STRASBOURG AND ALSACE
Strasbourg, as European capital, is a beautiful city highly attractive for tourists, offering many visiting options : History, Arts, Entertainments, Food. You probably know the famous Strasbourg Christmas market, but you will also fall under its summer spell .
Alsace, the smallest French region, spreads between the Rhine and the Vosges mountains. Alsace is well-known for its strong traditions, dialect, savoury food and drink, For sure you'll appreciate to taste them !
LA PETITE FRANCE
One of the most lovely area of Strasbourg is "La Petite France". It is a charming spot on the south-western island with paved streets and half-timbered typical houses, overlooking channels. This neighborhood belongs to the UNESCO World Heritage since 1988. It is a key place of your visit in Strasbourg There are two ways to discover it : - Either you can stroll around alleys and bridges, - Or get onboard on one of the riverboat, sailing from sluice to sluice in the heart of the city. If you hesitate : Do both ! Most of the streets or places have been named after local crafts and trades : fishmongers, tanners and millers. Have a look at the steep roofs with small openings. They were drying sheds for animal skins or leather. Why is this neighborhood called "La Petite France" ? During the 15th century, an hospital was standing there attending to French soldiers back from the Napoli's battle, carrying sexual disease. The "petite vérole", known todays as siphylis, was also called "French Disease" ou "Petite Française", and that name still remains...
CHRISTMAS MARKET OF STRASBOURG
If you wish to visit Strasbourg, the most emblematic period is during December when takes place the Christmas Market. The whole city wears its lightening clothes and gets a magic look. A frenetic mob walks in the Market, searching for presents, gingerbread cakes, or tree decorations ! You will surely interested in drinking Gluehwein or eating some "tartes flambées" Strasbourg ? nice on summer, OK ! But come back on December, you will fall under the spell of our dreamlike city !
