Strasbourg between city and nature

6 March 2022

A must for joggers and walkers, many parks and gardens are easily accessible from downtown. Discover our 4 favorites near the Regent Contades, to visit Strasbourg between city and nature. 

From the “Presqu’île Malraux” to the Esplanade district

If you visit the “Presqu’île Malraux”, you will find a few meters away on the left side the Citadelle, an eleven-hectare park built on the site of the former military fortress designed by Vauban. Through the ancient remains, shady alleys and waterways are scattered playgrounds and outdoor sports facilities accessible to all.

Not far from there, in the heart of the Esplanade district, the city’s Botanical Garden can be found among the university buildings. Created in 1619, the garden has more than 6,000 plant species from all over the world, cultivated in the open air or in greenhouses. Most of them can be admired freely during opening hours.

In the heart of the European district

Are you passing through the European district ? Located next to the Parliament, the Orangerie is the oldest parc of the city and considered as the green center of Strasbourg. Through its flowered alleys, you will discover a lake, a waterfall as well as the Josephine Palace which hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Think about observing the top of the trees while visiting : the park is known to be the refuge of storks, emblematic bird of Alsace. For the happiness of the children, many playgrounds and a small zoo have been set up. 

From France to Germany

Finally, a visit to the Jardin des Deux Rives will allow you to reach Germany by crossing the bridge over the Rhine and to discover the neighboring city of Kehl.  The garden is a true cross-border space and also hosts concerts and events on sunny days.