Things to do in Strasbourg
Explore the oldest wine route in France
Strasbourg is the starting point for France's oldest wine route, Vins d'Alsace. Although Riesling remains the region's most revered refreshment, the vineyards stretching 170km (106 miles) south also produce some great reds. If wine is your thing, Ophorus (tel +33 633 051 009; www.ophorus.com) can help you uncork the best in the region.
Follow the Fortress trail on two wheels
Home to the largest cycle network in France, the best way to enjoy Strasbourg is on two wheels. Vélhop (tel +33 969 393 667; www.velhop.strasbourg.eu), the city's rental scheme, makes it easy to get in the saddle whilst routes such as the Fortress Cycle trail are flat, well marked and ideal for sightseeing and a picnic lunch.
Strap on some snowshoes for a winter hike
Usually, winter in France means only one thing: skiing. But Strasbourg's proximity to the Black Forest Mountains offers a less crowded way to enjoy the glistening landscape. Snowshoe walks are gaining in popularity; local ski shops offer maps and shoe rental whilst bright pink signposts guide you on the hike.
Tour the city in a classic 2CV car
One of the chicest ways to see Strasbourg is by chauffeur-driven 2CV (tel +33 663 693 375; www.love2cv.com). Drop the soft-top and take a tour in a classic Citroën car past the cathedral and European Parliament before bouncing through the historic Old Town. Longer trips cross into Germany and include a picnic and a stop for wine.
Try your hand at Tarte Flambée
The essence of Alsace can be found among the tilted half-timber frames of Strasbourg's Old Town, where almost every tavern will have tarteflambée (bacon and onion tart) on their menu. Once you get a taste for it, try making it yourself. Food & City Tours (http://foodandcitytours.com) offer cookery classes in a traditional Winstub (wine lounge).
