Strasbourg, the charming capital of France’s Alsace region, is a captivating blend of French and German culture, picturesque architecture, and delectable cuisine. Choosing the right neighborhood and accommodation is key to making the most of your visit to this enchanting city.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Strasbourg 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Ile
- ✨ 5-Star: Hôtel Régent Petite France & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg - MGallery ▪ Hotel Les Haras
- 🛏️ 3-Star: ibis Styles Strasbourg Centre
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Strasbourg - Montagne Verte & Restaurant Louisiane
- 🏢 Apartament: Appartement Petite France avec terrasse
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hotel Villa d'Est
- 🏩 For Couples: Hôtel & Spa Le Bouclier D'or
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best neighborhoods to stay in Strasbourg, highlighting their unique characteristics, top attractions, and recommended hotels for various budgets. From the historic heart of Grande Île and the fairytale-like Petite France to the modern European Quarter and the lively Krutenau, we’ll help you find the ideal base for your Strasbourg adventure.
Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations, charming boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options, our guide has you covered. Let’s dive in and explore the best neighborhoods and hotels in Strasbourg, France.
Quick Strasbourg Neighborhood Guide 📋
- 🔥 For the First Time: La Petite France
- 💸 Budget-friendly: Centre Gare
- 💎 For Luxury: Orangerie, European Quarter
- 🍸 For Nightlife: Bourse, Esplanade, Krutenau
- 🔮 For Local Vibe: Neudorf
1. Grand Île & La Petite France – Where to Stay in Strasbourg for the First Time 👀
🧙♀️ Timeless Charm: The historic heart of Strasbourg, the Grand Île (Large Island) is surrounded by the River Ill and the Canal du Faux Rempart. At its center lies the charming district of La Petite France, the former home of tanners, millers and fishermen that is now one of Strasbourg’s top tourist attractions.
🔥 Highlights of La Petite France include:
- Barrage Vauban, 17th century dam & defensive structure with rooftop terrace
- Ponts Couverts, medieval bridges & towers that were once part of city walls
- Place Benjamin Zix, charming cobblestone square lined with half-timbered houses
- The Maison des Tanneurs, a beautiful 1572 half-timbered house that was once home to tanners
- Quaint pedestrian streets like Rue des Dentelles (Street of Lace) and Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes (Bath of Plants Street)
🚣 Must-See: La Petite France district is an absolutely must-see attraction when visiting Strasbourg. Its fairy-tale charm and remarkably preserved historic architecture transport you back in time.
🛶 Waterway Views: For a different perspective, take a sightseeing boat trip along the canals. Within easy walking distance of La Petite France, other top sights on the Grand Île include:
- Strasbourg Cathedral – a Gothic masterpiece with an intricate facade and towering spire
- Palais Rohan – 18th century palace housing archaeological, decorative arts, and fine arts museums
- Maison Kammerzell – ornate 15th century half-timbered house near the cathedral
🌍 World Heritage: The entire Grande Île was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988 for its universal value and testimony to medieval architecture.
All hotels near Petite France →
Where to Stay near Petite France? 🏨
Best hotels in Petite France:
- Regent Petite France – This luxurious 5-star hotel is located in the historic Petite France district. It offers elegant rooms and suites, a spa, and fine dining with stunning views of the city.
- Pavillon Regent Petite France – Situated in the charming Petite France quarter, this 4-star hotel provides exceptional service and genuine hospitality.
- Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection – This stylish 4-star hotel is set in a historic building near the Strasbourg Cathedral. It features contemporary rooms, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant serving Alsatian cuisine.
Best cheap/moderate hotels:
- Le Bouclier d'Or – Located in the heart of Strasbourg, this 3-star hotel offers cozy rooms at affordable prices. I appreciate the friendly staff and the hotel’s proximity to main attractions.
- BOMA Hotel Strasbourg – This modern 3-star hotel is situated near the train station and features comfortable rooms with colorful decor. It provides good value for money and easy access to public transportation.
- Le Bain aux Plantes – Set in a historic building, this charming 3-star hotel offers uniquely decorated rooms inspired by nature.
- Appartement Cosy Hypercentre Strasbourg – This budget-friendly hostel offers private apartments with kitchenettes in the city center. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking independence and affordability.
2. Centre Gare (Train Station District) – Best Place to Stay in Strasbourg on a Budget 💸
🚉 Transit Hub: The Centre Gare area, also known as the Train Station District, is an ideal base for travelers who prioritize convenience and easy access to public transportation. Situated around the main railway station, Gare de Strasbourg, this neighborhood offers a wide range of accommodation options and is well-connected to the city’s top attractions.
📃 Key features of the Centre Gare district include:
- Excellent public transportation links, with trams and buses connecting to various parts of the city
- A variety of hotels catering to different budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly chains to more upscale options
- Shopping opportunities at the nearby Place des Halles shopping center and along Rue du 22 Novembre
- Plenty of dining options, from casual eateries to international restaurants
🏙️ Convenient Base: While the Centre Gare district may lack the picturesque charm of La Petite France, it makes up for it with its convenient location and easy access to the city’s main attractions. The famous Strasbourg Cathedral is just a 15-minute walk away, while the historic city center can be reached within minutes by tram.
If you who want to be close to transportation hubs and don’t mind a more modern atmosphere, the Centre Gare area is a practical and convenient choice.
Where to Stay near Strasbourg Train Station? 🏩
Best hotels near Centre Gare
- voco Strasbourg Centre – This 4-star hotel is located in the heart of Strasbourg, just a short walk from the train station. It features a beautiful garden, modern rooms, and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine.
- Hôtel Tandem – Situated near the train station, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with unique decor inspired by storks, the symbol of Alsace. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet each morning.
- Hôtel Graffalgar – This 3-star hotel is conveniently located near the train station and features modern, soundproofed rooms. The hotel also offers a 24-hour reception and a breakfast buffet.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hôtel Saint-Augustin – Located in the heart of Strasbourg, this affordable hotel offers simple but comfortable rooms. It is within walking distance of many popular attractions, such as the Cathedral and Petite France.
- Mercure Strasbourg – This budget-friendly hotel is situated in the picturesque Petite France district. It features cozy rooms and a convenient location near many restaurants and shops.
- Le Grand Hôtel – This moderately priced hotel is located near the train station and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet each morning and take advantage of the hotel’s central location.
Best Hostels
- Ciarus – This popular hostel is located near the train station and offers both private rooms and dormitories. It features a large common area, a shared kitchen, and a terrace where guests can socialize. The hostel also organizes various activities and events.
3. Orangerie & European Quarter – Best Area to Stay in Strasbourg for Luxury 💎
🌍 Cosmopolitan Hub: For a taste of Strasbourg’s more modern and upscale side, consider staying in the Orangerie or neighboring European Quarter. This area has an air of professionalism and sophistication, being home to many European institutions like the Council of Europe and European Parliament.
🏞️ Historic Gardens: The Orangerie gets its name from the historic Orangery gardens, which provide a beautiful peaceful green space in the heart of the district. Highlights include:
- Parc de l’Orangerie – Formal French gardens with a small lake and sculptures
- Palais de l’Europe – Striking modern architecture housing European institutions
- Chic shopping along Rue du Vieux Marché aux Vins and Rue des Francs-Bourgeois
And don’t miss trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants popular with young professionals.
🏢 Contemporary Vibe: Across the River Ill, the European Quarter is an ultra-modern area developed around the European institutions. You’ll find:
- Striking contemporary architecture and plazas
- The futuristic-looking European Parliament building
- Luxury hotels and apartment accommodations
- Multinational dining options from French to Japanese cuisine
🌳 Residential Escape: While not in Strasbourg’s historic core, the Orangerie and European Quarter offer a quieter, more residential atmosphere. It’s a great option for those wanting luxury accommodations, easy access to parks and green spaces, and a taste of Strasbourg’s cosmopolitan side beyond just the tourist areas.
Where to Stay in Orangerie & European Quarter? 🏨
Best hotels in Orangerie & European Quarter
- Boutique Hotel Des XV – This charming boutique hotel offers a peaceful and quiet location, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center. The rooms are well-appointed and the staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant stay.
- La Résidence de l'Orangerie – Situated in the lovely Orangerie district, this hotel provides a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. The spacious rooms are tastefully decorated, and the hotel’s proximity to the beautiful Parc de l’Orangerie is a definite plus.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Villa Novarina – This hotel offers great value for money, with clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The staff is welcoming and always ready to help, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Le Jean-Sébastien Bach – Located in a convenient area, this hotel provides a good balance of comfort and affordability. The rooms are well-maintained, and the hotel offers a range of amenities, including a bar and a tasty breakfast.
- Embassy Corner – This hotel is a great option for those seeking a comfortable stay without breaking the bank. The rooms are cozy and well-equipped, and the hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city.
4. Bourse & Esplanade & Krutenau – Best Neighborhood in Strasbourg for Nightlife 💃🏻
😎 Hip & Lively: For a taste of Strasbourg City vibrant and trendy side, the neighboring districts of Bourse, Esplanade, and Krutenau are a great choice. Located just southeast of the Grand Île, this area is known for its lively atmosphere, diverse dining and nightlife scene, and proximity to universities and cultural attractions.
💫 Highlights of the Bourse-Esplanade-Krutenau area include:
- Place de la République – Grand square with a statue of Gutenberg
- Place d’Austerlitz – Lively square with outdoor cafes and markets
- Cité de la Musique et de la Danse – Modern complex for music and dance performances
- Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg – Housed in a 16th-century slaughterhouse
- National and University Library – Impressive historic library with reading rooms
🏘 Contrasting Vibes: The Bourse and Esplanade districts have a more modern, urban feel with wide boulevards, apartment buildings, and office towers. In contrast, Krutenau has a bohemian vibe with its narrow streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and abundance of street art.
🏡 Budget-friendly: For budget-friendly options, you’ll find a mix of hostels, small hotels, and Airbnb apartments in the Bourse-Esplanade-Krutenau area. It’s a great choice for those wanting to experience Strasbourg’s youthful energy, eclectic dining and nightlife.
Where to Stay in Bourse? 🏩
Best Hotels
- Cour du Corbeau – This charming hotel is housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century building right in the heart of Strasbourg’s historic Petite France quarter. The rooms are cozy and full of character, with exposed wooden beams and antique furnishings. The courtyard is a lovely spot to relax with a glass of wine in the evening.
- LİFE İNCİTY – These modern and well-equipped apartments are perfectly located in the picturesque Petite France neighborhood. The kitchenettes make it easy to cook your own meals, and some units even have views of the canals. The staff is friendly and helpful with local recommendations.
- Hôtel Diana Dauphine – A classy and elegant hotel just steps away from the Cathedral. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, with plush bedding and modern amenities. The staff provides excellent service, and the breakfast buffet is not to be missed.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- La Célestine – A lovely boutique hotel set in a former convent, offering a serene atmosphere and gorgeous courtyard garden. The rooms are bright and airy, with comfortable beds and high-quality linens. The breakfast is delicious, featuring fresh pastries and local specialties.
- Suite Place de l'Etoile – If you’re looking for an affordable yet central place to stay, this is it. The simple but clean rooms offer stunning views of the Cathedral right from your window. The hosts are welcoming and provide great tips for exploring the city.
- Appartement l'Ill au Sable – A great value for a full apartment in a residential area. It’s a bit farther from the tourist sights, but very spacious and comfortable for longer stays. The kitchen is well-stocked and the living room is a nice place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Best Hostels
- The People Hostel – This lively hostel has a fun, social vibe with nightly events and a bar. The dorms are modern and clean, with lockers for your belongings. The common areas are perfect for meeting fellow travelers, and the staff is always happy to help with any questions or concerns.
5. Neudorf – The Most Authentic District in Strasbourg to Stay 🌟
🌳 Residential Gem: For a taste of authentic Strasbourg life away from the tourist crowds, consider staying in the up-and-coming residential area of Neudorf. Located south of the city center across the Ill River, Neudorf offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Strasbourgeois with its quieter streets, local markets, and neighborhood cafes.
⚖️ Old meets New: Neudorf has a mix of old and new, with some historic sections dating back to the 16th century and more modern developments. Highlights of the area include:
- Place du Marché – Lively square with a weekly farmers market
- Deux Rives Garden – Contemporary garden spanning both sides of the Rhine
- Cité de la Musique et de la Danse – Modern complex with music and dance performances
🚉 Easy Access: To reach the city center from Neudorf, you can take the tram (lines A and E) or bus (lines 2, 7, 15, and 21). The journey takes around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, it’s a pleasant 30-40 minute walk along the Ill River.
👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly: Neudorf is particularly appealing for families, as it has a quieter and safer feel than the city center. Kid-friendly attractions in the area include:
- Le Vaisseau – Interactive science and technology museum for children
- Baggersee – Lake with a sandy beach and swimming area
- Poney Parc Waldeck – Pony rides and a small animal park
While Neudorf may not have the concentration of tourist sights found in central Strasbourg, it offers a more authentic and budget-friendly base for exploring the city.
Where to Stay in Neudorf? 🏨
- Ibis Strasbourg Avenue du Rhin – This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the basic amenities you need for a pleasant stay. The location is great, just a short walk from the city center and major attractions. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the breakfast buffet has a good variety of options.
- Appartement 2 chambres avec garage à strasbourg – I really enjoyed my stay at this spacious apartment. It has two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a cozy living area. The apartment is clean and well-maintained, with a nice balcony overlooking the city. The free parking and Wi-Fi are definitely a plus.
Best Hotels near Strasbourg Airport 🛫
Housed in an 18th-century farmstead, Père Benoît oozes rustic French charm. The rooms are spacious, spotlessly clean, and very comfortable. What really stood out was the incredibly warm and accommodating staff – they truly went above and beyond to make my stay pleasant.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine. While a bit farther from the airport than some other options, it’s still conveniently located for accessing both the airport and Strasbourg’s attractions.
2. Kyriad Hotel Strasbourg Lingolsheim
This hotel offers a convenient location just minutes away from the city center. The rooms are clean and nicely appointed, with amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
During my stay, I found the staff to be friendly and the overall value for money to be excellent. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable base near the airport without breaking the bank.
Best Areas & Hotels in Strasbourg on a Map 🗺
FAQs: Strasbourg for Tourists ❔
How many days do you need in Strasbourg?
Two to three days is a good amount of time to experience the highlights of Strasbourg. This charming city packs a lot into a compact area – you can see the stunning cathedral, meander through the picturesque Petite France neighborhood, visit some of the excellent museums, and sample the delicious Alsatian cuisine comfortably in that timeframe.
Do you need a car in Strasbourg?
Not at all! Strasbourg’s city center is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. You’ll be able to stroll from the historic Cathedral district to Petite France to the modern European Quarter all on foot. The public tram system is also excellent for getting around the central areas.
What is the main area of Strasbourg?
The historic Grand Île at the heart of Strasbourg is where you’ll want to spend most of your time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is crisscrossed with picturesque canals and medieval houses. The awe-inspiring Cathedral Notre Dame towers over the old town center here. Nearby, the charming Petite France quarter has a storybook feel with its half-timbered homes and mills lining the Ill River.
Is it expensive to live in Strasbourg?
Compared to many other cities in France, the cost of living in Strasbourg is quite reasonable. Housing costs are well below the nationwide average, whether renting or buying. Groceries, utilities, and public transit are also affordable. Eating out can vary, but there are plenty of budget-friendly options between casual cafes and the higher-end restaurants.
Where to stay in Strasbourg for the christmas market?
You’ll want to stay as centrally located as possible to be within walking distance of the famous Christmas markets. Accommodation right on the Grand Île puts you steps from the main markets around Cathedral Square and Broglie Square. Petite France is another fantastic area – you can wake up to those iconic half-timbered buildings covered in twinkling lights and decorations.
