If you're on a low budget and wish to discover some local French culture, Strasbourg is definitely a good place! Come and immerse yourself in the Alsatian culture, discover the region's history, the typical delicacies and cuisine and the beautiful landscapes.
Strasbourg will surprise you with its magic (and first ever) Christmas market in winter and with its chilled & animated summer lifestyle!
If you come in December visit the Christmas Market: Strasbourg has been holding Christkindelsmärik around its cathedral since 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe! Let the cinnamon scents and magical feel guide your way through the wooden stands....
What I recommend to eat: famous typical "choucroute" (=sauer cabbage with various meats), "bibleskäse" (potatoes with cream) or "Bäckeoffa" (meat with carrots, onions with spaetzele) accompanied by a sweet "Gewürtzraminer" (white wine) to eat local delicious food!
A means of transport, a tram + bus ticket with unlimited trips valid for 24 hours is worth 4, 10E (and 6E if there are 2 to 3 travelers) ! Also, you can also rent bikes "vélhop" for only 5E / day! They are super convenient since Strasbourg is not very big and you can travel around very easily(with 560km: Strasbourg offers the biggest cycle-friendly network in France!)
Where to go out: You will find many lively and friendly bars around La Place Gutenberg, places such as "Les Frères Berthom", "Dubliners" or a bit further towards La Grand Rue you shall find "L'Atelier de Grand Père". My personal favorite is "Jeannette et Les Cycleux" where you will find a unique ambiance with old bikes and chairs, delicious drinks and home-made snacks!
If you're a party reveler, Strasbourg's nightlife will amaze you : "Le Café des Anges", "Le Living" and "La Salamandre" are located in the university area called "Krutenau". My personal favorites are the clubs located on the ships (barges) such as "Le Raffiot".
La Cathédrale right in the center of the city: emblematic of Strasbourg, the Cathédrale is an unmissable landmark! If you're the athletic type, walk up its 300 stairs and enjoy a great view on the whole city!
Le quartier de la Petite France: located within the city, it's a place where people come to rest, chill and have a relaxing time in the park and by the water which runs through it. You will find many students laying in the grass, older people sitting on benches, kids playing on swings. This is the perfect place to come relax after a day of walking around or shopping!
This is the largest square of Strasbourg, situated right in the center of the city and its commercial area. The square has numerous attractions like the Aubette Palace and the statue of Kleber, after whom the square has been named. Apart from the history of the Place Kleber, due to which it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, numerous luxury and other brands also have shops here.
Another square in Strasbourg, this particular one has been named after the inventor of the modern printing press - Johann Gutenberg, whose statue adorns the square. The Place Gutenberg is also the location of the Chambers of Commerce, which are housed in an old Renaissance styled building. There are also many cafes and restaurants located in the square.
Austerlitz has now been refurbished, and apart from having a wonderful market, it also has an art installation which depicts Strasbourg in a miniature relief map.
The Seat of the European Parliament in Strasbourg is located here; situated right in the city, it is easily accessible by tram. It is worth visiting this place where many decisions are taken (visits only on specific days, booking required)
On your way to the Parliament stop in this huge park where you can rent out a pedal boat, feed the swans and have a look at the animals in the free zoo !