You can also climb to the top of the cathedral for a few euros, which is well worth it: you get an amazing 360° view of the city. Having been in some cathedral towers which really provoke my fear of heights, climbing the stairs in this cathedral is fairly comfortable.
2. Musée alsacien: This museum was a great intro into the history of the region as well as some of the traditional architecture and customs. It’s located in the center of town, in a traditional Alsatian house.
3. Musée de la Ville de Strasbourg: This museum was great for learning about the long and eventful history of Strasbourg. They have a ton of artifacts on display and when I was there, offered free guides on specific periods in time or themes. Definitely worth a visit!
4. Les Ponts Couverts: these covered bridges are an interesting part of Strasbourg's history and offer a great panoramic view of the city from the roof.
   

Places and Things to Eat

1. For some of the best bretzels in town, I recommend the boulangerie La Maison du Kougelhopf. As the name suggests, they also offer a traditional Alsatian cake called kougelhopfs. You should definitely pick up one or two while you’re there, they have ones with chocolate chips and ones with nuts and dried fruits. 11 Rue du Dôme, 67000 Strasbourg.
2. To get drinks, I recommend the bar Le Raven Café. It has a great ambiance, with a beautiful outdoor terrace in summer, and is located in the historic city center. It’s also right next to the river that runs through Strasbourg, L’Ill. 5 Pl. du Corbeau, 67000 Strasbourg.
3. Another fun bar in the center of Strasbourg is Le Douanier. It has great cocktails and fun decor. 5 Rue de la Douane, 67000 Strasbourg.
4. The Alsatian specialties are choucroute (Sauerkraut) and tartes flambées. Definitely be sure to try some while you’re there! For tartes flambées, I recommend the restaurant Le Meteor. 10 Rue du 22 Novembre, 67000 Strasbourg.
   

Free Public Toilets

1. Place Kléber
2. Inside le Pont Couvert