Strasbourg

Seat of the European Parliament...
The cosmopolitan, north-eastern city of Strasbourg is the intellectual, cultural and economic capital of Alsace. Stylish and atmospheric, it is the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. Situated just west of the Rhine, Strasbourg lies at the heart of the vital transport arteries that have linked northern and Central Europe with the Mediterranean since Roman times.

The Grande Ile is the hub of both ancient and modern-day Strasbourg. Boasting lively public squares and upmarket shopping streets, it’s a great place to while away an afternoon. Head for the Petite France area southwest of the Grand Ile with its beautifully preserved half-timbered houses and riverside parks for a true glimpse of Alsatian atmosphere and charm. The magnificent Cathedrale Notre Dame looms over the town, its pink sandstone glowing. Dating back to 1176, it offers a breathtaking view over the city. Its spectacular stained glass windows alone make it worth a visit. Don’t miss the Musee de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame either.

The city’s finest museum, it has a stunning collection of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance sculpture in both stone and wood. The new Musee d’Art Moderne et Contemporain houses a fine collection of paintings and sculpture from the impressionists to the present including works by Monet, Manet and Chagall. The Palais d’Europe, home of the European Parliament, lies 2km north-east of the cathedral and is open to the public for one-hour tours each weekday.

Intellectual, cultural & economic capital of Alsace...
What makes visiting Strasbourg a real pleasure is its low volume of car traffic. It has the most modern tramway system in Europe as well as being the most bicycle-friendly city in France with a 300 kilometre network of cycling paths. What better way to see the city and get fit after over-indulging in Alsatian specialities? With Alsace boasting the largest collection of star-rated gastronomical restaurants in France, there’s no doubt you’ll be eating and drinking well!

France Travel Information