Why Strasbourg?
Strasbourg is a striking example of European architecture, blending French and German influences in every building and street. Just two hours from Paris by train, this city offers a unique cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and lively street scenes.
It’s an ideal day trip for travelers from Paris looking to explore a city that combines history, beauty, and tranquility. Stepping into this district is like stepping back in time to medieval Europe.
Strasbourg Architecture
Victor Hugo believed architecture to be the purest expression of the human soul, a concept fully realized in Strasbourg’s distinct architecture. This city blends French and German styles, offering a visual journey through its rich history.
Strasbourg Cathedral is at the core of this architectural wonder. Its high spire and detailed facades are prominent in the cityscape. They display the skill of medieval stonemasons and still draw admiration today. This Cathedral is a must see for those whos heart is aching seeing Paris’s Notre Dame in scaffolding.
“La Petite France” adds to the city’s charm with its traditional timber-framed houses, sloping roofs, and wooden balconies. These elements have been carefully preserved, reflecting the area’s medieval urban design.
Contemporary structures like the European Parliament buildings bring a modern aspect to Strasbourg, linking historical roots to current times. This mix of old and new confirms Hugo’s view, making Strasbourg a magnet for those who love architecture and culture.
Eating in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a food lover’s paradise, renowned for its unique blend of French and German culinary traditions. The city’s signature dish is choucroute garnie, a hearty meal of sauerkraut topped with various meats, such as sausages, ham, and sometimes even potatoes. Another local favorite is tarte flambée, also known as flammekueche. This dish features a thin crust topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, offering a deliciously crisp bite.
For those with a sweet tooth, Strasbourg does not disappoint. The city is famous for its kougelhopf, a traditional Alsacian cake that is often enjoyed as a breakfast treat. This brioche-like pastry is typically baked in a distinctive circular mold and dotted with raisins or almonds.
Finally, wine enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Strasbourg is part of the Alsace wine region, known for its excellent white wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer. These wines are perfect for complementing the local cuisine or enjoying on their own while exploring the city’s charming wine bars.
Strasbourg Museums
Strasbourg is a haven for museum enthusiasts, with a rich array of options that reflect the city’s diverse history and culture. One of the standout museums is the Musée Alsacien. This museum offers a deep dive into the traditional life of the Alsace region through costumes, artifacts, and reconstructed home interiors.
Another key attraction is the Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Located near the picturesque Petite France district, this museum showcases a wide range of modern masterpieces from painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia installations. It’s a must-visit for those interested in the evolution of contemporary art.
For history buffs, the Palais Rohan houses three museums in one grand 18th-century palace: the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Museum of Fine Arts. Here, visitors can explore everything from ancient Roman artifacts to medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.
The Tomi Ungerer Museum is dedicated to the Strasbourg-born artist and illustrator Tomi Ungerer and offers an extensive collection of his satirical sketches and children’s book illustrations. This museum provides unique insights into Ungerer’s creative genius and his varied body of work.
Each museum in Strasbourg offers a unique glimpse into different facets of European art, history, and culture, making the city a rich tapestry for exploration.
Strasbourg’s Park and Gardens
Strasbourg is not only rich in history and culture, but also boasts beautiful parks and gardens that provide peaceful escapes within the city. A highlight is the Parc de l’Orangerie, Strasbourg’s oldest park. Located near the European Parliament, it features a small zoo, a boating lake, and stately trees that make it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Another notable spot is the Jardin des Deux Rives, which spans across the border between France and Germany, symbolizing unity. This expansive garden is known for its modern landscape design and hosts various cultural events throughout the year.
For a more intimate experience, visit the Jardin botanique de l’Université de Strasbourg. This botanical garden, belonging to the university, offers a variety of plant species and a quaint greenhouse. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and those interested in botanical studies. Each of these green spaces adds to the charm and livability of Strasbourg, making it a city that beautifully blends urban life with nature.
What to Bring Home from Strasbourg
Strasbourg offers a delightful array of souvenirs that capture the essence of this culturally rich city. A must-buy is the traditional Alsace pottery, known for its colorful, hand-painted designs that make perfect gifts or keepsakes. Another popular choice is the stork motif items, from plush toys to ceramics; the stork is a symbol of Alsace and prominently featured in local folklore.
For food enthusiasts, Strasbourg is famous for its culinary delights. You can bring home local mustards, foie gras, or the renowned Alsatian wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer. These make excellent gifts for those who appreciate fine food and drink.
Finally, don’t forget to pick up some gingerbread or pain d’épices from local bakeries. This spiced bread is a treat that’s closely associated with Strasbourg, especially during the Christmas season. Each of these souvenirs offers a taste or glimpse of Strasbourg, making them perfect for remembering your trip or sharing the experience with friends and family.
How to Get from Paris to Strasbourg
Traveling from Paris to Strasbourg is both easy and enjoyable, offering several convenient options. By train, the journey is the quickest and most popular method. From Paris’ Gare de l’Est, you can catch a high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse). The trip takes about two hours and offers scenic views of the French countryside. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to find a time that suits your schedule.
If you prefer to drive, the route is straightforward. Take the A4 motorway east from Paris, a drive of about four and a half hours, depending on traffic. This option gives you the flexibility to stop along the way and explore other small towns or attractions.
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, various bus services run between Paris and Strasbourg. The bus journey can take around five to seven hours. While slower, it is significantly cheaper than the train or driving, especially if booked in advance.
Each mode of transport offers its own advantages, depending on your budget and preferences. Whether you choose speed, scenery, or savings, getting to Strasbourg from Paris is hassle-free and straightforward.
Additionally, I recomend using the Rome2Rio app or website to plan day trips. Check them out, here.
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This post was all about why you should go from Paris to Strasbourg.
