At first sight, Strasbourg looks like a hybrid of Prague and Amsterdam – the cosmopolitan and cultural capital of Alsace is known as the City of Roads, which seems a bit like Amsterdam’s network of canals, and the magnificently framed homes and structures recall Prague’s outstanding architecture.
More than 48,000 students use the city for an intellectual base, and tourists book flights to Strasbourg to absorb its atmosphere – a simultaneous feeling of calmness and stimulation. Just west of the Rhine, this bustling district links Western Europe to the Mediterranean, and blends both locales beautifully. Bikes zoom in and out of roads, pedestrians adorn sidewalks and saunter in and out of restaurants, winstubs (Alasatian eateries) and pubs open their doors and teem with noise everywhere you look.
Arguably, the best way to see the city in its truest form is on foot, taking in the warm smells, neighboring sights, genuine sounds, and lingering with the locals in one of the many independently owned establishments. In addition to the little things here and there, make sure to experience the striking cathedrals, most built in medieval pink sandstone, and evoking a historical sense of significance. Book flights to Strasbourg to endure all this thriving capital has to offer.
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While most of the year is rainy and wet, there are still beautiful Strasbourg days when the sun shines, the temperatures rise, and the outdoors become a perfect French paradise. Summers are warm and dry, and most tourists booking flights to Strasbourg can rely on the good weather for outdoor shopping, al fresco dining, strolling through the streets or admiring the sedate green spaces of the countryside. If you’re booking Strasbourg flights between November and January, however, pack warm clothing, reliable outerwear, and raingear: it rains a third of the time, and snows frequently.
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Peak Season:
Although it’s rainy all year round, there are a few times in the year when temperatures rise and, rain lets up. If you’re booking Strasbourg flights between November and January, however, pack warm clothing, reliable outerwear, and raingear: it rains a third of the time, and snows frequently. Specifically in the summer months between June and August, the sun peeks out of the clouds, and heats the city up to approximately 75 degrees F. So if you’re booking flights to Strasbourg in the summer, pack sunglasses and flip flops, and enjoy the pleasant outdoors.
Off-Peak Season:
Finding cheap flights to Strasbourg may be difficult when the European Parliament is in town – hotels tend to fill up, and the entire city swells with government officials. If you are planning to visit during that time, then book your accommodations and flight to Strasbourg early to reserve yourself a spot in the chaos.
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Many of Strasbourg’s amenities were built in the 1800s, so the train station has a very antiquated feel. SNCF runs the public buses and trams, and the main hub is Place de l’Home de Fer. From there you can hop on one of the four tram lines to get across town quickly and easily. You can also get a Euroline bus schedule at the station, which will help you get to cities beyond Strasbourg. Make sure you reserve your seat early though. If you’d like to be more independent, rent a car through companies like Avis, National Citer and Sixt. Taxis and bikes are also readily available.
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Cathedrale Notre Dame: It’s hard to visit Europe without immersing yourself in the beauty and grandeur of its religious architecture, the beautiful Gothic cathedrals and the Romanesque chapels. The Cathedrale Notre Dame may be one of the most famous on the continent, luring travelers to book Strasbourg flights no matter what time of year. Completed in 1284, its west façade is one of the most remarkable aspects, as well as the 12th and 14th century stained glass windows – specifically the rose window over the western portal. The 14th century colorful organ case may not be an architectural spectacle, but it’s surely a work of art, and don’t miss the astronomical clock (called horlogue astronomique), made in the 16th century, which strikes at 12:30 PM every day.
European Parliament: The city as you know it today could be a completely different city tomorrow. The 732 officials of the European Parliament book flights to Strasbourg 12 times a year to discuss matters of the union. When this happens, Strasbourg floods with government dignitaries, and most hotels are completely taken over by them. Four day-long “part sessions” occur, where discussions on politics are weighed in on, and decisions are made. It’s hard to find cheap flights to Strasbourg when the Parliament is in session. If you do plan to travel at this time, you’ll be able to sit in on the debates for an hour. Bring your photo ID, and plan to wait in line – there are no reservations accepted.
Petite France: Sometimes, a city has an area that exists as a little microcosm of itself. In Strasbourg, it’s called Petit France, where historic establishments, cobblestone roads, 16th century buildings, and fine restaurants come together to create a fusion of old and new. Its quaint ambiance makes it a popular tourist destination, beckoning travelers to book Strasbourg flights each year. When you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by narrow lanes, winding canals, half-timbered houses, and riverside parks. The whole area is most charming in the evening, when the sun sets over covered bridges and boats, and the “Venice of the East” lights up in a warm glow of activity.
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Book a cheap flight to Strasbourg and arrive at Strasbourg International Airport (SXB).
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