How long does it take to walk the Neustadt area?

A self-guided walk through the Neustadt typically takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This allows for about 1.5 kilometers of walking and time to admire the grand facades of the Palais du Rhin and Palais Universitaire.

Is the Neustadt area in Strasbourg worth visiting?

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting as it offers a stark contrast to the medieval Grande Île. The wide boulevards and monumental public buildings provide a window into the city's complex history under German rule from 1871 to 1918.

Where does the Strasbourg Neustadt walk start?

The route begins at the Palais Universitaire located at Place de l'Université. It is easily accessible via the 'Université' tram stop on lines C, E, and F.

Can I see the Palais du Rhin inside?

The Palais du Rhin is primarily used for administrative offices and is generally closed to the public. However, the exterior and its surrounding gardens at Place de la République are fully accessible and offer plenty to see.

What is the most famous landmark in the Neustadt?

The Palais du Rhin and the Place de la République are the most iconic landmarks. The square is famous for its circular layout and the 'Monument aux Morts' sculpture.

Is this walking route suitable for seniors?

Yes, this is an easy-to-moderate walk with very flat terrain and wide sidewalks. There are plenty of benches for resting in the gardens of Place de la République.

When is the best time to explore the Neustadt?

The best time is late afternoon on a weekday. The low sun highlights the sandstone carvings on the buildings, and the area is less crowded with students and commuters.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a world where Prussian ambition meets French elegance on this self-guided walk through Strasbourg’s Neustadt. While the city is famous for its medieval timber-framed houses in Petite France, the Neustadt—or 'New City'—tells a different story of power, modernity, and urban-design. Created following the German annexation of Alsace in 1871, this district was designed to transform Strasbourg into a grand imperial capital. This walking route invites you to discover a neighborhood so architecturally significant it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017. As you explore independently, you will witness the transition from the cramped streets of the old town to the wide, airy boulevards of the 19th century. The journey begins at the monumental Palais Universitaire, a symbol of intellectual prestige, before leading you down the majestic Avenue de la Liberté. This route highlights the eclectic mix of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles that define the area. You will encounter the National University Library, with its striking dome, and the Théâtre National de Strasbourg, which once served as the regional parliament. The stroll culminates at the Place de la République, a vast circular plaza centered around a moving war memorial and the imposing Palais du Rhin. This area is perfect for those seeking a walking tour Strasbourg experience that goes beyond the typical tourist paths. By following this route, you gain a deeper understanding of how the city’s dual Franco-German identity is literally etched into its stone. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a history buff, this audio walk provides the context needed to appreciate the grand scale of the Kaiser’s vision for Strasbourg.

Highlights

The grand Neo-Renaissance facade of the Palais Universitaire

Strolling the wide, imperial Avenue de la Liberté

The massive dome and modern interior of the National University Library

The historical significance of the Théâtre National de Strasbourg

The centuries-old Ginkgo Biloba trees in Place de la République

The imposing Palais du Rhin, former palace of the German Emperor

Tour Stops (6)

Palais Universitaire

Start exploring with Zigway at the Palais Universitaire, the crown jewel of the Neustadt’s educational district. Built between 1879 and 1884, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece was designed by architect Otto Warth. It wasn't just a school; it was a statement of German intellectual superiority following the annexation. Look up at the facade to see 36 statues representing prominent thinkers and scientists. The building's symmetry and grand courtyard were intended to mirror the prestige of the Sorbonne in Paris. Today, it remains a vibrant part of the University of Strasbourg, housing the faculty of historical sciences. Take a moment to appreciate the scale of the entrance before heading toward the main boulevard.

Avenue de la Liberté

Begin your self-guided adventure down the Avenue de la Liberté, once known as the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Strasse. This 30-meter-wide boulevard was designed as the 'triumphal way' connecting the University to the Imperial Palace. As you walk, notice the prestigious residential buildings lining the street, showcasing the wealth of the 19th-century bourgeoisie. The urban-design here was revolutionary for the time, featuring separated lanes for carriages, horses, and pedestrians. This street serves as the central axis of the Neustadt expansion, embodying the transition from the dense medieval city center to a modern, airy metropolis. It remains one of the most prestigious addresses in Strasbourg.

National University Library of Strasbourg

Observe the National University Library (BNU), an institution that holds over three million volumes, making it one of the largest libraries in France. The building you see was completed in 1895 in a rigorous Neo-Renaissance style. Its most famous feature is the massive glass dome, which floods the interior with natural light. The library was established to replace the city's previous collection, which was tragically destroyed during the Siege of Strasbourg in 1870. While the exterior remains historic, the interior underwent a major modernization in 2014, featuring a spectacular spiral staircase. It stands as a testament to the city's enduring commitment to culture and knowledge.

TNS - Théâtre national de Strasbourg

This elegant building currently houses the Théâtre National de Strasbourg, but its history is deeply political. It was originally constructed as the Landtag of Alsace-Lorraine, the regional parliament for the territory during the German period. Completed in 1892, its architecture is a blend of Neo-Renaissance and Classical styles. After World War I, when Alsace returned to France, the building was converted into a conservatory and eventually a national theater. It is the only national theater in France located outside of Paris, highlighting Strasbourg's unique cultural status. The building’s facade, with its stately columns, still reflects its original purpose as a seat of legislative power.

Place de la République

Discover at your own pace the circular grandeur of Place de la République. This park-like square acts as the bridge between the old city and the new. In the center, you will find the 'Monument aux Morts,' a moving sculpture of a mother holding her two dying sons—one who died for France and one for Germany—symbolizing the complex history of Alsace. The square is also famous for its ancient Ginkgo Biloba trees, which were gifted by Emperor Meiji of Japan to Kaiser Wilhelm I. Surrounding the square are five major public buildings, creating a unified architectural ensemble that is rare in European urban planning.

Palais du Rhin

The final stop on this walking route is the Palais du Rhin, formerly the Kaiserpalast. Built for Emperor Wilhelm I, this massive Neo-Renaissance palace was intended to house the Kaiser during his visits to Strasbourg. Ironically, the Emperor thought the building was too ornate and preferred staying elsewhere. The palace features a heavy, square silhouette and a central dome that dominates the skyline of the Neustadt. During World War II, it served as a local headquarters for the German administration. Today, it houses the Central Commission for Navigation on the Rhine, the world's oldest international organization. Its survival is a miracle, as it narrowly escaped demolition after the war.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Neustadt expansion route is the best choice for architecture enthusiasts. It showcases a unique blend of 19th-century Prussian styles, including Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau, which earned the district UNESCO World Heritage status.