Historical Neighborhoods of Strasbourg | Local Expert Guide
Robertsau (The Roberts Meadow)
Originally named after Knight Robert Bock's castle from around 1200, Robertsau evolved from Strasbourg's market garden district (affectionately nicknamed "Laüch" - the leek) into an upscale residential area. Today, this verdant neighborhood near European institutions features:
- Pourtalès Castle with its English-style gardens
- Bussière Farm
- Traditional half-timbered houses
- Direct tram access (Line E) to city center (15 min) and station (30 min)
Le Wacken
A historic island surrounded by former Rhine riverbeds, Wacken transforms from noble countryside retreats to Strasbourg's premier business district:
- European Parliament headquarters
- Exhibition Center (hosting European Fair since 1932)
- Palace of Music and Congress
- Wacken-Europe international business district
- Access via Tram Line B (20 min to center)
The Fifteen District (Quartier des Quinze)
Named after Strasbourg's historical "Council of XV," this neighborhood features:
- Unique urban planning from German annexation period
- Rotterdam City housing complex (800 units)
- Tram Line F terminus at Place d'Islande
Orangerie Park District
A 26-hectare English-style green space facing the European Council:
- Designed by André Le Nôtre in early 19th century
- Free zoo and stork reintroduction center
- Josephine Pavilion
- Orthodox Russian Church
- Accessible via Tram Line E ("Human Rights" stop)
The Neustadt (Imperial Quarter)
UNESCO World Heritage district developed during the German annexation (1871-1919):
- Premier example of preserved German Imperial architecture
- Mix of neo-classical and Art Nouveau styles
- Notable landmarks:
- Republic Square
- Rhine Palace
- National Theater
- National University Library
- Central Station
- Served by Tram lines B, C, E, and F
Krutenau
Historical market garden district transformed into a vibrant student quarter:
- Traditional half-timbered houses
- Lively bars and restaurants
- Notable sites:
- Raven's Courtyard
- Law Faculty
- Former Tobacco Factory
- Access via Tram lines A and D
Historic City Center
Ancient island surrounded by the Ill River, dating to 3rd century BC:
- Strasbourg Cathedral (142m spire)
- Medieval streets and colorful timber houses
- Gutenberg's printing press history
- Car-free zone with extensive tram network
- Major events:
- Christmas Market
- Strasbourg Carnival
- Summer festivals
Petite France Quarter
The most picturesque district in Strasbourg's historic center, dating from 16th-17th centuries:
- Former tanners' and millers' district
- Perfectly preserved colorful half-timbered houses
- Cobblestone streets and scenic canals
- Key attractions:
- Vauban Dam
- Covered Bridges with four towers
- Tanners' House
- Modern Art Museum
- Accessible via Tram lines A, B, and F
Cronenbourg (Crown Royal Borough)
Western district known for its brewing heritage:
- Former Roman suburb of Argentoratum
- Historical Kronemburg Castle site
- Famous for Kronenbourg brewery (1850-present)
- New eco-district development
- Annual NL Contest: International Urban Culture Festival
- Served by Tram lines A and D
Neudorf (New Village)
Strasbourg's most populous modern district:
- 19th-century development
- Cultural hub featuring:
- Music and Dance City
- Malraux Media Library
- Eco-friendly port transformation
- Urban waterfront development
- Connected by Tram lines A, D, and E
Kehl
German border town closely linked to Strasbourg:
- Cross-border integration example
- Two Rivers Garden
- Direct connection via Tram line D
- Pedestrian and cycling bridge
- Popular leisure destination
Photographies fournies par l'office du tourisme de Strasbourg - www.visitstrasbourg.fr.