Visit Strasbourg in 2 days
19 must-see POIs, optimized routes and anecdotes.
48 hours in Strasbourg: an itinerary to let yourself be surprised
Are you heading to Strasbourg for 48 hours? Perfect — the city is best explored on foot, discovered by wandering, and it hides little finds at every street corner. This itinerary starts on the bridge that offers a gentle first view and ends at the Aubette, a place rich in history and modernity. I wanted to craft a route that combines architecture, curiosities, lively neighborhoods, and moments to savor.
The first day concentrates on grand façades and institutions: from the calm of the Passerelle des Juifs to imposing monuments like the Palais du Rhin and the Palais de justice. The afternoon plunges you into the historic heart, between remarkable houses and collections of engravings, with a touch of wonder for the astronomical clock.
The second day highlights neighborhood atmospheres: canals, bridges, churches, and the famous Petite France. You will pass by the Maison des tanneurs and the Ponts couverts, before ending your stroll at the Aubette, perfect for a last break. I have slipped practical tips for where to sleep, how to get around, and what to book so you don't waste time.
Throughout the text you will find useful landmarks — ideas for dining, transport options, and extras like Coddy's urban escape games to discover if you enjoy treasure hunt games. The goal: so you can fully enjoy your two days without feeling rushed, keeping breaks to observe and savor the city.
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You will visit the most beautiful points of interest in Strasbourg
Quick summary — Day by day
Day 1 (morning): Start at the Passerelle des Juifs for an easy entry. Continue towards the Opéra national du Rhin, then the Fontaine de Janus, before admiring the Palais du Rhin and the Palais de justice. It’s a morning of architecture and viewpoints.
Day 1 (afternoon): Head to the historic center. The Neue Bau opens curiosity, then the Maison Kammerzell offers an iconic moment. Explore the Cabinet of Prints and Drawings, the Palais Rohan, and end with the Astronomical Clock for a fascinating moment.
Day 2 (morning): Change of scene: start at the Anciennes Glacières, cross the Pont du Faisan, then visit the Saint-Martin Church, the Reformed Church of the Shield and the Saint-Pierre-le-Vieux Church. A quieter morning, rich in places of worship and local history.
Day 2 (afternoon): Dive into Petite France: the Maison des tanneurs, Petite France itself, the Ponts couverts, the lively Place Kléber and to finish the Aubette, perfect to end your stay.
Day 1 - Strasbourg
9 POIs to discoverDay 1 - Morning à Strasbourg
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h30 - Distance : 0.9 km - Walking : 0h12
© Wikimedia Commons
Ancient Coolers
- Strasbourg's former glaciers were once an artificial cold factory with machines from the Quiri company, from 1897 to 1990.
- The buildings have been transformed into a five-star hotel called Le Régent Petite France.
- The factory used liquid gas vaporization to produce cold, similar to the way domestic refrigerators work.
- The factory ceased production on May 31, 1990.
© Wikimedia Commons
Saint-Martin Church
- The Saint-Martin church in Strasbourg was built in 1905 in Neo-Gothic style.
- The church should not be confused with Église Saint-Martin de Strasbourg from the 12th century.
- The community that met at this church moved to Meinau district in 1969 following the construction of a new Baptist church.
- The church is no longer used for worship.
- Since 1974, the building has been home to the Théâtre Jeune Public (Young Public Theatre).
- This information is part of a draft article about a church or cathedral.
© Wikimedia Commons
Pheasant Bridge
- The Faisan Bridge, also known as the Turning Bridge, is a 19th-century hydraulic rotating bridge.⌛ An original wooden bridge from the 14th century was replaced in 1854 by this mobile bridge to allow both pedestrians and cargo ships to pass.
- The bridge was modified into a drawbridge in 1869 and then replaced in 1888 by the current steel and wood model.
- In 1999, the bridge was renovated and improved with a hydraulic operating system.
- Today, this picturesque bridge is one of the tourist attractions of the preserved historical Alsatian neighborhood dating back to the 16th century.
- Built next to the house at 40 rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, the bridge is in proximity to numerous points of interest including the famous Strasbourg Tanners' House.
© Wikimedia Commons
Saint-Pierre-le-Vieux Church
- The Church of Old Saint Peters was first mentioned in 1130 and was a Catholic and Lutheran simultaneum church.
- In the Middle Ages, it was one of nine parish churches of Diocese of Strasbourg.
- The church became the new home of the Abbey of Honau's chapter in 1398, due to flooding in their original location in Rhinau.
- A Latin 'Middle School' was opened at the church in 1535.
- In 1683, Louis XIV ordered that part of the church be returned to the Catholics and a dividing wall be installed.
- The church is home to various notable works of art, including Gothic paintings and wooden Renaissance reliefs, some of which have been classified as Monuments historiques.
© Wikimedia Commons
Reformed Church of the Shield
- The church features a distinctive shield-shaped facade, which is quite unusual and eye-catching.
- Its interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate Gothic architecture.
- The church boasts a collection of bells that chime melodiously, adding to its charm.
- A significant place of worship for the Reformed Church in Strasbourg.
Day 1 - Afternoon à Strasbourg
4 Points of interest - Duration : 3h00 - Distance : 0.8 km - Walking : 0h11
Iron Man Square
- Place de l'Homme-de-Fer takes its name from a statue of a soldier in armor attached in the 18th century to a mansion, now No. 2 on the square.
- During the Second World War, an island of buildings was destroyed to create the current square.
© Wikimedia Commons
Maison des tanneurs
- Built in 1572, the Maison des Tanneurs is an example of typical late medieval and Renaissance Strasbourg architecture, with half-timbering, arched mullioned windows and Alsatian tile roofs.
- Since 1949, the house has been home to an Alsatian Winstub restaurant offering regional Alsatian gastronomic specialties such as Duck Foie Gras, Alsatian Snails, Stuffed Guinea Fowl, Traditional or Fish Sauerkraut and Kougelhopf glacé with Marc de Gewürtzraminer.
© Wikimedia Commons
Covered bridges
- Between 1230 and 1250, four wooden covered bridges were built over the River Ill to defend the town against attack.
- The bridges were covered with galleries with a tiled roof from the 14th century onwards.
- The galleries were open on the city side and closed with loopholes on the outside.
- In 1784, the bridge roofs were removed, and in 1865, the wooden bridges were rebuilt in stone.
- Today's 3 bridges are no longer covered, but still bear their original names.
© Wikimedia Commons
Petite France
- La Petite France, a picturesque district listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. The district is bordered by various waterways: Ill, canal de navigation, Spitz mill canals, Düntz and Zorn.
- The district is bounded by quays and streets, such as Quai de la Bruche, Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, Place Benjamin-Zix, etc.
- Petite France was historically made up of several distinct entities: the Ponts couverts, the Moulins district, the area around rue du Bain-aux-Plantes.
- An establishment for syphilis patients was transferred to Petite France in 1687, giving the district its name.
Day 2 - Strasbourg
10 POIs to discoverDay 2 - Morning à Strasbourg
5 Points of interest - Duration : 3h45 - Distance : 1.1 km - Walking : 0h15
Passerelle des Juifs
- Strasbourg's Jewish Footbridge spans the Ill River from Lezay-Marnésia Quay to Republic Square.
- In medieval times, it was the location of the Jewish Gate in the city's old fortifications, leading to the Jewish cemetery.
- Tragically, during the Black Plague outbreak on Valentine's Day in 1349, Jews were burned at this site.
© Wikimedia Commons
Courthouse
- The courthouse, built in the 1890s, boasts a Greek Revival facade adorned with Ionic columns, allegorical sculptures and sphinxes.
- Allegorical decorative elements and sphinxes are also found inside the building, particularly near the staircases leading to the courtrooms.
© Wikimedia Commons
Rhine Palace
- Also known as the Kaiserpalast, the Rhina Palace was built in 1883-1888 in a Germanic neo-renaissance style.
- Originally an imperial palace, the building is now used as an official building.
- The palace garden houses an archaeological collection and sculptures.
- The building itself has undergone transformations over the years, including use as a military hospital during the First World War.
© Wikimedia Commons
Opéra national du Rhin
- The National Rhine Opera is managed by the cities of Strasbourg, Mulhouse and Colmar, each with its own creative activity: opera in Strasbourg, Ballet de l'Opéra national du Rhin in Mulhouse and Opéra Studio in Colmar.
- The institution has been in existence for over 50 years and collaborates with the Orchestre philharmonique de Strasbourg and the Orchestre symphonique de Mulhouse for musical and choreographic productions.
© Wikimedia Commons
Janus Fountain
- The Janus fountain, also known as the Birth of Civilization, is a Roman-inspired fountain.
- It was created for the bimillennium of the city's birthplace.
- The god Janus, symbolized by his two faces, represents Strasbourg's dual identity, Franco-German.
- The fountain features a piece of aqueduct composed of 5,000 bricks masoned around a reinforced concrete structure, recalling Strasbourg's Roman origins, although no aqueduct has been found there.
- An inscription "Argentoratum MM" (the Latin name for Strasbourg) is present on one side, and "Strasbourg 2000" on the other.
Day 2 - Afternoon à Strasbourg
5 Points of interest - Duration : 4h30 - Distance : 1.2 km - Walking : 0h16
© Wikimedia Commons
Kammerzell House
- Built in 1427, the Maison Kammerzell features richly decorated half-timbering and stands opposite Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Purchased in 1571 by merchant Martin Braun, carved wooden storeys were added in 1589 in a unique Renaissance style.
- Carved wooden decorations on the facade depict sacred scenes, medieval legends, the five senses, the four ages of life, and other symbols.
- The interior houses a restaurant and a 1910 painting by Léo Schnugg illustrating a Strasbourg culinary anecdote.
© Wikimedia Commons
Rohan Palace
- The palace was built in 1732-1742 for prince-bishop Armand-Gaston-Maximilien de Rohan, replacing the previous episcopal palace.
- The palace thus takes its name from the de Rohan family, with four prince-bishops bearing this name having occupied the diocese of Strasbourg in the 18th century.
- During the French Revolution, the building was used as a place of detention, and after the German annexation of Strasbourg, it housed classes for the Kaiser-Wilhelms-Universität.
- Today, the palace houses three museums: the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Archaeological Museum.
- The palace's interiors include large apartments, such as the synod hall, the bishops' salon, the king's chamber, and the assembly salon, as well as smaller apartments of the prince-bishop, such as Napoleon I's antechamber and bedroom.
© Wikimedia Commons
Place Kléber
- The square honors Jean-Baptiste Kléber, a French general famous for his participation in the wars of the Revolution and the Egyptian campaign.
- The square is bordered by the Aubette, a neo-classical building constructed in the 18th century.
- A statue of Kléber stands in the center of the square, depicting the general in his feet holding the letter from Admiral Keith.
© Wikimedia Commons
Strasbourg astronomical clock
- This astronomical clock is considered a Renaissance marvel, with several successive clocks and complex functionalities.
- A first clock, called "des Trois Rois", built between 1352 and 1354, had automata representing the Magi.
- It is now on display at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs.
- A second clock built between 1547 and 1574 by several mathematicians and clockmakers displayed upcoming planetary shifts, moving feasts and eclipses.
- The third clock, designed by Schwilgué, incorporated new mechanisms into the buffet of the second clock and indicated time, festivals, the ecclesiastical calendar, and more.
- Animated automata set in motion at quarter hours, hours and noon, representing the ages of life and the apostles.
© Wikimedia Commons
Cabinet of Graphic Arts
- The Cabinet des estampes is a collection of graphic arts built up from 1877: woodcuts, etchings, lithographs) from the 14th to the 19th century.
- An important part of the collection is dedicated to Alsace, with views of Strasbourg, the cathedral and Alsatian portraits.
- Drawings from the 16th to the 19th centuries are also preserved, with Italian, German and French artists.
Practical details for visiting Strasbourg
Where to stay
For two days in Strasbourg, opt for central neighborhoods: the Grande Île and the area around Place Kléber offer direct access to the main sites and allow you to do everything on foot. Petite France is ideal if you're looking for a picturesque and photo-friendly vibe, while the Parliament district and the train station are better for quick connections.
Types of accommodation: boutique hotels in old buildings for atmosphere, budget-friendly chain hotels for a controlled budget, or apartments and bed and breakfasts if you prefer more privacy. Expect some compact rooms in the historic centers, but with lots of character.
Average prices: in high season, generally budget-friendly options for hostels or small hotels, a mid-range budget for well-located 3-star hotels, and a
What to bring
The weather in Strasbourg can vary by season, so think of the essentials. For a two-day stay, pack a light bag with layers: a waterproof jacket for showers, a sweater or a small fleece for cool evenings, and comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones of the historic center.
Cold seasons: bring a warm coat, gloves and a scarf. Spring/Autumn: favor layering to adapt to temperature changes. Summer: a pair of breathable shoes, a cap and sunscreen may suffice, especially if you plan to spend time by the canals.
Useful accessories: a portable power bank for your phone, a small reusable water bottle, and an adapter if needed. If you plan museum visits or an evening at the opera, a slightly dressier outfit for a dinner or a show can be handy.
In short: comfortable shoes, a waterproof outer layer, adaptable layers, and some handy accessories. Less, but better: travel light to fully enjoy your two days.
When to visit Strasbourg and how much it costs
Meilleures saisons
Choisir le bon moment pour visiter Strasbourg dépend de vos attentes. Le printemps et l'automne offrent des températures agréables, des couleurs changeantes et moins de monde qu'en plein été. Ce sont des saisons idéales si vous voulez marcher longuement et profiter des terrasses sans la foule estivale.
L'été apporte une ambiance vivante, événements en plein air et longues soirées ; toutefois, attendez-vous à plus de touristes et à des tarifs d'hébergement plus élevés. L'hiver, en dehors des périodes de fêtes, peut être frais mais donne à la ville une atmosphère intime et souvent très photogénique. Les marchés de fin d'année sont célèbres et attirent beaucoup de visiteurs — si vous souhaitez les éviter, choisissez une autre période.
Événements : si vous visez un événement particulier, adaptez vos dates en conséquence. Sinon, privilégiez la mi-saison pour un bon compromis entre météo et affluence. Conseil pratique : réservez un peu plus tôt si vous visitez pendant un festival ou la période des marchés pour garantir disponibilité et prix raisonnables.
Affluence
La fréquentation touristique varie fortement selon les saisons et les week-ends. Les mois d'été et la période des marchés de fin d'année voient sans surprise un pic de visiteurs, surtout autour de la Petite France et de la Place Kléber. Si vous aimez les lieux animés, c'est un plus ; si vous préférez la tranquillité, évitez ces périodes.
Pour limiter l'impact de la foule : commencez vos journées tôt, au lever du jour, pour profiter des lieux populaires comme la Maison Kammerzell ou les Ponts couverts avant l'arrivée des groupes. La pause déjeuner est souvent un moment plus calme pour visiter certains sites.
Les après-midis de week-end peuvent être plus chargés ; si vous pouvez programmer les visites majeures en semaine, vous gagnerez en confort. Enfin, planifiez des pauses dans des cafés ou des espaces verts pour échapper aux zones les plus fréquentées le temps d'une respiration.
Estimated budget
Budget économique : Pour deux jours, comptez sur des options d'hébergement économiques (auberge, petit hôtel) et privilégiez la marche, les sandwiches et les marchés pour les repas. Estimez un coût modeste pour les transports et quelques entrées payantes — idéal si vous voulez maîtriser vos dépenses sans sacrifier l'expérience.
Budget moyen : Hôtels 3 étoiles bien situés, quelques repas au restaurant, visites guidées et trajets en tram. Ce niveau vous permet de profiter confortablement des sites principaux, d'une croisière éventuelle et d'un repas dans une bonne adresse locale.
Budget confort : Hébergement soigné dans la Grande Île ou un appartement de charme, dîners dans des restaurants recommandés, billets pour des spectacles ou visites privées. Ce budget offre plus de flexibilité et d'expériences plus qualitatives, sans pour autant être luxueux.
Frequently asked questions about your stay in Strasbourg
Prêt pour vos 48 heures à Strasbourg ?
Ces deux jours à Strasbourg sont pensés pour vous donner un aperçu équilibré : monuments, quartiers typiques, moments gourmands et découvertes inattendues. Laissez-vous le temps de regarder, de vous asseoir à une terrasse, de changer d'itinéraire si une rue vous attire. Les meilleures impressions viennent souvent des pauses imprévues et des conversations avec des habitants ou des commerçants.
Gardez à l'esprit l'essentiel : marchez pour sentir le rythme de la ville, prenez des pauses pour savourer la cuisine locale et réservez seulement ce qui évitera les pertes de temps. Si vous avez une demi-journée libre, explorez une expo ou tentez un escape game urbain pour varier les plaisirs.
En partant du Passerelle des Juifs et en finissant à l'Aubette, vous aurez parcouru une palette d'ambiances — des façades institutionnelles aux ruelles d'eau — et emporterez des images et des souvenirs concrets. Bon voyage, bonnes découvertes et surtout, prenez plaisir à flâner : Strasbourg se révèle à ceux qui prennent le temps de la regarder.
Want more adventure?
Discover our urban escape games to transform your visit into an interactive adventure!
