Strasbourg is an ideal weekend getaway. While Christmas is one of the best times to discover the city's enchanting atmosphere, it's really a year-round pleasure to stroll through the Alsatian capital, where many of the city's districts have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. The typical Alsatian architecture, the rich heritage, the boutiques, the strolls along the Ill and Rhine rivers, the generous gastronomy - there's so much to do, you'll need a certain amount of organization to prepare a program that's just right for you. The Petit Futé will help you enrich your weekend in Strasbourg, one of France's top 10 weekend destinations. It could even take you to the splendid surrounding villages.
Day 1: Grande Île, Maison Kamerzell, boat trip, Janus Fountain...
Saturday morning:
Head for the Grande Île, the historic part of town, as soon as you arrive. This pedestrian-only section leads through a maze of narrow streets and alleys. You can book a guided tour of the Grande Île and Strasbourg's must-see sights right here : the cathedral, for example, is a must-see in Strasbourg, waiting to reveal its incredible Gothic architecture in pink Vosges sandstone. Those who wish can climb up to the platform to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city and its surroundings. The Palais Rohan is just a stone's throw from the cathedral. Classical in style, museum lovers will be delighted to learn that it houses the Musée archéologique, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and the Musée des Arts décoratifs. At lunchtime, take a break to recharge your batteries at the ornate Renaissance-style Maison Kammerzell. This is one of the most beautiful brasseries in the world. A prime address for trying dishes emblematic of Alsatian gastronomy.
Saturday afternoon:
The afternoon begins with a boat trip on the Ill , which you can book in just a few clicks here. A peaceful way to contemplate Strasbourg's architectural wonders, from Petite France to the European Quarter, via the Neustadt, the imperial district. An audioguide allows you to learn more about the city's history. A great idea for an activity in one of the best destinations for an EVJF. As Strasbourg is one of Europe's capital cities, it's always worth taking part in a tour of the European Quarter. The architecture of certain monuments, such as the European Parliament, is well worth a visit. Visits are also available to some institutions to learn more about their workings and the history of Europe: go here to book your visit ! After that, it's off to the Fontaine de Janus, one of Alsace's most unusual landmarks. It's the perfect place to take a selfie and send it to friends and family. It features a sculpture by Strasbourg artist Tomi Ungerer and a brick aqueduct symbolizing the city's Roman origins.
Saturday evening:
Strasbourg is a culturally vibrant city. You can, of course, choose to relax and simply chat over a good beer in a brasserie in the historic part of town. Or maybe you'd rather enjoy a sauerkraut in a winstub. Or keep an eye on the current music venues to catch a concert. Theater lovers will be delighted by the Théâtre alsacien de Strasbourg or the Théâtre de la Choucrouterie, a temple of popular satire.
Day 2: Petite France, Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Neustadt, Château Vodou...
Sunday morning:
Sunday begins with a stroll through the Petite France district, Strasbourg's Little Venice: we recommend you book your guided tourhere . You'll discover a picturesque district brimming with architectural treasures, with half-timbered houses - especially those on rue du Bain-aux-Plantes - the Ponts Couverts and the Vauban dam. Take a stroll along the banks of the Ill and let yourself be photographed. Before heading off to the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain. It houses a formidable collection of works dating from the 1870s to the present day. Among the artists represented: Ernst, Kandinsky, Buren and Sarkis.
Sunday afternoon:
After lunch, off to the Neustadt, another of Strasbourg's Unesco World Heritage districts. It features wide tree-lined avenues, majestic squares, parks and gardens. This district, built by the German Empire, catches the eye with its various architectural styles, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, neo-Gothic, Rococo, Haussmannian and neo-Renaissance. We continue with a visit to an unusual museum in Strasbourg. The Château Vodou is an atypical place, bringing together the world's largest private collection of West African Vodou objects. The more than 1,400 objects on display have all been used in religious practices! Visitors who have had the good sense to wait for a long weekend to visit Strasbourg can round off the day by taking a short break in the Parc de l'Orangerie. This English-style park has play areas for children. All of which makes Strasbourg one of the top 5 cities in France to visit this autumn.
Day 3: Andlau, Hunspach
Monday morning:
While Strasbourg is a sublime city and one of Alsace's most beautiful towns and villages to visit, you can also take advantage of an extended weekend to discover other Bas-Rhin wonders by booking, for example this day trip to the medieval villages around Strasbourg. Alsace is renowned for its sumptuous villages and bucolic natural landscapes. Just 30 minutes away by car, the village of Andlau is a lovely stop-off point. Here you'll find Renaissance stone and half-timbered houses, the charming Saints-Pierre-et-Paul abbey church with its remarkable Romanesque features, and two castles that are a must-see: Haut-Andlau and Spesbourg. The surrounding countryside is rolling and verdant, with vineyards and forests.
Monday afternoon:
Just over an hour's drive north, another wonderful village awaits visitors. Hunspach, in the Wissembourg region, stands out from other Alsatian villages for its abundance of white-fronted, timber-framed houses. Immaculate facades that contrast with the colors of other villages. Take the time to stroll the streets, visit the Reformed church and the town hall, one of the few timber -framed buildings in France. And don't forget the pendulum fountains, an integral part of the heritage of this village, which has been awarded the Plus Beaux Villages de France label and was voted Village Préféré des Français in 2020. It's one of the must-sees in Alsace. The perfect end to an exciting weekend in and around Strasbourg.
Where to stay in Strasbourg?
Strasbourg is a destination in eastern France with much to offer in terms of architecture and culture. It offers a range of accommodation options. Here's a selection of three hotels that might suit you.
- For French charm
The Hotel Villa d'Est offers you the chance to put down your suitcases in an elegant room, complete with fine fabrics and furnishings. Breakfast is served in the 18th-century dining room. There are also areas dedicated to relaxation, with cardio-training machines, sauna and massage rooms. Click here to book your room.
- For the view
Wake up to a view of the steeple of Strasbourg's magnificent cathedral? You can do just that by bookinga room at the Hôtel Suisse here . The hotel is warm and welcoming, well located and decorated in a traditional style. Served in the dining room or on the terrace when the weather's nice, the breakfast includes delicious Alsatian viennoiseries.
- A soothing setting
Located a little way from the town center, the Comfort Hôtel Montagne Verte features simple, functional rooms. The hotel is located on the banks of the River Ill, in the middle of a green setting with a shaded terrace. During your stay, you can relax with a quiet book in the lounge, or enjoy meals in the restaurant. The city center is within easy reach by streetcar. For hotel rates and availability, click here!
What to do during a romantic weekend in Strasbourg?
Strasbourg is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend away. A stroll through the Petite France district immediately immerses you in a romantic atmosphere. Another idea is to spend an afternoon at the Bains municipaux, enjoying the pools located in the heart of a magnificent historic building. There's also a wellness area with sauna, salt grotto, Nordic bath and Jacuzzi. Is the weather cooperating? Why not rent an electric boat and cruise the Ill? You can also do the unusual and see the world's oldest wine in a barrel at the Cave historique des Hospices de Strasbourg.
What to do on a family weekend in Strasbourg?
There's plenty to do on a family weekend in Strasbourg! During a boat trip on the River Ill, children can enjoy special commentaries. The tourist office also offers a rally to discover the city and its treasures. Just ask for the Familicitirali. Parents can take advantage of the opportunity to find out about guided tours suitable for children. Even the youngest visitors love to wander around the museum! During a weekend in Strasbourg, you should introduce them to the Musée alsacien. It's a wonderful showcase of traditional Alsatian life from the 17th to the 20th century, with costumes, everyday objects, crafts, toys and ceramics. And to put stars in their eyes, there's nothing better than taking them to Strasbourg for Christmas. The decorations are magnificent and the Christmas market looks like something out of a fairytale.
What's a free weekend in Strasbourg?
Strasbourg is a veritable open-air museum. It's easily one of the top 15 cheap weekend destinations in France. You can visit Notre-Dame Cathedral for free, then wander through its various districts to photograph its architectural nuggets, such as the houses of Petite France, the impressive buildings of the Neustadt and the inner courtyard of the Palais Rohan. You can also walk along the waterfront from the Parc de l'Orangerie to the Orthodox Church of Tous-les-Saints, or take the Quai Ernest Bevin to admire the European Parliament. As you stroll along, you'll notice that Strasbourg is increasingly open to street art. And then there are the green spaces, with the Parc du Contades, the Parc de l'Orangerie and the Botanical Gardens. Strasbourg's museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.
