Free walking tours in Strasbourg and what to see

Must-sees

The centre of Strasbourg is the Grande Île, an island encircled by the arms of the River Ill and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On it stands the pink sandstone cathedral of Notre-Dame, with its Gothic façade, single spire and the astronomical clock inside. You can climb to the platform to see the rooftops and, on clear days, the Black Forest. Next to the cathedral is the Palais Rohan, home to several of the city’s museums.

Petite France is the old quarter of millers, fishermen and tanners, with half-timbered houses reflected in the canals. At its end are the Ponts Couverts and the Barrage Vauban, with a terrace overlooking the medieval towers. Off the island, the Neustadt shows the city built in the German era, with wide avenues and monumental buildings. Further north lie the European quarter, with the European Parliament, and the Parc de l’Orangerie.

Free tours and guided visits

There is a free walking tour of the centre covering the cathedral, the Grande Île and Petite France, and at Christmas another one focused on the Christmas markets. If you prefer to go at your own pace, you can book a private tour of the city. Strasbourg is also a good base for day trips: there are outings to the Alsace wine villages, others that add Haut-Koenigsbourg castle and, in the Christmas season, routes around the region’s markets.

How long to spend

A full day is enough for the cathedral, Petite France and a boat trip on the canals. With two days you can go into the museums of the Palais Rohan, explore the Neustadt and visit the European quarter. If you add a third day, spend it on a trip to the villages of Alsace. In December the city fills up for the Christmas markets, so book early.

Where to stay

The most convenient place to stay is on the Grande Île, near the cathedral or Petite France, where there are hotels in old houses and everything is within walking distance. The station area has more choice and direct tram and regional train links, practical if you plan day trips. The Neustadt and the districts near the centre are quieter and still within easy walking distance.