France
The Waterways of Strasbourg: Boat Tours with a Historical Twist
Taking a boat tour through Strasbourg isn't just a leisurely ride – it's a fascinating journey through time.
Capital of France's Alsace region, on the banks of the River Rhine, Strasbourg is renowned for its picturesque waterways. However, the rivers and canals aren't just scenic: they were vital hubs for trade, industry and transportation that shaped the city for centuries. Today, boat tours offer an immersive and relaxing way to explore Strasbourg's layered history. Whether you’re cruising through the enchanting canals of La Petite France or sailing down the River Ill, exploring by boat reveals a side to the city that you won't experience by walking. So, prepare to give your feet a rest, sit back and enjoy the ride.
Batorama: The grand tour
Arguably the most famous boat tour in Strasbourg, Batorama offers a one-hour guided cruise around the city's highlights. Starting at the Palais Rohan, located near Strasbourg Cathedral, the tour takes you through the Grande Île district and the picturesque La Petite France, immersing you in the city's medieval charm. The cruise continues towards the historic Covered Bridges and the Vauban Dam, which highlight Strasbourg's fortifications. Passing through the Neustadt district, you can admire grand imperial buildings such as the Palace of the Rhine. The journey culminates in the European Quarter, where modern landmarks like the European Parliament and the Council of Europe are symbols of Strasbourg’s role in European governance.
Top tip: The tour is available in multiple languages. There are both covered and open-air boats, for year-round cruising.
Cruise La Petite France
Strasbourg’s charming district of La Petite France is one of the city’s most photographed areas – and for good reason. With its narrow, winding streets, timber-framed houses and colourful flower boxes, it's impossibly picturesque. The district is even more captivating when seen from the water: a boat tour through La Petite France’s canals offers a peaceful and scenic escape, giving you the chance to admire the area’s medieval architecture from a different angle. We recommend staying at Mercure Strasbourg Centre Petite France, a family- and pet-friendly hotel that places you right at the heart of this gorgeous area.
Fun fact: La Petite France was once home to Strasbourg's tanners, fishermen and millers, and the district’s canals were essential for transporting goods.
Discover Grande Île by boat
Strasbourg’s Grande Île (Great Island) is the city’s historical and cultural heart, earning it a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. A boat ride around the island gives you an overview of Strasbourg’s stunning architectural evolution, through medieval, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Highlights include the Strasbourg Cathedral, one of the tallest in Europe, and the Palais Rohan, a masterpiece of French aristocratic architecture. Looking to stay close to the action? Mercure Strasbourg Centre Hotel is in the city centre, with a beautiful panorama from its seventh-floor terrace.
Did you know? The Grande Île is home to over 400 historical buildings, many of which were built between the 15th and 18th centuries.
Strasbourg’s lesser-known waterways
While Batorama and the boat tours around La Petite France are popular, there are plenty of lesser-known routes to explore. The Neudorf district, for example, is a charming area along the Canal de la Marne au Rhin, offering a quieter, more residential atmosphere. This canal was historically used to transport goods, but today it provides a tranquil setting for boat tours that many visitors overlook.
Good to know: The Neudorf district is home to Strasbourg’s lock system, which helps to manage water levels, allowing boats to pass between different sections of the city.
Private boat tours in Strasbourg
If you prefer a more intimate experience, ask the staff at your Mercure hotel about private boat tours in Strasbourg, which offer the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a quiet, personalised outing, these tours allow you to customise your journey. You’ll have your own guide, who can focus on the specific landmarks or historical periods that you’re most interested in.
Local tip: Some private tours offer optional wine or cheese tastings on board, where you can sample the city’s local flavours while floating past centuries-old buildings.
Romantic sunset cruises
In summer, there's no better way to explore Strasbourg than cruising down the city's waterways, with the sun setting behind you, casting a warm glow over the city. As the sky shifts from golden to pink and purple, you’ll glide past illuminated landmarks and quiet neighbourhoods, with the gentle lapping of the water providing the perfect soundtrack.
Insider tip: For the most magical experience, we recommend booking a private sunset cruise. You can sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy the city in a peaceful, intimate setting, away from the crowds.
Boat tours in Strasbourg allow you to see the city from a new perspective, uncover hidden corners and connect with the stories that have shaped this fascinating city. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a peaceful cruise through a beautiful city, a boat tour through Strasbourg is a perfect way to experience its rich past and captivating present. Looking to venture beyond the city? Here are some day trips from Strasbourg to consider.
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