Strasbourg along the Ill: visit the city from the river

The river journey starts from the Vauban dam, offering a splendid view of the outskirts of the city. The covered bridges that can be seen in the distance with their fortified towers set the tone for the medieval period that once reigned in Strasbourg. Soon enough, you have to look to the right to contemplate the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, a cubic architecture covered in glass panels. The walk gives you the impression of travelling back in time between relics of the past and futuristic architecture.

The walk continues between the Mathiss and Marc Bloch quays to reach the Louis Pasteur bridge. On the banks just before the bridge, you will notice a huge tree, the Euro-American poplar, native to North America and the only one recorded in Strasbourg. Its triangular leaves, usually green, turn yellow in autumn.

At the next crossroads, turn left towards the Quai Louis Pasteur and continue along the shore to the Parc du Heyritz, a green space that follows the flow of the river and extends over several hectares. At its centre is a children's esplanade with picnic tables.

A few metres further on, a new green setting borders the river. The much more industrialised Parc de l'Etoile offers another facet of the city, modern and dynamic but just as welcoming.

The Chagall footbridge spans the river, linking the Esplanade district to the Malraux peninsula. If you're feeling thirsty, the Barco Latino, a small barge moored on the River Ill, offers delicious cocktails in a picture-postcard setting. Palm trees, straw huts, banana trees and sunshine are all part of this Cuban interlude.

Along the Quai des Alpes, a small mar ina draws our attention on the right. Captain Bretzel is an original place, a floating terrace with parasols in summer and transformed into an igloo in winter, where several groups can enjoy a fondue.

The adventure doesn't stop there, as the address also has a marina where you can hire boats with private skippers or electric racing cars without a licence. It's the perfect opportunity to take a cruise with family or friends and discover Strasbourg from the river, with a 360° view. This river attraction features spacious boats, attentive staff and a 2-hour crossing.

Following on from the Quai des Alpes, a garden emerges on the left. This is the Parc de la Citadelle, much loved by the people of Strasbourg. It has several basketball courts, children's playgrounds and sports facilities for those who want to keep fit. Everyone is welcome, even pets. A dog area is available so that pooches can also enjoy the lawns.

Opposite the garden, a museum specially designed for children introduces them to the world of science. It's a fun way to experiment and play with the elements, such as light, and discover optical illusions.

A sensory trail awaits the little ones outside, where they can observe the flora and fauna. A pretty trail has been designed just for them. It's an introductory yet fun workshop where learning is the order of the day. Nearby, in the Citadelle basin, we recommend a stop at the Citadelle Lighthouse. It's the perfect place to enjoy a drink on a terrace on the banks of the River Ill.

You can explore Strasbourg's waters by walking up the rampart basin to the Russian Orthodox Church, a religious edifice much loved by photographers and curious passers-by. Located just a few metres from the Parc de l'Orangerie, it is one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches in France. Its architecture is directly inspired by the traditional Russian style of the Middle Ages and contrasts with the surrounding landscape. It resembles a delicious meringue, with its airy curves and pointed gables.

The building is covered by a magnificent turquoise roof and 3 onion-shaped domes, typical of Russian Orthodox buildings. Each is topped by a golden spire. Inside, sobriety is the order of the day.

Every Sunday afternoon, the monument opens its doors to visitors accompanied by a Russian-speaking guide who tells the story of this magical place.

The route ends in the heart of the city's European quarter. On the banks of the Quai Jacoutot, the European Parliament stands proudly in front of us. A circular building surrounded by metal rings of different sizes. The city of Strasbourg was chosen after the Second World War to host the European institutions, a symbolic location for the city at the crossroads of Europe.

At Zehnerglock, you can enjoy traditional regional dishes, but that's not all! The kitchen is dedicated to perpetuating recipes from French gastronomy, such as the excellent bouchées à la reine. Generous recipes made from quality ingredients are the mantra of this typical Strasbourg restaurant.