Visiting Strasbourg in one day: 6 must-see sites
Visiting Strasbourg in one day may seem challenging, but it is also a great way to discover this unique city. Situated on the border with Germany, Strasbourg is famous for its mix of cultures, its UNESCO World Heritage historic centre and its key role as a European capital. Canals, half-timbered houses, European institutions and a gastronomy with a strong Alsatian identity make the city a must-see.
For many travellers, visiting Strasbourg is part of a boating holiday in Alsace-Lorraine, on routes following the Marne Canal to the Rhine. Stopping here for a day trip allows you to combine the tranquility of boating with a visit to a vibrant city.
In this article, we cover 6 must-see spots to visit in Strasbourg if, like many visitors, you only have a day to spend in the city, whether you’re on a city break or as part of a wider trip through Alsace.
1. Strasbourg’s European quarter
As you may know, Strasbourg is one of the capitals of European Union, so a visit to the European Quarter is a must. It is the only city that is not the capital of a state and is home to important European institutions, such as the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights and the European Parliament, which has the largest hemicycle in Europe.
While exploring this district on foot, or cruising past it on your way into the city from our Hesse base, you will also discover the Neustadt, known as the German or imperial quarter. This area perfectly represents the architecture and urban planning of the German imperial era, with emblematic buildings such as the University, the former Post Office, Republic Square and the Botanical Gardens.
2. The Parc de l’Orangerie
This 26-hectare park next to the European quarter is the largest park in the city. Don’t forget your binoculars to see the numerous storks in their natural environment. We recommend going early in the morning on a weekday to see them peacefully go about their business. It’s also the perfect place for a picnic at the weekend.
If you are travelling with your family, the park offers many kid-friendly activities: bowling, zoo, farm, boat rental and many playgrounds. If you don’t have your sandwiches ready, there are plenty of restaurants available.
3. Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral
This is without a doubt the most important visit you can make if you only have one day to visit Strasbourg: you can’t miss Notre-Dame Cathedral. Located in the historic heart of the city, it’s a treasure of gothic religious architecture. It was founded in 1015 but its construction began in 1176 and was finished in 1439, its colour is pink due to the sandstone used, its shaft measures 142m. The famous writer Victor Hugo said of it that it is a “prodigy of gigantism and delicacy”. Inside, you will find the famous astronomical clock, which is worth the visit in itself.
Bonus:
Climb the 332 steps to overlook the city, take panoramic photos and have an incredible view of Strasbourg. If you are travelling with your children, don’t forget to ask them to count the steps! It’ll hopefully make climb feel quicker!
4. La Petite France
One of the other must-see sites if you only have one day in Strasbourg. There is so much to take in, you’ll have to keep you eyes peeled! Between the half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and canals, you won’t know what you like most. Make sure you have plenty of photo storage available on your phone!
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a small village. When it was built in the 16th century, La Petite France was the tanners’ quarter. The “Tanners’ House“, which was built in 1572 in the centre of the Benjamin Zix square, remains.
5. The Barrage Vauban and the Covered Bridges
Located just west of the Petite France district, the Barrage Vauban (Vauban dam) and the nearby Covered Bridges (Ponts Couverts) are some of Strasbourg’s most photogenic historical monuments.
Built in the 17th century as part of the city’s defensive system, the Barrage Vauban now doubles as a panoramic terrace, offering some of the best views of the canals and of the half-timbered houses of the Petite France.
Right next to it, the medieval Covered Bridges, though no longer roofed, create a spectacular backdrop with their stone towers and spreading across the water. This area is definitely worth a brief stop for its views, its history and its more classical landscape, all within walking distance of the main sites of the old town.
6. La Grande-Île de Strasbourg
The Grande-Île de Strasbourg or Grande-Ile de Strasbourg is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is an urban ensemble that bears witness to the mixture of French and Germanic influences and to the political and religious changes seen by the city from medieval times to the present day. Surrounded by the Ill and the canal du faux rempart, the Grande-Île constitutes the historic centre of Strasbourg.
A great way of discovering Strasbourg is to explore its canals on a guided bateau-mouche ride. Along the way, you will be able to admire some of the city’s main monuments, such as:
- Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral
- The Rohan Palace
- Several medieval churches, including Saint-Thomas, Saint-Étienne, Saint-Pierre-le-Vieux and Saint-Pierre-le-Jeune.
Right in the centre is Place Kléber, the city’s main square and meeting point, ideal for a break during your visit.
Have you got a bit more time to visit Strasbourg?
Here are some great places to visit in Strasbourg if you have a bit more time!
- The historic cellar of the Hospices de Strasbourg, ideal for wine lovers.
- The Archaeological Museum, perfect for those wanting to travel back in time and to learn about the origins of the region.
- The Museum of Fine Arts, a must for those with an artistic soul.
- The Musée de l’Oeuvre de Notre-Dame, to delve into the history and construction of the cathedral.
- The Museum of Alsace, dedicated to the traditions and history of this fascinating region.
- The Cronenbourg district, known for its iconic Kronenbourg brewery.
- Take a guided bateau-mouche ride along the canals, a relaxing and different way to admire Strasbourg’s most emblematic buildings from the water.
If you plan on visiting Strasbourg in autumn or winter, don’t miss its famous Christmas markets: they’re considered among the most beautiful in Europe. Stroll among the illuminated stalls, try traditional pretzels, mulled wine and typical sweets such as bredele, the Christmas biscuits of Alsace.
FAQ about boating holidays in Strasbourg
In Strasbourg, moorings for pleasure boats are located about 15-20 minutes’ walk from the historic centre. The main port is located on the Quai des Belges, on the banks of the river Ill, in the northern part of the city centre, not far from the Parc de l’Orangerie and the European institutions. This port has water and electricity, making it a convenient option for those arriving by boat and wishing to visit the city in peace and quiet.
Yes, it is an ideal area for beginners. The canals of Alsace are quiet, well signposted and with easy-to-use locks. Moreover, with Emerald Star, no previous experience is necessary: before setting sail, a full training on boat handling and basic sailing rules is provided, allowing you to sail with complete peace of mind.
From the base in Hesse, the trip to Strasbourg takes approximately 16 to 17 hours, depending on the cruising pace. The route includes the Arzviller inclined plane, an impressive piece of engineering and a real boat lift, which makes the journey an unforgettable experience on the Alsatian canals.
No. You don’t need a boating licence to hire a boat with Emerald Star. We specialise in boating holidays that don’t require a licence, allowing anyone to take the helm after a short training session before departure.
Discover Strasbourg on your own boating holiday in Alsace-Lorraine
With Emerald Star, enjoy the freedom of boating with a large and comfortable fleet on the canals of Alsace, between half-timbered houses, locks and vineyard landscapes.
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