Located on the border with Germany, Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region and its unique character blends Franco German architecture, traditions and gastronomy beautifully.
The Grande Île historic quarter embraced by the Ill River and Canal du Faux-Rempart is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of medieval city, oozing Alsacian charm.
Within the ‘Big island’, La Petite France or Little France is one of the most picture-perfect neighbourhoods, with its quaint timber frame houses, cobbled alleys and network of canals. Also known as Quartier des Tanneurs, the district was the home of tanners and other craftspeople and artisans in medieval times.
The Grand Île is also home to the stunning Gothic cathedral and some of the city’s superb18th century hotels and palaces including Hôtel de Hanau, now the city hall.
Completed in 1439, Strasbourg Cathedral, Cathedrale Notre Dame, is an exquisite example of Gothic architecture and once described by Victor Hugo as a ‘gigantic and delicate marvel’. It is also one of the tallest churches in the world.
A hub of European politics and institutions, Strasbourg hosts the Council of Europe headquarters and the official seat of the European Parliament, where plenary sessions take place. The students will also get to learn about the history of the city at the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg, from the Middle Ages to the creation of European Institutions.
From the end of November and throughout December, the scents of mulled wine, ginger bread and other seasonal and regional foods take over Strasbourg’s atmospheric old town as the city hosts its traditional Christmas Market: Christkindelsmärik.
This magical Christmas market is one of the most beautiful and popular in Europe. If you’d like to travel to Strasbourg during the festive season, we recommend talking to our travel experts well in advance to organise your Strasbourg school trip.
