Start your tour at Place Kléber, Strasbourg’s bustling central square, surrounded by elegant half-timbered buildings and the statue of Jean-Baptiste Kléber. Admire the lively atmosphere and the nearby Aubette, a neoclassical building with a modernist interior. From here, stroll south along Rue des Grandes Arcades, a charming street lined with shops and cafés, capturing Strasbourg’s blend of French and Alsatian charm.
After about 10 minutes, stop at Maison Kammerzell (16 Place de la Cathédrale), a 15th-century half-timbered gem with a renowned restaurant. Enjoy a quick lunch of tarte flambée (Alsatian flatbread with cream, onions, and bacon) or choucroute garnie, affordable for its historic setting, no reservations needed for the brasserie section, but arrive early to avoid crowds. The carved wood interiors evoke a medieval Alsatian scene.
Continue south to Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, a Gothic masterpiece with its intricate pink sandstone façade and astronomical clock. Marvel at its soaring spire and, if time allows, pop in for a quick look at the stained-glass windows (free entry) or climb the tower for a 20-minute panoramic view (small fee).
Head west into La Petite France, Strasbourg’s picturesque quarter, with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses along the Ill River. Wander along Quai de la Petite France, passing the iconic Ponts Couverts (covered bridges) and their medieval towers. Stop at Le Clou (3 Rue du Chaudron), a cosy, no-reservations winstub (Alsatian tavern) for a glass of Riesling or a quick flammekueche, soaking in the neighbourhood’s storybook charm.
Loop north to Place Gutenberg, a charming square with a statue of the printing pioneer. Nearby, explore Rue des Tonneliers, a lively street with Alsatian shops selling local crafts and wines. For a sweet treat, visit Pâtisserie Christian (12 Rue de l’Outre), a beloved bakery near the cathedral, for a coffee or hot chocolate with a kouglof (almond-studded cake), no bookings needed, but arrive promptly to enjoy its classic vibe.
Continue east to Place de la République, a grand square with neo-Renaissance buildings like the Palais du Rhin. Stroll through the adjacent Jardin de l’Orangerie, a serene park, for a quick moment of calm. If time allows, pop into the Musée Alsacien (23-25 Quai Saint-Nicolas) for a 20-minute glimpse of Alsatian culture, with its collection of folk art and furnishings (small fee).
End your tour at Quai des Bateliers, a scenic riverside promenade with views of the cathedral and half-timbered houses. For a final treat, visit Au Crocodile (10 Rue de l’Outre, café section) for a glass of Crémant d’Alsace or a slice of tarte aux mirabelles, or relax at Café Brant (11 Place Kléber), a historic spot, sipping coffee while watching Strasbourg’s vibrant street life unfold.This 3-4 km route captures Strasbourg’s Alsatian heritage, culinary delights, and Gothic splendour, perfect for a four-hour stroll. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets of La Petite France and bring a light jacket for Strasbourg’s often cool, breezy weather
