Located in the Eastern most part of northern France this formerly German city become part of France in 1681. Twice invaded by Germany since, the German influence is noticeable in the delicious national dishes, the medieval atmosphere, and last, but definitely not least, in the cleanliness and efficiency of the hotels.
Strasbourg with its many attractions is well worth including in any trip to France even though it is often regarded as a city of diplomats because the Court of Human Rights and the European Court of Justice are located here, and not viewed as being ‘on the tourist trail’. The city’s sights include its locks, the great cathedral, and La Petite France.
A Bateaux Tour in Strasbourg
It is a good idea to take a bateaux tour through one of the city’s most famous attractions – its canal system and locks. This provides an excellent and very enjoyable way to become oriented in Strasbourg. This relaxing tour with its taped commentary in three languages not only goes through some of the locks, but also travels past many interesting places, such as La Petite France with its medieval half-timbered houses, and the ornate Palais Rohan, where Marie Antoinette once stayed, now a museum. It also passes the European Court of Human Rights and the European Court of Human Rights, cleverly designed by award-winning English architect, Richard Rogers.
Strasbourg's Grand Cathedral
Strasbourg’s main attraction, however, is its Gothic pink sandstone cathedral with its soaring spire, which Victor Hugo described as: “the true triumph of this Cathedral. It is a veritable tiara of stone with its crown and its cross. It is a gigantic and delicate marvel.” He also stated that: “I have seen Chartres, I have seen Anvers, but I needed to see Strasbourg….”
When spot lit at night Strasbourg’s splendid cathedral appears to be an eerie combination of medieval beauty and modern technology.
The 16th century clock inside, the horlage astronomique, with its carved wooden figures representing the 12 apostles, strikes every day at 12.30 p.m. precisely, is well worth seeing. Tourists especially like watching the colorful figures twist and turn in their medieval 'dance'. There are almost always crowds anxious to see this so it is advisable to go early.
The Prettiest Part of Strasbourg - La Petite France
Walking through La Petite France with its narrow cobblestoned streets and Tudor architecture it is easy to imagine oneself back in medieval times, a peasant walking to market perhaps, or an aristocrat going to the cathedral. This is one of the most historical and fascinating parts of the city. Quiet by day, it is lively at night, with people enjoying the sidewalk cafes, excellent restaurants, and the entertainment of the many street entertainers, some of whom play haunting gypsy music. Here visitors can choose between French and German restaurants with their delicious traditional dishes of Aquitaine. After dinner, the firework display best seen from one of the city’s many covered bridges provides the highlight of the evening for many visitors.
Shopping.in Strasbourg's Place Kleber and Vielle Ville
Strasbourg also has excellent shopping in the Place Kleber, its main public square, and along the Vielle Ville. Locals and tourists like to shop at the main department stores located here and the many designer stores with the most elegant French clothes. Most of the shop assistants speak at least a little English so shopping is not difficult.
Strasbourg is especially enjoyable to visit after staying in Paris, one of Europe’s most crowded cities. Its compact size makes it easy for visitors to find their way about and most of the city is for pedestrians only which makes walking very pleasant and simple. Cars are banned, except in emergencies. It is therefore quiet and peaceful, as well as charming.
Arguably the best way to reach the city is by train from Paris. The train journey is reasonably inexpensive – and takes about four hours. Once past the outskirts of Paris the train passes through very picturesque and quintessentially French scenery with serene vineyards, wooded hills, and ancient villages, built in stone.
Don’t travel second-class in summer unless the idea of travelling with crowds of hot and sweaty backpackers appeals, that is, if a seat is available at all, which is not likely. Two tourists almost caused a furor when they took two reserved seats by mistake and had to stand most of the rest of the way. First-class travel does not cost much extra.
The train station is centrally located and there are many excellent and reasonably priced hotels nearby. The German-style hotel, for example, where we stayed, although only two stars, had large comfortable bedrooms with en-suites. A delicious breakfast was available in the formal dining-room.
When tired of the crowds and traffic in Paris and London, Strasbourg is an ideal city to visit.
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