Strasbourg

With its 142-meter-high tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral presides over the city of Strasbourg and the entire Alsatian plain. The façade of this masterpiece of Gothic art is decorated with a multitude of figures and is made of pink sandstone. Inside, the astronomical clock comes to life every day at 12:30. And the view from the platform at the top makes up for the 330 steps!

The historic center around the cathedral earned Strasbourg its first inclusion on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1988. In 2017, the Neustadt district was added to the list. This part of the city, built during the German era (1871-1918), is well worth a visit.

Our tip: cycle along the banks of the Ill River to the nearby European Quarter.

Strasbourg is considered the capital of Europe, as various European institutions are based in Strasbourg. The European Parliament, the European Court of Human Rights, the European Ombudsman, Eurocorps and, since 1949, the Council of Europe.

With its timber-framed houses, flower-lined bridges, small squares and alleyways, the Petite France district has a real charm all of its own. In the Middle Ages, fishermen, millers and tanners plied their trade here on the banks of the Ill. Today, it's the tourist and romance district without question. In the evening, it's the ideal place for a drink and a meal in one of the typical restaurants.

As France's third greenest city, Strasbourg leads the country in bicycle lanes: nearly 600 km of them. Cycling is king here, and there are plenty of opportunities for safe, enjoyable rides. So don't hesitate, rent a bike and venture beyond the historic center, for example along the charming, tree-lined Bruche Canal.     

trasbourg has not one, but dozens of Christmas markets. The largest, the Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest in Europe (1570). Around the cathedral and Place de Broglie, its pretty chalets offer a multitude of items for your Christmas gifts or decorations. Mulled wine and traditional cookies spread delicious scents of spices and cinnamon. In the evening, the magic takes hold as garlands, lanterns and lights twinkle in the night. There's no doubt about it, Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas!

For your city break in Strasbourg, opt for the train! From Basel, the journey takes less than 1.5 hours. Not only will you reduce your carbon footprint, but you'll arrive in the heart of the city and save yourself the hassle of parking. The entire historic center of Strasbourg is easily explored on foot, by bus or by bike.