Welcome in Strasbourg!
For its history, way of life and food, Strasbourg is definitely worth a visit.
First take a stroll in old Strasbourg, known as the “Grande Ile”. Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, this part of the city comprises some wonderful monuments, as well as riverbanks, bridges, squares and alleyways, full of history and culture. Notre-Dame cathedral (a marvel of Gothic art) and the church of Saint Thomas are must-sees on your route. Petite France is the most picturesque district in old Strasbourg, with its half-timbered houses with huge courtyards within, and large painted roofs.
And then there is European Strasbourg to discover. Its location means that it was chosen as the headquarters of several European institutions. This choice gave rise to a few gems of contemporary architecture: the Council of Europe, the Palace of Human Rights and the European Parliament.
And if you like to eat well, you’re spoiled for choice in Strasbourg. Enjoy lunch in a “Winstub”, which has a great atmosphere. Foie gras and choucroute, the two highlights of Alsatian gastronomy, await you. But we shouldn’t forget to mention the tarte flambée, bilberry, plum and pear tarts, as well as its highly unusual cheese tart and the famous kougelhopf.
In Alsace, wine (Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Tokay, Pinot Gris, Sylvaner, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir) co-exists alongside high quality beers. And then there are the clear fruit eaux de vie, which are a great way to bring the meal to a close. These include marc de Gewurztraminer and the wonderful framboise (raspberry), and there is a large range of options. To help you digest, we suggest you take a short siesta on the banks of the Ill!