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Eat. See. Do: Strasbourg, France

strasbourg france
photo by sam henderson

Lights. Camera. Magic.
Welcome to the Capital of Christmas.

There are many Christmas and holiday markets in Europe, but only Strasbourg, France has been crowned ‘Capitale de Noel’.

Positioned on the Franco-German border, Strasbourg is the capital city of the Grand Est region in France, formerly Alsace. Occupied twice by Germany during World War I and II, the city’s culture and architecture is a blend of German and French influences. Strasbourg landed on the world stage as the seat of the European Parliament.

The old town and most of the city’s famous buildings reside on the Grand Île, which is divided and surrounded by the Ill River. Situated within the Grand Île are a few must-see attractions like the Cathedral district, lined with shops and traditional Alsatian restaurants. Not to be missed: Palais Rohan, Place du Château, Kammerzell House, and of course Place Broglie, home of Christkindelsmärik (Christmas Market).

The Capitale de Noel takes this title very seriously and thus offers a full range of sights, sounds, events, exhibits, and so much more. We recommend starting here to plan your trip for next holiday season. However, this charming city merits a visit any time of year. The charm and unique architecture make it an ideal European setting for memories to last a lifetime.

Traveling by train from Paris to Strasbourg was less than 2-hours and the perfect way to arrive. There is an airport, so flying in is an option as well. If you wish to extend your visit beyond Strasbourg, consider adding Mulhouse and Colmar to your itinerary.

Our trip to Strasbourg was the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and took our festive spirit to new heights!

For more on Strasbourg and our other travel adventures, be sure to follow us on INSTAGRAM.

see:

Ponts Couverts Strasbourg France
Ponts Couverts - (covered bridges) OK. They aren't covered anymore... and they haven't been for hundreds of years. However, the name remains and the towers of these once covered bridges welcome you to the Petite France part of town.
Barrage Vauban Strasbourg France
Barrage Vauban - built to defend the city from invaders, this fortified bridge still stands. Take a walk through the interior corridor to see the towers of the covered bridges from a unique angle and learn a little history.
Les Glacières Strasbourg France
Anciennes Glacières - constructed at the end of the 1800s, these buildings were created to make ice and ultimately to generate electricity.
la petite france strasbourg
Petite France - this area of Strasbourg is where most of the tourist action happens. It is charming and filled with shops, museums, galleries, and wonderful restaurants.
Palais Rohan Strasbourg France
Palais des Rohan - Majestic on the outside and opulent on the inside. This former palace is now home to three museums.
Cathédrale Notre Dame - Strasbourg France
Notre Dame Cathedral of Strasbourg - this impressive architectural work towers over the city and is a must-see while in Strasbourg. Built centuries ago, it was the tallest building in the world for over 200 years.

taste:

Flemmekeuche
Flammekueche - Pizza, but not quite. This thin-crust flatbread is most commonly topped with a white sauce, ham, and onion. Have it with a fine Alsatian beer or wine.
Brasserie Haras - Strasbourg, France
Brasserie Haras - This former stable has been transformed into a brasserie and hotel. The interior is stunning and the food is top-notch. Book ahead, or at the very least stop at the bar for a drink and then check out the property.
In Vino Veritas - Strasbourg France
In Vino Veritas - Hands down, this was the best Italian food we had in Strasbourg. It is charming and quaint (small) inside. The service was exceptional and the pasta was made in-house.
typical alsacien meal from Chez LOncle Freddy - Strasbourg, France
Chez L'Oncle Freddy - When in Rome, right? This popular restaurant offers typical Alsatian fare for your full Strasbourg experience. You will NOT leave hungry.
La Cloche à Fromage - Strasbourg, France
La Cloche à Fromage - Just steps from Notre Dame Cathedral, this very popular restaurant offers a variety of cheese from fondue to raclette (hot cheese poured over an assortment of meats and potatoes).

stay:

hotel gutenberg in strasbourg france
Hôtel Gutenberg - This charming hotel in the city center is right in the middle of the action. The classical architecture on the outside is met with wonderfully modern interior spaces.
There are many hotel options in Strasbourg. You will find well-recognized brands as well as small boutique hotels. As we often do, for our last visit we stayed in an AirBNB. It was charming and located right in the heart of le Petite France, putting everything within quick walking distance.
 
HÔTEL GUTENBERG
31 Rue des Serruriers, Strasbourg
HÔTEL LES HARAS
23 rue des Glacières, Strasbourg

take away:

alsacien sausages - strasbourg france
Sausages - You will find many food-centric shops in Strasbourg selling regional specialties. These blueberry sausages were among over a dozen of other varieties offered in this small shop.
artisan cheeses - strasbourg france
Cheese - The cheese from this region is quite famous. Among the more common varieties is Muenster. Stop at one of the many cheese shops and get a sample... and something to go.
wine bottles on display
Wine - Pick up a bottle (or more) of some of the regions best wines. Two very popular varieties are Riesling and Gewürtztraminer.

general information:

STRASBOURG, FRANCE
CURRENCY: euro
EMERGENCY NUMBER: dial 112
TOURIST INFORMATION: visitstrasbourg.fr
WHEN TO GO: For the Christmas market, everything kicks off at the end of November. Book early and plan to spend at least three (3) full days to eat, see, and do it all. We think this charming city is due a visit in spring as well. There are many museums, churches, parks, boutiques, and restaurants to visit. A picnic by the river and cocktails on a terrace sound like the perfect way to usher in the spring season.

LOOKING FOR MORE FRENCH CHARM? PLAN A TRIP SOUTH TO ANNECY.

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