Strasbourg: what to do, what to see...

Strasbourg Grande-Ile was the first urban area in France to receive UNESCO recognition and its heritage can be appreciated with views from the Gothic cathedral, a boat ride through the charming Petite France quarter or a visit to the Neustadt district. Its proximity to Germany is echoed in the oldest Christmas market in Europe, its local gastronomy and the wines that can be explored along its wine route.

WHAT TO SEE

• The UNESCO-listed city centre, including its cathedral, Petite France district and half-timbered houses
• Exceptional architecture and urbanism in the Neustadt district, built between 1871 and 1914
• The refinement and friendliness of shopping in the Carré d’Or district
• The unique atmosphere at the immense Christmas market, the oldest in France
• The Strasbourg Mon Amour! ten-day Valentine’s festival to celebrate lovers

WHAT TO DO

• A Batorama boat-tour with commentary on the river
• Gourmet walking tours focusing on typical products with "Food and City Tours"
• The mini-train exploring the picturesque old town and the romantic Petite France
• The city by bike on the largest cycle network in France, also open to Segways
• Shopping in the city centre

WHAT TO TASTE

• Sauerkraut in white wine with salty and smoked meat
• Flammekueche tart with cream, cheese, bacon and onions
• Alsace wines and eaux-de-vie
• Chocolates from Pâtisserie Christian, blending modernity and tradition
• Mireille Oster's gingerbread paradise

WHAT TO BRING BACK

• Bottles of Alsatian wine, beer or eaux-de-vie
• Kouglopf Alsatian brioche or Bredele Christmas cookies
• A Terrine or Kouglopf mould by a local potter
• Tablecloths decorated with flowers, embroidery, pastel or sequins
• A variety of tasty cheeses, including Munster

Getting to Strasbourg