3 Days in Strasbourg – The Perfect Itinerary (from a Local)

In a country full of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, Strasbourg holds its own. This quaint Alsatian town boasts some of the most beautiful architecture in France, mouthwatering culinary delights, and is home to Europe’s most enchanting Christmas market. Not only that but its unique location creates a fascinating fusion of French and German cultures.

Since moving abroad to Strasbourg, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring every corner of this fascinating city. And, today, I want to share with you the best of Strasbourg.

This three days in Strasbourg itinerary is your complete guide. You’ll visit historical sites like Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral, tour the Palais Rohan, stroll through La Petite France, and indulge in traditional Alsatian cuisine. It has everything you need to guarantee a fantastic trip.

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Table of Contents

• Map of Strasbourg
• Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 1
• Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 2
• Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 3
• More Cool Things to Do in Strasbourg
• Popular Days Trips from Strasbourg
• Best Time to Visit Strasbourg
• Best Tours in Strasbourg
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat
• Get In and Around
• Frequently Asked Questions

Map of Strasbourg

Below is a map of all the things to see and do while spending three days in Strasbourg. It has all the sites listed in this post. (Click here or the map to open Google Maps.)

Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 1

Watch the Sunrise from the Vauban Dam

The Vauban Dam was built in the 1600s as a means to prevent enemy advancement by flooding the city. After serving its purpose on only one occasion, the dam was transformed into a historical monument.

Today, the roof offers some of the best views of Strasbourg while the interior houses artworks of cultural significance.

And there is no better time to visit the Vauban Dam than at sunrise.

From here you can take in the views of the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral as the sky fills with hues of pink and orange. It’s a spectacular sight that is a must if you’re spending three days in Strasbourg.

If you want to learn more about the history of this amazing place, I recommend going on a Strasbourg walking tour.

Address: Place du Qur Blanc

Opening Times:

• 1 March to 30 April: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm 
• 1 May to 31 August: 7:15 am – 9:00 pm 
• 1 September to 31 October: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm  
• 1 November to 28/29 February: 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Langstross – Grand’Rue (Lines A and D)

I recommend this guided walking tour of Strasbourg.

Visit Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral

One of Strasbourg’s most exceptional monuments is its Notre Dame Cathedral. Standing at an impressive 142 meters (465 feet), this architectural masterpiece took more than 300 years to build. Its exterior is decorated with intricate Gothic-style sculptures and beautiful stained-glass windows.

And, of course, the interior is just as stunning. From the astronomical clock to sculptures and paintings, it’s sure to take your breath away.

Then, there’s the view from the top. You’ll climb 330 stars to a platform that opens to a 360-degree panorama of Strasbourg. It’s a hair-raising experience that will test the limits of your vertigo, but the view is worth it!

Admission to the cathedral is free, but, if you want to visit the platform, it’s €8.

Address: Place de la Cathédrale

Opening Times (to visit the platform): 

• 1 April to 30 September: 9:30 am – 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm – 8:00 pm 
• 1 October to 31 March: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm 

Useful Tip: Last entry to the platform is 45 minutes before closing.

Nearest Tram Station: Broglie (Lines B, C, and F)

Discover the Palais Rohan

If you love museums then the Palais Rohan is for you. Built in 1720, this baroque-style palace was once the residence of the prince-bishops and cardinals of the House of Rohan.

Today, however, it serves as one of the most important historical landmarks in Strasbourg. Not only that but it’s home to three different museums: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Decorative Arts.

Of course, choosing between them is no easy task, so why not visit all three?

Useful Tip: If you plan on visiting all three museums then the Strasbourg City Pass is a good money-saving option. You can purchase your pass by clicking here.

Address: 2 Place du Château

Opening Times: 

• Closed Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday
• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Langstross – Grand’Rue (Lines A and D)

I recommend this guided walking tour of Strasbourg.

Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 2

Take a Stroll Around La Petite France

The villages in Alsace are known for their colorful half-timbered houses, and Strasbourg is no exception. Granted, these beautiful pieces of architecture can be found throughout the city, but the most exceptional collection is in La Petite France.

Here narrow cobblestoned streets will take you past buildings painted in hues of pink, orange, green, and blue.

If you’re visiting in winter, grab a glass of glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate and enjoy it in the small park on Quai de la Petite France.

It’s easy to see why this is one of the best Instagrammable places in Strasbourg!

Nearest Tram Station: Langstross – Grand’Rue (Lines A and D)

I recommend this guided walking tour of Strasbourg.

Learn the History of Alsace at Musée Alsacien

There’s no denying that Alsace is steeped in culture and history. So what better place to learn about its traditions than at the Musée Alsacien?

This one-of-a-kind museum features an impressive collection of over 5,000 exhibits dating back to the 18th century. Not only that but the museum is spread across several traditional Alsatian houses. And, you’ll actually get to see what these houses look like on the interior.

Definitely, a unique experience that you won’t find elsewhere! And, as a bonus, the Musée Alsacien is open on Sundays.

Admission is €7.50.

Address: 23-25 Quai Saint Nicolas

Opening Times: 

• Closed Tuesday
• Monday and Wednesday to Friday: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Porte de l’Hôpital (Lines A and D)

Picnic in Parc de l’Orangerie

As the largest park in Strasbourg (26 hectares), Parc de l’Orangerie (Orangerie Park) is the perfect escape from the busy city center.

Its meticulously maintained gardens offer a serene setting while its grassed areas are perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic. You can even rent a canoe and explore the beautiful lake.

Of course, the number of activities available makes it a popular spot, but it never really feels packed.

Nearest Tram Station: Droits de l’Homme (Line E)

I recommend this guided walking tour of Strasbourg.

Tour the Historic Cellar of the Strasbourg Hospices

No trip to Strasbourg is complete without sampling some Alsatian wine. And there’s no better place than the Historic Wine Cellar of Strasbourg Hospices.

Established in 1395, underneath Strasbourg’s hospital, it was here where wine was used to cure various illnesses.

Today, you can tour the cellar for free and sample some of the finest wines in the region. Make sure to visit the barrels from 1472, they hold the oldest white wine in the world! 

Address: 1 Place de l’Hôpital

Opening Times:

• Closed Sunday
• Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 12:00 pm and 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm
• Saturday: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Porte de l’Hôpital (Lines A and D)

Strasbourg Itinerary – Day 3

Bike a section of the Rhine Cycle Route 

The Rhine Cycle Route is a 1230-kilometer (764-mile) biking path that follows the Rhine River from the Netherlands to Switzerland, passing by Strasbourg. And, as one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities, Strasbourg is the perfect place to ride a section of this famous route.

You’ll pass traditional Alsatian villages while taking in scenic views of the river. There are even picnic benches along the way, where you can enjoy a packed lunch.

You can rent a bike by clicking here.

Visit the Planetarium

Who hasn’t dreamed of going to space?

While it might seem like a far-out idea, Strasbourg’s Planetarium can give you a glimpse of what space looks like. They show entrancing movies about astronomy and recreate starry skies on a screen that is a whopping eight meters (26 feet) in diameter. It’s an immersive experience that will take you on a trip to another planet.

If you’re spending more than three days in Strasbourg, it’s worth making a reservation. One ticket includes a 30 minute film (there are two to choose from) and a 30 minute presentation about the stars.

You can purchase your tickets here.

Address: 27 Boulevard de la Victoire

Nearest Tram Station: Observatoire (Line C)

Indulge in a Tarte Flambée at Binstub Broglie

There are a few must-dos when visiting Strasbourg. And one of those is indulging in a tarte flambée.

This popular specialty most closely resembles pizza but with a twist. It consists of a thin crust topped with lardons (or small pieces of fatty bacon), crème fraîche, and onions. And, while it can be cooked in a regular oven, it’s not a true tarte flambée, unless it’s prepared in a wood-fired oven.

Yes, the recipe is simple, but its mouth-watering flavor is something that you won’t forget.

You can find this delicious delicacy at most restaurants in Strasbourg, but the best are prepared at Binstub Broglie. They have the largest variety and offer some tantalizing dessert options.

Address: 28 Impasse de l’Écrevisse

Opening Times: Reservations are required and can be made here. 

Nearest Tram Station: Broglie (Lines B, C, and F)

More Cool Things to Do in Strasbourg

Meander around Jardin des Deux Rives

Joined by a modern-style footbridge, Jardin des Deux Rives is an international garden located in both France and Germany. It was built in 1995 as a symbol of friendship between the countries.

Today, this 40-hectare garden is used to host exhibitions and cultural events. Walk along one of its many footpaths while taking in the serene setting, visit one of its 19 gardens, or bring a picnic and enjoy it next to the Rhine.

If you’re visiting in the summer, Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra organizes a free open-air concert. It’s definitely something not to be missed if you’re in town.

Nearest Tram Station: Port du Rhin (Line D)

Discover the Invisible World at the Vodou Museum

The Château Musée Vodou (Vodou Museum) is one of the most unique museums in Strasbourg. Here you’ll explore the magical tradition of Vodou through objects originating from West Africa (Ghana, Benin, Togo, and Nigeria).

Their goal is to educate the public on an otherwise unknown culture and eliminate the clichés often associated with Vodou. So, if you’re up for learning something new, then the Château Musée Vodou is for you! Admission is €14.

Address: 4 Rue de Koenigshoffen

Opening Times: Every day from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Gare Centrale (Lines, A, C, and D)

Visit the European Parliament

Not only is Strasbourg one of the four capitals of Europe, but it’s also home to the European Parliament. You can tour this impressive institution and even sit in on a plenary session. It’s a chance to watch the world’s largest transnational government in action.

Then, if you’re interested in learning more about the European Union, the Parlamentarium (visitor’s center) offers an interactive self-guided audio tour. It’s a wonderful educational experience for all ages!

Address: Allée du Printemps 

Opening times:

• Closed Sunday
• Monday to Friday: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 9:30 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Nearest Tram Station: Parlement Européen (Line E)

I recommend this guided walking tour of Strasbourg.

Tour the Chocolate Museum 

The Chocolate Museum is for chocolate lovers! You’ll follow the cocoa bean from its origins in Ecuador all the way to Strasbourg while sampling some tasty treats along the way. You’ll even get to visit the Chocolate Makers’ Laboratory and witness master chocolatiers in action.

If you have time, try the chocolate-making workshop. Here you’ll put what you learned to practice, and you’ll even be able to make your very own chocolate bar!

Admission to the museum is €7, while the workshop is an additional €4.90.

Address: Rue du Pont-du-Péage

Opening Times: 

• Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
• Sunday: 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Closed Monday, except during the month of December.
• If you want to attend a workshop, reservations are required and can be made here.

Nearest Tram Station: Graffenstaden (Line A)

Explore Strasbourg’s Christmas Market

If you’re visiting Strasbourg in December, then exploring the Christmas market is an absolute must!

During this time of the year, Strasbourg transforms into a fairytale-like winter wonderland. The city is decorated with wooden chalets, colorful lights, and festive ornaments while locals from around the region come to sell their handmade trinkets and homemade glühwein.

The atmosphere is vibrant with a contagious energy that beckons visitors.

There’s no denying Strasbourg’s Christmas market is the most popular in Alsace, so, if you want to avoid the crowds, plan on visiting in early December. And make sure to reserve your hotel in advance.

Looking to discover all Strasbourg’s Christmas market has to offer? I recommend this tour.

Popular Days Trips from Strasbourg

Colmar

Touted as the most beautiful village in Alsace, Colmar is a must-see if you have more than three days in Strasbourg. Here you’ll find colorful half-timbered houses set along narrow cobblestone streets, cozy restaurants serving hearty Alsatian food, and Alsace’s most visited museum, the Unterlinden Museum.

Granted, you could spend several days because there are so many sights to visit, but a day trip from Strasbourg is more than enough time to see the highlights.

Getting there: There are a ton of ways to get from Strasbourg to Colmar. The easiest is to take the train. From Strasbourg’s main station, trains run regularly to Colmar and take about 30 minutes.  You can book your train tickets online by clicking here.

You can book your day trip to Colmar by clicking here.

Luxembourg

Another excellent day trip from Strasbourg is Luxembourg.

This de facto capital of the European Union is full of historic sites that can easily be seen in a single day. Highlights include the Fort Thüngen, the Casemates du Bock, the Neümunster Abbey, and Pétrusse Parks.

And the easiest way to visit these is via the Vauban Circular Walk. This well-labeled self-guided circuit is 4.5 kilometers (2.7 miles) and takes about three hours. Free maps are provided by the tourist office, so be sure to pick one up when you arrive.

Getting there: From Strasbourg’s main train station, trains run regularly and take 2.5 hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here.

Paris

If you’re in France, then visiting Paris is almost mandatory. And since it’s only two hours from Strasbourg, it’s a perfect day trip.

Of course, a single day in Paris isn’t enough time to explore all it has to offer, but there are a few must-see highlights.

For the best views of Paris, head up to the Montparnasse Tower. You’ll have a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view of the city, including the Eiffel Tower. Then catch a glimpse of the Mona Lisa at the ever-impressive Louvre Museum. Finally, climb the stairs to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and stroll down the streets of Montmartre.

Getting there: From Strasbourg’s main train station, trains run regularly to Paris’ Gare de l’Est and take two hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here.

Best Time to Visit Strasbourg

• May-June and September-October are the best times to visit. During these months, the crowds are smaller and the weather is pleasant with little to no rain. 
• Early December is the best time to visit if you want to see the Christmas market. By mid-December, Strasbourg is horribly over-crowded and accommodation is difficult to find.

Best Tours in Strasbourg

A great way to visit Strasbourg is by taking a tour. And if you’re spending three days in Strasbourg, a tour guarantees you won’t miss a thing! I listed several above, but here is a complete summary:

• Strasbourg Walking Tour – This is Strasbourg’s best walking tour. They offer a complete overview of the city. You’ll learn about the history and culture while exploring the best of Strasbourg. Book your tour by clicking here.
• Boat Tour – Discover Strasbourg by boat! You’ll wind through the canals of Strasbourg and discover the city from a unique view. It’s a one-of-a-kind tour that will leave you memorized. Book your tour by clicking here.
• Segway Tour – Segway tours are becoming more and more popular in Strasbourg. It’s a fun way to visit the main attractions. Book your tour by clicking here.
• Bike Tour – With nearly 600 kilometers (372 miles) of biking paths, Strasbourg is a great city to explore by bike. You’ll explore all the main sites and learn about the history of Strasbourg. Book your tour by clicking here.
• Food Tour – Discover Strasbourg’s food scene with this amazing food tour. It’s a culinary adventure that will leave your tastebuds bursting with excitement! Book your tour by clicking here.
• Scavenger Hunt – One of the coolest tours in Strasbourg. You’ll discover the city through a scavenger hunt! It’s a unique way to explore the city, to say the least. Book your tour by clicking here.
• Audio-Guided Tour – Finally, if you prefer to visit Strasbourg on your own but need some guidance, try an audio-guided self-tour. You’ll have an audio guide as well as a navigational guide, so you can be sure you won’t miss anything. Book your audio-guided tour by clicking here.

Where to Stay

Strasbourg has no shortage of accommodation options. With hotels on every corner, it can be difficult to choose. So, I’ve put together a small list of hotels to fit every budget. 

Budget

• City Residence Access Strasbourg – The best budget option in Strasbourg. It’s centrally located and offers clean, well-equipped rooms with friendly staff.

Mid-Range

• Le Kléber Hôtel – Centrally located with beautiful rooms. If you’re looking for a mid-range option, this is the perfect place. 

Luxury

• Les Haras Hôtel – A stunning hotel with an elegant design and comfortable furnishings. If you stay here, you might never leave your room!

Where to Eat

If you love to eat, then Strasbourg won’t disappoint. In fact, one of the advantages of living here is the variety of restaurants. And I’ve tried most places so I can share with you some of the places to eat. Below is a list of local favorites that will help you get acquainted with the cuisine of Alsace.

Breakfast

• Au Pain De Mon Grand-Père – The best croissants in Strasbourg, no questions asked!
• Hey Mama – If you love brunch, then Hey Mama has you covered. It’s the best in town. But it’s only available on Saturday and Sunday, so make a reservation if you want to guarantee your spot.

Lunch and Dinner

• Restaurant de la Victoire – Typical Alsatian food with a cozy atmosphere. This is where locals go to eat local food!
• Aux Armes de Strasbourg – Centrally located, this old-fashioned brasserie serves some of the best traditional Alsatian food in Strasbourg.
• Vino Strada Stub – A modern take on traditional Alsatian cuisine. They have an excellent menu with dishes made from fresh produce. And their selection of wine is nothing short of impressive!

Discover Strasbourg’s culinary scene with this traditional Alsatian food tour!

Get In and Around

How to Get to Strasbourg

By Plane – Despite its size, Strasbourg does, in fact, have an airport (Entzheim Airport). But it only serves a small number of destinations and it’s very expensive. Instead, I recommend flying to Paris (France), Basel (Switzerland), or Frankfurt (Germany).

Get the best deals on flights here

By Train – Paris (France), Basel (Switzerland), or Frankfurt (Germany) all have trains that run regularly to and from Strasbourg in under three hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here.

By Bus – Paris (France), Basel (Switzerland), or Frankfurt (Germany) also have direct buses that run to and from Strasbourg. You can book your bus tickets online by clicking here.

How to Get Around Strasbourg

By Car – Hiring a car in Strasbourg is great, especially if you want to take day trips. It will give you the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Not only that but you’ll also be able to visit some of the lesser-known spots.

If you’re looking to rent a car in Strasbourg, I recommend Discover Cars.

By Public Transportation – Once in Strasbourg, public transportation is readily available and easy to use. The most common forms are buses and trams. Trains are also available but don’t operate within the city itself.

By Walking – Then, if you prefer, you can visit the main highlights on foot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1 day in Strasbourg enough?

Absolutely not! Strasbourg is a beautiful, historic city with so much to offer. While you can certainly see a lot in one day, it’s definitely not enough time to do it justice. Plus, with three days in Strasbourg, you’ll have plenty of time to explore at a leisurely pace and fully experience the city.

Is it better to stay in Strasbourg or Colmar?

There is no doubt that Strasbourg is the better choice for affordable accommodation when visiting this region of France. Compared to Colmar, Strasbourg has a wide range of hotels and hostels, making it easy to find something within your budget. Not only that but it’s the transportation hub of Alsace and is better connected to other parts of France and Europe. If you want to visit Colmar, I would recommend doing it as a day trip from Strasbourg.

Is Strasbourg a walkable city?

One of the best things about Strasbourg is that it’s very walkable. The city center is relatively small and compact, which makes it easy to get around on foot. And, even though the city is spread out in some areas, there are plenty of pedestrian-friendly paths and bridges that make getting around a breeze.

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Strasbourg is an overlooked destination, but as I’ve shown there are a number of things to do here. Steeped in rich history and surrounded by natural beauty, this city has something for every kind of traveler. So, use this guide to help plan your next three days in Strasbourg. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

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Read More Articles on France

Hope you enjoyed my article on how to spend three days in Strasbourg and found it useful. Here are some more travel guides from France that I think you might find interesting.

• How I Got My Long-Stay Visa (Spouse of a French Citizen)
• 13 Amazing Things to Do in Eguisheim, France

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