Leaving Amsterdam was much easier than getting there. That is not to say that getting to Strasbourg was exactly “a walk in the park,” though. We left Amsterdam as it was beginning to rain; good timing.
After a 3-hour ride we arrived in Paris at Gare du Nord, which is one of the busiest stations in Europe. From there we had to transfer to Gare d’Est, one metro ride away. I was so proud of myself as I had metro passes from last year. The only problem was that they would not work! The fare had increased, making them invalid. To the vending machines to buy new passes (a fairly frustrating experience), and, we were on our way to Gare d’Est and on to Strasbourg.
Our hotel the Regent Petite France is lovely. It is right on a canal in the most picturesque part of Strasbourg. The hotel was a 17th century former mill where blocks of ice were produced for shops, breweries and private households all over the region. We enjoyed drinks outside in the bar area watching life across the canal.
Because of all the canals, there are lots of pedestrian bridges. There is a system of locks whereby the tour boats can navigate the canals. The bridges swing open with the pedestrian walkways closed until the boats pass and then bridges swing back into place, a very efficient operation.
A few important facts about Strasbourg: 1) the European Parliament, the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights are located in Strasbourg; 2) there is a square called Gutenberg Square in honor of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of letterpress printing (which square at the moment has a merry-go-round situated there), as he lived in Strasbourg for 10 years and 3) the Cathedral of our Lady of Strasbourg, known as the Strasbourg Cathedral, is the sixth tallest church in the world and the highest structure built entirely in the Middle Ages still existing. The Cathedral is among the finest examples of “high, or late Gothic architecture.”
Strasbourg is the Alsace region of France in western France. It is a region that has at various times been part of both France and Germany. Interestingly, although definitely a part of France, the half-timbered houses convey a German ambiance. The Alsatian cuisine is also more German oriented with pork, sausages and sauerkraut.
The historic part of Strasbourg is ideal for walking, as evidenced by the number of tourists walking the streets. During the day there were lots of tour groups being led around to the various sites; it is not easy to get a good picture of the cathedral without tourists! The restaurants are spread all over the old town area, but, the most picturesque ones are located on the canals. We enjoyed a lunch in a restaurant situated on a canal, which is where I took the above picture of Strasbourg looking across the canal.
Loving these. I so enjoy starting the day reading and looking at the great pictures. Thank you!
Thank you! It is fun doing it, so, I am really happy to share our adventures, some better than others! Donna
Beautiful pictures and great report. Glad things are getting easier on the ‘rails’….
Thank you! We still have a few rail,challenges coming up! Donna
VERY CHARMING CITY! Thanks for lovely photos.
You are most welcome! Donna
Now, I am jealous as Strasbourg is so special! The cellist is a perfect picture; busking at its most professional best. Enjoy the great wines of the region, Mimi
I was really lucky to get the picture of the cellist. I had to be patient to get him alone! we are doing our best to enjoy the wines. . .and beers of the region. Donna
Donna,
Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. I am learning a lot about some of the countries I’ve visited but not the areas you are touring. Love the photos!
Donna,
Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. I am learning a lot about some of the countries I’ve visited but not the areas you are touring. Love the photos!
Thank you! There are a few adventures that Steve would have like to have avoided, but, he is being a really good sport. There are so many beautiful areas, so little time! Donna
I have never been to Strasbourg and your photos make it look entrancing, great photography! I love reading about your daily travels. Caroline
Thank you! Strasbourg is very picturesque, which makes it easy to take good photos.
Great sharing.
Not going to say much since you have to read and respond to ‘ Comments’ after writing all this great info.
You all have fun.
Thank you! I enjoy reading the comments, so do not mind responding at all!
You never cease to amaze me Donna!!
I had been traveling for several days so I’m catching up on all your posts at one time.
You should look into how you can turn this into a professional travel blog so that many more people could view it!
Thank you for all the complimentary comments! I saw the perfect t-shirt for me today; it read “I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” We have been super lucky with the weather. We are now in Austria, and, the daytime temperatures are in the mid to high 70s. More to come. Donna