Petite-France

Local Flavor · Strasbourg ·

Petite-France

Local Flavor · Strasbourg ·

Cobblestone streets, canals, half-timbered homes, panoramic views

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67000 Strasbourg, France Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,700 Cities

"Nothing in life is perfect, but Strasbourg’s historic district, La Petite France , comes pretty close. Located at the west end of the Grand Île (the first entire city center to be named a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its French and German architecture), this picturesque neighborhood is the stuff storybooks are made of, complete with canal bridges and half-timbered homes. Gaze at the sloping rooftops of the 16th-century buildings and imagine the tanners who used to dry their skins in those attics, or picture the fishermen and millers who used to live and work here when it was the poorest area of the city. Buy some salted caramel or raspberry–milk shake macarons at Elisabeth Biscarratat on Rue de la Vignette, then savor them along the ponts couverts that cross the four river channels (these “covered bridges” were built in 1250 to defend the city, but their protective wooden roofs were torn down in 1784). All roads here lead to Place Kleber, a giant square that can be a tad commercial save for the book market on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, and the world-renowned Christmas market, during which a 100-foot tree from the Vosges Mountains takes over the square from the end of November through December."

The Essential Guide to Alsace and Lorraine

Photo by Philippe de Rexel

Petite-France

Flory W.

Yelp

This must be the best part visiting Strasbourg, France! There are so much to see, shops, Notre Dame of Strasbourg, Tanner's Guild. We didn't eat here for lunch or dinner, we have a boat to go to and they're FREE. We did a walking tour here! We like Strasbourg in general, not just that area, but because it was the center of the European Union and many other European organizations. Influenced by both German and French architecture and has a fascinating history. What we like most about it were the storks nest, LOTS & LOTS of them. They keep coming back at the same nest, during spring, and fly south for the winter.

Anton K.

Yelp

Quartier de la Petite in Grand Ile, Strasbourg is a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE since 1988. During Medieval Times this area of Strasbourg was home to many guild craftsmen especially tanners. The Maison des Tanneurs (Home of the Tanner's Guild) dated 1572 lies in the heart of La Petite and is still erect today. It is an area of canals and bridges, as well with clean maintained cobblestone streets. The Pont du Faisan is a swing bride near the center of town along with many footbridges. There are many 16th-17th century picture book half-timber homes to look at with many flower boxes hanging from their windows. When the buildings are lit after dark it presents a fairytale atmosphere. One of the buildings to look for is the House of Kammerzell dated 1427. The Cathedral of Notre-Dame is the centerpiece of the Munsterplatz. Here you will find the cathedral museum, restaurants, cafes, bakeries and shops. If you are interested in authentic Alsace Lorriane cuisine. The restaurant, Au Vieux, is a good bet. It is a block from the cathedral tucked in with a lot of restaurants around it. Another area of Strasbourg worth exploring features the Barrage Vauban (16th century guard towers)on both sides of the river with a long footbridge crossing. This area provides panoramic views of the Pont Couverts and is used by tourists as their starting point to view La Petite. Strasbourg is a post card city full of enchantment, history and great restaurants.

Shelby B.

Yelp

Easily the most beautiful place in all of Strasbourg. It is great to just walk around the streets and alleys and enjoy the scenery. I would highly suggest coming in an off time (like early morning) when there aren't a lot of tourists out, since this area is a huge tourist trap. Eating here is a possibility if you arrive early enough, but there are plenty of bakeries where you could get a snack and ice cafes with great ice cream. Plan to spend a while here!

Ciao Line ..

Yelp

Lovely and charming part of the city. Touristy near the Cathedral. Plenty of cafes and shopping. Clean sidewalks and cobblestone streets. Little markets and coffee shops selling local products. Plenty of public transportation. Areas of construction July 2019 makes car travel slower. Cycling I'd popular here. Green public bikes available.

Tamar K.

Yelp

Just beautiful and a lovely stroll. Places are open late and buildings are lit up after dark. Crowded with tourists but worth it.

Kelley S.

Yelp

These are the views that make you feel like a great photographer. Beautiful buildings, beautiful setting. Snap away, share with your friends and make them jealous of your travels and your photography skills... :D