Strasbourg
Strasbourg is at the crossroads of Europe, both historically (sometimes it was part of France, other times Germany) and today. Located on the Rhine River, in the Middle Ages Strasbourg was an independent city that collected taxes from river traffic. Now as headquarters of the EU European Parliament and European Council, Strasbourg is a modern multicultural city. The well-preserved city center is super to explore on foot (pedestrian streets and no heavy traffic), and in Strasbourg, when it comes to sweets and chocolates, kids will want to try everything that comes their way.
Batorama - Start your explorations of Strasbourg with a boat ride. It's fun to take the one hour ride that circles around Petite France medieval quarter, and then goes up the river to the modern buildings of the European Parliament. On the way, you'll pass through two locks and go under twenty-seven bridges, audio commentary in 11 languages, plus a children's version. Batorama departs from the Palais Rohan landing, and runs daily, year round.
Mini-train - From March to November, take the mini-train tram on a 40 min. tour around Strasbourg, including Petit France. The mini-train departs from Place de la Cathedrale.
Fun food
Kids will want to try a Strasbourg specialty tarte flambee - it's thin pizza with mix of creme fraiche, cheese, onions, and bacon. Other specialties include kougelhopf, a cake with raisins and almonds, cooked in a bundt pan and gauffres (waffles).
During December, at the Christmas markets and patisseries, there's an amazing selection of seasonal chocolates, cookies and cakes, hot chocolate (and mulled wine for parents).
