Exploring Strasbourg, France: 10 Places to Visit and 5 Places to Avoid

Strasbourg, France is a beautiful city located in the Alsace region of northeastern France. It is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. With so much to explore, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to visit and the places you should avoid in Strasbourg.

1. Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic sites in Strasbourg. This beautiful Gothic cathedral was built in the 11th century and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Inside, you’ll find breathtaking stained glass windows, ornate sculptures, and intricate carvings. The Notre Dame Cathedral is open to the public, so make sure to take a few moments to admire its beauty.

2. La Petite France

La Petite France is a charming district of Strasbourg that is full of winding cobblestone streets and traditional Alsatian architecture. This area is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants. La Petite France is also home to some of the most beautiful views in the city, so make sure to bring your camera!

3. Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

If you’re looking for some culture, then the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is the perfect place to visit. This museum houses an impressive collection of artwork from the 19th century to the present day. You can also take part in workshops, lectures, and guided tours to gain a deeper insight into the world of art.

4. Place Gutenberg

Place Gutenberg is a picturesque square located in the heart of Strasbourg. It is named after Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, and is surrounded by historic buildings and monuments. The square is also home to a variety of cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to relax and people watch.

5. Strasbourg Christmas Market

The Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the most popular winter attractions in the city. Every year, the market draws in thousands of visitors who come to browse the stalls, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and sample some of the delicious local cuisine. The market takes place in December, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly!

6. Strasbourg Zoo

The Strasbourg Zoo is a great place to spend a day with the family. Here, you can get up close to a variety of animals, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants. The zoo also offers educational activities and special events throughout the year, making it a fun and informative way to learn about the natural world.

7. Strasbourg Astronomical Clock

The Strasbourg Astronomical Clock is an impressive piece of engineering that has been ticking away since 1843. Located in the city’s main square, the clock is a marvel to behold and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Strasbourg. Make sure to take a few minutes to admire this amazing feat of mechanical engineering.

8. Palais Rohan

The Palais Rohan is a former palace that now houses three museums. Here, you can explore the history of the city through a variety of exhibits, including a collection of fine arts and a selection of archaeological artifacts. The palace is also home to some stunning gardens, which make for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

9. Strasbourg Opera House

The Strasbourg Opera House is the perfect place to experience some of the city’s finest cultural offerings. Here, you can enjoy a variety of operas, ballets, and concerts, as well as take part in guided tours of the building. Be sure to check out the opera house’s website to see what performances are coming up during your stay.

10. Strasbourg Botanical Garden

The Strasbourg Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis located in the heart of the city. Here, you can explore a variety of plants, flowers, and trees, as well as take part in educational workshops and activities. The garden also has a café, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or afternoon snack.

Places to Avoid

1. La Petite France at Night: La Petite France is an enchanting district during the day, but at night it can become quite dangerous. The streets can become crowded with pickpockets and other criminals, so it’s best to avoid the area after dark.

2. Strasbourg Train Station: The Strasbourg Train Station is a busy hub of activity, but it can also be a hotbed of criminal activity. Pickpockets and other criminals often target unsuspecting tourists, so it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings when visiting the station.

3. Les Halles Market: Les Halles Market is a popular tourist destination, but it can also be a dangerous place. The area is often crowded with pickpockets and other criminals, so it’s best to keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings.

4. Strasbourg Cathedral at Night: The Strasbourg Cathedral is an impressive sight during the day, but at night it can be a dangerous place. The narrow alleyways around the cathedral can be dangerous, so it’s best to avoid them after dark.

5. The Quayside: The quayside of the River Ill is a popular spot for tourists, but it can also be a dangerous place. The area is often crowded with pickpockets and other criminals, so it’s best to keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings.