Strasbourg: Where France Meets Germany

Flo MBT
Jul 23
6 min read

Updated: Jul 26

Nestled on the border with Germany, Strasbourg is one of those cities that surprises you — even as French locals. It's charming, walkable, rich in culture, and unlike anywhere else in the country. Think half-timbered houses, cobbled alleys, canals, and that perfect mix of Alsatian character, French elegance, and German influence.

And for us, it’s even more special — Strasbourg is Flo’s hometown. She grew up wandering the streets of La Petite France, riding bikes along the river, and grabbing warm bretzels at the marché. Every corner of the city holds memories — and now, we get to rediscover it together through fresh eyes.

We’ve visited Strasbourg multiple times (of course), and every season brings a new kind of magic — from springtime strolls along the Ill River to sipping hot mulled wine at the legendary Christmas market.

Table of contents

Why You Should Visit Strasbourg
What to See & Do
What to Eat (And Drink)
Where to Eat & Drink in Strasbourg
Best Time to Go
Where to Stay
Getting There
Beyond Strasbourg: Easy Day Trips & Hidden Gems
Why We Love It

Why You Should Visit Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region and home to some seriously impressive architecture, incredible food, and a relaxed pace of life. It's big enough to be interesting, but small enough to feel cozy — ideal for a weekend trip or a cultural stop on a longer French adventure.

What to See & Do

1. Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame)

One of the most stunning Gothic cathedrals in Europe — and taller than you think. Don’t miss the astronomical clock inside and the panoramic view if you climb the tower (totally worth the steps).

2. La Petite France

This historic district is picture-perfect: colorful half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and little footbridges everywhere. It’s touristy, yes, but for good reason — it feels like stepping into a storybook.

3. Boat Tour on the Ill River

A relaxed way to see the city from the water — including the European Parliament, which gives Strasbourg its political importance in the EU.

4. Museums & Culture

From the Alsatian Museum (Musée Alsacien) to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, there's something for everyone. History buffs will love the mix of French and German heritage.

5. Explore the Local Boutiques

Strasbourg is full of small artisan shops — perfect for picking up local pottery, gingerbread, stork-themed souvenirs, or a good bottle of Alsatian wine.

What to Eat (And Drink)

Alsace has a food identity all its own — and Strasbourg is the perfect place to taste it all.

Tarte flambée (flammekueche): Think of it as Alsace’s version of pizza (but NEVER say it out loud)— thin crust, crème fraîche, onions, and lardons.
Choucroute garnie: Sauerkraut served with sausages, pork, and potatoes. Hearty, local, and surprisingly comforting.
Bretzels: Soft pretzels, sometimes with melted cheese, ham, or mustard. Great snack on the go.
Kouglof: A regional cake made with raisins and almonds — often eaten for breakfast or with coffee.
Pain d’épices: Spiced gingerbread that’s especially popular during the holidays.
Alsace wine: White wines reign here — especially Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Many winstubs (local taverns) serve excellent glasses at very fair prices.

🍷 Local tip: Order a “planchette” (charcuterie and cheese board) with your wine — it’s the Alsatian way to spend a lazy evening.

Where to Eat & Drink in Strasbourg

Strasbourg's food and bar scene has evolved a lot — and Flo, who grew up here, admits she doesn’t know every new trendy spot anymore. But some areas are timeless, and still perfect for exploring the best of Alsatian flavors and cozy atmospheres. Here are her favorite neighborhoods to eat and drink like a local, plus a couple of personal recommendations she still swears by.

Around the Cathedral

Food: Classic Alsatian fare with a view. Try Maison Kammerzell — one of the most iconic restaurants in the city, housed in a stunning half-timbered building right next to the cathedral.
Drinks: Enjoy a glass of Alsace wine or a local beer on a sunny terrace at Place de la Cathédrale. It’s always buzzing and beautiful.

Grand Rue

Food: A mix of casual restaurants, bakeries, and cozy lunch spots. Ideal for grabbing something on the go while you stroll.
Drinks: Great for a quick apéro or a casual café stop mid-day.

Krutenau

Food: A lively student neighborhood with a creative food scene. One of Flo’s favorites here is Mama Bubbele — a cute and modern spot that serves only tarte flambée, with one of the most beautiful terraces in Strasbourg.
Drinks: Expect fun, artsy wine bars and laid-back pubs — perfect for evening drinks with a relaxed vibe.

Place Gayot

A quiet little square just behind the cathedral that feels hidden from the crowds. It’s lined with terraces — ideal for lunch, dinner, or a drink under the trees on warm days.

✨ Flo’s tip: Start with apéro in Krutenau, wander to Place Gayot for dinner, and end with a late-night drink near the Cathedral — all on foot.

Best Time to Go

Spring & Summer: Great weather, fewer crowds than Paris, and perfect for walking or biking.
Fall: Grape harvest season! Beautiful autumn colors in the vineyards around the region.
Winter: A must-do! Strasbourg becomes the “Capital of Christmas” with its legendary Marché de Noël — one of the oldest and best Christmas markets in Europe. Magical is an understatement.

Where to Stay

We recommend staying in or near La Petite France or the city center so you can walk everywhere. There are charming boutique hotels, Airbnbs in historic buildings, and even a few cozy guesthouses in Alsatian style.

Getting There

Strasbourg is super easy to reach:

By train: 1h45 from Paris via TGV.
By car: Great if you want to explore the Alsace Wine Route afterward.
By bike: Once you're there, you can rent bikes to explore the city and riverside paths.

Beyond Strasbourg: Easy Day Trips & Hidden Gems

Strasbourg is perfectly placed for short getaways — whether you're into wine tasting, postcard-perfect villages, or a relaxing spa day just across the border.

1. Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins)

This legendary road winds through the region’s sun-soaked vineyards, connecting dozens of wine-producing towns and villages. Rent a car (or join a guided tour) and sip your way through world-famous whites like Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewürztraminer. You'll find family-run wineries and scenic cellar doors around every bend.

2. The Cutest Alsatian Villages

Riquewihr: Straight out of a fairy tale — cobblestone streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and flower boxes everywhere. Come for the atmosphere, stay for the wine.
Obernai: One of Flo’s favorite little towns near Strasbourg — charming, lively, and less touristy than the more famous villages. Great for strolling, shopping, and grabbing a local tarte flambée.
Colmar: Often called "Little Venice," this town is larger but still walkable, with canals, quaint alleys, and stunning Renaissance architecture. It’s beautiful in any season.

3. Wellness Break in Germany: Baden-Baden & Caracalla Spa

Just an hour from Strasbourg, Baden-Baden is a historic spa town in the Black Forest, known for its elegant streets, thermal baths, and relaxed pace. Head straight to the Caracalla Spa, where you can soak in warm mineral waters, steam rooms, and outdoor pools with mountain views — perfect after a day of walking or wine tasting.

✨ Tip: Bring your swimsuit and towel — and don’t be shy, some areas are clothing-optional (but clearly marked!).

Why We Love It

Strasbourg feels like a gentle blend of cultures, with the warmth of a small town and the energy of a European capital. Every visit feels different — in the best way. It’s a place where you slow down, eat well, and feel completely at home, even if it’s your first time.

And for Flo, it’s home in the most nostalgic and personal way — a place that shaped her love for food, travel, and the little things that make life sweet.

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