A Fairytale Fusion of Cultures

A Brief History

Strasbourg’s identity is defined by its dual French and German heritage. For over a thousand years, control of this strategic Rhine port fluctuated between the two nations, creating a unique hybrid culture found nowhere else in Europe. Founded by the Romans as an imperial outpost, Strasbourg grew into a powerful free city during the Middle Ages and emerged as an early center for printing. It is even where Johannes Gutenberg developed his moveable type technology. Today, its ancient cobblestones stand in perfect harmony with its role as a modern capital of peace, housing the European Parliament.

STRASBOURG, FRANCE. Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy walking through the iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)

Your morning begins with a comfortable, panoramic drive past Strasbourg's modern milestones, including the glass-walled European Parliament and the stately Prussian architecture of the Place de la République. Next, step off the coach for an unhurried, guided walk through La Petite France. You'll marvel at the 16th-century half-timbered tanners' houses leaning over the canals and view the magnificent pink sandstone Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame to marvel at its soaring spire and intricate medieval masonry.

If you prefer an active pace, explore the city on two wheels. You’ll pedal along Strasbourg's extensive network of dedicated bike paths, passing historic waterways, crossing scenic timber bridges, and riding through the beautiful canopy of the Parc de l’Orangerie, a favorite local park famous for its beautiful gardens and resident storks.

Because Strasbourg sits squarely on a cultural border, your taste buds get the absolute best of both worlds. The region's defining culinary staple is Tarte Flambée (or Flammekueche in Alsatian), a razor-thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, thinly sliced onions, and smoky bacon lardons.

My Insider Tip: Skip the busy, large tourist cafes directly facing the cathedral plaza. Instead, wander just two or three alleys away into a cozy, timber-lined Winstub (a traditional Alsatian wine tavern). Order a fresh, piping-hot Tarte Flambée to share and pair it with a glass of local Alsatian Riesling or aromatic Gewürztraminer. The crisp, clean acidity of the local white wine balances the rich cream of the flatbread perfectly; an effortless masterclass in Franco-German harmony you can taste.