Champagne
No other region in Europe is as ubiquitously known for its leading export product as Champagne. Everyone knows it’s famous effervescent leading lady, but few truly understand what makes the production of Champagne so special. Spending a day or two here can provide a nice opportunity to slow the pace of a busy European holiday, or provide a nice stopover for travelers between Paris and other destinations further east. Make of Champagne what you will…visit the world famous Champagne houses and get educated by soaking up the in depth information on its production your given during a tour and tasting, visit its famous cathedral or make a trip to the sobering monument at the World War I battlefields of Verdun.
Reims
A trip to Reims is the best of so many worlds. Not only will you be surrounded by endless history and some of the most beautiful buildings in France, this place is a Champagne lovers dream. Reims is home to some of the biggest names in Champagne such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger and Pommery to name a few. The streets of Reims are sprinkled with some of the best restaurants and most lavish hotels. Treat yourself and explore this area of France, with a glass of Champagne in hand of course!
Reims Sites
Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral
Built in the High Gothic style, this dramatic building is worth checking out while visiting Reims. This grand cathedral is known for its stained-glass windows and Gothic carved portals, including the Smiling Angel. Reims Cathedral was where French kings were crowned for over 1000 years. This is a perfect history-filled stop to breakup a Champagne filled day in Reims.
Website: https://www.cathedrale-reims.com/
Open everyday 7:30am-7:30pm
Free entry.
Address: Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France
Palais du Tau
The Palais du Tau was the palace for the Bishop of Reims. After the coronation of kings at Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, the coronation banquets would be held here. The Palais du Tau is a quick walk over from the Cathedral, and is sure to give you a glimpse into the lives of the French Monarchy.
Website: http://www.palais-du-tau.fr/en/
Closed Mondays. January 2- May 5 open 9:30am-12:30pm/2pm-5:30pm. May 6- September 8 open 9:30am-6:30pm. September 9- December 31 open 9:30am-12:30pm/2pm-5:30pm.
Admission: €8 for general admission.
Address: 2 Place du Cardinal Luçon, 51100 Reims, France
Porte de Mars
Porte de Mars is a true step back into time. This is an ancient Roman triumphal arch that still stands. The arch is dated back to the third century AD. Porte de Mars is known to be the widest arch ever built in the Roman world during this time. The arch is carefully carved with beautiful detailing and will be sure to put you in awh!
Open 24 hours.
Address: Place de la République, 51100 Reims, France
Le Musee de la Reddition
This museum is also known as “Museum of the Surrender”, and rightfully so. This informative museum is also the exact location of the German surrender of World War II. Take a walk through and look at the hundreds of war related artifacts.
Website: https://musees-reims.fr/fr/musees/musee-de-la-reddition/
Open 10am-6pm. Closed Tuesdays.
Admission: 5€ for general admission.
Address: 12 Rue du Président Franklin Roosevelt, 51100 Reims, France
Basilique Saint Remi
This beautiful structure was founded in the sixth century and is still standing. Basilique Saint Remi holds the relics of Saint Remi, who baptized King Clovis. Take a walk through and glance up at the mesmerizing stained glass and hopefully be lucky enough to hear the sweet sounds of the choir.
Website: https://www.catholique-reims.fr/
Address: Rue Saint-Julien, 51100 Reims, France
Reims Hotels & Restaurants
$$$ Domaine Les Crayères
If a major splurge is in the budget this hotel is a MUST DO! The setting is exquisite, rooms are set in the former residence.
TIP…Book your room way in advance, rarely is there last minute availability. Dinner in the garden brasserie is a wonderful experience and the wine list is superb. Visits to Champagne houses Veuve Clicquot, Pommery and Lansen are all just short walk from the hotel!
$$$ L’Assiette Champenoise
Unique hotel experience. Modern rooms with cozy common areas and Michelin Guide themed bar.
TIP…If you looking for an authentic French Michelin experience, eat and sleep here. Chef Arnaud Lallement and staff will not disappoint with an unforgettable 3 Michelin Star dinner and wine experience.
$$$ Restaurant
$$$ Restaurant
Epernay
If you are looking for a more boutique experience in Champagne, Epernay may be the perfect place for you. Well Epernay may not have as many big names, it is highly recommended to Champagne taste here. You can taste the big names in most of your local grocery stores in the United States, expand your horizons and experience some of the smaller names in Champagne. Here is a little secret…these smaller family owned Champagne houses are some of the best! Take a trip down the famous L’Avenue de Champagne in the lovely Epernay, or as some like to call it, “the capital of Champagne”.
Epernay Champagne Houses
Champagne de Venoge
This is a great place to visit if you are looking for a beautiful ambiance and tasting. Be sure to call ahead and make a reservation for a tasting time.
Address: 33 Avenue de Champagne, 51200 Épernay, France
Open daily 10am-6pm
Phone number: +33 3 26 53 34 34
Website: http://champagnedevenoge.com/#
Champagne Mercier
If you are looking for a bigger Champagne experience and to learn more about the Champagne making process, this may be for you! You can take a tour of their cellars in a train with great audio that gives you a ton of information. Champagne Mercier also has a lovely tasting that is reasonably priced. Bookings can be done online through their site.
Address: 68 Avenue de Champagne, 51200 Épernay, France
Open daily 9:30am-11:30am and 2pm-4:30pm
Phone number: +33 3 26 51 22 22
Website: https://www.champagnemercier.com/en
**Palais de Rohan
open every day except Mondays, Tues-Fri 9am-5pm (closed for lunch from 12noon-2pm), Sat-Sun open all day 9am-6pm
admission €6 per museum or €12 for all three
website: musees.strasbourg.eu
A masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, Palais de Rohan was completed in 1742 as the residence for the prince-bishops and cardinals to the noble House of Rohan. Its imposing size and religious statues were meant to celebrate the return of Catholicism to Strasbourg after two centuries of Protestant domination. Since the end of the 19th century it has housed Strasbourg’s Archaeological, Fine Art, and Decorative Arts museums. You will want to take a few minutes to check out the striking exterior of this building which epitomizes the best of French architecture.
It’s right near the Cathedral, making it convenient to do both. Visiting the museums depends on timeframe and your appetite for museums. If you do decide to dive in, I like the Fine Art Museum, look for beaux-arts, the museum elegantly presents works by Memling, Botticelli, Raphael, El Greco, Reubens and more. The Decorative Arts Museum is great if you haven’t yet visited a chateau, and love period furiniture.
**Alsatian Museum
open every day except Tuesdays
noon-6pm, Sundays 10am-6pm
Admission €4
Located just across the river from Palais de Rohan is the Alsatian Museum, dedicated to all things Alsatian. Traditional folk art, furniture, religious and everyday artifacts are all housed in Strasbourg’s oldest house, which lends itself well to the flow of the exhibits, and makes the overall experience especially authentic. Some 30 rooms all have different themes representing the various Alsatian regions. Excellent audio guide included.
**Cave Historique Des Hospices de Strasbourg
open daily, except Sundays hours 8:30-5:30 (closed for lunch noon-1:30)
Saturdays limited hours 9am-12:30pm only
admission is free, audio guide €3
website: vins-des-hospices-de-strasbourg.fr
This stop offers a unique experience of visiting a wine cellar in the city. The historic cellars have kept cool and dry under the cities civil hospital since 1395. Inside are some of the oldest wine barrels in the world and one of the world’s oldest wines from 1472. Rows of wine barrels and the overall atmosphere provide great photo ops. The audio guide is great if you want to spend more time on the history of the hospital and how the cellar came about.
TIP… If you’re lucky you will hit the cellar on a special wine tasting day to sample new wines from the region. Contact them directly to find out the tasting schedule, or ask your hotel to do it for you.
***Petit France
was to defend the city from attack. It did so successfully in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, by raising the water level on the River Ill, flooding the land south of the city, and literally holding off the enemy with a “barrage” of water, making the area impassible. Visitors can take in very nice views ofPetit France and the Ponts Couverts from the terrace. There are also some sculptures you can take a peek of inside. On different occasions throughout the year the dam is lit up nicely at night in colored lights.
Epernay Hotels & Restaurants
***Petit France
was to defend the city from attack. It did so successfully in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, by raising the water level on the River Ill, flooding the land south of the city, and literally holding off the enemy with a “barrage” of water, making the area impassible. Visitors can take in very nice views ofPetit France and the Ponts Couverts from the terrace. There are also some sculptures you can take a peek of inside. On different occasions throughout the year the dam is lit up nicely at night in colored lights.
***Petit France
was to defend the city from attack. It did so successfully in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, by raising the water level on the River Ill, flooding the land south of the city, and literally holding off the enemy with a “barrage” of water, making the area impassible. Visitors can take in very nice views ofPetit France and the Ponts Couverts from the terrace. There are also some sculptures you can take a peek of inside. On different occasions throughout the year the dam is lit up nicely at night in colored lights.
Visiting Châteaux
At the heart of this busy university city is its soul, Strasbourg’s old town center, or Grande IÎe and its most popular historic quarter Petit France, are not to be missed. Surrounded by the waterways of the River Ill, and chalk full of timbered medieval buildings, every inch of this pedestrian friendly cobbled zone is picture perfect Franco Germanic charm. The main attractions, hotels and fantastic restaurants are all within walking distance in and around the old town.
TIP.. Le Petit France area is charming, and the hotels are great, however be sure to search for restaurants off the beaten path, there are oodles of hidden gems.
*formal seat of the European Union
*home to France’s largest university
*its old town was given UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1988
*located on the west bank of the Rhine River
*all museums are free in the city on the first Sunday of each month
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Visiting Châteaux
This tour begins at Place Kléber and at a comfortable pace lasts approximately 4-6 hours, depending on duration of stops. Without stopping, not going inside of any of the sites and just some picture taking, the walk can be completed in about an hour and a half. This tour can be done in reverse depending on your most convenient starting location.
***Place Kléber
Strasbourg’s biggest square is at the heart of the Grande IÎe and makes a great starting point for seeing the sights within and around the old town center. If you’re here during the Christmas Markets, there is a big beautiful tree that lights up the whole square. In the center of this large open space is a statue and a vault containing the remains of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber, the squares namesake. Many of my favorite restaurants are located on the pedestrian streets between here and the cathedral. This is a great area for lunch or to come back to for dinner. For the purposes of my walk Place Kléber will be either the beginning or ending point of the self-guided walking tour.
Place Kléber is also a great place to begin if you want to walk to the sights just outside to the northeast of the Grande IÎe, such as the European Union and Place de République which I include in the “Other Strasbourg Sites” section.
***Strasbourg Cathedral
open daily, except during mass
Admission €4.40 adults, €2.20 children 5-17 and students
Steps up to viewing platform additional €5
Website cathedrale-strasbourg.fr
The dramatic Cathedral of Our Lady is a MUST DO! It’s France’s second most visited cathedral after Paris’ Notre Dame and is Strasbourg’s most popular site. The Roman Catholic Cathedral was erected in 1439. Complete with stained glass and supported by its graceful flying buttresses, it’s one of the best examples of late Gothic architecture in Europe. The soaring spire rising from its medieval square, can be seen from miles away. Sandstone quarried from the nearby Vosges Mountains was used in its construction, casting a delicate texture to its structure and tableau of pink on its exterior.
Walking around inside take special notice of the stained glass, most is from the 13th and 14th century, some (located on the left side in the transept as you enter the front of the cathedral) dates from the 12th century! At the opposite side of the transept, (right as you walk in), you will see The Pillar of the Angels, Le Pilier Des Agnes, a column displaying beautiful 13th century statuary. Also, here is a sixty-foot astronomical clock from the 15th century, which performs it greatest series of chimes each day at 12:30p.m. The clock plays a simpler chime every 15 minutes. Its special dials display the positions of the moon, sun and stars, clocks like these helped determine seasonal equinoxes, leap years and even where Easter fell in the Christian calendar with great accuracy. Also, worth noting is the cathedrals suspended pipe organ and ornate 15th century pulpit.
If you don’t mind the climb, the view at the top of the spires over 300 steps, is well worth the effort. The medieval center surrounds you from below, the Rhine flows past and the iconic Black Forest can be seen in the east, where France meets Germany.
TIP… The cathedral is most crowded around noon when tour operators spill in to see the fanfare of the 12:30 clock chime.
**Palais de Rohan
open every day except Mondays, Tues-Fri 9am-5pm (closed for lunch from 12noon-2pm), Sat-Sun open all day 9am-6pm
admission €6 per museum or €12 for all three
website: musees.strasbourg.eu
A masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, Palais de Rohan was completed in 1742 as the residence for the prince-bishops and cardinals to the noble House of Rohan. Its imposing size and religious statues were meant to celebrate the return of Catholicism to Strasbourg after two centuries of Protestant domination. Since the end of the 19th century it has housed Strasbourg’s Archaeological, Fine Art, and Decorative Arts museums. You will want to take a few minutes to check out the striking exterior of this building which epitomizes the best of French architecture.
It’s right near the Cathedral, making it convenient to do both. Visiting the museums depends on timeframe and your appetite for museums. If you do decide to dive in, I like the Fine Art Museum, look for beaux-arts, the museum elegantly presents works by Memling, Botticelli, Raphael, El Greco, Reubens and more. The Decorative Arts Museum is great if you haven’t yet visited a chateau, and love period furiniture.
**Alsatian Museum
open every day except Tuesdays
noon-6pm, Sundays 10am-6pm
Admission €4
Located just across the river from Palais de Rohan is the Alsatian Museum, dedicated to all things Alsatian. Traditional folk art, furniture, religious and everyday artifacts are all housed in Strasbourg’s oldest house, which lends itself well to the flow of the exhibits, and makes the overall experience especially authentic. Some 30 rooms all have different themes representing the various Alsatian regions. Excellent audio guide included.
**Cave Historique Des Hospices de Strasbourg
open daily, except Sundays hours 8:30-5:30 (closed for lunch noon-1:30)
Saturdays limited hours 9am-12:30pm only
admission is free, audio guide €3
website: vins-des-hospices-de-strasbourg.fr
This stop offers a unique experience of visiting a wine cellar in the city. The historic cellars have kept cool and dry under the cities civil hospital since 1395. Inside are some of the oldest wine barrels in the world and one of the world’s oldest wines from 1472. Rows of wine barrels and the overall atmosphere provide great photo ops. The audio guide is great if you want to spend more time on the history of the hospital and how the cellar came about.
TIP… If you’re lucky you will hit the cellar on a special wine tasting day to sample new wines from the region. Contact them directly to find out the tasting schedule, or ask your hotel to do it for you.
Other Visiting Châteaux Sites
Other Important/significant Sites/ things to do off the path of walking tour that are not included in walk of City
German Quarter
The area across the canal and east of the Grande Île encompasses the late 19th century German Quarter or Quartier Allemande. Large buildings such as The Palace of the Rhine and The National Theater are what remains of Imperial Germany. Today the buildings that once represented German power, define a resilient city and function as part of the modern cultural landscape of Strasbourg. If you are visiting the city for more than a day, the cities new town German Quarter is worth strolling.
The following sites are all within the German Quarter and in close proximity to one another.
Place de la République – German Quarter
On the border between the historic Grande Île and the new town, is Place de la République, originally designed as the German Kaiserplatz, or Imperial Square. Completed in 1887, this area symbolized the new German power that now reigned over the city or Strasbourg. It’s first run as a German platz, came to an end in 1919, when it became a place, after the return of Alsace-Lorraine to the French. In 1940, during the second German annexation it was given a new nameBismarckplatz. Finally, in 1945 it returned to being French again and was renamed one last time, Place de la République. Today it is a symbol epitomized by the beautiful monument that dominates its central garden square. On it is an inscription that simply reads, “to our dead”, a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Strasbourg National Theater – German Quarter
website: www.tns.fr
Situated on the Place de la République is Strasbourg’s National Theater. The neoclassical building was constructed in 1892 and housed the legislative assembly under German controlled Alsace and Lorraine. In 1919 the building was offered by the city to the Strasbourg Music Conservatory. Subsequent bombing in World War II destroyed the east wing, it was rebuilt as theater auditorium, which opened as such in 1957. Today’s theater was established in 1968 and is the only theater of its kind in Alsace. During the theater season fifteen shows are put on by both the in-house company as well as visiting companies. Seeing a performance in this massive building is both culturally and historically exciting.
**Church of St. Paul
Situated on an island on the River Ill, The Protestant Reform Church of St. Paul dominates the new town with its 250 foot, high spires. A beautiful example of Gothic Revival Architecture, it was completed in 1897. The church, like many of the buildings in this part of Strasbourg, was built by Imperial Germany. Its congregation was made up of the army generals and soldiers that were stationed in the city. Its 19 portals, a lot for a church of its size, were each designated and used only by rank, from generals down to foot soldiers.
**Parc de l’Orangerie
A beautiful 17th century park with a lake, great for jogging, strolling and birdwatching. Storks, which are symbolic of Alsace, can be seen. Depending on the season, there may even be canoeing available and an indoor bowling alley is open all year. The flower filled park has playgrounds and a free zoo for kids, which is open daily, year around. making this a MUST DO spot for families. Also, the gourmet restaurant Buerehiesel, is located in a 17th century farmhouse inside the park, which I include in the “Strasbourg Restaurants” section with a full description.
European Union Building
open to the public only when parliament is in session admission is free, must be at least 14 years of age to enter
website: europarl.europa.eu
Located about a mile and a half from the old town and only a half mile from Parc de l’Orangerie is the European Union Building. It’s a beautiful modern building representing the largest transnational parliament in the world. Its architecture is evocative of the direction in which the EU sees itself going, towards the future. Inside, the Hemicircle can seat all 785 members of the Parliament. You will notice the tower has a “half finished” look, it is actually part of the design, meant to remind the members of Parliament of the work that still needs to be done to unite all of Europe. The tower is rumored to be modeled after a painting by Bruegel, Tower of Babel, oddly it does bear a striking resemblance. Its main entrance makes for a great photo amid the flags of each EU country. Its glass construction reflects nicely on the River Ill, the bridge connecting it to the other side of the river leads to the Winston Churchill Building. The only way to gain entrance is to attend a session of the assembly, which must be reserved in advance. The spots are limited and only available when Parliament is in session. The website calendar lists the days (highlighted in blue) when the assembly is in session and how to gain access.
Visiting Châteaux Hotels & Restaurants
***Petit France
was to defend the city from attack. It did so successfully in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, by raising the water level on the River Ill, flooding the land south of the city, and literally holding off the enemy with a “barrage” of water, making the area impassible. Visitors can take in very nice views ofPetit France and the Ponts Couverts from the terrace. There are also some sculptures you can take a peek of inside. On different occasions throughout the year the dam is lit up nicely at night in colored lights.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
Champagne Tasting
At the heart of this busy university city is its soul, Strasbourg’s old town center, or Grande IÎe and its most popular historic quarter Petit France, are not to be missed. Surrounded by the waterways of the River Ill, and chalk full of timbered medieval buildings, every inch of this pedestrian friendly cobbled zone is picture perfect Franco Germanic charm. The main attractions, hotels and fantastic restaurants are all within walking distance in and around the old town.
TIP.. Le Petit France area is charming, and the hotels are great, however be sure to search for restaurants off the beaten path, there are oodles of hidden gems.
*formal seat of the European Union
*home to France’s largest university
*its old town was given UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1988
*located on the west bank of the Rhine River
*all museums are free in the city on the first Sunday of each month
Champagne Tasting Walking Tour of Visiting Châteaux
This tour begins at Place Kléber and at a comfortable pace lasts approximately 4-6 hours, depending on duration of stops. Without stopping, not going inside of any of the sites and just some picture taking, the walk can be completed in about an hour and a half. This tour can be done in reverse depending on your most convenient starting location.
***Place Kléber
Strasbourg’s biggest square is at the heart of the Grande IÎe and makes a great starting point for seeing the sights within and around the old town center. If you’re here during the Christmas Markets, there is a big beautiful tree that lights up the whole square. In the center of this large open space is a statue and a vault containing the remains of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber, the squares namesake. Many of my favorite restaurants are located on the pedestrian streets between here and the cathedral. This is a great area for lunch or to come back to for dinner. For the purposes of my walk Place Kléber will be either the beginning or ending point of the self-guided walking tour.
Place Kléber is also a great place to begin if you want to walk to the sights just outside to the northeast of the Grande IÎe, such as the European Union and Place de République which I include in the “Other Strasbourg Sites” section.
***Strasbourg Cathedral
open daily, except during mass
Admission €4.40 adults, €2.20 children 5-17 and students
Steps up to viewing platform additional €5
Website cathedrale-strasbourg.fr
The dramatic Cathedral of Our Lady is a MUST DO! It’s France’s second most visited cathedral after Paris’ Notre Dame and is Strasbourg’s most popular site. The Roman Catholic Cathedral was erected in 1439. Complete with stained glass and supported by its graceful flying buttresses, it’s one of the best examples of late Gothic architecture in Europe. The soaring spire rising from its medieval square, can be seen from miles away. Sandstone quarried from the nearby Vosges Mountains was used in its construction, casting a delicate texture to its structure and tableau of pink on its exterior.
Walking around inside take special notice of the stained glass, most is from the 13th and 14th century, some (located on the left side in the transept as you enter the front of the cathedral) dates from the 12th century! At the opposite side of the transept, (right as you walk in), you will see The Pillar of the Angels, Le Pilier Des Agnes, a column displaying beautiful 13th century statuary. Also, here is a sixty-foot astronomical clock from the 15th century, which performs it greatest series of chimes each day at 12:30p.m. The clock plays a simpler chime every 15 minutes. Its special dials display the positions of the moon, sun and stars, clocks like these helped determine seasonal equinoxes, leap years and even where Easter fell in the Christian calendar with great accuracy. Also, worth noting is the cathedrals suspended pipe organ and ornate 15th century pulpit.
If you don’t mind the climb, the view at the top of the spires over 300 steps, is well worth the effort. The medieval center surrounds you from below, the Rhine flows past and the iconic Black Forest can be seen in the east, where France meets Germany.
TIP… The cathedral is most crowded around noon when tour operators spill in to see the fanfare of the 12:30 clock chime.
**Palais de Rohan
open every day except Mondays, Tues-Fri 9am-5pm (closed for lunch from 12noon-2pm), Sat-Sun open all day 9am-6pm
admission €6 per museum or €12 for all three
website: musees.strasbourg.eu
A masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, Palais de Rohan was completed in 1742 as the residence for the prince-bishops and cardinals to the noble House of Rohan. Its imposing size and religious statues were meant to celebrate the return of Catholicism to Strasbourg after two centuries of Protestant domination. Since the end of the 19th century it has housed Strasbourg’s Archaeological, Fine Art, and Decorative Arts museums. You will want to take a few minutes to check out the striking exterior of this building which epitomizes the best of French architecture.
It’s right near the Cathedral, making it convenient to do both. Visiting the museums depends on timeframe and your appetite for museums. If you do decide to dive in, I like the Fine Art Museum, look for beaux-arts, the museum elegantly presents works by Memling, Botticelli, Raphael, El Greco, Reubens and more. The Decorative Arts Museum is great if you haven’t yet visited a chateau, and love period furiniture.
**Alsatian Museum
open every day except Tuesdays
noon-6pm, Sundays 10am-6pm
Admission €4
Located just across the river from Palais de Rohan is the Alsatian Museum, dedicated to all things Alsatian. Traditional folk art, furniture, religious and everyday artifacts are all housed in Strasbourg’s oldest house, which lends itself well to the flow of the exhibits, and makes the overall experience especially authentic. Some 30 rooms all have different themes representing the various Alsatian regions. Excellent audio guide included.
**Cave Historique Des Hospices de Strasbourg
open daily, except Sundays hours 8:30-5:30 (closed for lunch noon-1:30)
Saturdays limited hours 9am-12:30pm only
admission is free, audio guide €3
website: vins-des-hospices-de-strasbourg.fr
This stop offers a unique experience of visiting a wine cellar in the city. The historic cellars have kept cool and dry under the cities civil hospital since 1395. Inside are some of the oldest wine barrels in the world and one of the world’s oldest wines from 1472. Rows of wine barrels and the overall atmosphere provide great photo ops. The audio guide is great if you want to spend more time on the history of the hospital and how the cellar came about.
TIP… If you’re lucky you will hit the cellar on a special wine tasting day to sample new wines from the region. Contact them directly to find out the tasting schedule, or ask your hotel to do it for you.
Other Champagne Tasting Sites
Other Important/significant Sites/ things to do off the path of walking tour that are not included in walk of City
German Quarter
The area across the canal and east of the Grande Île encompasses the late 19th century German Quarter or Quartier Allemande. Large buildings such as The Palace of the Rhine and The National Theater are what remains of Imperial Germany. Today the buildings that once represented German power, define a resilient city and function as part of the modern cultural landscape of Strasbourg. If you are visiting the city for more than a day, the cities new town German Quarter is worth strolling.
The following sites are all within the German Quarter and in close proximity to one another.
Place de la République – German Quarter
On the border between the historic Grande Île and the new town, is Place de la République, originally designed as the German Kaiserplatz, or Imperial Square. Completed in 1887, this area symbolized the new German power that now reigned over the city or Strasbourg. It’s first run as a German platz, came to an end in 1919, when it became a place, after the return of Alsace-Lorraine to the French. In 1940, during the second German annexation it was given a new nameBismarckplatz. Finally, in 1945 it returned to being French again and was renamed one last time, Place de la République. Today it is a symbol epitomized by the beautiful monument that dominates its central garden square. On it is an inscription that simply reads, “to our dead”, a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Strasbourg National Theater – German Quarter
website: www.tns.fr
Situated on the Place de la République is Strasbourg’s National Theater. The neoclassical building was constructed in 1892 and housed the legislative assembly under German controlled Alsace and Lorraine. In 1919 the building was offered by the city to the Strasbourg Music Conservatory. Subsequent bombing in World War II destroyed the east wing, it was rebuilt as theater auditorium, which opened as such in 1957. Today’s theater was established in 1968 and is the only theater of its kind in Alsace. During the theater season fifteen shows are put on by both the in-house company as well as visiting companies. Seeing a performance in this massive building is both culturally and historically exciting.
**Church of St. Paul
Situated on an island on the River Ill, The Protestant Reform Church of St. Paul dominates the new town with its 250 foot, high spires. A beautiful example of Gothic Revival Architecture, it was completed in 1897. The church, like many of the buildings in this part of Strasbourg, was built by Imperial Germany. Its congregation was made up of the army generals and soldiers that were stationed in the city. Its 19 portals, a lot for a church of its size, were each designated and used only by rank, from generals down to foot soldiers.
**Parc de l’Orangerie
A beautiful 17th century park with a lake, great for jogging, strolling and birdwatching. Storks, which are symbolic of Alsace, can be seen. Depending on the season, there may even be canoeing available and an indoor bowling alley is open all year. The flower filled park has playgrounds and a free zoo for kids, which is open daily, year around. making this a MUST DO spot for families. Also, the gourmet restaurant Buerehiesel, is located in a 17th century farmhouse inside the park, which I include in the “Strasbourg Restaurants” section with a full description.
European Union Building
open to the public only when parliament is in session admission is free, must be at least 14 years of age to enter
website: europarl.europa.eu
Located about a mile and a half from the old town and only a half mile from Parc de l’Orangerie is the European Union Building. It’s a beautiful modern building representing the largest transnational parliament in the world. Its architecture is evocative of the direction in which the EU sees itself going, towards the future. Inside, the Hemicircle can seat all 785 members of the Parliament. You will notice the tower has a “half finished” look, it is actually part of the design, meant to remind the members of Parliament of the work that still needs to be done to unite all of Europe. The tower is rumored to be modeled after a painting by Bruegel, Tower of Babel, oddly it does bear a striking resemblance. Its main entrance makes for a great photo amid the flags of each EU country. Its glass construction reflects nicely on the River Ill, the bridge connecting it to the other side of the river leads to the Winston Churchill Building. The only way to gain entrance is to attend a session of the assembly, which must be reserved in advance. The spots are limited and only available when Parliament is in session. The website calendar lists the days (highlighted in blue) when the assembly is in session and how to gain access.
Visiting Champagne Tasting & Restaurants
***Petit France
was to defend the city from attack. It did so successfully in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War, by raising the water level on the River Ill, flooding the land south of the city, and literally holding off the enemy with a “barrage” of water, making the area impassible. Visitors can take in very nice views ofPetit France and the Ponts Couverts from the terrace. There are also some sculptures you can take a peek of inside. On different occasions throughout the year the dam is lit up nicely at night in colored lights.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
$$$ Restaurant Buerehiesel
Tucked inside the center of the park is the Michelin rated Restaurant Buerehiesel, housed inside of a 17th century half-timbered farmhouse, which was moved from another part of the city and brought into the park in 1895.
TIP… The restaurants three-course business lunch menu offers the same great experience for €35. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.