5-Day Enchanting Strasbourg Christmas Escape in France
Strasbourg, France
5 days
About Strasbourg, France
Discover the charm of Strasbourg, France, a captivating blend of French and German cultures. Nestled on the Rhine River, this city boasts a rich history, evident in its UNESCO-listed Grand Île. Marvel at the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and explore the picturesque Petite France district with its half-timbered houses and winding canals. Savor the region's unique gastronomy, including the famous tarte flambée, in one of the traditional Winstubs. Visit the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, reflecting the city's significance in European politics. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Strasbourg promises an unforgettable journey.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering the Palais Rohan and the Ill River
Morning
Visit the Palais Rohan, a former residence of the prince-bishops and cardinals of the House of Rohan. It now houses three museums.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the Palais Rohan. Try the local sausages and sauerkraut.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour on the Ill River. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city and its landmarks.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant near the river. Try the local fish dishes, such as trout or pike.
Evening
Visit the Place Kléber, the largest square in Strasbourg, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Enjoy the Christmas lights and decorations.
Day 3
Visiting the European Institutions and the Parc de l'Orangerie
Morning
Visit the European Parliament building. Take a guided tour to learn more about the European Union and its institutions.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the European Parliament. Try the local cheese, such as Munster or Tomme.
Afternoon
Visit the Parc de l'Orangerie, a beautiful park with a small zoo and a lake. Enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a boat for a ride on the lake.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant near the park. Try the local game dishes, such as venison or wild boar.
Evening
Visit the Strasbourg Opera House. Enjoy a performance of a Christmas-themed opera or ballet.
Day 4
Experiencing Alsatian Traditions and the Barrage Vauban
Morning
Visit the Alsatian Museum, which showcases the rural life and traditions of the Alsace region.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the museum. Try the local pastries, such as kougelhopf or bretzel.
Afternoon
Visit the Barrage Vauban, a historic dam with a panoramic terrace offering great views of the city.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant near the dam. Try the local duck dishes, such as duck confit or duck breast.
Evening
Visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market again. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and try some more local Christmas specialties.
Day 5
Enjoying Nature and Architecture in Strasbourg
Morning
Visit the Botanical Garden of the University of Strasbourg, one of the oldest Botanical Gardens in France.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the Botanical Garden. Try the local vegetable dishes, such as ratatouille or vegetable tarte.
Afternoon
Visit the Neustadt district, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive German architecture.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant in the Neustadt district. Try the local beer, such as Kronenbourg or Fischer.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Strasbourg Observatory. Enjoy the starry sky and learn more about astronomy.
Attractions in Itinerary (14)
1Strasbourg Cathedral
One of the most significant cathedrals in France, known for its impressive gothic architecture and the panoramic view from its platform.
2Petite France
A historic quarter known for its well-preserved half-timbered homes, canals, and cobblestone streets.
3Strasbourg Christmas Market
One of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe, offering a wide range of gifts, decorations, and local culinary specialties.
4Palais Rohan
An 18th-century palace housing three museums and offering stunning architectural details.
5Ill River
The Ill River is a tributary of the Rhine River, flowing through the city of Strasbourg. It offers beautiful views and boat tours.
6Place Kléber
The largest square in Strasbourg, surrounded by shops and filled with historical monuments.
7European Parliament
The European Parliament's official seat, offering guided tours to learn about the European Union's role and operations.
8Parc de l'Orangerie
A large park offering a zoo, boating lake, and beautiful gardens. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
9Strasbourg Opera House
The Strasbourg Opera House, also known as the Opéra national du Rhin, is a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and other theatrical productions. It's a must-visit for culture and architecture enthusiasts.
10Alsatian Museum
The Alsatian Museum is a cultural journey through old Strasbourg homes. It showcases the daily life, traditions, and skills of the rural population of Alsace in the 18th and 19th centuries.
11Barrage Vauban
The Barrage Vauban, or Vauban Dam, is a bridge, weir, and defensive work erected in the 17th century. It offers panoramic views over the Petite France and the covered bridges.
12Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden of Strasbourg is a beautiful and tranquil space, home to a vast array of plant species. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
13Neustadt
A district known for its grand boulevards, squares and monumental buildings from the German Imperial period.
14Strasbourg Observatory
The Strasbourg Observatory is one of the oldest observatories in France. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the universe and learn about the history of astronomy.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Choucroute garnie
A popular Alsatian dish in Strasbourg, it consists of sauerkraut cooked with various meats and potatoes.
Tarte flambée
Also known as Flammekueche, it's a thin crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons. It's a must-try dish in Strasbourg.
Coq au Riesling
This is a local variation of the famous French dish coq au vin, where chicken is cooked in Riesling wine, a popular wine in the Alsace region.
Baeckeoffe
A traditional Alsatian casserole made with marinated meats and potatoes, slow-cooked in white wine.
Kouglof
A distinctive Alsatian cake, often served during the Christmas season. It's a yeast-based cake, baked in a special mold, and usually contains raisins, almonds, and cherry brandy.
Munster cheese
A soft cheese made from unpasteurized cow's milk in the Alsace region. It's known for its strong taste and smell.
Quiche Lorraine
Although it originates from the Lorraine region, it's popular in Strasbourg. It's a savory pie with a filling of eggs, cream, and lardons.
Riesling
Riesling is a white grape variety which originated in the Rhine region. Alsace Riesling is dry, with a delicate, fruity aroma.
Gewürztraminer
A white wine that is a signature of the Alsace region. It's known for its strong lychee flavor and floral aroma.
Mirabelle Plum Brandy
A fruit brandy made from Mirabelle plums, a specialty of the Lorraine and Alsace regions.
Bredele
Small, sweet biscuits traditionally baked at Christmas time in Alsace. They come in various shapes and flavors, including almond, butter, and spice.
Pain d'épices
A traditional French spice bread, similar to gingerbread. In Alsace, it's often made with honey and served during the holiday season.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Strasbourg, France, is from May to September when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, if you want to experience the famous Strasbourg Christmas Market, you should plan your visit in December. Just keep in mind that it can be quite cold during this time. Spring and early autumn are also beautiful with fewer tourists, making sightseeing more enjoyable.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 8 | Wed | WWII Victory Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
July 14 | Sun | Bastille Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Armistice Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Tram
Strasbourg has a comprehensive tram network with six lines (A, B, C, D, E, and F) that can take you almost anywhere in the city. It operates from early morning until midnight.
Bus
The city's bus network complements the tram service, reaching areas that the tram does not cover. The bus network operates on the same hours as the tram.
Bicycle
Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes and bike rental services, including Vélhop, the city's bike-sharing program.
Car
While driving in Strasbourg is possible, it's not recommended due to the city's extensive pedestrian zones and limited parking. However, car rental services are available if needed.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Strasbourg. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Strasbourg. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks located throughout the city.
Walk
Strasbourg's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's top attractions, including the Cathedral and Petite France, are within walking distance of each other.
Boat
Strasbourg is crisscrossed by canals, and taking a boat tour can be a pleasant way to see the city. Batorama offers boat tours that take you around the city's main sights.
Train
Strasbourg's main train station, Gare de Strasbourg, offers connections to other cities in France and Europe. It's a convenient option if you're planning to take day trips outside the city.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 112, 15; Fire: 112, 18; Police: 112, 17
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Strasbourg, France as a first time visitor
1
Strasbourg is located in the Alsace region of France, near the border with Germany.
2
The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture.
3
The official language is French, but many locals also speak Alsatian, a dialect of German.
4
The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
5
Strasbourg has a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) are warm with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 45°F (0°C to 7°C).
6
The city is known for its Christmas market, which is one of the oldest and largest in Europe. It usually runs from late November to late December.
7
Strasbourg is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental services and dedicated bike lanes.
8
The city has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses. A tourist pass can be purchased for unlimited travel.
9
Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it is customary to leave a small amount if you are satisfied with the service.
10
Strasbourg is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1).
11
The city is known for its gastronomy, particularly its Alsatian cuisine. Don't miss out on trying local specialties like tarte flambée and choucroute garnie.
12
Strasbourg has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
13
The city is safe, but like any major city, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
14
Strasbourg has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets.
15
The city is home to several universities and has a large student population.
16
Strasbourg has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries.
17
The city is also known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
18
Strasbourg is a great base for exploring the Alsace region, known for its vineyards and picturesque villages.
19
The city has a mix of French and German influences, which is evident in its architecture, culture, and food.
20
Strasbourg is a sustainable city with a strong focus on environmental conservation and green initiatives.
Basic French to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bonjour | bon-zhoor | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Au revoir | oh ruh-vwar | Leaving someone |
Please | S'il vous plaît | see voo play | Making a request |
Thank you | Merci | mair-see | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Oui | wee | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Non | non | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Excusez-moi | ex-koo-zay mwah | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Je suis désolé | juh swee day-zo-lay | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Parlez-vous anglais? | par-lay voo on-glay? | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Je ne comprends pas | juh nuh kom-prond pah | Expressing confusion |
Where is...? | Où est...? | oo ay...? | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Toilettes | twah-let | Looking for the restroom |
Help | Aide | ed | In case of emergency |
Food | Nourriture | noo-ree-toor | Looking for food |
Water | Eau | oh | Asking for water |
Beer | Bière | byair | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vin | van | Ordering wine |
How much does it cost? | Combien ça coûte? | kom-byen sa koot? | Asking for the price |
I would like... | Je voudrais... | juh voo-dray... | Making a request |
Good night | Bonne nuit | bon nwee | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear (5 pairs)
Socks (5 pairs)
T-shirts (5)
Long sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sleepwear
Light jacket or sweater
Raincoat or umbrella
Swimsuit (if applicable)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Sunscreen
Makeup (if applicable)
Prescription medications
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Eye mask and earplugs
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide and map
Notebook and pen
Reusable shopping bag
Weather Conditions
Strasbourg, France, experiences a temperate oceanic climate, which means it has four distinct seasons, each with its own weather patterns. In the summer months (June to August), temperatures can reach up to 77°F (25°C), making it a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions. However, it's also the city's wettest season, so pack an umbrella or raincoat. Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures, ranging from 44°F to 64°F (7°C to 18°C). This season is known for its beautiful fall foliage, especially in the Parc de l'Orangerie. Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping to 32°F (0°C) or below. Snow is common, making it a picturesque time to visit, especially during the Christmas season when the city hosts its famous Christmas market. However, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring (March to May) is a pleasant time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 64°F (8°C to 18°C). The city comes alive with blooming flowers, but there can still be occasional rain showers, so keep that umbrella handy. Regardless of when you visit, remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Enjoy your visit to Strasbourg!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 6° / -1° | January is the coldest month in Strasbourg, with occasional snowfall. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter charm of the city. |
February | 7° / -1° | February is still cold with a chance of snow. It's a great time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
March | 13° / 2° | March sees the beginning of spring with slightly warmer temperatures. The city starts to bloom, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
April | 17° / 5° | April offers mild temperatures and the city is in full bloom. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens. |
May | 21° / 9° | May brings pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with spring colors. |
June | 24° / 12° | June marks the start of summer with long, sunny days. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and enjoying the city's outdoor cafes. |
July | 26° / 14° | July is the warmest month in Strasbourg. It's a great time to enjoy the city's summer festivals and events. |
August | 26° / 14° | August is still warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings. It's also a great time to enjoy a boat ride on the Ill River. |
September | 21° / 11° | September brings cooler temperatures and the start of autumn. The city's parks and gardens are beautiful with fall colors. |
October | 17° / 7° | October is a great time to visit Strasbourg for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The city is beautiful with autumn colors. |
November | 11° / 3° | November is chilly with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the city's indoor attractions. |
December | 7° / 0° | December is cold with a festive atmosphere. The city's Christmas market, one of the oldest in Europe, is a must-visit. |
Did you know?
Places near by Strasbourg, France
Europa-Park
Europe's second largest theme park, featuring rides and attractions based on European countries.
Black Forest
A mountainous region in southwest Germany, known for its dense, evergreen forests and picturesque villages.
Heidelberg Castle
A mix of styles from Gothic to Renaissance, this majestic ruin offers panoramic views over Heidelberg.
Basel Zoo
Switzerland's oldest and largest zoo, home to a wide range of species.
Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg
A restored 12th-century mountain fortress with panoramic views over the Alsace plain.
Titisee Lake
A beautiful lake in the southern Black Forest, popular for boating and swimming.
Freiburg Minster
A Gothic cathedral with a 116m tower offering views over the Black Forest.
Mercedes-Benz Museum
A futuristic museum tracing the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
Château de Chantilly
A historic château featuring an art gallery, a chapel, and extensive gardens.
Zurich Lake
A large lake offering a range of water sports, surrounded by picturesque towns and villages.
