Strasbourg lies about two hours west of Paris via France’s fast train. Known for its popular Christmas markets, this delightful city is a great choice for a day trip from Paris any time of year. It offers up a slice of French and German culture all wrapped up in one. On a recent trip to Paris, my husband and I spent one day discovering Strasbourg, where every day is Christmas.
FAST TRAIN
Traveling to this lovely city from Paris is easy as 1,2, 3. I booked train tickets on RENFE (France’s fast train) a couple of months before our trip and I advise anyone who plans to take this route to do the same. We packed up some breakfast to eat on the train and in less than 2 hours, we arrived in Strasbourg from Gare De L’Est in Paris.
TAKE A CANAL CRUISE
The perfect way to orientate yourself with this city is to take a canal cruise. We chose the company, BATORAMA, and booked it before we left home. Their cruises fill up quickly. They offer different cruise options depending on what you’re looking for. We took the standard one-hour and ten-minute cruise and it was perfect. I timed it so we would go on it soon after we arrived.
This tour starts downtown and winds through the heart of 3 symbolic districts of Strasbourg: Grand Isle, Neustadt, and The European Quarter.
First, we cruised through the Grand Isle or Big Island, which is classified as World Heritage by UNESCO. Its buildings of exceptional architecture are an example of a Rhenish medieval city. At the foot of the Palais Rohan, let yourself be charmed by the district of La Petite with its cobblestone streets, canals, and well-preserved half-timbered homes.
Next up is Neustadt, which was built during the annexation of Alsace-Moselle by Germany between 1871 and 1918. Neustadt, or “new city”, multiplied the area of Strasbourg.
Last but not least, you pass through THE EUROPEAN QUARTER. After the Second World War, in a spirit of European reconciliation, Strasbourg was chosen in 1949 to serve as the headquarters of the Council of Europe.
After our train ride and cruise, it was time for some authentic Alsatian cuisine.
ALSATIAN LUNCH
We ate at a traditional “winstub” and it did not disappoint. Winstub is a type of bistro that serves traditional Alsatian cuisine. Patrons eat in a casual, homey atmosphere at tables draped with red chequered tablecloths. Our choice was Le Tire Bouchon and it did not disappoint.
With our bellies full, it was time to do some exploring on foot. First stop…
STRASBOURG CATHEDRAL AND SQUARE
Strasbourg Cathedral stretches into the sky and is in the midst of a bustling square. Located in Strasbourg Square, It is visible far across the plains of Alsace and can be seen from as far off as the Vosges Mountains or the Black Forest on the other side of the Rhine.
Considered to be among the finest examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture, it was once (from 1647 to 1874) the world’s tallest building at 466 feet. Today it is the sixth-tallest church in the world and the highest still-standing extant structure built entirely in the Middle Ages.
For a fee, you can climb the steps and be greeted by an amazing view of the area. Just breathtaking!
PRETZEL TIME
When in Alsace, one must have a pretzel.
We took a break from walking around at a local cafe and, of course, partook in a delicious pretzel with a hot beverage. Cappuccino for me, espresso for hubby.
SOME CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
Even though we were in Strasbourg in the Fall, every day is Christmas in this special place. Decorations adorn the entire city even though their famous markets have not opened yet.
We found one shop, Un Noel En Alsace, and bought some Christmas ornaments to bring home.
Unfortunately, our day was coming to an end and our train was waiting. We hope to return again one day!
Auf Wiedersehen Strasbourg!
To read about my tips on having a perfect Paris vacation, click here.