Strasbourg is considered one of the most mesmerizing cities in France. Although it is difficult to consider it 100% French: located in the northeast of the country, it is in close proximity to the German border. Such a favorable location allows tourists not only to consider Strasbourg as the final destination of their trip, but also as a city that can be glimpsed in passing for a day or two.
What attracts tourists to this European city? What can you see here in one day?
Cathedral of Notre Dame (La Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg)
One of the main attractions of Strasbourg is Notre Dame Cathedral - a Gothic church made of pink sandstone. The facade of the cathedral is decorated with numerous ornaments and sculptures.
Externally, Notre Dame in Strasbourg can evoke associations with the cathedrals of Cologne and Ulm. This is not surprising. Like many things in this city, the cathedral was influenced by German and French architectural trends of the XIII-XIV centuries. The cathedral has only one, north, tower, which makes it asymmetrical and unique.
Everyone can climb the tower, but it should be borne in mind that you will have to climb on foot. The tower is 142 meters high and offers a stunning view of the city from its top.
Many historical figures climbed the tower, for example, Goethe climbed the stairs to the bell tower every day, overcoming his fears and calling the cathedral "the sublime tree of God" and "a giant delicate miracle."
- Address: Place de la Cathédrale
- Opening hours: Cathedral - Mon-Sat 09:30 - 11:15, 14:00 - 17:45; Sun 13:00 - 17:30, observation deck - 09:30 - 20:00 (from April to September); 10:00 - 18:00 (October to March)
- Cost: entrance to the cathedral - 3 Euro, for students and children - 2 Euro.
- Climbing observation deck- 5 Euro, for students and children - 3.5 Euro.
The clock is located in the south wing of Notre Dame Cathedral. The first clock was installed in 1353. Later, in 1842, others, more modern ones, were installed in their place.
According to legend, the inventor and creator of the watch was blinded after the completion of the work, so that the secret of their complex mechanism was hidden forever.
The clock is unique in that it shows not only the time, but also the year, month, zodiac sign, and the location of the planets.
House of Kammerzell (Maison Kammerzell)
Kammerzel House is a favorite place among tourists. The house is located in the very center of Strasbourg and is one of the best examples of half-timbered architecture. The building was built in 1427 with walls of a characteristic style with intricate carvings that appeared in 1589.
Now the ground floor is reserved for a cozy restaurant with a 19th century mural by Leo Schnug and traditional Alsatian cuisine. There is a small hotel on the upper floors.
Address: Place de la Cathédrale
District "Petite France" (La Petite France)
Initially, the area was founded in the 16th - 17th centuries as a place of residence for fishermen, tanners and millers. That is why houses here were not built of stone, as in more prosperous areas, but with wooden (half-timbered) frames.
Previously, Petite France was an unpopular and gloomy area of the city, here fraudsters made their deals and robbers were in full swing.
Now there is no trace of the past relationship - Petite France has become the most beloved and touching corner of Strasbourg. It is practically an entire pedestrian zone with colorful places for photographs.
House of tanners (Maison des Tanneurs)
One of the places in the Petite France area where it is recommended to stay and take a photo is the tanners' house. The typical Strasbourg half-timbered style of the house, decorated with colorful flower pots, creates the right atmosphere to enjoy traditional Alsatian cuisine in the restaurant on the ground floor.
Address: 42, rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, La Petite France
Strasbourg is the seat of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament and the European Court of Human Rights. The buildings of all three political institutions in Europe, located within walking distance from each other, have practically become the symbols of the city.
They stand out against the background of the old part of the city for their modern architecture. The high-tech style perfectly emphasizes the lightness and openness of the European Court building. In the wing-shaped building of the European Parliament, you can learn more about the functions and tasks of this organization.
The European Palace offers visitors two types of excursions: an orientation tour (1 hour long) and a training program (2 hours long). Guided tours are available for groups of more than 15 people by appointment. If there are free places, anyone can join an already formed group.
- Address: 1 Avenue du Président Robert Schuman (European Parliament), 528 Avenue de l'Europe (Council of Europe), Allée des Droits de l'Homme (European Court of Justice)
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri 09:00 - 18:00
- Cost: Free
Bridge of Europe and Bridge of Two Banks (Pont de l'Europe et Passerelle des Deux Rives)
Right on the border with Germany, the Rhine can be crossed over two bridges. The first, the Bridge of Europe, was built back in 1388 to connect Strasbourg with the neighboring city of Kehl. But by the middle of the 19th century, it was in a terrible state.
At the beginning of the third millennium, it was decided to repair the bridge, and build it down the river. pedestrian bridge, called the Bridge of Two Banks. The bridges symbolize the unity and freedom of Europe.
Now city residents and tourists can walk along the pedestrian bridge, crossing the border of two states quite legally and without hindrance. Quiet picturesque parks are located on both sides.
You can get to the Europa Bridge by bus number 21 or by bike, which can be rented in the city.
Address: Avenue Rhin et Danube, Vence
Rhine Kaiser Palace (Palais du Rhin)
The former Kaiser residence is definitely one of the most colorful buildings in Strasbourg. The palace was built at the end of the 19th century for Kaiser Wilhelm I. Today, the palace serves as a perfectly preserved reminder of the Kaiser times, not only outside, but also inside.
An equally magnificent garden adjoins the palace, and in front of the palace itself, on Republic Square, there is a park of the same name, where, in an atmosphere of complete peace, you can have a picnic on a hot afternoon.
- Address: 1, Place de la République
- Opening hours: Mon-Thu 9:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 17:00, Fri 9:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 16:00, Sat-Sun - closed
Rogan's palace (Palais Rohan)
In 1731-1742, according to the project of Roberto de Cotte, the palace-residence of Cardinal de Rogan-Soubiza was built. The bishop was not only the head of the clergy, but also the suzerain of the crown prince, so he ordered to build his palace in the manner of the Parisian royal palaces.
In different eras, the luxurious palace received within its walls King Louis XV and Queen Marie Antoinette, Emperor Napoleon I and his wife Josephine, French King Charles X. In 2009, Angela Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy met here.
Thanks to the whims of Napoleon, the interior of the palace in early XIX century was redesigned, and now the state rooms of the palace are among the most beautiful places in France.
- Address: Place du Chateau, 2
- Price: one day ticket to all museums in the city - 12 Euro (adult), 6 Euro (child)
One of most interesting museums Strasbourg is located under the roof of the Rogan Palace.
It is divided into 2 parts. The first is the restored royal and cardinal chambers with detailed interiors and finishes. The second consists of collections of exhibits of decorative arts and crafts of local craftsmen of the second half of the 17th - mid-19th centuries. A special place is occupied by the collection of old clockwork dolls and mechanisms.
- Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 - 18:00
The Museum of Fine Arts is located on the second floor of the Rogan Palace. Here is a collection of art canvases painted from the Middle Ages up to the second half of the XIX century.
- Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 - 18:00
- Price: 6.5 Euro (adult), 3.5 Euro (child)
The basement and cellars of the Rogan Palace are occupied by an archaeological museum, one of the largest of its kind in France.
The finds presented in the museum were discovered in Alsace and date back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, immersing visitors in the prehistoric period of the region. There are also exhibits over later periods, until the X century A.D.
- Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 - 18:00
- Price: 6.5 Euro (adult), 3.5 Euro (child)
Strasbourg with its rivers, canals, dams, locks invites travelers to explore the cityscapes on the river trams running along the canals of Strasbourg. Currently, guests of the city are offered 6 interesting and informative routes along the Ile River. There are audio guides (with headphones) in 12 languages, incl. and in Russian.
The duration of the excursion, depending on the route chosen, will be from 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes.
- The ticket office and marinas are located in the cathedral square, about 60 meters from the cathedral.
- Price: 9.9 - 15.6 Euro (adult), 6 - 9.05 Euro (children from 4 to 12 years old), free (children under 4 years old).
Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d'Alsac)
You can enjoy Alsatian white wines, recognized as the best in all of France, in the vicinity of Strasbourg. The Alsace Wine Route runs here, stretching 170 km from north to south of the country. Climatic conditions The region, with its dry and warm air, is ideal for vineyards that grow 7 different grape varieties.
Brasserie Kronenbourg
The Kronenburg brewery is one of the largest in Europe and is the leading beer brand in France. It produces almost 10 million hectoliters of beer a year. Visitors to the brewery will be guided through the historic cellars with old wooden barrels, where the history of the brewery began in 1664.
- Address: Boulevard de l'Europe, Obernai Cedex
- Opening hours: Mon-Fri 09:00 - 17:00
- Cost: Free
Vacation with children
Tourists with children can easily find something to their liking. Strasbourg offers such a variety of entertainment that your head will spin. 
In addition to numerous play centers, playgrounds and parks, little travelers can visit the local planetarium. At L'Orangerie Park, children can watch storks and flamingos.
It is worth stopping by the Zoological Museum of Strasbourg, where they will be told about modern flora and fauna, and shown a collection of insects. The small size of the museum will not tire children with a long excursion.
Strasbourg is an ancient city located in the east of France, almost on the border with Germany, the capital of Alsace. He is considered one of the the most beautiful cities Europe: Strasbourg's architectural heritage is a synthesis of two cultures - French and German. Gothic cathedrals, canals, old houses and mansions, narrow streets seem to have descended from illustrations to the book of fairy tales. Its historical center - Grand Ile - is included in the UNESCO list. The city is also famous for the fact that the sessions of the European Parliament are held here.
Strasbourg: general information
Strasbourg, which is home to over 275 thousand people (according to 2013), is located on the Ile River near the left bank of the Rhine. The area where the capital of Alsace is located is mostly flat, its height above sea level is 140 meters. The climate is continental: winters are rather cold, precipitation is frequent, and it is hot here on summer days. In Strasbourg, protected from two sides by mountains, almost never happens strong winds... The area of the city is 78.26 km².
The first Celtic settlements in the vicinity of the current capital of Alsace appeared in 1300 BC. NS. Then the city was called Argentorat. It was conquered by the Romans in the 1st century AD and became their border fortress. Subsequently, the city was conquered first by the Germanic tribes, and then passed to the Franks. During the Middle Ages, it got its current name. After the collapse of the Frankish kingdom, Strasbourg, until the 17th century, was part of the Holy Roman Empire. In 1681, the city became part of the possessions of the French king.
Strasbourg is one of the most picturesque cities in France
The constant change of citizenship has had a significant impact on the architectural appearance and culture of Strasbourg. Quickly recovering from the invasion of another conqueror, today the city has become one of the most picturesque and economically developed cities in France.
How to get there
There is an airport in Strasbourg, but due to the limited number and high cost of flights, many prefer to combine different types of transport. One of the popular options is a flight to Basel, then a bus transfer to Saint-Louis train station, and from there you can take a train to the final point of the route. You can choose an intermediate point of travel to Frankfurt Airport, from where you can get to the place by bus.
Some low cost airlines have flights to Karlsruhe. From this city in South-West Germany, there is a bus service to Baden-Baden Station, where trains leave for Strasbourg. High-speed trains also leave for Strasbourg from Paris, Lyon and Frankfurt.
You can get to the capital of Alsace by car from Paris or Lyon. Please note that most French motorways charge a toll. You can also get to Strasbourg by car from Frankfurt, Stuttgart and Basel.
Strasbourg has access to motorways connecting it to the west (A4), south (A35) and east (A5) Top sights in Strasbourg
The centuries-old history of Strasbourg is rich in events, so there are many interesting places in the city that are worth visiting for tourists. The heart of the city is the Grand Ile Island, connected to the rest of Strasbourg by famous bridges. It is here that the main attractions are located and the most interesting tourist routes pass.
The construction of one of the most magnificent Gothic structures in Europe, Notre Dame de Strasbourg, was completed by 1439. Its 142 meter high tower is the tallest in France. From the observation deck of the cathedral, to which 322 steps lead, opens great view to the surroundings. One of the main adornments of the cathedral, which invariably attracts tourists, is the astronomical clock. On their dial, the planets are located as it was imagined in the Middle Ages. The facade of the cathedral is decorated with hundreds of figures, representing a gigantic painting of medieval themes. The pink sandstone used for the walls of the structure changes color depending on the light. Everyone can visit the cathedral for free.
Address: Place de la Cathedrale.
The 142-meter tower of Notre Dame de Strasbourg is the tallest in France Church of St. Thomas
The Church of St. Thomas, the construction of which was completed in 1521, is Lutheran. This building is considered one of the best architectural works in the Gothic style and the second most important cathedral in Strasbourg. Inside the church is the mausoleum of the outstanding French commander, Maurice of Saxony, created by the court sculptor Louis XV.
St. Thomas Church - Protestant Church, a masterpiece of Gothic art in Alsace St. Paul's Church
The active Protestant Church of St. Paul, located on the island of St. Helena, is not the oldest building in Strasbourg - it was erected at the end of the 19th century in the neo-Gothic style. The height of the church spiers reaches 76 meters; inside the temple you can see magnificent wall paintings and an organ recognized as a historical monument.
Address: Quai Saint Nicolas.
St. Paul's Church - a beautiful neo-gothic building of the late 19th century Church of St. Peter the Young
The Church of Saint-Pierre-le-June, built in the 11th century, is famous primarily for its frescoes and the largest pulpit in Alsace. The stained glass windows and the inner courtyard of the building have been preserved from the time of construction.
Address: 3 Rue de la Nuee Bleue.
The Church of Young Peter is famous for its frescoes, pulpit and old stained-glass windows You can visit every temple in Strasbourg almost at any time, completely free of charge. Access to tourists is usually closed only during Sunday services. But, as a rule, it is forbidden to take pictures in the church, as warned by the announcements. Enjoy the splendor interior decoration, everyone, regardless of religion, can feel the special atmosphere of antiquity.
Kléber Square, located within the boundaries of the Old Town, is the largest and is also considered the central square, as it hosts the most significant events in the city. In particular, it is here that the Christmas tree is installed at Christmas. Along the perimeter of the square are restaurants, galleries, shops and historic buildings.
Kleber Square is the venue for various events and fairs, where the main New Year tree of the city is established Gutenberg Square and Haberdashery Street
The Gutenberg Square, named after the famous inventor of the printing press, is located near Notre Dame de Strasbourg. Until the 18th century, it was the center of the city. There is a monument to the inventor on it. Haberdashery Street runs from the square to the Strasbourg Cathedral. Walking along it, you can admire the old half-timbered houses and buy various souvenirs and products of local artisans.
Place Gutenberg is a few steps from Notre Dame de Strasbourg Brogley Square
Due to its elongated shape, Brogley Square resembles a boulevard and looks very respectable. All buildings and mansions on it were built in the styles of Art Nouveau or Neoclassicism. Among them: the building of the Rhine Opera, the building of the town hall and the Bank of France. There is also a monument to Marshal Leclerc, the commander of the troops that liberated the city from the Nazis.
Brogley Square looks more like a long alley Republic Square
All structures of the Republic Square are striking in their massiveness. The most magnificent of these is the Rhine Palace, crowned with a huge dome. Here you can also see the State Theater and the building of the university library.
Republic Square main building - Rhine Palace Petite France and Covered Bridges
Petite France is considered the quietest and most picturesque corner of Strasbourg. The streets in this area are made up of charming, traditional half-timbered houses - here you can get a memorable trinket or have a coffee. The peculiarities of such houses are skillfully executed stairs, floors that seem to hang one above the other, and roofs with large slopes. The district owes its name to the hospital where syphilis patients were treated. The disease was called in another way French. The hospital no longer exists, but the name remains.
"Petite France" is one of the most beautiful places Strasbourg, pedestrian area You can get to the streets of La Petite France by walking along the Covered Bridges, which used to be part of the defensive structures. Despite the fact that the bridges no longer have a roof, their old name - Les Ponts Couverts - remains. Each of the four massive towers preserved on the bridges has its own name: French, Executioner, Heinrich, Hans von Altheim. For a long period they were used as prisons.
Covered bridges are part of the city's historic fortifications Dam Vauban
The dam, named after its designer, the engineer Vauban, was intended to protect the southern part of the city. The design of the structure made it possible, by closing the arches, to quickly raise the water level in the Ile River. Today, a magnificent view of the city opens from the panoramic platform of the dam.
Address: Place Hans Jean Arp.
The panoramic platform of the dam offers a magnificent view of Strasbourg Rogan Palace
Today, the apartments of the Rogan Palace, erected in the 18th century at the behest of Cardinal A.M. de Rogan-Soubise, house three museums at once - archeology, applied and fine arts. This building is considered a masterpiece of the French Baroque.
Address: 2 - Place du Chateau.
Opening hours of museums: every day, except Tuesday, from 10 to 18 hours.
Tickets: adult - 6 €, reduced price 3 €.
Rogan Palace - a historical monument in Grand Ile, which now houses 3 museums: archaeological, fine and decorative arts museums The Kammerzel House, built in the 15th century, is a mixture of Late Gothic, Half-timbered and Renaissance styles. The old building looks very nice. The facade of the building has 75 windows, skillfully framed with images of various scenes from the Bible, mythological characters, signs of the Zodiac. Today, the old building houses a hotel and a restaurant, the halls of which are decorated in the original style.
Address: 16 - Place de la Cathedrale.
Kammerzel House is a half-timbered building with a beautiful carved facade, built in the 15th century City station
The station building impresses with its unusual design - it features a large glass dome. This is the most important transport hub in France with a modern computer control center. The station hall is equipped with everything you need, its floors are heated.
Address: Place de la Gare.
Strasbourg station building looks like a glass dome Old customs building
Today it houses an art gallery, and in the middle of the 14th century, this building was built to collect customs duties. The original appearance has not been completely preserved. The restoration of the old building, destroyed during the Second World War, was carried out in the 50s of the XX century.
Address: 6 Rue de la Douane.
Nowadays, an art gallery is located on the territory of the former customs. European quarter
The city has been chosen for their headquarters by many European Union organizations - there are more than 20 of them, and all of them are located in the so-called European Quarter. The modern style in which all the buildings of the quarter are built contrasts sharply with the historical appearance of the city center.
The European quarter covers several districts - Robertsau, Wacken and Orangerie Strasbourg museums
There are several museums in Strasbourg, visiting which will help you get better acquainted with the culture, traditions and history of the city.
Historical Museum
The collections of the Historical Museum are on display in a charming 16th century mansion. Here are presented interesting examples of ancient weapons, household items and interior. Among the most valuable exhibits are old books, including the printed Gutenberg Bible.
Address: 2 rue du vieux marche aux poissons.
The Strasbourg Historical Museum is housed in a picturesque 16th century building Alsace Museum
The theme of the museum is the culture and life of Alsace. The interior, typical of the 18th-19th centuries, has been recreated here in open-air houses. Visitors can see the clothes and various household items that were used by the inhabitants of Alsace more than two centuries ago.
Address: 23-25 quai St-Nicolas.
Tickets: adult 6 €, reduced price 3 €.
In the Alsace Museum you can see clothes, dishes and household items that were used in Alsace 100-200 years ago Museum of Notre Dame
The collections of the Notre Dame Museum are dedicated to the arts and crafts of the Middle Ages. Here you can see fine examples of 15th century Rhine art: paintings, sculptures, stained glass windows. Among the copies of works by I. Strigel, G. Baldung presented in the museum, there are magnificent still lifes by S. Stoskopff.
Address: 3 place du chateau.
Tickets: adult 6 €, reduced price 3 €.
In the Notre Dame Museum you can see works of art from the Middle Ages Modern Art Museum
The Museum of Modern Art operating in the city is one of the largest such institutions in France. Its cube-shaped glass building looks very original. His collections are based on a donated collection of artwork from a local collector. Today the museum displays about 19 thousand works.
Address: 1 place Hans Jean Arp.
Tickets: adult 7 €, concessional 3.5 €.
The building of the Museum of Modern Art looks like a glass cube and looks very original. All museums in Strasbourg are open daily, except Tuesday, from 10 am to 6 pm. You can visit them all with a single ticket: 1 day - 10 €, concessionary - 5 €, 3 days - 15 €, reduced 10 €. The first Sunday of the month, admission to all museums is free.
On tourist map Strasbourg is marked with all the main attractions of the city Strasbourg at different times of the year
Strasbourg is beautiful at any time of the year. The peak of attendance is observed from May to September - at this time the weather is wonderful here, it rarely rains. Summer in the capital of Alsace is a great time to take walks, sightseeing, or sit with a glass of wine or a frothy drink on the outdoor terraces of restaurants and cafes. Good weather ideal for visiting the Botanical Garden, where thousands of plant species are placed on an area of 3.5 hectares, as well as a planetarium building.
Visiting Strasbourg from the end of November until the end of the year, you can get to the traditional fair, timed to coincide with the celebration of Christmas. The streets of the city at this time are shining with many lights, it becomes very noisy and fun, it smells of baked goods and mulled wine, and street performers' performances are organized.
Strasbourg has thousands of lights on Christmas Day and crowds of tourists fill the streets The disadvantage of visiting Strasbourg during these periods is the large influx of guests. In addition, August is the traditional holiday month for most French people, so many favorite places will be closed.
For those who do not like noisy crowds, it is better to visit the city in autumn. The tourist flow at this time is significantly thinning, the weather is still warm, and there are many fruits and vegetables on the market. The end of October is the time for the traditional Strasbourg wine salon. Here, the best French winemakers introduce their products - you can taste them for free or buy in any quantity. The salon, which can be visited at the Parc des expositions du Wacken, also takes place in February or April.
Choosing the spring months to travel to Strasbourg is a great idea. At this time, it is very beautiful here: magnolias, chestnuts and lilacs bloom, tulips and daffodils bloom in parks and gardens. By the end of May, rose bushes bloom. The air is filled with delicious aromas.
Traveling with children
The climate, attractions and infrastructure of Strasbourg make the city an ideal destination for family vacation... When visiting it with children, you should pay attention to the following places:
Photo gallery: places for families with children in Strasbourg
La Cure Gourmande Alpes is a real paradise for those with a sweet tooth Théâtre Jeune Public is the only theater in Strasbourg where performances for children and teenagers take place The Tomi Ungerer Museum displays over 11 thousand drawingsHow many days is it worth the trip
The main attractions of Strasbourg can be seen in 1-2 days. Some of the most visited sites in the city are the Petite France district, as well as the Strasbourg Cathedral. Those who want to stay in the city longer should take care of booking rooms in one of the many hotels. Many hotels and hostels are located in the Old Town. The cost of living in them starts from 75 euros. More budget options can be found closer to the outskirts.
Since the headquarters of many international organizations are located on the territory of Strasbourg, the provision of security and order is located here at high level... It is enough to follow simple rules of conduct - not to demonstrate large sums, to keep an eye on your wallets and pockets, not to visit dangerous areas (industrial and microdistricts located on the outskirts of the city). You should always carry your passport with you and present it at the first request of a law enforcement official.
It is convenient to get around the city by bus or tram, having bought a single ticket, which is sold at any newspaper or tobacco kiosk or in a special machine at the bus stop. Its cost will be about 4 euros. It is also convenient to rent a bicycle - it will cost a vacationer about 7-10 euros. Getting around by car in the center is quite difficult - there are often traffic jams, and most of the streets here are pedestrianized.
This city was divided between France and Germany for several centuries. Today it has turned into one of administrative centers The European Union, as well as the intellectual center of France, tk. here is the University of Strasbourg.
Strasbourg has a very rich history... Here you can see ancient temples of the era Early middle ages XII century, half-timbered houses, many unique museums, beautiful gardens and parks, historical monuments etc.
We bring to your attention short description sights of Strasbourg with a photo and we certainly wish to visit this beautiful city to see its splendor with our own eyes. What can you see in Strasbourg?
Attractions of Strasbourg on the map
This is the name of the romantic old quarter of Strasbourg, which today is on the famous UNESCO List, as cultural heritage humanity. The first mention of Little France was recorded in the 16th century.
In those distant times, simple artisans lived here with their families. Many were engaged in leather dressing, so for decades there was an eerie smell in the block. Today Petite France is a beautiful part of Strasbourg, adored by tourists.
This square is located in the historic quarter of the city. It often hosts various events, state and citywide celebrations, ceremonies, national holidays, etc.
The square bears the name famous resident Strasbourg, General Kleber, who participated in the wars on the side of Napoleon. It is his sculpture that stands in the center of the square. And around there are administrative mansions and excellent restaurants with good food.
This Catholic cathedral began to be built in the 11th century. In its place there used to be an ancient Roman sanctuary. Over the course of hundreds of years, the temple has been repeatedly reconstructed and restored: from Romanesque to Gothic architectural style.
Most of all, tourists like the astronomical clock installed here in the XIV century. On the watch dial, you can see the orbits of the planets with the errors that medieval astronomers made in the distant past.
Exactly this famous building in Strasbourg, which is definitely worth seeing. It was built at the beginning of the 15th century using the half-timbered principle. Later it was rebuilt several times until it received an elaborately carved facade.
The façade of the Kammerzel house has 75 windows and many carvings depicting biblical fairytale characters, signs of the Zodiac, famous musicians of those distant times, as well as female images of Faith, Hope and Love.
Opposite the cathedral is another attraction of Strasbourg and all of France - Gothenberg Square. This man made the city famous throughout the world by inventing a typesetting font. Since then, the principle of printing has not changed.
It happened in the middle of the 15th century, and the Bible became the first printed book. On the square stands a statue of Gothenberg, who is holding a large sheet of paper in his hands. If you look closely, you can see that this is one of the pages of the Bible.
This is one of the most famous historical landmarks of Strasbourg, architectural monument baroque. The palace houses three museums of Strasbourg: archaeological (located in the basement), decorative and fine arts.
The palace was built on the site of the archbishop's residence in the first half of the 18th century at the direction of the local Cardinal Rogan. King Louis XV of France stayed here, there was Napoleon I with his wife Josephine and other famous and great people.
This museum is housed in a beautiful 16th century mansion, which until then had been a slaughterhouse for several hundred years. Only at the beginning of the 20th century, at the direction of the city authorities, the building was given for the needs of the museum.
Strasbourg is a very old city and at the same time very beautiful. It is not for nothing that its entire center, located on an island on the Ile River, is included in its entirety in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Ile River is a tributary of the Rhine, and the border with Germany is only 3 km from Strasbourg. The border location of the city determined its appearance. Throughout its history, the city often passed from Germany to France and vice versa, and absorbed all the best from these countries - German accuracy and French charm, Catholicism and Protestantism.
Many have probably heard that the European Parliament sits in Strasbourg and the Strasbourg Court of Human Rights is located. For these power structures, an ultra-modern quarter was built on the outskirts of the city. You can even visit the building of the European Parliament, but due to the limited time we have seen only the sights of the historic center of Strasbourg.
It is very easy to do this on foot, as it takes only 15 minutes to cross the island from one end to the other. But in no case should you rush. An amazing collection of architectural masterpieces is concentrated on the island. Among them are the Cathedral, Covered Bridges, Roan Palace and other vivid testimonies of the secular and spiritual life of the city with more than two thousand years of history.
Grand Rue and Gutenberg Square
First of all, we went to the Strasbourg Cathedral. He is the heart of the city. On the way, we walked along the Grand Rue, in many French cities there is a street with such an uncomplicated name. We looked at the magnificent half-timbered houses.
Grand rue
Most streets in historic center Strasbourg is pedestrian and narrow, modern car traffic has nothing to do on such streets, you need to walk along them and enjoy a walk, looking at old houses and very modern, but at the same time harmoniously decorated shop windows.
Textured door on Grand Rue Taking pictures of Strasbourg is difficult, since the streets are very narrow, there is absolutely nowhere to go. Therefore, the house can only be captured in parts, alas. There are many houses in Strasbourg with such intricate bay windows, this is just one of them for example.
Bay window on the same house The beams of many half-timbered houses are very old and worn. Strasbourg, of course, suffered in the Second World War, but to a much lesser extent than the same Cologne, Dresden or Warsaw.
Half-timbered houses Plants and flowers make the houses especially picturesque.
House in Strasbourg Alsace is generally a very floral place.
Alsace flowers We crossed the Gutenberg square. He invented the method of typing using typesetting. In 1455, the first printed Bible was published in Strasbourg. The invention of printing contributed to the prosperity of Strasbourg. Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, the city was the capital of printing, playing a decisive role in promoting the ideas of the Reformation.
Monument to Gutenberg on Gutenberg Square Near the monument to Gutenberg is an old children's carousel, almost the same we saw in Avignon at the beginning of ours.
Carousel on Gutenberg Square The cathedral square is adorned with the Kammerzel house with its seventy-five carved windows. This is the largest and most beautiful house of all half-timbered buildings in Strasbourg. There is a restaurant there, later we had dinner there.
Kammersel House Strasbourg Cathedral
Strasbourg Cathedral is simply huge, before the cathedrals were completed in and, the Cathedral of Strasbourg was for more than 200 years the tallest cathedral in the entire Christian world. It was built, as it should be, over two and a half centuries, from 1176 to 1439. The finishing was done even longer.
It is not possible to photograph it in its entirety with my camera, so for clarity, I stole a photo of the general view of the cathedral from the Wikipedia site. Here it is photographed in the rays of the sun and therefore has a slightly yellowish tint, in fact it is pink, I even thought at first that the cathedral was made of granite, but no, it turns out that it was built of local pink sandstone.
Strasbourg Cathedral, general form western façade The following photos are mine and reflect the real color of the cathedral better. Compared with Cologne cathedral Strasbourg looks almost clean, the dust has not eaten into it for centuries. By the way, in Strasbourg, for some reason, there are a lot of gypsy beggars. There they are sitting on the porch just under the sculptures of Virtues that overcome vices.
Side portal of Strasbourg Cathedral The stone carving is, of course, colossal.
Central portal - The Passion of Christ The interior of the cathedral is no less interesting than its intricate façade.
Strasbourg Cathedral 
Chair in 1485 by Hans Himmer 
The lower part of the chair. When visiting the cathedral, it is immediately striking that most of the original stained-glass windows have been preserved in it. The oldest stained-glass windows of the 13th century consistently depict the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire of the German nation
Stained glass Most of all visitors to the cathedral, of course, are attracted by the astronomical clock. A whole team of Swiss watchmakers took part in the creation of these wonderful watches, they finished their work in 1570. The clock shows not only the time, but also the day, month, year, zodiac sign, moon phase, position of the planets and some astronomical data (for example, the clock accurately predicted the lunar eclipse on March 28, 2006). Every 15 minutes a mini show of moving figures starts, but the most complete show starts once a day at 12-30.
Astronomical clock with moving figures I was struck by the trick with paid lighting of some parts of the cathedral, something I have never seen before. For example, to get a better look at the astronomical clock, you need to put a 20 cent coin into a special apparatus and the light turns on. In summer, the cathedral is quite light, but in winter you will definitely have to fork out.
In general, the European economy amazes me, in the winter we visited, they turned off the lights altogether immediately after the end of the service, this despite the fact that we paid for the ticket, here are misers.
Theatrical performance at the walls of the cathedral
We got to the whole performance at the walls of the cathedral quite by accident. At first it seemed to us that now there would be a divorce of the guard, because the music began to play, the flag was carried out on the pillow, the garments of the guard, of course, raised some doubts.
But what began later was simply enchanting and very funny, the artists played great, despite the heat and their not summer clothes.
Theater show at the walls of the cathedral At the walls of Stasburg Cathedral, they raised the English flag with jokes and jokes, and later the English queen herself arrived in a rare car. The action took place on English language.
Artist The queen took a tea set from her purse and drank her five-hour tea, as befits a queen, said the speech from the throne and washed it down with champagne, we laughed for about 40 minutes, so comically all these simple actions were done.
The officer pours the queen a cup of tea Roan Palace and houses along Safyanova Street
The Roan Palace is located opposite one of the cathedral's facades. Cardinals from the Roan family lived in the palace at one time, as many as 4 generations. Now there are three museums within its walls - the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Not only the kings of Europe imitated Versailles, the cardinals also built themselves a palace in the spirit of Versailles, where they received Louis XV and Marie Antoinette.
Roan Palace 
Gothic garden of the 13th century, planned according to the prescriptions of Albert the Great On Safyanovaya Street, the former Sapozhnikov Street, every house can be photographed. The photo below is a house with carved beams.
Many windows are decorated with flowers, restaurants and cafes are located in almost all buildings on the ground floors.
Half-timbered houses on Safyanova street Again a house with a bay window and flowers.
Half-timbered house on Safyanova street 
Heat in Strasbourg Along the most picturesque embankment, we headed to the Petite France region.
Strasbourg embankment Petite France
The Petite France area is probably the nicest in all of Strasbourg. The name is very romantic until you read the guidebook. In fact, a hospital was located in the area, in which the "French disease" or syphilis was treated, which spread at the end of the 16th century through the fault of soldiers of the army of Francis I. The hospital no longer exists, only the name remains, which this old quarter cut by canals bears to this day tanners.
Petite France Quarter Numerous river trams run along the river, as there is a lot to see along the embankments. Ahead there is a drawbridge. In the photo below, the bridge has already been raised for the passage of one of the trams.
Cozy cafes are located throughout the city center Classic meat tartare
We dined at Kammerzel's house near Strasbourg Cathedral. Dad ordered cabbage with sausages, me a salad, and Pasha ordered fries with meat, it seemed you couldn't think of a more conservative dish, but it was with this dish that we got into trouble. The meat turned out to be just raw minced meat, it never crossed my mind that you can eat and even serve raw minced meat in restaurants.
Classic meat tartare The menu was in English and did not bode well, there was definitely the word meat and something about sauce. Now I google it and it turns out that there is French meat tartare and there is raw minced meat, so beware of tartare in France.
Covered bridges
This is another of most picturesque places Strasbourg.
After dinner, at dusk, we went to the Covered Bridges and the Vauban Dam. Previously, there were 24 such towers on the river, now only 3. The towers were built from 1230 to 1250 for the defense of the city. Previously, the bridges between the towers were fortified structures like the Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence.
Medieval towers left over from city fortifications 
Covered bridges opposite the towers At about 10 pm we went to look for a tram stop and saw a disco near the walls of the Church of St. Thomas. How can people want to dance when it's +39?
Disco at the Church of St. Thomas And in Strasbourg, the fun continued, an evening light show was shown at the Strasbourg Cathedral, musicians walked through the streets of the city, and theater performances were performed in the squares. Crowds of people continued to float through the streets of the red-hot city.
Despite the terrible heat, we really liked Strasbourg, a very picturesque city. I would also like to see the Orangery Park, but we no longer had any energy left, and the time was late. If you have a whole day to Strasbourg, then you can probably manage to cover all the sights of Strasbourg: the city center, the Orangerie Park and the European Quarter. It would be nice to come to Strasbourg before Christmas, they say one of the best Christmas markets in Europe operates there.
On this our journey almost ended, the next day we went to Travemunde to sit there on
Still tormented by questions: what to do in Strasbourg and what to see here? We will find a use for this city other than submitting an application to the Strasbourg Court of Human Rights. You can go to Strasbourg from Paris and for 1 day. The journey takes less than 2 hours. Find train tickets to Strasbrug here.
View the Cathedral
The North Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral is one of the city's main attractions. This is a beautiful Gothic church in the original pink-brown color with only one tower. Notre Dame is beautiful itself, and the area around it is wonderful. But go inside and go deeper, there you will find an old clock that shows not only the time, but also the month, year, zodiac sign, the location of the planets, and a small show every half hour.
We also advise you to go up to the observation deck of the Cathedral. A very good view of Strasbourg opens up from here. Just remember. That you have to climb on foot. The entrance to the ascent is from the right side of the cathedral.
Ride the canals on a river tram
The river tram in Strasbourg practically replaces the city tour. You will sail along the canals and see almost all the main attractions of the capital of the Alsace region. There is also an audio guide in Russian. Which is composed extremely well and interestingly, although not without inaccuracies. In addition, during the tour you will find several surprises: locks and movable bridges.
For more information on the excursion, read "Strasbourg River Tram Ride."
Taste local cuisine
Strasbourg is an amazing melting pot of different cultures. This can be seen in the appearance of the city, but also noticeable in its cuisine. For example, choucrut is considered the main Alsatian dish. Shukrut is fried sauerkraut with different types of meat. This dish is more German and served with beer. V good restaurant it is better to take one for two, otherwise, you will not cope. Foie Gras and sweet white wine are also inventions of the people of Strasbourg, and we recommend that you try them.
Read more about Alsatian cuisine in our article.
Have a coffee or dinner in Petite France
Petite France is the most beautiful area of the city. It may not be the most pleasant story connected with it, but now it is very pleasant to stop or take a walk here. Choose a cafe overlooking the canal and enjoy the beauty around!
Walk from France to Germany and back
Strasbourg is located right on the border with Germany. They even built a pedestrian bridge across the Rhine, connecting the two states. Residents of the city and tourists love to stroll through it, quite legally violating the border. In addition, there are parks on both sides, and on the German side there is a small cozy town of Kehl.
It is better to get to the Europa Bridge by bike, which can be rented, or by bus number 21.
Have a picnic in the Greenhouse
Strasbourg is rich in its parks. But the favorite among the inhabitants of the city is the Orangerie. It was built by order of Napoleon for his wife - Josephine. She never stopped here, but the park remained for the Strasbourg people. There is a beautiful landscape architecture and something is blooming all the time. And having a picnic in this garden is a pleasure.
View the list of events
Strasbourg is one of the three capitals of the European Union. In honor of this and not only, a lot of interesting events are held here. The city once opened the main Christmas markets, the fountain festival, the street theater festival and much more. Before traveling to Strasbourg, it is better to get acquainted if there is anything interesting today.
Settle in the old part of the city
Live in the very center of the city - on the island. It can be more expensive than in other parts of Strasbourg, but much more pleasant. The Old Town is not only an amazing architectural style, but also a garden city. Magnolias and flower beds bloom here, and residents decorate their windows and balconies with flowers. This is one of the most picturesque corners of France.
Visit one of the museums in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is rich in its museums. The best of them are the Museum of the History of the City, the Museum of Alsace and the Museum of Modern Art. Here are collected quite interesting collections and a lot of interactive things. This business will not take much time, but it will leave pleasant sensations.
Enjoy your stay in Strasbourg!
Europe has its own capital. It is located in the prefecture of the Bas-Rhine department and at the same time is the historical capital of French Alsace. it Strasbourg.
It is here that such European institutions as Council of Europe(since 1949), European Parliament(since 1979) and European Court of Human Rights... Strasbourg was founded in the 13th century and covers an area of 78 sq. km. Now they live here about 300 thousand human.
The "main" European city in many of its features resembles the famous French pastries - it is so diverse, cunningly wise and touristy delicious.
Pages of history
Here Johann Gutenberg invented and created printing press, a Paracelsus treated the sick and beggars free of charge long before the advent of health insurance.
Studied at the University of Strasbourg Goethe, and Pasteur selflessly pasteurized champagne and cognacs.
From Rogan's palace went to the battle at Austerlitz in love with Josephine Bonaparte, in the church of St. Thomas the incomparable Mozart gave his concerts. And the famous "Marseillaise" Roger de Lisle wrote not at all in Marseille, but here, in Strasbourg.
The history of the city is rich and interesting. And that's why UNESCO took Strasbourg under his wing.
In fact, this is the entire center, which is Big Island ... The island is indented along and across the channels of the Il River.
This is the concentration of almost all of the most significant sights of Strasbourg: the quarter "Petite France", covered bridges with towers, palaces and museums. The spire rises here Cathedral.
What must be seen in Strasbourg?
Ponts couverts or Covered bridges- in the past, part of the city fortifications. Panoramas of Strasbourg with views of covered bridges with watchtowers, the most postcard and replicated place in the city.
At first, there was a wooden roof over the bridges, which was dismantled after the loss of the defensive significance of these structures. And the bridges themselves have since been rebuilt.
Now they are completely stone, but the name stuck and remained. Now there are four square towers in this place, the bases of the two central ones are made in the form of bastion fortifications.
If you wish to receive your own "postcard", then it is best to do it from the observation deck Barrage vauban - Vauban dams... There is a wonderful view of the bridges and the entire city center from there.
Strasbourg Cathedral Notre Dame
Famous writers and poets expressed their admiration for this masterpiece of architecture in different ways. Goethe called the cathedral "The exalted tree of God" and every day, in order to overcome his fears, he climbed his bell tower. Goethe spoke of the highest temple in those days as a kind of "giant delicate miracle."
The highest among all the temples in the world is a building with a high 142 meters the spire is now the sixth, and for several centuries the cathedral was the highest example of spiritual architecture.
The temple owes its unique pink hue to sandstone from the Vosges quarry located nearby. The spire of the cathedral is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Strasbourg in France.
Come see the cathedral at sunset time. At this time, the temple looks most impressive, especially its western facade. It is literally "covered" with thousands of stone ornaments and sculptures.
The cathedral is open to visitors on weekdays from 7 to 19 hours with a one-hour break. Opening hours on Sunday - from 12 to 18... You can climb to the observation deck of the tower from 9 to 17 on summer days and from 10 o'clock in winter. The cost of tickets for the observation deck - 4.6 euros, students and children - 2.3 euros.
Rogan's palace
Palais rohan - Rogan's palace- a wonderful architectural monument in the Baroque style. Built in 1731-1742 g. designed by Robert de Cotte.
The palace is home to three large and important museums in Strasbourg. Exhibits are located in the basement archaeological Museum, and the top three occupy Museum of Applied and Museum of Fine Arts.
The walls of the Rogan Palace literally breathe history. V different time it was visited by King Louis XV and Queen Marie Antoinette, Emperor Napoleon I and both of his wives, the French king Charles H. During the German rule, the building housed various imperial museums and an art gallery.
During the Second World War, Palais Rohan was badly damaged and restoration work lasted for several decades. The work was completed only in the 90s of the last century.
Do you know what to see first in Milan? After all, even a week is not enough to get around all the sights of Milan.
About the most interesting places Read more about Florence here. In terms of the number of attractions, Florence is not inferior to Milan.
Museum of Fine Arts
The museum was founded in 1973. In 1998 he moved to a new building in the Rogan Palace. It contains a large collection of works of art, from the Impressionist era (from 1870) to the present day.
Painting, graphics, sculpture and multimedia art are also on display at the museum's permanent international exhibitions. It has its own library, cinema and cafe.
Working hours:
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday - from 11 am to 7 pm
- Thursday - from 12 to 22
- Sunday - from 10 am to 6 pm
Kammerzel House
Maison kammerzell - Kammerzel's house- one of the best examples of half-timbered architecture. Located in the old town, in the very center.
There was a shop in its stone basements as early as the 15th century, and half-timbered walls with intricate carvings appeared in 1589. Now there is a restaurant in the basement of the building, and a small hotel is located on the upper floors.
Alsace Museum
On embankment of St. Nicholas(Quai saint-Nicolas, 23-25) located Alsace Museum... In the exposition of the reconstructed old dwellings, one can get acquainted with the traditional Alsatian way of life and see the interiors that at different times were characteristic of the inhabitants of the Vosges valleys, agricultural and wine-growing regions, and see the workshops of artisans.
European institutions
Building European institutions located in Strasbourg, apart from their political significance, are also interesting for their architecture and have cultural significance. In each of them, you can sign up for an excursion, only this must be done in advance.
Address of the European Court of Human Rights: Boulevard Leblois, 1; 67000, Strasbourg, France.
Strasbourg gastronomic attractions
It is worth visiting the capital of Europe in order to appreciate its unique and inimitable gastronomy. French sophistication, combined with German quality, has given birth to delicious cuisine on the continent.
As a result, the streets of Strasbourg were crowded with restaurants (here they are called winstrubs), like the parliament of the euro with deputies.
The main "folk" dishes in Strasbourg are French foie gras, wonderful German fried sausages, sauerkraut with meat - shukrut.
And if all this is "right" washed down with Alsatian wine, then your belly will never play the "Marseillaise". Alsatian white wines are recognized as the best in all of France. They wonderfully go with real royal delicacies, which Strasbourg is also famous for.
If time is short and you have no time for restaurant gatherings, it will help to see the city quickly and in an unusual atmosphere. river tram ... And you will sail from dam to dam, seeing the main attractions in turn.
There are many dams in Strasbourg due to elevation differences. Once it was used to build mills, but now these mills are used ... as a chic, colorful hotel.
Strasbourg Christmas
December Rhine glistens coldly with steel. But from the very beginning of the month, reflections of bright lights and fireworks begin to warm it.
It is in the city that the Christmas markets begin, which amaze with their scale even many travelers who have seen them. This fair action is almost four and a half centuries old. The fairs occupy the entire center with their tents and stages and fill the air with the smells of spices and hot wine.
And on Kleber square a huge "Eurostolichny" tree is set up every year.
And on this page read about the most famous places Nice.
At this address http://euro-tour.net/germany/shopping-v-germanii/chto-iz-ger.html see tips for choosing souvenirs in Germany.
Photos of some landmarks of Strasbourg
But it does not matter at all at what time of the year fate or chance will throw you into this cocktail city of the interweaving of cultural and historical sights inherent in two countries at once - France and Germany.
Here you can always get real pleasure, just wandering along the narrow streets, old bridges thrown across the Rhine, sailing along the picturesque canals. And deeply "inhale the smells" of European history.
