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Strasbourg is perhaps best known as being home to one of The European Parliament’s two separate locations. Some of the EU’s most esteemed politicians meet at Strasbourg’s official seat of European Parliament for at least twelve sessions each calendar year. In just under one week several second year journalism students of Glasgow Clyde College will embark on the French city’s European Parliament to soak in the frantic goings on of the establishment and meet with a handful of MEPs.
Yet despite the ancient city being most renowned for their role in the EU this is a city with much more on offer. Here are five things to do in Strasbourg to let your hair down after a long hard day at parliament:
Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral
Address: 23 Place de la Cathedrale
Entry: Free
Once the world’s tallest building (between 1647 – 1874) Strasbourg’s famous 466 feet tall Cathedral began construction in the year 1015. The Gothic styled Roman Catholic Church is the cities most popular midday attraction. At 12:30pm each day crowds flock to see the church’s astronomical clock. At the same time every afternoon, barring Sundays, various characters parade in front of a depiction of death to represent the different stages of life. While entry to the cathedral is free of charge for just eight Euros you can gain access to “the platform”. Ascending up 332 steps you will reach the church’s rooftop which offers stunning views of the city and, weather permitting, a peek across the Rhine River into neighbouring Germany.
La Petite France
Address: Petite-France
Entry: Free
“Instagram” heaven. This small island neighbourhood within the city of Strasbourg, not far from the train station, is one of the most picturesque sights in the local area. Surrounded by cobblestone streets, 16th century buildings and numerous bars and restaurants “Little France” is a top tourist spot and a must see for anyone visiting the city. Surrounded by the cities River Ill the historical buildings are an influencers dream.
Parc de l’Orangerie
Address: 4 Parc de l’Orangerie
Entry: Free
Parc de l’Orangerie (The Orangerie Park) is a popular location amongst locals and tourists. Strasbourg’s answer to New York City’s Central Park, the Orangerie Park has several children’s play areas, a skatepark and even a miniature zoo all free of charge. The Orangerie Park is a great tourist spot to visit on a budget with plenty of amenities on offer. If you do have some change to spend however why not grab yourself an ice-cream from the stand? Or test your skills by renting a canoe on the lake?
Place Gutenberg
Address: 33 Rue des Serruriers
Entry: Free
Not far from the famous city cathedral Place Gutenberg or Gutenberg Square is the heart and soul of medieval Strasbourg. Surrounded by scores of restaurants and bars it is a must see for tourists and really is the focal point of the city. A statue of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of Europe’s first printing press, sculpted in 1840 consumes a little less space in the square than the popular carousel.
Stade de la Meinau
Address: 12 Rue de L’Extenwoerth
Entry: Varies from 15 – 35 Euros
Home to RC Strasbourg of French football’s top flight the Stade de la Meinau has played host to World Cup and European Championship matches. Undoubtedly the greatest tourist attraction of the city when footballing giants PSG come to town. The hottest tickets on offer are difficult to come by when World Cup winner Lionel Messi visits the stadium once a year. Strasbourg currently sit one point away from safety in the league table and the possibility of relegation could have a significant impact on revenue at both the club and the city.
