Strasbourg: A Guide to My Favorite Spots

Hey everyone! This week's post is going to have to be a little bit shorter. I've just started school and am feeling quite a bit of stress and pressure at the moment so I don't exactly have time to sit and write for two or three hours. However, I want to make sure I still get something out so you still have some content this week and hopefully next week I'll have more time. With that being said, here's a guide to a few of my favorite spots & restaurants in Strasbourg that you simply have to visit if you're here.

1. Ponton des Bateliers

Okay so the bridge is not the actual destination but it's the closest landmark I can use to explain the exact place. My favorite place to go to in Strasbourg, especially to sit and eat at, is by the river that runs under Ponton des Bateliers. This river is called L'Ill and it surrounds most of the island that is considered "main Strasbourg". On the side of the bridge that is off the island, there is a port area at the bottom near the river. It's like a big wooden board that you will see many people sitting on to eat. I would advise not to go there, but instead turn left before you reach the bridge and walk straight until you see a path right that leads down to the river's other side. The advantages of this side are that there are less people, you're in the shade (especially helpful during our hot summers) and finally, the view is much better. This way, we are facing the traditional Strasbourg colored houses and it's truly a cool experience to sit by the riverside and watch the city while you eat. (If you have trouble finding this area, you can ask me and maybe I can show you how to get there ;)

So, in this picture you can see the little wooden area I was talking about on the right side (and behind them the traditional houses). On the left in between the little docking areas (with the flowers on them) is where I suggest you go.

2. Binchstub Broglie

Strasbourg is known for its tarte flambé (also called "flammekueche"), a pizza sort of food that consists of a thin, crunchy "crust" topped with a cream sauce and traditionally some "lardons" (pieces of bacon). It's a uniquely Alsacien recipe (Alsace is the region in which Strasbourg is located). Anyway, Binchstub Broglie is a little restaurant that specializes in making tarte flambés and is located down a little side street off of Place Broglie. Therefore, it is smaller and the vibe is much cuter and more authentic. If you're looking for good tarte flambé on the island, I would definitely recommend coming here.

An image of the tarte flambés from Binchstub Broglie

3. Rue du Jeu-des-Enfants

This street, located just off the side of Homme de Fer (the central tram station near Place Kleber) is definitely a fun little walk you have to take when visiting Strasbourg. It's a street decorated by the locals and it's very fun and colorful. You'll recognize it by the painted cobblestones and unique chandeliers hanging overhead. Lined with shops and small restaurants, it's a cute are that is worth a stroll if you're a tourist. You might also find a little shop that will surprise you!

Unfortunately, this was the best photo I could find. It shows the circular structure that is above Homme de Fer (so it's not showing us down the street, but out of it) however we can see the painted cobblestones that will lead you in the right direction...

4. Orangerie

Kind of a given, but some people may overlook the excitement that is the Orangerie. A few minutes off the island, it's a humongous park that you should definitely visit. Inside is a lake, restaurants, parks, a small zoo, ice cream stops, gazebos, statues, gardens and more! It's truly a unique place to go and there are many ways to enjoy your day there. Whether you take a canoe out on the lake or stop to watch the storks nesting on top of the big house in the gardens, it's something that has a uniquely Strasbourg feel to it. I would encourage you to walk or bike to the Orangerie and spend some time exploring! Just don't get lost!

Pretty sure I put this photo in another post but it truly shows the beauty of the Orangerie.

5. Boulangerie Patisserie Hanss

This bakery is located just off the island by my old school, Lucie Berger. Now, after three years here, I can pretty conclusively say that this place has the absolute best pain au chocolats in Strasbourg! If you don't know, a pain au chocolat (pronounced pahn-o-sho-co-la) is like a croissant but filled with little strips of dark chocolate, and they are divine! This place tops them with a fine glaze. Worth a visit if you're here and even better if you can catch them while they're warm and fresh!

The outside of the bakery.

6. Place de la République

Finally, while it may seem like a touristy destination (and it kinda is), it's still worth a visit to this beautiful little place/park. Easily one of the most beautiful places in Strasbourg (especially in the spring!). There are huge (huge!) trees placed on each of the grass areas and carefully cared-for flower arrangements. The buildings on either side are beautiful and you can even see the cathedral from the other side. The statue in the middle is also particular as it is a statue of a mother holding her two sons, one German and one French, that died fighting each other in the war. I would advise you to go in the warmer months and pack a picnic. Just watch out for wasps!

I have many pictures of Republique but I do love this one, showcasing the beautiful building, the flowers and the glory that is fall in Republique. (I wish I had a picture of the spring though because the pink flowers are all over the trees and it's beautiful!)

Anyway, I hope you've enjoyed my roundup of my favorite places in Strasbourg! Hopefully you will get the chance to visit them and enjoy them as much as I do. I'll do my best at getting a longer post out next week, but my schedule is pretty full and I'm not sure yet when I'll have time (something will be posted, though). Thank you for your support and have a great week!

Loreleixx