I am a self-confessed lover of France. I love the country, the people, the language, the style and the food. Thanks to my (now considerably rusty) knowledge of French, I have fortunately never had the dubious pleasure of experiencing the famous French arrogance.
However, the fact that my friend Steph and I chose Strasbourg for our girls' weekend was purely coincidental. We just pointed our fingers at the map, so to speak. What's more, Steph doesn't particularly like France. Fortunately, she was quickly convinced (it took less than 30 minutes from the initial idea to the booking – that's how I like it).
So off we went to Strasbourg, a city that neither of us had paid any attention to before. Totally unjustified, as even the drizzle on the first afternoon proved. This city is a gem and deserves a city break in every respect! To whet your appetite, here are my best tips for a weekend in Strasbourg.
#1: Strasbourg Cathedral
The number one tip for a weekend in Strasbourg: Notre Dame Cathedral is definitely the first place to visit. This is not only because of its central location, but also because of its tower, which, at a height of 142 metres, can be seen from everywhere. Go there and be impressed. The Gothic splendour will leave you speechless.
We only went inside once briefly in the evening. Long queues of people wait to see the famous astronomical clock (which we didn't see) and to climb the unfinished south tower. Therefore, you should plan to visit these attractions either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the waiting time is short or there are no queues at all. Be sure to climb the tower, as the view over the city is magnificent. Those who are afraid of heights (like me) be warned: the walls around the spiral staircase open up very airily at each turn. With Dori's motto (from the film Finding Nemo) ‘Just keep swimming, just keep swimming’, I made it up and down safely. But afterwards, I still had to drown the adrenaline in an Aperol Spritz.
We were very lucky to be in Strasbourg at the same time as the city-wide exhibition L’Industrie Magnifique . As part of this exhibition, works of art were displayed throughout the city. The most impressive? “Mammuthus Volantes” on the south side of the cathedral. Take a look at the video!!
#2: La Petite France
This neighbourhood is the jewel of Strasbourg and famous for its beautiful half-timbered houses. From the Middle Ages onwards, tanners lived and worked here, and until the 1950s it was the city's ‘shanty town’. Now it is the main attraction and really worth taking the time to stroll through the narrow streets. Countless bars, cafés, restaurants and shops are waiting to be discovered.
#3: Barrage Vauban
The Barrage Vauban was built as a weir to protect the city. It was even possible to block the river and thus secure the city in an emergency. It may not be visually stunning, but the view from the roof terrace is simply fantastic. Towards La Petite France, you have the perfect view of the Ponts Couverts and the canals of the Ill. My advice: come in the evening and take advantage of the beautiful warm light for perfect photos.
#4: Discover the beautiful squares in the city
Strasbourg offers many wonderful small and large squares with cafés, restaurants and seating areas. If you just go with the flow and sometimes stray from the beaten path, you will discover one after the other. My favourites? The Place du Marché Gayot with its chilled bars and the Place St. Étienne, which has a cheerful student atmosphere during the week.
Food, food, food!
It's no coincidence that the saying ‘living like God in France’ refers to food. Admittedly, those who are not vegetarians and are open to trying specialities will find it easier here. However, my friend Steph, who is a vegetarian, also had an excellent weekend.
Strasbourg loves hearty food. The famous choucroute consists of mountains of meat and sauerkraut. I have to admit that it's not really my taste either. However, I could eat the region's typical tarte flambée with every main meal, and luckily it's available on every corner. Another typical speciality is foie gras. As ethically terrible as this dish is, I confess with a heavy heart: I LOVE IT! I had to order it at least once while I was there, and I enjoyed every last crumb. Yes, I'm sorry. BUT IT'S SO GOOD!
Snails, on the other hand, cause most people less ethical than disgusting problems. By the way, I think they're terrific. 😁
Fortunately, tastes vary, and Strasbourg is a very open-minded city when it comes to food. Sushi, vegan burgers, Indian, Vietnamese – if you don't feel like French food, you're still spoilt for choice here!
#6: Attention chocolate lovers
Addicted to chocolate? Then Strasbourg is the place for you. The city is home to several famous chocolatiers whose shops and cafés are a chocoholic's dream come true. At Christian , for example, you can enjoy not only wonderful, beautiful tartlets, but also really good ice cream. Jacques Bockel 's chocolate fountain and his large selection of the finest chocolate bars will definitely blow your calorie count sky high. This sinful treat is definitely a highlight of a weekend in Strasbourg!
#7: Evening mood and dawn
Is anyone else a sworn enemy of midday sunlight? No, don't worry, I'm all for enjoying the sun's rays and sipping a drink. But when it comes to photography, harsh sunlight is simply not a good idea. All the better when the day slowly draws to a close and the warm evening light bathes everything in a wonderful atmosphere.
Strasbourg really pulls out all the stops when it comes to lighting. When the famous L'Heure Bleue begins after sunset, the sight of the half-timbered houses and canals is pure magic.
Less popular but just as beautiful is the light of sunrise. During my holidays, I increasingly manage to get up before sunrise and take advantage of this fantastic atmosphere to take beautiful photos. Afterwards, however, I recommend taking a nap, otherwise it will be difficult to survive a day full of sightseeing.
Another clear advantage of being an early riser: at this time of day, there are no other people around, and the usually crowded tourist attractions are all mine!
#8: A boat trip is fun
One thing quickly catches your eye in Strasbourg: the many flat excursion boats that ply the Ill. Batorama are advertised everywhere. But is the tour really worth it?
We immediately notice that Steph and I, in our mid-30s, are bringing the average age down considerably. We join at least two coachloads of pensioners queuing to board our boat. As we set off, we realise that this is going to be a leisurely trip. The boat chugs along the Ill at a speed slower than walking pace.
We booked the grand tour, which takes us around the old town and out to the European Quarter. Through our headphones, we learn not only about the sights we pass, but also all kinds of historical facts. The background music is pleasant, but soporific during the 1 hour and 10 minute ride. The trip to the European Quarter in particular drags on quite a bit. Advantage: we see the European Parliament, which we would otherwise have missed. Disadvantage: after the trip, we need two double espressos to wake up again (maybe there was also an Aperol Spritz involved).
My recommendation: The tour is nice, but it's no substitute for walking around the city. Driving through La Petite France is a highlight, but the rest is just okay. However, the €9 for the short tour without the European Quarter is definitely worth it.
Finally, I would like to say that Strasbourg is a brilliant city that has something to offer everyone. I hope my tips for a weekend there have made you want to travel! Whether you are a family, a couple or a group of friends, there is always something for everyone. Party? Check! Good food? Check! Endless shopping? Check! Simply cool.
