Before Christmas Strasbourg attracts tourists to its market but it is an interesting city to visit any time. Strasbourg is also the seat of the European Parliament and its city center is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Strasbourg is a picturesque Alsatian city known as a business and religious center. The city combines historic atmosphere with modern venues. Tourists from the whole Europe are lured to the city during Advent. They are attracted to the famous traditional Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik. The tradition goes back to the second half of the sixteenth century. Strasbourg used to belong to both Germany and France in the past and the influence of both nations is present in architecture, gastronomy and the culture of the region.
According to Novinky.cz, Christmas markets in Strasbourg create a unique frienly atmosphere. Strolling among stalls one can smell mulled wine and fried almonds. Tourists, however, visit the city also in other seasons. The most interesting part of Strasbourg is undoubtedly the historic city center which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was made up only of the current city center up to 19th century. Nevertheless, the newly created neighborhood also has its charm.
An important sight in the city center is the Strasbourg Cathedral, which is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture. Along the river, there is a neighborhood called Petite France, which is famous for its timber-framed buildings and numerous cafes. The Palais Rohan, former seat of cardinals, is definitely worth seeing as well.
Last but not least, Strasbourg is one of the seats of the European Parliament. Tourists can visit plenary meetings if they are older than 14. Informatory visits are organized for groups of 20 to 45 people. During the tours, tourists can meet a MEP and familiarize themselves with the organizational structure of the institution.