Known as the “Crossroads of Europe” Strasbourg is one of the only cities that has changed its nationality up to 4 different times between France and Germany due to its sought-out location. Although today Strasbourg is settled as a French city, there are a lot of Germanic influences to be discovered in this unique city.
Spend some time exploring the historic Old Town and taking in the animated astronomical clock show at the Notre Dame Cathedral, entertaining locals and visitors alike.
Explore romantic Petite France, a district brimming with charm and history, discovering the unique set of museums and feasting at the Alsatian-style restaurants. Hop over to the European District, the hub of the Council of Europe, and tour the European Parliament yourself!
In the summer, stroll in the incredibly beautiful Parc de l’Orangerie, smelling the rich blossoms while enjoying a picnic. In the winter, indulge in the winter magic of December, as Strasbourg is unofficially known as the “Christmas Capital”.
With this and more, let’s get down to the details of the best fun things to do in Strasbourg!
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1 – See the active astronomical clock at the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg
Visit the oldest Gothic church in the world, and the sixth tallest church in the world, the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg.
Settled in Old Town (Grande Île) work on the Cathedral began in 1015. Though some visitors may pay attention to the beautiful Gothic architecture, with a few Romanesque elements, an attention drawer is a single tower on the church with the city’s first astronomical clock.
To see the astronomical clock in action, wait outside the South Portal between 12:00-12:30 PM to see the apostle animation play out!
Step inside, and you’ll discover numerous sculptures, and 14th-century stained windows, with high arches and naves.
Climb up to the cathedral platform to get sprawling views of Strasbourg, and even a bit beyond to the countryside. Cathedral tours are available to maximize the experience!
2 – Discover the grandeur of Grande Île
Take a walking tour to discover the beauty of Grand Île (Old Town) to see some of the important sites, while taking in quirky and unique sights like Cerf pharmacy, the oldest pharmacy in France.
Walk past the Maison Kammerzell, a 15th-century home-turned-restaurant that has a detailed facade describing biblical and mythological imagery
Discover the beautiful Place Gutenberg, a square known for its literary affairs, from stalls selling books to honoring the statue of Johannes Gutenberg, who was known as a key figure in the invention of printing.
Book a walking tour to expand your knowledge about Old Town, as you walk with a local guide through the romantic square, Place du Château, in the heart of Old Town where the cathedral and many more historic sites reside.
3 – See the major city activities go down at Place Kléber
Make your way to the largest square in Strasbourg, Place Kléber, conveniently situated in the center of Old Town.
Surrounded by classical buildings, and exuding an especially stunning Christmas spirit in December, Place Kléber is the main place where all the major city activities take place.
Check out L’Aubette Statue du Général Kléber, a statue dedicated to the important Strasbourg figure known for his military strategies that helped France win many wars. His body now resides underneath the statue.
From historic buildings to buzzing restaurants, and modern clothing brands shops, make sure to take a night stroll through Place Kléber to see the stunning illumination of the square.
4 – Zip through old Town on a segway tour
Want to explore Old Town in a fun way? Hop on an exciting Segway tour with a local guide, seeing more of the Old Town, faster, and a few other corners of Strasbourg. The city is extremely walkable, making a segway tour an extremely easy and safe experience.
For 2 hours, explore the new and old, passing through areas like Petite France and the Neustadt District. Learn about those who lived in these areas of the city, the different architectural styles that adorn the city’s buildings, as well as learning about the European District, and all the services it provides to Europe.
The segway tour includes all the necessary tools like a helmet, segway, and even a rain poncho. If you opt for the morning tour, you’ll be welcomed with some coffee before the adventure starts!
5 – Smell the fresh flowers at Parc de l’Orangerie
Bask in the botanical beauty at Parc de l’Orangerie, the oldest park in Strasbourg, conveniently only an 8-minute drive from Old Town, adorned with footbridges, fountains, lakes, and even a waterfall.
Designed with the inspiration of an English Garden and other similar landscapes, get close to the lakes, where you’ll see dozens of different wildlife roaming freely, including storks. The best things to do at the park are to take a leisurely walk through the picture-perfect paths, underneath the shady trees, or bring your own food for a divine picnic with friends.
Walk into the Pavillion Joséphine, the yellow mansion in the garden. The pavilion is most commonly used as a space where outdoor exhibits are hosted, so stop by to see what’s on! The pavilion was named after Empress Joséphine, in the 19th century.
6 – Go back in time at the Alsatian Museum
You may have walked the Old Town, but now it’s time to get to know Strasbourg through its historical archives and exhibits inside the Alsatian Museum!
Find objects and cultural items found throughout the city, telling the story of Strasbourg and the Alsace region from its beginning to modern days. Inside the 16th-century timber house turned museum, the space itself offers an invitation to get lost in the exhibits and more than 5,000 items depicting daily life in Strasbourg.
The houses in which the museums exist were important symbols of French identity during heavy German influence. Connected via staircases and housing the original furniture inside, you’re in for a real trip back in time when visiting the museum.
The museum is open every day except for Tuesdays, and entry for adults is 7,50 euros.
7 – Check out the museums inside the Palais Rohan
Visit the opulent Palais Rohan, a baroque palace that was built in the 1720s, and designed after the luxurious mansions of Paris at the time.
Located in central Old Town, the Palais Rohan was built with the help of Prince Bishop Armand-Gaston. After Strasbourg returned to French rule, the Bishop wanted to exemplify the superiority of the French crown with the construction of a large new palace, thus the Palais Rohan.
Today, visitors and locals flock to the palace to engage with the beauty whether it’s for a midday stroll or it’s to check out the museums.
The Palais Rohan today has 3 museums inside, archaeology, decorative arts, and fine art, scattered throughout. There is an entry cost into the palace and the museums, however, it’s free entry on the first Sunday of the month.
8 – Explore the city on your own on a scavenger game
Want to explore Strasbourg on your own terms? Check out a scavenger game, a fun game where you download a list of prompts and questions to check out to explore Strasbourg in a fun and unique way.
There’s no timer, other than your own, which means you and your friends can go as slow or fast when finding the items in your scavenger game! Take your time to snap a selfie in front of the hidden gem spots on the list, many of which some locals don’t even know about themselves!
Whether you do a scavenger game on your own, or with your friends, you’re in for a great time! Aside from the fun you’ll have, a scavenger game starts at only $7 USD, making it one of the most inexpensive things to do in Strasbourg.
9 – Explore the city on two wheels on a bike tour
Fun news! You can also explore the picturesque city of Strasbourg on a bike tour, along with the guidance of your local and passionate guide.
Take the paths less traveled, and stop by hidden alleyways and residential areas that lead to the main streets and main sights. Bike through the fascinating 19th-century Neustadt district, European institutions, the Gutenberg Palace, and the scenic corner of Place Saint Etienne.
Lastly, you’ll bike down the panoramic bike paths of the fragrant Parc de l’Orangerie! Keep in mind that the tour is available all year long, except for Christmas time. If you’re visiting during Christmas time and you’re looking for a bike tour, check out the Christmas Market Bike Tour!
The tour lasts approximately 2.5-3 hours, so make sure to dress comfortably for the journey!
10 – Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petite France
Make your way to the incredibly picture-perfect Petite France, one of Strasbourg’s historic districts. This 15th-century neighborhood was the home of fishermen, millers, and tanners who created their living in the cobblestone streets lined with sturdy timber-built buildings.
With its cute canals and slim roads, Petite France is also commonly compared to the charm of Venice. The River lll calmly passes through Petite France, adding a true beauty that you have to see while you’re in Strasbourg.
Take the Mini Train, snaking around the different corners of Petite France, to discover buildings like the Place Benjamin Zix Square and the Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, the Saint Thomas Square, and Pont Couvert, and many more corners of the district!
Train tickets start at 8 euros per adult and last 35-40 minutes. Tours are offered in many languages including English.
11 – Make evening plans to attend a Candlelight Concert
Admire music in a unique way when you make plans to attend a charming candlelight concert in Strasbourg!
Ignite your evening with a better music experience, whether you’re trying to find romantic activities to do with your partner, or you’re looking to do something fun by yourself. Enjoy the classical musical renditions of famous artists and singers, from Queen’s greatest hits, to ABBA, the Weeknd, and more!
Surrounded by the dazzling lights lighting up the stage, enjoy a focus on music like never before!
Look through numerous concerts, make sure to finish your booking online, and then receive your e-ticket conveniently in your email inbox. Candlelit concerts start at $24 USD.
12 – Get pretty views of the city from Barrage Vauban
Make your way to the Barrage Vauban, a stunning 17th-century bridge that sits only a 15-minute car drive from Old Town. The pink sandstone bridge crosses over the River lll, offering scenic views of the canals nearby, as well as towers, and the Old Town of Strasbourg, including the cathedral.
Back when the bridge was built, it was known as “The Great Lock”. Today, it houses multiple sculptures and more viewing opportunities on the bridge itself and the roof, from up there, you can see even more of Strasbourg’s countryside.
Go inside to check out the lapidarium where you’ll find more examples of statues, plaster casts, and even a few gargoyles, inside the closed space on the bridge. The bridge is free to walk across.
13 – Stroll through the picturesque Ponts Couverts
Settled in the Petite France quarter, the Ponts Couverts are 3 sets of covered bridges that are comprised of 4 – 14th-century towers that date back to the 18th century.
While the name translated to English means “Covered Bridges” the bridges are currently not covered, however, the name stuck since its original fortification. The earliest purpose of the bridges was to create a defensive structure against enemies.
Though today the bridges are scenic attractions to check out and take a few photos from.
Step through the bridges, and take in the detailed architecture and carvings. Look out from the bridges, and the canals of the River lll for a quiet moment throughout your sightseeing. The Ponts Couverts is a 15-minute walk from Old Town.
14 – Take your sightseeing to the canals on a boat tour
Take your adventures through the rivers and canals of Strasbourg on a boat tour, where you’ll gain insight into the different points of the city and monuments, from a unique perspective.
You’ll get a chance to hop on a special boat, and comfortably enjoy the scene of the 16th-century buildings, bridges, and more as you take the tour through the canals of Strasbourg.
The boat tour lasts anywhere between 1-2 hours depending on the tour you choose, where you’ll get to cruise down the River lll, its slim canals, and see up close the Barrage Vauban and the Ponts Couverts.
Absorb the stunning architecture of the buildings in Petite France near the water, and feel like you’re stepping back in time to the 16th century.
Pro tip: Take the boat tour during sunset for a magical ambiance.
15 – Check out the activities at St. Paul’s Church
Walk inside the Neo-Gothic St. Paul’s Church, a beautiful landmark of Strasbourg, dating back to 1892.
Take note of the different details inside the church, from the 2 pews beside the choir, reserved for the Imperial couple and other important figures, as well as the many doors on the side of the church, designed to allow numerous soldiers inside the to specific seats based on their rank.
Nowadays, the church offers various programs for locals from hikes to bible study, dinners, and many social experiences together. The church is currently a reformed protestant church.
If you’re a fan of poetry, make sure to check out the church’s poetry festival, which takes place on March 16-19th. The poetry festival circles around poetry and religion, and it is held at the church on those 4 days.
16 – Escape into a fantasy world for the day with VR
Travel is all about trying new things… so why not break the bonds of normalcy? In these amazing VR environments, you can journey to Ancient Egypt, bop around on other planets, or get involved in a heated battle between humans and zombies… where you’re on the zombie team!
Starting at $27 USD, VR rooms are growing to be one of the best and most fun activities to do in Strasbourg for fun, whether you’re looking to take a break from museum hopping to cut loose, or you’re looking to do an indoor activity on a rainy day!
These adventures will keep your whole group entertained, and they’re pretty dazzling to boot!
17 – Take a breather at The Two Shores Garden
Two Shores Garden is a park that is set on both sides of the Rhine river, with a bridge connecting the two parks, acting as a symbol of friendship between the French and German sides of Strasbourg. The park often holds open-air events, from floral fairs, and more!
Parc de la Citadelle is another wonderful park with walking paths, curated gardens, and often the host of numerous events in the city, from music to cultural festivals. Visit especially during the summer and fall!
A long-time favorite park of the higher class, Parc du Contades is a beautiful park to stroll on one sunny afternoon. Stop by the Villa Osterloss, a piece of Renaissance architecture towards the end of the park, and check by the bandstand to see if any live music is taking place.
Parc del l’Étoile is a wonderful park located a 13-minute walk from Old Town. Opt to bring a picnic lunch, and take in your surroundings for the afternoon.
18 – Explore the sociopolitical European District
The European District is a section of Strasbourg in which various government buildings reside, including the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights, and the European Parliament of the European Union.
This is the center where all major debates, important votes, and events that impact Europe take place, and it’s open for visitors!
You can either go in by yourself, choose a group tour, or guided tour to explore the European District. You can download the “EP Visiting Strasbourg” app and direct your own self-guided tour that way.
However, if you visit during the months of April, July, August, and December, groups and individuals are permitted to enter only with a guide. The European District is a 10-minute drive from Old Town, and 18 minutes on public transportation.
19 – Contemplate art inside the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Visit the multiple art spaces and exhibits at the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, housed inside a modern glass building, on the edge of the River lll.
Wander around, and look through the different collections, showcasing impressionism, post-impressionism art, surrealism, expressionism, and much more. Check out the temporary exhibits, highlighting different artists of the time, and their most notable work.
Look into the works of Gustave Doré, a Strasbourg native who was an artist known for his wood-engraving art, and many other types of art.
The museum also has an auditorium, bookshop, and library, as well as a cafe and restaurant for the perfect midday pick-me-up, with wide open views of the River lll and quaint Petite France.
Entry to the museum starts at 7,50 euros for adults and is free for children.
20 – Be in the company of dozens of animals at Parc animalier Friedel
Looking to visit a few animals without barriers? Step into Parc animalier Friedel, located 12 minutes away from Strasbourg city center, this fantastic park offers an interactive experience with a few local animals, ranging from sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, cows, and more!
Walk down the scenic paths of the little 2-hectare, coming across over 180 majestic animals and even a few exotic birds, getting to pet them, and connecting with them for a moment. While you’re in search of these farm animals, you’ll also get to see a bit of the local vegetation, from native trees to flowers and more!
The park is open daily, from Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
21 – Take a day trip through the Alsace region
Alsace is an interesting region in which Strasbourg is the capital, that historically, was neither fully French nor German. However, one thing is certain, and that is the Medieval charm and beauty of the villages of the area are worthy of being explored.
Set off on a day tour from Strasbourg, exploring the numerous villages, castles, and natural landscapes that make the Alsace region that much more interesting.
Explore the cobblestone streets of picture-perfect towns like Colmar and Eguisheim, walk near the medieval walls, and explore the 12-century castle of High Koenigsbourg, amongst many other sites on this exciting day trip!
On your tour, you’ll drive by some jaw-dropping gorgeous sights of vineyards, scenic green hills, and lakes all around. It will feel like it was taken straight out of a Disney movie!
22 – Sip the best local wine on a wine tour
Sample the best regional wines on a half-day tour from Strasbourg to the best vineyards of the Alsace region.
Known as one of the best wine regions in France, you’ll visit 2 wineries and sample anywhere from 5-7 different local wines while walking the vineyards and learning directly from the winemakers themselves.
Taste centuries-old wine when you book a cellar visit, and truly gain the knowledge and work that it takes to create some of the most prestigious wines in Strasbourg! Along with this epic presentation and interactive experience, you’ll also enjoy a sampling of Alsatian breads and snacks that will make a delicious pairing.
Cellar visits start at $17 USD.
23 – Explore the Neustadt district and Palais du Rhin
The Neustadt district is considered Strasbourg’s German district, and its name in German means “new city”. The district was formed by the Germans after the Franco-Prussian war of 1871, and their intention was to create a modern city for the time with improved design and engineering.
With ample things to do and explore for yourself, start with analyzing the famous beautiful Prussian architecture of the buildings, exquisite gardens, Art Nouveau buildings, and the Place de la République.
One of the popular sights at Neustadt is the Palais du Rhin, which used to be a symbol of political power. Today, it is a state-owned building, and it is open to visitors.
Come by, walk underneath the shady trees, look near the stables, and look closely at the engravings on the facade of the building. The palace has free entry!
24 – Breathe fresh mountain air on a Black Forest day trip
Cross the border to the Black Forest in Germany, and come face to face with one of the most scenic natural regions of Germany, stopping by a few other notable cities throughout.
The Black Forest is only a little over 1 hour away and is named after the dark and shady pine trees populating the mountains. The Black Forest is a forested mountain range with a high peak of 1,493 meters.
When you book a day trip to the Black Forest, you’ll also get to stop by Baden-Baden, a favored destination by royal family members, celebrities, and other notable figures for its stunning architecture, villas, and scenic landscape.
Another drawing feature of Baden-Baden is its thermal waters, which you can enjoy at Caracalla Spa Thermal Bath, offering massages, saunas, and refreshing waterfalls.
25 – Snowshoe through the forest
With a blanket of white and the bracing open air, the world around you will feel magical when you’re snowshoeing!
Known historically as one of the traditional ways of moving around snowy mountains, today, snowshoeing is a lot more lighthearted, and offers one of the best and most affordable winter sports to take part in while visiting Strasbourg!
Explore the scenic snow-capped mountains and journey through the chilly Schlucht Pass, as you catch sight of panoramic frozen Schiessrothried and Fischboedle lakes, and more!
This strange method of locomotion is pretty easy to pick up, and you’ll get amazing opportunities to see the quieter side of the wintry world unfold around you!
26 – Bring your best outfit for the Opéra national du Rhin
The Opéra national du Rhin is an important cultural and performative arts space in Strasbourg, and it is conjointly run by 2 bonus cities near Strasbourg – Mulhouse and Colmar. The opera is therefore made up of 3 different arts: opera, ballet, and singing.
Since 1997, the Opéra national du Rhin was given the title of “National Opera” while offering over 100 different performances annually and entertaining over 100,000 people. Opera is a cornerstone of French culture, therefore a visit to the opera is surely something to add to your list of things to do in Strasbourg!
Check out the performances taking place at the Théâtre Alsacien de Strasbourg, offering a number of performances, from theater, opera, comedy, and more! Check out their calendar of upcoming events, and purchase your tickets online as well.
27 – Find interesting Vodou artifacts inside the Château Musée Vodou
Visit the largest collection of Vodou artifacts in the world at the Château Musée Vodou, housed in a 19th-century water tower, only a 9-minute drive from Old Town.
Created by Marc Arbogast and his wife, Arbogast was always fascinated with Western African religions and beliefs, and after collecting his own items, he decided to put them on display for the public to see.
Learn in-depth about the different elements of Vodou, proving to be very different from what we are fed through media. See examples of Vodou dolls, and other materials used in the religion, and see the comparison and similarities that Vodou has with other religions including Christianity.
The museum is a great way to learn more about this often-popularized practice and religious belief, so don’t miss out! Entry to the museum is free.
28 – Enjoy Strasbourg’s finest foods on a food tour
Get your grub on with the best regional cuisine that Strasbourg has to offer through a delicious food tour!
With many of its famous dishes including both French and German influences, some of the dishes you’ll be sampling include Sauerkraut, Tarte Flambée (Alsatian-style pizza), Saucisses (Alsatian sausages) and of course, Munster cheese, and more!
Many food tours will also include a wine portion, so you’ll truly get a great helping of food, cultural insight, and an incredible appreciation for the local cuisine.
Enrich your palette, and check out the best cheese tastings in Strasbourg! Sample the most renowned regional cheeses, while trying them with the perfect sweet and savory combinations.
29 – Visit the new and improved Planetarium University of Strasbourg
Only 10 minutes from Old Town is the recently renovated Planetarium University of Strasbourg which opened in spring 2023, offering a fun way to share with locals and visitors fascinating research and findings in the astronomy field.
With a planetarium room and a garden, walk through to see for yourself the dome screens with astronomical simulators to feel like you’ve taken a trip through the universe. Learn about the connection between the universe and nature on earth, and learn firsthand the scientific and artistic approach that the planetarium is showcasing its exhibits.
From the planets and the solar system to extraterrestrial life, and major astronomical findings, you’ll surely find yourself spending some time at this wonderful science center, offered in multiple languages.
Entry starts at 8 euros for adults and 6 euros for children.
30 – Bathe like a modern-day aristocrat at the Municipal Baths of Strasbourg
Enter the extremely beautiful Municipal baths of Strasbourg, the place where the wealthy class visited, especially in the winter to swim, bathe, and socialize.
The baths were recently renovated in 2018, and with this renovation, modern amenities have been added for the comfort of visitors. The style of the baths combines Baroque, Renaissance, and even a few Japanese styles, with soft, neutral colors, inspired by nature.
Take advantage of a number of things to do at the baths, from exercise and dance classes to swimming pools, saunas, cold plunges, salt baths, and much more! In addition, some of the baths still exist, so you too can hang out in the baths as they did back in the early 1900s.
Add a bit of TLC to your Strasbourg activities, and indulge in the numerous activities at the baths!
31 – Smell the roses at the Botanical Gardens of Strasbourg University
Flower lovers, Strasbourg University holds a botanical garden of its own that is worthy of an afternoon visit, featuring over 6,000 different plant species, and a number of trees to admire, for a perfect lazy day.
Located 11 minutes from Old Town, the botanical garden has a few greenhouses to check out that house tropical plants, and other plants. Walk the famed Trail of History to learn more about the garden’s past as a cemetery, or for a lighter feel, walk down the Trail of the Arboretum to learn more about the trees residing in the garden.
Entry is free, and it opens for the season on March 1st and closes between December 24th-Februrary 28th. Refer to their website to check the hours of operation, as they can vary depending on the day.
32 – Impulse your child’s imagination at La Vaisseau
Le Vaisseau is a science center brimming with experimental and educational exhibitions that will surely offer more than a few hours of science entertainment.
Geared toward the younger travelers in your group, check out the 7+ different exhibits, showcasing a variety of science topics of interest, from math to learning about artificial intelligence and algorithms, to the forest and nature, and playing with light and optical illusions, and more!
Unlike many other museums, Le Vaisseau encourages visitors to please touch and play with the items in the exhibits to really get the most out of the lessons and experiences. Check out the temporary exhibits as well, each highlighting a unique specialization in the science, technology, and natural world, for an added fee.
Tickets start at 8 euros for adults and children between 3-18 years old.
33 – Get a personal view of WWll at MM Park France
See some of the machinery used during World War ll in this unique war museum located only 21 minutes away from the city center of Strasbourg called MM Park France.
See objects inside ranging from German E-boats, warplanes, motorcycles, and even a few personal items belonging to the soldiers who fought during the war.
In a space of over 7,000 square meters, this impressive and all-encompassing war museum showcases even a few items and machinery used during war that you won’t find anywhere else. Aside from the fascinating exhibits, you’ll also get to participate in a few of the interactive activities, from flight simulators, to even an air-gun shooting range.
34 – Learn about the history of Struthof Concentration Camp
Have an educative moment when you visit the Struthof Concentration Camp, located a few miles east of Strasbourg city center, and learn about the location of this specific concentration camp, its location, and its active years during World War ll.
Active between the years of 1941 and 1944, and carrying out numerous horrific events, you will learn and create a greater consciousness over the time you spend time on the site with your guide.
To finalize the experience, you’ll be taken to the panoramic site of Alsace and Christian Mont Saint Odile and see the impressive views from these impressive nature spots.
The experience starts at $161 USD and lasts 6 hours.
35 – Make some chocolate at the Musée du Chocolat par Schaal
Time to get your hands dirty at the Musée du Chocolat par Schaal, stepping in for a seriously sweet time! Learn more about the journey of chocolate from bean to sweet dessert beloved by over 7 billion people annually.
Take a tour of the museum, walking through the three exhibit spaces, and detailing the secrets of the specific way in which chocolate is produced in the local factory by the chocolate pros. After your route, enter the chocolate lab, testing the techniques for yourself, followed by the best part, tasting your creations!
Be sure to stop by the museum’s restaurant for a rich chocolate shake or gift shop to bring home some delicious chocolate!
To reserve your tickets, go online where you can choose between doing the whole experience (museum and workshop) or just the museum.
36 – Discover the oldest wine on earth at the Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg
Did you know that for 600 years, some of the best local wine was created in the cellar of the Strasbourg Hospices? To date, the wine stored in the barrels is some of the oldest wine on earth that dates back to 1472.
Come learn about some of the wines stored, including Alsatian Riesling, Sylvaner Muscat, or Pinot Gris, amongst many local wines right inside the historic cellar. The cellars are open daily for visitors to come down, see the giant wood barrels, and get the fascinating history behind this ancestral tradition.
The cellars are currently located in the Civil Hospital, located a 14-minute walk from Old Town.
Entry to the cellars is free, and audio guides are available for rent in multiple languages for 3 euros, as well as private tours for large groups.
37 – See 18th-century baroque funerary art at St. Thomas Church
With over 230,000 annual visitors, come by to the main Lutheran church in Strasbourg – St. Thomas Church. The church is built in Alsatian Gothic art, and houses an impressive choir and fascinating mausoleum considered an example of 18th-century baroque funerary art.
Entry is free to the church, and guided tours are available. If you’d like to inquire about a tour, make sure to arrange it beforehand with the information on their website.
The Église Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune is a spectacular church known for its well-preserved art history pieces and architecture, with its Gothic and Romanesque architecture, and stunning 14th-century frescoes.
Known as the oldest church in Strasbourg, the Church of Old Saint Peters was first recorded in 1130. For a while, the church was divided in half, with Protestants and Catholics worshipping on different ends of the Church.
38 – Make your grand escape at a fun escape room
Beat the shortest time at the Escape Rooms in Strasbourg, offering a thrilling and fun time with you and your friends! Put your heads together, and as a group, figure out each riddle, and find the solution to the questions that unlock you to the next level, until you finally make your escape!
Check out The Little Red Door – Escape Room, located only a 12-minute walk from Old Town, featuring themed rooms including Ghost Chasers, Bunker Expedition, Bank Robbery, and many more rooms with fun props!
Get your problem-solving skills ready to tackle these popular escape rooms, which require prior reservation online. Reservations start as early as 9:00 AM all the way to midnight! Rates start at 36 euros for a group of 2 people, and the more people you have, the lower the cost is!
39 – See the fairytale sights from the tops of the Alsatian Castles
Discover some of the most impressive and Disney-like castles in the Alsatian region, surrounded by rolling hills with vineyards, cobblestone squares, and historic architecture.
The Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle is known by many to be one of the best castles in the Alsatian region. A home for royals throughout its early years, with multiple events taking place, take a guided tour and learn about its impressive architecture, and what life was like in the 15th century. Soak in the outstanding views from the castle of the picturesque green hills.
Next, check out Haut-Barr Castle, which sits on 3 rocks known as the “devil’s bridge”. The views are hands down the attention-grabbers, with iconic views of the nature around. Some say that on clear days, you can see as far as the arrowhead of the Strasbourg cathedral!
40 – Learn more about Strasbourg at the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg
Get an epic rundown of local history at the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg, featuring the historical milestones experienced in Strasbourg, and turning points that shaped the city, with artifacts.
For the art lovers, check out The Tomi Ungerer Museum – International Illustration Centre, a collection of more than 14,000 drawings created by the local artist, Tomi Ungerer. This museum is unique as it’s one of the few illustration museums in Europe.
The Strasbourg Museum of Fine Arts offers a wonderful collection of European paintings dating as far back as 1870, from Italian Renaissance, Baroque, to 20th-century pieces. The museum is located on the first floor of the Rohan Palace.
Lastly, the Œuvre Notre-Dame Museum is a wonderful museum that uncovers the last 7 centuries of art from Strasbourg, within a beyond-beautiful setting right behind the cathedral.
41 – Attend a concert at the eco-friendly Zénith de Strasbourg
Situated only a 10-minute ride from Old Town is the sports and concert complex Zénith de Strasbourg, the home of some of the top entertainment in Strasbourg.
Built with recycled materials, the Zénitch de Strasbourg complex is a fascinating space to visit for a concert or entertaining show. Spectacles like operas and philharmonic concerts take place, as well as a number of international artists. If sports are your thing, the complex hosts a number of indoor sporting events like hosting the Trial Bike World Champion.
Complete with a bar and restaurant, you can grab a snack and drink to enjoy while you’re entertained. Because it’s an indoor entertainment complex, plans at the Zénith de Strasbourg are amongst some of the best rainy day activities in Strasbourg.
42 – Get your thrill on at the award-winning Europa Park
Grab your friends and some courage to get on some of the most scream-inducing roller coasters and rides at Europa Park amusement park and water resort.
Located 60 kilometers near the Black Forest in Germany, is one of the largest parks in the country with over 90 rides to make some fun memories with! Divided into several “countries” you can visit countries like Ireland and Italy for themed games and vibes.
There is also a year-round water park to take full advantage of, trippy optical illusion shows, movie theaters, and plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy!
A day pass for adults starts at 57 euros and for children 4-11 it starts at 49 euros. For the amount of entertainment, it’s truly one of the most exciting activities in Strasbourg!
43 – Fuel your need for speed at STRAS KART
Looking to blow off a little steam while in Strasbourg? Check out the activities at STRAS KART.
Providing a great ambiance for go-karting, you’ll zip by the state-of-the-art tracks, equipped with a few other accessories and features that will be sure to elevate the visuals and experience of your go-karting fun.
Enjoy racing through the 150-meter-long bridge, plus more as you try to beat out your competition simultaneously. For those traveling with children, this is a great opportunity to do a fun sports activity together, as children-safe go-karting is available too.
Also available now is the newly opened STRAS PAINTBALL, or ducking into the game room, for more fun options!
44 – Sip on a few craft drinks at the best bars
Code bar is the trendy place to be if you’re looking for a cool vibe, great music, and cocktails, located near Petite France.
Looking to get in front of the crowd to sing? Hit up Groove Box Karaoke Bar, where you can rent your own karaoke “box” and belt out your favorite jams with friends while ordering the house cocktails!
La Mandragore Bar is centrally located in Petite France, and offers a cool, vintage ambiance, with great staff, and reasonably priced drinks. If you’re looking for themed bars, check out L’Alchemiste, only a 3-minute walk from the Strasbourg Cathedral, with themed nights, depending on the season.
Sip a craft beer while swaying to the live music on the weekends or catching a big game match at Exils Bar, centrally located in Old Town. There’s always a crowd hanging around!
Consider What The Fox Bar, featuring a great selection of beer, wine, and a handful of craft cocktails! It’s the perfect place to play some foosball, or get a little rowdy watching the game on the big screen TVs!
Visit for the drinks, and stay for the delicious food options at Les Berthom Strasbourg! Order a traditional German beer and ask the helpful waitstaff for food recommendations, sure to make the perfect pairing for a night out!
45 – Enjoy the best restaurants offering local delicacies
Have a choucrote garnie (sauerkraut), one of the traditional dishes of the Alsatian region, at Maison des Tanneurs, a timber-built restaurant in the heart of Petite France.
Restaurant Le 1741 offers a comforting dining experience enjoying chef-created meals including decadent dishes like miniature cod tarts and green lentil salad with tomato emulsion. Order a 3-course meal for 45 euros each, and enjoy a sampling of the best of local cuisine.
Order to your heart’s content from the comfort food menu at Au Pont Corbeau, serving rich and hearty Alsatian dishes including bacon, sausage, and other hearty meat dishes worth a try!
Eat where the celebs go, and check out the buzzing Chez Yvonne, one of the oldest restaurants in Strasbourg. Serving cheeses, meats, mostly sausages, make sure to order a delicious wine from the main list.
46 – Visit Strasbourg during Christmas
Though Strasbourg can definitely be enjoyed all year round beautifully, there is something about visiting the city during the Christmas season that’s undeniably magical.
Strasbourg during the Christmas season is a scene of festive lights hanging from almost every historic building, dazzling Christmas markets that give a warm fuzzy feeling, and admiring the big tree in the middle of the square, and the unique ambiance that the city beautifully shows off.
Because it’s a popular season to visit Strasbourg, you can enjoy several unique Christmas tours in the city from a Christmas Bike Tour to a Christmas Bike Tour of the Christmas Markets, and more!
Speaking of Christmas Markets, Place Kleber hosts a Christmas market, selling chocolate, gingerbread cookies, and wonderful Christmas-themed souvenirs to take home. It’s a magical experience visiting Strasbourg in December at least once!
How to get to Strasbourg?
After landing at Strasbourg International Airport (SXB), the historic Old Town is only 12.1 kilometers away. Though you can take the train to Old Town, the most comfortable option is booking an airport transfer.
Forget about lugging your luggage through cobblestone and crowded, narrow streets, and consider looking through the best airport transfers in Strasbourg to take you directly to your hotel door.
Where to stay in Strasbourg?
Hôtel Diana Dauphine is highly rated for its central location, its clean and chic rooms, comfortable beds, and detailed staff. Enjoy a fresh buffet breakfast every morning before your adventure starts!
Stay inside the timber-built Hotel Restaurant Au Cerf d’Or, a cute hotel with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in the afternoon, and a great location near exquisite dining options.
Enjoy a comfortable night inside the modern and clean suites at Hôtel Du Dragon, equipped with spectacular hospitality staff, and a decadent breakfast in the dining room. This hotel receives the stamp of approval from travel expert Rick Steve and thousands of previous guests.
Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg is a wonderful hotel with extra character, from the timber details like the indoor bridge to the exposed brick. The hotel is highly rated for its comfortable beds, central location, and Alsatian beauty.
Visiting Strasbourg on budget?
Stretch your travel budget and book a free walking tour in Strasbourg! Get a complete rundown of the city’s major sights, while also learning the lay of the land for yourself.
Get the Strasbourg City Pass to gain access to the city’s main sights, often skipping the line to museums and sights, as well as earning discounts for restaurants and extra bonuses.
Where to go next?
If you wish to extend your trip, make sure to check our list of the best places to visit in France. You may also decide to visit the nearby countries.
Start with the impressive things to do in Stuttgart, Germany enchanting with amazing museums, including the Mercedes Benz and Porsche Museums, and some of the largest botanical gardens in Europe.
See all the best things to do in Frankfurt, Germany’s financial hub city, starting with a visit to Anne Frank’s first home and Johann Wolfgang Goeth’s childhood home while getting lost in the big city.
Absorb the mix of different cultures, and languages, and a spectacular list of all the greatest things to do in Luxembourg. Admire the historic medieval architecture, while sipping some of the best Riesling you’ve ever had.
Check out the popular things to do in Zurich, Switzerland known as one of the most important financial centers in the world, which also preserves its beautiful Old Town. Relish the views of the Limmat River and the scenic Swiss Alps.
Enjoy the exquisite food scene and more charming things to do in Basel, Switzerland, but don’t worry, the city is also known for its ample parks perfect bike trails, and a great mix of historic landmarks.
Wondering what the best things to do in Bern, Switzerland? Be dazzled with its medieval architecture within the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to Indulge in chocolate at the Lindt Chocolate Factory!
Final thoughts
We hope that our list of the best things to do in Strasbourg gave you that extra push to book your ticket to the “Crossroads of Europe”.
From the stunning Nortre-Dame Cathedral to the charm of the wood-timbered homes, and the fascinating blend of Germany and France in one, there’s no shortage of oohs and ahhs in Strasbourg.
Happy travels!