Dubbed as Europe’s capital, Strasbourg has a commendable list of laurels to its public profile. The city is also the capital of Alsace and the Bas-Rhin department. To answer the question if Strasbourg is worth visiting at all, being one of the most visited towns by foreign tourists and the sixth most inhabited city in the country pretty much sums up its relevance.

The city brilliantly delivers a unique and very special experience from its architecture and culture that is different from what the rest of France has. 

Here Is Why Strasbourg is Worth Visiting:

The Beautiful Old Town 

Take the steps of the Gothic Cathedral Notre-Dame de Strasbourg to have an incredible view of the city. You can also meander through the strait streets and appreciate the 1500s and 1600s homes and see the flowing canals that course towards the adorable La Petite France island.

Strasbourg’s Place in History 

The city is important for the country and the continent. Strasbourg is called the capital of Europe because it is the seat of important EU institutions, including the parliament. Lending credence to its cultural significance also, Marseillaise, the French national anthem, was born in the city. In 1792, it was written and originally titled “Chant de Guerre pour l’Armee du Rhin (War Song for the Rhine Army).

Marseillaise was adopted by the French National Connection in 1795 as a revolutionary song. The name owes its origin to volunteers from Marseille who marched on Paris in support of the Revolution.

Strasbourg’s Culture

Strasbourg is phenomenally dynamic and vibrant, with its many operas, museums, festivals, and events. The city has become a genuine capital of culture, and yet it has retained its abundant and colorful heritage. When you visit the center, do not miss the cathedral, the island of Petite France, the Covered Bridge, and the house Kammerzell. Search for the popular Grande Ile as it is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a step into the Musée Alsacien for history buffs who want to know more about the area.

The City’s Christmas Market

The city has the most traditional, oldest, and most popular Christmas market. Situated in Place Broglie, the ‘Christkinderlsmärik’ market has been in existence since 1570. Today, the market is known around the world as a topic Christmas market where one can get nearly anything about the yuletide.

Besides, there is Alsace’s amazing small producers and growers market located in Place des Meunier. The Place d’Austerlitz is where the Alsatian Christmas specialties market is located. During the festive periods, the atmosphere of these places is a delight. For the young ones, there is the Place Saint Thomas where they can enjoy the Children’s World.

The Festive Atmosphere of Christmas in Strasbourg

The markets are a thing, and so are the festivities. The entire city is festooned and adorned with lights, which make a massive festive atmosphere. There are also specialties peculiar to the area with great food to go and soft wine to savor. The whole of Strasbourg appears to smell of Christmas spices and the decorations (hand-made gifts, the local crafts, sweets, chia, and candles). The main feature of the Christmas spirit is the Christmas tree. It might be the prettiest and biggest one you have ever seen.

A Day Tour of Cathedral of Notre Dame 

The Gothic-style cathedral is striking, especially at sunset, and its quaint form is what you will appreciate. The construction commenced in 1015 but was completed in 1439. You will come to realize why it took 400 years to build.

Its tower is 143 m high and was even the highest at a point in time. The cathedral also has a massive clock that is charming for its automation that puts on a great show daily at exactly 12:30 pm. Ensure you do not miss it.

>>Also Read: Must-See Cathedrals In France

The City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

This is another reason Strasbourg is worth visiting. In fact, it is the only city in the entire country where the whole city is recognized as a World Heritage Site. There are many UNESCO Sites to visit, and you could document your adventures on camera to relive them.

The Bike Paths 

Riding bikes on vacation in a foreign city might just the highlight of your France trip. Strasbourg is a bike-friendly city with many paths for both expert and amateur riders. The bike paths are about 500 km more than any other French city.

As you will see, bikes are common sights in the city, and they are a great option if you are sight-seeing outside the center. Bikes are also affordable and environmentally friendly. On bikes, you can take in the fantastic views while having tasty pastries. Many hotels rent out bikes at reasonable rates. In addition to riding around the city center, cycle through the Parc de l’Orangerie is great amusement and has a stunning environment.

Parc de l‘Orangerie  

Even though riding on a bike across the city center is not part of your plan, Parc de l’Orangerie is a place to visit. This Place is one of the city’s gems. It is situated close to the Council of Europe, in the area referred to as the Orangerie Quarter. Covering 26 hectares, its surface spreads and is founded by Andre Le Notre in 1801.

Strasbourg’s La Petite France 

This is one of the most outstanding and beautiful parts of the city. Located on the Grande Ile, an island situated on the Ill River in the city center, the district is well known for its many historic buildings and canals, making up what some might refer to as a small Venice.

 In France, however, it is given the name “Small France” because there is medical care to treat ailments like syphilis. Aside from the covered bridges, the region is full of nice half-timbered buildings and houses that were made entirely with sandstone. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

See The Bridges 

Strasbourg is also worth visiting because there is a host of amazing bridges to discover. There are more than 20 bridges, and some of them are genuinely beautiful. Those close to la Petite France are picturesque and adorable, while other parts of Strasbourg have larger bridges. Built-in the 1600s, the Barrage Vauban has brilliant views of some of the city’s covered bridges, erected in the Middle Ages and referred to as Ponts Couverts locally. Those who like modern architecture can visit the Passerelle, which was opened in 2004 and is made up of fine steel curves.

The Food 

Strasbourg boasts of mixed German and French cultures that showcase the city’s influences. You should indulge the Choucroute Garnie, which is the most popular local specialty made up of mashed potatoes and sauerkraut with sausages. The coq au Riesling is another local dish of German root that is served with spaetzle. The food is great and might have you mistakenly bite your tongue if not careful.

Is Strasbourg Worth Visiting? – Summary

A trip to Strasbourg is well worth it! It is a charming city with interesting tours to get you acquainted with the historical Place. If you prefer to see the city from a boat and not via the streets, some cruises offer that. And whether it is a short or long visit you are planning, Strasbourg will serve the precise measure of goodness to make your trip worthwhile.