Rooftops in Strasbourg: the Alsatian capital seen from above
A city along the Ill
France's eighth-largest city by population, Strasbourg is the prefecture of the Bas-Rhin department and of the Grand Est region. Bordered by the Rhine and sharing a border with Germany, the historic capital of Alsace bears in its very stones a history shaped by both French and Germanic influences. Its heart, the Grande Île, is encircled by the branches of the Ill.
This historic centre has been listed in its entirety as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. It encompasses Notre-Dame Cathedral, its narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses and the Petite France district, with its canals and locks. In 2017, the protected area was extended to part of the Neustadt, the district built by the German authorities from 1880 onwards.
A cathedral towering over the plain
Seen from above, Strasbourg reveals a sea of large, steep roofs dotted with dormer windows, from which the cathedral spire soars. Standing 142 metres tall, it was the tallest building in the world for nearly 230 years, from 1647 to 1874, and it can be seen from far away across the Alsace plain. Further north, not far from the European institutions (Strasbourg is the official seat of the European Parliament), the Wacken business district is lined with contemporary buildings. On clear days, the blue line of the Vosges closes off the horizon to the west.
Where to get a view from above in Strasbourg
A city of viewpoints rather than skyscrapers
An old city whose buildings are of modest height, Strasbourg has very few bars and restaurants set on a roof. The finest panoramas are often earned on foot: from the cathedral platform, at the end of a long climb up the stairs, or on the panoramic terrace that tops the Barrage Vauban, facing the three towers of the Ponts couverts. These viewpoints don't serve drinks, but they offer the most famous views of the city.
The Wacken: L'Archipel on the ninth floor
For a drink or a meal with a view, the go-to address lies north of the centre, in the Wacken business district. On the ninth floor of the AC Hotel by Marriott, L'Archipel brings together a restaurant with large picture windows, a lounge bar and, in the warmer months, an open-air terrace. From there, the eye sweeps over the rooftops to the cathedral spire, with the Vosges on the horizon. The venue is open to everyone, whether or not they are staying at the hotel.
Gastronomy and cocktails up high
Seasonal cuisine facing the panorama
Alsace's reputation for fine food carries on up high. At L'Archipel, chef Garry Baud serves seasonal, homemade French cuisine that doesn't forget the region's produce, while the bar focuses on signature cocktails and a finger-food menu for sharing. An all-you-can-eat brunch is held there about once a month.
Music and nights out
In winter, the bar's weekly after-work events come with DJ sets, and the terrace takes over as soon as the fine weather returns. The restaurant, bar and terrace can also be hired for seminars, corporate drinks receptions or private parties.
A rooftop for every occasion
As a couple, with friends or with colleagues
A dinner for two overlooking the city lights, a sunset aperitif with friends or after-work drinks with colleagues: L'Archipel's terrace and bar lend themselves to all these occasions. Families can enjoy the brunch, which is free for the youngest children.
Getting around easily
Strasbourg is easy to explore on foot, by bike or by tram. L'Archipel is about fifteen minutes by tram from the railway station, and a stroll along the quays takes you to Petite France and the Barrage Vauban to round off your discovery of the city from above.
Tips for making the most of Strasbourg from above
Choosing your season and time
L'Archipel's terrace only opens in the warmer months and depending on the weather, but the bar and restaurant, sheltered behind their picture windows, can be enjoyed all year round. To watch the sun set behind the Vosges, it's best to arrive in the early evening. As for the viewpoints, their opening hours and seasons vary, so it's wise to check them before you go.
Photo : Pierre_Bn / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
