Is Petite France in Strasbourg worth visiting?

Yes, it is widely considered the most picturesque part of Strasbourg. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its 16th-century half-timbered houses and historic canal system.

What is the best time for a self-guided walk in Petite France?

Early morning (before 9:30 AM) is best to avoid the large crowds and capture the best photos. Alternatively, the evening offers a romantic atmosphere when the buildings are illuminated.

Can I see the Ponts Couverts for free?

Yes, the Ponts Couverts and the Barrage Vauban are public structures. You can walk across the bridges and access the panoramic roof of the Barrage Vauban at no cost.

Is this walking route suitable for people with limited mobility?

The route is flat, which is helpful, but the historic district is almost entirely paved with uneven cobblestones. The Barrage Vauban panoramic level is accessible via an elevator.

Where is the best place for photos in Petite France?

The roof of the Barrage Vauban offers the best panoramic view of the bridges and cathedral. For street-level shots, the corner of Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes near the Maison des Tanneurs is iconic.

What does the name 'Petite France' mean?

The name has a dark origin; it refers to a 15th-century hospice located here that treated soldiers with syphilis, which was then known as the 'French disease' (mal français).

Can I do this walk at night?

Yes, the area is very safe and beautifully lit at night. However, the panoramic terrace of the Barrage Vauban usually closes around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM depending on the season.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step back in time to 16th-century Alsace with this self-guided walking route through Petite France, Strasbourg's most enchanting neighborhood. Known as the 'Quartier des Tanneurs' (Tanners' District), this area is a masterclass in preserved history and timber-framed architecture. On this neighborhood stroll, you will explore the narrow cobblestone alleys where fishermen, millers, and tanners once lived and worked along the banks of the River Ill. This walking tour Strasbourg highlights the transition of the city from a medieval defensive powerhouse to a hub of trade and craftsmanship. What makes this independent stroll special is the chance to witness the unique 'colombage' (half-timbered) houses that look as if they have been plucked from a storybook. You will discover why these buildings have such distinctive steeply pitched roofs and learn the secrets behind the massive medieval towers that still stand guard over the waterways. The route takes you from the bustling locks of Pont Saint-Martin to the panoramic heights of the Barrage Vauban, offering some of the best photography spots in the city. As you follow this walking tour Strasbourg, you will delve into the history of the tanners, whose trade defined the neighborhood’s layout and even its smell for centuries. Beyond the history, the route captures the romantic atmosphere of the canals, where the water reflects centuries-old facades and blooming flower boxes. Whether you are interested in the engineering of 17th-century fortifications or simply want to find the most Instagram-worthy corners of the Grand Île, this audio walk provides the context you need to appreciate the architectural evolution of this UNESCO World Heritage site at your own pace.

Highlights

Marvel at the iconic 16th-century Maison des Tanneurs

Walk the historic cobblestones of Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes

Capture panoramic views of the city from the Barrage Vauban

See the four medieval towers of the Ponts Couverts

Learn about the traditional tanning industry and Alsatian architecture

Watch boats navigate the locks at Pont Saint-Martin

Tour Stops (6)

Pont Saint-Martin

Begin your exploration at Pont Saint-Martin, one of the most atmospheric entry points into Petite France. From this bridge, you get a perfect view of the river locks and the rushing water of the Ill. Historically, this was a vital spot for the city's mills. Look toward the water to see how the houses seem to rise directly from the river. This bridge offers a clear view of the complex waterway system that once powered the local economy. It is also a prime spot to watch the 'Batorama' canal boats navigate the narrow locks, a feat of precision that bridges the gap between the modern city and its medieval roots.

Place Benjamin Zix

Named after a famous local illustrator from the Napoleonic era, Place Benjamin Zix is the beating heart of Petite France. This small, triangular square is shaded by ancient plane trees and surrounded by some of the most beautiful half-timbered buildings in Alsace. In the past, this was a busy marketplace where local artisans gathered. Today, it is a peaceful spot to observe the intricate woodwork of the surrounding facades. Notice the varying colors and patterns in the timber frames; these weren't just decorative but often indicated the profession or status of the homeowner. It is a perfect place to pause and soak in the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.

Maison Des Tanneurs - Gerwerstub

Standing before you is perhaps the most famous building in Strasbourg: the Maison des Tanneurs, built in 1572. This former tannery is a classic example of Alsatian architecture. Look up at the top floor—notice the open galleries under the roof? This wasn't for style; tanners used these ventilated spaces to hang animal hides to dry in the wind. The building was converted into a restaurant in 1949, but its exterior remains a perfectly preserved relic of the leather-working trade that dominated this district for centuries. The dark wood and white plaster reflect the traditional 'colombage' style that defines the region’s visual identity.

Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes

Wander down Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes, one of the most photogenic streets in the city. The name translates to 'Plant Bath Street,' referring to the public baths that were once located here. As you walk, observe the narrowness of the street and the way the upper floors of the houses lean outward over the cobblestones. This 'jettying' technique was used to maximize floor space on upper levels while keeping the ground-level footprint small, which was taxed based on size. The street is lined with geranium-filled window boxes and carved wooden doorways, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of Strasbourg's historic merchant class.

Ponts Couverts

The Ponts Couverts, or 'Covered Bridges,' are a set of three bridges and four massive stone towers that formed part of Strasbourg's 13th-century defensive walls. Interestingly, the bridges haven't actually been 'covered' since the 18th century, but the name stuck. These towers served as prisons and defensive bastions for centuries. As the city’s defenses evolved, these medieval structures were integrated into newer systems, yet they remain one of the most iconic silhouettes in the city. Standing here, you can see the clear divide between the old timber-framed Petite France and the more modern expansions of the city beyond the waterways.

Barrage Vauban

Conclude your walk at the Barrage Vauban, a defensive dam and bridge built in the late 17th century by the famous French military engineer Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban. Its primary purpose was to flood the lands south of the city during an attack, making Strasbourg impenetrable. Today, its greatest draw is the 'Panorama' terrace on the roof. From this elevated vantage point, you can look back over the Ponts Couverts and the entire Petite France district, with the spire of the Strasbourg Cathedral rising majestically in the background. It is the perfect spot to reflect on the architectural layers of the city, from medieval timber to 17th-century stone fortifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

The core walking route is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles). If you stop for photos and take in the narration, it typically takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete.