Strasbourg, France Weekend Guide — Eva Jorgensen / Travel, Art & Design in France & the American West

Hello Friends,

Strasbourg is a lovely place complete with canals, half-timbered houses, and a grand cathedral. Somehow this French city is often overlooked by travelers (other than the maybe the markets at Christmas). But it’s absolutely worth a visit! We spent a weekend here with our two kids and had such a wonderful time, I can’t wait to go back. Here are the fantastic places we visited and loved:

Hint: click the links below for a little virtual tour of the city.

Boat ride on the Ill River. As touristy as they are, I am a sucker for a boat ride. The kids always love it, too, so I get to relax a little. And in Strasbourg, you get to see all the storybook half timbered houses as you glide along.
Porcus. For a plate of regional specialties like sausage and choucroute (sauerkraut) done right. We sat on the breezy back terrace, which was perfect with the little ones. Reservations recommended. (They also have a deli for takeaway.)

Flea Market in and around the place de la Grande Boucherie. Lots of lovely vintage and antique bric a brac to be found at this brocante. We bought each of the kids a vintage wooden egg cup (for eggs and soldiers). Ingrid promptly dropped hers in the water on the aforementioned boat ride. (We still have Lars’ though!) Saturdays only.
Strasbourg Cathedral. The heart of the city. Gorgeous facade carved out of rosy colored sandstone.
La Petite France. We floated through here on the boat ride but wanted to explore further on foot. Red flowers at every window box, charming little bridges and waterways… it doesn’t get more picturesque.
Tadzio. Local independent shop stocked with design-centric gifts, accessories, and clothing.
La Jument Verte. Beautiful space selling antique books and art.
Boulangerie Woerle. A bakery featuring fresh pretzels, red gingham lined shelves, and plenty of local Alsatian atmosphere.