Strasbourg is a charming city located in northeastern France, near the border with Germany; it is known for its beautiful half-timbered houses, picturesque canals, and delicious cuisine. If you plan to visit the Alsace region, include Strasbourg in your itinerary. A Strasbourg 3-Day Itinerary can introduce you to the city’s most popular attractions, starting with the historic city centre and the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral.
You can also explore the contemporary architecture of the European Quarter and the European Parliament. Don’t miss the famous Strasbourg Christmas Markets, which offer a festive atmosphere and mouth-watering delicacies.
Strasbourg is an enchanting destination that combines French and German cultures, making it an excellent choice for all types of travellers. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious food will leave you mesmerized and worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Day 1: Exploring Historical Strasbourg
On the first day of exploring Strasbourg, visitors should focus on the city’s historical sites. The following sub-sections highlight some of the must-visit places for history enthusiasts.
Cathedral of Our Lady
The Cathedral of Our Lady, also known as Strasbourg Cathedral, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral began in the 12th century and took over 250 years. Visitors can climb to the top of the cathedral’s tower for a stunning view of the city. The cathedral also houses an astronomical clock that dates back to the 19th century.
Petite France
Petite France is a charming and picturesque neighbourhood in the heart of Strasbourg. The area is known for its canals, narrow streets, and half-timbered houses. Visitors can take a boat tour through the canals for a unique neighbourhood perspective. Petite France is also home to several restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy Alsatian cuisine.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is located in a 16th-century building and houses an impressive collection of artwork from the 14th to the 21st century. The museum’s collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Visitors can enjoy the museum’s beautiful courtyard, a popular photo spot.
Overall, Day 1 of exploring Strasbourg offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and culture.
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Day 2: Discovering Modern Strasbourg
European Parliament
The European Parliament is one of the most iconic buildings in Strasbourg. It is the seat of the European Parliament and hosts many important meetings and events. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about the history and function of the European Parliament.
The tour includes a visit to the Hemicycle, where members of the European Parliament meet to debate and vote on legislative proposals. The tour is available in several languages and is a must-see for anyone interested in European politics.
Parc de l’Orangerie
Parc de l’Orangerie is a beautiful park located in the heart of Strasbourg. It is the oldest and largest park in the city and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has several attractions, including a small zoo, a lake, and a mini-golf course.
Visitors can also stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens and admire the many sculptures and fountains that adorn the grounds. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Strasbourg.
Strasbourg University
Strasbourg University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. It was founded in 1538 and has a long history of academic excellence. Visitors can take a guided tour of the university to learn about its history and see some of its most important buildings and landmarks.
The tour includes visiting the stunning Palais Universitaire, which houses the university’s central administration and several faculties. The university is a must-see for anyone interested in higher education and academic history.
Overall, Day 2 of a Strasbourg itinerary is an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s modern side. Visitors can learn about European politics, enjoy the city’s natural beauty, and discover one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
Day 3: Enjoying Strasbourg’s Natural Beauty
Boat Tour on Ill River
On the final day of their Strasbourg itinerary, visitors can enjoy the city’s natural beauty by taking a boat tour on the Ill River. The tour lasts approximately one hour and offers stunning views of the city’s architecture and nature. The boats depart from the docks near the Palais Rohan and the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
During the boat tour, visitors can see the Petite France neighbourhood, the Vauban Dam, and the covered bridges. The tour guide provides interesting information about the history and culture of Strasbourg. The boat tour is a relaxing way to end a busy trip and enjoy the city from a different perspective.
Botanical Gardens
After the boat tour, visitors can head to the Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll. The gardens cover an area of 3.5 hectares and feature various plants, including medicinal plants, tropical plants, and roses. The gardens are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, and admission is free.
Visitors can also explore the greenhouses, which house exotic plants worldwide. The greenhouses are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Mondays. The Botanical Gardens are a great place to relax and enjoy nature in the city’s heart.
Vosges Mountains
A trip to the Vosges Mountains is highly recommended for visitors who want to explore the natural beauty around Strasbourg. The mountains are located about 1.5 hours from Strasbourg and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can hike in the mountains, visit the lakes, and explore the charming villages. The Vosges Mountains are also home to several ski resorts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. A day trip to the Vosges Mountains is a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty and escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Overall, Strasbourg offers a great blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. A three-day itinerary is the perfect amount of time to explore the city’s highlights and enjoy its unique charm.
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Conclusion
Overall, Strasbourg is a charming and picturesque city with much to see and do. With its blend of French and German cultures, visitors can experience a unique mix of architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
During a three-day itinerary, visitors can explore the city’s historic centre, visit world-class museums, and enjoy the local food and wine. The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, and there are plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Some highlights of a Strasbourg itinerary include:
- Exploring the historic Petite France neighbourhood, with its canals and half-timbered houses.
- Visiting the Strasbourg Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
- Take a boat tour of the city’s canals to see the sights differently.
- Sampling local specialities like tarte flambée and Alsatian wine.
- Visiting the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art houses works by artists like Pablo Picasso and Wassily Kandinsky.
While three days is a reasonable amount of time to see the main attractions of Strasbourg, visitors could easily spend more time in the city and explore its surrounding areas. Whether you’re interested in history and culture or just enjoying the laid-back atmosphere, Strasbourg is worth a visit.
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