Strasbourg: The City of Exchange and Culture

Strasbourg, capital of the Grand Est region, is a city rich in history, culture and architecture, known for its world heritage city center and its role in Franco-German reconciliation. The city is the official seat of the European Parliament and hosts European institutions dependent on the Council of Europe.

History and identity

Strasbourg has been marked by different Germanic, then German and French, administrations. Its rich and tormented history has left a remarkable architectural heritage, with unique French and Germanic cultural influences. It is the official seat of the European Parliament and hosts European institutions dependent on the Council of Europe.

What to see

La Grande Île, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, includes Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Petite France district; the perimeter was extended to part of Neustadt in 2017. Strasbourg hosts the institutions of the Council of Europe and is the official seat of the European Parliament for its plenary sessions.

Understanding the place

To visit Strasbourg, check current access to historical and cultural places. Plan your visit by visiting the World Heritage city center and the seat of the European Parliament.

Where to stay

A hotel on the Big Island or near the center makes it easier to visit the cathedral and Petite France on foot. The Neustadt offers another base for exploring heritage and reaching the European Quarter; check distances and transportation before booking.

Prepare for the visit

Timetables, access conditions and transport may change. Consult the official pages linked from the source before the trip, protect the heritage and leave the entrances to the houses free. Source in local language.