Crossing Borders: 5 Day Trips from Strasbourg to Nearby Towns

Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Grand Est region, is a treasure trove of European history, culture and cuisine. It was originally a Celtic village and later a Roman garrison town. The Franks captured the city in the fifth century and renamed it "Strateburgum", which explains the origin of its name. While there's plenty to discover in this beautiful city, it's also a springboard to exploring Germany just across the iconic River Rhine. This fascinating region is defined by a unique blend of French and German influences, which you can experience on one of these day trips from Strasbourg.

Kehl is a charming town on the opposite bank of the Rhine, so it’s incredibly easy to visit on a day trip from Strasbourg. We recommend crossing the border on foot via the Passerelle des Deux Rives (Footbridge of Two Banks), a stunning pedestrian bridge with beautiful views of Strasbourg. You can also take a short trip by tram or bus. The charming Kehl Promenade is a great spot for a leisurely walk or cycle along the Rhine, and there are plenty of riverside cafés where you can enjoy fresh coffee and light bites. It’s so close to Strasbourg that you can easily spend a few hours exploring before heading back across the river.

For a more immersive German experience, take a day trip from Strasbourg into the Black Forest (Schwarzwald). Freiburg im Breisgau is a medieval city with charming cobbled streets, Bächle (tiny canals running through the city centre), and a vibrant university atmosphere. To fully enjoy this day trip from Strasbourg, make sure to leave enough time to explore the Münsterplatz (cathedral square) and Freiburg Minster’s Gothic architecture. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleyways of the old town, then head to the panoramic terrace at Mercure Hotel Panorama Freiburg's Mediterranean bar on the edge of the Black Forest for refreshments and stunning views. And of course, don't forget to try a slice of Black Forest Gâteau. Trains depart regularly from Strasbourg and take just over an hour, or you could drive (it's about 100 kilometres south) in around 75 minutes. 

Stuttgart is the regional capital of Baden-Württemberg. Known for its automotive industry – it’s home to Mercedes-Benz and Porsche – Stuttgart has a rich cultural heritage, impressive museums, stunning architecture and beautiful parks. The Mercedes-Benz Museum traces the history of the motor car, from its invention in 1886 by Carl Benz via iconic models like the extraordinary Gullwing to the marque’s recent prowess in the F1 circuit.

For a spot of relaxation, a day trip from Strasbourg to Baden-Baden allows you to immerse yourself in this elegant spa town’s thermal baths, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush gardens. We suggest that you first enjoy a leisurely stroll in the picturesque Lichtentaler Allee park, then visit the Friedrichsbad, a Romanesque-Irish bathhouse, for a truly indulgent experience. It’s also worth exploring the town’s charming streets, boutiques, cafés and restaurants. You can then round off your visit at the iconic Casino Baden-Baden, a stunning example of Belle Époque architecture.

Our last suggestion doesn't require crossing borders at all. After all, you couldn’t come to this magnificent region without making some stops on the Alsace Wine Route – in particular, Riquewihr and Colmar. Riquewihr is a delightful medieval town famous for its half-timbered houses, fountains and old wells. Stop at the Dolder, the city’s emblem and gate, which houses a museum.

Colmar, about an hour south of Strasbourg, is the capital of the Alsace wine region. With its cobblestone streets and old town lined with half-timbered medieval and early Renaissance buildings, it transports you back a thousand years. For a deeper connection to Alsatian gastronomy, stop at Mercure Colmar Centre Unterlinden Hotel in the city's historic heart, where the breakfast buffet includes local specialties like tarte flambée, Kouglof cakes and charcuterie. Or head over to their wine bar to chat to the sommelier, who'll be delighted to share their knowledge about the flavours and aromas of the region's different grape varieties.

If you have some spare time during your stay in Strasbourg, consider exploring some German vineyards, taking a Rhine river cruise or simply wandering the region's medieval villages. Each destination has its own unique charm, and the easy cross-border connections and diverse range of attractions make these day trips accessible and unforgettable.