Strasbourg, culinary city tour with tastings in the new town

If you’re heading to Strasbourg and want to experience more than just its famous old town, a culinary tour of the Neustadt district might be just the thing. This 3-hour walking adventure offers a taste of the city’s German-influenced architecture, intriguing history, and a variety of delicious bites and drinks. It’s a great way to see a different side of Strasbourg that most travelers often overlook.

What really caught our eye about this tour is how it combines gastronomy, culture, and history seamlessly. Plus, it’s led by Céline, a local with deep roots and a genuine passion for sharing her knowledge. On the flip side, since this is a small-group experience with limited spots, you’ll want to book early if you’re keen to join. Overall, it’s perfect for foodies, architecture lovers, and those curious about Strasbourg’s past who prefer a relaxed, intimate vibe.

One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t focus solely on Alsatian specialties—so if you’re craving traditional local dishes, you might want to supplement this experience. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of cultural insights and tasty samples, rather than just a food-only tasting.

If you’re looking for a good introduction to Strasbourg’s new district that balances food, sights, and stories, this tour could be just right. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Points

• Explores Strasbourg’s Neustadt district, built after 1871, with its impressive architecture and historical sites.
• Includes 4 to 5 carefully selected stops featuring food, drinks, and cultural insights.
• Led by Céline, a knowledgeable local guide passionate about sharing her city.
• Offers a mix of gastronomy, history, and architecture for a well-rounded experience.
• Suitable for those with an interest in history, architecture, and good food, though not ideal for those with dietary restrictions or mobility issues.
• Cost reflects good value, considering the tastings, guided insights, and the intimate group size.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Strasbourg’s Neustadt: A Deep Dive

When planning a visit to Strasbourg, most travelers start with the old town, but the Neustadt district deserves a good look, especially if you’re drawn to architecture and history. Built after the Alsace region was taken over by Prussia in 1871, this neighborhood is like a snapshot of late 19th-century European design, blending neoclassical, neo-Renaissance, and neo-Gothic styles.

The district has earned recognition on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2017, thanks to its architectural cohesion and historical significance. As you walk through wide avenues and past impressive buildings like the Palais du Rhin or the University Library, you get a sense of Strasbourg’s political and cultural importance during that period.

But this tour isn’t just about sights; it’s about experiencing the district’s flavor—literally. Céline’s choices of stops are thoughtfully curated to give you a taste of French and Alsatian delicacies while unveiling stories behind the buildings and the area’s past.

Starting Point and Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Place Broglie, a lively square and central point in Strasbourg. From there, your guide will lead you to Place de la République, spending about 20 minutes soaking in the ambiance and historic buildings. This spot is a great introduction to the area’s architecture and history.

Next, you’ll visit the Palais Universitaire, where a guided tour of around 20 minutes offers a peek into the academic and political history that shaped the district. The University Library stands nearby—another impressive site adorned with sculptures and neoclassical details.

A highlight is the Jardin Botanique de l’Université, where you’ll get another 20-minute guided exploration. It’s a peaceful spot that contrasts with the grandeur of the surrounding buildings and offers a moment of calm and greenery in the city.

What About the Tastings?

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit 4 to 5 locations that serve a mixture of savory, sweet, and drinks. Céline, with her food industry background, has carefully selected these spots to showcase what Strasbourg’s new town has to offer. Expect to sample French delicacies and Alsatian treats—possibly some tapas-style bites, pastries, and local drinks.

Given the cost of $111 per person, the tastings are quite a good deal, considering they include food, drinks, and insider tips. The experience is designed to be more than just a food crawl; it’s about understanding the neighborhood’s history and architecture while tasting some of its best offerings.

The Guide and Group Size

Céline’s background as a native and her experience as a food blogger and tourism freelancer shine through in her storytelling. The small group of only 6 participants ensures an intimate experience, allowing for questions and personalized insights. She’s bilingual and offers content in French and German, which adds to the authentic local feel.

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Practical Details

• Meeting Point: In front of the Opéra National du Rhin, at the obelisk.
• Duration: Around 3 hours, which makes it a manageable half-day activity.
• Includes: Guided walk, tastings, insider tips brochure, seating.
• Not Included: Additional food/drinks, museum entries, souvenirs.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, and not recommended for babies under 1 year, vegans, or those with specific food allergies.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Beyond the obvious allure of tasting local flavors, the architecture and history are the real stars. The district’s buildings, such as the Palais du Rhin and the University Palace, tell stories of Strasbourg’s past as a crossroad of cultures and powers. The tour balances visual grandeur with narrative richness, giving you context about why these structures matter.

The insider knowledge offered by Céline adds depth. She’s enthusiastic about sharing her hometown’s secrets and stories, which you’ll find makes the experience more personal and engaging. Reviewers mention her as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “passionate”—which makes a considerable difference in such a small-group setting.

Food and Drink

The tastings receive praise for being delicious and well-curated. One reviewer notes, “The food was excellent, and the guide’s recommendations made the tasting stops even better.” Others mention that the experience “offered a good mix of sweet and savory” and appreciated the inclusion of drinks—perfect for those who enjoy a sip while exploring.

While not focused solely on Alsatian specialties, the variety ensures most will find something to enjoy. If you’re eager to try more local delicacies, you might consider supplementing this tour with an additional food experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This culinary walk is ideal if you want an engaging introduction to Strasbourg’s Neustadt with a good balance of architecture, history, and food. It’s perfect for food lovers, architecture buffs, and history enthusiasts who prefer a relaxed pace, small groups, and insightful commentary.

However, if you have specific dietary restrictions, mobility issues, or require a very specialized food experience, this tour might not be the best fit. Also, those expecting a focus solely on Alsatian cuisine should note that the tasting stops are varied.

Final Thoughts

This Strasbourg Neustadt culinary tour offers a thoughtful blend of sights, stories, and bites. The small-group setting, guided by Céline’s local expertise, makes it a memorable way to explore a less touristy part of the city. The tastings, combined with architectural and historical insights, make for a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just eating.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and tasty introduction to Strasbourg’s new district, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy learning about your destination while indulging in some good food and drinks, all in a friendly, intimate setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not specifically designed for kids, especially babies under 1 year old. The activity involves walking and tastings, so younger children or those with food allergies or dietary restrictions might find it less suitable.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 3 hours, including stops for tastings and sightseeing.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The guide offers content in both French and German, and some parts are shown in their original language. The group is small, so you can ask questions comfortably.

Are the tastings enough for a meal?
While the stops provide 4 to 5 tastings, they are meant as samples. You might want to have a light meal before or after, depending on your appetite.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, as the walk involves some uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. A water bottle might be useful too.

Does the tour include museum or sight entry fees?
No, those are not included.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
If you have specific needs, it’s best to inform the provider in advance, though the tour may not be suitable for vegans or people with certain allergies.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personal experience with plenty of interaction.

If you’re curious about Strasbourg’s Neustadt district and want a taste of its architecture, culture, and flavors, this tour offers a friendly, manageable way to learn and indulge. Just plan ahead and enjoy every bite and story along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: