Set on the picturesque Rhine River, Strasbourg is located near the German border in the far east of France. It is the second-largest city on the Rhine and home to a number of European institutions, including the European Parliament. Its historic center was classified a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.
The city itself is exceptionally pretty. Its famous cathedral features an astronomical clock and some lovely old towers. The Pharmacy de Cerf is the oldest pharmacy in France, and Strasbourg’s university is one of France’s oldest and most active ones. It is a truly European city.
Gastronomy features greatly, with excellent Alsatian wines and local specialities dished up in the many wine taverns lining the charming streets in the neighborhood of ‘La Petite France’. Strasbourg has both French and German features and sometimes it’s hard to know which country you’re in. The architecture is distinctly German, while the savoir-vivre is typically French.
Highlights
Strasbourg Cathedral: is one of Europe’s most stunning examples of Gothic architecture with its spectacular pink sandstone façade.
La Petite France: is easily Strasbourg’s prettiest and most charming neighborhood, with its bridges over the Ill River and timbered buildings decorated with blooming plants.
Place Kleber: is a bustling square, perfect for shopping and people watching.
Alsatian Museum: explores the historic culture of Strasbourg and the rest of Alsace with displays of clothing and other household artifacts.
Palais de Rohan: is a stylish 18th century palace housing three museums: the Museum of Fine Art, Museum of Archaeology and the Museum of Decorative Arts.