Strasbourg: sights and interesting places (with photo). The best sights of Strasbourg with photos and descriptions What to see and where to go in Strasbourg

Basic moments

The first human settlements on the site of modern Strasbourg date back to 6000 BC. e., in the XIV century BC. e. Celtic tribes settled here. From the 9th to the middle of the 20th century, Strasbourg repeatedly passed from France to Germany and back. Only from November 23, 1944, the city permanently belongs to the Republic of France. Among the famous personalities of Strasbourg, it is worth highlighting the first European book printer Johannes Gutenbeng, who lived here from 1434 to 1444.

Today Strasbourg is one of three cities in the world, along with Geneva and New York, which are not the capitals of states, but where the headquarters of international organizations are located: the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights, the International Institute for Human Rights, the European Parliament, the European Science Foundation, European Youth Center, etc.

Strasbourg has long been an important industrial center of France, but the modern economy of Strasbourg is based on such areas of economic activity as creative activity (art, cinema, music, press, architecture, design, etc.), medical technology, tourism services and technology in the field of mobile devices.

Strasbourg is one of the most important tourist centers in France, thanks to its rich historical past, reflected in the city's architecture and unique museum expositions, as well as the current status of the "parliamentary capital" of the European Union.

On the streets of the city, in addition to French, you can often hear German speech, as many citizens or immigrants from neighboring Germany live and work here. The staff of hotels, most restaurants, gift shops and other service establishments speaks excellent English.

Climate and weather

The climate of Strasbourg belongs to the continental type, characterized by a significant daily and seasonal temperature range. Winters in Strasbourg are cold and snowy. In some years, the air temperature can drop below -15 ... -20 °С. Steady warm weather comes only in May and can last until the end of September. The average daytime summer air temperature is kept at +23…+25 °С. A feature of Strasbourg is the almost complete absence of wind, due to the proximity of the mountains. The greatest amount of precipitation falls between May and August, so in the summer it is stuffy and humid in the city, which is quite difficult for many people suffering from heart disease. The best time to visit Strasbourg is the end of summer - the beginning of autumn.

Nature

The main natural decoration of the city is the full-flowing and rather wide Ile River, whose waters often cause flooding of some quarters of flat Strasbourg. Ile overflows its banks most often in spring during the period of snowmelt and sometimes during summer heavy rains. Also not far from the city flows the river Rhine, which is connected to the Isle by a system of canals.

The Vosges and Black Forest mountains approach Strasbourg from two sides, but the city itself is characterized by the almost complete absence of height differences, only in the historical center you can see low hills, on which traces of the first settlements on the territory of modern Strasbourg were found.

The abundance of water arteries and dense old buildings did not allow the creation of numerous parks and public gardens here, as was customary in other French cities, even the magnificent Botanical Gardens were created on the site of the cemetery at the monastery of St. Nicholas in 1619. The Strasbourg Botanical Gardens are one of the oldest gardens in France (after Montpellier Park). Today, more than 15,000 plants grow here, brought from different parts of the globe. The Strasbourg Botanical Gardens is a great place for an introductory and contemplative holiday in the bosom of amazing nature.

Attractions

Being at the crossroads of Latin and Germanic cultures, Strasbourg inherited magnificent architecture. The most picturesque quarter of the city is considered by many to be the so-called "Little France", consisting of small houses built between numerous canals. Covered bridges (Les Ponts Couverts) are thrown across the canals, the best view of which opens from the side of the Vauban dam.

Walking along the old streets of the city, you will certainly pay attention to the colorful half-timbered houses, the distinctive feature of which is the inclined beams that are visible on the facade of the buildings. This design prevails in houses that have survived from the 15th-16th centuries. At that time, it was the most perfect type of buildings, capable of resisting the pressure of the Ilya, which often overflowed its banks. The most famous example of half-timbered architecture in Strasbourg is the Kammerzell House (Maison Kammerzell), built in 1427. In 1589, all 75 windows of the building were decorated with unique carved frames, on which you can see a variety of mythical and biblical characters, signs of the Zodiac, musicians and figures depicting the five human senses. Also on the facade of the building are carved figures of women: Faith, Hope and Love. The inside of the house is decorated with frescoes.

Strasbourg is widely known for its Gothic Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame). The monumental and at the same time elegant building was built over three centuries. And from 1439 until the middle of the 19th century, it was the tallest building both in Europe and throughout the Christian world. In addition to the magnificent facade of the building, decorated with hundreds of statues, most of which date back to the 13th-15th centuries, and the beautiful interior decoration of the temple, tourists are attracted by the amazing Astronomical Clock. First watch Cathedral were created in 1354. The ones we can see today date back to 1842. Every day in front of the assembled audience at 12:30 there is a small performance with moving figures of a person going through all stages of life from a child to an old man. Above this man are 12 apostles, and at the very top is the figure of Jesus Christ.

If you are interested in the historical and cultural past of Strasbourg, then you will be happy to visit the Roch Palace (Le Palais Rohan), which today houses the three most important museums of the city: the archaeological museum (Musée Archéologique), the Museum of Fine Arts (Musée des Beaux-Arts) and the Museum of Decorative Arts (Musée des Arts Décoratifs).

Food

On the streets of Strasbourg you will find just an unimaginable number of all kinds of restaurants, cafes, snack bars, bakeries, pastry shops and other types of places where you can eat deliciously. Pay attention to winstubs, which are small family-style restaurants. It is in such places that you can taste real Alsatian cuisine. The most famous restaurant in Strasbourg is Maison Kammerzell, located in the architectural monument of the same name.

Alsatian cuisine is famous for its centuries-old tradition and richness of ingredients. While in Strasbourg, it’s a sin not to try at least one of the famous Alsatian pies: onion pie (Tarte à l′oignon), cheese and brisket pie “Flammeküeche” (Flammeküeche) or sweet pie bizarrely shaped “Kugelhopf” (Kougelhopf). Also very popular among sweet pies is tarte aux quetsches, a unique variety of plums that produces huge sweet dark purple fruits, widely grown in the orchards of Alsace. Another gastronomic celebrity of Strasbourg is foie gras (Foie gras), which is prepared here not only from duck liver, but also from the liver of a goose, pigeon, with the addition of pork or white poultry meat, and a delicious dish of veal liver is called "surlaverla" (Surlawerla).

All meals will be accompanied by a wide selection of drinks, among which, of course, wine, schnapps, Gewurztraminer brandy, raspberry brandy and beer occupy the leading positions. And on the eve of Christmas, hot mulled wine is offered everywhere, the local feature of which is that it is made not from red, but from white wine.

The proximity of Germany could not but affect the brewing traditions of Strasbourg, in the numerous breweries of which this intoxicating drink has been created for more than 700 years. Beer production at factories and family breweries of Alsace occupies about 70% of the French market. Of the major producers, it is worth highlighting the family-type company Meteor, which carefully monitors the observance of all ancient traditions in the production of beer. The restaurants of the city sell the following varieties of this company: Wendelinus, Meteor Pils and Mortimer.

Among the Alsatian wines, it is worth giving preference to white wines: Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Muscat and Tokay Pinot Gris.

Most restaurants in the city specialize in traditional local cuisine, but you can easily find Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Mexican, Italian, Greek, Japanese and other restaurants on the streets of Strasbourg. The city also has a number of establishments specializing in vegetarian food: Au Potiron, Pas Loin Du Coin, Poele de carotte and even the fast food restaurant Pur et Caetera.

Accommodation

With magnificent old architecture and being the "parliamentary capital" of the European Union, Strasbourg attracts millions of tourists every year. Therefore, despite the huge number of various hotels, family-type hotels, B&Bs, etc., it is recommended to take care of your place of residence in advance.

The cost of a double room in 4-star hotels in the city varies from 200 to 415 €. Paradoxically, in the only 5-star hotel Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile, there is not a single room more expensive than 260 €. The average price for the "troika" is about 80-100 €. In more modest "kopeck pieces" and apart-hotels you can stay for 50-70 €.

There are also several youth hostels in Strasbourg: Auberge de Jeunesse du Parc du Rhin, Auberge de Jeunesse Rene Cassin, Ciarus, Nuit d "Hotel, etc. The cost of a place in the hostels of the city varies from 22 to 30 €.

Entertainment and recreation

Throughout the year, Strasbourg welcomes participants and spectators of numerous festivals, fairs and other cultural events. Among the most popular events, it is worth highlighting the Night of Museums (Le nuit des Musées), the film festival "Cinema Festival" (La Fete du cinéma), music Festival Music Festival (La Fete de la Musique), Golden Jazz Festival (Jazz d "Or) and, of course, the Christmas Market (Marché de Noël). Every July evening paints the houses, fountains and churches of the city in thousands of lights The doomsday "City in Lights" (L "Ill aux Lumieres) is always accompanied by musical accompaniment.

The cultural life of Strasbourg is rich and varied. Everyone can easily find entertainment to their liking, be it an original theatrical performance, a dance show, a cabaret, music concerts of all directions, etc. The following places are very popular with tourists: Le Kafteur, Au Camionneur, Le Cheval Blanc, Le Point D "Eau , Pôle Sud, etc.

In Strasbourg, you will find many nightclubs, discos, themed bars open until late, bar-barges moored along the Ile promenade, cafes with live music, etc. Most of these establishments are concentrated in the historical part of the city and in the Krutenau quarter.

If you are traveling with children, be sure to visit Le Vaisseau, an educational and entertaining science center. Visitors pass through 6 worlds (construction, water, human body, animal world, garden, mysteries of image and sound) with more than 130 interactive elements. The entrance ticket for adults is 8 €, for children from 3 to 18 years old - 7 €, but on Saturdays tickets for everyone cost 6 €, daily after 16.30 - 3 €. The center is open daily, except Monday, from 10.00 to 18.00.

Most active tourists enjoy walking around Strasbourg, where you can visit the wine yards of the region, take a boat trip on the waters of the Ile and the Rhine, play golf in an upscale country club, fly in a small pleasure plane, etc.

Purchases

On the streets of old Strasbourg you will find a number of shops selling clothes, shoes, accessories and cosmetics from world famous brands. In the largest shopping malls cities (Monoprix, Rivetoile, Galeries Lafayette and Auchan) you can buy all kinds of goods, from clothing to children's toys, household appliances, etc.

For memorable gifts, you should go to one of the souvenir shops located on rue Mercière (Maison Bollinger, Reflets d "Alsace, etc.). They sell excellent ceramics and dishes, decorative pillows with embroidery, as well as liquors, wines etc. The traditional decoration of souvenirs is the image of the symbol of Alsace, the stork.

If you are in Strasbourg on the eve of Christmas, be sure to visit the annual Christmas Market, which is held on the square in front of the Cathedral, as well as on the numerous streets and squares adjacent to it, which turn into continuous shopping malls. Enjoying the joyful atmosphere of the upcoming holiday, you can buy original gifts, Christmas decorations, antiques, works by local artists, as well as try original Alsatian treats (sweet waffles and donuts, gingerbread, salted pretzels, etc.).

Transport

From Russian cities to Strasbourg, it is most convenient to get either by air or by combining air and rail transport.

Strasbourg International Airport (Aéroport International de Strasbourg-Entzheim) is located about 10 km from the city centre. Since there are no direct flights, you need to make a transfer in Paris, Amsterdam, Prague or Rome. Minimum cost round trip ticket is 310 €. Between the airport and Strasbourg, there is a TER commuter rail connection. The ticket price is 4 €.

High-speed TGV trains connect Strasbourg with a number of European cities. By the way, Strasbourg ranks second among French cities (after Paris) in terms of the number of train connections. Travel time between Strasbourg and Paris is 2 hours 20 minutes.

The urban public transport of Strasbourg is represented by buses (30 urban and 11 suburban routes) and trams (6 lines: A, B, C, D, E, F).

The cost of 1 ticket is 1.6 €, 10 tickets - 12.9 €, a round-trip ticket for 1 day - 3 €, a day ticket for urban transport and suburban TER train lines - 4 €. Tickets are sold at newspaper and tobacco kiosks, at the offices of CTS, which provides work public transport Strasbourg, and in special machines at tram stops.

If you are traveling by car, then in order not to waste time on city traffic jams, it is advisable to leave it in the parking lot and continue to travel by tram. In this case, you can purchase a single parking ticket and a Park-and-Ride (P+R) public transport ticket to and from the historic city center at a cost of 3.7 €. Parking in the center of Strasbourg is paid from Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 8 pm.

Many tourists prefer to move around the city and its environs by bike. Bicycle rental in Strasbourg is handled by Vélhop. The cost of an hour of rental is 1 €, a day - 5 €, a week - 15 €. The security deposit for the bike is 150 € (refundable after the bike is returned).

It should be noted that almost all the streets of the historic city center are pedestrian, but short distances do not tire inquisitive travelers at all, allowing you to fully enjoy the beauty of the ancient city.

Connection

City pay phones are located in many public places in the central part of Strasbourg. Phone cards can be purchased at newspaper and tobacco shops.

To connect to a mobile operator, you must contact the company's office. In Strasbourg, you will find a range of both large pan-French providers and smaller local providers. When connecting, you must have a passport with you.

Free Internet is available in all hotels in the city, as well as in many cafes and restaurants (Brant, Subway fast food chain, Brasserie Le Michel, The Irish Times pub, etc.).

Safety

Strasbourg is a fairly safe city, but you should always be careful about the safety of your valuables, money and documents. It is not necessary to walk around the industrial districts of the city at night.

Due to the presence of a number of headquarters of international organizations in the city, in some places you may encounter heightened security measures. You should always carry identification documents with you.

Business climate

Strasbourg occupies an advantageous geographical position in the neighborhood with a number of European countries and plays an important political role in the life of modern Europe, so this city is often chosen as a place for business meetings of representatives of many companies. Many business conferences, product exhibitions, etc. are held in Strasbourg every year.

The excellent transport and banking infrastructure of the city attracts huge investments to Strasbourg, directed primarily to the tourism, medical and high-tech sectors. The presence of a wide range of professional business consultants, translators, international lawyers and other specialists greatly facilitates the process of starting a business in Strasbourg.

Real estate

Owning real estate in Strasbourg has its significant pros and cons. The main advantages include the relative proximity of the city to many European countries and the beauty of the nature of Alsace, but there is a significant disadvantage in the form of environmental pollution of Strasbourg.

The price of 1 m2 for apartments ranges from 1,700 to 3,900 €, and the smaller the apartment, the more expensive the cost of 1 m2 is. The cost of houses ranges from 285,000 to 850,000 €, which is about 3,000–4,700 € per 1 m2.

The minimum price for a long-term rental of a one-room apartment in Strasbourg is 400 € for a one-room apartment and 630 € for a two-room apartment.

In the city, you can also easily purchase premises for doing business (trade, services, production). The cost of commercial real estate varies from 1,000 to 2,600 € per 1 m2.

If you are planning to spend several days in Strasbourg, during which you want to learn as much as possible about the past and present of the city, take the opportunity to save on an entrance ticket to any museum in the city, at the entrance to observation deck, on a boat trip on the river, etc., by purchasing a Strasbourg-Pass tourist card (14 € for adults and 7 € for children). Card benefits are provided within three days from the date of activation. The Strasbourg-Pass also entitles you to free use of a Vélhop bike for half an hour every day, a 50% discount on a second museum, a visit to the Vaisseau, a trip on a tourist train, an audio guide in the Old Town.

The cards are sold at the Tourist Office of Strasbourg, located at 17 place de la Cathédrale. There you can also get detailed information about all the privileges that are provided to Strasbourg-Pass holders.

This city was divided between France and Germany for several centuries. Today it has become one of the administrative centers of the European Union, as well as the intellectual center of France, because. here is the University of Strasbourg.

Strasbourg has a very rich history. Here you can see ancient temples of the Early Middle Ages of the XII century, half-timbered houses, many unique museums, beautiful gardens and parks, historical monuments, etc.

We bring to your attention short description sights of Strasbourg with a photo and we wish you to definitely visit this a beautiful city to see its magnificence with your own eyes. What can you see in Strasbourg?

Attractions of Strasbourg on the map

This is the name of the romantic old quarter of Strasbourg, which today is on the famous UNESCO List, as cultural heritage humanity. The first mention of Petite France was recorded in the 16th century.

In those distant times, simple artisans lived here with their families. Many were engaged in leather dressing, so for decades there was a terrible smell in the quarter. Today, Petite France is a beautiful part of Strasbourg, adored by tourists.

This square is located in the historic quarter of the city. It often hosts various events, state and citywide celebrations, ceremonies, national holidays, etc.

The square bears the name of the famous resident of Strasbourg, General Kleber, who participated in the wars on the side of Napoleon. It is his sculpture that stands in the center of the square. And around are administrative mansions and excellent restaurants with good cuisine.

This Catholic cathedral began to be built in the 11th century. In its place there used to be an ancient Roman sanctuary. For hundreds of years, the temple was repeatedly reconstructed and restored: from the Romanesque to the Gothic architectural style.

Most of all, tourists like the astronomical clock installed here in the 14th century. On the watch dial, you can see the orbits of the planets with the same errors that medieval astronomers made in the distant past.

This is the most famous building in Strasbourg and definitely worth seeing. It was built at the beginning of the 15th century using the fachwerk principle. Later, it was rebuilt several times until it received a skillfully carved facade.

The facade of the Kammerzel house has 75 windows and a lot of carved decorations depicting biblical fairy-tale characters, signs of the Zodiac, famous musicians of those distant times, as well as female images of Faith, Hope and Love.

Opposite the cathedral is another attraction of Strasbourg and all of France - Gotenberg Square. This man glorified the city all over the world by inventing typesetting. Since then, the principle of printing has not changed.

It happened in the middle of the 15th century, and the first printed book was the Bible. On the square stands a statue of Gotenberg, who is holding a large sheet of paper in his hands. If you look closely, you can see that this is one of the pages of the Bible.

This is one of the most famous historical sights of Strasbourg, an architectural monument of the Baroque. The palace houses three museums of Strasbourg: archaeological (located in the basement), decorative and fine arts.

The palace was built on the site of the residence of the archbishop in the first half of the 18th century at the direction of the local cardinal Rogan. King Louis XV of France stayed here, Napoleon I was with his wife Josephine and other famous and great people.

This museum is housed in a beautiful 16th-century mansion that was a slaughterhouse for several hundred years. Only at the beginning of the 20th century, at the direction of the city authorities, the building was given for the needs of the museum.

A trip to Strasbourg for those who love architecture, old buildings and the beauty of quiet streets. The mention of it belongs to the first century. The first name had Argentorat, was a border town. In the course of history, due to the constant transitions of the city from Germany to France, the cultures of the two peoples intertwined. This left a peculiar imprint on Strasbourg.

Location

The city is located in the northeast of France. It was located on the river Ile near the banks of the river Rhine. The rivers are connected to each other by canals. The Rhine is the border between France and Germany.

The climate in this region of France is continental. The city is located between mountain ranges that protect it from the wind. In summer it is hot and gassy, ​​and in winter it is cold. At the beginning and end of summer there are heavy rains with thunderstorms.

Traveling by yourself is twice as economically cheaper and much more interesting. You can order a tourist package, where all inclusive.

The French city of Strasbourg is on the border with Germany.

How to get to Strasbourg

I decided to go to Strasbourg on my own. First, to Paris by plane (Charles de Gaulle airport) with Air France, from Paris to Strasbourg from Gare de l'Est by high-speed train, distance 500 km, time 2 hours 20 minutes.

You can fly to Frankfurt or Karlsruhe in Germany and get to Strasbourg by train or bus. You can fly with a transfer by plane to Prague or Amsterdam, then by plane to Strasbourg airport. It is located near the city. Then I go to the city by express bus or taxi.

You can stay in a hotel or a private hotel. Payment from 50 euros and above.

Thousands of tourists come to Strasbourg. Hotels are like palaces and castles of the French nobles. They are built in the style of the whole city.

What is the best way to travel in Strasbourg?

I advise tourists to walk around this magnificent city on foot, and if you decide to stay here longer, I recommend using trams. And so that you do not get confused in the direction of the tram lines and branches, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with the map.

Scheme of tram lines in Strasbourg

The tram in Strasbourg is perhaps the easiest way to get to any point in the city. All trams are equipped with comfort for passengers, and full-wall windows will enable tourists with cameras to take pictures of local sights right on the go and will not let you get bored and you can admire the city!

In total, the city has 5 tram lines and almost 60 stops. Trams start running from 4:30 in the morning until 00:30 at night. Tram lines are named by letters of the Latin alphabet, each line is indicated by its own color:

• Tram A- from Illkirch Lixenbuhl station (Ilkirsh) to Hautepierre Maillon (Otpierre)
• Tram B– from Hoenheim Gare station (Hohenheim) to Lingolsheim Tiergaertel (Lingolsheim)
• Tram C– from the station Neuhof (Neuhof) to Elsau (Elso)
• Tram D- from the station Rotonde (Rotonda) to Aristide Briand (Aristide Briand)
• Tram E– from Robertsau station (Robertso) to Bagersee (Bagersee)

Tariffs (as of 2010):

• One way ticket = 1.3 €
• Round-trip ticket = 2.5 €
• Package of 10 one-way tickets = 11.5 €
• Package 30 one way tickets = 32 €

Subscription:

• For one month – 40 €. Gives access to the tram/bus network for an unlimited number of trips from the first to the last day of the month.
• For one year – 400 €. Gives access to the city transport for an unlimited number of trips for 1 year from the date of purchase of the subscription.

Tickets and season tickets are available at every vending machine at every bus stop in the city.

Old city

First of all, I went to Old city. It occupies several blocks that are located around the Cathedral.

This part has the most architectural monuments. The cathedral is a Catholic church, it is a masterpiece of Gothic art. It was founded on Cathedral Square in 1176 and took almost 300 years to build. Another name for the cathedral is Notre Dame, together with a lace spire (142 meters) was considered the tallest building of the Middle Ages in Europe. The cathedral has an observation deck (332 steps), the cathedral is open and a platform for visiting every day. The entire city is visible from above.

The cathedral admires ancient stained-glass windows, biblical images. There are astronomical clocks with figurines that move. Organ music sounds in the cathedral. Made by Notre Dame from local pink limestone. In the rays of the sun, it shimmers with multi-colored shades. Cathedral Square itself is small, narrow streets diverge from it.

Opposite the Cathedral is the episcopal Rogan Palace(built for the Cardinals Rogans), which houses the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Applied Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts. Napoleon, Louis, Marie Antoinette visited the palace.

House of Kammerzell

House of Kammerzell located on the Cathedral Square, it belongs to half-timbered architecture (special building construction). The house was built in 1427. The lower floor is built of stone, while the upper floors are made of wood and are decorated with carved sculptures. Alsatian artist Leo Schnug designed the house.

The windows of the building are framed in the form of figures depicting musicians, signs of the zodiac, mythical biblical heroes, and a small organist. Three female figures are carved on the corner side, symbolizing virtue.

On the 2nd floor there is a figure of Love with two children and a pelican (an allegory of parental love). On the 3rd floor there is a figure of Hope holding a Phoenix bird (a symbol of immortality and rebirth). On the 4th floor there is an image of Vera with a griffin (a symbol of faith in Christ). The lower floor was built in the Gothic style, the upper ones in the Renaissance, because the house was being rebuilt. It is named after its last owner. On the ground floor there is a restaurant with excellent Alsatian cuisine.

I walk from the cathedral along Haberdashery Street, there are many souvenir shops. You can buy something to remember. On the corner of the street there Deer Pharmacy, the first mention of the building dates back to 1268. The house is decorated with frescoes by Leo Schnug. On the lower floor, decoration on medieval themes, on the second floor, frescoes in grisaille technique. The ceilings are decorated with stucco in the form of allegorical figures.

At the corner of the pharmacy there is a column that extends from the front of the building. She was jokingly called the "tummy meter". Tourists, having fun, check the harmony of their figure, squeezing into the gap.

I turn and get on the street of the Old Fish Market to the Crow Bridge. After crossing the bridge, I get to the Raven Square. The court used to sit on this square and pass sentences on criminals.

To the right is the embankment of St. Nicholas, from which you can see the square of the Old Hospital. The surviving tower and gate is a remnant of an old city fortification and belongs to the 14th-17th centuries. On the territory of the hospital there is a historical wine cellar, where tours and wine tastings are held. I pass by the Alsace Museum (museum of folk culture). The embankment of St. Nicholas passes into the embankment of Charles Frey. The architecture of the houses deserves special attention. Here is the Mill Square and St. Martin's Bridge.

Begins. A picturesque place for walking, along the Ile River you can make a water trip on a water bus. From here you will have a view of the watchtowers and the "Petite France". This is a small area where artisans, fishermen, and tanners used to live. For example, the "tanner's house" was built in 1572.

Further, they were part of the fortifications of the city. Initially, they were covered with a roof made of wood, hence the name covered. They had walls and bars with loopholes. The towers on the bridges were designed to protect the branches of the Ile River. The bridges were rebuilt, as they no longer had the status of defensive ones. Now the Covered Bridges are a cascade of bridges and square towers. The two central towers have bastion fortifications. Each tower had its own function.

Separately standing tower called the Tower of the Executioner, here the sentence was carried out. There were five towers in total, the tower of chains (the women's prison) burned down. The tower of Heinrich carried the function of a civil prison. The towers of Hans von Altheim and the tower of the French were a military prison.

From the panoramic platform called "Vauban's dam" you can see the Covered Bridges, Petite France and the city center behind them. The dam is a structure (fortification) on the Ile River in the form of a system of locks designed to flood the southern lands in the event of an enemy attack.

Museums and other attractions

The city of Strasbourg is small in size. In it you can see Art Museum in the Obette Palace, which has about 850 valuable paintings by masters from the 14th century (Raphael, El Greco, Flemish masters and others). The first art museum was destroyed during the war in 1870. A new museum was created by Wilhelm von Bode, the work was continued by Hans Gogh.

From the cathedral, one of the streets leads to the square with a monument to Gutenberg, who created the first printing press.

Located in the city center, it has a statue in honor of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber. Near Iron Man Square.

Republic Square, a botanical garden with a pond, a park with enclosures for animals.

Strasbourg Historical Museum tells about the history of the city, the building dates back to the 16th century.

In the European Quarter in the north of the city, it is designed in a modern architectural style. It houses the European Parliament and the Council of Europe.

You can talk about Strasbourg for a long time, but it's better to see it for yourself.

Sights of Strasbourg – VIDEO

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Address: 2, rue du VieuxMarché-auxPoissons

Hospital civil

Located south of the historic center, this civilian hospital was built at the end of the 16th century. In 1716 it was partially destroyed by fire. The construction of the new hospital (still prominent to this day) began in 1717 under the direction of the architect Rudolf Mollinger. Under the huge roof of the hospital is a three-story granary. The building was enlarged in 1741. Among what has been preserved after the fire of the 18th century, the historic winery is especially worth mentioning. It was built in 1393-95 and was used to produce wine to drink to patients. In the basement of the hospital is stored white wine dating back to 1472. This wonderful nectar with more than 500 years of aging was used only 3 times: in 1576, in 1716 and in 1944 in honor of the liberation of the city.

Chambre de commerce et d'industrie

The oldest Hall of Commerce and Industry is located on Gutenberg Square. The building was built in 1582 under the direction of a Swiss entrepreneur in the Renaissance style. In 1867 the building was expanded according to the original plan.

Strasbourg is considered one of the most fascinating cities in France. Although it is difficult to consider it 100% French: located in the northeast of the country, it is in close proximity to the German border. Such a good location allows tourists not only to consider Strasbourg as the final destination of their trip, but also as a city that can be dropped in passing for a day or two.

What attracts tourists to this European city? What can you see here in one day?

Notre Dame Cathedral

One of the main attractions of Strasbourg is Notre Dame Cathedral - a Gothic church made of pink sandstone. The facade of the cathedral is decorated with numerous ornaments and sculptures.

Externally, Notre Dame in Strasbourg can evoke associations with the cathedrals of Cologne and Ulm. This is not surprising. Like many things in this city, the cathedral was influenced by German and French architectural trends of the 13th-14th centuries. The cathedral has only one, northern, tower, which makes it asymmetric and unique.

Anyone can climb the tower, but keep in mind that you have to climb on foot. The tower is 142 meters high and offers stunning views of the city from its top.

Many historical figures climbed the tower, for example, Goethe climbed the stairs to the bell tower daily, overcoming his fears and calling the cathedral "the lofty tree of God" and "a gigantic delicate miracle."

• Address: Place de la Cathedrale
• Opening hours: Cathedral - Mon-Sat 09:30 - 11:15, 14:00 - 17:45; Sun 13:00 - 17:30, observation deck - 09:30 - 20:00 (from April to September); 10:00 – 18:00 (October to March)
• Cost: entrance to the cathedral - 3 Euro, for students and children - 2 Euro.
• Ascent to the observation deck - 5 Euro, for students and children - 3.5 Euro.

The clock is located in the south wing of Notre Dame Cathedral. The first clock was installed in 1353. Later, in 1842, other, more modern ones were installed in their place.

According to legend, the inventor and creator of the clock was blinded after the completion of the work, so that the secret of their complex mechanism would be hidden forever.

The clock is unique in that it shows not only the time, but also the year, month, zodiac sign, and the position of the planets.

Kammerzell House (Maison Kammerzell)

The Kammerzell House is a favorite place among tourists. The house is located in the heart of Strasbourg and is one of the best examples of half-timbered architecture. The building was built as early as 1427 with intricately carved walls of characteristic style that appeared in 1589.

Now the basement is reserved for a cozy restaurant with wall paintings by Leo Schnug, made in the 19th century, and traditional dishes of Alsatian cuisine. There is a small hotel on the upper floors.

Address: Place de la Cathedrale

District "Little France» (La Petite France)

Initially, the area was founded in the 16th-17th centuries as a place of residence for fishermen, tanners and millers. That is why the houses here were not built of stone, as in more prosperous areas, but with wooden (half-timbered) frames.

Previously, Petite France was an unpopular and gloomy area of ​​the city, scammers turned their deals here and robbers were operating with might and main.

Now there is no trace of the past relationship - Petite France has become the most beloved and touching corner of Strasbourg. It is practically a whole pedestrian zone with colorful places for photos.

The Tanners' House (Maison des Tanneurs)

One of the places in the Petite France area where it is recommended to linger and take a photo is the tanners' house. Typical of Strasbourg, the half-timbered style of the house, decorated with colorful flower pots, creates the right atmosphere to enjoy traditional Alsace cuisine in the restaurant on the ground floor.

Address: 42, rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, La Petite France

Strasbourg is the seat of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament and the European Court of Human Rights. The buildings of all three political institutions of Europe, located within walking distance from each other, have practically become symbols of the city.

Against the backdrop of the old part of the city, they stand out with their modern architecture. The high-tech style perfectly emphasizes the lightness and openness of the building of the European Court of Justice. In the building of the European Parliament, which has the shape of a wing, you can learn more about the functions and tasks of this organization.

The European Palace offers visitors two types of excursions: an introductory tour (lasting 1 hour) and a training program (lasting 2 hours). Guided tours are available for groups of more than 15 people by appointment. If there are free places, anyone can join an already formed group.

• Address: 1 Avenue du Président Robert Schuman (European Parliament), 528 Avenue de l’Europe (Council of Europe), Allée des Droits de l’Homme (European Court of Justice)
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri 09:00 – 18:00
• Cost: free

Bridge of Europe and Bridge of the Two Shores (Pont de l'Europe et Passerelle des Deux Rives)

Right on the German border, the Rhine can be crossed over two bridges. The first, the bridge of Europe, was built back in 1388 to connect Strasbourg with the neighboring city of Kehl. But by the middle of the 19th century, it was in a terrible state.

At the beginning of the third millennium, it was decided to repair the bridge, and down the river to build a pedestrian bridge, called the Bridge of Two Banks. The bridges symbolize the unity and freedom of Europe.

Now residents of the city and tourists can walk along footbridge, quite legally and freely crossing the border of two states. Quiet picturesque parks are located on both sides.

You can get to the Europe Bridge by bus number 21 or by bike, which can be rented in the city.

Address: Avenue Rhin et Danube, Vence

Rhine Imperial Palace (Palais du Rhin)

The former Imperial Residence is certainly one of the most colorful buildings in Strasbourg. The palace was built at the end of the 19th century for Kaiser Wilhelm I. Today, the palace serves as a perfectly preserved reminder of the Kaiser times, not only outside, but also inside.

A no less magnificent garden adjoins the palace, and in front of the palace itself, on Republic Square, there is a park of the same name, where you can have a picnic on a hot afternoon in an atmosphere of complete peace.

• Address: 1, Place de la Republique
• Opening hours: Mon-Thu 9:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 17:00, Fri 9:00 - 12:00, 14:00 - 16:00, Sat-Sun - day off

Rogan Palace (Palais Rohan)

In 1731-1742, according to the design of Roberto de Cotte, the palace-residence of Cardinal de Rogan-Soubise was built. The bishop was not only the head of the clergy, but also the overlord of the crown prince, so he ordered his palace to be built in the manner of the Parisian royal palaces.

In different eras, the luxurious palace hosted King Louis XV and Queen Marie Antoinette, Emperor Napoleon I and his wife Josephine, French King Charles X. In 2009, Angela Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy met here.

Thanks to the whims of Napoleon, the interior of the palace was redone at the beginning of the 19th century, and now the main halls of the palace are among the most beautiful places in France.

• Address: Place du Chateau, 2
• Cost: one-day ticket to all museums of the city - 12 Euro (adult), 6 Euro (children)

One of the most interesting museums in Strasbourg is located under the roof of the Rohan Palace.

It is divided into 2 parts. The first is a restored royal and cardinal chambers with a detailed interior and decoration. The second consists of collections of exhibits of decorative arts and crafts of local masters of the second half of the 17th - mid-19th centuries. A special place is occupied by a collection of ancient clockwork dolls and mechanisms.

• Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 – 18:00

The Museum of Fine Arts is located on the second floor of the Rogan Palace. Here is a collection of art paintings written in the period from the Middle Ages until the second half of the 19th century.

• Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 – 18:00
• Cost: 6.5 Euro (adult), 3.5 Euro (child)

The basement and cellars of the Rogan Palace are occupied by an archaeological museum, one of the largest of its kind in France.

The finds presented in the museum were discovered in Alsace and date back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages, immersing visitors in the prehistoric period of the region. There are also exhibits from later periods, up to the 10th century AD.

• Opening hours: daily (except Tue) 10:00 – 18:00
• Cost: 6.5 Euro (adult), 3.5 Euro (child)

Strasbourg with its rivers, canals, dams, locks invites travelers to explore the city landscapes on the river buses plying along the canals of Strasbourg. Currently, guests of the city are offered 6 interesting and informative routes along the Ile River. There are audio guides (with headphones) in 12 languages, incl. and in Russian.

The duration of the tour, depending on the chosen route, will be from 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes.

• The ticket office and berths are located on the cathedral square, about 60 m from the cathedral.
• Cost: 9.9 - 15.6 Euro (adult), 6 - 9.05 Euro (children from 4 to 12 years old), free of charge (children under 4 years old).

Alsace wine road (Route des Vins d'Alsac)

You can enjoy Alsatian white wines, recognized as the best in all of France, in the vicinity of Strasbourg. The wine road of Alsace passes here, stretching from north to south of the country for 170 km. The climatic conditions of the region with its dry and warm air are ideal for vineyards that grow 7 different grape varieties.

Brewery Kronenburg (Brasserie Kronenbourg)

The Kronenburg brewery is one of the largest in Europe and is the leading brand of beer in France. It produces almost 10 million hectoliters of beer per year. Visitors to the brewery will be guided through the historic cellars with old wooden barrels, where the history of the brewery began in 1664.

• Address: Boulevard de l'Europe, Obernai Cedex
• Opening hours: Mon-Fri 09:00 – 17:00
• Cost: free

Vacation with children

Tourists with children can easily find something to their liking. Strasbourg offers such a variety of entertainment that your head will spin.

In addition to numerous play centers, playgrounds and parks, young travelers can visit the local planetarium. In the L'Orangerie park, children can watch storks and flamingos.

It is worth stopping by the Zoological Museum of Strasbourg, where they will be told about modern flora and fauna, and will be shown a collection of insects. The small size of the museum will not tire the children with a long excursion.