Looking for the best museums in Strasbourg, France?
Well, you’ve come to the right place.
Not only have I lived in Strasbourg since 2019, but I’ve also been to every museum in town.
From the charming Musée Alsacien that showcases traditional Alsatian life to the awe-inspiring Palais de Rohan, home to not one but three museums, each one offers something unique.
Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours exploring their galleries and exhibits.
And, today, I want to share with you the best museums in town as well as the top exhibits to visit in each one. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or curious about the local culture, this guide has you covered.
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15 Best Museums in Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is a city full of history and culture. And one of the best ways to immerse yourself in all it has to offer is to visit its museums.
So, without further ado, here are the 15 best museums to visit in Strasbourg.
1. Musée Alsacien
There’s no denying that Strasbourg has had a tumultuous past. For centuries it was at the center of conflict between Germany and France. It was annexed so often that locals began to identify with the region, Alsace, rather than the country Strasbourg belonged to.
At the end of the Franco-Prussian War, Germany sought to Germanize the city, and significant changes to the architecture and general way of life were realized.
So, to keep Alsatian traditions alive, the Musée Alsacien was created.
Housed in a series of 16th and 17th-century half-timbered houses, this museum will give you an in-depth look at what life was like in historical Alsace. It’s a rich collection of artifacts ranging from traditional costumes and furniture to pottery and religious items.
I loved how each room was meticulously designed. I felt like I was in an actual traditional Alsatian house. As you can see in the photo I took above, the bedroom looks as it did in the 18th century.
It’s an educational experience perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Plus, if you’re visiting in winter, it’s a great escape from the cold weather!
Address: 23-25 Quai Saint-Nicolas
Nearest Tram Stop: Porte de l’Hôpital (Lines A and D)
Get the Strasbourg City Pass and Save 20% on Admissions ➔
2. Musée de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame
The Musée de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame is most known for its remarkable art collection from the Upper Rhine Region. Pieces date from the early Middle Ages to the late 17th century.
Useful Tip: The Upper Rhine Region stretches from Basel, Switzerland to Bingen, Germany.
Here, you’ll find sculptures, stained glass panels from Peter Hemmel von Andlau, and drawings, many of which are from the Strasbourg Cathedral. Additionally, the museum houses a medieval garden that offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city streets.
But my favorite exhibit was the original drawings of the Strasbourg Cathedral.
When I visited, the work of Johannes Hültz’s was on display.
Useful Tip: The original drawings of the cathedral were done on parchment paper. They are sensitive to light and are only on display the first Sunday of every month from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Address: 3 Place du Château
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
3. MM Park France
Strasbourg’s MM Park France is one of the largest World War II museums in Europe.
It’s spread over an impressive area of 7000 square meters (75,437 square feet) and boasts a collection of 120 military vehicles, uniforms, and countless artifacts from the era.
They have six themed rooms: Alsace, Germany, Bulgaria, Russia, Italy, and Sussex Plan. Each one is dedicated to the events of World War II that took place in that specific country or region.
My favorite was the Sussex Plan, which detailed the secret operation that eventually led to the Normandy landing in June 1944. I also enjoyed the room dedicated to Alsace. Since I’ve been to so many places in the region, it was interesting to see how each city was impacted by the war.
And, if you’re looking for adventure, they also have 360-degree flight simulators!
Useful Tip: MM Park France is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) outside Strasbourg. So, if you don’t have time to visit, the Musée Historique de la Ville de Strasbourg also has an excellent World War II exhibit.
Address: 4 Rue Gutenberg
Nearest Bus Stop: République (Bus 72)
4. Musée Historique de la Ville de Strasbourg
If you love history, the Musée Historique de la Ville de Strasbourg (Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg) is for you.
You’ll wander through collections that tell the history of Strasbourg from the Middle Ages to the creation of the European Institutions.
You can dive into the city’s evolution through its artifacts and maps. There’s even a model of Strasbourg from 1727, so you can see what it used to look like.
I enjoyed the World War II exhibits. This is one of the few museums in town (other than MM Park France) that showed the impact it had on the city. It was so detailed that I spent a few hours in each section.
Address: 2 Rue du Vieux-Marché-aux-Poissons
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
Get the Strasbourg City Pass and Save 20% on Admissions ➔
5. Musée d’Art Moderne et Contemporain (MAMCS)
Established in 1998, the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art is home to an extensive collection of more than 18,000 works from the late 19th century to the present day. It’s one of France’s largest collections of contemporary and modern art.
From paintings and sculptures to photography, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the world of art. Some of the most esteemed artists include Gustave Doré and Monet.
But I enjoyed the work of Kandinsky and Gilles Aillaud. The combination of colors and shapes pulled me into the paintings, so much so that I spent several minutes admiring each piece.
After you’ve explored the museum, I recommend heading up to the restaurant. They have a beautiful terrace that overlooks La Petite France.
Address: 1 Place Hans-Jean-Arp
Nearest Tram Stop: Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
6. Strasbourg Cathedral
While it’s not a traditional museum, the Strasbourg Cathedral houses an impressive collection of artifacts and offers stunning views of the city.
Built over 300 years, it’s one of the most impressive churches in France. Its beautiful façade is adorned with intricate sculptures, while its single, towering spire reaches into the sky.
Inside, you’re greeted by the majestic sight of its stunning stained-glass windows that filter light into a kaleidoscope of colors. It’s, undoubtedly, one of the most picture-perfect places in town!
The cathedral also houses a remarkable 18-meter-high astronomical clock, a masterpiece that is a must-see for anyone visiting Strasbourg. And, at half past noon, the figurines come to life and parade around the clock.
Beyond its history, the cathedral also has a unique view of the city from its platform. It’s 330 steps to the top, but the panorama is worth it. There’s also a mini-museum with photos and information boards detailing the development of Strasbourg from the 17th century to the 19th century.
I have vertigo, and my legs trembled at the beginning. But when I realized that the staircase was enclosed, my vertigo subsided.
Useful Tip: There is no way to turn back, so be sure you can do the entire climb.
Address: Place de la Cathédrale
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
7. Tomi Ungerer Museum
The Tomi Ungerer Museum is dedicated to the works of Strasbourg-born illustrator and writer Tomi Ungerer. Opened in 2007, it is the only museum in France dedicated to an illustrator, making it a must-visit.
Here, you can delve into the diverse universe of Ungerer. From children’s books to satirical cartoons, it’s an impressive collection that is intriguing and amusing.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions.
When I visited, the work of Catherine Meurisse was on display. It was lighthearted, playful, and, as cliché as it might sound, unique.
I loved how it complimented the pieces of Ungerer. Her drawings had a way of connecting humans with nature, even in her imaginary landscapes.
Address: 2 Avenue de la Marseillaise
Nearest Tram Stop: République (Lines B, C, E, and F)
8. Archaeological Museum
Tucked away on the bottom floor of the Palais Rohan is the Archaeological Museum (Musée Archéologique).
Established in 1807, it’s one of the oldest museums in France dedicated to archaeology. Not only that, but it also offers a comprehensive chronicle of human history in Alsace from prehistoric times to the beginning of the Middle Ages.
Here, you’ll find a variety of artifacts, including Paleolithic tools, Bronze Age pottery, and Roman sculptures. But the most impressive exhibit was the collection of prehistoric rock carvings.
This is one of the oldest known forms of human expression, and I was in awe at how well-preserved these relics were.
Useful Tip: The Palais Rohan houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts), and the Archaeological Museum.
Address: 2 Place du Château
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
Get the Strasbourg City Pass and Save 20% on Admissions ➔
9. The Planetarium
If you’ve ever wanted to learn about astronomy and the night sky this is for you.
The Strasbourg Planetarium is located on the Université de Strasbourg’s campus, and, as of September 2023, it has re-opened its doors.
Under its spectacular dome display, you can journey across galaxies and explore celestial wonders.
They offer three 30-minute movies – Au-delà du Soleil (Beyond the Sun), Mondes Vivants (Living Worlds), and Noisettes (Hazelnuts).
I saw Au-delà du Soleil (Beyond the Sun), and I loved it!
It covered the basics of our solar system and then dived into exoplanets. The narration was easy to follow, and the giant screen made me feel like I was inside the movie, even though it wasn’t in 3D.
After the movie, a local expert showed Strasbourg’s night sky. He explained how the stars move and pinpointed different constellations. It was one of the most unique things I’ve done in Strasbourg.
Useful Tip: The movies are in French, but they offer an audio guide in English.
Address: 27 Boulevard de la Victoire
Nearest Tram Stop: Université (Lines C, E, and F)
10. Musée des Beaux-Arts
The Musée des Beaux-Arts of Strasbourg (Museum of Fine Arts) is the second museum on this list that’s in the grand Palais Rohan. This art sanctuary houses an exquisite collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to 1871.
The gallery’s walls are full of masterpieces by iconic artists such as Botticelli, Rubens, and Renoir.
If you visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the Musée des Beaux-Arts is a great addition to your itinerary. These two museums complement each other and offer a complete story of art in Strasbourg.
Useful Tip: The Palais Rohan houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts), and the Archaeological Museum.
Address: 2 Place du Château
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
11. Château Musée Vodou
The Château Musée Vodou houses the largest public collection of West African Vodou artifacts outside of Africa.
Today, it holds over 1,000 artifacts, including statues, masks, and fetishes, each with a unique history and significance.
Useful Tip: The photo I took above is of Kenessi, the only active fetish in the museum. It serves to protect the exhibits and the customers.
But that’s not all you’ll see here.
They also have films where you can watch different ceremonies.
Of the exhibits, my favorite was the masks belonging to the Gelede ritual.
During significant events, like harvest festivals, these masks are worn by dancers. They embody the power of women and pay homage to females in the community.
The Château Musée Vodou had several on display and showed the evolution of the masks along with Vodou. Most were simple wood carvings, but very colorful. There was also a film of a Gelede ritual at the end of the exhibit. It helped me better understand how these masks were used.
Address: 4 Rue de Koenigshoffen
Nearest Tram Stop: Porte Blanche (Line F)
Get the Strasbourg City Pass and Save 20% on Admissions ➔
12. Museum of Decorative Arts
The Museum of Decorative Arts (Musée des Arts Décoratifs) is the third museum housed in the Palais Rohan. Of the three, it was my favorite.
As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter an extensive collection. From furniture and ceramics to clocks and tapestries, many of these go back as far as the 17th century.
Each room was complete with period furniture and artwork.
Of the museums in the Palais Rohan, this is the only one that showed how the interior evolved over the centuries. I felt like I was walking through history and learning about it firsthand. They even left one of the original toilets fully intact!
Useful Tip: The Palais Rohan houses the Museum of Decorative Arts, Musée des Beaux-Arts (Museum of Fine Arts), and the Archaeological Museum.
Address: 2 Place du Château
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
13. European Parliament
Strasbourg’s history was turbulent. From wars to revolutions, it saw constant turmoil mixed in with periods of prosperity.
After World War II, Strasbourg returned to France under the Treaty of Versailles. And it was at this point the city became an emblem of unity and cooperation.
Shortly after, several European institutions, including the European Parliament, were installed.
You can tour the Parliamentarium Simone Veil (Visitor’s Center) and learn about the largest governing power in Europe. And, if you’re interested in seeing a live debate, you can sit in on a plenary session. It’s a chance to watch the democratic process in real-time.
There are 12 sessions per year, so if you want to see one, check the calendar ahead of your trip. Visits are free, and reservations are not required. But remember to bring a valid ID, like a passport, or you won’t be able to enter.
Address: Allée du Printemps
Nearest Tram Stop: Parlement Européen (Line E)
14. Cabinet des Estampes et des Dessins
Cabinet des Estampes et des Dessins (Prints and Drawings Room) is home to an extensive collection of over 200,000 works. From photographs and drawings to prints, it spans a whopping five centuries.
The galleries rotate regularly, so even if you’ve visited before, it’s worth stopping by a second time.
Some of my favorite collections include works by Honoré-Victorin Daumier and Hans Baldung Grien.
Admission is free, but you need a reservation.
To make a reservation, call +33 3 68 98 74 96 or email ContactEstampes[at]Strasbourg[dot]eu.
Address: 5 Place du Château
Nearest Tram Stop: Between Porte de l’Hôpital and Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)
15. Musée du Chocolat par Schaal
Welcome, chocolate lovers!
The Musée du Chocolat par Schaal will take you on a journey and show you how chocolate is made. You’ll learn how coca beans are transformed into decadent bars with live demonstrations. And since the Schaal factory specializes in hazelnuts and chocolate, you’ll also learn about pralines.
The exhibits are very interactive, and at the end of each section, there is a little quiz where you can test what you’ve learned. I even spoke with some of the bakers, and they showed me what they were making!
But the best part was the samples. They have an endless number of treats that you can try, so needless to say, I ate as much as I could.
The museum also hosts chocolate-themed workshops where you can make your own treats.
Useful Tip: Before you enter the museum, you’ll get a little box that you can fill with chocolates. But don’t fill it up right away. I sampled everything first, then picked my favorites.
Address: Rue du Pont-du-Péage
Nearest Tram Stop: Graffenstaden (Line A)
Get the Strasbourg City Pass and Save 20% on Admissions ➔
Map of Strasbourg’s Museums
Below is a map of all the museums on this list. Click the map to open Google Maps.
Tips for Visiting Strasbourg’s Museums
✓ If you plan on visiting more than three museums, I recommend the Strasbourg Museum Pass. There’s a three-day pass (€20) and a one-day pass (€16). With either, you’ll have free entry to all publicly owned museums. Passes are sold at participating museums or the tourist office. If you’re visiting for a few days, buy the three-day pass. I bought the one-day pass and felt pressed for time.
✓ If you don’t plan on visiting more than three museums, I recommend the Strasbourg City Pass. It offers discounts on various activities, including many museums on this list. I preferred this pass to the Strasbourg Museum Pass because it had more things to do, and I didn’t have to rush from museum to museum.
✓ If you’re visiting more places in Alsace, I recommend the Pass Alsace. It offers free entry to 45 sites in the region, including three museums in Strasbourg.
✓ Check opening times. Most museums are closed on Mondays and close for lunch every day, so plan your visit accordingly.
✓ Wear comfortable shoes. Most museums are on several levels, and you’ll have to walk a lot.
✓ Ask for an audio guide in English if you don’t speak French.
✓ Go early in the morning or after lunch. These are the two least busiest times.
✓ If you don’t speak French download Google Translate. Why? Not every exhibit has an English description. And not every museum has an audio guide in English. So, if you have Google Translate on your phone, you can use the camera function to hover over the descriptions and translate them on the spot!
Conclusion
Strasbourg’s museums are an absolute treasure trove, filled with art, history, science, and even chocolate. And a visit to at least one is an absolute must.
My three favorites were the Musée Alsacien, the Musée de l’Oeuvre Notre-Dame, and the Planetarium. Each offered something that wasn’t elsewhere, and I learned far more than I had expected.
So, now all that’s left to do is plan your stay in Strasbourg. Why not start with a two-day trip?
Read More Articles About France
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