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Strasbourg Solo Travel Guide

Water Channel, Strasbourg

Planning a solo trip to Strasbourg, France? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

  • The capital of France’s Alsace region, with a population of ~500,000.
  • The city centre (Grande Île), was the first city named a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Located on the border with Germany, the city has a strong German influence.
  • Strasbourg is the official seat of the EU Parliament (and many other EU institutions).
  • Nicknames: The Capital of Europe, The Crossroads of Europe.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Spoken languages: primarily French (some also speak the local Alsatian).
  • Best time to visit: from May to September for the best weather (warm and sunny).
  • The city is a delight in December, when the famous Christmas markets take place. The city livens up with stalls and festivities. Try the hot wine and Christmas cookies on offer.
  • The Strasbourg Carnival takes place every March (the city gets very busy at this time).
  • Arriving via airport (Strasbourg International Airport): a train runs from the airport to the city center for 3.60€, and takes just 9 minutes. A taxi ride will cost around 30 Euros.

WHERE TO STAY

  • Grande Île (city centre) has the upscale accommodation in the city, while mid-range hotels are typically in place de la Gare and on rue du Maire Kuss.
  • Budget hostels can be found around 10-20 minutes away from the city center.
  • Areas just outside the center, such as the Orangerie, the European Parliament district, or the Krutenau, offer excellent value for money.

GETTING AROUND

  • The central part of the city is easily explored on foot, as main attractions are close together.
  • Many visitors opt to rent bicycles when in Strasbourg – this makes for an affordable and flexible way of getting around. Bicycles are even allowed on trams.
  • Buses and trams reach most areas of the city and surrounding areas. A ride costs €2.00. A 24 hour pass costs €4.60.
  • The Strasbourg City Pass, valid for 3 consecutive days, offers free access to various attractions and discounts on others, including a canal boat tour and museum visits.

STRASBOURG NIGHTLIFE

  • Drinking age is 18.
  • A large number of visitors and active university population keeps nightlife active.
  • The cathedral area, rue des Juifs and rue des Frères are the most nightlife spots.
  • Great bars in Strasbourg: Le Local (classic pub), Peniche Mecanique, La Taverne Française, and Le 21 ShooterBar (best shots).
  • Want to catch the game? Head to The Dubliners or Le Café des Sports.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

  • Cathédrale Notre Dame in Grand Île, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, is architecturally stunning and is Strasbourg’s focal point.
    – Tip: the astronomical clock in the cathedral features a daily procession of apostles at 12:30 PM.
    – Check out the son et lumière – a light display on the cathedral façade at night.
  • Petite France is a small area between the two rivers, full of timber houses and cobbled streets. The area features many good restaurants and cafes.
  • The French palace Palais des Rohan, built in 1681, is home to several museums. A must-visit attraction.
  • Check out the European Parliament building, showcasing Strasbourg’s role as a European capital.

INTERESTING WALKS

  • Self-guided walking tours of the city center are available from the tourist office for just 1 EURO. A wide variety of different routes are specified.
  • Take a walk through Petite France to see some lovely medieval architecture.
  • Climb the 332 steps to the cathedral’s viewing terrace for a panoramic view of the city and, on clear days, even Germany.
  • Take a canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective, especially through Petite France.

WHERE TO EAT

  • Great value restaurants: Restaurant Au Pont Corbeau, Le Baeckeoffe d’Alsace, La Fignette, S’Thomas Stuebel, Namsan Maru (Korean), Restaurant Les Chauvins Père & Fils, and Chez Yvonne.
  • Where to find good cheap eats: be sure to try the local sauerkraut in Strasbourg – it may appear to be expensive, but portions are large and worth every penny.
    – Budget food options can be found along main streets of the city – look for small owner-run cafes and restaurants.
  • For a taste of local cuisine, try traditional Alsatian dishes like choucroute (sauerkraut) and tarte flambée.

LOCAL WISDOM

  • Dangerous areas: Strasbourg is generally safe. In any case, be sure to watch your valuables and watch out for pickpockets in tourist areas.

Recommended trip duration: 1-2 days

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