paris day trip to strasbourg

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The Perfect Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris (by a Local)

By Jen Ciesielski
Updated: 16 March 2024
13 March 2024

I’ve been living in France for over six years and spent three of those years in Paris.

I did hundreds of day trips during that time and visited beautiful cities like Lille and Lyon.

But the place that captured my heart was Strasbourg.

In fact, I loved my visit so much that I moved to Strasbourg in 2019.

This picturesque city is the capital of the Alsace region and is known for its half-timbered houses, savory cuisine, and charming canals.

In this post, I’ll share with you the perfect itinerary for a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris. It has everything you need to plan an amazing trip.

Here is the perfect day trip to Strasbourg from Paris. It has everything you need to plan an amazing trip.

Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris Overview

If you’re short on time, here is an overview of my helpful guide.

Morning: Strasbourg Cathedral, Kammerzell House, Batorama Boat Tour, Palais Rohan, Alsatian Museum
Afternoon: Le Gurtlerhoft, Au Fond du Jardin, Place Kléber, La Petite France, Ponts Couverts, Barrage Vauban
Evening: Neustadt, Return to Paris

Getting to Strasbourg from Paris

While there are many ways to travel between these two cities , I recommend taking a high-speed TGV train for this day trip.

These trains leave from Gare de l’Est (Paris Est) in Paris and take about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

You’ll find tons of departure times throughout the day, but I recommend leaving early in the morning so you can make the most of your trip.

Helpful Tip : If you arrive by 9:00 am, you’ll be able to complete the activities listed in this guide.

You’ll arrive at Gare de Strasbourg. From there, you can walk to the first attraction on this itinerary or take the tram .

You can buy your train tickets online or at the train station in Paris.

I always buy my tickets online and as early as possible, especially for this route. I’ve paid as low as €30 for a one-way ticket and as high as €110.

There are cheaper trains called OUIGO trains, but they can take up to four hours. They are also prone to strikes, delays, and cancellations.

Helpful Tip : I’ve driven from Paris to Strasbourg, and it takes about five hours, so I don’t recommend renting a car.

One Day in Strasbourg – 12 Things to Do

Now that you know how to travel to Strasbourg from Paris, let’s look at 12 amazing things you can do in one day.

1. Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral

This is the view from the highest platform of the Strasbourg Cathedral. From here you can see the rooftops of Grand Île and the half-timbered houses. Then, in the distance on the left side of the photo there are lush leafy trees.

The Strasbourg Cathedral is my favorite landmark in town and there’s no better place to start your visit.

Construction began in the 12th century and spanned a whopping 300 years. Its iconic spire is 142 meters (465 feet) high and can be seen anywhere in the city.

Helpful Tip : For the best view of the cathedral head to Rue Mercière.

Inside, you’ll find vaulted ceilings, stunning stained-glass windows, and an astronomical clock that dates to 1842.

You can also climb to the highest platform where you’ll have the most incredible panorama of Strasbourg (photo above).

It’s 330 steps and you’ll have to walk every one because there is no elevator.

I have vertigo and my legs were trembling most of the way, but once I saw the view, I forgot all about it.

Address : Place de la Cathédrale

Tram Stop : Langstross Grand Rue (Lines A and D)

2. Admire the Kammerzell House

This is the Kammerzell House. It's the top half of the building. It's a half-timbered house with intricately carved wooden panels.

Next to the Strasbourg Cathedral is the Kammerzell House or Maison Kammerzell. This is the oldest half-timbered building in town.

It dates to 1427 and was used for administrative purposes. Today, it’s a restaurant and a hotel.

Over the years, I must have visited the Kammerzell House a hundred times. I love the wooden panels on its exterior. Each is intricately carved and the fine details are beyond impressive.

If you look closely you’ll see different religious figures and mythical creatures.

Helpful Tip : If you climb the Strasbourg Cathedral, on the way down you’ll have a stunning bird’s eye view of the Kammerzell House.

Address : 16 Place de la Cathédrale

3. Take a Batorama Boat Tour

This is a Batorama Boat passing by Pont Saint Martin in La Petite France. It's one of the best activities to do on a day trip.

One of the most unique ways to visit Strasbourg is by boat. And, of the tours that I’ve done, Batorama offers the best value .

They have several routes, but my favorite was the Strasbourg: 20 Centuries of History tour.

It’s 70 minutes and passes by sites like La Petite France, the Barrage Vauban, and the European Parliament.

Not only that but you’ll learn all about the history and culture of Strasbourg.

Helpful Tip : If you’re short on time, they also have a 45-minute tour called Strasbourg, Grand Île.

Address (Ticket Office) : 18 Place de la Cathédrale

4. Experience the Palais Rohan

This is an exhibit inside the Museum of Decorative Arts. There are three painting on the walls. Then, there are two tables each surrounded by three chairs. There a three stone statues in the back of the tables.

The Palais Rohan was built in the early 18th century and was the residence of the prince-bishops of Strasbourg.

Today, it houses three incredible museums: the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Archaeological Museum.

The Museum of Fine Arts has an impressive collection of paintings, including works by Raphael and Gustave Courbet.

The Museum of Decorative Arts showcases furniture, tapestries, and other earthenware objects.

Then, the Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from civilizations that once inhabited the region.

I’ve been to all three and appreciated the exhibits at each . But, for this day trip, I recommend picking only one.

My favorite was the Museum of Decorative Arts because it showed what the interior would have looked like in the 18th century.

Helpful Tip : Most museums in Strasbourg, including the Palais Rohan, are closed on Tuesdays.

Address : 2 Place du Château

5. Tour the Alsatian Museum

This is an example of a bedroom in an Alsatian house at the Alsatian museum. There is a rocking horse, a wooden chair, and a bed. The walls are made of wooden and there are pictures on the walls.

The Alsatian Museum was established in 1902 to help preserve the culture of Strasbourg and the region.

It’s housed in three half-timbered houses and boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries.

I loved wandering through the exhibits of clothing and household objects. They even had rooms set up to look like traditional Alsatian homes .

As you can see in the photo I took above, that’s how bedrooms were decorated back then.

Helpful Tip : If you’re short on time, you can visit the Alsatian Museum after lunch.

Address : 23-25 Quai Saint-Nicolas

Tram Stop : Porte de l’Hôpital (Lines A and D)

6. Lunch at Le Gurtlerhoft

This is a photo of the Choucroute Garnie I ordered at Le Gurtlerhoft. There are three different types of pork, two round potatoes, and sauerkraut. There is also a leaf of parsley on top.

No trip to Strasbourg is complete without trying traditional Alsatian cuisine. And Le Gurtlerhoft is my all-time favorite restaurant.

It’s housed in a 14th-century wine cellar under the Strasbourg Cathedral. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is hearty.

They have a wide selection, but I ordered the Le Menu De L’Alsacien. It included a salad (salade Strasbourgeoise), choucroute garnie, and a tart for dessert.

As you can see in the photo I took above, the portions are generous so make sure to come with an empty stomach.

And don’t forget to pair your meal with an Alsatian wine.

They have an excellent wine list, but I prefer a glass of Riesling with choucroute garnie.

Helpful Tip : If you want to guarantee a table, I recommend making a reservation .

Address : 13 Place du Château

7. Stop by Au Fond du Jardin

This is the selection of Madeleines du Voyage at Au Fond du Jardin. It's a serving platter that has three levels and the little cakes are placed on each level.

After you’ve had your fill of hearty Alsatian food, your next stop is Au Fond du Jardin.

This charming tearoom is tucked away in a small alley near the Strasbourg Cathedral and serves the most delicious treats in town.

They are most known for their Madeleines du Voyage.

These small, buttery cakes come in a variety of flavors to satisfy any sweet tooth.

I tried the citrus and rose petal Madeleines, and both were heavenly.

You can sit and enjoy your treats in their cozy tearoom or take them to go and continue exploring the city.

Helpful Tip : Au Fond du Jardin has both a tearoom and a boutique where they sell their Madeleines du Voyage. You don’t need a reservation to visit the boutique.

Address : 6 Rue de la Râpe

8. Discover Place Kléber

This is a photo of the market in Place Kléber. There are people walking around and in the back there are vendors selling goods. Then, in the distance, there are buildings surrounded the square.

After indulging in some delicious treats, head to Place Kléber, Strasbourg’s largest square.

It’s named after Jean-Baptiste Kléber, a general who served during the French Revolution.

Here you’ll find a statue of Kléber surrounded by historic buildings like the Aubette .

Then, if you’re visiting Strasbourg’s Christmas market, it’s home to a gorgeous Christmas tree .

Over the years I’ve spent hours people-watching and taking in the beauty of this square. I love the atmosphere and the energy.

Plus, the afternoon flea market on Wednesdays is my favorite in town.

Address : Place Kléber

Tram Stop : Homme de Fer (Lines A, B, C, D, and F)

9. Explore La Petite France

This is a photo of me, Jen Ciesielski, standing along Quai des Moulins. I'm wearing shorts, a jacket, and gym shoes. I have my hand in my pockets. In back of me is La Maison des Tanneurs, a white half-timbered house with baskets of flowers on the windowsills.

La Petite France is easily the most picturesque neighborhood in Strasbourg.

It was once home to the city’s tanners, millers, and fishermen.

Today, you’ll find charming cafés, well-preserved half-timbered buildings, and tranquil waterways.

My favorite building is La Maison des Tanneurs. It was built in the late 16th century and was used by local tanners to clean and dry their hides.

Then, in the mid-1900s, it was turned into a cozy restaurant.

It sits at the end of Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, one of the most famous streets in town.

For the best view of La Maison des Tanneurs and Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, head to Quai des Moulins. That’s where I’m standing in the photo above.

Helpful Tip : Other spots worth checking out are Pont Saint Martin and Pont du Faisan.

10. Admire Ponts Couverts

This is the view of Quai de la Petite France from Ponts Couverts. There are several colorful half-timbered houses lined along the River Ill. Then they are framed by leafy green trees.

Ponts Couverts, or Covered Bridges, is a series of three bridges and four towers that once formed an integral part of the city’s defensive system.

They were built in the 13th century, and, today, stand as one of the most iconic landmarks in town .

You can walk across the bridge and take in the views of the River Ill.

One of my favorite spots is at the corner of Ponts Couverts and Quai de la Petite France. That’s where I took the photo above.

This is Maison Ponts Couverts in Spring. It's a half-timbered house that is completely in lilacs. Then, on either side of the house, there is the River Ill. In the distance on the right side of the photo you can see the tower of the Strasbourg Cathedral.

Then, if you’re visiting in spring, stop by Maison Pont Couverts. The walkway that leads to it overflows with lilacs, making for an Instagram-worthy photo .

Address : 3 Ponts Couverts

11. Visit the Barrage Vauban

This is the view from the the Vauban Dam. In the foreground there is the River Ill then you can see Ponts Couverts and two of the four towers. Between the towers is Maison Ponts Couverts and in the distance you can see the tower of the Strasbourg Cathedral.

The Barrage Vauban, or Vauban Dam, was built in the 17th century to supplement the existing fortifications (Pont Couverts).

It was designed by the famous military engineer, Vauban , and was listed as a historical monument in 1971.

Today, it serves not only as a bridge but also as a viewing terrace. In fact, it’s one of my favorite places to admire the city.

From the middle of the terrace, you’ll see La Petite France, the River Ill, and even the Strasbourg Cathedral.

Plus, it’s free to enter , so what more could you ask for?

Address : Place du Qur Blanc

12. Meander around Neustadt

This is Église réformée Saint-Paul at Sunset from Pont Royal. It's a stone church with two towers. In front of the church there is a bridge with water passing underneath it. Then, on either side, there are leafy green trees.

The Neustadt district was built by Germany after Strasbourg and Alsace-Lorraine were annexed in 1871 .

It was designed to showcase German imperial architecture and urban planning.

And, in 2017, it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a stroll through the wide avenues and admire the grand buildings. You’ll find the architecture here is drastically different from that of La Petite France.

Some of the most impressive buildings include the Palais du Rhin and the Bibliothèque Nationale et Universitaire de Strasbourg.

But my favorite is Église réformée Saint-Paul, especially at sunset. If you head to Pont Royal, you’ll have a perfect view of the church. That’s where I took the photo above.

Helpful Tip : There’s a small walkway and grassed area under Pont Royal. It’s a quiet place to sit and relax.

Tram Stop : Gallia (Lines C, E, and F)

Conclusion: Day Trip from Paris to Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a charming and culturally rich city that makes for the perfect day trip from Paris.

From wandering through La Petite France to climbing the Strasbourg Cathedral, this itinerary is packed with things to do. It offers an experience unlike any other.

And, if you want to make the most of your visit, I recommend getting the Strasbourg City Pass and pre-booking your boat tour.

When I visited Strasbourg as a day trip (before I moved here), that’s what I did, and it made for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Now that you have your day trip itinerary, you might be wondering what time of year you should visit .

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

Taking a Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris: A Local’s Guide

Last updated on January 12th, 2024 at 07:52 am

Table of Contents

Wondering if it’s possible to do a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris?

You’ve landed on the right blog – because I live in France! In this article, I’ll highlight the best way to get to Strasbourg from Paris quickly and easily, and what to do when you’re there so you don’t waste the short amount of time you have.

Paris might be the ‘ city of lights ’, but Strasbourg is the ‘ capital of Christmas’ , and being so close to the German border is a wonderful mix of French charm and German history .

Soak up the history, the half-timbered houses, colourful buildings and cobbled streets in this picturesque city.

Keep reading to discover the best way to spend your time on a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris .

Your day trip to Strasbourg from Paris

Some medieval timbered buildings with a cathedral behind in the city of Strasbourg

‼️ SPOILER ALERT

You can actually get to Strasbourg from Paris in less than two hours . But to make the most of your time, I suggest you set off early so you can be there by mid-morning.

How to get to Strasbourg from Paris in one day

There are three ways to get to Strasbourg directly from Paris, and they are car, train and bus, but for this article I’m only looking at going by train, which might include a quick trip on the Paris Metro as well.

Why? Because it is by far the quickest way of getting you there. And as this is a day trip, we want the fastest route possible.

If you go by car it will take you a minimum of five hours and by bus a minimum of seven.

Old timbered colourful buildings by the water in Strasbourg in France

And as there are no direct flights from Paris to Strasbourg, so that leaves the train.

And the good news is a train can take less than two hours to get you into the historic city of Strasbourg.

The best station to use in Paris for this trip is Paris’ Gare de l’Est train station.

There are two types of trains which run this route and they are TGV and OUIGO.

Taking a TGV Train from Paris to Strasbourg

Beautiful coloured buildings next to the water with some green trees in front of them in Strasbourg in France

If you want the quickest journey, then the high-speed TGV train is the best option . It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the fastest. Plus, it will get you there in under two hours.

So if you leave Paris by 7.30 am you’ll be in Strasbourg at 9.30 am with the whole day ahead of you to explore the city.

However, if you don’t want to pay more than you have to for your ticket, I suggest you book ahead to get the best possible price.

▶︎ Get Your Train Tickets at the BEST Price here >>>

Taking a OUIGO Train from Paris to Strasbourg

OUIGO is the slower but cheaper option. It’s run by SNCF, the same company that offers the high-speed TGV. However, they may be cheaper, but they aren’t as comfy and take almost twice the amount of time.

If you’re short on time this would not be my recommended option as they are often delayed and not as regular.

However, if the price of the TGV is way too much, then this might be the best way to go.

5 Things to do in one day in Strasbourg

As time is tight, the best way to see Strasbourg in one day is to do a tour. That way you won’t miss a thing, and you’ll make the most of the time you have.

I’ve handpicked five tours for you that are perfect for a whistlestop tour of this fabulous city.

No 1 – Strasbourg City Centre Bike Tou r

A bridge going over a river in Strasbourg with a bike leant against the railings and a girl in a winter coat walking past

Taking this Strasbourg City Centre Bike Tour is a fantastic way to see this historic city.

Hear fascinating stories about the UNESCO-listed Old Town as you cycle your way through Strasbourg.

Pedal your way along the 17th-century Vauban Dam , wave as you go past the Notre Dame de Strasbourg , and take in the imperial German district of Neustadt during this 2 ½ hour bike tour.

Bike hire is included
Choose a morning or afternoon tour
Visit the districts of La Petite France and Neustadt

▶︎ BOOK NOW: The Strasbourg City Centre Bike Tour

N o 2 – The Traditional Strasbourg Food Tour

Two women, one in red and one in black, eating a pizza in front of an old building in Strasbourg

If you’re not sure where to go for lunch, then the Traditional Strasbourg Food Tour is perfect, as lunch is included .

This is your opportunity to try some of the food Strasbourg is famous for and learn about the heritage of each dish.

Plus, you’ll get to explore the city with your guide at the same time taking in the many historical sights.

Taste the BEST Alsatian food, wine and beer
A small PERSONALISED group with a maximum of 10 people
Learn Strasbourg’s rich culinary heritage from a LOCAL with insider knowledge

▶︎ BOOK NOW: The Traditional Strasbourg Food Tour

No 3 – Take a boat cruise in Strasbourg

A small white luxury yacht on the river in Strasbourg with a French flag and some people in it. The bank of the river has people and trees and some buildings

See Strasbourg in style and take a Private Boat Tour of Strasbourg with your own Captain, Cedric, who will also be your guide.

With 130+ Five-Star reviews , it’s a perfect way to see all the main tourist attractions in Strasbourg.

This small luxury yacht will be yours for two hours and can host up to seven people.

You’ll pass by 13 landmarks of Strasbourg and have the opportunity to see La Petite France, Parc de l’Orangerie and the European Parliament.

Completely private luxury yacht for up to 7 people
Option of day or night tour
A unique tour of Strasbourg on the water

▶︎ BOOK NOW: The Private Boat Tour of Strasbourg

No 4 – Private Walking Tour of Strasbourg

A deserted street in Strasboourg with half-timbered buildings either side and a shop with a postcard stand outside

If you prefer to take your time and enjoy walking, this Private Walking Tour of Strasbourg is the perfect way to see all the quaint places and hidden gems in this city.

Discover the fascinating history and German heritage behind this picturesque city with an English-speaking guide .

Walk in the footsteps of Napolean and Marie-Antoinette, who both stayed at the 18th-century Palais Rohan.

Spend time in the Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral and find out how the district of La Petite France actually got its name.

Includes admission to the Strasbourg Cathedral
Expert English-speaking local guide
Two-hour guided walking tour

▶︎ BOOK NOW: The Private Walking Tour of Strasbourg

No 5 – Interactive, Self-Guided City Tour of Strasbourg

The clock on the gothic cathedral in Strasbourg at night with people walking around

If you love the idea of doing a DIY tour, then the Self-Guided City Tour of Strasbourg is just the thing, especially if you love quizzes and challenges.

Collect your backpack from the Tourist Office and start the tour whenever you want to .

All the audio is available in English , and you can use it offline by downloading the commentary once you’ve registered.

The price is per group. Download the tour onto your phone through the App
Your backpack contains six fun surprises
Stop and start at your convenience with the total tour time being 2 ½ hours

BOOK NOW: The Self-Guided City Tour of Strasbourg

A Private Tour from Paris to Strasbourg

The Strasbourg Cathedral overlooking the river with lots of green trees either side and a building on the left bank

If you decide that one day in Strasbourg is just not enough, then why not treat yourself to a 2-Day Tour from Paris going to Burgundy and Alsace ?

The tour starts as it means to go on, in luxury, as you’re picked up from your hotel in Paris in a Mercedes.

Taste 19 different wines from vineyards in Beaune and Chablis and enjoy visiting the towns of Colmar, Reims , and, of course, Strasbourg.

If there is something in particular you want to see, you can completely tailor your trip so you see everything on your list.

Completely private and customized luxury tour
Travel in a luxury Mercedes from Paris to Strasbourg
Enjoy tasting rare and exclusive wines
The price includes a night’s accommodation in Colmar
Visit several of France’s most in-demand wine regions

▶︎ BOOK NOW: 2-Day Tour of Burgundy and Alsace from Paris

The outside of an old hotel in Strasbourg against an evening sky

The BEST places to stay in Strasbourg for the Christmas markets >>>

Three Things you MUST do on a day trip to Strasbourg

This might be a whirlwind tour of Strasbourg, but there are some things you really shouldn’t miss. Most French cities have their regional produce, and Strasbourg is no different.

There are many great dishes you should try, but my favourite has to be the three listed below.

No 1 – Drink some Alsatian Wine

A restaurant with tables outside with red gingham tablecloths in a cobbled street in Strasbourg

Strasbourg is in the Alsace wine region, so it stands to reason that there is likely to be some good wine to try. My recommendation would be to go to the Wolfberger Boutique , as they have some of the best Alsace wines.

And they offer free wine tastings daily, I mean, what’s not to love? Plus, they’ve been doing this since 1902, so they know a thing or two about wine, so you’ll be in good hands.

If you like what you taste, you can buy a bottle from the shop to take home with you as a reminder of your trip.

📍 ADDRESS: 9 Rue Hannong, 67000 Strasbourg

No 2 – Try a Tarte Flambée

Two hands taking a slice of tarte flambee on a serving wooden plate

This is traditional Strasbourg food, but don’t let the name mislead you. This is not a dessert, it’s an Alsatian-style pizza and, it’s delicious.

Also known as flammekueche, the main ingredients are cream, onions and bacon.

You’ll then find other things added, such as mushrooms and grated cheese, and it’s usually a shared dish rather than for just one person.

No 3 – Indulge in a Beer & Bretzel Combo

A bottle of beer, a bottle of wine, a pretzel and some cheese on a red gingham tablecloth

These two things go together like peanut butter and jelly, or if you’re British, let’s go with eggs and bacon.

The Bretzel is the Strasbourg version of a pretzel, baked and twisted into the traditional knot.

Often topped with cheese or other savoury-style items, they are beyond tasty. You’ll find them in most bakeries, and my favourite was L’Atelier 116 bakery .

These little beauties are also at many of the Christmas markets in France , and they are seriously yummy.

And once you’ve got your Bretzel, head to Les BerThoM , possibly one of the best bars in Strasbourg and only a stone’s throw from the cathedral.

They have an amazing selection of beer from the microbreweries around the city.

A bathroom in a luxury hotel in Strasbourg with a bath and sink and yellow brick walls that have been pointed

15 BEST Luxury Hotels in Strasbourg for travellers in 2024 >>>

Where to eat and drink in Strasbourg

A restaurant set up on a terrace outside of a restaurant in Strasbourg by the river with trees hanging over and a white van in the background

Let me say this right now, the food in Strasbourg is not like the traditional cuisine you think of when people talk about French food.

One of the reasons why I recommend spending more than 24 hours in Strasbourg is to enjoy the variety of food on offer.

If you love sausages as much as I do, Alsatian food will appeal as there are a lot of German-style sausages on offer.

But don’t worry, there are also plenty of fabulous French options too, including cheese and pastries.

Chez Yvonne

Chez Yvonne is THE place to be if you’re looking for somewhere traditional to have lunch in Strasbourg.

It first opened its doors in 1873 under the ownership of Eugène Jacquemet, who had it until 1920, under the name of Winstub S’Burjerstuewel.

At this time, the French drank in Winstubs and drank wine, hence the name.

In 1956, it was taken over by Yvonne Haller and became known as ‘Chez Yvonne’.

It’s a fabulous little place with classic Alsatian decor, including gingham curtains and tablecloths. And with queues going out the door, you’ll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat.

📍ADDRESS: 10 Rue du Sanglier, 67000 Strasbourg
🌐 BOOK: Book a Table & Read Reviews

Being vegan in France is no laughing matter, and although things have improved, there are still limited options available.

Although I’m not vegan myself, my next-door neighbour, Simon, is vegan, and he always tells me about the best vegan restaurants he finds on his travels.

Whilst they don’t take reservations, you can order online for takeaway or have it delivered, if you need to.

📍ADDRESS: Rue des bateliers 67000 Strasbourg
🌐 WEBSITE: Order online & Read Reviews

What you should know about the historic city of Strasbourg

Strasburg is a city with an interesting past. Sat on the French-German border, it has had a bit of an identity struggle, switching between being ruled by France and being ruled by Germany.

So, of course, you see influences from both countries not just within the history but through the architecture, decor, food, drink and culture.

For 400 years, Strasbourg was a “free imperial city”, and it wasn’t until 1681 that it fell under French rule when Louis XIV of France, The Sun King, conquered the city, officially claiming it as part of France.

A three storey house in Strasbourg which is half-timbered and has blue shutters and cream walls with some green plants in front of it

But then came the Franco-Prussian War, which saw it switch to German rule.

Then in World War I it returned to French rule. During World War II, it was under German occupation until the end of the war, when it was reclaimed, once again and, for the final time, by France.

Aside from the power struggle of who ruled Strasbourg, some other pretty impressive things happened there.

In 1605, it became the birthplace of the very first newspaper, not a bad claim to fame, and in 1792, Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle composed the French national anthem, La Marseillaise, whilst in Strasbourg.

In 1949, the city was chosen as the headquarters for the Council of Europe, making it an important centre for European diplomacy.

A round silver modern building across the water in Strasbourg with a wooden walkway going across the river

The European quarter in Strasbourg, where many European institutions are located, is primarily centred around the area known as the “Orangerie” and the “Wacken” district.

This part of the city houses the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights, among other European institutions.

FAQS: Taking a Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris

When is the best time to visit strasbourg.

I’m biased because I love Christmas , so for me, December is the best time to visit Strasbourg. The Christmas markets are wonderful and showcase this historic city at its best. But Spring is another great time to go as the weather is warmer and the crowds haven’t yet descended for the summer.

Is one day enough in Strasbourg?

No, one day is not enough time in Strasbourg. There is just too much to see and do, not just in Strasbourg, but also in the surrounding areas. I would suggest 3-5 days to allow you time to do everything, more if you want to do some wine-tasting tours in the Alsace region .

How much does it cost to travel from Paris to Strasbourg?

It all depends on how organized you are. If you are going by train and book 30 days in advance , travelling from Paris to Strasbourg can be as little as €25. However, if you leave it, prices can go up to around €75.

Can you do a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris?

Yes, you can absolutely do a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris. If you catch an early train from Paris , you can be in Strasbourg in under two hours, giving you the whole day to explore the city.

Is there a train station from Paris to Strasbourg?

Yes, the best station to use to travel from Paris to Strasbourg is Paris’ Gare de l’Est. This will take you directly into Gare de Strasbourg-Ville, the main station in Strasbourg and the train is direct if you use SNCF.

What is the cheapest way to get from Paris to Strasbourg?

The cheapest way to get from Paris to Strasbourg is by coach, but it is also a very long journey and can take up to 9 hours. You’re better off catching a train which can get you there in just over 90 minutes.

How much is a high speed train from Paris to Strasbourg?

If you’re smart and book in advance, a high speed train from Paris to Strasbourg can be as little as €25. The best train is the TGV which is operated by SNCF. Remember, the earlier you book the better the price.

Final thoughts: Spending a day in Strasbourg

Doing a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris is totally doable and you’ll be going from one romantic city to another . The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to leave early and take a TGV Train as it gets you there the fastest way possible.

My other big tip is to take one of the tours of the city, either by taking a bike tour OR doing one of the walking tours , as this will give you more bang for your buck in the shortest time. And you’ll get to see much more of this fabulous city.

At the end of the day, Strasbourg is a beautiful historic city and well worth taking a day out of Paris to make the trip.

TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?

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Kylie Lang is the founder of Life in Rural France. She moved to France in 2016 and lives in the beautiful Charente region in the Nouvelle Aquitaine. Through the blog, she showcases the best places to visit in France, especially in the South West. From chateaux and winery tours to hotels and restaurants, she has first-hand experience of life in France.

Paris City Today

Updated: 15.05.2024

Day trip to Strasbourg from Paris - Steb-by-Step

→ paris in a week - itinerary, early morning start:, explore strasbourg:, strasbourg cathedral.

European Parliament

Culinary Experience:

Return journey:, → 10 days in france itinerary, architecture.

Best Restaurants in Strasbourg

Best hotels in central strasbourg, paris map & hotels, strasbourg architecture.

Explore Europe by Train: Easy Day Trips and Connected Cities

| Paris to Strasbourg Day Trip | Paris to Strasbourg Train | Strasbourg Train Station

Paris to Strasbourg Train Day Trip

Oh, how I love the train system in Europe. With it, so many things are possible – and today I want to share how you can use the Paris to Strasbourg train to make a Paris to Strasbourg day trip work for you!

The first and most important tip for you to be thinking about as soon as possible is…

Get Your Paris to Strasbourg Train Tickets Early!

The key here is to buy these tickets in advance. Three months in advance if you can manage it for maximum cost savings. I just looked at ticket prices for the Paris to Strasbourg train right now. If I want to go in two days, the tickets are going to cost me €112 – €121. Yipes.

BUT, if I want to go 3 months from today, the very same ticket is going to cost me €35. Yep. €35. That’s an insane savings if you are willing to plan ahead. In fact, I would even consider looking at my time in Paris, picking a day, and buying the ticket 3 months ahead – even if I’m not 100% sure I’ll do the trip.

Where to Purchase the Paris to Strasbourg Train Tickets

My preferred site to research tickets Rome2Rio . You can explore all different options, including other public transportation and flights, before making your choice. The English version of the site is easily understandable, some tickets can be purchased directly through Rome2Rio website, and the ones that refer you through to another authorized site to purchase are also fairly easy to understand and navigate. Purchase on line and the will show up in your email within minutes. You can print a hardcopy and/or download to your smart phone. (I do both, I’m paranoid.) Either one is fine to be scanned on the train.

Step-by-step guide to Paris CDG Train station | Paris airport train station | Paris charles de gaulle train station | Paris to Strasbourg Day Trip | Paris to Strasbourg Train | Strasbourg Train Station

Your Paris to Strasbourg Train (and back)

The beauty of a Paris to Strasbourg day trip is that train travel between Paris Charles de Gaulle Train Station and Strasbourg Train Station is really pretty easy. If you want to get a look at the station ahead of time, check out this Paris CDG train station guide . As of this writing, there are direct trains that take approximately 1 hour 50 minutes that depart Paris CDG and arrive in Strasbourg with no train changes in between. The current morning times for direct trains are:

Depart Paris CDG at 8:50am and arrive in Strasbourg at 10:49am
Departs Paris CDG at 11:21am and arrive in Strasbourg 1:11pm.

Obviously, to maximize your Strasbourg day trip from Paris, go with the 8:50 train. Throw a warm croissant in your bag, grab a coffee, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast while you read about Strasbourg on the train. 😀

There are other train options scattered in there, but they all require at least one train train change and take anywhere from 2 hours 22 minutes to 3 hours and 8 minutes because of the changes, and that’s just silliness.

For your return trains, there are several options depending on how long you want to stay in Strasbourg. Each train takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes again for the direct (no train changes) option. The farther ahead you book, the better your pricing, again, with the return trains in 3 months ranging from €25 -€53 right now. Currently the trains in 3 months are:

Depart Strasbourg Train Station at 4:17pm and arrive Paris CDG at 6:05pm
Depart Strasbourg Train Station at 5:17pm and arrive Paris CDG at 7:05pm
Depart Strasbourg Train Station at 6:17pm and arrive Paris CDG at 8:14pm

Navigating Paris CDG Train Station:

The Paris CDG Train Station is actually right in the middle of Terminal 2 of the Paris CDG Airport. Yeah, I know, that sounds intimidating, and I was intimidated at first, too. But, as with so much of travel the key is to be prepared, read the signs, and when in doubt – ask someone. All of the officials and employees I talked to at major train stations in France spoke English, thank goodness, since I’m not the French-speaker in the family!

If you want some help in being prepared, check out this Step-by-Step Guide to Paris CDG Train Station .

Arriving at Strasbourg Train Station

The intimidation factor drops significantly on your Paris to Strasbourg day trip after departing the Paris CDG station. Strasbourg train station is beautiful, but smaller and pretty straight forward, so yay for that! You will arrive at outdoor, covered platforms and follow the crowd downstairs to an underground hallway that leads to the main hall. From there the exit is self explanatory.

Why Do a Paris to Strasbourg Day Trip?

Strasbourg, France is an ideally located French city with a richly historic Old Town area. Within walkable distance you can walk the picturesque Petite France area and marvel at the intricate medieval and elegant renaissance architecture. If you enjoy exploring rich European churches, the Cathedrale Notre-Dame of Strasbourg is gorgeous, and tucked inside the science and engineering involved in the astronomical clock will humble our modern science knowledge. The heart of the historic district, the Grande-Ile, and the neighboring Neustadt area have both been named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Strasbourg also has an excellent public transport system, so use this step-by-step guide to Strasbourg Tram to take advantage and give your feet a break.

If you are looking for more than a Paris to Strasbourg day trip, spend a little more time in the area and explore the Alsace wine region or any number of French and German cities within easy reach. Strasbourg makes an excellent stopover point on a westerward trip where it can be used as a home base to explore other cities such as Nancy, Colmar, Mullhouse, or even the spa town of Baden-Baden, Germany. If you are interested in making Strasbourg a home-base for a bit, here are some great ideas for day trips from Strasbourg .

Strasbourg main sights:

There is plenty to keep you occupied in Strasbourg for several days. If you want a more complete list, check out my 10 Best Things To Do in Strasbourg France that comes with a handy map. Or if it’s more your thing, be sure to do some shopping in Strasbourg . However, if you are strictly making a day trip, the areas to focus on would be:

Petite France

This is probably the most picturesque corner of Strasbourg, populated with the half-timbered houses, and even the departure point for an hour long river cruise..

Barrage Vauban – constructed in the late 1600s to reinforce medieval fortifications, it is still beautiful to walk through. Even better, walk across the top level for excellent views of Petite France and Ponts Couverts

Ponts Couverts – The Ponts Couverts was built in the first half of the 1200s, and were originally covered by tiled roofs. Rebuilt in the 1800s, the bridges are a beautiful sight.

Strasbourg Grande-Île sites

Place de la Cathedrale – the heart of Strasbourg this square is home to the most visited sights in Strasbourg including the Cathedrale, Palais des Rohan, and prominent medieval buildings.

Cathedrale Notre Dame Strasbourg – the intricately stone-worked Cathedrale was begun in 1277, and the highest spire, the highest in Christendom until the 1800s, was completed in 1439.

Astronomical Clock – While the actual show of the astronomical clock at 12:30 I did not find overwhelmingly impressive, the documentary-style movie leading up to it demonstrates the truly impressive science and engineering that went into the design of this clock that went through several re-buildings between its start in 1352 and the inauguration of the current one in 1842.

Palais Rohan – This gorgeous building constructed between 1732 – 1742 has been home to Strasbourg Cardinals and Napoleon, and now houses three separate museums.

Place Kléber – This square is the largest in the city. Today, in addition to the fountain and statue of Jean-Baptiste Kléber, the square is ringed by a restaurant, a Starbucks, and many very nice shopping options.

The Rest of Strasbourg

Place de République Square – This grand and elegant square, ringed by public buildings, has a completely different feel than the Old Town section of Strasbourg. Most striking is the 1936 memorial in the center speaking to Strasbourg’s town allegiance through history with a mother holding her two sons: one who died for France, and the other for Germany.

Parc de l’Orangerie – This park was created with 140 orange trees that were confiscated during the revolution. Today it is also home to a boating lake, waterfall, yummy gelato stands, and a stork reintroduction center.

Seat of the European Parliament – 27 countries of the European Union meet here 4 days a month.

Have a wonderful time exploring this beautiful city – it really isn’t hard to take the Paris to Strasbourg train and make a Paris to Strasbourg Day Trip happen!

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How to Travel from Paris to Strasbourg (The Easy Way)

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Strasbourg is one of the best cities in France and shouldn’t be missed. The good new is that it is super easy to travel fro Paris to Strasbourg.

The bad new is that it can be quite expensive- especially if you don’t book your ticket in advance!

You can travel from Paris to Strasbourg by train, bus, car, or ride share, but the only realistic way for a tourist to travel from Paris to Strasbourg is by train. It takes over 5.5 hours to drive from Paris to Strasbourg. The Paris to Strasbourg train takes less than 2 hours. The train from Paris to Strasbourg is slightly more expensive than the bus or a ride share, but it is worth the extra money to arrive in Strasbourg quickly!

In this post, we’re going to discuss all the different ways to travel to Strasbourg from Paris, so you can figure out what transportation method is the best for you .

But it will most likely be the train!

PS- you have to take the metro to the train station, so check out this post to learn all my secret tips on using the Paris metro like a local!

Table of Contents

Option One: Taking the Train from Paris to Strasbourg

It isn’t even a discussion.

The best way to travel from Paris to Strasbourg is to take the train!

It is the quickest way to travel between the two cities and is the only real viable option for tourists. Especially if you’re taking a day trip to Strasbourg.

I’m not going to sugar coat it.

The Paris to Strasbourg train can be expensive, but we’ll discuss the best way to lower your ticket cost a little bit later.

The price is worth the convenience the train provides!

How Long Does the Paris to Strasbourg Train Take?

There is always some variability in the length of your train journey.

It depends on what time of day and how busy the train lines are.

On average, the train from Paris to Strasbourg takes just under 2 hours !

That’s significantly faster than any other mode of transportation!

How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?

There is a lot of fluctuation when it comes to how much a train ticket from Paris to Strasbourg costs.

Tickets range anywhere from €16 to €230. That is approximately $19USD to $275USD.

That’s a huge price difference!

You don’t want to get stuck paying a fare closer to the higher end of that range.

There are a number of things that impact the price of your ticket:

How far in advance you book your ticket. The earlier you purchase your ticket, the cheaper it is.
What time of day you depart. It is always cheaper to travel during off-peak times.
What day of the week you travel. Weekends are more expensive than weekdays.
Your age. France has discounted train fare for people under 26 and older than 60.
What class you travel in. Second class is much more affordable than first class.

Out of all of the factors, the most important one is booking your ticket early!

You can book your train ticket 3 months in advance .

The closer you are to the date of departure, the more expensive the ticket is. Even if there is still lots of seat available, the ticket price continues to rise as the date nears.

It requires some advance planning, but it is well worth planning and knowing when you’re travelling from Paris to Strasbourg as close to three months in advance as possible.

I like to wing my trips a fair amount, but I’m 100% down to plan in advance if it saves me a lot of money!

The last time I booked a train ticket to Strasbourg from Charles de Gaulle Airport, it was around €40, and I booked it almost exactly three months in advance.

And then reluctantly had to cancel it because of COVID-19. 🙁

Where to Purchase Train Tickets

You can either purchase your ticket online in advance or at the train station.

I highly recommend purchasing your ticket online in advance. It will save you a lot of money!

You can easily book your train ticket through the SNCF website.

The website is super easy to use, have an English option, and accepts foreign credit cards.

One thing to note is you do need to print your ticket and have a paper copy to show the ticket checker onboard.

The other option is to purchase your ticket at the train station.

You can either purchase it a few days in advance at the station or purchase your train ticket on the day you departure.

Look out for the yellow SNCF ticket booth.

That’s where you purchase the train ticket from Paris to Strasbourg. You can also purchase it from a ticket booth employee, but, in my experience, there is always a long line to purchase your tickets from an actual human being.

Using the ticket booth is a much simpler option!

But buying your ticket online in advance is the best option by far!

Where Does the Train Depart from in Paris?

You can jump on the Paris to Strasbourg train from either:

Charles de Gaulle

Both are convenient, and it is really a matter of what is the best station for you. Most people depart from Paris Est, but some people arrive at Charles de Gaulle and go directly to Strasbourg.

Where Does the Train Arrive at in Strasbourg?

The train arrives at Strasbourg Station .

It is the only train station in Strasbourg, and it is located in the city centre!

Advantages of Taking the Paris to Strasbourg Train

Fastest way to travel from Paris to Strasbourg
14 trains depart per day
Train departs and arrives in central areas

Disadvantages of Taking the Paris to Strasbourg Train

Have to book months in advance to get a decent price
Have to have a physical ticket (electronic tickets not accepted)

Option Two: Taking the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg

The next best option is taking the bus from Paris to Strasbourg.

It is a distant second place but second place nonetheless.

I don’t really see a reason to take the bus to Strasbourg from Paris unless you have a lot of time on your hands and are on a very tight budget.

How Long Does the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg Take?

This hurts to tell you.

On average, it takes 8.5 hours to travel the 491km from Paris to Strasbourg.

Ouch, right!

That’s three hours longer than it takes to drive straight to Strasbourg from Paris. It is a painful journey.

The journey time is the reason I don’t recommend taking the bus between these two cities.

It isn’t that much cheaper, and it is actually more expensive than the train when you factor in what your time is worth!

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

The bus ticket isn’t as inexpensive as you may think!

I kind of expect such a long journey that takes four times as long as the train to come at a discounted price, but it doesn’t really.

Of course the price of a bus ticket fluctuates based on what time of day you leave and what day of the week it is.

On average, a bus ticket costs € 21 (approximately $25USD).

That is actually more expensive than the cheapest train ticket! It is, however, about €20 less than the average price of a train ticket.

Let’s be honest though. Those six extra hours you’re on the bus is worth a whole lot more than €20!

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets

Just like the train, you can purchase your bus tickets either in advance online or in person on the day of departure.

There is no price advantage to purchasing your bus ticket online in advance like there is with the train.

If it were me, I would just pick up my ticket at the station the day I leave. Just make sure you leave extra time in case there is a line for tickets!

The best place to purchase bus tickets online in advance is through Omio . They historically have the best ticket prices around!

Most buses accept an electronic version of your ticket, so that is a nice change from the train. You’re good to go as long as you have a screenshot or email with the ticket code on it!

Where Does the Bus Depart from in Paris?

The bus from Paris to Strasbourg departs from Quai de Bercy .

It is located right along the Seine about 5km south of the Louvre.

PS- be sure to check out my post about the wifi situation in Paris!

The closest metro station to Quai de Bercy is Cour Saint Émilion, and it is only a couple blocks away from the bus station.

Where Does the Bus Arrive at in Strasbourg?

The bus arrives at Place de l’Étoile in Strasbourg.

It is very central and is less than 200m from the train station!

Advantages of Taking the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg

Don’t have to purchase tickets in advance
Can present an electronic ticket
Dedicated luggage storage under the bus

Disadvantages of Taking the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg

Very time consuming
Not much cheaper than the train
Departure station in Paris less central than Paris Est

Option Three: Catching a Ride Share from Paris to Strasbourg

I’m not going to chit chat about these last two options in too much detail.

They are by far the least used options, and I don’t think many of my readers will see them as the best option for them.

But a few of you may, so I want to give you all the information!

The third best way to travel from Paris to Strasbourg is to participate in a ride share.

You can connect with other people ride sharing through Carpool World . It connects passengers and drivers who want to ride share, save on gas, and help the environement!

It is difficult to give you an exact price for ride sharing from Paris to Strasbourg. There are just too many variables.

The biggest thing that changes the price is how many people are participating in the ride share. The more people that share a ride, the less expensive it will be!

If you drive straight from Paris to Strasbourg without stopping, it will take about five hours to make the journey to Strasbourg from Paris.

I think participating in a ride share is a good option for people who are free spirited and up for an adventure.

You’ll probably meet some very interesting people when you participate in a ride share!

Option Four: Renting a Car and Driving from Paris from Strasbourg

Your final option is to rent a car and drive from Paris to Strasbourg.

I don’t recommend this option unless it is part of a larger road trip around France or Europe.

It simply isn’t worth the expense or stress of driving from Paris to Strasbourg when you can take the train.

Kick back, relax, and enjoy the scenery from the window of a train!

If you do choose to drive from Paris to Strasbourg, it will take about 5 hours . Most people who road trip aren’t driving almost 500km without stopping.

I highly recommend you take your time and stop at some small towns along the way to get a sense of what life outside of a big city in France is like!

Pro tip: before spending an arm and a leg on car insurance, make sure you look into what insurances your credit card has. Most travel credit cards come with extensive car insurance, so you don’t have to pay for the expensive insurance car rental companies try to sell you!

As you can see, there are a number of different ways to travel from Paris to Strasbourg.

There is only one realistic and viable way, and that is taking the Paris to Strasbourg train.

It is the quickest way to travel to Strasbourg from Paris by a long shot! The next quickest option is about three hours longer than the train!

You could literally travel from Paris to Strasbourg and Strasbourg to Paris and still have an hour to kill before someone driving arrived!

I think you should most definitely visit Strasbourg. I always recommend for people to get out of Paris and see more of France.

PS- be sure to read my post on the best day trips from Paris!

How to Travel from Paris to Strasbourg (The Easy Way)

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The Five Best Day-Trips from Paris - Excursion 2: Strasbourg

Mon 20 Feb 2023

Explore easily accessible out-of-town wonders, all while having both morning-time café crème and a late evening bistro beer in Paris.

When it comes to things to see and do, Paris really packs a punch. You could come back a dozen times and still leave feeling as though you’d just scratched the surface. Though you might feel like you’re cheating on her by going out of town, Paris won’t mind at all if you venture out beyond the Périphérique – the capital’s multi-lane ring road – to meander further afield for a provincial pause. And the City of Lights will still be there for you to embrace when you return to her that same evening.

Each of the places we’ve selected can certainly be reached by car, if you prefer the freedom of renting a vehicle and getting around on your own. For many of the places on our list, there are shuttle bus options as well. But we’ve made a specific point of identifying spots that are also well connected by France’s excellent and affordable network of trains.

Today we’re off to the surprising city of Strasbourg. All aboard!

The largest city in Alsace and the region’s capital, Strasbourg proper is home to nearly 300,000 people, and the population of the metropolitan area (including the part that lies within Germany) is almost 1,350,000.

Besides being the economic engine of northeastern France, Strasbourg is one of the three European capitals, along with Brussels and Luxembourg. The Council of Europe, the European Parliament, and the European Court of Human Rights, and a few other institutions of the European Union, are based here. The University of Strasbourg counts about 57,000 students, twenty percent of whom are from other countries. All of this lends an air of cosmopolitan sophistication to this provincial city.

The real appeal of Strasbourg, though, is due principally to geography. For centuries, France has considered the Rhine River as one of the Hexagon’s natural borders. And for centuries, Germany has disagreed. The historic riverside region of Alsace has passed from one country to the other since Charlemagne’s grandchildren divided up his hard-won empire in the 9 th century. The inevitable mixing and mingling of tongues and tastes, of customs and cuisines, makes Strasbourg one of the most fascinating cities in all of France.

The trip by train from Paris’ Gare de l’Est runs an hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. You’ll be hopping off at Strasbourg’s Gare Centrale, and a five-minute walk brings you into the very heart of the historic city, the Grande Île. Bordered by the Ill River and one of its many branches, the Canal du Faux-Rempart, this little island is home to myriad medieval half-timbered houses, traditional restaurants and beerhalls, and the gob-smacking gothic Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Strasbourg. From the middle of the 17 th century and for nearly 200 years, this was the tallest building in the world. The square in front of the cathedral features splendid spots for soaking in the sun when the weather is agreeable, and in December it is the venue of one of the oldest and finest Christmas Markets in all of Europe. If you’ve got the energy for the 332-step climb, the view from the cathedral’s roof will have you lording and ladying it over the whole of the city, as well as the surrounding countryside from the Vosges to the Black Forest.

At the southwest end of the island is the area known as la Petite France . It is charming, picturesque, overrun with tourists during the heady days of summer, and absolutely worth ambling around anyway. Restaurants along the riverfront are the most enviable spots for mealtime. During high season, you will need to plan ahead to reserve your spot. Be sure to specify inside or outside, as many of them have quayside tables.

You will also want to do a bit of research, looking at reviews. Here’s a pro traveler tip: look at reviews written by visitors from France and Germany. They’re the ones who will really know if the food is properly prepared, and it’s easy enough to run what they’ve written through online translators. Keep an open mind, though, because European reviewers tend to have very high standards, and 5-star ratings are rare indeed. For a spot frequented even by the most demanding locals, try Chez Yvonne (10, rue du Sanglier). Just a couple of blocks from the cathedral but nestled in a rabbit’s warren of winding narrow streets, the restaurant offers delectable versions of local dishes, like liver quenelles with cream and sautéed apples, and black pudding with apple confit. Délicieux! Sehr lecker!

You won’t want to leave Strasbourg without taking a boat cruise through the canals. Most boats are heated in the winter and air-conditioned in the hottest part of the summer, so this can be a welcome respite from the elements and a chance to rest your feet during a long day of exploring. There are a number of companies that operate boat tours, but they are so sought-after that it’s always best to reserve your place well ahead of time, regardless of the season.

While la Petite France is at the southwestern tip of the island, just across the canal to the northwest is the area called Neustadt , literally “New City”. Development began here in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War in the later 1800s. The war resulted in the collapse of France’s Second Empire and the birth of the German Empire, declared in the hallowed halls of Versailles. Alsace and Lorraine were annexed to the new Empire, and construction in Strasbourg’s Neustadt quarter – which continued until the beginning of the First World War in 1914 – was an expression of German identity and pride. Because Strasbourg was spared the largescale devastation suffered by so many city centers in Germany during the Second World War, the expansive Neustadt neighborhood is considered by many to be the best surviving example of German Imperial architecture. Practically a city within a city, the Neustadt was conceived to feature broad boulevards, theaters, schools, parks, churches, and stately apartment buildings with elegant shops and restaurants for fine dining on the ground floor. In addition, the German authorities located a number of administrative offices in the area, bestowing an air of power and importance.

The Neustadt is a showcase of the “Neo”: Neo-Byzantine, Neo-Romanesque, Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and one might even say Neo-Haussmanian, like the area of the recently-completed Grand Boulevards in Paris. Of particular note are the imposing Rhine Palace, built as a residence for the Imperial family, and, facing it from just across the river, the University Palace. Connecting the two is the Avenue de la Liberté, Imperial Strasbourg’s answer to Paris’ Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

No visit to Strasbourg would be complete without a pint of proper Alsatian beer. With a history in Strasbourg for nearly 800 years, the city’s brewing industry truly came into its own in the second half of the 19 th century. Connected by a new railway line to Paris, Strasbourg had access to the capital, and the brewers took full advantage of it. Alsace remains France’s most important brewing region: 60 % of all the beer consumed in the Hexagon is brewed here, and this is where nearly all of the country’s hops are grown.

For a taste of high-style tradition right in the city center, stop in at the Brasserie Floderer (8, rue de l’Outre). Settle into your seat surrounded by the cosmopolitan elegance of the Jugendstil , Imperial Germany’s interpretation of Art Nouveau. It’s a treat for the senses that you won’t forget. If, however, you’re interested in a revisitation of classic brews, along with some modern experimental alternatives, nestle in among the coppers in the urban-funky but homey atmosphere of La Lanterne Microbrasserie (5, rue de la Lanterne). It sits along a spotlessly narrow street just a few blocks south of the grandiose Place Kléber, and you’re as likely to find local aficionados here as the more intrepid and well-informed visitors, such as yourselves! The beer is magnificent in both brasseries, and you have the option to just enjoy your beer or have dinner along with it: fine dining at the Floderer and excellent home-style grub at La Lanterne.

The two-hour train trip will have you back at your hotel in Paris in time for a late evening bistro beer – just to stay in theme!

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Day trip from Paris to Strasbourg Enjoy the World Heritage Site Grande Île de Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a popular tourist city in north-eastern France, two hours from Paris by TGV.

It is a fascinating city with a long history and a mix of cultures from many different countries.

General tourism is concentrated on the Grande Île de Strasbourg, which is the mid-island of the River Île and a World Heritage Site.

The island is lined with various historic buildings, including the Petite France district with its cluster of timber-framed houses, the cathedral and the Rohan Palace.

The city has a compact cluster of tourist attractions, making it a city that can be enjoyed even by first-time visitors.

Let me now introduce you to the fascinating city of Strasbourg.

From Paris to Strasbourg

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The journey from Paris to Strasbourg is by TGV, a high-speed rail vehicle operated by French Railways.

The ride takes less than two hours.

This time, we stayed at the Staycity Appartement hôtel Gare de l’Est.

It is located less than a five-minute walk from Paris East train station, so it is very easy to plan your way there and back without having to take the metro or bus.

For more information.

TGV to Strasbourg departs at 7.55 am.

Considering that the ride takes about two hours, it arrives exactly at around 10.00 am.

This time I am introducing a day trip from Paris to Strasbourg, but I actually travelled directly from Nancy, which I introduced earlier, to Strasbourg and stayed overnight. The method of travelling from Paris to Strasbourg is the same as going to Nancy, so if you are going either way, use Paris East train station to travel in the same way.

The station has a distinctive domed shape.

It has an atmosphere not found in other local city stations.

These are the places we visited during our tour of Strasbourg.

The yellow lines are trams, the purplish lines are walking and the green lines are buses.

The order of sightseeing is as follows.

Strasbourg railway station ⇒ tram ⇒ cathedral ⇒ Strasbourg Museum ⇒ walk ⇒ bus ⇒ Strasbourg Museum of Contemporary Art ⇒ tram ⇒ walk ⇒ cathedral ⇒ walk ⇒ hotel ⇒ Strasbourg railway station

The course is heavily walked.

As we had time to spare, we had to return to the cathedral twice, but if you are short on time, it is possible to do a simpler tour of the city.

Let me now introduce you in order of movement.

As mentioned earlier, this time we headed directly to Strasbourg after sightseeing in Nancy.

We then stayed at this hotel, the Best Western Plus Hôtel Monopole Métropole.

It was just a wonderful hotel.

We highly recommend this if you are staying in Strasbourg.

First, take a tram from the starting point, Strasbourg train station, to Strasbourg Cathedral.

You can travel directly from Strasbourg train station to the tram stop.

The station name is Gare Centrale.

It is directly connected to Strasbourg train station.

The boarding area is underground.

When you think of trams, you think of stations on the road, but Gare Centrale is an underground station.

Trams arriving at Gare Centrale.

Board the tram as soon as possible and head for Strasbourg Cathedral.

The tram are spacious and roomy.

It will be crowded at certain times of the day.

The train also displays a route map with a map, so it is not a problem if you do not understand the language.

The nearest train station to the cathedral is Langstross/Grand Rue.

It is the third stop from Gare Centrale.

It takes approximately 10 minutes.

Walking from the station down Rue Gutenberg, the cathedral immediately catches your eye.

Construction began in 1176 and was completed in 1439.

The cathedral is soon to celebrate 1,000 years of history.

It is a sightseeing spot that should not be missed, as it is just so overwhelming.

The Roan Palace is considered a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture.

Construction began in 1732 and took 10 years to complete, being completed in 1742.

Three museums currently occupy the building.

Located beside Strasbourg Cathedral.

Address：2 Place du Château, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday 10:00~18:00

Closed: Tuesday.

The entrance is at the far end of the Roan Palace.

This entrance leads to the three museums, so make sure you show your ticket at each entrance.

The Musée archéologique is located in the basement of the same entrance as the Musée des Arts décoratifs.

Stairs lead up to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg.

Once you have enjoyed the three museums at Rohan Palace, you can continue on foot to your next destination.

Cross the River Ile via the Rue du Bain-aux-Roses, flanked by Rohan Palace.

The view of the River Ile from Pont Ste Madeleine (Madeleine Bridge) is a beautiful sight.

The absence of tall buildings is one of its attractions.

One of Strasbourg’s attractions is that it is only a short walk from downtown and the cathedral to find such lovely views.

Cross the Madeleine Bridge and walk along the river along the Quai des Bateliers.

This street was a busy road for cars not long ago, but has now been converted into a footpath, which is wider and very easy to walk along.

The warmer months are also a good time to spend time in this area.

This is Rue Sainte-Madeleine.

Good view of the old town.

Once on Place du Corbeau, head towards Rue des Bouchers.

Continue along the road and turn right at Rue de la 1ère Armée to find the bus stop.

From here, take line 10 to the Museum of Contemporary Art Strasbourg.

Destination is Gare Centrale via Musée Art Mod./Gallia.

Buses run approximately every 15 minutes.

If you have a one-day ticket or other ticket, hold your ticket over the red area on the bus.

As with trams, there is a larger LCD guide.

This is great for travellers as they can see at a glance where the buses are running.

Line 10 is a circular line.

Musée d’Art Moderne drop-off station.

The ride takes about 10 minutes.

Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain de Strasbourg

Address：1 Place Hans-Jean-Arp, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00~18:00

Closed: Monday

The entrance to the Museum of Contemporary Art is five minutes from the bus stop via Rue de Molsheim.

A protective sluice built between 1681 and 1688.

They kept the enemy at bay by regulating the level of the River Ir.

The scenery is also beautiful when lit up at night, so if you plan to stay overnight, visit.

The bridge can also be passed through to the other side.

We did not go through to conserve our strength, but if you are interested, you can try it.

This photo shows the view opposite Barrage Vauban, towards Petite France.

Once you have seen the Museum of Contemporary Art Strasbourg and Barrage Vauban, return in the direction of the previous bus stop, this time by tram.

The station is located on Rue de Molsheim.

There were no users.

Trams running through this station are lines B and F.

Whichever you use, head to your next destination, Broglie.

This time, we will travel on the F line, which arrived first.

The interior of the car had a pop of colour.

The train width seemed narrower than on Line A.

After approximately 10 minutes, we arrived in Broglie.

This is the last time the tram will be used.

The city of Strasbourg is served by trams as well as buses, which can considerably reduce travel time.

Once off at Broglie, head towards Rue du Dôme.

Turn right at the first corner onto Rue du Temple Neuf.

On the left, the street is Rue du Sanglier.

The street is full of history.

The street itself was created in 1361.

The street is not very busy and can be strolled quietly.

The name of the street has changed many times and the current name, Rue du Sanglier, has been in use since 1945.

After Rue du Sanglier, you will come to Rue des Hallebardes, turn right and head towards the cathedral.

Address：1 Rue des Hallebardes, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: 07:30~19:30

Closed: None

The closest and best bakery to the cathedral is here.

The shops on Rue des Hallebardes are always busy.

We bought sandwiches here and ate them on benches around the cathedral.

Address：18 Rue des Serruriers, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 07:00~19:00

From the cathedral, take the Rue Mercière to the Rue des Serruriers.

After a short walk, you will see Biscottes Sante on your left.

This shop also offers regular baguettes, etc., but the best bet is the Kuglof.

All products are shop-made, simple but very tasty.

It is also an ideal souvenir.

Further along Rue des Serruriers, Église Saint-Thomas de Strasbourg can be seen on the left hand side.

The photos were taken during a night visit, so there is a different atmosphere than during the day.

The church of St Thomas has a very old history, having been used as a place of worship as far back as the 6th century.

The building was completed in 1521, and although there was a change of faith from Catholic to Protestant, it has been renovated and retains its original appearance.

Unfortunately, we were not able to go inside, but if you have time, please take a look.

There is an organ said to have been played by Mozart.

Address：116 Grand’Rue, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 07:00~19:00 Sunday 08:00~19:00

Continue straight on past St Thomas’ church to Rue de la Monnaie.

Turn right at the first corner onto Rue du Bouclier and go straight ahead onto Grand’Rue.

The shop on this corner is L’atelier 116.

It is always crowded with many customers.

Address：1 Rue de la Vignette, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: Monday 13:30~18:00 Tuesday to Saturday 10:00~19:00

Closed: Sunday

Continue on Grand’Rue to the slightly narrower Rue du Fossé-des-Tanneurs.

(It’s a bit confusing, so keep an eye on the Google map as you go.)

After a short walk, there is a small square on the left, behind which MACARONS ET INSPIRATION is located.

It was a bit confusing to find at first, but look for the colourful macaron figurines outside the shop.

This shop is said to have the best macarons in Strasbourg, so you should definitely stop by.

Address：7 Quai Saint-Jean, 67000 Strasbourg, France

Opening hours: 06:00~20:00

The head office is located in Mertzwiller, 40 km north of Strasbourg.

The baguettes are particularly good and are highly recommended.

The return TGV departs from Strasbourg station at 17:17.

It will be train 13, so head to the T shown on the screen.

The colours of the sky at sunset in Europe are unique.

The price did not change at the time of booking, so I will return in 1st class.

Paris East Station was reached in no time at all.

Strasbourg, like other cities in France, does not have a good toilet situation.

There are toilets in most places on this sightseeing route, so you shouldn’t have any problems, but there is a recommended toilet right next to the cathedral in case of an emergency.

It is located on the way from the cathedral to Rohan Palace, so keep it in mind in case of an emergency.

There are signs so it is easy to find.

Toilets are very clean and free to use.

We left Strasbourg train station at 10am and were able to see all the main sights, including the cathedral and museums.

We took a bit of a diversion as we were thinking mainly of the museum, but we still had plenty of time to get around before our return time.

In effect, the route took less than six hours to complete.

The actual visit was more compact than I had expected, so I was able to enjoy it with very little stress from moving around.

Another major factor was that the city itself is attractive, not just the sights, so it was enjoyable just to walk around.

Grande Île de Strasbourg, the main tourist attraction of this visit, is not very big, so the route we have described can be seen on foot.

(Of course, given the time involved and the physical demands, it is recommended to use trams and buses…)

Please consider the best sightseeing route according to the time you have to stay and the purpose of your visit.

We hope that this article will be of some help to you when planning your trip.

Thank you again for reading to the end of this issue.

One day in Strasbourg – a Strasbourg day-trip itinerary

If you only have one day in Strasbourg France, you want to make the most of it! I share my itinerary for a quick 1-day trip below. With my Strasbourg one-day itinerary, you’ll see the best of Strasbourg, and get a good feel of the city.

Obviously, you can always come back for more!

Wherever you’re coming from Luxembourg, Germany , Paris or Switzerland . Or if you have a week in the Alsace region, as I did, Strasbourg is a great gateway to Alsace France.

Strasbourg offers typical Alsace cuteness, excellent food, and centuries of history, and it is literally at the crossroads of Europe and European history.

I visited Strasbourg on a day trip by train from Colmar, and I’ll share the highlights of my visit with you.

I paid for everything in full myself. I was not paid or sponsored. All my opinions and experiences are my own.

Probe around the Globe does use affiliate links. If you decide to follow one of my links and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you.

One Day in Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg one-day itinerary

I agree, that Strasbourg deserves more than a day of your time, but sometimes, a day is all you can spare. Because there are so many other wonderful things to see in the region. I had to decide if I would stay overnight in Strasbourg or visit as a day trip from Colmar.

I decided to choose a day trip by train to Strasbourg and I had a great time.

Of course, your Strasbourg itinerary might look very different, because your interests are different or your travel companions are young children. That is why I stuck to the main sights to see, which offer a full range of what Strasbourg is like.

How to get to Strasbourg

As Strasbourg is so close to Luxembourg, Germany, and Switzerland it is easy to incorporate a visit to Strasbourg, even if you’re not staying in France.

Arrive by car

Strasbourg can be reached from all directions via the main motorways. But where to leave your car safely, without paying €25 per hour?!

Strasbourg has an elaborate network of park-and-ride-tram options. They are called “parking relais tram/bus”. You can park your car here the whole day, pay €4,10 – €4,60, and get tram/bus tickets for all people in your car! Super easy.

Arrive by train

Strasbourg is a major international hub. Trains from Germany and Switzerland stop in Strasbourg frequently. It also has a direct high-speed connection with Paris. Trains from Mulhouse and Colmar run 2 times per hour.

Arrive by plane

The Strasbourg Airport (SXB) is only 18 km/11 miles from downtown Strasbourg and your first pick if you want to fly into Strasbourg.

The EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (MHL) is 130 km south of Strasbourg but caters to different airlines and international routes.

One day in Strasbourg – my itinerary

As always, I recommend that you arrive early. A city like Strasbourg really deserves a full day and like any other place in France, lunch, and dinner take considerable time.

Before you go, check if you have specific needs for museums or sites that might be closed or have limited opening times in winter.

I specifically wanted to see the market, so I picked Wednesday to visit Strasbourg for my day trip.

Market visit in Strasbourg

I always like browsing markets when I travel abroad. The wide variety of items on display combined with the chatter of market stall owners with locals. And the vibrant colors and fabrics are things I like about markets.

In Strasbourg, you can take your pick of regular and specialty markets on offer.

I visited on Wednesday and visited the bookseller’s market (Place Kléber on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays) and I browsed the flower market (Rue des Grandes Arcades on Wednesdays and Fridays).

Other famous markets in Strasbourg are the produce markets on Place Broglie Square and Boulevard de la Marne. Or the farmer’s market on Saturdays (Rue de la Douane).

Visit Rohan Palace and one of Strasbourg’s Museums

As I arrived at the central train station of Strasbourg, I just followed the main roads into the center. It seems like the cathedral of Strasbourg is the main focal point of the historic center and all main roads lead to the cathedral.

For now, as it is still morning, I suggest you pass the cathedral and continue towards the Rohan Palace. This building on its own is quite interesting, but it also houses 3 interesting museums of Strasbourg.

Archeological Museum of Strasbourg
Museum of Fine Arts in Strasbourg
Strasbourg Decorative Arts Museum

Other great museum options, are located near the Rohan Palace and the Cathedral

Museum of Oeuvre Notre Dame
Alsatian museum in Strasbourg

For more information on all Strasbourg museums, opening hours, and visiting options, check this website .

I visited the Fine Arts Museum which had an interesting collection. The interior of the Rohan Palace is equally interesting so all in all, it was a good visit. I wouldn’t spend more than 1 hour in any of the museums (unless it is a very rainy day) as Strasbourg has so much more to offer.

When you visit Alsace, France, you might wonder if you need the Pass'Alsace tourist card and if it is worth your money. I share my practical tips

Cathedral of Strasbourg and Astronomic Clock

By now, it was time to finally address the big bold building in the center of the square: the cathedral of Strasbourg. I first took my time to walk the whole perimeter of this massive church on the outside.

I had a hard time capturing this elaborate building on camera as I could never get away far enough. It is that big!

I took my time to also explore the interior and sat down to admire the beautiful colorful glass stained windows.

Astronomic Clock at Strasbourg Cathedral

One of the main features of a visit to Strasbourg Cathedral is the Astronomical Clock. This Swiss masterpiece dates from 1842 and you can admire it free of charge.

Once a day (Monday to Saturday), at half-past noon (12.30 pm) the clock literally comes to life and a film and show are performed. Different figures come to live at the clock. The cathedral is closed during this time and tickets must be bought in advance from the south entrance of the cathedral.

The viewing of the Astronomic Clock and film are included in the Strasbourg Pass, get yours here .

Climb Strasbourg Cathedral for sweeping views

If you feel like working out or you just like a good viewing point, then Strasbourg Cathedral might have another surprise for you.

You can climb the spire of the cathedral, up to the platform at 66 meters for a view of the city. This does involve climbing 332 steps and an additional admission fee (€8) but the views are worth it!

Get a 50% discount to ascend the cathedral with the Strasbourg Pass, get yours here .

Typical Alsatian houses and Strasbourg Cathedral.

Lunchtime in Strasbourg

If you leave the cathedral behind and walk around Strasbourg, you’ll soon notice that lunch is a real thing. Basically everywhere in Alsace. I felt like lunch was an urgent need that must be fulfilled in any shape or form. Life grinds to hold after 12 p.m. and you hear the tingling of cutlery everywhere.

Most smaller shops close between 12 and 2 pm and some attractions close during lunchtime too.

So, do as the locals do. Try to find a spot to sit down and have an Alsatian lunch.

Make sure to do it on time, because most places close again after 2 pm (or 3 pm) and are jam-packed by 1 pm! A lot of the places around the cathedral offer food around the clock, but these are usually packed (and probably more expensive and tourist-orientated).

Find a side street or nice terrasse that has a spot for you and check the menu. Always make sure to ask for the menu of the day, usually a starter and main or main and dessert for very affordable prices.

Another option is to ask for the specialty of the day, usually a few local dishes, often in Alsace-style. Basically, you can’t go wrong with this, but you can always order off the menu of course.

I didn’t research my lunch option, so I just stumbled on a place and ordered the Tarte flamblée. The perfect easy lunch option, and also highly affordable!

Petite France area and Vauban Dam

After lunch, I just roamed around Strasbourg. I walked across some of the bridges, explored the wood-timbered houses along the channel, and found myself at the Vauban Dam and the covered bridges.

The historic center of Strasbourg (and the focus of your day in the city) is like an island, surrounded by water. In the west of the inner city, you’ll find some waterways coming together with several water locks regulating the water.

You can visit ‘Barrage Vauban’, the stone military dam built by architect Vauban in 1690. One of the main features is the terrace which offers you a panoramic view of the dam on both sides. Most attractive is the side where you can overlook the covered bridges and the city.

Covered Bridges

I returned to ground level to explore the covered bridges of Strasbourg. The bridge and her 4 towers are also part of the historic 14th-century defense works of the city.

The towers overlook the water and the bridge. It is still called the covered bridges, although the roofs have not been reinstalled after they were lost in the 18th century.

View of the covered bridges and the defense towers of Strasbourg.

Petite France district in Strasbourg

If you’re looking for cute, picturesque, insta-fabulous views, then this is the place to be. The district once was home to tanners and fishermen who needed the water for their trades.

The houses are built level with the waterways and show some of the best wood-timbered houses of the Alsace region. Here you’ll find plenty of bridges, flower-covered window sills, wooden doors, tiny shops, and gourmet restaurants.

There is no point or direction needed in the Petite France district of Strasbourg. Just roam around, get lost, backtrack your steps, or follow the main crowds. Sit by the water to enjoy the view, take selfie pictures on one of the many bridges, or shop for local hand-made souvenirs.

Batorama Boat Tour Strasbourg

I can imagine you’re getting a bit tired by now. Whenever you visit a city for one day, you want to make the most of it and probably walk more than usual. I know I sure did!

I thought the Batorama boat tour would be an excellent way to see more of the city, without walking the extra miles. You can reserve a spot for the Batorama Boat ride online or at the local tourist office (next to the cathedral). From there, it is a short walk to the quay where the boats leave.

The Strasbourg Island tour lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes and runs during the whole day. Just pick a time slot that works for you and show up on time.

They offer glass-domed boats and open boats, so you can choose. On the boat, you’ll get a set of headphones and the commentary is in 14 languages so the information is easy to follow.

I thought the boat tour was refreshing. Seeing the city from below the waterways gave a new perspective. You pass different water locks, which is always an exciting feature.

As you glide through the water, you’ll learn about the turbulent history of the region and Strasbourg as you admire grand buildings and see the city from a different perspective.

Optional: visit the European Parliament

The Batorama boat goes all the way to the European Parliament. This is located a few tram stops from the center of Strasbourg. So if you intend to visit, this is a perfect opportunity!

If you’re interested in the European Union and the European Parliament, this is an excellent way to see and learn more. You can visit the Parliament on a self-guided tour. You can roam the halls, sit at the main debating chamber and learn about the formation, rules, and laws at the interactive Parlamentarium Simone Veil.

A visit to the European Parliament is free of charge and lasts about 1-2 hours. You can visit Monday to Saturday (closed on Sunday).

Find more information about visiting the European Parliament in Strasbourg here .

Batorama boat stop

The Batorama boat stops at the parliament. This saves you the hassle of walking there, taking a cab, or figuring out the public transport system. Unfortunately, it doesn’t offer the option to return on a later boat.

Return by tram

Once you’ve visited the Strasbourg European Parliament, you need to return to the center of the city. You can buy a one-way tram ticket for tram E and return in a few stops to the main center of Strasbourg.

Shopping in Strasbourg

Probably, you already browsed some shops while walking around the city, but I was amazed at the fun, quirky and specific stores Strasbourg has to offer.

As most shops are open till the end of the afternoon, it is a great way to kill some time before dinner.

From large main department stores and international chain stores to small boutiques with hand-made clothes, bags, and accessories. I had fun browsing the Strasbourg Christmas store, trying on hats at a ‘chapellerie’ (hat store), and browsing for Alsatian souvenirs.

Gastronomic dinner in Strasbourg

Girls gotta eat so why not make it a special event? Strasbourg has several Michelin-star and gourmet-recommended restaurants that are open for lunch and dinner.

Restaurant Utopie caught my eye and I decided to make dinner reservations with them. They offer a seasonal set 6-course surprise menu and it was the best meal and dinner experience of my life!

Unfortunately, the success of Utopie forced them out of the city of Strasbourg. They have now opened a new restaurant in Gueberschwihr, which I’m excited to try on a new visit.

Of course, now that Utopie is no longer available in Strasbourg, you can settle at any of the hundreds of restaurants in Strasbourg. I recommend either booking ahead before you arrive or browsing some of the restaurants during lunch and enquiring about a table for the evening.

One of the surprising delicious dishes at Utopie

Money-saving tips for 1 day in Strasbourg

I don’t know about you, but when I visit a new city in one day, I always spend way more money than on a longer visit.

Obviously, when you have more time, you can space entrance fees out and don’t cram as much in one day.

So what are some money-saving tips for your visit to Strasbourg?

Free things to do in Strasbourg

In the above one-day itinerary for Strasbourg, I blended paid and free options to see the city. A visit to the market can be fun, enriching and is free (if you don’t buy anything!).

Also, a visit to the Strasbourg Cathedral is free of charge (you pay a fee to see the Astrological clock or visit the viewing platform).

At the time of my visit, the museums in Strasbourg were also free of charge. Check if they have days without entrance fees when you visit Strasbourg!

Almost all churches and parks in Strasbourg, as well as the European Parliament, are free too!

Pass Alsace or Strasbourg Pass

There are several discount cards and tourist passes for the region and Strasbourg city that can save you a lot of money!

Pass’Alsace tourist card for the region

Certain activities in the Alsace region and Strasbourg are free of charge with the Pass Alsace. This card offers you the following free options in Strasbourg

Batorama Boat tour, save €9 on a boat ride
Visit three of the 9 museums in Strasbourg for free (the average entrance fee is €6,50)
Le Vaisseau science museum (save €7)
One City Tours in Strasbourg (bike renting + geocaching (save €15)

The Alsace Pass comes in 24-hour, 48-hour, 3-day, and 5-day options. Ranging from €25 to €60. This pass can save you some serious money if your one day in Strasbourg is part of a longer visit to Alsace.

Strasbourg Petite France district can be explored for free!

Strasbourg Pass

The city of Strasbourg also has its own pass that offers free visits and reduced prices for numerous attractions in Strasbourg. Especially useful if you’re not staying in Alsace but only visit Strasbourg for one day.

Visit one museum for free (€6,50)
Take a Batorama Boat tour (save €14)
See the Astronomical Clock at the Cathedral (€3)

The card is €22 for adults, so if you do the above-mentioned 3 things, you already save money. On top of that, the Strasbourg Pass offers the following discounts:

Viewing platform of the cathedral for half price (save €4)
Visit a second museum for half price (save €3,50)
Take a trip on the tourist train for half price (save €3,50)

And many other half-price or reduced-price options to save money. As the Strasbourg Pass is valid for 3 days, you’ll get your money’s worth from it.

Buy your Strasbourg pass here!

More than 1 day in Strasbourg France

If you decide that one day is not enough to see Strasbourg, I can totally agree with that. I’d love to go back and explore more.

If you need a place to stay overnight in Strasbourg, book your hotel in advance. You can find the best Strasbourg hotels here .

Strasbourg in one day

Whether you have a lot of time or a little, I hope I was able to show you that Strasbourg is worth at least one day of your itinerary.

In one day, you can see the highlights of the city, snap a bunch of super cute images and have a great lunch and/or dinner in Alsace style.

Let me know if you have any questions or comments. Just drop them in the comment section below, I’d love to hear from you.

What to do when you have one day in Strasbourg, France? Follow my 1-day itinerary for Strasbourg and explore the highlights of the city

Author: Naomi

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Beautiful private day trip from Paris to Strasbourg with our friendly local drivers and comfortable transport. There are different options for sightseeing places to choose from when traveling from Paris to Strasbourg. In the base price we have included direct private transfer from Paris to Strasbourg and back, but optionally you can add also stops on the way with most popular places to visit that we have suggested. Other options are possible when contacting us.

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A Magical Trip from Paris: The Strasbourg Christmas Market (2024)

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Are you planning to take a day trip from Paris to the famous Christmas Market in Strasbourg? Then this guide is undoubtedly what you need.

I made this journey a couple of times already, and I’m here to share all the essential details to help you organize this enchanting trip.

My last trip from Paris to Strasbourg was at the end of November 2023, so the information in this post is as fresh as it gets.

You’ll know about the train ride and where to buy tickets, what to do in Strasbourg and what not to miss.

And of course: Which regional specialties you absolutely need to try in Strasbourg and where you can find them. Feel free to simply copy my trip.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

Christmas decorated houses in Strasbourg

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A day trip to Strasbourg from Paris is the best side trip you can take if you are in Paris during Christmas time . The city in the French Alsace region is famed for its magical Christmas vibes, complete with mulled wine, Christmas carols, and gingerbread.

Strasbourg at Christmas is a fairytale. The medieval town is covered with timbered houses and cobbled stone alleys. You stumble upon little Christmas markets all over town and the Christmas decorations are simply stunning.

They take Christmas seriously there, and you find decorations on almost every house and shop.

The Christmas Market in Strasbourg

If you are visiting Paris during the month of December and you are keen to see a real Christmas market, then definitely consider taking a day trip from Paris to Strasbourg. It is known that you find the best Christmas markets in Europe , but Strasbourg is the quintessence, it’s THE capital of Christmas! (it is, you can find this slogan all over town)

Expect everything: mulled wine, millions of lights and candles, a 30 m tall Christmas tree, hot chocolate and Christmas carols. Shows and concerts, gingerbread, more mulled wine, candies, pretzels, Christmas decorations, traditional food from Alsace, and if you are very lucky, you might even get some snow.

visit Europe's oldest Christmas Market in Strasbourg as a day trip from Paris!

As you can imagine, the Christkindelsmärik in Strasbourg is not a random European market that you would find in any other city. It’s moreover one of the most scenic and beautiful, and also the oldest Christmas market in Europe, and a remarkable day trip if you spend Christmas in Paris . It’s been held since the year 1570 and follows, therefore, a 450-year-old tradition.

Today, it attracts well over 2 million annual visitors!

The Christmas market and its 300 chalets are set around the Cathedral of Strasbourg and on 12 other sites within the city center . Yes, it’s basically all over town! It’s the capital of Christmas, after all!

Don’t miss our post about the best weekend trips from Paris by train , if you are in for a longer getaway!

Where is Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the capital of the French region Alsace , which is for a few years part of the region Grand Est. But as this is purely administrative, we can still refer to re region as Alsace.

It is a very distinct French region in the east of the country, which is very different from the rest of France. It is known for a plethora of timbered houses, cobblestones and a medieval flair, that you find in most of the beautiful villages in Alsace .

The Alsace region even has its language, on top of being broadly bilingual in French/German thanks to the strong ties to bordering Germany.

How to Get to Strasbourg from Paris

Strasbourg lies around 500 km east of Paris, but despite the distance, the trip takes less than 2 hours by high-speed train TGV. I

If you plan a day trip, taking the train from Paris to Strasbourg is your only really viable option. Everything else would take far too long. The distance is too big for a one-day trip to Strasbourg by car, and you’re in trouble if it’s snowing.

My trip to the Christmas Market in Strasbourg Step by Step

In 2023, my husband and I decided to take yet another day trip from Paris to Strasbourg. (After I felt miserable on our trip in 2022 and realized a few days later, that I actually caught the evil C virus).

Anyway, we like to get out of Paris occasionally and as it’s so easy to travel by train in France, we never run out of lovely destinations.

So, Strasbourg in November again. I will tell you now exactly what we did in Strasbourg and how we organized our getaway. You are welcome to simply copy our trip because we really had a good time.

Day trip to Strasbourg in a Nutshell

Strasbourg lies 500 km east of Paris, it’s 2h by train.

Buy your train ticket: reserve your ticket here with omio

What to eat : Alsace is famous for Cabbage, duck liver, Flammkueche, and sweet wine

Where to eat : We ate at Gurtlerhoft . Traditional food, delicious and good service

What to do in Strasbourg : we visited the Christmas Markets, did some shopping, went to the History Museum of Strasbourg , and enjoyed the city with some hot mulled wine

How to get from Paris to Strasbourg

Even though you could travel to Strasbourg by car or even by plane, I wouldn’t advise those options. Apart from the ecological factor, it’s just not convenient.

It’s best to travel from Paris to Strasbourg by train. In fact, it is an easy day trip from Paris by train . Thanks to the French high-speed train TGV it takes less than 2 hours from Paris to Strasbourg.

The train station in Strasbourg is just a few minutes away from the Christmas Markets.

Alsace Christmas Ornaments on the Christmas Market in Strasbourg

Where to buy train tickets to Strasbourg?

Save time & money: You can buy your ticket here in advance. The site is in English and provides you with a mobile ticket. It’s pretty much straightforward.

When we first planned to visit Strasbourg, I quickly discarded the idea when I saw the ticket prices. Well, I just did the common mistake and checked for a ticket for the coming weekend. However, when I came back a bit later and looked for a date a few weeks ahead, the tickets were suddenly only a third of the initial price.

So, if you are a tad flexible, it certainly is worth it to compare dates. The cheapest date is usually Tuesday, by the way.

Anyway, I recommend you buy your tickets in advance to save time and money . However, you can also purchase your train ticket to Strasbourg at the train station. The ticket office of SNCF (the French train company) is located in Hall Alsace on the first floor. You can also purchase your ticket at the yellow or white ticket vending machines that you find all over the station.

Gare de l'est: Here your train leaves direction Strasbourg

Taking the Train to Strasbourg: Gare de l’Est

You get to the station Gare de l’Est by Metro Line 4, 5, and 7, or by RER E. Gare de l’Est is also serviced by the Transilien P suburb train that connects communes in the southeast to Paris. Don’t miss our guide about how to use the Parisian Metro to get more information on how to ride the Paris Metro like a pro!

How to find your train at Gare de l’Est?

Firstly, this is really nothing you need to worry about. The train station, Gare de l’Est is very straightforward, and you simply can’t go wrong.

Gare de l’Est has 30 platforms, and platforms 2-12 and 23 -30 are used by main train lines. For example, the high-speed train TGV. Aim to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time at the train station, just in case.

About 15 minutes before your train leaves, the platform of your train will be indicated on overhead screens. 5 minutes before departure, the gates are closing, and they won’t let you in anymore.

And just to stress it out again in case you overread it the first time: arrive 30 minutes before your train is scheduled.

5 Best Things to do in Strasbourg

If you visit Strasbourg, the Capitale de Noël , you are probably interested in visiting the markets and drinking sweet mulled wine, aren’t you? But there’s more to do in Strasbourg. Here’s a list of things we did and a few more.

#1 Visit the Christmas Market : The Christkindelsmärik

Christkindelsmärik means “Market of the Christ child” in the Alsatian dialect.

The main reason is, of course, the Christmas Markets. You find them literally all over the center of Strasbourg. Every bigger square has a few chalets, but the biggest Christmas Markets are in front of the Cathedral and the town hall. It’s here where you find the big Christmas tree as well.

If you want more details, refer to the map here of the 2023 Christmas Market in Strasbourg. But honestly, by just walking around, you will probably see them all anyway.

#2 History Museum of Strasbourg

Strasbourg has a few interesting museums, but due to convenience, we visited the museum about the history of Strasbourg . Maybe you didn’t know, but Strasbourg was the town where Gutenberg invented book printing and also an important crossroad for trade.

Not at least because in town stood the last bridge over the river Rhine before the North Sea. You see, I picked up some facts up in the museum. (Perhaps because my husband is one of these people who read every display and so do I, to not get bored)

#3 Visit the Cathedral of Strasbourg

The Cathedral is one of the main sights of Strasbourg and something you can impossibly miss. It’s free to visit and very much worth it. The inside of the cathedral is rather sparse, without many statues and other religious objects you might expect.

But the stained-glass windows are spectacular. To my surprise, they also had a lot of tapestry in the cathedral, hanging from the ceiling. I have been to plenty of churches and cathedrals, but that’s something I have never seen before.

The highlight is the astrological clock, though. A massive clock that shows the orbit of the earth, moon, and planets from Mercury to Saturn.

#4 Stroll through “Petit France”

The center of Strasbourg lies on an Island on the river Ill. Here you find as well the old town called “Petit France”. The quaint quarter is traversed by canals, timbered houses and cobblestones and dates back to the 16th century .

In the middle age, it was the district of fishermen and tanner, today it’s one of the most popular and beautiful quarters in Strasbourg.

The Christmas Market in Petit France was the one that I liked the most. The beautiful houses and the lights added up to a very romantic flair.

#5 Enjoy Traditional Food from the Alsace Region

Like every French region, Strasbourg has as well a very strong culinary identity. Hence, when in Alsace, you simply have to try Choucroute, Flammkueche, and Spätzle.

However, I am biased here. With my German origins, I obviously think the real Sauerkrat (Chouchroute) is the one, my mother cooks. While my French husband believes that the French version is how it’s supposed to be prepared.

Either way, the Sauerkraut in Strasbourg was good, I have to admit. And so was the Flammkueche with Munster cheese.

If you are looking for a good restaurant to try traditional cuisine from Alsace, I can recommend the restaurant Gurtlerhoft . We enjoyed the food and the staff was fast and friendly. You need to reserve, though, it was booked out.

Is it safe to visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market in 2023

If you ask yourself this question, you are probably referring to the terrible terrorist attack that happened at the Christmas Market in Strasbourg in 2018.

I would love to say: “yes, of course, don’t worry.” But that’s not the time we’re living in. All I can say is that I felt very safe in Strasbourg. Access to the center was regulated, cars were not allowed, I saw cops patrolling and everything seemed very calm and under control.

But maybe see it this way : if you are considering taking a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris, you already did a risk assessment for Paris, perhaps visited Christmas markets in Paris already, and considered it all safe enough.

And you can be sure, Strasbourg is absolutely not less safe than Paris. Already because they follow the same governmental safety regulations.

Voilà, now you know everything to plan your day trip to Strasbourg. You’ll see, it’s a really lovely getaway from Paris by train . Enjoy!

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The Christmas market takes place from the 25th of November until the 24th of December.

The distance between Strasbourg and Paris is roughly 500km, 310 miles . But don’t worry, the TGV (high-speed train) takes less than 2h!

It’s a short walk of 10 minutes.

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Château Chenonceau as seen from across the garden with pink flowers in the foreground. Château Chenonceau is one of the best day trips from paris france

17 Best Day Trips from Paris, France (+ How to Get There!)

Small villages lined with half-timbered houses, stunning châteaus, and charming cities: no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for, the best day trips from Paris include an option that’s right for you!

We asked several other travel writers to share their favorite Paris day trips with us, and with their help, have compiled this sweeping guide that includes a huge variety of day tours from Paris.

As difficult as it can be to tear yourself away from the capital (we always have an incredibly difficult time doing so), it’s worth it to add a bit of variety to your trip to France with one of these day trips from Paris!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Paris Day Trip Guide

Best paris day trips reachable in under 1 hour, fun day trips from paris less than 2 hours away, epic day trips 2+ hours from paris.

Young woman facing away from the camera holding a wine glass in a French vineyard. Wine tours make for excellent Paris day trips

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We’ve structured this guide to the best Paris day trips by distance from the capital, as calculated based on how long it (reasonably) takes to get to the destination.

Most of these are doable as day trips from Paris by train, with a few requiring a car or bus to reach.

Many of them are also enhanced or made easier by booking a tour, and when applicable, we’ve listed a well-reviewed tour option along with information on how to get there.

If you plan on renting a car, we recommend renting it only for your day trip–there’s no reason to keep a car rented on days that you’re exploring Paris itself–and shopping through Discover Cars, which will help you find the best prices and inclusions on rental cars during your trip!

Shop rental cars for your day trips from Paris today!

Without a doubt, Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris–and for a very good reason!

As the former seat of the French court, Versailles is (and always has been) known for its utter opulence, from the splendor of the Palace of Versailles with its famous Hall of Mirrors to its incredible gardens.

In addition to the main palace and gardens, Versailles offers plenty of other corners to explore too, including other palaces (Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon), and the Queen’s Hamlet, where Marie Antoinette once kept a small farm.

In addition to the estate itself, there’s also the actual town of Versailles, which is charming and worth exploring if you have time during your visit!

How to Get to Versailles

Versailles is about 40 minutes from central Paris via the RER C, and is easy to reach independently. You’ll want to get off at the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, and from there, the palace is about a 10-minute walk away.

However, a tour is incredibly helpful for gaining context while visiting the sprawling estate of Versailles– this one is very popular and also allows you to visit the estate with fewer crowds!

Book your tour of Versailles today!

Visiting Versailles: Exterior of the Palace

Château de Fontainebleau

From Erica of Travels With Erica

Château de Fontainebleau is the perfect alternative to Versailles. It is just as grand and full of history as Versailles, but it is far less visited, and therefore is a more relaxing day trip from Paris. If you visit during off-peak times, you’ll feel like you have the entire palace to yourself!

Château de Fontainebleau was the French royalty’s summer palace and where they went to get away from city life in Paris. The palace was used by Louis VII all the way to Napoleon III who actually abdicated while in the palace.

Not only does Château de Fontainebleau have all a stunning ballroom, throne room, and bedrooms, but it is also home to an extensive art museum, Chinese museum, and chapel.

You need to dedicate at least a couple of hours to exploring the grounds as well! There are three formal gardens that feature French, Italian, and English designs. One garden features a pond and another a canal, and these are the best places to get Instagram-worthy photographs of Château de Fontainebleau.

How to Get to Château de Fontainebleau

It is super easy to travel from Paris to Château de Fontainebleau . You simply catch a train departing from Gare de Lyon and get off at Fontainebleau-Avon. Trains depart once per hour, and the journey is about 40 minutes!

Once you get off the train, you get on a city bus until you reach the palace. Buses are waiting at the train station, and the stops are announced in English, so you’ll easily be able to know when it is time to get off the bus!

Exterior of Château de Fontainebleau as seen from the front, one of the best day trips from Paris France

Disneyland Paris (Euro Disney)

From Karen of Travel Mad Mum

How to Get to Disneyland Paris

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If you are looking for an easy day trip from Paris, Chantilly is the place to go.

In Chantilly, there’s the famous Château de Chantilly which is one of the best castles to visit near Paris . Unlike the Palace of Versailles or Château de Fontainebleau, Chantilly is not a royal castle but it has a very picturesque setting, surrounded by a lake and French-style gardens.

Château de Chantilly is also famous for its beautiful library and the collection of French paintings, only second to the collection in the Louvre Museum.

But most of all, Chantilly is famous for its chic horse races, the French counterpart of the famous horse races of Ascot in the UK. When there’s no race, visitors can explore the Horse Museum, hosted in the Great Stables of Chantilly.

The Great Stables also host a prestigious center of classical dressage training for the most expensive horses in the world and a big hall covered by a magnificent dome used for dressage shows.

How to Get to Chantilly

Direct trains from Gare du Nord leave hourly to Chantilly and the train journey only takes 25 minutes (one way).

Exterior of Chateau de Chantilly as seen from across the pond, one of the best paris day trips

From Megan of MeganStarr.com

To the east of Paris sits the charming city of Reims, the Champagne region’s de facto capital and one of the best options for a day trip from Paris. Historically, Reims played an essential role in French history, and the imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims was the site of royal coronations.

Much of the city suffered damage during World War 1 and 2, but while efforts to restore many of the buildings have been successful, sadly, some of the Roman-era structures suffered irreversible damage. There are stunning examples of Art Deco architecture throughout the city that was the preferred style when Reims was being rebuilt.

Today, the city is famed for Champagne, with many of the world’s most renowned brands being based within the city or a short distance away. A visit to the Lanson champagne house is a must as it is the only house with a vineyard within the city.

Alternatively, there are plenty of fantastic champagne tours that depart from Reims Central Station, or you can simply take a Champagne day trip from Paris instead.

Like much of France, Reims has rich culinary traditions and is believed to be the biscuit’s birthplace. Biscuit Rose de Reims pairs excellently with a glass of Champagne.

How to Get to Reims

Reaching Reims from Paris is relatively easy, with regular trains running between the two and taking only 50 minutes.

However, not all trains arrive at the Central Station as some stop at Champagne Ardenne TGV stop on the outskirts of Reims. From there, a local tram service connects the station to central Reims.

Prefer to focus solely on champagne during your escape from the city? This luxurious champagne tour makes for an unforgettable Paris day trip!

Young woman in a black tank top and sunglasses standing in front of the Reims cathedral

Home to the stunning gardens that inspired the impressionist paintings of Claude Monet, Giverny is one of the most popular Paris day trips and a fantastic way to feel worlds away from the bustling capital–without actually traveling far at all.

While in Giverny, be sure to tour the picturesque gardens, as well as pay a visit to Monet’s home (it doesn’t take long to visit), and the Museum of Impressionism.

If you’d like to explore further, consider visiting Monet’s tomb, and grabbing a coffee at Hôtel Baudy, which was a popular artist’s salon in Monet’s day.

How to Get to Giverny

Reaching Giverny from Paris is fairly simple, but it does take two steps: first, take a train from Gare-Saint-Lazare to Vernon. In Vernon, you’ll then take a short taxi or bus ride to the gardens–the bus route is extremely well marked due to its popularity with tourists.

Overall, the journey averages a little over an hour.

Prefer not to worry about logistics? This popular tour of Giverny from Paris is the perfect option!

Water gardens of Giverny with green bridge visible in the center back. Giverny is one of the most fun day trips from Paris France

The star attraction in Chartres is its magnificent Cathedral, which is considered to be the high point of French Gothic architecture. In 1979, it became one of the very first sites in France to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which shows just how important it is to French history, art and architecture.

Most of what you see in the Cathedral today dates from the 12th and 13th centuries. And considering that it’s more than 800 years old, its state of preservation is quite remarkable.

Chartres Cathedral is most famous for its stained glass windows and its delicate sculptures. In total, there are more than 160 stained glass windows in the Cathedral. It’s the most complete group of stained glass windows to have survived from the Middle Ages.

The sculptures, on the other hand, were created over a much longer time frame, ranging from the 12th to the 18th century. While the sculptures on the façade were part of the original Gothic construction, the ones decorated the choir screen inside are much newer.

Even though the Cathedral is the main reason to come to Chartres, it’s also worth strolling through the town while you’re here. The streets are lined with half-timbered houses with colorful flowers in the windows. You’ll find a few restaurants serving traditional French food, and for vegans and vegetarians visiting from Paris , your best option is probably Le Pailin, a Thai restaurant.

How to Get to Chartres

Small canal in Chartres France with half-timbered houses lining one side. Chartres is a fun Paris day trip destination

From Bridget of The Flashpacker

Visit under-the-radar Lille for a taste of French Flanders, both literally and figuratively. And situated only 137 miles north of Paris, close to the Belgian border, the city is an easy day trip from the capital.

As its historic center is compact, it is easy to explore Lille on a self-guided walking tour . Start by wandering through its cobblestoned squares flanked by extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings. Visit the book market at La Veille Bourse, a collection of small houses arranged around an exquisite porticoed courtyard, which was formerly the city’s stock exchange.

Stop by the Notre Dame de la Treille, Lille’s spiritual beating heart, a dizzying fusion of Gothic and contemporary architecture. Contrast this with L’Église Saint Etienne, one of France’s largest Jesuit churches, is the embodiment of simplicity.

Nurture your inner art aficionado by visiting the Palais des Beaux-Arts, Lille’s fine art gallery, second only to Paris’s Louvre in size and stature.

Finally, don’t leave town before sampling Lille’s hearty Flemish food and merveilleux. These little clouds of heaven are made of light meringue, liberally smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

How to Get to Lille

To get to Lille from Paris in a little over one hour, take a TGV from Gare du Nord.

By car, it’s a two-hour drive straight up the A1(note that this route has tolls).

vieux lille as seen from above with a fountain in the foreground

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Metz is a great day trip from Paris. The city is full of historic surprises, so it can be hard to choose what to see in Metz with only a day.

The main attraction that you absolutely can’t miss is Metz Cathedral, one of the tallest in Europe with its 42 meters, it towers elegantly over the city. The Gothic and Renaissance building is not only majestic on the outside, enter and you’ll get blinded by the light flowing through the numerous stained glass windows. There is no questioning why the cathedral has been nicknamed the Lantern of God.

After having lunch in the historic center, head to Île du Petit-Saulcy, an island in the middle of the Moselle River, connected by stone bridges. Here you’ll see the astounding Temple Neuf as well as the oldest functioning opera house in the country, Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole.

Other points of interest include the Basilica of Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains and Porte des Allemands. There is no doubt it’s worth going to Metz for a day to dive into the medieval times.

How to Get to Metz

The best way to reach Metz is from Paris’ Gare de l’Est station by high-speed train. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

13th century medieval gate in metz france

Somme Battlefields

From Paul of Anywhere We Roam

Explore a landscape that still wears the scars of the First World War on a day trip to the Somme Battlefields. The trenches, where an estimated 3 million soldiers fought across a front just 45 kilometers long, undulate across vibrant green fields; an artificial beauty that defies the horrors that once took place.

Visit the Commonwealth Memorial, a moving tribute to the 72,000 British and South African soldiers who died or went missing during the war and have no named grave. The Newfoundland Memorial Park is a moving experience with the trenches still clearly visible in the landscape. The Museum of the Great War is an informative look at the social context surrounding the war in a thoughtful and well-constructed presentation.

After remembering the impacts of war, enjoy the leisurely side of the area. The Somme Bay is a large estuary where 6 rivers drain into the English Channel. Get adventurous and try land-sailing on the 20 kilometer stretch of sand dunes.

Take a guided hike on the cliffs between Ault and Mers-Les-Bains to enjoy breath-taking scenic views.

Visit the fairytale Rambures Castle, or just unwind on many of the cycle paths that intersect the bay.

How to Get to the Somme Battlefields

While it’s possible to get the train from Paris to Amiens (1 hour, 10 minutes) to explore the battlefields, many of the sites are spread out and require a car. A hire car can be arranged in Amiens, or Somme is just a 2-hour drive from Paris.

For valuable context and a well-organized day without stress, this Somme Battlefields day tour from Paris is the perfect option.

WWI Battlefield memorial with a large structure in the background and crosses in the foreground

Château de Chambord

From Norbert of France Bucket List

Château de Chambord is one of the best castles of the Loire Valley and it is also the most impressive. Château de Chambord is located 175 km south of Paris, in the French region of Centre-Val-de-Loire, and it is relatively easy to visit on a day trip from the French capital.

In Chambord, there is a castle since medieval times. The current castle, however, was built in Renaissance style commissioned by the French King François I for his hunting getaways from Paris. For the King, this château was a place to relax and have fun with his court but also a demonstration of his political and cultural power.

It is said that Leonardo da Vinci was involved in the construction of Château de Chambord and most probably, he is the author of the amazing central double-spiral staircase. King François was Leonardo da Vinci’s patron and the Italian artist lived the last years of his life not far from Chambord, in Amboise.

Château de Chambord is surrounded by beautiful French-style Gardens and a vast forest where the king liked to hunt. The château is located in the heart of the biggest closed forest in Europe (around 50 km2 surrounded by a 32-km wall).

How to Get to Château de Chambord

The best way to visit Château de Chambord from Paris is with your own car, the drive to Chambord is less than two hours. Also, you can take the train to Blois and at Blois train station there’s a shuttle bus to Chambord.

Prefer not to worry about the hassle of transportation? This well-reviewed day trip from Paris includes a visit to 3 stunning châteaus, including Château de Chambord!

Château de Chambord as seen from a distance with a pond in the foreground that has 2 swans on it

From Henry of This Life of Travel

Rouen is a historical, architectural, and cultural gem that easily ranks among the best day trips from Paris. You’ve probably heard of Joan of Arc and Richard the Lionheart but did you know they were from Rouen?

The city itself is also full of architectural masterpieces like the Rouen Cathedral which was once one of the tallest buildings in the world! It’s free to visit and is also the resting place of Richard the Lionheart.

Once you’re done visiting the cathedral, make sure to have some Kir Norman which is alcoholic apple cider and a local specialty.

After that make sure to check out the magnificent Gros Horloge astronomical clock set on one of Rouen’s main shopping streets.

Be sure to also walk through the medieval center for a stroll back in time with its crooked, wood-framed houses. Then, learn more about the Joan of Arc at the Joan of Arc Tower and History Museum.

How to Get to Rouen

The easiest way to get to Rouen from Paris is by train, which takes about an hour and a half.

Rouen astrological clock in the early morning hours. Rouen is one of the best day trips from Paris France

From Stuart of Go Eat Do

Arras, 177km north-east of Paris, is an attractive city whose historic town hall was dedicated as a national monument in 1921, and the city makes for a fabulous Paris day trip option.

Originally built in the early 16th century, the Hôtel de Ville dominates the Place des Héros, one of the cobbled squares in the center of the city. The building was damaged during World War One and subsequently reconstructed. An elevator was added to the tower, whose compact observation platform offers fine views over the region. In 2005 the belfry was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Military history aficionados are likely to appreciate touring the tunnels of the Carrière Wellington. Prior to 1917’s Battle of Arras, Allied miners dug corridors through chalk leading to German lines. The entrances were blown at the battle’s start. Graffiti and other remnants convey what it was like for troops as they awaited the call to battle.

Similarly, the Citadel of Arras is an impressive example of late-17th century military architecture. Designed by Vauban, the historic attraction is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its grounds were used to execute members of the Resistance during World War Two.

During Advent, the Grand Place hosts Arras Christmas Market , a family-friendly event with gourmet food stalls and huts selling seasonal gifts.

How to Get to Arras

The TGV high-speed train takes an hour to cover the distance between the Gare du Nord in Paris and Arras’s railway station.

The journey takes just under 2 hours in total with a change at Lille Flanders.

Arras France town hall as seen across an empty square. Arras is one of the best day tours from Paris France

Château Chenonceau

From Monique of Trip Anthropologist

An easy day trip from Paris, Château de Chenonceau is perhaps the most beautiful chateau in all of France (and that’s a big call!).

The Château is the most visited French castle after Versailles. It’s easy to see why – a walk from the entrance gate takes you through the beautiful Loire Forest (once the hunting grounds of the French Kings), and brings you to the River Cher, just outside the village of Chenonceau.

Spanning the river is the Château Chenonceau. As you explore the castle, from its kitchens to the bedrooms of kings and queens, you will cross the river as you walk along the galley on the second floor of the Château.

The formal gardens surrounding the Château are smaller than some of France’s grand castles, but they are just as beautiful and more interesting: they are rival gardens, designed by Catherine de Medici, the wife of King Henri II, and Diane de Poitiers, his mistress.

How to Get to Château Chenonceau

The easiest way to get to Château Chenonceau from Paris is to drive – it’s a simple drive along the A10 before taking Exit 18 towards Amboise. It’s 214 km and takes just over two hours.

Visiting by train is also a fairly simple affair – trains regularly leave Montparnasse for St Pierre des Corps. It’s a one hour trip and then you change for the 25-30 minute trip to Chenonceau. The Château is a 10-minute taxi ride (or 500 m walk) from the village of Chenonceau.

Prefer not to worry about the hassle of transportation? This well-reviewed day trip from Paris includes a visit to 3 stunning châteaus, including Château Chenonceau!

Château Chenonceau as seen from the side at sunset with water in the foreground. This chateau is one of the best day trips from Paris France!

From Ella of Many More Maps

Although there’s enough to see in London to keep you entertained for a lifetime, why not dip your toes into the water by visiting London as a day trip from Paris?

It’s hard to narrow down what to do in London in just one day, but it’s best to try and tick off all the classic tourist stops first – the Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. Luckily, these amazing attractions are all near each other, so you can walk between them.

Snap the classic tourist photos and explore these iconic landmarks before moving on to one of the city’s many fascinating museums. The National Gallery, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum are all hugely popular, and for good reason!

Finally, be sure to make a reservation to enjoy a classic British tradition – the afternoon tea. For an experience as delicious as it gets (with a price tag to match!) afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason or the Ritz is a real bucket list experience. If you’re looking for an afternoon tea with a twist, check out the Harry Potter themed afternoon tea at Cutter & Squidge!

How to Get to London

London is surprisingly easy to reach from Paris and is just 2hrs 30minutes on the Eurostar from Paris’ Gare du Nord train station.

Big Ben and Parliament as seen from across the river. London is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

If you’re looking to go for a day trip from Paris, Luxembourg is one of the best destinations to visit. The charming city is located in Western Europe, bordered by Germany, Belgium, and France. I

t’s an ideal short day trip goal to spend around 8-9 hours in the town. Precisely, you can return to Paris by evening if you leave for Luxembourg in the early morning.

Luxembourg is worth visiting as the city presents a fascinating combination of modern museums, ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. It’s indeed famous for offering award-winning wine and traditional foods, besides featuring picturesque multicultural vicinities.

Additionally, there are several things to do on this day trip, including enjoying the culture at the museum of modern art, climbing along the walls of the corniche, touring the bock and the city Casements, encountering fortification of the place, admiring the natural view of the city, and so on!

How to Get to Luxembourg

The best convenient way to reach Luxembourg from Paris is to catch a TGV train, around 10 am from Paris Gare de l’Est station, and it takes about 2.5 hours.

View of Luxembourg City from above. Luxembourg's small size makes it an ideal short European road trip itinerary

From Mark of Wyld Family Travel

Strasbourg is in North East France and the Capital of the Alsace region and is a city with strong influences from both France and Germany having belonged to both countries numerous times in history.

Today most people head to Strasbourg to visit its old town cobbled streets, world-famous cathedral, The Neustadt district, and the picturesque La Petite France district. A boat ride on the canals of Strasbourg will introduce you to the amazing wooden colored old-world houses of Strasbourg and the European Parliament area.

The Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world. Make sure you climb the Cathedral tower for the best view of the city.

During the Christmas period, Strasbourg plays host to one of the most famous and popular Christmas markets in Europe.

Strasbourg and the Alsace are known for its food and wine, make sure you try the regional special called Flammkuchen, it is an Alsace version of pizza. This is best accompanied by a local Gewürztraminer wine. A day trip to Strasbourg is a must from Paris.

How to Get to Strasbourg

Strasbourg is easily reached in 2.5 hours from Paris on the TGV. There are around 19 trains a day running between the two cities.

One Day in Strasbourg Itinerary: Streets of La Petite France

From Christine of Journey to France

Located in the Upper Brittany region in France, this beautiful city is one of the best day trips from Paris that you must include in your itinerary. It is also not as crowded as the other popular French cities so it’s a must if you want to get away from the crowd but also enjoy a full French experience.

There are several things to do in Nantes which include medieval architecture, chateaus, cathedrals, picturesque French gardens, and historical museums. The Quartier Bouffay is a medieval quarter in Nantes known for its amazing architecture, quaint shops, and traditional restaurants. It is also where the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne is located. This beautiful restored 14th-century castle is one of the popular landmarks in the Brittany Region.

How to Get to Nantes

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4 photos of France: chateau, rouen, chartres, metz. Black and pink text on a white background reads "17 magical day trips from paris"

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Best Day Trips from Paris, France (+ How to Get There!)”

Your a full time traveler? Would love to chat with you about Europe!

Depends on how you define it! We were fully nomadic for 4 years, now we bounce around with bases that we tend to spend 1-2 years in each (last stop was Lisbon, right now it’s NYC) and travel from there.

We’re always happy to answer a few questions for fellow travelers! 🙂

21 best doable day trips from Strasbourg, France

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There are a number of amazing day trips from Strasbourg that can be made to destinations in France, Germany, and Switzerland. Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region in France. An exciting city in its own right, bursting with historic half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets, museums, culture, history, and a world-famous Christmas Market, just to name a few.

Paris day trip from Strasbourg

Freiburg im Breisgau

Q5. What is the local cuisine in Strasbourg?

Apartments in strasbourg, how to get to strasbourg by train, parking in strasbourg tip:, why is a visit to strasbourg unmissable.

A city influenced by French and German culture, Strasbourg through the century has belonged to both countries. It is easy to see the legacy left by both countries.

Strasbourg lies in an envious position near the Alsace Wine Route minutes away from the German border and an hour from the Switzerland border.

In this article, you will find 17 of the best day trips from Strasbourg. These Strasbourg day trips include historical sites, theme parks, Chateau, wine routes, waterfalls, and more.

Day trips from Strasbourg France can truly incorporate a diverse number of sites in France, Germany, and Switzerland.

Places to visit around Strasbourg

A visit to Strasbourg is a completely unmissable destination in the Alsace region of France. It is a beautiful place and there are so many places to visit around Strasbourg that will have you in love with the Alsace region in minutes. Below are some of our favourite places to visit around Strasbourg.

Day trips from Strasbourg to Germany – Staufen

Staufen is a small German village just a short trip south of Strasbourg near Freibu r g im Breisgau . The small village is famous for 2 things, the Staufen Castle, which sits in ruin high on a hill overlooking the town and surrounding vineyards which they make world-famous schnapps out of.

Staufen old town with colorful building and statue

Since 1844, the world-famous Schladerer distillery has produced fruit brandies and unique spirits. You can do a tour and taste at the Schladerer Brewery, A cake, and coffee and one of the finest coffee shops in Germany is a must. Cafe Decker makes some of the tastiest cakes anywhere.

How far is Staufen from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Staufen is 105 Kilometres

Colmar day trip from Strasbourg

Exploring Colmar in France’s Alsace region is like jumping into a fairytale. From the period coloured wooden houses, and cobblestone streets to blooming flowers and stalks on roofs, the sort of stuff that inspired stories like Beauty and the Beast.

Colmar is charming, enchanting, and absolutely captivating for all, it’s an assault on the senses both sight and taste.

having coffee in the Little Venice area of Colmar

The Gothic 13th-century, Martin’s Collegiate Church stands on central Place de la Cathédrale . The city is on the Alsace Wine Route, with local vineyards specialising in Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines. A visit to the Little Venice area is a must.

Colmar is home to a large number of museums including the highly reputable fine arts museum. Colmar really comes into its own prior to Christmas, when its world-famous Christmas market opens. The neighbouring village of Ribeauville is also worth a look for its interesting sights on the wine route.

How far is Strasbourg to Colmar?

Strasbourg to Colmar is 73.6 Kilometers

Neuf-Brisach

Neuf-Brisach is a fortified town near Strasbourg in the Grand Est region of France, and you can easily explore it on a day trip.

The town was built in the 17th century by Vauban, the famous military architect of King Louis XIV, and its impressive fortified walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides admiring the fortifications, you can visit the Town Hall, the Church of Saint-Louis, and the Museum of Fortifications.

You can also take a walk through the charming streets and enjoy the views from the ramparts. To make the most of your day trip, consider renting a bike or joining a guided tour.

How far is Neuf-Brisach from Strasbourg

Neuf-Brisach is 87 kilometres from Strasbourg

Luneville in Alsace Lorraine

Luneville is one of those smallish, nondescript French towns until the Château de Luneville comes into view. The grand Château de Lunéville, was built in 1702 for Leopold, Duke of Lorraine. This magnificent building was the residence of the Duke of Lorraine until France annexed the duchy in 1766.

a statue out front of a castle in Luneville France

The château was designed to resemble Versailles for Leopold’s wife, Élisabeth Charlotte d’Orléans, who was the niece of Louis XIV. Leopold and his wife were the parents of Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor (through him, they were the grandparents of Marie Antoinette)

How far is Luniville from Strasbourg?

Luneville is 128 kilometres from Strasbourg.

Places to visit around Strasbourg – Baccarat

Baccarat Crystal is known worldwide for its beauty and quality. Louis XV authorised the creation of glasswork in 1764. The works became crystal glassworks in 1817 and were sold to the Compagnie des Cristalleries in 1881.

The company went from strength to strength, achieving worldwide fame under the name of Baccarat. The Musée Baccarat is a crystal glass museum located in the Baccarat factory. It is located at 2 rue des Cristalleries in Baccarat It showcases around 1,100 objects.

How far is Baccarat from Strasbourg?

Baccarat is 96.9 kilometres from Strasbourg

Learn More: We hope you are enjoying this article on day trips from Strasbourg France. We have two more Strasbourg France articles that will help you plan your trip to Strasbourg. These articles are full of tips and recommendations for your trip Things to do in Strasbourg with teenagers . and One day in Strasbourg

Strasbourg excusions to Frankfurt

One of the top attractions in Frankfurt is the Römerberg, a beautiful historic square in the heart of the old town . Here, you can admire the striking medieval architecture of the Römer, the town hall, and Frankfurt Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style church.

Art lovers won’t want to miss the Städel Museum, which houses a vast collection of European art spanning several centuries, including works by famous artists like Rembrandt, Monet, and Picasso.

For families, a visit to Frankfurt Zoo is a must-do. With over 4,500 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and elephants, there’s plenty to see and learn about.

If you’re looking for stunning views of the city, head to the top of the Main Tower, which offers panoramic views from its observation deck, located 200 meters above the ground.

How far is Frankfurt from Strasbourg?

Frankfurt to Strasbourg is 219 kilometres away.

Écomusée d’Alsace – open air museum

Écomusée d’Alsace is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Alsatian life and architecture, with over 70 historic buildings spread across a 100-acre park. The open-air museum explores farmhouses, workshops, and gardens, and watches demonstrations of traditional crafts like weaving and pottery.

How far is the Écomusée d’Alsace from Strasbourg

The open-air museum is located in Ungersheim, about a 45-minute drive from Strasbourg.

Struthof Concentration camp

Located in the hills about an hour from Strasbourg was Struthof Concentration Camp . Struthof was the only camp ever established in France. Between 1941 and 1944, Alsace was administered by Germany as an integral part of the German Reich.

The camp operated from 21 May 1941 and was evacuated early in September 1944. Some 22,000 people died at the camp. Today you can visit the camp, walk the grounds and view the barracks and buildings. These buildings include a museum and a gas chamber.

Family travel budget tips: 30+ realistic and helpful budget travel for families tips

How far is Struthof from Strasbourg?

Struthof is 50 kilometres from Strasbourg.

Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg

One of the most scenic places to visit around Strasbourg in the nearby hills is Chateau Haut Keonigsbourg . Koenigsbourg château dates back to the Middle Ages and was built by the Hapsburg dynasty.

The current version was built by the German Kaiser in the late 18th century when the land belonged to Germany. Today the Château stands proud overlooking both France and Germany. Self-guided tours of the staterooms and armoury are available.

How far is Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Haut Koenigsbourg is 62 Kilometres

Some Extra Reading: Austrian Royalty and German kaisers called this place home. We can help you plan a visit to Chateau Haut Keonigsbourg,

Destination near Strasbourg – Mont Sainte Odile

Nestled high in the hills of the Vosges mountains in the Alsace region of France is Mont Sainte-Odile . The Monastery was originally built sometime in the early 7th century but has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years. Visit the tomb of St Odile, the Chapel of Tears, and the Chapel of Angels.

The red brick building at the Monastery Mont St Odile

Odile was blind but regained her eyesight after Saint Erhard of Regensburg baptised her, thus bringing her eyesight back. Her father tried to marry her off and Odile escaped into the mountains being chased by her father. A cliff face opened up to protect her and her father then agreed to build her Monastery in this position.

How far is Mont St Odile from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Mont St Odile is 44.3 kilometres.

Castles near Strasbourg – château du haut kœnigsbourg

Everyone knows fairy tale castles are Germany’s thing. You can’t go to an area of this beautiful country and not find one that just blows you away with its structure, never-ending turrets, pure opulence, and colourful history that at times seems unreal. Château du Haut Kœnigsbourg is absolutely no exception.

Castle in Germany sitting on top of a hill

Today many of the 8 you see become surrounded by towns with urban crawl getting closer all the time to these historic buildings.

Not so with Haut Koenigsbourg castle it sits magnificently on top of a hill and looks like it belongs in the sky. Strasbourg to Château du Haut Kœnigsbourg is 123 kilometres.

Looking for an exciting activity holiday with your family: 21 activity holiday adventures in the UK and Europe

If you like these types of medieval buildings, you can also check out Château Saint Léon and Château du Hohlandsbourg.

Visit Eguisheim

If you’re looking to make a day trip from Strasbourg to visit Eguisheim, you’ll find it’s one of the most charming and picturesque Alsacian villages in this wonderful region. You can start your day by exploring the village’s cobbled streets, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and flower-filled balconies.

Next, head to the historic castle ruins, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and hills. Afterwards, stop by one of the local wineries to sample some of the region’s famous wines.

Finally, end your day with a stroll through the beautiful vineyards and enjoy the stunning views of the countryside before returning to Strasbourg.

How far is Eguisheim from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Eguisheim is 79 kilometres. You can visit Eguisheim by public transport via the neighbouring village of Colmar

Best things to do near Strasbourg – Alsace Wine Route

The Alsace Wine Route is 170 km long, starting near Strasbourg in the north and ending just south of Colmar. As mentioned earlier this area is a wonderful blend of French and German cultures.

Colourful, half-timbered buildings line cobblestoned streets with wine merchants and paddocks of vines around every corner. The wine route takes in some legendary towns such as Ribeauville, Kayserberg, and Eguisheim.

Organise your trip to Alsace with free entry to a large choice of museums, castles, wildlife parks, and more. With the Pass Alsace, enjoy free entry to 56 sites in Alsace. Head to the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, the Monkeys Mountain, or the Batorama sightseeing boat tour in Strasbourg. Benefit from discounts and reductions.

Yes, Paris, even the capital of France is doable in one day from Strasbourg. You can catch the early morning TGV fast train from Strasbourg which will have you in the heart of Paris in 2 hours.

Spend the day strolling the Champs Elysees , climb the Eiffel Tower , stroll the left bank have wine and pastry before catching the late afternoon Paris to Strasbourg service back.

Related: The Alsace is an amazing area of North-East France to visit. We have a great guide to The best things to do in the Alsace for you to plan your trip with

Visit another country on a day trip from Strasbourg

France is an amazing country and there is so much more right on its doorstep. You can do some amazing day trips from Strasbourg that include visiting another country!

What to do near Strasbourg – Visit Basel Switzerland

Basel like Strasbourg is located on the Rhine River in northwest Switzerland, close to the country’s borders with France and Germany. Its medieval old town centres around Marktplatz, where you will find most tourists who visit Basel.

The Basel Switzerland Old Town is dominated by the 16th-century, red-sandstone Town Hall. It’s a 12th-century Gothic cathedral. Basel is the closest city to Strasbourg in Switzerland.

How far is Basel from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Basel is 136 Kilometres

Read more: Things to do in Freiburg and surrounds

Europa Park for fun near Strasbourg

Day trips from Strasbourg France to Germany are easy. Europa Park is Europe’s 2nd most popular theme park in Europe behind Disneyland Paris . It lies in Rust Germany. Europa Park like many theme parks is broken up into different themed areas.

The big roller coasters are what most people come for. The Silver Star tops 240 feet high and reaches speeds of 90 miles an hour. The Wooden wood roller coaster is through back to the classic wooden coasters of the past. It reaches a height of 131 feet and speeds through at nearly 65 miles an hour. Europa Park has something for everyone.

How far is Europa Park from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Europe Park is 59 Kilometres

Tours from Strasbourg France

The German town of Heidelberg is a town on the Neckar River in southwestern Germany, roughly halfway between Frankfurt and Strasbourg. Heidelberg is one of the scenic German towns near Strasbourg

Heidelberg Bridge with fog coming off the water

The town square in the Altstadt Old Town and the red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle are today protected by UNESCO. The iconic bridge that spans the Necker River is an amazing place to take in the views of the town. Heidelberg Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers over the town square. You will find bars, restaurants, and shops leading off in all directions.

How far is Heidelberg from Strasbourg?

Heidelberg is 132 kilometres from Strasbourg.

Related: If castles and old towns are your things, then Heidelberg is just the place. Let us show you how to do one day in Heidelberg

Day trips from Strasbourg to the Black Forest

As Strasbourg sits right on the France-German border the Black Forest makes an ideal day trip from Strasbourg. We will explore 2 Black Forest destinations.

Baden Baden

A day trip from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden , Germany, would allow you to explore the famous spa town, its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

Start your day by strolling along Lichtentaler Allee, a scenic promenade lined with parks and gardens. Then, head to the iconic Baden-Baden Casino , Germany’s oldest casino and one of Europe’s most elegant gaming halls.

After that, visit the Museum Frieder Burda, which houses a notable collection of contemporary art. For a relaxing experience, soak in the thermal waters of Caracalla Spa or Friedrichsbad, hence why they call Baden Baden a spa town.

End your day by taking a scenic drive along the Black Forest’s picturesque roads or visiting the nearby Mummelsee Lake.

How far is Baden Baden from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Baden Baden is 58 kilometres.

What to do near Strasbourg – explore Titisee

Titisee is one of the most popular destinations in the Black Forest. It sits on an idyllic lake offering boating and watersports in the summer months. In winter many day-trippers arrive to have coffee and enjoy the local iconic Black Forest Cake. Tourist shops and cuckoo clocks line the street as the tourists pour in from trains and cars.

How far is Titisee from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Titisee is 122 Kilometres

Triberg im Schwarzwald is a town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, located in the Schwarzwald-Baar district in the Black Forest. Triberg is 83 kilometres from Strasbourg. By car, it will take somewhere between 1.15 to 1.30.

Waterfall with a bridge in the Triberg Black Forest Germany

Triberg is a beautiful town high in the black forest with many traditional houses and souvenir shops selling cuckoo clocks. Triberg is famous for its waterfalls. The waterfall is the highest in Germany cascading down a series of falls over a length of 163 meters.

How far is Triberg from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Triberg is 83 Kilometres

Freiburg im Breisgau

Freiburg is one of the biggest cities close to Strasbourg. If you love the sun, Freiburg is one of the sunniest cities in all of Germany with a mild climate all year around. The city is famous for its city gates and old town Munster which was started in the 12th century.

Freiburg has a unique system of water channels called the Bachle that runs through the streets like a small river snaking its way around the city.

Freiburg has many green spaces for relaxing on warm sunny days. The Mundelhof on the edge of the city is an animal reserve that is popular with families. Martins Brau in the city centre brews some amazing craft beer and is a great place to grab some German cuisine. Freiburg is a top choice for cities to visit around Strasbourg

How far is Freiburg from Strasbourg?

Strasbourg to Freiburg is 89 kilometres

Discover More: Freiburg is an amazing city to visit just down the road from Strasbourg. We have a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Freiburg Germany

Frequently asked questions about Strasbourg

Q1. what is strasbourg france.

A1. Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, near the German border. It is the capital of the Grand Est region and the Bas-Rhin department.

Q2. What are the top attractions in Strasbourg?

A2. Some of the top attractions in Strasbourg include the Strasbourg Cathedral, the Petite France neighbourhood, the Palais Rohan, the Musée des Beaux-Arts, and the European Parliament.

Q3. What is the best time to visit Strasbourg?

A3. The best time to visit Strasbourg is from April to June or from September to November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you want to experience the city’s famous Christmas markets, you should visit in December.

Q4. How do I get to Strasbourg?

A4. Strasbourg is easily accessible by train from major cities in France and Germany. It also has its own international airport, the Strasbourg Airport (SXB), which serves a number of destinations in Europe.

A5. The local cuisine in Strasbourg is a mix of French and German influences, with popular dishes including choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages and potatoes), flammkuchen (a thin, crispy pizza-like dish), and baeckeoffe (a meat and vegetable stew). Local wines, such as Gewürztraminer and Riesling, are also popular.

Where to stay in Strasbourg

If you decide a day in Strasbourg is not enough we have some excellent Strasbourg accommodation recommendations for you.

Accommodation in Strasbourg comes in all shapes and sizes to fit all groups from singles to families. There is a burgeoning luxury hotel scene in the city as well as hotels and apartments.

Luxury accommodation in Strasbourg

Luxury hotels in Strasbourg include Hotel Le Bouclier d’Or et Spa , Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery , and Hotel Les Haras

Hotels for couples in Strasbourg

The best hotels in Strasbourg for couples are Garrigae Villa La Florangerie , Pavillon REGENT PETITE FRANCE , and Hotel Suisse .

Hotels for families in Strasbourg France

The best family hotels include Garrigae Villa La Florangerie and Mercure Strasbourg Palais des Congress received great reviews from families travelling in Strasbourg.

An apartment is another popular option for staying in the Alsace capital. The Strasbourg apartment option is affordable and often gives you great choices for a number of rooms, locations, and parking choices for your stay in Strasbourg . Apartments often feature kitchens and kitchenettes, so you can cook. Check the Apartment map or our personal choice at the start of the accommodation section.

How to get to Strasbourg France by plane

Strasbourg Airport is a minor international airport located in Entzheim and 10 km west-southwest of Strasbourg. Air France and KLM fly from Paris to Strasbourg Airport multiple times a day. The flight takes 1 hour and departs Paris from both CGD and Orly airports.

Besides Paris and other domestic locations, you can fly directly to Strasbourg from Munich, Istanbul, Barcelona, Tel Aviv, and London just to name a few. You can book your flights to Strasbourg with Skyscanner.

Strasbourg Gare Centrale Train Station receives a number of daily TGV high-speed trains. Strasbourg has direct high-speed train lines with Dijon, Lyon, Avignon, AixDisneyland Paris, Paris, CDG Airport, and Marseille.

Regional trains from the Alsace Region and connections locally with Freiburg in Germany and Basel in Switzerland are available. Day trips from Strasbourg by train are a good and easy option. You can book all your trains to Strasbourg with Omio Go Europe .

Can you drive to Strasbourg France?

You can drive to Strasbourg from all over Europe. The highways in France are of high quality and well-maintained. The French Highways have tolls on them, which can be quite expensive. You can drive to Strasbourg from Paris in around 6 hours, from Frankfurt in around 1 hour, and to Freiburg in around 45 minutes.

Day trips from Strasbourg, France are best done by car to maximise your time and variety of choices. You can pick up a hire car at any airport in Europe and in Strasbourg

Parking in Strasbourg can be expensive in the old town area. Your best option is the park and ride system. There are 12 places located on the outskirts of the city that you can park and catch a tram into the city centre. The cost is only 4.20 euro per car for up to 7 people including transport by tram into the city Look here for more information on the park and ride ,locations in Strasbourg

How to get to Strasbourg by bus

Flix Bus and Eurolines service many destinations around Europe by bus. Buses arrive and depart Strasbourg from Place de l’Étoile 67076 Strasbourg France. Buses from Paris to Strasbourg take around 6.5 hours. The big bus companies offer comfortable seats, air conditioning, and onboard WiFi. You can book all your buses to Strasbourg with Busbud

We hope this post from us here at Wyld Family Travel inspires you to take some of the best Strasbourg day trips while visiting France. For more amazing ideas to help you plan your trip to the Alsace region click through to our France Destination Guide Page.

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The 8 Best Day Trips From Strasbourg

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Strasbourg , the capital of France's "Grand Est" region, offers everything from stunning architecture to distinctive local cuisine and seasonal events like world-famous Christmas markets. But it's also an excellent hub and starting point for a broader exploration of northeastern France and the historic area known as Alsace . From medieval riverside villages studded with brightly colored, half-timbered houses to rolling vineyards punctuated with clifftop castles, these are some of the best day trips from Strasbourg—all easy excursions you can take by car, train, or guided tour.

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Just a short trip from Strasbourg, the storybook-pretty town of Colmar is also a convenient hub for exploring the Alsace Wine Route .

Spend the day exploring the area known as La Petite Venise, a remarkably well-preserved Renaissance district prized for its half-timbered houses with brightly colored facades, meandering canals fed by the Lauch River, and pleasant waterside restaurants and cafes.

Also make sure to see Old Town, itself endowed with buildings dating from the 12th through the 17th centuries.

Meanwhile, the Musée Unterlinden holds the Issenheim Altarpiece, a late Middle Ages masterpiece that depicts biblical tales. It also boasts an impressive modern art collection comprising masterpieces from Monet, Renoir, Picasso, and many others.

Getting There: Trains depart regularly from central Strasbourg and take roughly 30 minutes. By car, take the A35 south; the trip takes around 55 minutes.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour around Little Venise for outstanding photo opportunities.

Kaysersberg

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With its cobblestone pavings, warmly-hued old houses, sprawling vineyards, and dramatic castle, Kaysersberg is the sort of Alsatian town you see spotlighted on postcards and in tourist brochures. It's photogenic, historic, and offers plenty to do.

Visit Kaysersberg Castle , built in around 1200 when the town was a stronghold of the Holy Roman Empire. The circular tower affords sweeping views over the rolling green hills and town below.

Wander through the winding streets of Old Town, visit the Historical Museum , and take a guided tour or cycling tour through nearby vineyards (find info and book at the Tourist Office ).

Getting There: By car, take the A35 to Kaysersberg from Strasbourg (around 55 minutes). Guided tours are also available from Strasbourg or Colmar.

Travel Tip: Hikers and campers will appreciate the nearby forest paths and campsites, ideal for long walks or overnight stays.

IÃ±igo Fdz de Pinedo /Moment/Getty Images

Anyone who sets foot in Riquewihr will quickly understand why it's been named one of France's most beautiful villages. Viewed from the nearby hills, with its church steeple rising above clusters of half-timbered buildings in an array of colors, it's like something out of a fairy tale or animated film.

Meander through the medieval and Renaissance-era streets, admiring the town's pretty facades, balconies teeming with flowers, quiet squares dominated by fountains, cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. The Dolder Gate Tower stands at the end of the Rue du Géneral de Gaulle and dates to the late 13th century; it houses a small museum.

Getting There: Trains depart regularly from Strasbourg and take around 1 hour 10 minutes (change trains at Sélestat). By car, take the A35 southwest (approximately 50 minutes).

Travel Tip: Duck into one of the town's rustic winstubs (wine taverns) to feast on typical Alsatian cuisine and wines.

Ribeauvillé

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Just a few miles from Riquewihr, the grand medieval town of Ribeauvillé stands between rolling vineyards and old forests. With its imposing fortifications and dramatic ruins of three castles, it offers plenty of epic inspiration-- and gorgeous walks.

Explore Old Town, including Grand-Rue (Main Street) and its many handsome buildings, many dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries. Happen upon Renaissance-era squares adorned with bubbling fountains, and visit sites such as the 13th-century Butcher's Tower and the Corn Exchange to glimpse medieval life.

Take a tour of the centuries-old vineyards, visit the cellars, and taste some distinctive local wines. Ribeauvillé is also the site of several annual festivals, including the Medieval Christmas Market and the Wine Fair (midsummer).

Getting There: Trains regularly depart from Strasbourg and take roughly 1 hour (change trains at Sélestat). By car, take the A35 southwest (approximately 45 minutes).

Travel Tip: Take the Petit Train (a mini tourist train) for a picturesque guided tour around Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr.

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Located roughly 25 miles south of Strasbourg, the fortified town of Obernai-- once part of the Holy Roman Empire-- offers a wealth of historic sights and things to do. Nestled over the mouth of the Ehn River, it also lies at the gateway of the Alsace Wine Route and the edge of the Vosges mountains.

The town center is noteworthy for its medieval gates, 13th-century tower, and winding mostly pedestrian little streets. Take an ambling stroll through the lanes, admiring the old Burghers' houses, cobblestoned squares, and ornate old buildings.

The Place du Marché is the town's lovely central market square and is flanked with handsome old houses. Also pay a visit to the Place de l'Etoile, boasting some of the town's finest half-timbered homes.

Getting There: Direct trains depart regularly from Strasbourg and take around 40 minutes. By car, take the A35 southwest (about 25 minutes).

Travel Tip: Visit during the winter holiday season to enjoy Obernai's Christmas market, tree, and other festivities.

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Just south from Colmar, another of France's most beautiful villages looms, dominated by its medieval towers and church. Eguisheim is a tiny, remarkably preserved town that's well worth a visit, perhaps as part of a day trip to nearby Colmar. Explore the town on foot, whose narrow, circular streets abound with quiet squares, courtyards and alleyways, and half-timbered houses overflowing with colorful blossoms (in the warmer months). The Rue des Remparts is an exceptionally picturesque place for a stroll. Also visit the 13th-century church, noteworthy for its wooden shrine to the "Opening Virgin."

Getting There: By car, take the A35 south (around 55 minutes). Inquire at the Strasbourg or Colmar tourist office about guided tours by coach.

Travel Tip: For dramatic views over the town, climb Schlossberg Hill to the three Castles of Eguisheim , towers representing the only remnants of castles built between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Orschwiller and the Chateau du Haut-Koeningsbourg

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Dominated by the Chateau du Haut-Koeningsbourg , a stunningly restored early medieval castle and one of France's most popular tourist attractions, the humble town of Orschwiller is a charming stop in the area.

First, spend a half-day exploring the castle and its dramatic fortifications, surrounded by deciduous forests that are particularly stunning in the fall. Admire views of Orschwiller and the nearby Vosges mountains from the castle, perched high on a rocky outcrop.

Next, drive down to the valley below and take a walk through Orschwiller, with its attractive half-timbered houses, surrounding vineyards, and rustic Alsatian country vibe.

Getting There: Trains regularly depart from Strasbourg (around 40 minutes; change at Sélestat). By car, take the A35 south (about 40 minutes).

Travel Tip: If you're traveling by car, a scenic drive through the surrounding winemaking villages is an excellent way to explore the area around the Chateau.

Munster Valley

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Food lovers won't want to miss a day trip to the scenic Munster Valley , which is—you guessed it—most famous for producing the aromatic, orange-rinded cheeses of the same name.

Surrounded by forests and vineyards, the valley is a picturesque destination just west of Colmar, making it an easy extra stop on a day trip there from Strasbourg. It comprises several charming, typical Alsatian towns, from Munster itself to Wihr au Val, and countless opportunities for hiking, water sports, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Meanwhile, cheese and wine lovers will find an abundance of artisan shops, wine taverns, and opportunities for tastings in Munster and elsewhere.

Getting There: By train from Strasbourg, changing at Colmar (about 90 minutes). By car, take the A35 southwest (about 70 minutes).

Travel Tip: Visit La Maison du Fromage for a fun look at the history of cheesemaking in Alsace, then visit the boutique and restaurant.

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18 Best Day Trips From Strasbourg by Train (2024)

Are you looking for the best day trips from Strasbourg by train? You came to the right place!

You might think you need a car to explore the wonderful region of Alsace. Yet, I lived in Strasbourg for about 2 years, and I visited most of the Alsace region by public transport.

Sure, it is easier to get around with a car. But it is not essential, and most backpackers and students are not traveling by car anyway!

I will show you a mix of must-see Alsatian villages, nature escapes, and city getaways. All the places in this article are easily accessible by public transport, a train or a bus!

Whether you’re looking for Alsace day trips from Strasbourg or you’re moving to Strasbourg, all these ideas will keep you busy for months!

Keep reading for the best day trips from Strasbourg by public transport!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Best Day Trips From Strasbourg by Train

1. Day Trip To Colmar

A visit to Colmar is the most popular day trip from Strasbourg. The historic center of Colmar is one of those places that feel like they’ve been untouched by modernization.

Once you reach Colmar , head straight to the Petite Venice quarter.

As you stroll the cobblestone streets and cross the bridges, you will feel like you are in a different era.

How to get from Strasbourg to Colmar?

By train: Take a train from Strasbourg train station. It takes approximately 30 minutes. By bus: Take a Flixbus from the Strasbourg bus station.

Check train departure times and prices here!

Day trip from Strasbourg to Alsace villages

Ribeauvillé

If you visit Strasbourg, a day trip to Alsatian villages is essential, especially if you visit in time for the Christmas Market . You might think that Strasbourg is already a real-life fairytale city, but wait until you see the villages on this list!

It should come as no surprise that Alsace villages are on the prestigious list of The most beautiful villages in France .

Alsace villages might look familiar if you’ve seen Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

There are a few versions of the story in which one of the villages inspired Disney. Some say it was Riquewihr, and some say it was Eguisheim. The best way to find out is to visit both and compare!

You can also visit Alsace villages on an organized tour if you don’t feel like dealing with buses and trains yourself.

2. Day Trip To Eguisheim

Eguisheim is probably the best-known Alsace village, as it won the title of “France’s Favourite Village” in 2013.

You don’t need a specific itinerary to visit Eguisheim. Stroll the cobblestone street and admire the authenticity of the village.

This medieval city was built in a circular form around its castle, and it is well preserved to this day!

How to get to Eguisheim from Strasbourg?

Take a bus or a train to Colmar. Once in Colmar, take Fluo bus 208 from the Colmar Train station. Check the schedule on the Fluo Grand Est website .

This bus only passes a couple of times a day and not on the weekend, so another great way to visit is to cycle there!

Take your bike on a train to Colmar for free, and cycle for 30 minutes from Colmar to Eguisheim.

riquewihr cobblestone streets and colorful houses

3. Day Trip To Riquewihr

Riquewihr is one of the most charming places I’ve ever visited. It is rightfully on the list of the most beautiful villages in France.

This village on top of the hill is surrounded by vineyards. Stroll the cobblestone streets and admire colorful half-timbered houses.

How to get to Riquewihr from Strasbourg?

Take a bus or a train to Colmar. Once in Colmar, take Fluo bus 106 from the Colmar Train station. Check the schedule on the Fluo Grand Est website .

Alternatively, you can take your bike on a train to Colmar for free and cycle from Colmar to Riquewihr. But keep in mind that Riquewihr is on top of a hill!

4. Day Trip To Hunawihr

Hunawihr is another charming village you can visit on the same trip as Riquewihr, as you enjoy the Alsace vineyards between the two towns.

How to get to Hunawihr from Strasbourg?

You can visit Hunawihr on the same trip as Riquewihr, it is just 2.5km away, and you can walk from one village to the other!

Alternatively, you can take your bike on a train to Colmar for free and cycle from Colmar to Hunawihr.

5. Day Trip To Ribeauvillé

Ribeauvillé is a charming village guarded by three old castles overlooking the city. As it is a small village, the most popular way to visit is combined with a three-castle hike.

It is a short hike uphill if you’re visiting from the city, and you can see all three castles and be back in under 2 hours.

How to get to Ribeauvillé from Strasbourg?

First, you will take a train to Selestat. Then, you will take a 25-minute TER Fluo bus from Selestat train station to Ribeauvillé.

Check the PDF bus schedule here or make a simulation on the Fluo website .

Do you want to visit all the Alsace villages but can’t organize it yourself in one day? You can also visit all these villages without a car on an organized Alsace tour !

🚂 Check rates and availability for Highlights of the Alsace tour!

Best Hikes And Castles From Strasbourg

Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg to Ribeauvillé
Mont Sainte-Odile and Obernai
Château du Haut-Barr and Saverne

In this section, I will focus on some of the best nature escapes from Strasbourg. Nature in Alsace is incredible.

While you need a car for most of the best hikes in the area, you can still reach some fantastic hiking trails and castles by public transport!

Château de Saint-Ulrich and the mountains around it

6. Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg to Ribeauvillé hike

This hike idea is the extended version of a popular hike known as the three-castle of Ribeauvillé hike.

You can just visit the Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg without hiking to Ribeauvillé, as it is the most impressive and well-preserved castle in the region.

You can walk around the outdoors of the castle for free, but you will have to get a ticket to see the inside.

Once you’ve explored the chateau, start walking back down the road you came from, towards Thannenkirch.

You’ll have to pass through the village on the way to the Three Castle Trail. You will walk a bit on the side of the road, so don’t think you did something wrong.

This hike will take you around 4 hours to complete if you take your time to enjoy the scenery and climb the castles.

How to get to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg from Strasbourg?

You’re going to take a train to Selestat. From Selestat train station you will take a bus 500 to Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg.

Check the bus 500 schedule here .

From Ribeauvillé, you can take a TER Fluo bus back to Selestat train station.

7. Mont Sainte-Odile and Obernai

Combine a hike to the Mont Sainte-Odile with a visit to the charming village of Obernai.

Start your hike from the village of Ottrrot. Follow the signs leading you to the start of the trail.

The hike is moderately challenging, and it will take about an hour to two hours to reach the Monastery, depending on your fitness level.

The peak altitude of the hike is 760m, and it is free to visit the Monastery.

If you are backpacking Europe in winter , this trail is also stunning when covered in snow!

How to get to Mont Sainte-Odile from Strasbourg?

There are two ways to reach Mont Sainte-Odile.

First, you can take a train to Obernai and then take a bus 257 or 262 or walk for about half an hour to Ottrrot.

Alternatively, you can do as I did. You take bus 257 from Strasbourg to Ottrrot , it takes about an hour and costs 2,50€. This bus goes all the way to Mont Sainte-Odile if you are not into hiking and just want to visit the Monastery!

After finishing the hike, you can walk to Obernai. You will walk on the car road, but it is not very busy, so it is not dangerous.

Finally, take a train or a bus back to Strasbourg from Obernai.

🚂 Check Obernai train departure times and prices here!

8. Château du Haut-Barr and Saverne

While not as famous as the Alsace villages around Colmar, Saverne is another one of the popular cities near Strasbourg to visit.

However, a visit to Saverne is the best combined with a hike to the Château du Haut-Barr.

It is an enjoyable hike to the castle, and it will take you less than an hour to reach it. The chateau is free to visit! Walk around and climb the watch tower for the best view of the whole region.

You can finish the hike after reaching the castle or continue to Tour du Télégraphe Chappe and Château du Grand-Geroldseck.

How to get to Château du Haut-Barr from Strasbourg?

Take a train from Strasbourg to Saverne, it takes approximately 40 minutes. Once you’re in Saverne, you’ll have to walk to the beginning of the trail, next to the Hôtel La Garenne.

Once you’re on a trail, it’s pretty straightforward just follow the sign upwards.

🚂 Check the train to Saverne departure times and prices here!

Best Cycling Trips From Strasbourg

Alsace wine route
Strasbourg to Saverne
Kehl and Baggersee Kork lake

Alsace is a region perfect for cycling. It is the most bike-friendly region I’ve ever visited, as you can bike everywhere!

As long as you stay away from highways, you will see a bike lane on the road!

9. Cycling the Alsace Wine Route

You might wonder if it is possible to bike the Alsace wine route. Yes!

If you are sporty and love cycling, biking along the Alsace wine route is an excellent day trip from Strasbourg.

The Alsace wine route is over 170km long, way too long for a cycling day trip. However, you can check the map and select the part of the route you’d like to cycle.

The most picturesque part of the Route might be between Selestat and Colmar, the part of the route that passes through the fairytale villages of Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé.

If cycling and drinking wine sound too challenging, how about joining a tour? That way you don’t have to worry about transportation, and you can just enjoy wine tastings. This Half-Day Wine Tour from Strasbourg is one of the best day tours from Strasbourg!

To reach the Alsace wine route, take your bike on a TER train to Selestat and return from Colmar. If you book your train in advance, it can be 5€ per direction!

10. From Strasbourg to Saverne by bike

Yes, you can bike to Savern from Strasbourg, along the river canal. The cycling path starts north of Strasbourg, close to the European Court of Human Rights.

Once you’re on the route, you can’t go wrong, as road signs will make sure you’re on the right way!

You don’t have to worry about cars because 95% of the cycling route is away from the road. It is around 40 km and mostly flat, so it is not as hard as it might sound!

That being said, when I did it, it took me about 5-6 hours with multiple stops to admire the surroundings. And by surroundings, I mean those bales of hay pictured below.

11. Cycling to Kehl and Baggersee Kork lake

Cycling from France to Germany is a fantastic thing to tick off your bucket list! It is easier than ever if you are already in Strasbourg.

Cross the Europe Bridge and bike straight into the German city of Kehl. You will see many French people in Kehl grocery shopping as Germany tends to be cheaper than France for particular items.

If you visit Strasbourg in summer , cycle to Baggersee Kork swimming lake!

It is under 15km from the city center of Strasbourg to the lake. Once you leave Kehl, you will cycle along the fields, away from the road. Bike lanes are everywhere, so don’t worry about safety!

If you need more cycling day trip ideas, check out Cycling in Alsace for all the cycling routes in the region.

Best Day Trips From Strasbourg To Germany

12. fun day trip to europa park.

Are you looking for a fun weekend day trip out of Strasbourg?

The largest German theme park Europa Park is just an hour away from Strasbourg and you can visit it on a fun Strasbourg to Germany day trip!

A visit to the theme park is a great way to spend a weekend as there are more than 100 attractions so everyone can find something for themselves.

🎡Check the prices and get your Europa Park ticket online !

How to get to Europa Park from Strasbourg?

It is easy to get to Europa Park by public transport! You can take a shuttle bus or a Flixbus.

A shuttle bus ticket will cost you 8€ for a return ticket, and the bus takes about an hour to reach the park. Check the departure schedule on the CTBR website .

Alternatively, you can take a Flixbus, but it is more expensive and departs later, so you have less time in the park.

13. Day Trip to Baden-Baden

If you are looking for a relaxing, more luxurious day trip from Strasbourg, Baden-Baden is the destination for you.

This German town is well-known as a spa town. Thanks to its thermal baths, it has been a popular resort since the 19th century.

When you’re done relaxing, stroll around the charming city center of Baden-Baden.

How to get from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden?

The best way to get from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden is by Flixbus . A ride takes less than an hour, and tickets start at 5,99€ if you book in advance.

Alternatively, you can take a train. There are more daily departures, and it takes approximately the same time to get to Baden-Baden. However, the tickets tend to be more expensive.

Check trains to Baden Baden departure times and prices here!

14. Day Trip to Frankfurt

Frankfurt is best known as the financial hub and home to the European Central Bank.

However, there’s more to Frankfurt than just the skyscrapers in the financial district.

Pedestrian city center, cobblestone streets, and colorful houses in the Römerberg. Join a free walking tour to learn more about the city’s history.

How to get from Strasbourg to Frankfurt?

You can either take a bus or a train.

Taking a train is the quicker option, as there is a direct train that takes under 2 hours to get to Frankfurt. But, it is more expensive than a bus.

German and French trains serve this route, so I like to book my train tickets with Trainline , as it shows me all the trains operating the line so I can choose the one that works best for me!

I took a Flixbus to Frankfurt since it was significantly cheaper. The bus takes 4-5 hours, and you should wake up early to catch the first one.

It is a lot of driving for one day. However, if you catch the bus at 5:40 am, you have enough time to explore the city on a day trip!

Compare departure times and prices to Frankfurt here!

Strasbourg Day Trips To France

15. day trip to metz.

Metz is a city rich in culture and history. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site applicant and a melting pot of French and German influence.

Stroll around the city center, admire the stunning Metz Cathedral, and visit the impressive fortification Porte des Allemandes.

How to get to Metz from Strasbourg?

The cheapest way to get to Metz is to combine bus and train.

Take a Flixbus to go to Metz. Tickets start at 4,99€, and the bus takes around 3 hours. The way back might be too early for some, as the last bus is at 16:45.

A train goes from Metz to Strasbourg more often, and tickets start at 10€. Also, it is a quicker way to travel, as it takes on average under 2 hours.

Check departure times and prices from Strasbourg to Metz!

16. Day trip to Nancy

Nancy is a city of majestic 18th-century architecture. The city is a real change from the half-timbered houses in Strasbourg.

The main attraction is the 18th-century Place Stanislas. This grand square is decorated with gilded wrought-iron gates and splendid fountains.

How to get to Nancy from Strasbourg?

You can take a Flixbus , it takes 2 hours and if you book in advance tickets start at 3,99€!

Alternatively, take a train! It takes 1.5 hours on average, and train tickets start at 10€ if you book in advance.

Check departure times and tickets from Strasbourg to Nancy!

girl in front of the eiffel tower in paris

17. Day Trip To Paris

Yes, you can visit Paris on a day trip from Strasbourg!

Paris needs no introduction, as it is the most visited city in the world!

Have a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower, wander the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, or stroll along the Seine River.

The list of things to do in Paris is endless!

How to get to Paris from Strasbourg on a day trip?

You need to take a train. A train from Strasbourg to Paris takes approximately 2 hours and brings you to the Gare de l’Est.

These trains can get very expensive. OUIGO trains are the best value for money, and you can find tickets for under 20€! Book in advance to get the best price.

Flixbus goes from Strasbourg to Paris, but the journey is too long to make it worth it for a day trip. However, if you are spending a weekend in Paris, Flixbus is usually the more affordable option.

Check departure times and prices from Strasbourg to Paris!

18. Day trip to Luxembourg

Luxembourg is an excellent idea for a one day trip from Strasbourg! Public transport is free in the country so you can see all the main attractions in one day.

Luxembourg is a UNESCO World Heritage site , so make sure to visit the impressive fortifications and the city center that remained virtually untouched for centuries.

How to get to Luxembourg from Strasbourg on a day trip?

Theoretically, it is possible to get Flixbus from Strasbourg to Luxembourg. The bus takes around 3 hours to get to Luxembourg, but the departure times are not the best for a day trip.

Instead, go by train! It takes approximately the same time, but train departure times are more convenient for a day trip.

Check departure times and prices from Strasbourg to Luxembourg here!

Public transport in Alsace

Public transport in the region is reliable and works pretty well. If you don’t have a car, you can reach all the places I recommend by train or bus.

Trains from Strasbourg

Trains are the most popular form of public transport in Grand Est and you’ll be spoilt with options of where to go from Strasbourg by train.

TER trains are regional trains connecting Strasbourg to most towns in the region. Check out the TER network map to see all the destinations.

It’s good to know that you can take a bike on TER trains for free!

For international train trips, I book my tickets on Trainline . They show you a whole trip through multiple countries by researching multiple operators.

That way, you can book just one ticket on the Trainline platform instead of analyzing each operator’s website.

How to save money on trains in Alsace?

Book your tickets in advance to take advantage of first-minute tickets. Tickets are up to 70% cheaper if you book in advance!

TIP: First-minute prices expire 2 days before the travel date, regardless of if they are sold out.

If you plan to travel often in the region, you can save 50% on train tickets with Fluo Card . The card costs 20€ (if you are under 26, it is just 1€!) and is valid for a year.

But pay attention, it is 50% of the full ticket price, not the first-minute price.

Booking in advance is still the best way to save money, but it might be difficult in the high season or on the weekends.

Local bus lines in Alsace

Local bus lines are the only public transport going to most Alsace villages. They are affordable and comfortable.

Unlike regular city buses, these buses are usually a long-distance type of bus, which makes them considerably more comfortable than a typical public transport bus.

Fluo Grand Est 67 network can be an alternative to train for some day trips, as it is more affordable. One way ticket is just 2,50€!

Long-distance buses from Strasbourg

Finally, we have long-distance buses like Flixbus and Blablabus . They are the most affordable way to reach far destinations like Paris or Frankfurt.

Long-distance buses are a cheaper alternative to trains. At the same time, they take longer to reach their destination.

Therefore, you won’t be able to visit Paris on a day trip by Flixbus, but you can if you travel by train!

best day trips from strasbourg by train pinterest pin

Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips From Strasbourg By Train

If you’re wondering where to go from Strasbourg, there are plenty of places to visit near Strasbourg, and you don’t even need a car!

Public transport is great in the Alsace region and virtually every tourist spot is on the public transport route.

From discovering picturesque Alsace villages to romantic Paris and active holidays in the mountains around Strasbourg, there is something for everyone!

These Strasbourg day trips are a great addition to your Strasbourg itinerary , and there are so many places near Strasbourg to visit!

If you enjoyed this list of the best day trips from Strasbourg by train, pin it for later and share it with your friends who want to travel this summer.

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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paris day trip to strasbourg

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COMMENTS

The Perfect Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris (by a Local)

Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris Overview

Getting to Strasbourg from Paris

One Day in Strasbourg – 12 Things to Do

1. Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral

2. Admire the Kammerzell House

3. Take a Batorama Boat Tour

4. Experience the Palais Rohan

5. Tour the Alsatian Museum

6. Lunch at Le Gurtlerhoft

7. Stop by Au Fond du Jardin

8. Discover Place Kléber

9. Explore La Petite France

10. Admire Ponts Couverts

11. Visit the Barrage Vauban

12. Meander around Neustadt

Conclusion: Day Trip from Paris to Strasbourg

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Jen Ciesielski

Taking a Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris: A Local’s Guide

Wondering if it’s possible to do a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris?

Your day trip to Strasbourg from Paris

‼️ SPOILER ALERT

How to get to Strasbourg from Paris in one day

Taking a TGV Train from Paris to Strasbourg

Taking a OUIGO Train from Paris to Strasbourg

5 Things to do in one day in Strasbourg

No 1 – Strasbourg City Centre Bike Tou r

N o 2 – The Traditional Strasbourg Food Tour

No 3 – Take a boat cruise in Strasbourg

No 4 – Private Walking Tour of Strasbourg

No 5 – Interactive, Self-Guided City Tour of Strasbourg

A Private Tour from Paris to Strasbourg

Three Things you MUST do on a day trip to Strasbourg

No 1 – Drink some Alsatian Wine

No 2 – Try a Tarte Flambée

No 3 – Indulge in a Beer & Bretzel Combo

Where to eat and drink in Strasbourg

Chez Yvonne

What you should know about the historic city of Strasbourg

FAQS: Taking a Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris

Is one day enough in Strasbourg?

How much does it cost to travel from Paris to Strasbourg?

Can you do a day trip to Strasbourg from Paris?

Is there a train station from Paris to Strasbourg?

What is the cheapest way to get from Paris to Strasbourg?

How much is a high speed train from Paris to Strasbourg?

Final thoughts: Spending a day in Strasbourg

Paris City Today

Day trip to Strasbourg from Paris - Steb-by-Step

European Parliament

Culinary Experience:

Best Restaurants in Strasbourg

Explore Europe by Train: Easy Day Trips and Connected Cities

Paris to Strasbourg Train Day Trip

Get Your Paris to Strasbourg Train Tickets Early!

Where to Purchase the Paris to Strasbourg Train Tickets

Your Paris to Strasbourg Train (and back)

Navigating Paris CDG Train Station:

Arriving at Strasbourg Train Station

Why Do a Paris to Strasbourg Day Trip?

Strasbourg main sights:

Petite France

Strasbourg Grande-Île sites

The Rest of Strasbourg

7 thoughts on “ Paris to Strasbourg Train Day Trip ”

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How to Travel from Paris to Strasbourg (The Easy Way)

Option One: Taking the Train from Paris to Strasbourg

How Long Does the Paris to Strasbourg Train Take?

How Much Does a Train Ticket Cost?

Where to Purchase Train Tickets

Where Does the Train Depart from in Paris?

Where Does the Train Arrive at in Strasbourg?

Advantages of Taking the Paris to Strasbourg Train

Disadvantages of Taking the Paris to Strasbourg Train

Option Two: Taking the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg

How Long Does the Bus from Paris to Strasbourg Take?

How Much Does a Bus Ticket Cost?

Where to Purchase Bus Tickets