The main attraction of Strasbourg is its historic center, located on the island of the Ile River. This part of the city is recognized as a world cultural heritage and is entirely under the protection of UNESCO. To avoid getting lost in its ancient streets, it is better to buy a map with Strasbourg sights.
It will take you through the “Covered Bridges” — a defensive structure of the city built in the mid-13th century. They were named so because the walkways were once covered with wooden roofs, but after numerous reconstructions, this feature disappeared. The bridges themselves, along with their defensive towers, have been well preserved to this day, and tourists love to take photos of Strasbourg’s landmarks from there.
Another remarkable bridge that every Strasbourg guidebook mentions is the European Bridge. It spans the Rhine River and connects two neighboring countries. Although the structure holds no particular cultural value — it was built recently — it was inaugurated in the presence of Angela Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy. The locals, however, are very proud of it.
One of the main pilgrimage points in the historic part of the city is the Cathedral of Notre-Dame. Although its construction began in 1277, it remains technically unfinished — the second tower was never completed. Today, this gives the cathedral its own unique charm, enhanced each evening by a light show that starts at 9:00 p.m.
If you visit the cathedral during the day, be sure to step inside to see the famous astronomical clock. It not only shows the current time but also displays the positions of the planets, zodiac signs, and more. Every hour, small figurines emerge to perform a mechanical show. Climbing to the top of the cathedral offers a magnificent view of the city.
No description of Strasbourg’s attractions would be complete without mentioning the “Petite France” district, located along the canal. The area got its name during German rule due to the abundance of houses that once offered the services of courtesans.
Looking at a Strasbourg map of attractions, you’ll find that the city’s central square is Place Kléber. In the center stands a statue of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber, after whom the square was named. Interestingly, his remains are buried beneath it.
Another notable square is named after the first printer who lived in the city for many years — Gutenberg. A monument to this prominent figure, claimed by both the French and Germans as “their own,” stands there as well.
Beyond the historic center, it’s worth exploring the Neustadt district — its name meaning “New Town” in German. The area began to develop shortly after the end of the Franco-Prussian War. The Rhine Palace, built as a royal residence, became a perfect example of Prussian architecture. Also of note are the buildings of the National Theatre and the National University Library.
Among Strasbourg’s most important attractions is the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, founded in 1973. It is the largest of its kind in France and houses works from various artistic movements created from 1870 to the present day.
