A 24-hour trip to a new city may sound like nonsense but, from my personal experience, it’s the kind of journey that I enjoy the most.

Why?

Because you know that your time is limited and interestingly enough, we humans only seem to cherish the moment when we know that it won’t last forever.

Strasbourg is one of those cities that look straight out of a fairy tale. Grimm’s fairy tales, I’d say. The magical streets and houses will remind you that it’s located only 15 minutes from Germany. The perfect mix of two cultures and the city’s stunning natural beauty will leave you speechless.

I had no more than 24 hours to explore some of its jaw-dropping landscapes and cultural landmarks. The result? I couldn’t have been more thrilled and that’s why I decided to share my journey with you.

Sleep is for the weak, so let’s see what this city has to offer! 

Morning

The old town of Strasbourg is best known for its Christmas market. If you didn’t get the chance to visit Strasbourg during the holidays like me, don’t worry, the magic is still there. The cold as well. No wonder why French people say, ‘En avril ne te découvre pas d’un fil‘ (Till April’s dead, change not a thread).

Located on the banks of the Rhine River, Strasbourg has the second-largest river port in France after Paris. The reflection of the landscape is astonishing.

A typical French brunch is a must in Strasbourg. I would say that Strasbourg is one of the most vegan-friendly cities in France, although its traditional dishes are mostly meat-based.

Don’t forget to visit one of the oldest gothic cathedrals in France, Notre-Dame de Strasbourg! Gothic architecture is an extremely important part of French history and architecture. You’ll find millions of Notre Dame cathedrals around France, but each one is unique, and the one in Strasbourg has some of the most beautiful gothic details ever created.

Afternoon

Nope, the day is not over and the party is about to begin! And yes, you read that right. Germany! The German city of Kehl is located only 15 minutes from Strasbourg. You’ll be amazed at how similar they are, but expect some cultural (and linguistic) shocks as well!

Next stop, European Institutions! You can’t really say that you visited Strasbourg if you didn’t see the European Parliament and the Council of Europe. The range of EU institutions makes Strasbourg one of the most important cities in Europe.

La Petite France is THE place you cannot miss in Strasbourg. Formed by the five arms of the river, little France is the perfect spot to admire the reflection of the colorful Alsatian houses.

Finally, it is time to taste the traditional Alsatian food. My friend had the most typical casserole dish from the region, a mix of vegetables and meat called Baeckeoffe (“baker’s oven” in Alsatian dialect). I was surprised to find a vegan version of Flammekueche (also known as tarte flambée), a specialty of bread dough usually covered with bacon, or in my case, champignons. God, it’s so hard to be a vegan in this country, but not impossible!

What’s better than river landscape reflections of rural houses? River landscape reflections of rural houses AT NIGHT, so don’t miss out!

Last but not least, a concert at La Laiterie in Strasbourg makes the whole trip unforgettable. The city vibes of Strasbourg are a wonderful combination of old, historical, timeless and young, dynamic and alive!

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