Still wondering what to do in Strasbourg? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Strasbourg and book your hotel today!
Nestled on the French-German border, Strasbourg offers a fascinating blend of cultures and histories. It is particularly recognised as the seat of several European institutions, including the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, making it a significant political centre. The city's Grand Île, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a wealth of historical architecture, centred around the intricate Notre-Dame Cathedral, an impressive example of Gothic design.
Beyond its administrative importance, Strasbourg is known for its picturesque Petite France district, with its half-timbered houses and canals. Visitors can explore the historic quarters, enjoy the regional Alsatian cuisine, and experience a city that adeptly bridges its medieval past with its contemporary European role. The Rohan Palace, housing several museums, further enriches the cultural landscape.
For visitors to Strasbourg, the most common and often preferred area for hotel bookings is undoubtedly the historical city centre, particularly around the Grande Île. This central island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, encapsulates much of the city's character and offers convenient access to many attractions.
Within the Grande Île, you'll find a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels housed in centuries-old buildings to more contemporary options. This area is home to the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the picturesque Petite France quarter, with its half-timbered houses and canals. Guests here are steps away from popular restaurants serving Alsatian specialities, such as those found near Place Gutenberg or along Rue du Maroquin, and various cultural venues, including the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.
Just beyond the Grande Île, the Gare Centrale district offers a practical alternative. This area, centred around Strasbourg-Ville train station, is excellent for those prioritising transport links, with a good selection of modern hotels. While it's a bustling transport hub, it's still only a short walk or tram ride into the historic centre. Accommodation here is often geared towards business travellers but also suits tourists looking for convenience and good value.
For those considering where to stay, Strasbourg is well-served by its public transport network, primarily trams and buses, making it straightforward to navigate the city regardless of your hotel's exact location. The main railway station, Strasbourg-Ville, offers high-speed connections across France and into Germany, and also provides direct shuttles to Strasbourg Airport (SXB). Additionally, for broader international connections, EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg (BSL) is easily reachable by train or shuttle services. Choosing a hotel close to a tram stop or the central station will significantly ease your travels.
To make your budget stretch further when booking accommodation in Strasbourg, timing your visit carefully is key. Hotel prices are generally higher during the Christmas Market season, which runs from late November through December, and also throughout the summer months of June, July, and August. During these periods, demand significantly increases, particularly for hotels close to the Cathedral and Grande Île.
For more affordable rates, consider travelling in the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October, when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are thinner. The low season, from January to March (excluding Valentine's Day weekend), often sees the most competitive pricing, as does November before the Christmas festivities begin. Booking well in advance, especially for popular times, can also secure better deals, and looking slightly outside the immediate city centre can often yield more economical options whilst remaining easily accessible by public transport.