Day 18 – September 5, 2026

Falling for Strasbourg

Today was my first full day in Strasbourg, and by the end of it I completely understood why so many people fall in love with this city.

After breakfast at Hotel Léonor, we set out on foot, taking our time wandering through La Petite France before the crowds really built up. It is every bit as charming as its reputation suggests. Half-timbered houses reflected in the canals, flower-filled bridges, gently flowing water, and narrow cobblestone streets created one beautiful scene after another. Every corner seemed worthy of a photograph, yet the greatest pleasure came simply from strolling without rushing anywhere, soaking in the atmosphere of a neighborhood that somehow feels both lively and peaceful at the same time.

The highlight of the morning was joining the Happy Free Strasbourg walking tour with our guide, Gabriel. For about two hours he brought the city’s history to life with an engaging mix of facts, humor, and storytelling. Rather than simply pointing out buildings, he explained how Alsace spent centuries moving back and forth between France and Germany, leaving behind layers of culture, language, architecture, and traditions that make Strasbourg unlike anywhere else in France. Seeing Gothic churches alongside Germanic timber-framed houses suddenly made perfect sense. Gabriel also shared plenty of amusing local stories and historical anecdotes that transformed streets and squares into living history.

By the time the tour ended, something unexpected happened—the line for the cathedral had disappeared. We had intentionally waited to experience it together, and the timing couldn’t have been better.

The Strasbourg Cathedral exceeded every expectation.

Its exterior is simply breathtaking. The sheer scale of the sandstone façade, covered with impossibly intricate carvings, statues, and delicate Gothic details, makes it difficult to know where to look first. Standing beneath it, I felt remarkably small. It is one of those rare buildings whose photographs, no matter how beautiful, never fully prepare you for seeing it in person.

Inside, the soaring columns and filtered light created a completely different feeling—quiet, reverent, and awe-inspiring. It was one of those places where history, architecture, craftsmanship, and faith come together in a way that leaves a lasting impression.

For lunch we found Picobello, where we shared two salads so we could try more of the menu. One featured creamy burrata with prosciutto, while the other combined tender octopus with fresh vegetables. Splitting them turned out to be the perfect decision—both were fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.

The afternoon was filled with leisurely shopping through Strasbourg’s independent boutiques. One of the most enjoyable discoveries was Magneto, a fun little shop full of colorful clothing and accessories. I found a cute blouse along with a pair of playful sunglasses, while my friend discovered an incredibly bright striped pullover that instantly put a smile on her face. Watching her excitement over the purchase made the shopping even more enjoyable.

Dinner introduced me to another Alsatian classic. Following a local recommendation, I ordered Bouchée à la Reineserved with Spätzle, accompanied by a glass of crisp Riesling. The rich, creamy pastry filled with tender meat paired beautifully with the handmade noodles, while the wine balanced everything perfectly. It felt like exactly the kind of comforting regional meal I had hoped to experience in Alsace.

Rather than heading straight back, we wandered through Strasbourg’s softly illuminated streets, enjoying how the city transforms after dark. The historic buildings, quiet squares, and warm lights created a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere.

Back at Hotel Léonor, the evening ended in the best possible way. We settled into the beautiful courtyard with another pot of Marriage Frères Milky Blue tea. My friend, who has been carefully monitoring her blood sugar, wisely declined dessert, leaving me with the difficult task of eating an entire Paris-Brest all by myself. Fortunately—or perhaps unfortunately—it was absolutely spectacular. Filled with silky praline cream and perfectly balanced between lightness and indulgence, it was one of the best desserts I’ve had on this trip. I accepted my burden without complaint.

Today was a reminder that some cities reveal themselves gradually. Strasbourg isn’t just beautiful—it has personality, depth, and a fascinating history shaped by two cultures. After only one full day, I already feel myself becoming attached to it.

Tomorrow brings another perspective on the city—from the water.