Strasbourg, france
Attractions Guide

Strasbourg is a major city in the Alsace region of Eastern France, a region known for its Alsatian wines and many lovely towns. The city of Strasbourg sits right on the German border, adjacent to the Rhine River.

This city is know for its picturesque historic center, which is located on Grand Ile, a large island surrounded by rivers in the middle of the city. Within the UNESCO listed historic center of Strasbourg are many medieval buildings and the city's main attractions.

Among Strasbourg's top attractions is the lovely Petite France district of the old town, which is located on the southwestern side of Grand Ile. At Petite France the river splits into multiple small rivers, forming several tiny long islands. Here you can admire the many gorgeous and colorful medieval houses that line the rivers by exploring the area on foot.

Some of the best spots to enjoy views of the lovely buildings along the river include the Pont Saint-Martin bridge and the nearby Place Benjamin Zix. Also nearby you can admire the striking medieval Eglise Saint Thomas, a gothic church which famously houses an organ played by Mozart.

Just west of the islands of Petit France is the 17th century Barrage Vauban, a covered bridge which spans across the river. The Barrage Vauban hosts a small sculpture museum, as well as access to a viewing terrace atop the bridge, which offers breathtaking views overlooking the medieval towers and bridge connecting the tiny islands of Petite France. This bridge is known as Ponts Couverts.

The city's main square is the massive Kleber Square, which is lined with many stunning medieval buildings. This square is centrally located in the heart of Grand Ile.

On the southern side of Grande Ile is the city's Strasbourg Cathedral showcasing elegant and extremely complex gothic architecture. This towering medieval cathedral was the tallest building in the world for over 200 years, and today it is still the sixth tallest church on Earth.

Within this gorgeous church you'll find an incredible 16th century astronomical clock, which is among the largest in the world. The church also features fine stained glass windows, as well as a tower that you can climb for amazing views overlooking the historic city center.

Nearby you can take in beautiful views along the river from the Pont du Corbeau, and even take a scenic tour boat ride along the river from the Pier Batorama Rohan Palace.

Across from the Strasbourg Cathedral is the baroque 18th century Palais Rohan palace, which hosts the city's Archaeological Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and Museum of Decorative Arts.

Next door to Palais Rohan is the Museum Oeuvre Notre-Dame hosting an impressive collection of decorative and fine arts from the Middle Ages, including many sculptures. The museum is housed in a lovely medieval building and is highly recommended.

Just over the Germany border to the south of Strasbourg is Europa-Park, the second most popular amusement park on the continent after Disneyland Paris. This theme park features many thrill rides and themed areas, and is located in the German city of Rust, near Germany's Black Forest.