Winter In Strasbourg Travel Guide: Things To Do In Strasbourg In Winter
Spending winter in Strasbourg was one of the best decisions we had due to its Christmas vibe, snowfall, and twinkly lights.
But between the freezing temperatures, early sunsets, and loads of attractions closed for the season, the reality can be downright disappointing if you’re not prepared.
We hate to see you waste your trip shivering miserably with nothing to do.
So, we put together this winter travel guide packed with local tips to make your Strasbourg getaway enjoyable even in the colder months.
This guide will fill you in on what the weather is like during the off-season, the best things to do in Strasbourg, the tasty eats you gotta try, how to get around, and cool spots to check out nearby the city.
Weather in Strasbourg During Winter
Strasbourg gets pretty chilly in winter, with an average temperature of around 7.2°C (45°F) and snow showing up from November to February.
It’s even a lot colder than in other places in Europe, like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote.
So, if you’re heading to Strasbourg in the winter, we greatly advise you to pack on the warm layers—a winter coat, hat, gloves, and some waterproof boots to tackle the changing temperatures and possible snow or icy sidewalks.
But the cold doesn’t mean boredom. You can still look into the famous museums and Christmas markets.
We can really say that Strasbourg has that winter charm, no doubt.
How Long Does the Sun Rise in Strasbourg During Winter?
In winter, Strasbourg sees short days and long nights, roughly from November to February.
So, in November, you can get sunlight from 7:40 am to 4:50 pm, about 9 hours in total.
Come December in winter, the sun rises at 8:15 am and calls it a day at 4:35 pm, giving you a mere 8 hours and 15 minutes of sunlight.
But as winter rolls on, the days start stretching out.
In January, the sun starts at 8:15 am and sets at 5 pm. Then, for February, the day starts a bit earlier at 7:40 am, and wraps up at 5:50 pm.
So, if you’re swinging by Strasbourg in winter, expect anywhere between 8 to 10 hours of daylight, depending on when you land.
Does It Rain In Strasbourg During Winter?
Strasbourg in the winter can get a bit soggy, averaging around 43.2mm (1.7in) of precipitation.
November and December are usually the wettest months, with about eight days of rain each month.
Despite many damp days in Strasbourg during winter, we can assure you that its landmarks, museums, and activities still deserve to be checked out.
Just make sure to check out the forecast before heading out and have waterproof shoes and layers to stay warm.
Does It Snow in Strasbourg?
Expect some snow between November and February – not a blizzard, just slight snowy days a month, and we’re talking 20.3mm(0.8in) on average.
If you’re a fan of snow, we strongly advise you to visit Strasbourg in December and January because those months typically experience the highest snowy weather.
Winter Temperature in Strasbourg
Daytime temperatures in Strasbourg hang around 7.2°C (45°F), feeling even colder with the wind.
And nights here are no warmer, dropping to -6.1°C(21°F), especially in January. So, make sure you bring your winter jacket with you.
Month Min Temp (°C) Max Temp (°C) Average Temp Precipitation (mm)
November 2.8°C(37°F) 15°C(59°F) 9.4°C(49°F) 48.3mm(1.9in)
December -6.1°C(21°F) 17.8°C(64°F) 5°C(41°F) 48.3mm(1.9in)
January 1.1°C(34°F) 16.1°C(61°F) 6.7°C(44°F) 40.7mm(1.6in)
February 2.2°C(36°F) 13.9°C(57°F) 7.8°C(46°F) 35.6mm(1.4in)
Best Things To Do In Strasbourg In Winter
Strasbourg takes on a magical character during the winter months.
Though the cold weather may have you bundling up, it also presents opportunities for heartwarming activities and seasonal fun.
Here are the top and fun things to do in Strasbourg in winter:
Explore Famous Landmarks
Though smaller in size, Strasbourg still overflows with culture, architecture, and history just waiting to be seen.
From its UNESCO-listed old town to the stately Cathedral towering over the city, iconic sites give glimpses into Strasbourg’s blend of French and German influences.
Here are some of the most famous landmarks that you shouldn’t miss in Strasbourg in winter:
Take In the Imposing Gothic Architecture of the Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg)
The Strasbourg Cathedral is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Europe.
UNESCO calls it a World Heritage Site, and if you’re into architecture, you should check it out when you’re in the Alsatian capital.
It’s got this massive red stonework, with all these detailed carvings and a really tall spire. We were really in awe of its intricate details when we first saw it up close.
Inside, it’s all Gothic style, with high ceilings held up by stone pillars.
If you want amazing views, climb up the 332 steps to the halfway point of the spire.
The stairs are kind of narrow and twisty, but you get to see the city and countryside as you go up.
We admit our legs were jelly by the time we got to the top, but everything was so worth it!
Just so you know, getting into the cathedral is free, but if you want to check out the view from the spire, it’s €8 for adults and €5 for kids.
You can visit the Cathedral with the following schedule: Every Monday to Saturday, it welcomes visitors from 8:30 am to 11:15 am and from 12:45 pm to 5:45 pm.
But on Sunday, it only opens in the afternoon from 2 pm to 5:15 pm.
Getting there is easy – it’s right in the city center, so you can walk, or there are trams B and F at Alt Winmärik if strolling is not your option.
Visit the European Parliament
The European Parliament in Strasbourg is really impressive. They’ve got these free tours of the place that spill some Euro history.
We greatly advise you to book a spot online to reserve a spot. The tours tend to fill up fast around Christmas, so don’t wait until the last minute like we did!
If you’re planning to hop on over, the Parliament is open from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm.
On Saturdays, their hours are different. They are open from 9:30 am to 12 pm, take a little break, and then kick back in from 1 pm to 5 pm.
Appreciate the Ornate Carvings on the Timber-Framed Kammerzell House
The Kammerzell House in Strasbourg, France, is an old building from 1427.
In winter, it looks pretty awesome with all these carvings on the outside that you usually miss when there are leaves or too many tourists around.
You can usually find these outside carving designs around the windows and doors.
Bundle up, especially after it snows, to see the carvings against the icy white.
Inside, the restaurant keeps the old vibe with wooden designs, which is neat.
It’s not a museum, but you can enjoy the old-school carpentry vibes while having some Alsatian food.
We tried some fish choucroute here, and it totally hit the spot after tromping around in the cold.
If you wanna see it at its best in winter, go late afternoon for a golden glow or in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer people.
The Kammerzell House is just right across the Strasbourg Cathedral. If you’re at Strasbourg-Ville station, Trams D and A can get you there.
See the Vauban Dam
The Vauban Dam in Strasbourg is one of our favorite spots, even in winter.
You can actually check it out when you’re strolling around the Petite France district. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from the main train station, so it’s pretty convenient.
The dam is made from pink Vosges sandstone from way back when and still stands strong, at about 26 meters tall and 120 meters (390 feet) in length.
For some killer photos, you can take a walk along the Ill River for different angles and cool shots of the dam and bridges.
A quick tip: Bundle up and catch the dam all lit up at night for a classic postcard shot.
Hit Up the Ancient St. Thomas Church
You gotta check out Strasbourg’s St. Thomas Church in winter.
It is a Gothic masterpiece from the 16th century and is loaded with detailed stone carvings showing biblical stories.
Feel free to visit the church every day from 10 am to 5 pm. But note that every Sunday, they open their gates late at 1:30 pm.
You’ll find it in the historic city center on Rue Martin Luther. So better catch tram lines A or D if you want to pay a visit.
Visit the Interesting Museums Showcasing History and Culture
Strasbourg has a bunch of museums worth checking out, especially when it’s freezing outside. They’ve got everything from medieval vibes to modern art.
Wrap up warm, and you’ll get a solid dose of Strasbourg’s past and some local flavor.
Witness European Art at the Museum œUvre Notre-Dame
Strasbourg’s Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame spans from the 14th to the 16th century.
When it’s winter and everything’s covered in snow, it’s even more awesome to stroll through the museum. We found it really cozy and peaceful.
It is just located in the old town; you can go for an easy and enjoyable walk to reach it.
They’ve got some legit treasures here, like the original sculpture of the Strasbourg Cathedral.
Stroll further, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by Renaissance tapestries and altarpieces.
So, even when it’s chilly outside, the inside of the Gothic cathedral is lit up like a rainbow through those stained glass windows – a pretty sweet background for checking out European art.
Immerse Yourself in the Rich Culture of Alsace at the Alsatian Museum
Visit the Alsatian Museum in Strasbourg this winter—it’s got over 5000 artifacts that scream classic Alsatian vibes.
You can find plates, jars, pots, furniture, and much more here. Now, for the basic details: it’s €7.50 for adults to get in and free for ages 18 and below.
The place is open every day except Tuesday, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Just a heads up, they strictly enforce that afternoon siesta from 1-2 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
The museum sits pretty in La Petite, France, just a 10-minute ride from the rail station.
And if you’re taking a private car, note that parking’s a bit tight and pricey around here.
Check Out the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Strasbourg is a great spot, especially for art lovers like us.
It’s got some avant-garde and modern art from the 19th and 21st centuries.
The building’s design is pretty slick, and we gotta say it really impressed us.
It is a mix of modern and contemporary styles with bold geometric shapes and big windows that let in a ton of light.
They have collections of paintings and sculptures here from Picasso, Monet, and many more.
And if you feel hungry, don’t worry; there’s a restaurant café on the first floor that will cater to your needs.
You can visit the museum from Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm.
Note that you gotta pay a €7.50 entrance fee if you’re an adult. And just a tip: grab your tickets online to skip the lines.
Take a Guided Tour to See the Top Attractions in the City
Strasbourg is a great destination to visit during the winter months.
Though the days may be short, Strasbourg still shines with holiday spirit and wintery beauty.
The city has loads of attractions to check out if you’re up for a guided tour and some sightseeing. Here are the top tours you don’t want to miss:
Have a Fun Segway Ride Around the City
Don’t miss out on experiencing a fun spin around Strasbourg on a Segway.
Just grab your Segway and helmet, and you’re ready to roll through different parts of the city.
You’ll get to cruise through ‘La Petite France,’ where medieval folks used to fish and mill.
As you zip around on your two wheels, you’ll also get to swing by the German district of Neustadt, where tidy streets are lined with Baroque and Renaissance buildings.
Also, don’t miss out on the Quartier Européen, where those sleek glass office buildings host EU institutions, with the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights.
It’s like the core of Euro politics, law, and human rights action in the city.
We found it fascinating to ride through it and imagine all the political action happening inside.
So, if you want to experience all of this, make sure to grab your ticket online now, as they tend to sell out fast.
> Get This Euro Guided Tour by Segway
Go On a Biking Tour
Hop on a bike and pedal your way through the enchanting streets of Strasbourg, taking in the city’s medieval charm and European energy.
You’ll get to zip through Petite France, the iconic Notre Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral, the European Parliament, the Opera House on Place Broglie, and many more.
Along the way, there are local bakeries and cafés that you can hit up.
Make sure to grab some tasty local treats to keep your energy levels up for the next destination.
> Experience Strasbourg City Center Guided Bike Tour with a Local
Just a heads up, this bike tour isn’t available during the Christmas season. But no worries, you can still try this in other winter months.
Hunt for Iconic Landmarks on Your Own Adventure
Are you looking for a fun way to explore Strasbourg? Take a self-guided scavenger hunt city tour.
This scavenger hunt is your ticket to 10 awesome spots in Strasbourg, including Strasbourg Cathedral, Place Gutenberg, Saint-Thomas Church, and Alsatian Museum.
What we really love about this tour is that there are riddles for each spot that need to be solved.
You don’t have to prepare for entrance fees for each spot – all the puzzles are just outside.
If you’re planning to try this tour, we greatly advise you to wear comfy shoes and have a charged phone with internet.
And, of course, feel free to pause whenever you want to take pictures or munch on snacks.
> Get Your Hands on the Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt City Tour
You’ll just need to download the World City Trail app from the Appstore or Playstore using your booking reference, and you’re good to go.
Find Fun Activities to Stay Entertained
Strasbourg attracts visitors year-round with its beautiful canals, architecture, and culture.
Yet, when winter hits with its short days and chilly vibes, keeping busy can be a bit of a task.
No worries, though – this old city’s got a bunch of activities to keep you amused. Check out these ideas to beat the winter blues and have a blast in Strasbourg:
Learn About Astronomy at the Strasbourg Planetarium
If you’re into checking out cool space stuff during the winter, the Strasbourg Planetarium is where it’s at.
They’ve got these 360-degree astronomy shows all inside this decent-sized domed theater.
The entrance fee is not that expensive, starting at €8 for grown-ups and €6 for kids.
We definitely recommend booking your tickets early because because space is limited.
Just a heads up, if you’re planning to swing by, the place follows a schedule during the week.
On Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, it’s a no-go—closed for business.
Wednesdays, though, start at 8:45 am and wrap up at 6:15 pm, but with a break from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.
The weekend vibe starts on Saturday from 1:30 pm to 6:15 pm.
Sundays, they’re open in the morning from 10:30 am to 12:15 pm and back in action from 1:30 to 6:15 pm.
To get there, take the tram to Winston Churchill stop, and you’re gonna stroll for about 16 minutes to reach the planetarium.
Stroll Through The Two Shores Garden
The Two Shores Garden in Strasbourg is a perfect spot for a stroll, connecting France and Germany over the Rhine.
It was one of our favorite places in Strasbourg. If you just want a chill and peaceful walk on winter days, this is the place for you.
Despite the cold here, there’s some cool stuff to see.
You can check out views of the Rhine and the German town of Kehl from one side and snap pics of Strasbourg’s historic center from the modern footbridge that screams European unity.
It’s open year-round, and you can enter for free.
Tips for a solid winter visit: Bundle up – gloves, hat, scarf, and a winter coat. Throw on some sturdy waterproof shoes because it might get icy or muddy.
You can even bring a hot drink and snacks to keep warm during your stroll.
Experience Popular Seasonal Activities to Embrace the Winter Weather
When it gets chilly in Strasbourg in the winter, it’s so easy to just cozy up indoors.
But embracing the winter vibes and stepping outside for some seasonal fun can undoubtedly lift your mood.
Strasbourg’s got you covered with loads of fun ways to make the most out of those winter days and nights.
Here are some of the go-to things to do in Strasbourg during the winter:
Embrace the Festive Spirit of the Season in the Christmas Markets
Don’t miss out on the Christmas markets in Strasbourg in winter – a tradition since 1570.
They’re around the big Strasbourg Cathedral, turning the old part of the city into a Christmas village with over 300 wooden stalls.
You can walk around here and grab some cool handicrafts, decorations, and gifts from the market stalls.
You can even munch on their local treats like hot pretzels, baguettes, and sugared crêpes.
Those hot pretzels truly hit the spot for us on a chilly December night.
And when it gets dark, the whole place lights up with fairy lights, and there’s a massive Christmas tree on Place Kléber that you don’t wanna miss.
Entrance to the Strasbourg Christmas markets is free, but some special events might need a small fee.
The markets are usually open from 11:30 am to 9 pm daily, with some stalls staying open later on Fridays and weekdays.
> Christmas Markets Walking Tour with Mulled Wine
Ice skating at Patinoire Iceberg
Patinoire Iceberg in Strasbourg is an indoor ice skating rink that’s been around since 2005. It’s got this NHL-sized rink with seating for over 2,000.
No doubt that this is our favorite winter activity in Strasbourg. Admission starts at €5.80 for adults.
Don’t worry if you don’t have skates; they’ve got rentals, and little kids can use these seal things for balance.
Also, no need to book ahead; just grab your tickets when you get there. Pro tip: weekends get pretty busy, so try to roll in early.
Winter Season In Strasbourg
Winter in Strasbourg brings cold temperatures and festive charm to the city.
From November to February, highs average around 7.2°C (45°F), and lows can dip below freezing.
Though the days are short during winter, there are still many special events to look forward to.
Strasbourg in November
In November, Strasbourg has cooler temperatures, hovering around 15°C(59°F) highs and 2.8°C(37°F) lows.
It might not be beach weather, but it’s a pretty good time to hit up this Alsatian city, especially with a bunch of events going on.
Here’s the lowdown on Strasbourg’s November scene:
Jazzdor-Strasbourg
Jazz lovers, November is your month, as the Jazzdor festival takes over the city for around two weeks of smooth jazz vibes starting in mid-November.
From folk songs to funky jams, it offers a mix of modern jazz styles and world music influences.
You’ll surely be in awe of the diverse participation of musicians from different countries, including Switzerland, Indonesia, Japan, Portugal, Germany, and many more.
You can catch the event this year in the University of Strasbourg’s new Planetarium, with ticket prices starting at €10 per concert.
Opening of Christmas Markets
The Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik) is the highlight for any tourists visiting Strasbourg in winter.
It runs from late November to December, so make sure not to miss this one.
You can grab Christmas ornaments, nutcrackers, glassware, and Alsatian crafts here.
We even brought some mulled wine and Christmas biscuits to enjoy as we strolled through the chalets – they were the perfect delights to have.
Strasbourg in December
December in Strasbourg is a bit on the chilly side, with temperatures around -6.1°C(21°F) to 17.8°C(64°F). But don’t let that stop you from feeling the festive vibes!
These are the special events in December that you should look out for:
Christmas Tree Lighting Day
One of the most anticipated events in Strasbourg in winter is the Christmas Tree Lighting Day. You can witness this event in Place Kléber.
It’s like a big gathering where folks are just hanging out, waiting for the city’s massive Christmas tree to light up the scene.
And here’s the bonus – Place Kléber is one of the venues for Christmas markets in Strasbourg.
So, make sure to indulge in their hot wines, Christmas biscuits, and snacks.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
New Year’s Eve is a big deal in Strasbourg.
Make sure to stay until midnight, especially at Place Kléber, because you’ll get to see a good view of the fireworks there.
It’s a chilly scene, though, but we can really say that celebrating our New Year with the lively locals of Strasbourg was truly memorable for us.
Strasbourg in January
In January, Strasbourg kinda shifts from its festive vibe to a more relaxing but still charming scene.
The big holiday crowds are gone, giving the city a quieter vibe. But don’t let that fool you; there’s still a chill ambiance with some cool events welcoming the new year.
One thing to check out is the New Year’s concerts at Saint-Matthieu church, L’Aronde in Riedisheim, and Palais de la Musique et des Congrès.
Ticket prices range from €6 to €68. You’ll get the chance to witness the Mulhouse Symphony Orchestra, George Gershwin, and many more.
Strasbourg in February
February weather in Strasbourg is dealing with chilly but sunny winter vibes, hitting around 7.8°C(46°F).
Some spots might be closed, but it’s the perfect time to experience Strasbourg’s charm minus the summer crowd hustle.
And there’s a bunch of activities you can do around the city.
You can munch on the city’s delights, go ice skating, and watch some movies.
Strasbourg’s compact center makes strolling around easy, even on colder days.
What To Eat In Strasbourg In Winter
Traditional Alsatian Cuisine
Strasbourg sits in Alsace, where the vibes are a cool mix of French and German flavors. In the winter, you can dig into some legit Alsatian dishes.
Some classic Alsatian foods to enjoy in the winter months include:
Choucroute Garnie
The Choucroute Garnie is a heap of steamed cabbage with sausages, ham, and pork, bringing the Alsatian flavors to life.
We paired ours with bold flavors like mustard, and it was perfect. You can try this dish at Le Tire Bouchon, a winstub that nails the Choucroute taste.
Flammekueche
Flammekueche is one of the famous foods in Strasbourg. It is a thin-crust flatbread loaded with crème fraiche, onions, and bacon.
We highly recommend trying Au Vieux Strasbourg – it is the best Flammekueche for us.
Baeckeoffe
A Baeckeoffe is a French dish that you don’t wanna miss out on. It is a slow-baked casserole party of potatoes, onions, mutton, beef, and pork.
This hearty stew is a perfect comfort food to have on a chilly day.
Sweet Treats And Desserts
In between all of the hearty, meaty dishes, don’t forget to save room for dessert!
Strasbourg has some excellent bakeries and chocolatiers. Some sweet specialties include:
Pain d’épices
Pain d’épices is a spiced gingerbread cake from Alsace, flavored with honey and spices like cinnamon and clove and often studded with nuts or dried fruit.
It’s available year-round, but especially nice around Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Head to Mireille Oster Pain d’Epices for some top-notch loaves; it is just near St. Thomas Church.
Kougelhopf
Kougelhopf, the brioche-like yeast cake, is another winner for winter. It comes with a sweet twist – a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Many cafes and bakeries in the city have Kougelhopf by the slice, but the best for us is from La Maison du Kougelhopf – Pâtisserie Buhler.
Local Specialty Drinks
To wash it all down, warm up with the local sips.
Mulled wine
Mulled wine, or Vin chaud, is a must during the Christmas markets. Spiced up with cinnamon and citrus, it’s the drink of the season.
Sipping Vin Chaud while browsing the market stalls is an essential Strasbourg winter tradition.
Warm Apple Juice
When you’re walking around the Strasbourg Christmas markets and need a little break from all the mulled wine, try ordering a cup of apple juice.
It’s literally just warm, freshly pressed apple juice, but somehow, it hits the spot perfectly on a cold day.
You’ll see little stands all over the markets, offering some cozy Sucre de Pomme Chaud (aka hot apple juice).
We like to get ours from the stand at the Place Broglie market – they press the apples right there while you wait!
Getting Around Strasbourg in Winter
When visiting Strasbourg in winter, you may initially worry that the cold, snowy weather will make getting around difficult.
However, this French city has a variety of convenient, affordable, and clever transportation methods to explore its winding streets and lively Christmas markets.
Here are some of the best ways to get around Strasbourg in the winter:
Go On a Public Transportation
Strasbourg has an awesome public transportation system that makes getting around so easy for you, even in the freezing winter months.
The city’s super modern tram system has six lines that go all over Strasbourg and take you to most big sites and neighborhoods.
Trams come all the time, and they’re pretty cheap, too – a great way to explore. Strasbourg also has tons of buses, with over 20 local lines.
Take a Stroll
Even if it’s cold out from December through February, Strasbourg’s city center is compact enough for you to explore on foot.
Many top attractions like the impressive Strasbourg Cathedral, cute Petite France quarter, Covered Bridges, and Old Town are totally walkable.
Just make sure to wear layers of clothes and have umbrellas or rain gear ready before you head out.
Bike Through the City
Biking is how you can get around Strasbourg all year, winter included!
The city has an awesome bike share system called Vélhop, where you can easily rent bikes 24/7.
There are great, clear bike paths along the Ill River and canal, too, perfect for some exercise or fun rides.
Or you can join bike tours that even operate in winter, taking you to top attractions.
Biking indeed lets you enjoy awesome river views and see architecture you can’t spot in other ways.
Hail a Taxi
If the cold becomes too much to bear, taxis offer quick and direct transportation options.
Taxis line up at the train station and airport, with metered rates averaging around €0.75 to €1.07 per kilometer.
Just remember to bundle up whenever you head out.
Day Trips From Strasbourg in Winter
Don’t let the coldness of France stop you from taking day trips in the Alsace region.
Here are some day trips from Strasbourg that you don’t wanna miss:
Day Trip to Colmar
Colmar, located in Alsace, France, makes for a great day trip from Strasbourg.
It’s about a 30-minute train ride or approximately 50 minutes by car on the A35 toll highway.
The Old Town in Colmar is pretty neat, with these colorful buildings like the Customs House and Pfister House.
We enjoyed wandering the cobblestone streets and snapping pictures of all the pretty facades.
Don’t miss trying the local grub like choucroute and Alsatian wine there.
There are a couple of museums, too, like the Unterlinden Museum showing off the Isenheim Altarpiece, and others like Bartholdi and Toy Museums, if you’re into that.
Also, Little Venice, with its canals, is worth checking out.
It was very peaceful strolling along those canals, and it made us feel like we got a taste of Italy and France combined.
If you’re thinking of going to Colmar in winter, watch out for the weather – it can get pretty cold and wet.
So, pack some warm layers and waterproof gear. And always double-check if any attractions are closed during the season.
On the upside, winter means fewer people. So, despite the cold, we had the streets almost to ourselves, which was great for photos.
Best Of Alsace Historical Day Trip
If you really want to learn the history of the Alsace region, this trip is the one for you.
You’ll get to see the architecture and learn some stories about Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle in Orschwiller.
And, of course, you can’t miss out on the famous Alsace Wine Route.
This 180 km scenic road passes through charming villages and lush vineyards. You’ll surely be in awe when you see the views.
Make sure to stop at some family-run wineries along the way to try out their Rieslings and Sylvaner—you’ll see why Alsace wine has such devoted fans.
You will also get to wander around Kaysersberg, which we think might be the prettiest medieval town.
Make your way up to the old fortified bridge for some awesome views of the river.
The German influence in the architecture here is striking, too—don’t miss the houses and churches, especially the Church of the Holy Cross.
Throughout the tour, the guide chats in French, but don’t stress – they’ve got audioguides in different languages to make sure you catch all the details.
> From Strasbourg: Best Of Alsace Historical Day Trip
Day Trip to Nancy
One of the day trips from Strasbourg that you shouldn’t miss is the trip to Nancy, which is only about 155 km away.
You can hop on a train, and in around 1.5 hours, you’re there. Or, if you prefer the road, the A4 highway gets you there in over 2 hours.
The standout here is Place Stanislas, a UNESCO heritage site surrounded by well-kept century buildings.
They also have Museums like Musee des Beaux-Arts and Musee de l’Ecole de Nancy, which can give you a peek into the artsy side of the city.
Word of advice for winter visits: dress warm, pack an umbrella, and stash some snacks.
Always double-check museums’ schedules because they might close early during the off-season.
For a boss view, stick around until late afternoon or early evening. We witnessed how the Place Stanislas lit up, and it was all worth it.
Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip
Are you up for a chill day trip along the Alsace wine route and feel the medieval vibes of the villages?
Throughout the trip, you’ll be cruising in a sweet panoramic coach, giving you awesome views of the landscapes along the wine route.
Some medieval places you’ll get to visit are Bergheim, Ribeauvillé, Hunawihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.
Make sure to snag some local stuff in each spot for souvenirs.
And don’t miss the chance to get a taste of some traditional Alsatian wines when you hit up a local winemaker.
As lovers of wine, we were really impressed by the taste of it.
> From Strasbourg: Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip
Day Trip to Baden-Baden
Taking a day trip from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden is easy, just about 58km away – a quick under-an-hour ride by car or train.
Once there, stroll down Lichtentaler Allee, a tree-lined boulevard that leads you to the old town.
We loved winding down the park, taking in the fresh air and lovely scenery.
Check out the Kurhaus casino, Caracalla Therme spa, and the historic center with its century villas. The Friedrichsbad spa is worth a visit, too.
After witnessing the culture and having some relaxing time, take a wander down Gernsbacher Strasse and Sophienstrasse for some fashion finds, antiques, and delicious delights.
Now, if you’re planning a winter escape, double-check spa access, as some outdoor spots might be off-limits during winter.
And make sure you’re on your way back before it gets dark, considering any possible delays.
Are You Ready to Plan Your Strasbourg Winter Getaway?
Despite the chilly weather, Strasbourg is still an enchanting winter destination.
The city’s Christmas markets light up the old streets with holiday vibes, and you can check out museums and tours that mix French and German stuff.
Some places might shut down for winter, but there’s still stuff to do, like ice skating and astronomy shows.
They even serve up some hearty Alsatian dishes like flammekueche and choucroute garnie to keep you warm, plus hot spiced wine.
It’s also easy to get around the city; you can either take a walk or use public transport.
Additionally, there are some day trips you can take near Strasbourg for more winter fun.
So, throw on your warmest gear and go make some memories surrounded by festive lights.
