Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the historic capital of Alsace and one of the European capitals (seat of the European Parliament, Council of Europe, European Court of Human Rights). With 290,000 inner inhabitants (800,000 in the cross-border metropolitan area with Kehl in Germany), it's France's 7th city and one of the most beautiful in the country. Its heritage combines French and German influences (Strasbourg alternated between the two countries through wars) — a rich and complex cultural identity.

The Grande-Île (historic centre surrounded by branches of the Ill, UNESCO since 1988) houses the essentials. The Strasbourg Notre-Dame Cathedral (12th-15th centuries, Gothic masterpiece, 142 m high — the world's tallest building from 1647 to 1874, and remained the tallest medieval church to this day) is the city's absolute icon. Don't miss the astronomical clock (19th-century mechanism, apostles' parade daily at 12:30 pm, €3) and the panoramic platform (332 steps, €5, view of the German Black Forest on clear days).

The Petite France (former tanners', millers' and fishermen's district, the most picturesque of the Grande-Île) unfolds its 16th-17th century half-timbered houses along the Ill canals. It's probably the most photographed district in Alsace. The Covered Bridges (4 medieval 13th-century towers) and the Vauban Dam (free panoramic terrace over Petite France) complete the walk. The Rohan Palace (18th-century episcopal palace) houses 3 museums (Fine Arts, Archaeological, Decorative Arts) worth visiting. The Alsatian Museum (traditional Alsatian life in 3 half-timbered houses) is essential to understand Alsatian identity.

The Neustadt (Wilhelminian extension 1880-1918, UNESCO since 2017) is an exceptional urban ensemble of Rhenish and bourgeois architecture (Strasbourg was German from 1871 to 1918 then from 1940 to 1944). Place de la République (formerly Kaiserplatz, with its monumental ensemble), University Palace, National and University Library, Aubette (SS headquarters during the war, now a restaurant). European Parliament and Council of Europe can be visited for free (booking advised).

The Christmas markets make Strasbourg in December a unique destination in the world. "Capital of Christmas since 1570" (Strasbourg's Christmas market is the oldest documented in Europe). 11 markets spread across the city (historic Place Broglie, Place Kléber with the giant tree, cathedral square, Place Gutenberg, Place du Marché aux Poissons, Place Saint-Thomas...). 3 million visitors over 5 weeks (late November to 24 December). Unique atmosphere, to experience at least once in your life.