Strasbourg

Strasbourg, the attractive capital of the region Alsace, is most widely known for its important role in the European Union. Both the European Parliament and the Council of Europe with its Court of Rights are seated in this intellectual, cultural and economic city. Strasbourg is situated right on the border to Germany, and therefore strongly influenced by the Germanic culture. Since Roman times Strasbourg has been a transportation center because of its ideal location just west of the Rhine. This important hub is the second largest on the river Rhine and links Northern and Central Europe with the Mediterranean.

In 1988 Strasbourg became the first city to have its entire center classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Petite France, the name of the most picturesque island in the city center, hosts some of Strasbourg prettiest and photogenic buildings. Discover the cobblestone streets with its adorable half-timbered houses and walk along the lovely canals, which encircle the city. Romantic Petite France, the former home of the city's millers, tanners and fishermen, should not be missed during your France visit.

Strasbourg also hosts one of Europe's oldest universities. The large student population gives the city a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Throughout the 18th century the university welcomed many famous historical students such as Goethe, Metternich and Montgelas.

The strong influence of Germanic culture is still present in the Alsatian cuisine. The Alsatian specialties can be eaten in one of the many cozy restaurants. Try out the most famous traditional dish, Choucroute this is a plate of Sauerkraut garnished with sausages, meat and potatoes or an authentic Flammekueche! Alsace was the first beer-producing region of France and Strasbourg has many breweries from which Kronenbourg and Fisher are most wildly known. The Alsace is also a very important wine region, taste some of the best French wines such as Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc and Muscat Alsace.

Attractions and Activities in Strasbourg

A wide range of historical sights, tourist attractions and activities can be found in and around Strasbourg. The best way to discover and fully enjoy Strasbourg and the Alsace region is by bicycle. Rent a bike and cycle the convenient tracks to numerous villages and sights.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Built between 1190 and 1439 this Gothic sandstone Cathedral is the highest medieval building in Europe. With its 142 meter (467 ft.) in height surrounded by photo genetic half-timbered townhouses the Cathedral is overlooking the entire city. Enjoy the spectacular view by walking up the 332 steps all the way to the spire's viewing platform. The main attraction of the Cathedral is the magnificent Astronomical Clock, an invention put together by various artists, mathematicians and technicians.

Petite France
This picturesque part of Strasbourg called "Small France" is located on the Grand Ile, where the river Ill splits into a number of canals. The medieval half-timbered houses and baroque sandstone buildings date from the 17th and 18th century. The name "Petite-France" (Gerberviertel in German) was conferred by the former German inhabitants not for architectonical reasons, but because of the numerous prostitutes working there. Today Petite France offers travelers an authentic settlement of ancient times with lots of historic buildings, small streets and nice restaurants and shops.

European Institutions
In the north-eastern Strasbourg, visitors will find the Palace of Europe (Seat of the Council of Europe) together with other buildings of the European Institutions, including the European Parliament and the Court of Human Rights. This new part of the city can easily be reached with the tramway line E. The European Court of Human Rights was established in 1950 to monitor compliance by all signatory parties. The European Convention on Human Rights is one of the most important conventions adopted by the Council of Europe.

Shopping
The city of Strasbourg also offers great shopping opportunities including many famous French department stores, chic boutiques, souvenir stores and all sort of other of stores. This German-style Christmas Market is an attraction by itself and specializes in hand-made decorations and Christmas designs.

The Alsace Museum

This charming museum is housed in three 16th and 17th century buildings and consists of 30 rooms full of traditional furniture, ceramics, toys and religious imagery. The museum reflects the everyday life of rural Alsace from the 7th till the 19th century.

Colmar

The world known French artist, Frederic-August Bartholdi, who created the Statue of Liberty, was born in this picturesque town. The museum dedicated to the famous sculptor is a local attraction not to be missed. Colmar is also called little Venice due to its attractive and gorgeous canals and bridges. Known to be one of the driest cities in France with an average rainfall of 550 mm, makes Colmar an excellent place for growing grapes for the Alsatian Wine specialties.