Strasbourg is indeed one of Europe's most beautiful cities – from the imposing Cathedral with its intricate carvings, to the picturesque houses and canals of Petite France – all which make it a very popular tourist destination, not to mention a wonderful place to live.
In addition to its rich history and stunning architecture, Strasbourg is also renowned for its cultural offerings. The city is home to a number of world-class museums, theaters, and opera houses, as well as a thriving food and nightlife scene.
🍷 Although Strasbourg is not part of the Alsace Wine Route, it is in Strasbourg that the world's oldest wine in a barrel is preserved. It dates back to 1472. 🚲 Strasbourg is renowned for its cycling. Its network of cycle paths is the longest in France.
Historically, this region of France has at times been under German influence. This gives rise to a distinctive cuisine and a cultural identity which is different from other parts of the country. Alsatian dishes incorporate German staples such as pork, sauerkraut and cheese given a subtle Gallic twist.
Why is Strasbourg called the capital of Christmas?
Christmas, like nowhere else
“Strasbourg, capital of Christmas” is exceptionally renowned. Every year, close to two million visitors flock to the Alsatian capital to experience its enchanting market. For over a month, Strasbourg is imbued with a festive, spiritual ambiance with few parallels anywhere else in Europe.
Another great asset of Strasbourg is its dining scene. The delectable local dishes, excellent wines and refreshing local beers give credence to the city's nickname as 'the crossroads of Europe'.
Probably the best-known dish of Strasbourg and Alsace, sauerkraut ("choucroute" in French) is a delicious and diverse staple in the region. Pickled and fermented cabbage (typically white or purple) is served hot or cold alongside other typical dishes such as sausages (see below), ham, potatoes, or salted turnips.
This cake is made with yeast, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and raisins. It's a traditional Alsatian cake that's often served for breakfast or dessert. The cake is baked in a special mold that gives it its distinctive shape, and it's usually dusted with powdered sugar before being served.
It's even one of the four capitals of Europe, along with Brussels, Luxembourg, and Frankfurt. And, no matter what you're looking for, Strasbourg has something for everyone. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, explore the colorful medieval streetscapes in La Petite France, or indulge in savory Alsatian cuisine.
Strasbourg is a gorgeous mid-size city known for its romantic canals, medieval architecture, and towering cathedral. Wonderful to visit during any time of the year, here's a free and self-guided Strasbourg walking tour to help you get your bearings in this European city…
Since Strasbourg is one of the capitals of Europe, English is widely spoken. In general, the demographic in Strasbourg is very diverse, so it's not uncommon to hear several languages while walking around. This means you're almost always sure to find someone who speaks English.
Strasbourg cathedral is an outstanding masterpiece of Gothic art. The construction of the Romanesque cathedral, of which only the crypt and the footprint remain, began in 1015. The spire of the current building, in a Gothic style, was completed in 1439.
Paris and Strasbourg top the list of the best cities in France to enjoy the magic of Christmas. In addition to its dedicated Christmas markets and events, the French capital sets up, as it does every year, outdoor ice rinks to allow both locals and tourists to enjoy winter sports within city walls.
The Prussians brought Strasbourg into the new German Empire in 1871 following the Franco-Prussian War; it was then taken back by the French at the Treaty of Versailles, and then again by the Germans in 1940, before finally assuming its current position as an important city in eastern France in 1945.
After having changed nationality four times between 1870 and 1945, Strasbourg today is a symbol of Franco-German reconciliation and European integration. The following is a detailed history of Strasbourg, France.
Strasbourg itself is a very safe city, and you will only have to be on the lookout for scams and pickpockets as it doesn't experience any natural disasters and serious crimes are very rare, especially for tourists.
Strasbourg became a wealthy city due to its strategic position on the Rhine. Its growing autonomy allowed it to become a free city of the empire; it obtained the privilege of hosting a fair and became one of Europe's warehouses on the Rhine.
Strasbourg. / (French strasbur, English ˈstræzbɜːɡ) / noun. a city in NE France, on the Rhine: the chief French inland port; under German rule (1870–1918); university (1567); seat of the Council of Europe and of the European Parliament.
Alsace is also well known for its foie gras made in the region since the 17th century. The gastronomic symbol of the région is undoubtedly the Choucroute, a local variety of Sauerkraut.
For those with a sweet tooth Strasbourg is known for its gingerbread and many of the shops that serve it are festooned with giant and, quite frankly, spooky gingerbread men.
Sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is the signature dish of Alsace, which consists of fermented white cabbage served with various types of meat, such as knacks, kassler and bacon. Fermented cabbage is considered to be rich in probiotics and vitamins, and is often served hot with potatoes. It is considered a comfort food in winter.
