Just two hours 20 minutes from Paris on the new TGV Est service, Strasbourg is easy to get to for a short break and is a great base for exploring the area. This beautiful city, close to the German border in Alsace, is the home of the European Parliament as well as some fine medieval architecture.
- Passing through?
The famous Cathedral of Notre Dame is a vast Gothic structure built of pink sandstone that beautifully reflects the colours of the changing sky. Wooden figures of the apostles appear on the charming astronomical clock.
- Staying a while?
Explore the banks of the River Rhine and the lakes, mountains and villages of the surrounding countryside.
- The inside track...
Visit the Petite France quarter, one of the prettiest and oldest parts of the city with its half-timbered houses. Be sure to sample the local food, reflecting the area's rural Alsatian roots: specialities include sauerkraut and flambe tart.
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