Perfect Weekend in Strasbourg by Train: Canals, Cathedral Views and Alsatian Flavours

Strasbourg is one of France’s most atmospheric small cities: half-timbered houses, canals that glow at sunset, warm taverns serving regional comfort food, and a historic centre that is easily explored on foot. Best of all, Strasbourg is extremely well connected by rail, making it the ideal destination for a relaxed 48-hour trip with no car needed.

This guide covers what to see, where to eat, what Alsatian dishes actually are, where to stay, how to explore beyond the city, and how to arrive smoothly by train.

Why Go?

Strasbourg feels like stepping into a fairytale: winding medieval lanes, pastel-coloured buildings, working canals and flower-lined bridges. Yet it also has a cosmopolitan side as the home of the European Parliament. It is compact, safe and full of character, with excellent food, great wine and some of France’s most charming day trips available by train.

A Bit of History

Strasbourg sits at the meeting point of France and Germany, which explains its dual identity. Over centuries, control shifted between the two countries, leaving a rich blend of architectural styles, food traditions and cultural influences. Its cathedral was once the tallest building in the world, and its UNESCO-listed Grande Île remains one of Europe’s best-preserved historic centres.

What to Expect

Strasbourg is a walking city with an efficient tram network. The main station is only a short stroll from the historic centre, and many of the highlights sit conveniently close together around the Grande Île and Petite France. Expect waterways, timbered façades, bakeries, markets and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Five Things to See and Do

Strasbourg Cathedral:

A Gothic masterpiece with a detailed pink-sandstone façade and an intricate astronomical clock. Climb the tower for one of the best city panoramas in France.

Petite France:

A preserved medieval quarter of timber-framed houses, canals and narrow lanes. It is the most photographed area of Strasbourg and perfect for wandering.

Boat Tour on the River Ill:

A gentle, scenic way to see the city’s layout, from Petite France to the modern European Quarter. Especially lovely at sunset.

Palais Rohan:

An elegant eighteenth-century palace housing three museums. Even viewed from outside, it’s an impressive landmark.

European Parliament:

Strasbourg is one of the EU’s political capitals. Guided visits provide insight into how European decisions are made.

House tanners, Petite France district

Food Culture

Alsace has one of the most recognisable regional cuisines in France, shaped by centuries of Franco-German influence. Expect generous dishes, rustic flavours, slow-cooked meats, wood-fired breads and an emphasis on comfort. Wines are equally important here, especially Riesling, Pinot Gris and the sparkling Crémant d’Alsace. Eating in a winstub – the region’s traditional tavern – is one of the most memorable parts of a visit.

Alsatian Food Explained

Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche): A thin, crisp flatbread baked in a wood-fired oven and topped with cream, onions and bacon.

Choucroute Garnie: Sauerkraut cooked with spices and white wine, served with sausages and smoked meats.

Spaetzle: Soft egg noodles similar to small dumplings, often served with cheese or gravy.

Baeckeoffe: A slow-cooked casserole of marinated beef, pork and lamb with potatoes and vegetables.

Kugelhopf: A tall, light bundt cake flavoured with almonds and sometimes raisins.

Crémant d’Alsace: A fresh, elegant sparkling wine typical of the region.

Where to Eat

Winstub S’Kaechele: A tiny, traditional tavern with warm service and excellent tarte flambée, ideal for a first experience of regional cooking.

Le Tire-Bouchon: A friendly, popular restaurant serving generous plates of choucroute, spaetzle and Alsatian classics.

Les Haras: A contemporary brasserie set in a restored eighteenth-century stud farm, offering refined dishes and a memorable setting.

Au Pain de Mon Grand-Père: A highly regarded organic bakery perfect for breakfast pastries, sourdough and kougelhopf.

Where to Stay

Hotel Arok: A stylish, modern boutique hotel directly opposite the station, perfect for travellers arriving by rail.

Maison Rouge Strasbourg: A historic, central hotel near the cathedral, appreciated for its elegant rooms and excellent service.

Régent Petite France: A charming, canal-side hotel in the heart of Petite France, ideal for a scenic and atmospheric stay.

Off the Beaten Track

Neustadt: A grand district built during German rule with wide boulevards and impressive civic buildings.

Parc de l’Orangerie: A peaceful park with lakes, lawns and nesting storks, ideal for a morning walk.

Obernai and Marlenheim: Two charming wine-route towns easily reached by train for vineyard walks and tastings.

How to Get There by Train

From Paris: TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg in around 1 hour 46 minutes.

From Germany: Direct trains from Stuttgart, Karlsruhe and Frankfurt Airport.

From Switzerland: Connections from Basel via Mulhouse, taking roughly 1 hour 20 minutes.

Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Day 1

Explore Petite France. Boat tour on the River Ill. Lunch in a winstub. Visit the cathedral and climb the tower. Dinner in the historic centre.

Day 2

Day trip by train to Colmar, Obernai or Mulhouse. Return to Strasbourg for dinner and an evening stroll.

Real Travel Guides – Real Travel. By Rail.