Day 1 – In the heart of historic Strasbourg
Morning: the Grande Île and the cathedral
Start your stay with the Grande Île, the beating heart of Strasbourg and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, everything is done on foot. The cobbled streets invite you to stroll among craft shops, colourful facades and lively little squares. It's impossible to miss Notre-Dame Cathedral. Its slender silhouette has dominated the city for centuries. As you approach, take the time to observe the details of its sculpted façade, then step inside to admire its stained-glass windows and astronomical clock. For the more motivated, the climb to the platform offers a panoramic view over the rooftops of Strasbourg and, on a clear day, as far as the Vosges mountains.
Around the cathedral, the atmosphere is lively: cafés, occasional markets and street musicians set the pace for the morning.
Afternoon: the charm of Petite France
As you reach the quays, the scenery gradually changes. Half-timbered houses are reflected in the canals, bridges follow one after another and the atmosphere becomes more peaceful: you are in the Petite France district. Formerly a tanners' quarter, it is now one of the most photogenic areas of the city. You can stroll quietly along the water, stop on a bridge to admire the reflections, or climb up to the Vauban dam to enjoy a beautiful view of the rooftops and the Covered Bridges.
A cruise on the River Ill also allows you to discover the city from a different angle, alternating between the historic centre and the European quarter.
Day 2 – Nature and an Alsatian getaway
Morning: Strasbourg in the countryside
Strasbourg is also one of the most pleasant cities to explore by bicycle. In the morning, hire bicycles and follow the cycle paths along the Ill.
The Parc de l'Orangerie is an ideal place to stop: vast lawns, a lake, storks and shaded paths offer a nature break just a few minutes from the centre. The atmosphere is peaceful, especially at the start of the day.
As you continue your ride, you will discover the European quarter, where the contemporary buildings of the Parliament contrast with the traditional architecture of the historic centre.
Afternoon: the Alsace Wine Route
Less than thirty minutes from Strasbourg, the landscape changes rapidly. The hills are covered with vineyards and the Alsatian villages reveal their colourful houses and flower-filled streets. Obernai, Barr and Rosheim are ideal stops for a few hours' break. Visit a wine cellar, taste a Riesling or Pinot Gris, then enjoy the panoramic views of the Vosges mountains. This proximity between city and countryside is one of Strasbourg's great assets: in a single weekend, you can combine urban heritage with an immersion in wine culture.
Where to dine and have a drink?
After a day of sightseeing, Strasbourg naturally invites you to prolong the experience around a table. In a traditional winstub, share a crispy tarte flambée, a generous choucroute or a simmered baeckeoffe, accompanied by a glass of Riesling or Pinot Gris. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with old wood panelling and checked tablecloths. For a more contemporary atmosphere, the city centre and the quays of Petite France are home to modern wine bars and bistros, perfect for sampling local specialities or enjoying a drink on the terrace.
In the evening, the lights reflect on the canals and you can enjoy a last drink in a lively but friendly atmosphere, true to the Alsatian way of life.
Strasbourg in winter: the magic of Christmas
If you choose to visit in December, the atmosphere changes completely. Strasbourg becomes the Christmas capital. Wooden chalets fill the squares, the facades are adorned with lights and the smell of mulled wine wafts through the air.
The large Christmas tree on Place Kléber, the traditional markets and the craft activities attract visitors from all over Europe. The experience is unique and makes Strasbourg one of the most sought-after destinations in winter.
Why choose Strasbourg for a weekend break?
In just a few days, Strasbourg reveals all the charm and richness of Alsace. Its remarkable heritage can be explored through its cobbled streets, between the majestic cathedral, half-timbered houses and lively squares where life is in full swing. The atmosphere is both warm and European, reflecting its history and its role as the capital of the continent. Alsatian cuisine can be savoured to the full, with traditional recipes and local wines, while the neighbouring vineyards extend the getaway beyond the city. On foot or by bike, the city is easy to explore, along the quays and canals, offering a gentle and pleasant pace.
In just one weekend, Strasbourg combines culture, nature and gourmet pleasures in a unique setting. An exceptional destination that can be explored and enjoyed all year round.
Where to stay when camping?
To enjoy a stay close to nature, the Strasbourg Campsite, located a few kilometres from the centre, allows you to reach the city easily by bike or public transport. Shaded pitches, rental accommodation and green surroundings offer an ideal alternative for discovering Strasbourg while enjoying the peace and quiet of a natural environment.